Explore colourful streets, breathtaking coastal scenery, and hidden gems of the Istrian Peninsula with the freedom of a rental car.Â
Welcome to RovinjÂ
Nestled on Croatia's stunning Istrian coastline, Rovinj is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in the country. With its pastel-coloured buildings, cobbled streets, charming harbour, and crystal-clear Adriatic waters, Rovinj feels more like a small Italian seaside town than a typical Croatian destination.
While Rovinj itself is easily explored on foot, renting a car allows you to uncover the best of Istria, from hilltop villages and vineyards to hidden beaches and historic towns.
Why visit Rovinj?
- One of Croatia's most picturesque coastal towns
- Beautiful Old Town filled with narrow stone streets
- Incredible seafood restaurants
- Stunning sunset views
- Gateway to the Istrian Peninsula
- Easy access to beaches, vineyards, and national parks
- Perfect base for an unforgettable road trip
Rent a car for your Rovinj adventure
The true beauty of Rovinj lies beyond the town itself. Having a rental car allows you to discover the hidden treasures of Istria at your own pace.
Comparing suppliers before you travel can help you secure the best price and vehicle for your adventure.
Find the best rental car deals in Croatia here:
Top things to do in RovinjÂ
- Explore Rovinj Old TownÂ
The heart of Rovinj is its beautiful Old Town, a maze of cobbled streets winding up towards the iconic Church of St. Euphemia.
Highlights include:
Standing proudly above the town, the Church of St. Euphemia is Rovinj's most recognisable landmark.
Climb the bell tower for panoramic views across:
- Rovinj Harbour
- The Adriatic Sea
- Nearby islands
- The Istrian coastline
- Walk along Rovinj HarbourÂ
The waterfront is one of the most beautiful areas in Croatia.
Spend an afternoon:
- Watching fishing boats return
- Enjoying local seafood
- Photographing colourful buildings
- Relaxing with a coffee overlooking the sea
- Enjoy Rovinj's beachesÂ
Some of the best beaches include:
Mulini beachÂ
- A stylish pebble beach close to town with excellent facilities.Â
Lone Bay
-Â A peaceful bay surrounded by forest and clear waters.
Cuvi beachÂ
- Popular with families thanks to its shallow waters and relaxed atmosphere.
Best day trips from Rovinj by car
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a car is the ability to explore the wider Istria region.
- PulaÂ
Drive Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Famous for its remarkably preserved Roman Amphitheatre, Pula is one of Croatia's most historic cities.
Highlights include:Â
- Roman Arena
- Temple of Augustus
- Ancient city centre
- Seafront promenades
- MotovunÂ
Drive Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Perched on a hilltop above vineyards and forests, Motovun is one of Istria's most charming medieval villages.Â
Known for:
- Truffle hunting
- Spectacular views
- Historic stone streets
- Local wines
- Grožnjan
Drive Time: Approximately 50 minutesÂ
Often called the "Town of Artists," Grožnjan is filled with:
- Art studios
- Galleries
- Music festivals
- Beautiful viewpoints
- Lim FjordÂ
Drive Time: Approximately 20 minutesÂ
A stunning natural inlet surrounded by dramatic cliffs and forests.
Perfect for:
- Scenic drives
- Seafood restaurants
- Boat trips
- Photography
Best scenic drives around RovinjÂ
- Rovinj to Porec Coastal RouteÂ
This scenic drive follows the coastline past beaches, marinas, and charming villages.
- Rovinj to Motovun Wine Route
One of the best drives in Croatia, passing:
- Vineyards
- Olive groves
- Medieval villages
- Truffle-producing forests
- Rovinj to Cape Kamenjak
A longer drive south through the Istrian Peninsula ending at one of Croatia's most spectacular coastal nature reserves.
Food and Wine experiencesÂ
Istria is often considered Croatia's culinary capital.
Don't miss:
- Fresh seafood
- Istrian truffles
- Local olive oils
- Handmade pasta
- Regional wines such as Malvazija and Teran
Having a rental car makes it easy to visit family-run wineries and countryside restaurants that many visitors never discover.
Driving in Istria: What you need to knowÂ
Driving around Rovinj and the Istrian Peninsula is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore Croatia.
Driving tipsÂ
- Roads are generally excellent
- Parking is available around Rovinj town centre
- Expect narrow streets within historic towns
- Fuel stations are widely available
- Summer traffic can be busy around coastal resorts
Where to stay in RovinjÂ
Old TownÂ
Perfect for:
- First-time visitors
- Historic charm
- Walking access to attractions
Lone Bay Area
Perfect for:
- Beach lovers
- Couples
- Luxury stays
Countryside VillasÂ
Perfect for:
- Road trippers
- Families
- Exploring the wider Istria region
Best time to visit Rovinj
Spring (April - May)Â
- Pleasant temperatures
- Fewer crowds
- Excellent road trip conditions
Summer (June - August)Â
- Beach season
- Lively atmosphere
- Longer daylight hour
Autumn (September - October)
- Warm weather
- Harvest season
- Ideal for food and wine experiences
Final ThoughtsÂ
Rovinj is one of Croatia's true gems. With its stunning Old Town, beautiful coastline, exceptional food, and easy access to the best of Istria, it's the perfect destination for travellers who want to combine relaxation with adventure.
A rental car transforms your visit from a simple beach holiday into an unforgettable road trip, allowing you to discover medieval villages, hidden coves, world-class wineries, and some of Croatia's most spectacular scenery.
Find the best rental car deals for CroatiaÂ
Ready to explore Rovinj and the Istrian Peninsula?
Book early during peak season to secure the best prices and widest choice of vehicles.