Why Poreč is Croatia’s most underrated Adriatic escape

Long before cafes spilled onto limestone lanes and yachts filled the marina, Poreč was laid out as a Roman castrum (fortified military camp). More than 2,000 years later, that same street plan still shapes the old seaside town, where the Decumanus and Cardo Maximus lead past gothic palaces, Venetian facades and hidden courtyards towards one of Croatia's greatest cultural treasures: the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica.

Standing at the heart of the town, this masterpiece of sixth-century Byzantine architecture is renowned for its glittering gold mosaics, which have survived almost intact for nearly 1,500 years. Together with its baptistery, atrium and episcopal palace, the Euphrasian Basilica forms one of the world's best-preserved early Christian complexes, offering a remarkable window into the transition from the Roman to the Byzantine world.

The rest of the old town is compact enough to discover on foot. In Marafor Square, once the Roman forum, preserved fragments of an ancient temple can be found; nearby partial columns and pediment fragments of the Temple of Neptune are also free to view, while a waterfront promenade encircles the old town and provides stunning vistas across the Adriatic towards the pine-covered island of Sveti Nikola.

Food is equally central to the experience of visiting Poreč and the surrounding area. Istria has earned a reputation as one of Croatia's leading gastronomic regions, drawing on Italian influences while celebrating local ingredients. Menus showcase hand-rolled fuži pasta, white truffles from the Mirna Valley, wild asparagus, Adriatic seafood and some of Europe's finest extra virgin olive oils. Local malvazija wines pair naturally with fresh fish, while robust teran reds complement slow-cooked meats and earthy truffle dishes.

For a contemporary interpretation of regional flavours, lunch at Jaz by Ana Roš offers a relaxed introduction to the cooking of one of Europe's most celebrated chefs. The menu, which is designed to be easily shared, features a blend of classic and local flavours — standouts include catch-of-the-day sashimi with sweet summer plums and sea bass with creamy polenta.

Elsewhere, restaurants such as Spinnaker focus on seasonal tasting menus that put Istrian produce firmly centre stage, proving that the peninsula's culinary reputation extends well beyond its vineyards. The six-course tasting menu shines a light on local cooking techniques and ingredients, such as using invasive blue crabs in the whipped butter, and mackerel served in a traditional ‘savur’ style — a local take on the Venetian escabeche.

Yet, despite this extraordinary heritage, Poreč remains refreshingly understated. While much of attention falls on Dalmatia, this corner of Istria rewards slower exploration beyond the old town, too. Beaches of smooth rock, pebbles and shaded coves stretch north and south of the town, while cycling routes weave through fragrant pine forests towards quiet fishing villages. Kayaking, paddleboarding and boat trips offer a different perspective of the coastline as well.

For those looking to make the most of the Croatian sunshine, spend a few hours at Purobeach Poreč, where Mediterranean-inspired dining and sea views create a serene atmosphere. It's an easy place to press pause on the rest of the world, whether it’s by reading a book poolside or enjoying an open-air treatment at the site’s Garden Spa by Espa.

Poreč also makes an excellent base for exploring inland Istria. Less than an hour away, the medieval hilltop towns of Motovun and Grožnjan rise above vineyards and forests famous for their truffles. Family-run wineries welcome visitors for tastings, olive oil producers open their groves during harvest season and winding country roads reveal a slower side of Croatia that many travellers never experience.

As evening falls, locals gather along the old-town promenade before drifting into wine bars and seafood restaurants tucked inside centuries-old stone buildings. From the harbour, the setting sun casts a warm glow across the basilica's bell tower, reminding visitors that Poreč's greatest appeal is its longevity. Civilisations have passed through these streets for two millennia, leaving behind layers of architecture, culture and cuisine that continue to shape daily life.

For travellers seeking lesser-known corners, Poreč offers something increasingly rare on the Adriatic: a destination where world-class heritage feels woven into everyday life, exceptional food remains rooted in local traditions and the best discoveries are often found simply by slowing down.