Situated near the base of the Istrian peninsula, the population of Pula is just over 62,000, making it the largest city in Istria. One of the most famous sights in the whole of Croatia is the Roman amphitheatre in Pula, which has been well preserved.

Built during the 1st century AD, the three-storey amphitheatre is the sixth largest in the world. It hosts the Pula Opera Festival in the summer and is also used for other events during the year. Othersights include the Triumphal arch of Sergii, the Temple of Augustus, the Cathedral and the Franciscan Church and Monastery.

Idyllically situated in a horse-shoe shaped bay Umag and its Riviera (which is about 20km long), is very popular. The old town in Umag has attractive and narrow, cobbled streets. The coast is full of pretty little bays and there are some 60,000 hotel beds and those in private accommodation here.

There are also many camping and caravan sites along the coast, which are well run and highly recommended for an inexpensive holiday. Umag is also well known for its marina and the international tennis centre which hosts the Croatian Open every July.

Located on the western bank of the Istrian Peninsula, Porec is the most popular holiday resort in Istria and has frequently been nominated as the top resort in Croatia by the Croatian National Tourist Office. A visit to the old town (Porec is 2,000 years old) is a must, due to its numerous historical sites, particularly the 6th century Euphrasian Basilica which is wonderfully preserved and is well known for its beautiful gold mosaics.

The main tourist areas are two bays south of the town, called Zelena (Green) and Plava (Blue) Laguna (Lagoon). They are almost like small towns, with several hotels in each, as well as camping, marina, shopping and entertainment areas.

This is a charmingly picturesque town with yet more narrow, cobbled streets. It is famous for its St. Euphemia Cathedral with the highest church tower in Istria, at 60 metres high. Rovinj was originally an island, but 250 years ago the narrow channel, which separated it from the mainland, was filled in.

It is one of the favourite destinations on the Croatian Adriatic, particularly as it is very lively with numerous cafes and restaurants, galleries and an active fishing port, so in the morning tou can watch the fishermen come in as you have your breakfast.

The ancient town of Emonia, Neopolis, Novigrad lies on the western coast of Istria 2 kilometres north from mouth of river Mirna. The town has developed on an island which was connected to the land in the 18th century.

Novigrad has preserved its medieval streets and the old town walls and towers. In the old town there are a few gothic houses, the Municipal Loggia and residential palaces.