Porec: Hotels and Accommodation

Poreč presents Roman urban traces, ecclesiastical architectural history, museum collections and various activities on the water within a compact historic area. This character is complemented by cycle paths leading from the coast into the rural hinterland.

Culture and History

The historic centre of Poreč extends across a peninsula measuring approximately 400 by 200 metres. A large part of the ancient insula street grid has been preserved there, including the Decumanus and Cardo Maximus axes. Marafor is Poreč's oldest and largest square and retains the form of a square Roman forum. In the southeastern part of the peninsula stands the Okrugla kula, a preserved section of Poreč's former fortification walls. The surviving wall and foundation remains of Poreč's Great Temple of Neptune date from the 1st century. Kuća Dva Sveca is a Romanesque house from the 14th or 15th century, identified by two stone relief figures of saints.

The episcopal complex of the Euphrasian Basilica is located in the centre. The complex was commissioned by Bishop Euphrasius in the middle of the 6th century and combines early Christian and Byzantine elements. The complex includes the basilica, baptistery, atrium, archaeological remains and a museum in the former bishop's palace. It preserves mosaics from several phases, including particularly striking mosaics in the basilica's main apse. The complex is open to visitors daily except Sundays and obligatory religious holidays. The bell tower can be climbed and offers views over Poreč and its surroundings.

The Zavičajni muzej Poreštine was founded in 1884 and is described as Istria's oldest museum institution. It collects, preserves, researches and presents to the public the civilisational and cultural heritage of the area around Poreč. In its courtyard lapidarium, it displays heraldic objects, fragments of sacred and secular buildings, and stone monuments. When the permanent exhibition is unavailable, the museum organises temporary exhibitions on various topics and collections for the public. The “La mula de Parenzo” visitor centre uses photographs, infographics, old objects, demijohns and interactive multimedia aids for its educational work.

Water and Activity

At the Pical snorkelling site, access begins at a paved sunbathing area with steps leading into the sea. Because of active maritime traffic, snorkellers are advised to stay within the protective barrier marked by buoys. The underwater rock formation at Pical resembles the Roman layout of Poreč's old town and contains remains from antiquity.

Guided kayak tours in Poreč combine paddling with physical activity and an introduction to the city's history. Poreč kayak excursions can be undertaken without prior experience and are presented as outings for families. The swimming season in Poreč is described as lasting from April to October. At Ski Lift Poreč, water skiing is offered on a 650-metre-long cable system; the water-skiing season there is described as lasting from Easter until the beginning of November.

Landscape

Poreč's cycle paths run along the coast and through the rural hinterland. Their routes pass through Mediterranean forests and by castle ruins, prehistoric hill forts, churches and rustic villas.

Anyone wishing to book a hotel in Porec can continue their accommodation search afterwards. Further destination pages are also available for Zbandaj, Mihelići, Jasenovica, Červar-Porat, Ruzici, Bonaci and Vržnaveri.

To the higher-level travel overview: Općina Poreč.

More about the destination

Relevant information for planning your trip:

Porec in Istria: old town, basilica, beaches and excursions.