2-Day Rovinj Retreat: Local Experiences with Cuisine and Shopping for Couples
Rovinj, Croatia
2 days
About Rovinj, Croatia
Discover the enchanting charm of Rovinj, Croatia, a picturesque coastal town on the Istrian Peninsula. Known for its pastel-colored houses and narrow, cobblestone streets, Rovinj offers a blend of authentic culture and stunning natural beauty. Visit the iconic St. Euphemia's Basilica, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. Explore the Rovinj Town Museum and the Batana House Eco Museum to delve into the town's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Golden Cape Forest Park, a haven for nature lovers. Indulge in local Istrian cuisine, famous for its truffles and seafood. Don't miss the sunset from the harbor, it's a sight to behold. Rovinj is not just a destination, it's an experience.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
A Day of Shopping, Sightseeing, and Wine Tasting in Rovinj
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Rovinj Market. Here, you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade goods. It's a great place to sample local flavors and pick up some souvenirs.
Lunch
For lunch, enjoy a picnic at the Park Forest Zlatni Rt. This beautiful park offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and is the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring the Balbi Arch and Grisia Street. These iconic landmarks are filled with history and offer plenty of photo opportunities. Afterwards, head to a local winery for a wine tasting session.
Dinner
Enjoy your final dinner in Rovinj at a local restaurant. Try dishes like seafood risotto or lamb under the bell, and pair your meal with a glass of local red wine.
Evening
End your trip with a romantic walk along the Rovinj Marina. The area is beautifully lit at night and offers stunning views of the town and sea. It's the perfect way to end your two-day trip.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Old Town
The historic heart of Rovinj, filled with charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and numerous shops and restaurants.
2Rovinj Heritage Museum
A museum dedicated to the city's maritime history and local art.
3Church of St. Euphemia
A stunning Baroque church that dominates the Rovinj skyline. It's also home to the relic of Saint Euphemia.
4Rovinj Waterfront
A picturesque waterfront with a view of the old town, lined with restaurants and bars.
5Rovinj Market
A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.
6Park Forest Zlatni Rt
A large park ideal for hiking, cycling, and picnicking, with beautiful views of the sea and islands.
7Balbi Arch
A historic arch that marks the entrance to the old town of Rovinj. It's a symbol of the city's rich history.
8Grisia Street
A picturesque street lined with art galleries, boutiques, and souvenir shops.
9Rovinj Marina
A modern marina offering a range of water sports activities and boat rentals.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Istarski Fuzi
A traditional Istrian pasta often served with truffles, a local delicacy in Rovinj.
Manestra
A hearty bean soup that is a staple in Rovinj's local cuisine.
Prsut
Croatian dry-cured ham similar to Italian prosciutto, a must-try in Rovinj.
Truffles
Rovinj is known for its truffles, often used in pasta, risotto, and other dishes.
Scampi na buzaru
A popular seafood dish in Rovinj made with scampi and a sauce of garlic, breadcrumbs, and white wine.
Malvazija
A local white wine from the Istrian region, perfect for pairing with seafood.
Teran
A red wine from the Istrian region, known for its rich flavor and deep color.
Boškarin
A dish made from a local Istrian cattle breed, often served as a steak or in a stew.
Peka
A traditional Croatian dish where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked under a bell-like dome.
Grappa
A popular local brandy often served as a digestif after meals.
Olive Oil
Rovinj is known for its high-quality olive oil, often used in local dishes or served with bread.
Kroštule
A traditional Istrian dessert, these sweet fried dough ribbons are a popular treat in Rovinj.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Rovinj, Croatia is typically between April and September. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's charming old town, relaxing on the beaches, or taking a boat trip to the nearby islands. The peak tourist season is in July and August, so if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, consider visiting in the shoulder months of April, May, June, or September. These months also often offer more affordable accommodation rates and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 30 | Thu | Statehood Day |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi |
June 22 | Sat | Day of Antifascist Struggle |
August 5 | Mon | Victory Day |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 18 | Mon | Remembrance Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | St Stephen's Day |
How to get around
Walk
Rovinj is a small town and most of the attractions are within walking distance. It's a great way to explore the town's narrow, winding streets and discover hidden gems.
Bicycle
Rovinj is a bike-friendly town with numerous bike rental shops. The town and its surrounding areas have many bike paths, making it a great way to explore the region.
Car
While the old town is pedestrian-only, a car can be useful for exploring the wider region. There are several car rental agencies in Rovinj.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Rovinj. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from taxi ranks in the town center.
Ridesharing
Uber is available in Rovinj. It's a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.
Bus
Rovinj has a local bus service that connects the town with nearby villages and cities. The main bus station is located near the town center.
Boat
Boats and ferries are a popular way to explore the Adriatic coast. There are regular services to nearby islands and coastal towns.
Motor Scooter
Renting a motor scooter is a fun and convenient way to get around Rovinj and the surrounding areas. There are several rental shops in the town.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Rovinj, Croatia as a first time visitor
1
Rovinj is a bilingual city, with both Croatian and Italian being widely spoken. English is also commonly understood in tourist areas.
2
The local currency is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
3
Rovinj has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers (average 75°F/24°C) and mild winters (average 45°F/7°C).
4
Tipping is customary in Croatia. A tip of 10-15% is appreciated in restaurants and for taxi drivers.
5
Public transportation is reliable and affordable. The city is also very walkable, with many attractions within walking distance.
6
Rovinj is known for its seafood. Be sure to try local specialties like scampi, mussels, and fish stew.
7
Tap water is safe to drink in Rovinj.
8
Croatia is part of the European Union but not the Schengen Area. This means you may need a visa depending on your nationality.
9
Rovinj is a safe city, but like any tourist destination, it's wise to take precautions against pickpocketing and other petty crimes.
10
The city is located in the Istria region, known for its truffles. Don't miss the chance to try dishes featuring this delicacy.
11
Rovinj has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs open until the early hours.
12
The city is also known for its art scene. Many local artists have studios and galleries that you can visit.
13
Rovinj is a popular destination for sailing and other water sports. You can rent equipment or take lessons if you're interested.
14
The city has a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Rovinj Jazz Festival and the Night of St. Lawrence, a traditional summer festival.
15
Rovinj is home to a large Italian community, and you'll find many Italian influences in the local cuisine and culture.
16
The city is located on the Adriatic Sea, and the beaches are a major draw. Be aware that many are rocky rather than sandy.
17
Rovinj is a great base for exploring the rest of Istria, with many day trips available to other towns and attractions in the region.
18
The city has a number of markets where you can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and other goods. The daily market in the main square is particularly popular.
19
Rovinj is a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, with many venues offering packages for these events.
20
The city has a relaxed pace of life. Don't rush your visit – take the time to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the local way of life.
Basic Croatian to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Bok | bohk | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Doviđenja | doh-vee-jen-ya | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Molim | moh-leem | Making a request |
Thank you | Hvala | hva-la | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Da | dah | Answering affirmatively |
No | Ne | neh | Answering negatively |
Excuse me | Oprostite | oh-pro-stee-teh | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Ne razumijem | neh rah-zoo-mee-yem | When you don't understand something |
Do you speak English? | Govorite li engleski? | goh-voh-ree-teh lee eng-les-kee | Asking if someone speaks English |
Where is...? | Gdje je...? | gdye yeh | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Kupaonica | koo-pah-oh-nee-tsa | Looking for a bathroom |
Help | Pomoć | poh-mohch | In case of emergency |
Food | Hrana | hra-na | When looking for food |
Water | Voda | vo-da | When asking for water |
Beer | Pivo | pee-vo | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Vino | vee-no | Ordering wine |
Check, please | Račun, molim | rah-choon, moh-leem | Asking for the bill |
How much does it cost? | Koliko to košta? | ko-lee-ko toh kosh-tah | Asking for the price |
I'm sorry | Žao mi je | zhao mee yeh | Apologizing |
Good night | Laku noć | lah-koo notch | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Shorts
Lightweight pants
Swimwear
Sleepwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Light jacket or sweater
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Floss
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor
Shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Basic first-aid kit
Prescription medications
Contact lenses and solution
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Portable power bank
Camera
Charger for camera
Memory card for camera
Travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-books
Travel guide for Rovinj
Notebook and pen
Umbrella
Reusable shopping bag
Weather Conditions
Rovinj, Croatia, is a beautiful coastal town known for its Mediterranean climate. This means it experiences warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you're planning to visit during the summer months, from June to August, expect temperatures to range from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). This is the perfect time for beach activities and water sports, so don't forget your sunscreen, hats, and light clothing to protect yourself from the sun. The shoulder seasons, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), are also great times to visit. Temperatures during these periods typically range from 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C). These seasons are less crowded and the weather is still pleasant enough for outdoor activities. A light jacket or sweater would be useful for the cooler evenings. Winter, from December to February, is the wettest season in Rovinj. Temperatures can drop to around 40°F (4°C), but rarely fall below freezing. If you're visiting during this time, pack warm clothing and waterproof gear. Regardless of when you visit, keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Enjoy your visit to Rovinj!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 11° / 1° | January is the coldest month in Rovinj, with temperatures often dropping to 1°C. It's not the best time for outdoor activities, but you can enjoy indoor attractions. |
February | 13° / 1° | February is still quite chilly, but temperatures start to rise slightly. It's a good time to explore the city's museums and galleries. |
March | 16° / 4° | March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 16°C. The weather is unpredictable, so pack layers. |
April | 19° / 7° | April is a pleasant month with temperatures rising up to 19°C. It's a great time to start enjoying outdoor activities. |
May | 23° / 11° | May is a beautiful month to visit Rovinj, with temperatures reaching up to 23°C. The city starts to get busier with tourists. |
June | 28° / 14° | June marks the beginning of summer, with high temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a perfect time for beach activities. |
July | 31° / 17° | July is the hottest month in Rovinj, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's the peak tourist season, so expect crowds. |
August | 31° / 17° | August is equally hot as July, with high temperatures and lots of sunshine. It's a great time for water sports and beach activities. |
September | 25° / 13° | September is a lovely month with warm temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a great time to explore the city and its surroundings. |
October | 19° / 9° | October sees the beginning of autumn, with temperatures dropping. However, it's still warm enough for outdoor activities. |
November | 15° / 5° | November is a quiet month in Rovinj, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a good time to enjoy the city at a slower pace. |
December | 12° / 2° | December is a festive month in Rovinj, despite the cold temperatures. The city is beautifully decorated for Christmas. |
Did you know?
Places near by Rovinj, Croatia
Pula Arena
One of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world
Brijuni National Park
A group of 14 small islands known for their scenic beauty
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Famous for its lakes, waterfalls, and rich wildlife
Postojna Cave
A 24,340 m long karst cave system
Ljubljana
The capital of Slovenia, known for its university population and green spaces
Venice
Famous for its canals, gondolas, and beautiful architecture
Trieste
A city known for its Habsburg-era architecture
Zagreb
The capital of Croatia, known for its 18th and 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture
