Things to do in Istria with children

With its ancient towns, hive of historical landmarks and stunning architecture, Istria is usually associated with history and architecture enthusiasts and is not usually associated with children.

Although if you do happen to be travelling to Istria with the kids in tow this summer, there are more children-orientated activities happening in the region than first perceived, the trick is knowing about them.

To help make your holiday in Istria as fun for the kids as it will be for you, we’ve tracked down several things to do in in Istria with children.

The Butterfly Garden in the Ecological Centre of Eia

Generally speaking children are fascinated by butterflies and their unique beauty. Surrounded by the magic fairy wood, which includes an ancient oak tree named Nano, the Butterfly Garden at the Ecological Centre of Eia, never fails to mesmerise and fascinate children, and adults too for that matter. The garden comprises of one huge flower bed laden with many exotic flowers and plants designed for attracting butterflies to their nectar. There are more than 50 species of butterflies living in this extraordinary garden including a very rare species known as the Swallowtail.

The Ecological Centre of Eia is located in an area of untouched beauty and nature between the towns of Bale and Krmede. The centre itself is an enjoyable and educational experience for all the family with numerous interesting ecological projects running, including an earthen kitchen, Indian sauna and house made of straw.

For more information visit eia.hr.

Squirrel Park

Istria is renowned for its thriving nature and wildlife scene and none more so than being a haven for the humble squirrel. Watching the cute red squirrels at the Istria Squirrel Park proves to be a great day out for all the family. Istria Squirrel Park is located at the Hotel Sol Coral in Katoro. For more information email: sol.coral@istraturist.hr

Aquarium Pula

Between the walls of the Austro-Hungarian fortress of Verudela, which was built in 1886 just several kilometres from the centre of the city of Pula, the Aquarium Pula can be found. Since 2002, Verudela’s fortress has been transformed into an aquarium boasting approximately 60 tanks of tropical marine and freshwater fish which are representative of European rivers and lakes.

The view from the roof of this ancient fort is simply stunning of the city of Pula below where visitors can enjoy food and drinks in the rooftop restaurant – definitely a winner for all the family!