Five great family attractions in Istria

Istria is Croatia’s largest peninsula and for many it is considered the most beautiful. Within its stunning coastal borders lies an inland marked by emerald hills, verdant valleys, ribbons of vineyards, and pretty traditional hilltop villages that have long attracted colonies of artists.

Istria might be sold to many a nature-loving, culture-seeking adult, but is there anything to do in Croatia’s ‘hidden gem’ for children?

In a word, yes. If you are considering visiting this beautiful region of Croatia with the kids in tow, take a look at the following five great things to do in Istria with children.

Istralandia Aquapark

Spread out across more than 4,000 square meters and containing numerous exhilarating slides and attractions, Istralandia Aquapark is a firm favourite for families seeking a fun day out in the sun.

The aqua park is situated between the towns of Novigrad and Brtonigla, and is fairly easy to access no matter where you are staying in Istria.

The multitude of slides, pools and other attractions at the Istralandia Aquapark makes it suitable for all ages.

Travel in a Yellow Submarine in Rabac Bay

There’s something about a yellow submarine that children can’t resist and some adults too!

With its great pebbly beach, quality restaurants and fabulous Mediterranean climate, the town of Rabac on the eastern coast of the Istrian peninsula is a great place to visit.

However, if you’re travelling to Rabac with children you may want to entice them by mentioning the Yellow Submarine!

Step on board this brightly-coloured vessel and discover the beauty of the underwater world of Rabac Bay. As well as day trips, night trips are also available in this unforgettable yellow submarine.

Park Histria Aromatica

Both children and adults can be fascinated by plant life, especially when it’s as vibrant, colourful, diverse and fragrant as it is in the Histria Aromatica.

This wonderful plant park is located on a hillside not far from the village of Golas, close to Bale.

With fields swathed in ribbons of mint, lavender, sage, chamomile, and marigold, your smelling senses really are in for a treat in the Park Histria Aromatica.

Medieval Theme Park

For families seeking an educational but entertaining day out in Istria, look no further than the Medieval Theme Park.

Situated in the small medieval town of Svetvincenat, which boasts an incredible castle, there could not be more of an apt setting for this fabulous Medieval Theme Park.

Visitors are propelled back to the medieval era, witnessing cavaliers and knights fight over a beautiful damsel. Visitors can even step into medieval costume themselves and act out the role of a knight or a damsel.

Pula Observatory

For older children that are interested in astronomy, a trip to the Pula Observatory is one not to be missed.

Located in the beautiful Monte Zaro Park in Pula, this incredible observatory offers fantastic views of the night sky, overlooking the town of Pula and its bay.

Founded in 1869, the Pula Observatory is the oldest observatory in Croatia and was formed as part of the Imperial and Royal Hydrographic Institute of the Navy.