Hafen
Pula

Explore the rich history and splendid flavours of the Istrian hinterland during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Scenic Drive, Porec

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Porec, a cultural and historical jewel by international standards. Today's town plan dates from the Roman times, about 50 B.C. Following the common Roman town model, Porec has two main intersecting streets, Cardo and Decumanus, which remain the backbone of the Old Town to this day.

Euphrasian Basilica, Marafor, House of Two Saints, Istrian Parliament, Leoni and Zuccato Palaces

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the Old Town. Along the way, see the Episcopal complex of the Euphrasian Basilica. Built in the 6th century, it is the most valuable monument in Porec, as well as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additional highlights include the Marafor, the oldest part of town with the remains of two Roman temples, House of Two Saints, Istrian Parliament Building, and the Leoni and Zuccato Palaces. Following your tour, some free time is made available to explore Porec at your leisure.

Sveti Lovrec Village, Matosevic Winery, Wine Tasting with Local Specialities

Next, re-board your coach and head to the Istrian hinterland en route to the village of Sveti Lovrec, where a visit is made to the Matosevic Winery, one of the most renowned Croatian wine producers. Upon arrival, proceed to the wine cellar for a tasting of some of their finest red and white wines accompanied by homemade cheese and Istrian prosciutto. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 820 yards (about 750 metres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 30 steps at the sites visited. Walking in Porec is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Euphrasian Basilica; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary.

Explore the ancient beauty and historical landmarks of one of the oldest towns in Europe during this memorable walking tour of Pula.

According to myth, Jason and Medea founded Pula, formerly known as 'Polai', on the southernmost part of the Istrian Peninsula. Later, the Romans changed it into a resort town for the 'pleasure of the rich.'

Pula Walking Tour

After a short tender ride, meet your guide and start a walking tour of Pula which offers a unique insight into the 3,000-year-old history of one of the oldest towns in Europe. The city is best known for its many surviving ancient Roman buildings, the most famous of which is its 1st-century amphitheater. Locally-known as the 'Arena', it is the sixth-largest amphitheater in the world. This ancient structure's appearance belies its age and it is still used today for summer film festivals.

Your walking tour continues with visits to other notable and well-preserved ancient Roman structures, including the Sergius Arch and the temple to the god Apollo, built in honour of the 1st-century Roman emperor Caesar Augustus. Along the way, see the Roman city gates and walls and a Byzantine chapel.

City Marketplace

Next, proceed to the colourful and famous City Market. This recently-renovated marketplace reflects the Austro-Hungarian heritage of the residents and attracts people from the nearby villages. After your guided walking tour, you may remain in town and browse the shops at your leisure.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. The tour sequence may vary. Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a camera from the ship.

Explore Pula at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Pula at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Discover the Old World beauty, landmarks and architecture of Rovinj during this picturesque and informative walking tour.

Scenic Drive to Rovinj

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate 45-minute drive to Rovinj. Believed by some to have been founded as far back as the early-3rd century A.D., Rovinj developed into a strong fishing, shipbuilding and maritime centre, especially during the 17th-18th centuries. At that time, the town's walls were secured and the town began expanding to the mainland. In 1763, the channel between the mainland and the island was filled in and Rovinj became a peninsula.

Rovinj Walking Tour, Batana Museum & Free Time

War and foreign occupiers plagued Rovinj for much of the 19th and 20th centuries. Over the past 40 years, however, Rovinj has developed into a thriving tourist centre due to its picturesque natural surroundings, pleasant Mediterranean climate, historical setting and cultural values. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of Rovinj and visit the Batana Museum. 'The Batana House' tells the story about batana, the wooden fishing flat bottom vessel and the favorite traditional vessel of the inhabitants of Rovinj. Batana has been constructed for decades by local naval carpenters and caulkers, daily used by local fishermen and owned by numerous Rovinj's families. Batana has become the main symbol of the town, so that the Town dedicated a Museum to it! It is not an ordinary museum, but the first museum in the Mediterranean dedicated to a fishing vessel.

Scenic Drive, Vodnjan Village & Olive Oil Tasting

Continue your tour with a scenic drive to Vodnjan and your destination, the Chiavalon Family Estate.  The Family Farm of Chiavalon specializes in growing olives and producing top quality extra virgin olive oils. Their olive oil is listed among the worlds' top 15 olive oils, and they have been declared one of the most promising farms in the world as chosen by the world famous guide, l'Eextravergine, edited by expert taster Marco Oreggia. Upon arrival, enjoy the beauty of the farm as you stroll through the olive groves and get acquainted with olive oil production, presentation and tasting at the Olive Mill.   

Afterward, re-join the coach for the approximate 15-minute return drive to the pier.