What to visit in Istria with children?

What to do in Istria during your annual vacation? Imagine you’ve found the perfect place where the sea and nature call you to adventure – from the time of the dinosaurs, through the Roman Empire, to today. This place is Istria, a true gem of the Adriatic, the perfect backdrop for family adventures that will remain etched in your heart. Below, we will present some of the unmissable attractions that are perfect for families and ideal for exploring with your little ones.

Aquapark Istralandia

Aquapark Istralandia is the perfect escape from the summer heat. This park, which has already won many awards, is a true playground for the entire family. Istralandia offers fun at every turn and provides a corner for everyone, whether you want to enjoy the sun or hide in the shade. It consists of 23 attractions, offering excitement for every age. From fast slides, hydro-massage pools to calm pools for the youngest. You can also enjoy one of the largest wave pools, which stretches over 2500 m2, or the Family Pool for the whole family.

Dinopark Funtana

Dinopark Funtana awakens the imagination of every little explorer and dinosaur enthusiast. 80 faithfully made replicas of ancient giants that ruled our planet for millions of years. What makes this adventure even more special is the possibility to “bring to life” some of these prehistoric inhabitants with the simple press of a button. This authentic and surprising experience makes Dinopark Funtana a place where the whole family can enjoy exploring the distant world from the time of dinosaurs.

Istrian Olive Oil Museum

The Istrian Olive Oil Museum takes you on a journey through time and reveals how the tradition of olive oil production in Istria has been nurtured for centuries. Here you will not only learn about history. Through guided educational tastings, you can learn how to recognize real extra virgin olive oil, the benefits of olive oil for our health, and the advantages of daily consumption of olive oil for the whole family.

In the offer, you will find three types of tours: Green, Gold, or Platinum, and you can follow the museum exhibition on your own with an audio guide or with a guide for a museum visit. Each tour offers a Family ticket with benefits for the entire family, while children up to 8 years of age enter for free. The museum also has a children’s corner, where kids can learn about the world of olive growing through various drawings.

If you are traveling with your pet, you are welcome in the museum and for tastings. Do not miss the House of Istrian Olive Oil in Pula, where the whole family has the opportunity to learn something new and enjoy the finest extra virgin olive oils from Istria.

Day trip to Brijuni National Park

Traveling through Brijuni Park is like discovering a hidden world where nature and history merge. When you arrive at Veliki Brijun, you will be greeted by a tourist train with a professional guide who will take you through the rich history and natural beauty of the island. The tour includes the most significant points of the National Park and a visit to the animals in the safari park. Those who want to discover Brijuni on their own can rent bicycles for the whole family, including adaptations for children. For the smallest adventurers, there is also the option of renting an electric car, perfect for safely exploring the island where every family can find an unforgettable experience and adventure.

On Brijuni, there is also one of the oldest olive trees in the entire Mediterranean. It is fascinating that this ancient olive tree still bears fruits from which olive oil is obtained. If you are interested in traveling through the world of olives and want to learn more about olive growing, visit the House of Istrian Olive Oil in Pula. There, you will have the opportunity to taste some of the finest Istrian olive oils through guided tastings that reveal the richness of flavors and aromas of real extra virgin olive oil.

Aquarium Pula

Aquarium Pula is a window into the wonderful and secret underwater world. The aquarium, located in a 130-year-old Austro-Hungarian fortress, is home to numerous marine inhabitants, from colorful fish to magnificent sharks, jellyfish, seahorses, and other marine animals, especially valuable to the Center for the Recovery of Sea Turtles. Visiting this center is not only an educational experience but also an opportunity to see firsthand how important it is to contribute together to the protection of the sea and its inhabitants. Do not miss this unique opportunity to become part of something truly special. A visit to the aquarium is an opportunity for learning, discovery, and admiration of the beauties hidden in the depths of the sea.

Gladiator fights in the Pula Arena

Just a few steps from the House of Istrian Olive Oil is the Pula Arena, which takes you back to the time of the Romans when brave gladiators faced off in front of an enthusiastic audience. This is an opportunity to feel the breath of history and experience the spectacle that comes to life before your eyes. Gladiator fights “Spectacvla antiqva” are held from mid-June to mid-September in the evening. Imagine the atmosphere of the Pula amphitheater under the starry sky, where you can become part of history and enjoy the enchanting spectacle of modern gladiators. This is an opportunity you simply cannot miss. These modern gladiators not only revive ancient traditions, but over time they have climbed to the very top of the European gladiator scene.

Istria is a place where everyone can find their adventure. If you love excitement, there is an adrenaline water park. If you are interested in something new, you can learn about olive oil. If you want peace, visit Brijuni. All these attractions offer a chance for an unforgettable experience. So, whether you are looking for excitement, knowledge, or rest, Istria awaits you with open arms and the promise of an adventure that you will remember for a long time.