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Colorful houses overlooking the waterfront of Porec, Croatia.

Things to do in  Porec

A peninsula that pops

A vision in golden stone and sienna tile, Porec Old Town sits on a compact and postcard-perfect peninsula. It’s easy to spend a day at one of the many cafés dotting the historic center’s plazas and walkways, but there’s also a lot to see. Things to do in Porec range from exploring the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica to visiting the island of Sveti Nikola. A short drive away are the shadowy caverns and rock formations of Baredine Cave (Grotta Baredine).

Top 2 attractions in Porec

All about Porec

Time Zone
CEST (+1)
When to visit

Ample sun and heat draw crowds to Porec during its bustling and beach-ready high season. The Summer in Porec festival stretches from mid-June through September, featuring free and ticketed musical performances and other cultural events. Shoulder seasons are less crowded, but still serve plenty of bright days; May’s Vinistra Festival draws wine lovers from around the world to meet local winemakers.

Getting around

The narrow lanes of Porec Old Town are best explored on foot or bicycle, but options abound if you’re going farther afield. A seasonal tourist train links the town center with a handful of resorts from April through October, while plenty of taxis cluster around the walkable core. Water taxis are another option—many depart from the Old Town waterfront.

Traveler tips

You don’t need concert tickets to catch live music in Porec, where many bars host regular performances. Try Comitium Bar in the heart of the Old Town for cocktails, a relaxed scene, and outdoor seating during warm-weather months. Those seeking a livelier atmosphere can check out Byblos nightclub, where parties often last into the early morning hours.

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People Also Ask
Q:Is Porec in Croatia worth seeing?
A:

Yes, Porec is worth seeing. Not only does the city boast a handful of major historic sights, it's in a stunning location. Even if you’re just coming for a few hours, it's worth stopping to browse the walkable Old Town, visit a café, and take in the beach scene.

Q:How long should you spend in Porec?
A:

Many visitors come to Porec on day trips, so you can tick off key Old Town landmarks in an afternoon of sightseeing. With two or three days, you can also add an island excursion, do some swimming and snorkeling, and visit the spectacular limestone formations of Baredine Cave (Grotta Baredine).

Q:Is Porec expensive to eat out?
A:

Dining in Croatia is relatively affordable compared with neighboring countries and Porec is no exception. You can often find inexpensive daily menus at one of the city’s konobas (traditional taverns), which generally specialize in grilled meats, fish, and local delicacies like Istrian prosciutto or truffled pasta.

Q:Can you drink the tap water in Porec?
A:

Yes, you can drink the tap water in Porec and throughout Croatia. While it's perfectly safe, many locals still drink bottled water when dining out. If you’d prefer to drink tap water at the restaurant—a healthy and waste-saving option—you may need to ask the server to bring you a glass.

Q:Can you swim in Porec?
A:

Yes, you can swim in Porec—the town is even home to a recreational swimming marathon. The blue-green water on the Croatian coast is clean enough to swim in, and between the mainland and islands, there are 21 beaches with the Blue Flag certification that ensures hygiene and safety.

Q:Does Porec have a sandy beach?
A:

Yes, Porec has a sandy beach. Although much of the shoreline is made up of pale, pebbled beaches, Maro Sandy Beach on nearby Sveti Nikola Island is a great place for lounging and swimming. It’s easily accessible from Porec Old Town, too, just a 5-minute boat trip from the waterfront.