Attractions of Porec

Source www.placesofjuma.com

The town of Porec, which has about 17,000 inhabitants, is one of the most important coastal towns in Istria, along with Rovinj and the port city Pula. Situated on a long, narrow peninsula and surrounded by an ancient city wall, the old town of Porec is a real jewel on the Adriatic. Also beautiful is the small offshore island of Sveti Nikola, which is located just a few hundred meters off the coast and dominates the townscape. Probably the most famous attraction of Porec is the impressive Euphrasius Basilica, which has been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Waterfront and Harbor

A real gem in Porec is the long waterfront promenade. The so-called Lungomare Porec circles the entire old town and during a walk, you can enjoy a breathtaking ambience here. Especially the harbor scenery with the historic wall, the countless pastel colored town houses, the fabulous restaurants and cafés and the luxurious yachts is unique in Porec. In addition, this promenade connects the city center with the beautiful bays and beaches along the coast. The two beautiful green peninsulas Zelena Laguna and Plava Laguna are also connected to the old town of Porec via the sea promenade.

Basilica of Euphrasius

The most famous attraction in Porec is the Basilica of Euphrasius, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 and is one of the most valuable cultural monuments of the port city. It is a bit hidden in a side street of the old town, just after the shopping street. The basilica was built in place of an oratory dating back to the 4th century and is now one of the most important sacred sites in Croatia. Many parts of the complex date back to the 6th century and are now open to the public as a museum. The highlights of this church include the ornate, very well-preserved mosaics and the column capitals, which can be viewed during a visit. The view from the tower of Euphrasius Basilica over the old town of Porec is also an experience not to be missed!

Main Square and Church Gospa od Andela

The main square, also known as Trg. Slobode is a popular place for cultural as well as other events, concerts and small festivals, especially in summer. It is located right at the beginning of the old town and important attractions are also in the immediate vicinity. Fantastic are also the cozy cafes on the square, where you can enjoy the unique and sometimes boisterous atmosphere. The 18th century church Gospe od Andela is also located directly on the main square. It is the largest church in the city and thanks to its interesting paintings it is also worth seeing from the inside.

Main Street Decumanus

Probably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Porec is Decumanus street, the promenade of the coastal town, which dates back to Roman times. Lined with countless stores and boutiques, this cobblestone street is a true shopper’s paradise for locals as well as tourists. It begins in the east at the main square, Trg. Slobode, and leads once across the old town, past many historical attractions and buildings. During a walk, you will discover other exciting sights such as the Pentagonal Tower and the Municipal Museum of Porec.

The Towers of Porec

The towers of Porec are the most fascinating attraction of the old town. There are still 3 towers left today from the fortifications, which were built between the 12th and 16th centuries. The most famous tower is probably the Pentagonal Tower in the shopping street, and on the top there is a lovely restaurant with a panoramic view. Also interesting is the Northern Tower from 1473 near the former city wall and the Round Tower near the harbor that scores with a terrace, including a really cool cocktail bar.

Matije Gupca Square

Matije Gupca, formerly called Piazza dei Signori, is one of the most beautiful squares in the old town and a popular meeting place for locals and tourists. Especially worth seeing here are the countless beautiful city palaces, such as the picturesque Venetian Zuccato Palace in Gothic and Baroque style. Unfortunately, the western facade of the square was destroyed in World War II, and thus, today there is a small pretty park. You will also find a really cozy cafe there, where you can enjoy a cool drink and enjoy the picturesque old town scenery.

Romanesque House

One of the most interesting things to see in Porec is the Romanesque House in the old town. It dates back to the 13th century and is one of the oldest houses in the city. Located near the square Marafor, this popular photo motif can hardly be missed during a stroll through the city. Once there was a stable on the first floor and a large living room with a fireplace on the upper floor. Today, there is a small ethnographic exhibition on the 1st and 2nd floor, which is open to visitors during the summer months.

Park J. Dobrile

A jewel of the port city Porec is the hidden park J. Dobrile. This small green area is located directly in the old town of Porec and enchants with an exceptionally romantic ambience. Interesting is also the Roman archway in the center of the square, which gives this place that certain something. Nearby is the bust of bishop Juraj Dobrila. Around the park there are some excellent restaurants and also some cool boutiques.

Otok Sveti Nikola

The enchanting island of Sveti Nikola is located only 400 meters from Porec and can be reached by boat from the harbor in just 5 minutes. During a walk on the island you can experience a real quiet island feeling, lush green pine forests, well-tended gardens and a variety of beaches. There is even a specially built small sandy beach on Otok Sveti Nikola. The view of Porec that you can enjoy from the island is also phenomenal and a real highlight.

Marafor Square

Somewhat hidden, at the upper tip of Porec, is the small Marafor Square. This was in Roman times the forum of the city with government buildings and some temples. On the outskirts were the two temples of Mars and Neptune, both built in the 1st century. Remains of the former temple complex have been preserved until today and can currently be visited free of charge. A small jewel that you can explore quite comfortably via a walk.

Beaches in Porec

The beaches in Porec and its surroundings are also wonderful and a real highlight. From white pebble beaches and clean rocky beaches to fine sandy beaches, everything is here. Many of these beaches even carry the Blue Flag, a seal for top cleanliness, water quality and facilities.