Attractions of Umag

Umag is located in the north of Istria, not far from the Slovenian border, and is therefore also known as the “gateway to Croatia”. Once a summer residence of the Roman nobility, the coastal town is still a popular place for a vacation on the Croatian Adriatic. Due to its ideal location and, of course, thanks to its uniquely beautiful flair, Umag in Croatia has become one of the most famous travel destinations in the country over the years.

The Old Town in Umag

Uniquely beautiful and one of the best things to do is a visit to the picturesque old town in Umag. The history of the town center goes back to ancient times and was later discovered by Roman noblemen. Even today, remains of the town walls and towers can be admired during a stroll through the enchanting historical old town, which was also greatly impacted by the Venetian style. Wonderful and definitely worth a visit is the picturesque seaside promenade with the Croatian stone houses, where restaurants and cozy cafes with a stunning view of the sea are lined up. Here you will also find the small city beach Dante, where you can cool down a little.

The main square, Trg Slobode, is certainly one of the most beautiful places in the city center. Here you will find some cozy cafés and excellent restaurants where you can enjoy local dishes in a fabulous atmosphere. But the most important attraction there is the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, whose freestanding church tower St. Pellegrinus offers a view over the entire old town of Umag. The small romantic stone alleys are so enchanting, forming a labyrinth in the old town with small restaurants and wine bars. The alleys then also lead to the town’s museum “Gradski Muzej”, where various archaeological exhibits from the Roman period are displayed.

Lighthouse Savudrija

One of the most beautiful attractions to visit in Umag is the Savudrija Lighthouse, which is situated about 9 kilometers from the town center. This building was built almost 200 years ago by the architect Pietro Nobile from local white stones from the coast. The lighthouse, which is almost 36 meters high, is beautifully situated on a cape whose wild rocky beach is perfect for a few relaxing hours of swimming by the sea.

Sunsets at Savudrija Beach

Just 300 meters south of the famous lighthouse is the wonderful Savudrija Beach, an attraction of Umag that should not be missed on any trip. Typical here are the iconic boats hanging on wooden pillars, which have become a landmark of the region. Especially unique and a real insider tip is a visit in the evening at sunset, when a magnificent play of colors forms in the sky.

The Sunken City Sipar

The Sunken City Sipar, one of the most beautifully situated archaeological sites in Istria, is only about 4 kilometers from Umag. It lies on a narrow headland near the Polynesia beach and can be reached by a walk at low tide. Based on the archaeological remains, it can be said that the area in and around Sipar had already been inhabited in the early Iron Age. Later, the Romans established a settlement here, the remains of which can be admired today in the Umag Museum.

Beaches in Umag

In Umag there are some charming bathing places. Most of them are pebble or well-kept concrete beaches, but there are also beautiful hidden bays and sandy beaches that invite to have a swim.