Istria Photo Tour from Zagreb: Motovun, Rovinj & Pula Arena

Summary

Explore Istria’s Hilltop Towns & Roman Ruins with Your Camera

If you want to capture Istria’s real character—from medieval hill towns to colorful ports and ancient Roman ruins—this tour covers it all with local insight and plenty of photo stops along the way.

What’s the experience like?

Motovun came into view as we wound up the narrow road—morning mist still clinging to the valley below. The old stone walls looked almost golden in the early light. Our guide, Luka, pointed out a tiny bakery tucked beside the gate; you could smell fresh bread even before stepping inside. We spent time walking the ramparts, snapping shots of tiled rooftops and vineyards that seemed to roll on forever. It’s easy to see why this hilltop town was so important centuries ago—every angle felt like a postcard.

Later in Rovinj, the air changed—salty and a bit tangy from the sea. The houses here are right up against the water, paint peeling in places but somehow making it all more charming. We wandered through cobbled lanes where cats lounged in doorways and laundry fluttered overhead. Climbing up to St. Euphemia church took some effort (those steps are no joke), but standing on that plateau with views over red roofs and blue Adriatic was worth every breath. If you’re up for it, you can climb the bell tower—the tallest in Istria—and catch even wider views.

Pula felt different again—busier, with shipyard sounds mixing with gulls overhead. The Roman amphitheater sits right in the middle of things; it’s massive but somehow blends into daily life here. Luka shared stories about gladiators and how locals used to gather for shows centuries ago. As we explored inside, sunlight filtered through ancient arches—a perfect spot for dramatic photos if you catch it at the right hour. By late afternoon, shadows stretched across the arena floor and you could almost picture what it was like back then.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Istria Photography Highlights

• Photograph Motovun hilltop and walls
• Explore Rovinj port and St. Euphemia church
• Visit Pula Roman amphitheater

Top questions

Is this photo tour suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The guide tailors tips for all levels—whether you're just starting out or have experience behind the lens.

How much walking is involved?

You’ll walk quite a bit on uneven ground and some steep streets, especially in Motovun and Rovinj. A moderate fitness level helps.

What should I bring for weather changes?

I’d recommend layers—it can be cool in Motovun early on but warmer by the coast later. Comfortable shoes are a must.

Are meals included during the tour?

No meals are included, but there’s time to grab snacks or lunch at local spots along the way.

What’s included

This full-day trip includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Zagreb, private transport for your small group (up to seven), plus a professional photographer as your guide throughout Istria’s highlights.