From Rovinj: Rovinj, Motovun and Gronjan Day Tour

If you’re looking to peel back the layers of Croatia’s Istrian coast, this full-day guided tour from Rovinj offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural intrigue, and delicious local flavors. While I haven’t taken this specific trip myself, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of a well-organized, authentic experience designed to give travelers a genuine taste of the region.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the stunning panoramic views from Motovun are a highlight, offering perfect photo opportunities and a sense of being on top of the world. Second, the truffle tasting in Motovun—home to some of the world’s most expensive mushrooms—adds a culinary edge that many visitors find memorable. Third, the chance to wander through the artistic, cobbled streets of Groznjan, a village that was once abandoned and now revitalized by creative souls, feels like stepping into a living art gallery.

The possible downside? The tour’s price point of $146 per person is reasonable for a full-day experience, but the entry fee to Motovun’s city walls (about 5 euros) isn’t included. If you’re on a tight budget, that’s something to consider. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to walking on cobbles and uneven terrain.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love scenic drives, cultural exploration, and local food. If you’re eager for a well-rounded day that combines history, art, and gastronomy in beautiful surroundings, this is likely to fit the bill.

Good To Know

• Authentic regional experience: Visit three distinctive towns, each with its own character and charm.
• Stunning vistas: Expect incredible panoramic views, especially from Motovun’s hilltop walls.
• Culinary highlight: Truffle tasting offers a flavorful glimpse into Istria’s prized delicacies.
• Knowledgeable guides: Local guides provide insight and context, making the history come alive.
• Flexible pace: Free time and optional activities allow you to explore at your own speed.
• Value for money: At $146, you get multiple stops, guided tours, tastings, and transportation, making it a well-priced option for a full day out.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour kicks off with pickup from one of seven convenient locations in Rovinj, such as Hotel Eden, Hotel Lone, or Rovinj Bus Station. The group remains small—limited to 8 participants—which enhances the personal feel and allows guides to tailor the experience when possible.

Rovinj: The Starting Point

Your day begins with a walking tour of Rovinj, often described as the “Adriatic pearl.” This city is a charming blend of colorful buildings, narrow alleys, and historical sites. Guides like Denis and Davor are lauded for their engaging storytelling, sharing tidbits about Rovinj’s past and its artistic vibe. Expect around 105 minutes here, giving you ample time to appreciate the town’s lively atmosphere, take photos, and maybe grab a coffee.

Driving Through Istria’s Countryside

After Rovinj, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle for a scenic drive through Istria’s rolling hills. The ride itself is an opportunity to admire the lush landscapes and terraced vineyards that make this region famous. The first stop after the drive is Groznjan, an abandoned village turned artist enclave.

Groznjan: Art and Abandonment

In Groznjan, you’ll explore cobbled streets and colorful workshops that brim with creative energy. As a village that was deserted after World War II, its revival by artists from all over Yugoslavia makes it both historically poignant and vibrantly artistic. Tour guides often mention the “romantic stone alleys” and “colorful workshops” as highlights. Reviewers like Sim appreciated the flexibility here, noting the small group size allowed for an intimate visit, and some wish there was more time to soak in the scenery.

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Motovun: The Iconic Hilltop Town

Next, the tour heads to Motovun, arguably the crown jewel of Istria’s hilltop villages. The views from the walls are a major draw, offering sweeping vistas of the countryside. You can walk along the city walls (not included in the price) and take in the landscape that’s dotted with vineyards and olive groves.

But the real highlight in Motovun is the truffle tasting. Known for some of the most expensive mushrooms in the world, Motovun’s truffle products are a culinary treasure. The tasting usually includes a variety of truffle-infused products, giving you a chance to sample the region’s prized delicacies. Several reviews mentioned that the truffle tasting was a real treat, with some travelers noting the opportunity to taste both white and black truffles, especially during the Truffle Festival.

For those interested, you can also explore local shops and buy truffle-based products as souvenirs, though shopping time is limited to about 30 minutes.

Free Time and Return

After the tasting and exploration, travelers are given some free time for shopping or a quick lunch (not included). The tour then departs for the scenic drive back to Rovinj, arriving in the late afternoon.

Practical Details

This tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with multiple stops designed to give a balanced mix of guided and free exploration. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort. The cost includes pickup and drop-off from several central Rovinj locations, guided walking tours of Rovinj, Groznjan, and Motovun, and a delectable truffle tasting in Motovun.

What’s not included? Entrance to the Motovun city walls costs about 5 euros, and personal expenses like lunch or drinks are extras. The tour’s flexibility and knowledgeable guides make it a good value, especially considering the insider insights and local flavor you gain.

Insights from Travelers’ Reviews

Many guests highlighted the expertise and friendliness of guides like Denis and Davor, with one reviewer noting, “He knew the best navigation of the towns we visited and gave us ample free time.” The truffle tasting also received praise, with several reviewers mentioning they sampled both black and white truffles, making it a true gastronomic highlight.

The tour’s timing often aligns with festivals or special events, adding extra flavor to the experience. One traveler remarked, “We were fortunate enough to take the tour during the Truffle Festival,” which made the tasting even more special.

While most reviews were glowing, a few pointed out minor issues such as the need for bottled water (not always provided) or the condition of the vehicle’s shocks, but these did not significantly detract from the overall positive experiences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Istria’s towns without extensive planning. It suits those interested in history, art, and cuisine, and who enjoy small-group settings that allow for a more flexible, intimate exploration. If you’re keen on sampling local delicacies like truffles and soaking in breathtaking vistas, this tour offers excellent value.

Conversely, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility impairments or those seeking a more physically demanding adventure, as walking on cobblestone streets can be challenging.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded day of discovery blending history, art, natural beauty, and culinary delights. The combination of expert guides, picturesque stops, and authentic local flavors makes it a strong choice for those wanting to experience the best of Istria in a single day.

Its moderate price point, small group size, and inclusive guided walks with tastings make it a compelling option. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Croatia, this trip promises a flavorful and scenic day packed with memorable moments.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers pickup and drop-off from select Rovinj locations, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guides speaking English, guided walking tours of Rovinj, Groznjan, and Motovun, and a truffle tasting in Motovun.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with scheduled stops and free time to explore.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the entrance fee to Motovun’s city walls (~5 euros) is not included. Personal expenses like lunch and drinks are also extra.

What stops does the tour include?
Stops are in Rovinj, Groznjan, and Motovun, with scenic drives between each. You’ll explore each town’s main sights and enjoy tastings.

Is the tour suitable for kids or seniors?
While generally suitable for most, it might be challenging for those with mobility issues due to walking on cobbled streets.

How many people are on the tour?
The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility with your travel plans.

Is there a guide during the trip?
Yes, a professional English-speaking guide leads the tour, providing insights and answering questions along the way.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces.

What is the recommended age for participants?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, but there’s no specified age limit for able-bodied travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: