Istria in Autumn Colours

Istria is particularly appealing during the autumn months, when the pace of the destination slows down, temperatures become more pleasant, and local flavours and traditions take centre stage. September and October are ideal for exploring inland Istria, discovering picturesque medieval towns, vineyards, olive groves and forests.

Autumn in Istria is above all the season of truffles, wine and local specialities. Motovun and its surroundings are renowned for their white truffles, and joining experienced truffle hunters and their dogs in search of this prized delicacy can be a truly unique experience. Alongside truffles, autumn is also the season of the grape harvest and a perfect time to enjoy Istrian wines, particularly Teran.

Istrian prosciutto, traditional brandies, local wines, gin and other authentic products also have a special place on the autumn culinary calendar. Throughout September and October, numerous events offer the opportunity to discover Istrian gastronomy through tastings, fairs, festivals and a variety of outdoor experiences.

Some of the most interesting autumn events include:

• 5 September – White Truffle Season Opening – Truffle Hunt and Tasting (Motovun)
• 7–13 September – Tunalicious Festival (Poreč)
• 11 September – Pinguente Piccante (Buzet)
• 12 September – Fig and Fig Cake Festival (Barban)
• 12–13 September – Subotina and Subotina in the Old-Fashioned Style (Buzet)
• 18–20 September – 120th Festa dell’Uva / Grape Festival (Buje)
• 18–20 September – Buzet Days (Buzet)
• 19–20 September – Grmali Fest (Funtana)
• 22–27 September – CRO Race (Rabac/Labin)
• 26 September – Wine & Walk by the Sea (Novigrad)
• 3 October – Istria300 (Poreč)
• 3 October – Teran Wine & Walk (Motovun)
• 3 October–1 November – Zigante Truffle Days (Livade)
• 4 October – Istrian Donkey Festival (Svetvinčenat)
• 10–11 October – Lim Bay Challenge (Vrsar)
• 16–18 October – ISAP – International Prosciutto Fair (Tinjan)
• 17–18 October – Teran and Truffle Festival (Motovun)
• 17–18 October – Mushroom Days (Novigrad)
• 18 October – IRONMAN 70.3 Poreč Istria Croatia (Poreč)
• 23–24 October – GinIstra Festival (Rovinj)

Autumn in Istria offers much more than a traditional seaside holiday – it is a time to discover local flavours, experience authentic traditions, explore historic towns and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, away from the summer crowds.

In the link below, you can also find a list of campsites that remain open throughout September and October. Choose your ideal accommodation and make the most of the autumn months by discovering everything Istria has to offer.