Porec is a unique Mediterranean city on the West coast of Croatia on the Istrian Peninsula. We decided to write a Porec, Croatia travel guide after having the privilege of visiting the city during an amazing Adriatic cruise. It serves as a gateway to Slovenia and Italy, with the influence of the neighboring countries felt throughout the small town.
The history of Porec (pronounced Por-etch) goes back 6,000 years. The town has been ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Napoleon. Also, it was once a part of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, Italy, and Yugoslavia.
Porec Croatia Travel Guide
Constructed between the 12th and 16th centuries, fortified walls and towers protected the Old Town of Porec. Some of these structures remain today. In 1997, the Euphrasian Basilica in Porec was named as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
We explored Porec on our small ship cruise. As our last stop, Porec served as our disembarkation port and hub of transportation following the cruise. Many interesting features make this a memorable city to explore on any cruising itinerary. Visit CruiseDirect to check out their latest last-minute cruise deals.
The Town Square | Porec Croatia
Many gather in the town center to admire The Church of Our Lady of the Angels. enjoy the Italian cafe vibes, and take advantage of the free city Wi-Fi.
Roman Preserved Streets
The layout of the town’s city center remains from ancient times. In fact, the names of the two main streets, Decumanus Maximus and Cardo Maximus were both named during the Roman reign. Eufrazijeva is another must-see Street to explore by foot.
Pentagonal Tower | Porec Croatia
This trendy bar and restaurant are on Decumanus Street in Porec Old Town. Built in 1447, it was part of the Venetian defenses and still has the original staircase. Take note of the lion insignia of Venice still on the tower.
The food at the restaurant is known to be costly and often hit or miss. Therefore, we recommend getting a drink on the top to enjoy the amazing city and sea views.
Old Town
While strolling the Old Town, pay attention to the facades of the buildings from all the different periods. Get lost on the quaint, cobblestone paths. Many photographers enjoy walking the back alleys to discover some of the most charming areas of the town.
Marafor Square
Marafor Square is the oldest and largest Square from the Roman period. Next, to it are the remains of Roman Temples dedicated to Mars and Neptune. There isn’t any signage or additional tourist information available, so you’ll have to use your imagination to conjure up what these ancient ruins used to look like from approximately 2,000 years ago.
Zuccato Palace
In the crossing Cardo Maximus and Decumanus Maximus sits Zuccato Palace gothic palace known for its distinct Venetian style and decoration.
Euphrasian Basilica
Registered on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997, the most precious landmark in Porec is the Euphrasian Basilica. The early-Christian compound is the only complete landmark in the world preserved from that period.
Built during the time of Bishop Euphrasius in the 6th century, the complex includes an atrium, baptistery, bishop’s palace, mosaics, and the remains of sacral buildings dating from the 3rd to the 4th centuries.
The mosaics which decorate the inside and facade of the church are considered a valuable bequest of Byzantine art and are the highlight of the visit. The admission fee is 40 kuna per person.
Romanesque House
The Romanesque House has a lovely wood-crafted balcony made during the 13th century. As a result, the home makes for an interesting photography subject on any walking tour of Porec.
Porec is a town full of significant historical and architectural finds everywhere you look! We visited this Mediterranean city on a small ship cruise.
