April 27, 2025 – Rovinj and the Istrian Coastline

We jumped in the car this morning with no strict plans, just the open road and a rough idea to head toward Rovinj. The drive itself was pretty easy, winding through quiet countryside until the sea peeked back into view. Rovinj had been calling our names.

This little coastal gem was once an island, until they filled in the narrow channel that separated it from the mainland. Now it’s grown just enough to give you space to wander but still feels like a place out of time. With its pastel buildings and open piazzas, you’d honestly be forgiven for thinking you’d accidentally crossed into Italy. The sun danced off the deep blue of the Adriatic, boats bobbed gently in the harbor — everything from tiny fishing vessels to sleek yachts — and kids raced around the squares while parents lounged nearby with glasses of wine or gelato in hand. Not bad at all.

The old streets twist and climb their way up the hill, where the Church of St. Euphemia watches over it all. It’s got that tall, elegant bell tower that feels very Venice, complete with a statue of St. Euphemia at the top, keeping an eye on things. Inside the church, they say her bones are kept, and the way they got there is straight out of a legend.

An American suffragette and travel writer named Alice Lee Moqué recorded the story years ago. Two fishermen were caught in a terrible storm and, fearing for their lives, dropped to their knees in prayer. When the skies cleared, they found themselves safely near the shore of Rovinj. Just offshore, they saw a bright white light shining over something in the water. They couldn’t move it, though, no matter how hard they tried. Word spread, and still no one could budge the mysterious object — until a young, devout boy came up with a plan. With a team of oxen, he hauled the sarcophagus from the sea and up the hill. There’s even a twist involving a doubter who fainted on the spot and later claimed he’d seen a vision from the saint herself. Apparently, that’s when the town began calling it the Hill of St. Euphemia. Even though the relics were later stolen, passed between Genoa and Venice, they eventually made their way back in the 14th century, where they’ve remained ever since.

We spent the whole sunny afternoon soaking in Rovinj’s charm. Gelato in hand, we browsed little art shops, lingered in cafes, and just let the light turn everything golden. One of those days where time slows down a little.

On the way back to Porec, we pulled over for dinner at a roadside grill offering roast pig — and, if we’re being honest, we picked the wrong one. Too flashy, too polished, and definitely aimed at tourists. We’d get our redemption later on in Korcula, but let this be a lesson: if the place doesn’t look like someone’s backyard setup with a smoky grill and maybe a few plastic chairs, keep driving.

Back in Porec, we dropped off the car, strolled back into town, and caught one last, dreamy sunset. The kind that makes you pause and take a deep breath, grateful for the day and the stories that came with it.

🗺️ Explore Rovinj with Viator – If planning everything yourself feels a bit overwhelming, our friends at Viator have some great options to take the pressure off. They offer everything from easygoing walking tours right on site to full-day adventures. We’ve booked through Viator many times and have always had a great experience. It’s a solid choice if you prefer a bit more structure in your travel days, without the hassle of sorting out every little detail on your own.