Embark on a 9-day journey through the picturesque landscapes and historic cities of Istria, Croatia, and Italy's Veneto region. This itinerary is designed for those seeking a relaxing yet enriching experience, combining the best of sightseeing, local culture, and leisure activities. From the sun-kissed beaches of Istria to the romantic canals of Venice and the historical streets of Verona, this trip promises a delightful blend of exploration and relaxation.

Istria, located in the northwestern part of Croatia, is known for its stunning coastline, charming hilltop towns, and rich culinary heritage. The region offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and explore. Venice, the iconic city of canals, is a must-visit for its unique architecture, vibrant art scene, and romantic ambiance. Finally, Verona, famous for its Shakespearean connections and well-preserved Roman architecture, offers a glimpse into Italy's rich history and culture.

Throughout this itinerary, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in local delicacies, explore historic sites, and relax in beautiful natural settings. Whether you're sipping coffee in a quaint café, hiking through scenic trails, or enjoying a spa day, this trip is designed to provide a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Istria at a Glance

• Best Sights: Pula Arena, Rovinj Old Town, Brijuni National Park
• Local Delicacies: Truffles, olive oil, Istrian wine
• Fun Fact: Istria is known as the "Tuscany of Croatia" for its rolling hills and vineyards.
• Where to Stay: Explore accommodations on VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 1: Arrival in Istria

Arrive in Istria in the afternoon. Settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Rovinj. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at La Puntulina, known for its stunning sea views and delicious seafood dishes.

Day 2: Explore Pula and Brijuni National Park

In the morning, visit the historic Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. In the afternoon, take a boat tour to Brijuni National Park for dolphin watching and island exploration. Consider the Dolphins Watching in the National Park Brijuni from Pula tour.

Day 3: Istrian Culinary Delights

Spend the day indulging in Istria's culinary offerings. Join the Istrian tapestry - gourmet tour combining wine, truffles and olive oil to taste local wines, truffles, and olive oil. In the evening, enjoy a sunset dinner at Konoba Batelina, a local favorite for fresh seafood.

Venice at a Glance

• Must-See Attractions: St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, Rialto Bridge
• Local Experiences: Gondola rides, Venetian mask-making workshops
• Fun Fact: Venice is built on over 100 small islands connected by canals and bridges.
• Where to Stay: Find accommodations on VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 4: Travel to Venice

Travel from Istria to Venice via train or bus. Use Omio to find the best travel options. Arrive in Venice and spend the afternoon exploring the iconic St. Mark's Square. Enjoy dinner at Osteria alle Testiere, a cozy spot known for its seafood and intimate atmosphere.

Day 5: Discover Venice's Highlights

Start your day with a guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace. Consider the Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride tour. In the afternoon, take a gondola ride through the canals. For dinner, try Trattoria al Gatto Nero on Burano Island, famous for its risotto and seafood.

Day 6: Explore Murano and Burano

Take a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. Visit glassblowing workshops in Murano and enjoy the colorful houses of Burano. Join the Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat. Return to Venice for a relaxing evening at a local café.

Verona at a Glance

• Top Attractions: Verona Arena, Juliet's House, Piazza delle Erbe
• Local Cuisine: Risotto all'Amarone, Pandoro
• Fun Fact: Verona is the setting for Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet."
• Where to Stay: Check out accommodations on VRBO or Hotels.com.

Day 7: Travel to Verona

Travel from Venice to Verona by train, a journey of about 1.5 hours. Use Omio for travel options. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic Verona Arena and Piazza Bra. Enjoy dinner at Ristorante 12 Apostoli, known for its traditional Veronese dishes.

Day 8: Explore Verona's Romantic Side

Visit Juliet's House and the beautiful Piazza delle Erbe. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Adige River. For dinner, try Osteria del Bugiardo, a local favorite for its wine and cicchetti.

Day 9: Departure

Spend your final morning in Verona enjoying a relaxing breakfast at a local café. Take a last stroll through the city before heading to the airport for your departure. Use Omio to find the best travel options to the airport.

This 9-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, allowing you to experience the best of Istria, Venice, and Verona. From historic sites to local culinary delights, this trip promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and culture of Croatia and Italy.