Silversea Luxury Cruises Nach Pula

Explore the rich history and splendid flavours of the Istrian hinterland during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Scenic Drive, Porec

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Porec, a cultural and historical jewel by international standards. Today's town plan dates from the Roman times, about 50 B.C. Following the common Roman town model, Porec has two main intersecting streets, Cardo and Decumanus, which remain the backbone of the Old Town to this day.

Euphrasian Basilica, Marafor, House of Two Saints, Istrian Parliament, Leoni and Zuccato Palaces

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through the Old Town. Along the way, see the Episcopal complex of the Euphrasian Basilica. Built in the 6th century, it is the most valuable monument in Porec, as well as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additional highlights include the Marafor, the oldest part of town with the remains of two Roman temples, House of Two Saints, Istrian Parliament Building, and the Leoni and Zuccato Palaces. Following your tour, some free time is made available to explore Porec at your leisure.

Sveti Lovrec Village, Matosevic Winery, Wine Tasting with Local Specialities

Next, re-board your coach and head to the Istrian hinterland en route to the village of Sveti Lovrec, where a visit is made to the Matosevic Winery, one of the most renowned Croatian wine producers. Upon arrival, proceed to the wine cellar for a tasting of some of their finest red and white wines accompanied by homemade cheese and Istrian prosciutto. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 820 yards (about 750 metres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 30 steps at the sites visited. Walking in Porec is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required to enter the Euphrasian Basilica; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary.

Indulge your senses with the picturesque beauty, romance and flavours of the Istrian Peninsula during a memorable visit to this Medieval enclave.

Scenic Drive, Motovun

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate one-hour drive to Motovun, situated at the top of the hill and overlooking the Mirna River valley. The only possibility to reach Town is by using a local shuttle bus service (5 minutes ride - not exclusive to Silversea Cruises), which is operating regularly. Unfortunately this is the only option as all other buses are not allowed for safety reason to drive up hill to the town.

Walking tour & Free Time

An astonishing architectural landmark, this hilltop town has retained its Medieval feel along its narrow streets and within its well-preserved, intact town walls. Many claim that Motovun is the most beautiful town in all of Istria. Upon arrival, take a walking tour past the Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance-style buildings en route to the main square, which is dominated by the 13-century belfry of St. Stephen's Church. See the lions as they stand guard over the town gates, and take in splendid views of the Mirna river valley below. Some free time is then made available to explore the village and browse the shops at your leisure before proceeding to Livade Village.

Livade Village, Zigante Restaurant & Truffle Delicacies Lunch

Next, re-board your coach for the scenic, uphill drive to the village of Livade which is the most known by its reachnes with Truffles. The season of the white truffle starts in October and lasts until the end of January. The season of the black truffle starts in May and lasts until November. The white truffle (Tuber Magnatum Pico) is the largest and the most precious sort of truffles. Its colour ranges from yellow-brown to green or grey-green. The black truffle (Tuber Aestivium Vitt), also known as the 'summer truffle,' is brown to black in colour, while its size varies from the size of a cherry to the size of an apple, as is the case with the white truffle. The biggest truffle found weighted 1.31 kg and entered the Guinness Book of World Records. It was found on 2^nd of November 1999 near Buje by Mr Giancarlo Zigante. In Zigante restaurant you will have the opportunity to enjoy delicious specialties made of local truffles while sipping glass of excellent Istrian Wine.

After lunch, re-board your coach for a drive through the rolling hills back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times on inclines, and over uneven, cobblestone surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or for those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests should wear seasonal clothing, flat, walking shoes and sun protection.

Explore the ancient beauty and historical landmarks of one of the oldest towns in Europe during this memorable walking tour of Pula.

According to myth, Jason and Medea founded Pula, formerly known as 'Polai', on the southernmost part of the Istrian Peninsula. Later, the Romans changed it into a resort town for the 'pleasure of the rich.'

Pula Walking Tour

After a short tender ride, meet your guide and start a walking tour of Pula which offers a unique insight into the 3,000-year-old history of one of the oldest towns in Europe. The city is best known for its many surviving ancient Roman buildings, the most famous of which is its 1st-century amphitheater. Locally-known as the 'Arena', it is the sixth-largest amphitheater in the world. This ancient structure's appearance belies its age and it is still used today for summer film festivals.

Your walking tour continues with visits to other notable and well-preserved ancient Roman structures, including the Sergius Arch and the temple to the god Apollo, built in honour of the 1st-century Roman emperor Caesar Augustus. Along the way, see the Roman city gates and walls and a Byzantine chapel.

City Marketplace

Next, proceed to the colourful and famous City Market. This recently-renovated marketplace reflects the Austro-Hungarian heritage of the residents and attracts people from the nearby villages. After your guided walking tour, you may remain in town and browse the shops at your leisure.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. The tour sequence may vary. Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a camera from the ship.

Experience the breath-taking natural beauty, coastline, flora and fauna of Brijuni National Park during this exclusive, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Speedboat-Ride, Brijuni National Park, Islands, Coves, Flora and Fauna, Bird Species

Depart the pier for a short drive to Fazana. Upon arrival, embark your awaiting private speedboat for the short ride to Brijuni National Park. The park spans approximately 1,818 acres (about 736 hectares), and is comprised of a beautiful archipelago of islands and picturesque coves that dot its approximately 27.3 miles (about 44 kilometres) of coastline. A microclimate here allows both native and foreign flora and fauna to flourish; over 150 bird species can be found here.

Visitors have been coming to Brijuni National Park for millennia, and there are many archaeological sites on the islands that show humans have lived on the islands since the Neolithic Age. A safari park on one of the islands was established in 1978 for the enjoyment of then-Yugoslav President Josip Tito, who owned a private retreat on the islands and entertained world leaders here, including Eleanor Roosevelt.

Walking and Golf Cart Tours, Safari Park, Animals, Byzantine Fortifications, Roman Summer Villa

During your visit, take a private, guided tour on-foot and with golf carts. Explore the safari park, marvel at the animals, and pass by the ruins of Byzantine fortifications and a Roman summer villa dating from the 1st century A.D. Following your tour, some free time is made available to explore the island at your leisure. At the conclusion of your visit, embark your private speedboat for the short ride back to Fazana Village. Upon arrival, re-board your coach for a short drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 383 yards (about 350 metres), at times over uneven and gravel surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat, and 20 steps at the sites visited. Walking in Brijuni National Park is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with back and/or neck problems, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour. A valid driver's license is required to drive the golf cart. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

This is a great experience for those interested in finding out about the secret life of plants and how to use the benefits of nature as well as the ancient beauty and historical landmarks of one of the oldest towns in Europe.

Histria Aromatica Park & Refreshment

Depart the pier for approximately 30-minute drive to Histria Aromatica Park, an original destination in the Istria region as well as abroad, is its unique position and its goals. The main vision of the Park is to present the traditional values and natural heritage not only of Istria but of Croatia as well. This attraction is trying to provide long-term education on the importance of preserving nature resources. Enjoy a guided tour through plantation and garden promenades with Mediterranean autochthonous plants and aromatic herbs, olive groves, vineyards and orchards. Listen to a presentation about using various plant species as food, medicine and cosmetics throughout centuries. Learn about preparation of pitches (fields), planting, seeding, watering and tending plants, harvesting, transport and processing methods: drying plant material, preparation of plant material for further processing in this fantastic location. This is a great experience for those interested in finding out about the secret life of plants and how to use the benefits of nature. After the tour, enjoy refreshment and a dessert made from fresh and seasonal ingredients.

Pula Walking Tour, Roman Amphitheatre, Gate of Hercules, Temple of Augustus, Arch of Sergius

Afterwards continue your journey back to Pula and start your walking tour which offers a unique insight into the 3,000-year-old history of one of the oldest towns in Europe. The city is best known for its many surviving ancient Roman buildings, the most famous of which is its 1st-century amphitheater. Locally-known as the 'Arena', it is the sixth-largest amphitheater in the world. This ancient structure's appearance belies its age and it is still used today for summer film festivals. Your walking tour continues with visits to other notable and well-preserved ancient Roman structures, including the Sergius Arch and the temple to the god Apollo, built in honour of the 1^st Century Roman emperor Caesar Augustus. Along the way, see the Roman city gates and walls and a Byzantine chapel.

City Marketplace

Next, proceed to the colourful and famous City Market. This recently-renovated marketplace reflects the Austro-Hungarian heritage of the residents and attracts people from the nearby villages. After your guided walking tour, you may remain in town and browse the shops at your leisure.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. The tour sequence may vary. Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing, and bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a camera from the ship.

Experience the scenic splendour of the renowned Parenzana Cycling Trail during this invigorating, half-day sightseeing excursion via bicycle.

Rovinj, Istrian Peninsula, Groznjan

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 75-minute drive through the hilltop towns of the Istrian Peninsula en route to Groznjan. Upon arrival, take a short, guided walking tour of this charming Istrian town. World-famous for its great cultural significance, Groznjan is especially popular during the summer months, when its labyrinth of little streets and squares turn into a truly artistic beehive. Summer music academies and artistic, dance, drama and peace activism workshops open under the leadership of well-known experts and teachers, and famous names from music, art and drama. During this time, Groznjan's streets become one great stage, and the sounds of jazz and classical music fill the air. Following your walking tour of Groznjan, some free time is made available to explore the town at your leisure.

Parenzana Cycling Trail

Next, receive your safety and bicycling instructions and equipment, then begin your guided bicycle tour along the Parenzana biking trail. This popular cycling route is named after the famous railroad that once connected Istria with the heartland of Austria-Hungary, i.e. Poreč in Croatia with Trieste in Italy. The railroad brought great prosperity to the local inhabitants, which is why it's mentioned with respect and nostalgic stories to this day. Because of the extraordinary significance of this landmark, the Parenzana Cycling Trail was created, and is also known today as the 'Trail of Health and Friendship' because it connects three countries; Italy, Slovenia and Croatia.

Lush Forests, Flora and Fauna, Massive Rocks, Refreshment

Parenzana's route passes through the tame landscape of Istria, which is home to a wealth of natural beauty that includes diverse plant and wildlife in the lush forests, and deep chasms cut into massive rocks. Cycle along this route to Zavrsje Village, where a comfort and refreshment stop is made. From here, continue on to Livade Village. Upon arrival, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of bicycling (22 kilometers) and a moderate amount of walking for approximately 492 yards (about 450 metres), at times over uneven, gravel, and cobblestone surfaces and inclines. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, and able to ride a bicycle. This tour is not recommended for pregnant guests, guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable sports clothing with flat, closed-toe sport shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Safety helmets and vests are provided, and must be worn the entire time whilst bicycling. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

The best way to visit Rovinj Archipelago and Lim Fjord is by boat, so join this adventure and see the beauties from a different perspective while trying the tasty shellfish of this region. Enjoy a day in the outdoors and view these natural wonders of the region from a RIB boat.

Scenic Drive & Rovinj Walking Tour

Depart Pula for approximately 40-minute scenic drive towards Rovinj. Upon arrival, start your walking tour towards the town square and further on to St. Eufemija Church which is the symbol of this charming town. After passing by the Church of St. Eufemija your guide will continue the tour through the charming little streets and squares showing you the most known sites & museums of this town. Finish your walking at the waterfront where you will board your RIB boat.

RIB Boat, Rovinj Archipelago, Red Island, Swimming

The natural landscape of the Rovinj archipelago and the costline are past of the "Landscapes of Outstanding Value" and one needs to come in order to understand it better. The indented coast, holm oak, Alpine and Bruce pine forests and the special agricultural spaces amaze and capture with their beauties. This protected area stretches from St. John's Cape to Barbariga and encompasses all twenty Rovinj islands and islets and the coastal area up to the distance of 500m from the coastline. Stop will be made at Red Island for swimming with a possibility to visit a small church of St. Nicolas.

Lim Fjord, Oyster & Shellfish Tasting

Continue towards Lim fjord which is one of the most striking natural sites in Istria and represents a sunken canyon valley in karst. It is 10km long, with an average width of 600m and the deepest point of 33m. It is one of the most beautiful fjords outside Norway offering many hidden spots to the ones coming to visit. The water in the fjord is less transparent and less salty than the open sea due to many springs and the temperatures of the water in the fjord fluctuate. The water here also contains a large amount of planktons and oxygen so it provides abundant flora and fauna. The area is a natural hatching site for many fish species but is known for its oysters which even impressed Anthony Bourdain. Here, enjoy oyster and mussel tasting accompanied by a glass of wine and welcome brandy.

Following your refreshment stop, RIB boat will take you back to Rovinj where you will re-board your coach for approximately 40-minute drive back to Pula.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of activity and walking for approximately 1000 metres, at times over uneven surfaces. This tour is not suitable for guests with back and/or neck problems, limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Some guests may find the rib-boat ride intensive as it can be sometimes rough when certain weather conditions prevail. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up, sun protection and bring a towel from the ship. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. Guests must be at least twelve years old to participate on this tour. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore Pula at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area’s highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Pula at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area’s highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.