Villa Runko

Welcome to Labin

Labin, located on a hilltop in eastern Istria, is a town that combines a rich historical legacy with a thriving cultural scene. Overlooking the Adriatic Sea and the nearby coastal resort of Rabac, Labin offers visitors a mix of historical exploration, artistic expression, and scenic beauty.

Historical Center

Labin’s old town is a well-preserved example of Istrian medieval architecture. Its cobblestone streets are lined with colorful buildings that reflect Venetian influence, a reminder of the town's history under the Republic of Venice. Key landmarks include the Loggia, a 16th-century gathering place, and the Town Gate of St. Flor, which marks the entrance to the historic center.

The Parish Church of the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with its ornate baroque interior, stands as a testament to the town's religious heritage. Visitors can also explore the remnants of the town's defensive walls and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline from the town’s elevated position.

Cultural Heritage

Labin has a long history of mining, which played a vital role in its development. The Labin Mining Museum, located in a former mine, offers insights into this aspect of the town’s past, with exhibits on mining life and an underground replica of a coal mine.

The town is also known for its vibrant art scene. Labin is home to numerous galleries and art studios, where visitors can view and purchase works by local artists. The Labin Art Republic, a summer cultural festival, features exhibitions, performances, and workshops that highlight the town’s creative energy.

Nature

Labin’s location near the sea and its surrounding countryside provides plenty of options for outdoor activities. A short drive away, Rabac offers access to pebble beaches and clear waters, ideal for swimming and water sports.

Inland, the Sentona Trail leads hikers through forests, valleys, and waterfalls, connecting Labin to Rabac. The trail is named after the ancient goddess of travelers, adding a layer of cultural significance to the natural experience.

Activities and Experiences

Labin offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy:

• Historical Tours: Guided tours of the old town and its landmarks provide a deeper understanding of Labin's past.

• Culinary Experiences: Local taverns and restaurants serve Istrian specialties, including truffles, seafood, and wines.

• Art and Culture: Visitors can explore galleries, attend cultural events, or join workshops to learn about local crafts.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Labin’s mix of history, culture, and nature makes it a welcoming destination for families. The nearby beaches of Rabac offer child-friendly activities, while the town’s pedestrian-friendly streets are ideal for exploring with younger visitors.

A Town of Contrasts

Labin's unique blend of historical charm and modern creativity makes it a distinctive destination in Istria. Whether exploring its medieval streets, discovering its mining heritage, or enjoying the beauty of its natural surroundings, visitors to Labin will find a town that bridges the past and present in a compelling way.

Welcome to Istria! To ensure a safe and pleasant stay, here’s a quick guide to essential services and emergency contacts.

Emergency phone numbers

• 112 – General Emergency Assistance (24/7, multilingual)
• 192 – Police
• 193 – Fire Department
• 194 – Ambulance

Lost or Stolen Documents

If you lose your documents or suspect theft, notify the local police department. If navigating the town’s charming streets leaves you disoriented, online maps can help you locate the nearest police station.

Embassy and Consular Services

Most embassies in Croatia are in Zagreb, and some of them are also closer to Istria region. Here are a few embasies in Croatia and consulates closest to the Istrian region:

• Austria - Consulate of the Republic of Austria to the Republic of Croatia, Rijeka. e-mail: konzulat.republike.austrije@ri.t-com.hr, phone: +385 51 338 554
• Czech Republic - Embassy of the Czech Republic to the Republic of Croatia, email: zagreb@embassy.mzv.cz, phone: +385 1 617 72-46
• Denmark - Embassy of the Kingdom of Denmark to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: zagamb@um.dk, phone: +385 1 49 24 530
• Germany – Consulate of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Republic of Croatia Pula, e-mail pula@hk-diplo.de, phone: +385 52 520 240
• Hungary - Embassy of Hungary to the Republic of Croatia, Zagreb, e-mail: mission.zgb@mfa.gov.hu, phone: +385 1 48 90 900
• Italy – Consulate General of Italy in Rijeka: Assistance for Italian nationals and other consular services. e-mail: cons.fiume@esteri.it, phone +38551355201
• Poland - Embassy of the Republic of Poland to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: hrzagamb@msz.gov.pl, phone: +385 1 48 99 444
• Slovakia - Embassy of the Slovak Republic to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: emb.zagreb@mzv.sk, phone: +385 1 48 77 070
• Slovenia - Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: consular.zagreb@gov.si, phone: +385 1 631 10 00
• Switzerland - Embassy of the Swiss Confederation to the Republic of Croatia, e-mail: zagreb@eda.admin.ch, phone: +385 1 48 78 800

For a comprehensive list of diplomatic missions in Croatia, visit Embassy Worldwide.

Hospitals and Pharmacies

For medical emergencies, head to:

• General Hospital Pula (Opća bolnica Pula) – The main hospital in the Istrian region, located about 40 km from Rovinj.
• Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka (Klinički bolnički centar Rijeka) – A large hospital in Rijeka, providing advanced care and specialized medical treatments.

Both facilities have 24/7 emergency departments. For non-urgent medical needs, pharmacies (Ljekarne) are widely available across Istria.

Roadside Assistance

If your vehicle breaks down or you encounter a road issue, contact HAK (Croatian Automobile Club) at 1987 .

How to Move Around

Istria is filled with countless transportation ways that let you discover its quaint towns, striking countryside, and picturesque coastlines:

• Buses: You'll find intercity buses linking significant locations like Rovinj, Poreč, and Umag. Buses in Istria are both cheap and dependable, making them a favored option for intra-city travel.
• Car rentals: If you're keen on sniffing out the rural beauty of Istria, trailing through vineyards or visiting hilltop hamlets like Motovun and Grožnjan, renting a car is your best bet. The roads are well-kept and distances manageable.
• Cycling: Istria is a heaven for cyclists! Witness lovely landscapes and age-old sites on marked trails such as the Parenzana route.
• Taxis and ride-sharing apps: Taxis are in larger towns while ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt service certain regions ensuring an easy commute.
• Walking: Breathe in the simplicity and cultural richness of compact areas particularly within Rovinj  and Poreč – best viewed at a walker's pace.

Useful Tips

• Currency: Croatia uses the Euro (EUR).
• Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn are ideal for enjoying Istria’s charm without peak-season crowds.
• Tap water: Safe and drinkable! Feel free to refill your bottle.
• Tipping: While not mandatory, a 5-10% tip or rounding up the bill is appreciated.
• Quiet hours: From 10 pm to 6 am, Istria follows a tranquility rule. Please respect the peace.