Villa Sara

Welcome to Vrsar

Vrsar is a charming seaside town located in Istria, just 9 kilometers south of the popular tourist destination Poreč. Known historically as Orsera, Vrsar has a rich heritage dating back to ancient times, with evidence of habitation from the Histri and Liburni tribes, and later Roman influence.

Historical Center

Perched on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Vrsar's historic center features narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful Mediterranean houses. The Church of St. Martin, with its impressive 40-meter bell tower, is a highlight and offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline. The bell tower, built in 1991, replaces an earlier structure that was demolished in the 1920s.

Cultural Heritage

Vrsar is home to several historical sites, including Vrsar Castle, which served as the residence for the Bishop of Poreč until 1778. Although it is now a private residence, its imposing structure remains a significant part of the town's skyline. Visitors can also explore remnants of the old town walls and gates that once protected this medieval settlement.

Nature

One of Vrsar's most notable natural attractions is the Lim Channel, often referred to as Lim Fjord. This stunning 12-kilometer-long submerged canyon is surrounded by lush greenery and offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and hiking. The area is rich in biodiversity, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Activities and Experiences

For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture and activities, Vrsar offers a variety of options:

• Sailing and Water Sports: The town's marina provides access to boat rentals for exploring the nearby islands and coves.

• Dining: Gastronomy enthusiasts can indulge in Istrian specialties such as truffles, prosciutto, and fresh seafood at numerous local restaurants.

• Outdoor Adventures: Visitors can enjoy hiking trails around the Lim Channel or relax on Vrsar's pebbly beaches.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Families will find plenty to do in Vrsar. The nearby Dinopark Funtana, features life-size dinosaur replicas that are sure to delight children of all ages.

Vrsar is not just a picturesque coastal town; it is a destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With its welcoming atmosphere, stunning views, and diverse activities, Vrsar stands out as a hidden gem on the Istrian coast, perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

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.