Villas in Istria

Pula Airport is the main international gateway to Istria and the most convenient arrival point for many villas across the peninsula. Located around 5 km from Pula city centre, it welcomes scheduled, low-cost and charter services from a range of European destinations. Many international routes operate during the spring and summer season rather than throughout the year, with airlines, departure airports and flight frequencies changing between travel periods. Travellers should therefore check the latest schedule for their chosen dates before arranging the rest of their journey.

The most suitable airport may also depend on where your villa is located. Pula Airport is particularly convenient for stays in southern Istria and around Pula, while visitors travelling to Rovinj, Poreč, Motovun or the northern peninsula may also find flights to Trieste, Venice, Treviso, Ljubljana, Rijeka or Zagreb useful. From the airport, onward travel can be arranged by rental car, taxi, private transfer or available public transport, although services and journey times vary by destination.

Driving in Istria is relatively straightforward, as long as you follow a few local rules. You need to be at least 21 to rent a car, and most rental companies also require that you have held your driver’s license for at least one year.

In Croatia, you drive on the right-hand side, and speed limits are clearly posted in towns, on open roads, and on highways. Seat belts are compulsory, and using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free device.

Istria’s roads are generally well maintained, but coastal routes and country roads can be narrow and winding, so extra care is advised. Most rental cars include GPS or allow easy use of smartphone navigation, which makes exploring the peninsula’s towns, beaches, and countryside much easier.

Seasonal passenger ferry services can provide a scenic way to reach Istria from Venice, with selected sailings operating to ports such as Pula, Rovinj and Poreč during parts of the year. These services are generally aimed at foot passengers rather than travellers bringing a car, making them most useful for visitors who plan to arrange a rental vehicle, taxi or transfer after arriving in Istria.

Routes, departure days and operating periods can change between seasons, and not every port is served throughout the full travel period. Journey options may also vary according to demand, weather conditions and the ferry operator’s timetable. Travellers should check the latest schedule for their chosen dates before booking onward transport or accommodation around a particular arrival port. Rovinj and Poreč are convenient for stays on Istria’s western coast, while Pula is better placed for villas in the south of the peninsula.

The best way to get from the airport to your villa in Istria is by car, although there are several other ways to reach your accommodation and get around the region.

Your flight will arrive at Pula Airport (the main airport for southern Istria) or Rijeka Airport in the north. From there, you can collect a pre-booked hire car, take a taxi, arrange a private transfer, or use public transport to reach your villa. Buses are available but aren’t ideal if you have a lot of luggage.

By car

If you opt to hire a car, it’s best to book online before you travel. Rental companies operate from both airports, allowing you to pick up your vehicle on arrival and drop it off before departure. Some providers will even deliver the car to your villa and collect it afterward.

To hire a car in Croatia, you need a valid driver’s license, usually be at least 21, and meet any rental company age requirements. Cars drive on the right-hand side, seat belts are compulsory, and roads can be narrow and winding along the coast. GPS navigation is highly recommended to make exploring towns, beaches, and countryside much easier.

By taxi

Taxis in Istria provide a convenient and hassle-free way to reach your villa. Official taxis are available outside airport terminals, and fares are typically metered or agreed in advance. The journey from Pula Airport to coastal towns like Rovinj or Poreč takes around 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.

By private transfer

Private transfers can be arranged in advance, offering door-to-door service with options ranging from standard cars and minivans to VIP vehicles. This is a stress-free option, particularly after a long flight, and is often cheaper than taking a taxi for larger groups.

By bus

Buses run regularly from Pula and Rijeka airports to major towns in Istria, including Rovinj, Poreč, and Novigrad. They are inexpensive and reliable but may not be ideal for travelers with heavy luggage, as some routes require a short walk or connection in town. Bus tickets are usually purchased on board or at kiosks in the terminal.