Posted by Umag, Istria, Croatia: An Online Travel Guide for Visitors
The charming coastal town of Umag in Istria, Croatia is known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites and culture. This travel guide provides a detailed overview of what to see and do in Umag, ensuring that visitors have a memorable and enriching experience. Umag is the first coastal town in Istria for tourists arriving from Germany, Austria and Slovenia.
History of Umag
The history of Umag dates back to Roman times, and the old town retains many architectural and cultural relics from that period. The town was an important port and trading centre, attracting various rulers over the centuries, including the Venetians, Austro-Hungarians and Italians. Today Umag combines historic charm with modern attractions.
Nearby: Portoroz and Piran in Slovenia to the north, Novigrad and Porec to the south.
Getting to Umag
Umag is easily accessible from several major cities. The nearest airport is in Pula, about 85 kilometres away. From there you can rent a car, take a bus or book a transfer to Umag. The town is well connected by both road and sea. There are regular bus services from other cities in Croatia and ferry services from Italy. There is no train station.
Boat trips Umag
Umag offers a range of boat trips, from sunset cruises to day trips to neighboring islands and coastal villages. These trips offer a fantastic way to see more of the beautiful Istrian coast. Boat trips to watch dolphins in the Adriatic are also particularly popular among tourists.
A good dolphin watching tour can be booked on the well-known website Getyourguide at this link. Dolphins are particularly easy to see in the evenings. The dolphin watching tour lasts about 2 hours.
You can also book ferries from Umag to Venice online at this link (one-way or day trips). These are not cheap, but if you have never been to Venice, you will certainly find such a tour very interesting.
Tours on ships with glass bottoms are also great. Here you can see the underwater world of the Adriatic particularly well. Link to book a glass bottom tour from Umag.
Another great offer in Umag is a completely different day tour without a ship on the topic of olives and wine: Link to the booking page
Umag Sights
Old Town
The heart of Umag is the Old Town, a picturesque district with narrow, winding streets, historic buildings and charming squares. As you walk around, you will find picturesque cafes, shops and restaurants serving local cuisine.
The central, large square is Trg Slobode (Freedom Square). Here you will also find the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary with the bell tower, the landmark of Umag. The old town is on a peninsula with sea on three sides and access only from the east. There are large parking lots for the many tourists in Umag. Parking is paid in the center, but free a few hundred meters outside.
Umag Promenade and Port
Next to the Old Town on the waterfront is a promenade with a park worth seeing. Around the large dock is a marina with many ships, including some luxury yachts.
Umag Town Museum
Housed in a 14th century tower, Umag Town Museum houses artifacts from Roman, Medieval and Renaissance times. It is a great place to learn about the town’s rich history. The museum is at the tip of the Old Town peninsula. Great museum, well worth a visit.
Walls and Gates
Some of Umag’s old town walls and gates date back to the Middle Ages and are well preserved. A walk along these walls offers insight into the town’s defensive history and panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
Savudrija Lighthouse
Located just a few kilometers from Umag (towards the north), Savudrija Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse still in operation on the Adriatic coast. It was built in 1818 and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding area. Also north of Umag are many beaches with hotels, apartments and large campsites. The area is dominated by tourism in summer.
Beaches Umag
1. Aurora Beach
Aurora Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists. The beach is made up of pebbles and rocks and the water is clear and shallow, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It offers numerous amenities such as sun loungers, umbrellas and a cafe nearby.
2. Canegra Beach
Located in a beautiful bay, Canegra Beach is known for its fine pebbles and crystal clear waters. The beach belongs to a nudist resort but is open to all visitors. It is ideal for a quiet and relaxing day by the sea.
3. Stella Maris Lagoon
Belonging to the Stella Maris Resort, this beach is a mix of pebble and sandy. It is well equipped with restaurants, bars and water sports rentals. This beach is also known for hosting the Tennis ATP Croatia Open, the biggest tennis tournament in the country.
4. Katoro Beach
Located near the resort of Katoro, Katoro Beach is pebbly and rocky with plenty of shade provided by pine trees. The beach has a playground, sports facilities and picnic areas, making it ideal for families.
5. Punta Beach
A popular spot for sunbathing and swimming, Punta Beach is a combination of pebbles and concrete sunbathing areas. The beach has all the necessary facilities and offers a wide range of water activities.
Activities Umag
Water Sports
The crystal clear waters of Umag are great for a variety of water sports, including windsurfing, jet skiing and paddleboarding. Many beaches offer boat rentals and lessons for beginners.
Cycling and Hiking
The surrounding countryside of Istria is ideal for cycling and hiking, with numerous hiking trails taking you through vineyards, olive groves and charming villages. A popular way to explore the area is to rent a bike, but not all roads have bike lanes, and cycling on Croatia’s narrow country roads is not without its risks.
Wine and olive oil tasting
Istria is famous for its wine and olive oil. Several wineries and olive oil producers in the Umag area offer tours and tastings that provide a delicious insight into the local produce.
Fishing trips
Fishing is an integral part of Umag’s heritage. Join a fishing trip with local fishermen to learn traditional techniques and enjoy the day’s fresh catch.
