Rabac: A Popular Resort Once a Fishing Village

If you are looking for an ideal place for a summer vacation in Croatia, you should consider Rabac. This popular resort, lined by crystal-clear sea and picturesque green hills, is nicknamed the Pearl of Kvarner. Here you will find everything that makes for a wonderful holiday: pebble beaches, stunning nature, excellent Mediterranean cuisine, and historical monuments in nearby Labin.

Where is Rabac and How to Get There?

Rabac is located in a bay of the same name on the southeastern coast of Istria, near Labin (6 km southeast). The bay was formed by the flooding of the lower course of the Rabac stream. Rabac is about 50 km from Pula, the largest city in Istria, where there is an international airport. From Pula, you can reach Rabac by bus or car via the E751 road. Another option is to take a train to Rijeka (about 70 km north of Rabac) and continue by bus or car. Most tourists choose to travel by car, as it is an 8-hour drive from the Czech Republic to Istria.

The best time to visit Rabac is from June to September when the weather is sunny and warm and the sea is pleasant for swimming. The average air temperature in summer is around 25°C and the sea temperature is around 23°C. During this time, various cultural and entertainment events also take place, such as the Rabac Open Air Festival or Labin Art Republic.

Rabac (Istria - Croatia)

History of Rabac

Rabac has a rich and interesting history that dates back to ancient times. The first mention of Rabac dates back to 45 BC when it was part of the Roman province of Illyricum. At that time, Rabac was a small fishing village with a few houses and the church of St. Justus. Over the centuries, Rabac was under the rule of various powers, such as the Byzantines, Venetians, Habsburgs, and Napoleon.

In the 19th century, Rabac began to gain prominence as a tourist resort due to its beautiful nature and clean sea. The first tourist was the English traveler Richard Francis Burton, who visited Rabac in 1876 and wrote a commendatory report about it. Since then, more visitors from all over Europe, especially from Austria-Hungary, began to flock to Rabac.

In the 20th century, Rabac became one of the most popular resorts in Kvarner, with many hotels, villas, and apartments built. In 1953, it was declared a climatic spa town, and in 1963, the first hotel with a pool, Hotel Flamingo (today Valamar Sanfior Hotel & Casa), was opened. In 1970, the famous American actor Kirk Douglas visited Rabac.

Rabac (Istria - Croatia)

What to See and Do in Rabac?

Rabac offers many opportunities to enjoy your vacation according to your preferences. Here are some of the possible activities:

  • Swimming and sunbathing on one of the many pebble beaches with blue flags, which are ideal for families with children and water sports enthusiasts. Among the most beautiful beaches are Plaža Girandella, Rabac, and Plaža Maslinica.
  • Walking along the Lungomare coastal promenade, which connects different parts of Rabac and offers stunning views of the sea and the islands of Cres and Lošinj.
  • Visiting the historic town of Labin, situated on a hill above Rabac, known for its medieval monuments, such as the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the town hall, and the Fortica fortress. In Labin, you can also visit the mining museum or the art gallery.
  • Taking a boat trip around the surrounding islands or coastal towns, such as Pula, Rovinj, or Opatija. On the boat, you can admire the beauty of the Adriatic Sea and the underwater world full of colorful fish and corals.
  • Cycling or hiking in the surrounding hills and forests, where there are many interesting trails with beautiful views of the landscape and the sea. You can also visit the nearby Učka National Park or the Skitača Nature Park.
  • Enjoying fun and relaxation in one of the many bars, clubs, or restaurants in Rabac, where you can indulge in delicious food, drinks, or music. Popular places include The Beat Beach Club, Movie Lounge Bar, Perla, or Ristorante Nostromo.
Rabac (Istria - Croatia)


Additional Tips for Trips Around Istria

Istria is a beautiful peninsula full of history, culture, and nature. If you have the time and desire to explore more of this area, we recommend visiting these destinations:

  • Pula: The largest city in Istria with a rich Roman history and impressive monuments such as the amphitheater, the Temple of Augustus, or the Arch of the Sergii. Pula is also known for its summer film festival, a variety of restaurants, and a shopping center.
  • Rovinj: One of the most picturesque and romantic towns on the coast of Istria, with narrow streets, colorful houses, and the dominant Basilica of St. Euphemia. Rovinj is also surrounded by beautiful islands and bays, where you can enjoy swimming and diving.
  • Motovun: A medieval town on top of a hill offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. Motovun is famous for its production of wine and truffles, considered the best in Europe. An international film festival is held here every year.
  • Poreč: An ancient city with a long tradition of tourism and culture. Poreč is known for its 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Poreč also offers many opportunities for sports and entertainment, such as water parks, golf courses, and discos.
  • Hum: The smallest town in the world with only 30 inhabitants. Hum is part of the so-called Glagolitic Alley, connecting various places with monuments of the old Slavic script Glagolitic. In Hum, you can visit the Church of St. Jerome, the Glagolitic Museum, or taste the typical liqueur biska.

I hope I have inspired you to visit Rabac and Istria, and that you will enjoy an unforgettable vacation there.

Location: Rabac, Chorvatsko

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