When we think of Umag, tennis is probably the first thing that comes to mind. Fair enough, this summer the tournament once again filled the stands and the town. But once the tennis players pack their bags, Umag remains. That is the Umag we are talking about today.
We talked to colleagues who live in Umag and asked what to see when you are in town, where to eat, and where to go for a day trip nearby.
Umag’s history
The town sits in the northwest of Istria, only about ten kilometers from the Slovenian border. The story begins long ago, back in antiquity. The Romans discovered this area and turned it into their summer residence. On these ancient foundations grew the settlement of Humagum, which is where the town’s present name comes from.
Although tourism is the main branch of economy today, Umag still keeps up agriculture, above all olives, tomatoes and grapes, which have always been grown in the area.
What to see
For a walk around town, we recommend starting at the main square, where the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary stands. After visiting the church, take a stroll through the old town and notice the narrow streets and Venetian facades.
The Umag Town Museum is close, just in case you need a break from walking. After the museum, you can walk to the Umag pier with a beautiful view of the whole town. Make sure to get a photo with Umag’s panorama in the background.
Umag has a lovely new promenade. The promenade is more than two kilometers long and connects different neighbourhoods. If you enjoy an active holiday, the promenade is great for running or cycling by the sea.
Humagum Park is the lungs of the town, a green oasis with a citrus garden, wild herbs and a rose path.
European city of sport
Umag holds the title of European City of Sport, largely thanks to the ATP Croatia Open, which has been played in Umag since 1990. This year’s edition is behind us, but the town’s active spirit lives on all year round, through concerts, exhibitions and races such as the Umag Run.
Where to eat (locals’ recommendation)
For restaurant recommendations we asked our colleague Daniela, who lives in Umag. Here is her report straight from the ground.
- Snack bar Garden: right in the center, a great option for something quick.
- Batak: part of a famous franchise in Croatia, recently opened in Umag, reliable choice for meat dishes.
- Sve Je Domaće: popular fast food spot in town.
Outside town the recommendations are even better:
- Konoba Nono in Petrovija has a garden with farm animals, making it a great choice for families.
- Konoba Buščina will not disappoint when you simply want good food without any fuss.
- Fish restaurant Toni in Zambratija is the address to save if you crave fresh fish.
- Anna’s Garden in Savudrija offers fish and other Istrian specialties. It has one of the most romantic views in the whole area.
What to see nearby
The Sipar archaeological site is only four kilometers away from town, located in the settlement of Katoro. It has the remnants of an ancient Roman settlement. A true little paradise for history enthusiasts!
Be sure to stop by Savudrija too and see the lighthouse, the symbol of this part of the Istrian coast. Notice the grue when you’re walking by the shore, they are traditional wooden boat cranes, a trace of what Savudrija once looked like.
Best time to visit
Umag has a true Mediterranean climate, and the sea is suitable for swimming from May to October (in May it can still be cold since the sea is slowly warming up for summer).
Summer is the liveliest season, with many events such as Umag(o) Summer, concerts and festivals.
If you want to avoid the crowds while still enjoying warm water, June and September are ideal. Spring and Autumn bring pleasant temperatures but there are fewer events and the sea is colder, so it is best to swap swimming for walking.
Where to stay
Umag and its surroundings offer a wide choice of villas with a pool for couples, families and groups of friends. Here we have picked out two, but feel free to browse our full range of villas in Umag.
- Casa Romantica: a pet friendly villa for five people, with a private pool and garden. Ideal for a small family or friends traveling with a pet.
- Villa Bianka: a spacious villa for six people, with a large pool and modern interior, a good option if you are looking for space and luxury.
We hope we have managed to show you Umag the way locals see it. All that is left is to contact us and arrange the details of your holiday in Umag.
