You may think that there is not much going on in Istria except in the summer, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The spring months offer a variety of interesting events, and the temperatures in March and April are sometimes similar to the pleasant temperatures of June. Moreover, this time of year allows for a peaceful and relaxing vacation without the typical summer crowds. With such a diverse selection of events and activities, you’re sure to find something to your liking.
Zlatni zub – Festival of Laughter and Comedy
Poreč, March 3–27, 2026
As the saying goes, laughter is the best medicine. There will be plenty of it at the Zlatni zub – Festival of Laughter and Comedy in Poreč, which will take place from March 3 to March 27, 2026. Zlatni Zub (The Golden Tooth) is an annual international comedy festival held in Poreč that showcases the best theater performances from Croatia and the broader region.
Accommodation
Villa Ursaria
In a small village called Kadumi, just a few kilometers from Poreč, you will find this modern villa that can accommodate up to 8 people. This villa will pamper you with a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, and a sauna. There is also a covered terrace with a summer kitchen, a barbecue, and a dining table for relaxing evenings in pleasant company.
Villa Melon
This spacious villa is located in a small village around 10 kilometres from Poreč. It can accommodate up to 10 people and boasts an outdoor pool with sun loungers, an infrared sauna and a hot tub. The villa has 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, as well as a 1,000 m² garden and an outdoor seating area, offering plenty of space for evening socialising.
Teranino festival
Bale, March 28–29, 2026
Teranino, an authentic Croatian liqueur made from teran grapes with added sugar, spices, and herbs, is important enough to have earned its own festival. It takes place in the Istrian town of Bale on March 28 and 29, 2026. This festival also offers some of the traditional types of brandy, such as honey brandy. A panel of judges will select the best Teranino, and you can sample them and choose your favorite.
Accommodation
Villa Oliba
The elegant Villa Oliba is the perfect place to stay if you decide to visit the Teranino festival, since it is located in the same town, Bale. This villa can accommodate up to six people and boasts an outdoor pool, covered terrace and barbecue. The surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities to explore southern Istria.
WRC Croatia Rally 2026
Istria, April 9–12, 2026
Some of the biggest names in rallying from around the world will be coming to Istria in April this year. On 10 April, 2026 the drivers will race through the Istrian towns of Vodice, Brest, Motovun, Beram and Cerovlje, among others. Other stages will be held in Gorski Kotar and Karlovac County, as well as along the Adriatic coast. Enjoy watching the world’s best racers perform, but don’t attempt anything similar yourself!
Accommodation
Villa Maria
In Oprtalj, one of the most picturesque towns in Istria, you will be greeted by Villa Maria. This rustic stone villa can accommodate up to six people and is also happy to welcome your pet. Outside, you will find a pool with sun loungers and a covered terrace with a barbecue, perfect for cosy summer picnics.
Istria 100 by UTMB®
Istria, April 9–12, 2026
Test your stamina and endurance at the Istria 100 ultra trail race by UTMB®. Run through old towns, uphill, along the coast, and across various terrains. There are five different trails with five different difficulty levels, ranging from a 21-kilometer white trail for beginners to a 168-kilometer red trail for experienced runners. The starting points are in different Istrian towns: Labin, Buzet, Motovun, and Grožnjan, and the finish line for all trails is in Umag. We can’t promise it will be easy, but we can promise it will be worth it.
Accommodation
Villa Keli
Villa Keli is an attractive property with a modern interior, located near Vižinada. It has three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen, and can accommodate up to 8 people. Outside, you can enjoy a swimming pool, cosy lounge area, barbecue and outdoor gym.
Villa Inga
Villa Inga is located in the small village of Kaštel. This spacious, bright villa has a fully enclosed garden, offering complete privacy. With four bedrooms and four bathrooms, the villa can accommodate up to eight guests. There is also a separate building next to the pool with a fully equipped summer kitchen and a large dining table.
Conclusion
Although we usually associate Istria with summer, the spring months also offer a wide variety of events and activities. The listed events are just a few of the many that take place in Istria and elsewhere in Croatia during the off-season. Take a springtime vacation to Istria and experience it in a whole new light.
