In the green heart of Istria, a medieval town crowns a steep hill above a valley of vineyards and forests. Stone walls circle its summit, and on misty mornings, it seems to float above the clouds. This is Motovun, one of the most beautiful hilltop towns in Croatia. In this guide, you will discover what to see, how to get there and when to visit.
Quick Facts About Motovun, Croatia
| Country | Croatia |
| Region | Central Istria |
| Known For | Medieval walls, truffles, wine and its film festival |
| UNESCO Status | Not listed |
| Founded | Medieval town on an ancient hilltop site |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October |
| Time Needed | Half a day to one day |
| Continent | Europe |
Where Is Motovun, Croatia?
Motovun lies in central Istria, in western Croatia. In fact, the town sits on a hill about 277 meters above the valley of the Mirna River.
Because of its position, it overlooks a wide landscape of vineyards, fields and forests. As a result, the views from its walls are among the finest in Istria.
Why Visit Motovun, Croatia?
First of all, Motovun is wonderfully picturesque. Its medieval walls, towers and gates still stand, and the old town is full of stone houses and narrow lanes.
In addition, the town is famous for truffles. Indeed, the Motovun forest below the hill is known for both black and white truffles.
Finally, Motovun is a great base for exploring Istria. For example, wineries, villages and cycling trails are all close by.
Exploring the Old Town of Motovun
The old town is small and easy to explore on foot. However, the climb up the hill is steep, so take your time.
The Town Walls
The medieval walls circle the top of the hill. Today, they also serve as a walkway with sweeping views over Istria. In particular, sunset is a magical time to walk them.
St Stephen’s Church
St Stephen’s Church stands on the main square. Builders completed it in the early 17th century, probably following sketches by the famous architect Andrea Palladio. Nearby, a tall bell tower rises above the rooftops.
Streets and Squares
Beyond the main square, narrow lanes wind between stone houses and colorful facades. Meanwhile, small cafes and shops sell local wine, olive oil and truffle products.
Truffles and Wine
Motovun is at the center of one of Croatia’s most famous food regions.
Truffle Hunting
The Motovun forest, across the river from the town, is known for black and white truffles. Local hunters still use trained dogs to find them. In fact, joining a truffle hunt is one of the most popular experiences in the area.
Tasting Truffles
Many restaurants also serve dishes with fresh truffles, such as pasta and omelets. Therefore, be sure to try them during your visit.
Truffle Season
White truffles are usually at their best in autumn. Consequently, this is the most exciting time for food lovers.
Istrian Wine
The hillsides around Motovun are planted with Teran and Malvazija grapes. Similarly, many family wineries in the area welcome visitors for tastings.
Beyond the Old Town
The countryside around Motovun is also perfect for active travelers.
The Parenzana Trail
Between 1902 and 1935, a narrow-gauge railway called the Parenzana ran from Trieste to Poreč and passed below the town. Today, much of the old route is a popular cycling and walking trail.
Motovun Film Festival
Since 1999, Motovun has hosted an international film festival focused on independent and avant-garde films. During the festival, the small town fills with visitors.
One Historical Fact About Motovun, Croatia
Long before the medieval town, Celts and Illyrians built fortresses on this hilltop. Later, in 1278, Venice took control of Motovun. Interestingly, the racing driver Mario Andretti was born here in 1940.
How to Get to Motovun, Croatia
In general, Motovun is easiest to reach by car.
- By car: Driving lets you explore the hill towns and wineries of Istria at your own pace. Park at the base of the old town and walk up.
- By bus: Local buses connect Motovun with other towns in Istria, though services can be limited.
- By air: The nearest airport is Pula.
Best Time to Visit Motovun, Croatia
The best time to visit is from May to October. During these months, the weather is warm and the countryside is green.
In particular, autumn is ideal for truffle lovers and wine tasting. In contrast, summer brings the film festival and more visitors, while winter is quiet and often misty.
Is Motovun, Croatia Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Motovun combines medieval charm, spectacular views and some of the best food in Croatia. Moreover, it is easy to combine with other towns in Istria.
For food lovers and fans of hilltop towns, it is a must. Therefore, it deserves a place on any trip to Istria.
Final Thoughts
Motovun is a town of stone walls, truffles and endless views. Walk the walls at sunset, taste the local truffles and sip a glass of Teran. Above all, take your time and enjoy the slow pace of Istria. If you love historic towns along the Adriatic, you may also enjoy our guides to Rovinj and Kotor.
Planning a longer trip? You can also pair this visit with our guides to Rovinj, Piran and Kotor.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
- Motovun From the South: Photo by Aconcagua via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
- Rooftops and Valley: Photo by Dmitry Sokolov via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
- Church and Bell Tower: Photo by Aconcagua via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
- On the Town Walls: Photo by Dguendel via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
- Valley Below the Town: Photo by shveik1971 via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
- Colorful Old Houses: Photo by Jernej Furman via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)