Where to stay in Rovinj – 6 best areas and the best accommodation in Rovinj

Known for its charming old town, dazzling sea views, and mouthwatering seafood, Rovinj is the perfect blend of history and relaxation. Get ready to wander its cobblestone streets, soak up the sun on its beaches, and indulge in delicious Mediterranean flavors. But first, let’s find you the perfect lodging!

As someone who knows the town like the back of their hand (and frequents it more than they probably should), I’m here to be your trusted navigator through the maze of accommodations and neighborhoods.

You can trust me to lead you to the perfect place for your stay, whether you’re seeking historic charm, seaside luxury, or a secluded island retreat. Let’s dive in and discover your dream getaway in Rovinj!

This guide to accommodation in Rovinj will walk you through:

1. A geographical breakdown of the best areas to stay in Rovinj
2. All the info you need to make an informed decision on the best area for you
3. A selection of the best accommodation options for each area, budget, and type of accommodation

Where to stay in Rovinj – best areas

Rovinj is a relatively compact town, but the suburbs stretch out along the coast and inland, offering several distinct areas to stay, each with its own unique charm and advantages.

Here are the best areas to consider for accommodation in Rovinj:

• Rovinj Old Town is the historic heart of Rovinj with a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and centuries-old buildings. Staying in the Old Town means easy access to the main landmarks and a wide range of bars and restaurants.
• Mulini Area is situated along the waterfront near the harbor offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the bustling marina. This is a quieter area just a short walk from the Old Town and offers easy access to the gorgeous Zlatni Rat beaches.
• Gripole and the outskirts of the town, offer a quieter alternative to the bustling city center while still being within easy reach of Rovinj’s main attractions. Accommodations in this area are mostly privately owned apartments in residential neighborhoods.
• Borik and Monsena are located to the north of Rovinj and offer a mix of pebbly beaches, lush greenery, and recreational facilities. Accommodations in this area cater to families and beach lovers, with options ranging from beachfront hotels and resorts to holiday apartments and campsites.
• Cuvi and Pulari to the south of Rovinj are known for their natural beauty, secluded coves, and pristine beaches. Accommodations in this area offer a peaceful retreat surrounded by pine forests and crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
• Sv. Katarina and Sv. Andrija Islands just off the coast of Rovinj offer a unique island getaway and breathtaking views over Rovinj. The resorts on the islands offer boat charters for easy reach of the town.

Best accommodation in Rovinj

Rovinj Old Town

Best for: Travelers who want to be at the heart of the action, immerse themselves in Rovinj’s history and culture, and enjoy easy access to dining and entertainment options.

Known for: St. Euphemia’s Basilica, Balbi’s Arch, Grisia Street (Artists’ Street)

Rovinj Old Town is the historic heart of Rovinj, characterized by a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and centuries-old buildings. It offers a charming atmosphere with its vibrant colors and lively atmosphere. Staying in the Old Town means immersing yourself in the town’s rich history and culture, with easy access to main landmarks and a wide range of bars and restaurants.

Set on a hilly, mostly car-free peninsula, the Old Town is perfect for those who love to walk and soak up local life and like to be close to a vibrant array of bars, restaurants, and art galleries.

Accommodations in the Old Town range from boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses to tucked-away apartments within historic buildings, ensuring a genuine Rovinj experience.

Mulini area (Harbour)

Best for: Travelers seeking a peaceful retreat with beautiful waterfront views, close proximity to beaches, and easy access to both the Old Town and natural attractions.

Known for: Mulini Beach, Punta Corrente Forest Park (Zlatni Rat), Waterfront promenades and marina views

Nestled along the waterfront near the harbor, the Mulini Area offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the lively marina. Providing a serene alternative to the city center, it’s just a short stroll from the Old Town and grants easy access to the stunning Zlatni Rat beaches.

The area features a charming promenade connecting the old town and Punta Corrente Forest Park, both just a short walk away. Mulini Beach is right at your doorstep, and nearby Zlatni Rat offers more stunning beaches. Punta Corrente Forest Park is perfect for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and swimming. Its convenient location near both town and beaches makes it perfect for travelers seeking both convenience and natural beauty.

Here, you’ll find famous hotels like Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, Hotel Monte Mulini, Hotel Lone Rovinj, and Hotel Eden Rovinj, as well as cozy independent options and multi-story family houses offering apartments for rent, giving you plenty of choices to match your preferences.

Gripole and wider town area (Inland)

Best for: Travelers looking for a quieter, more residential atmosphere, away from the tourist crowds, and those who prefer self-catering accommodations.

Known for: Residential neighborhoods, Walking trails and scenic viewpoints

Gripole and the outskirts offer a peaceful escape from the busy city center while still close to Rovinj’s attractions. The wider town area is a mix of newer apartment buildings and family houses, all within walking distance of the old town and beaches.

It’s quieter than the old town, with fewer tourists, more residential areas, and fewer bustling bars and restaurants.

You won’t find large hotels here, just apartment rentals and a few small B&Bs. Choose between apartments in buildings or private houses, ensuring you have parking if you’re driving.

Borik and Monsena (North)

Best for: Families, beach lovers, and those seeking a wide range of recreational activities and amenities near the coast.

Known for: Borik Beach, Monsena Beach, FKK beaches, Water sports activities, Walking trails, Forts and bunkers, Punta Corrente Forest Park (Zlatni Rat)

Stretching from the old town to Amarin Resort and Valsaline camping in the north, this area is popular with tourists, although slightly less developed compared to the southern region.

However, Borik and Monsena boast lovely views of Rovinj’s old town and an intriguing coastline with several pleasant pebble beaches. There are plenty of green areas, walking trails and some interesting ruins worth exploring.

There is no direct promenade to the old town, which means you’ll have to walk along the main street, or by car, bus, or taxi boat.

Accommodations here cater to families and beach enthusiasts, ranging from beachfront hotels and resorts to holiday apartments and campsites.

Cuvi and Pulari (South)

Best for: Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, with easy access to scenic beaches and walking trails.

Known for: Cuvi Beach, Pulari Beach, Scenic walking trails, Secluded coves for swimming and snorkeling

Cuvi and Pulari, located south of Rovinj, offer a peaceful getaway surrounded by pine trees. Accommodations range from guesthouses to campsites. The camps are mostly located on the beach while private accommodations are a short walk inland.

Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil retreat, Cuvi and Pulari offer easy access to scenic beaches and walking trails.

Islands Sv. Katarina and Sv. Andrija

Best for: Those seeking a secluded island escape in well equipped resorts, breathtaking views, and a range of outdoor activities, with convenient access to Rovinj via boat charters.

Known for: Scenic views of Rovinj and the Adriatic Sea, Island beaches and walking trails, Water sports activities, Resort amenities and dining options

Just a stone’s throw from the coast of Rovinj lie the enchanting islands of Sv. Katarina and Sv. Andrija, offering a tranquil retreat and unparalleled vistas of the town. The islands are easily accessible by boat charters from the mainland.

Accommodations on Sv. Katarina and Sv. Andrija are all bigger resorts providing incredible amenities and dining options, plenty of activities, spas and sports centers.

Ideal for those seeking tranquility and outdoor activities, Sv. Katarina and Sv. Andrija provide secluded island retreats with convenient access to Rovinj.

How many days in Rovinj?

Rovinj Old Town is tiny and can be explored in just a few hours. However, if you’d like to delve deeper into the cuisine and relax at the beach, you’ll need at least one full day. With more than one day in Rovinj, you’ll be able to do some of the tours mentioned above and explore beyond the city.

Getting to Rovinj

• By Air: The nearest airports are Pula Airport (PUY), approximately 40 km away, and Rijeka Airport (RJK), around 110 km away. From there, you can rent a car or take this private transfer to Rovinj.
• By Car: Rovinj is accessible via the A8 highway if you’re coming from the north or the A9 highway if you’re coming from the south. If you’re renting a car, keep in mind that the old town is closed to traffic but parking is available nearby.
• By Public Transport: Rovinj is served by bus routes connecting it to major cities in Croatia and neighboring countries. Buses operate regularly, making it convenient to travel to and from the town.

Getting around Rovinj

Getting around Rovinj is easy and convenient, thanks to its compact size and well-connected transportation options. Here’s how you can navigate the town:

• On Foot: Rovinj’s charming old town is pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to explore its narrow streets, historic sites, and waterfront promenade at a leisurely pace.
• Bicycle: Renting a bike is a popular way to explore Rovinj and its surrounding areas. There are several bike rental shops in town, offering a variety of options for all ages and skill levels.
• Public Transport: Rovinj has a reliable bus service that connects the town with nearby destinations. You can purchase tickets at local kiosks or on board the bus.
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Rovinj and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They offer a convenient way to travel short distances or reach destinations outside the town center.
• Boat: During the summer months, water taxis operate in Rovinj, providing transportation to nearby islands and coastal areas. This scenic mode of transport offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Best time to visit Rovinj

The best time to visit Rovinj is in the shoulder season which runs April till mid-June, and September to October. This is when the crowds are manageable, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the prices more affordable. If you visit in Autumn you’ll also have the benefit of the warmer sea.

As a rule of thumb, I would advise you to avoid Croatia in the peak of summer. It just gets too hot, too crowded, and too expensive. You’ll have a much better experience visiting in late spring or early Autumn.

Is Rovinj worth visiting?

Rovinj is a charming little town and absolutely worth a stop when exploring the Istrian peninsula.

Planning a trip to Croatia?

Croatia is a stunning country with countless gorgeous islands, charming roman towns, beautiful nature, and delicious food. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of Croatia travel guides. And for an easy plug & play solution make sure to check out my Croatia itinerary (coming soon).