Brijuni National Park Guide: A Journey Through Nature and History
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Plan your trip to Brijuni National Park—explore Roman ruins, safari animals, Tito’s legacy, and tranquil beaches in this Istrian island paradise.
Brijuni National Park is one of Croatia’s most fascinating destinations—a group of islands where wild nature, deep history, and subtle glamour come together. Located just off the Istrian coast of the Adriatic Sea near Fažana, the Brijuni archipelago has been everything from a Roman retreat to a royal summer escape. Today, it’s a national park offering a peaceful haven with ancient ruins, a unique safari park, untouched landscapes, and a glimpse into the private world of President Tito. Whether you’re coming for a day trip or planning to stay longer, Brijuni promises a truly special experience.
Brijuni National Park is located just off the southwestern coast of Istria, and the only way to reach it is by boat from the town of Fažana, near Pula.
🚤 By Boat from Fažana
The official Brijuni National Park boat departs from Fažana several times a day, with tickets that include both the boat ride and park entrance. The journey takes around 15–20 minutes and brings you to Veli Brijun, the main island open to visitors.
You can purchase tickets at the National Park Info Center in Fažana or online via the Brijuni National Park website. During the summer season, it’s a good idea to book in advance, especially if you want a guided tour or electric car rental.
Boat ticket + park entry (regular day visit): approx. €35 per adult
Children & students: discounted rates available
Guided tours, bikes, golf carts: extra fee
🚗 Getting to Fažana
By Car: Fažana is just a 10-minute drive from Pula. Paid parking is available near the harbor.
By Bus: Regular local buses connect Pula and Fažana.
By Plane: The nearest airport is Pula Airport (PUY), just 15 km away.
✨ Tip: If you’re staying in Pula, consider spending the morning at the Roman amphitheater, then head to Fažana for your Brijuni adventure.
🏛️ What to See & Do in Brijuni National Park
Brijuni may be small in size, but it’s packed with fascinating things to see and do—from ancient ruins and exotic animals to presidential secrets and Mediterranean serenity.
Historic Sights & Cultural Heritage
Brijuni has been inhabited for millennia, and the traces of its long and fascinating past are scattered all over the island:
Visit the Roman Ruins at Verige Bay
Step back in time at the archaeological site of Verige Bay, where the remains of a luxurious Roman villa rustica stretch along the shore. The mosaic floors, bathing complexes, and temples to Roman gods offer a glimpse into ancient luxury island life.
Byzantine Castrum
This sprawling archaeological site is one of the most intriguing historical areas on Brijuni. Originally built during Late Antiquity, the castrum served as a fortified settlement strategically positioned in the heart of the island.
🏛️ Tour Tito’s Residence & Museums
Tito’s time on Brijuni left a grand legacy:
The Tito Museum displays his personal photos, gifts from dignitaries, and old film footage of state visits.
You can also tour his former residence, which remains largely untouched and filled with Cold War-era charm.
Don’t miss the exhibit of stuffed animals, gifts from abroad, now part of Brijuni’s curious past.
Visit also:
Illyrian Gradina – Remnants of a prehistoric hillfort settlement overlooking the sea.
Early Christian Basilicas & Churches – Including St. Mary’s Church from the Knights Templar era and several medieval chapels hidden in the forest.
Venetian Stoneworks & Ruins – Elegant but crumbling pieces of Brijuni’s late medieval phase.
Austro-Hungarian Villas – Don’t miss Kupelwieser’s Villa and the Grand Hotel, relics of the island’s golden age as a 19th-century health resort.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Encounters
Despite its rich history, Brijuni is, above all, a national park—and nature truly shines here:
🦓 Explore the Brijuni Safari Park
One of Brijuni’s most unique attractions is its Safari Park, home to animals gifted to President Tito by world leaders. Expect to see zebras, Indian sacred cows, llamas, Somali sheep, and elephants—all roaming spacious enclosures on Veli Brijun.
🦖 Discover the Dinosaur Footprints
Yes, dinosaurs once walked here! There are over 200 dinosaur footprints embedded in the rocks on the coast of Veliki Brijun and surrounding islets. The best-marked ones can be found at Cape Ploče.
Explore too:
Soline Lakes – A peaceful area of saltwater lakes surrounded by birdlife and coastal vegetation.
Zelenikovac Peninsula – A raw, rocky forested area perfect for scenic walks away from the main paths.
Botanical Garden – Home to over 170 species of Mediterranean, tropical, and exotic plants.
Wildlife Sightseeing – Mouflons, fallow deer, rabbits, and peacocks roam freely across the island’s meadows and woods.
Underwater Snorkeling Trail – Near Verige Bay, an educational snorkel route lets you explore Brijuni’s marine life and submerged Roman remains.
🌟 Unique Brijuni Experiences
Beyond its history and nature, Brijuni has a charm of its own—quiet, slow, and a bit surreal:
🚶♀️ Stroll or Bike Through Scenic Trails
There’s no better way to absorb Brijuni’s peaceful atmosphere than on foot or by bicycle. Rent a bike or electric golf cart and cruise past olive groves, ancient trees, Roman ruins, and wide lawns where deer and mouflon wander freely.
⛳ Play a Round of Golf
Brijuni boasts one of the oldest golf courses in Europe, originally designed for aristocrats and royals. The 18-hole course blends seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty—and you’re likely to spot deer grazing on the fairway.
🏖️ Swim & Relax on Quiet Beaches
While Brijuni isn’t a beach destination in the classic sense, there are several rocky and pebble coves where you can swim in clear turquoise water. Saluga Bay is one of the most popular for a peaceful dip surrounded by nature.
🛥️ Take a Boat Trip Around the Archipelago
The National Park includes 14 islands, but only Veli Brijun is open to the public. Still, you can admire the others by taking a panoramic boat tour, often included in guided visits or available by private charter.
Fish-shaped islet
🌿 Visit the 1600-Year-Old Olive Tree
Don’t miss the ancient olive tree, believed to be more than 1,600 years old. It’s still bearing fruit and stands as a living symbol of Brijuni’s long and layered history.
🚲 Getting Around Brijuni National Park
Once you arrive on Veli Brijun, the main island open to visitors, getting around is both easy and enjoyable thanks to the island’s eco-friendly transportation options. There are no personal cars allowed—everything is designed to preserve the natural beauty and calm of the park.
🚶 On Foot
The best way to truly soak in the atmosphere is by walking. Well-marked paths lead you through pine forests, past archaeological sites, the safari park, and peaceful coves. Most main attractions are within walking distance from the port.
🚲 By Bicycle
Bikes are available for rent at the port and are a popular way to explore more of the island at your own pace. Brijuni’s flat terrain makes cycling easy and relaxing, even on a hot summer day.
Rental price: approx. €4–€5 per hour
Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle—there are drinking fountains on the island!
🚗 Electric Car (Golf Cart)
If you want to see the whole island comfortably, especially with kids or elderly visitors, electric golf carts are a fun option.
Seats 4–6 people
Rental price: around €40 per hour
Perfect for exploring the island’s outer edges or covering more ground in a short time.
🚃 Electric Tourist Train
The electric train tour is part of the guided excursion and offers a relaxed ride through the island’s highlights, including the safari park, Roman ruins, and scenic coastal spots. Great for first-time visitors and families.
Included in some guided tour tickets
Multilingual audio guide available during peak season
✨ Good to Know: There’s no public transport or taxis on Brijuni—everything is part of the national park’s system. Whether you choose to walk, pedal, or ride, every method lets you enjoy the serenity and charm of this unique island escape.
⏳ How Much Time Do You Need for Brijuni?
Don’t rush Brijuni. This isn’t a place to check off quickly—it’s a destination best savored slowly.
Set aside at least one full day to explore Veli Brijun, the main island open to visitors. The park is rich in natural beauty, historical treasures, and unique experiences, and you’ll want time to enjoy them all without feeling hurried.
Start your day early with the morning boat from Fažana, then spend your time strolling or cycling through pine-scented trails, visiting the Roman ruins, marveling at exotic animals in the safari park, and relaxing by the quiet coves. Whether you take a guided tour or explore independently, Brijuni rewards a slow pace.
If you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply enjoy peaceful landscapes, you might even consider staying overnight at one of the island hotels—waking up in a national park is a rare treat!
🧭 Tip: If you’re visiting in summer, consider a midweek trip to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
In short: don’t spare on time—Brijuni is worth the full day.
🍽️ Where to Eat, Drink & Relax in Brijuni
While Brijuni is first and foremost a natural and historical escape, it also offers a touch of comfort with a handful of peaceful spots to dine, sip, and unwind—always in harmony with the tranquil setting of the island.
🥂 Dining on Veli Brijun
The island has a small selection of restaurants and cafés, all operated under the park’s management and designed to blend into the environment without overwhelming it. The main place to eat is the “Galija” Restaurant, located near the harbor. It offers a pleasant sea-view terrace and serves classic Mediterranean cuisine with an Istrian twist—think grilled fish, seafood risotto, local wine, and fresh seasonal salads.
For a more casual option, the “Neptun Café” near Hotel Neptun is great for a coffee, a refreshing drink, or a light lunch like pasta, sandwiches, and ice cream. During the summer season, snack bars open at select swimming and walking areas, where you can grab bottled water, drinks, or a simple snack between adventures.
🍷 Tip: Don’t miss a glass of Istrian Malvazija or Teran—local wines that pair beautifully with sea breezes and sunset views.
🌴 Relaxing Spots on the Island
Bringing your own picnic is also welcome, and you’ll find plenty of shady spots under the pines or beside the sea to lay down a blanket and take in the serenity. The meadows near the Botanical Garden or the peaceful banks of the Soline Lakes are ideal for slow moments and peaceful reading.
For true relaxation, take a walk to one of the hidden coves or beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, or just lie back and listen to the sound of cicadas. If you’re staying overnight, the evening ambiance around the harbor—when the day-trippers leave—is especially magical.
🛌 Where to Stay in and Around Brijuni
While Brijuni feels like a secluded island world, there are several great places to stay—both on the island itself and in the charming nearby coastal town of Fažana. Whether you’re looking for historical ambiance, sea views, or a cozy seaside apartment, you’ll find something that fits your style.
🏨 Staying on Brijuni Island
For a truly unique experience, you can actually stay overnight inside the national park on Veli Brijun—a rare privilege that lets you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere after the day visitors leave.
Hotel Neptun-Istra: Located right at the island’s small port, this classic seafront hotel has hosted presidents, movie stars, and dignitaries. Rooms are simple but spacious, and the large terraces offer a view of Fažana Bay. It’s the ideal place to wake up to birdsong and sip coffee surrounded by peacocks and pine trees.
Villa Lovorka and Villa Dubravka: These charming historic villas, once reserved for elite guests, offer a more private and upscale stay. They’re perfect for those wanting a refined yet low-key retreat in a stunning natural setting.
🌙 Staying on the island gives you access to late-evening walks, quiet swims, and a rare chance to experience Brijuni without crowds.
🏡 Accommodation in Fažana
If you prefer staying on the mainland and taking a day trip to Brijuni, Fažana is the best base. It’s a laid-back fishing village with colorful houses, a seaside promenade, and excellent views of the islands. Plus, it’s where the boats to Brijuni depart, so you’ll have easy access to the park.
Hotel Villa Letan: Located just outside Fažana, this comfortable 4-star hotel offers a pool, spa, and sea-view balconies—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Heritage Hotel Chersin: A small boutique hotel set in a 500-year-old stone house, right in Fažana’s old town. Stylish rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and authentic Istrian charm.
Private Apartments & Villas: Fažana is full of modern, well-equipped apartments and seaside villas available on Booking or Airbnb. They’re great for families or travelers seeking space and flexibility. Many offer sea views, bicycles, and parking.
Whether you sleep in a grand villa once visited by kings or a cozy guesthouse by the Fažana harbor, staying close to Brijuni promises a peaceful escape surrounded by natural and cultural beauty.
📅 Best Time to Visit Brijuni
Brijuni National Park is a year-round destination, but the experience you’ll have depends a lot on when you go. Each season offers something different—from peaceful, green spring days to high-summer island buzz.
Late Spring (May–June) is arguably the best time to visit. The days are long and sunny, but the island hasn’t yet reached peak tourist numbers. Nature is at its most vibrant—wildflowers are blooming, the forests are lush, and the animals in the safari park are active. It’s warm enough for swimming, but still mild for walking, biking, and sightseeing comfortably.
Early Autumn (September–October) offers another sweet spot. The sea remains pleasantly warm from summer, and the crowds thin out. The light softens, the pace slows, and the island feels serene and golden. This is a great time for photography, quiet hikes, and soaking in the tranquil beauty of Brijuni without the hustle.
Summer (July–August) is peak season, bringing lively energy and the largest number of visitors. Boats run frequently from Fažana, and all the park’s services are in full swing—restaurants, guided tours, the electric train, and boat excursions. It’s the best time for beach-lovers and families with children, but also the most crowded and expensive period. Be sure to book tickets and accommodations in advance.
Off-Season (November–April) is quiet and atmospheric, especially if you’re looking to escape the tourist trail. The island is still open, but some attractions—like the guided tours, safari park access, and restaurants—may be limited or closed entirely. However, this can be a magical time for nature lovers, walkers, and those who want the park almost to themselves. Just dress warmly and check ferry schedules ahead of time.
🧭 Tip: Weekdays are usually less crowded than weekends, even in peak season—especially if you take the first boat of the day!
🎫 Tickets & Tours Info
Planning your visit to Brijuni is easy, but knowing what’s included in your ticket—and which options you have—can help you make the most of your day.
🛥️ Standard Day Trip Ticket
Most visitors choose the official guided excursion, which includes:
Return boat transfer from Fažana to Veli Brijun
Entrance to the National Park
A ride on the electric tourist train
Entry to Tito’s Museum, the archaeological exhibits, and the natural history collection
Multilingual guide or audio guide (depending on the season and group size)
Prices vary slightly by season, but expect to pay around:
Adults: €35
Children (age 4–14): €17
Students & seniors: Reduced rates available
Children under 4: Free
You can purchase tickets online via the official Brijuni National Park website or directly at the National Park office in Fažana, where the boats depart. During high season (July–August), advance booking is strongly recommended, especially for weekends.
🗺️ Private Tours & Additional Experiences
For a more customized visit, the park also offers:
Private guided tours for small groups or families with a personal guide
Thematic tours focused on history, biodiversity, or Tito’s legacy
Golf cart rentals (approx. €40 per hour) for exploring independently in comfort
Bicycle rentals for those who prefer an active visit
Educational snorkeling trails (available seasonally at Verige Bay)
Group bookings and educational trips are also available, and many tour operators from Pula, Rovinj, and beyond offer full-day excursions that include Brijuni.
🧭 Tip: The first and last boats of the day are usually the quietest. If you’re a photographer or prefer peaceful walks, aim for these times.
🧳 Packing Tips for a Day on Brijuni
Brijuni is all about exploring—on foot, by bike, or from the water—so come prepared for a full day outdoors. Here’s what to bring for a comfortable and carefree visit:
Wear comfortable walking shoes or sandals, especially if you plan to explore the ruins, forest paths, or uneven rocky coves. If swimming is on your agenda, pack a swimsuit and towel—some of the island’s secluded bays are perfect for a dip in the clear Adriatic.
Bring a refillable water bottle—there are drinking fountains on the island—and stay hydrated as you roam the sun-drenched landscapes. A hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are essential, especially in summer, as Brijuni’s mix of Mediterranean forest and open spaces can be both sunny and buggy.
Lastly, don’t forget your camera or phone with plenty of space—from peacocks crossing your path to Roman ruins at sunset, this island is full of moments you’ll want to capture.
🧭 Tip: If you’re coming with kids or for a relaxed picnic, pack a blanket and some snacks—there are shady meadows perfect for a midday pause.
🧒 Visiting Brijuni with Kids
Brijuni is a fantastic destination for families—especially those looking to combine nature, fun, and a bit of learning. The island offers a safe, car-free environment, making it easy to let kids roam freely without worry.
One of the biggest highlights for children is the Safari Park, where they can spot zebras, llamas, an elephant, and even sacred Indian cows. It feels like a mini adventure without leaving Croatia! Add in the dinosaur footprints found along the coast, and you’ve got an island-sized treasure hunt that sparks real excitement.
The electric tourist train is not only a practical way to explore but also a hit with younger visitors. It winds through the island’s forests, past ancient ruins and animal enclosures, with plenty to point out along the way.
While there are restaurants and cafés, they may not always match a child’s appetite or schedule, so it’s wise to bring a few snacks or a picnic. Shady meadows and quiet bays make ideal picnic spots, where the whole family can relax between explorations.
🧭 Tip: Bring binoculars or a nature journal—spotting peacocks, deer, and rabbits turns into a fun game for curious little explorers!
♿ Accessibility on Brijuni
Brijuni National Park is one of the more accessible natural destinations in Croatia, making it a great option for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Most of Veli Brijun, the main island open to visitors, is flat, paved, and easy to walk, making it comfortable for those with limited mobility or parents with strollers. The main attractions—including the museums, Safari Park, and historical sites—are connected by well-maintained paths.
For those who prefer not to walk long distances, electric golf carts are available for rent. They’re a comfortable and convenient option for elderly guests or anyone needing extra support, and they allow you to explore the island at your own pace.
The popular electric tourist train that runs as part of the guided tours is partially accessible, with space for folding wheelchairs and assistance from park staff if needed. Some of the indoor facilities (like museums and the main hotel) are also accessible, but keep in mind that access may be limited in older buildings or uneven terrain near ruins.
🧭 Tip: If you or someone in your group has mobility needs, it’s a good idea to contact the park in advance to ensure the best possible arrangements for your visit.
📍 Nearby Attractions (Beyond Fažana)
If you’re staying in the area for more than a day—or just want to explore beyond the island—there are plenty of charming and culturally rich spots just a short drive from Fažana. Brijuni may be the highlight, but the surrounding Istrian region is full of treasures worth discovering.
Pula, just 15 minutes away, is a must-see for history lovers. Its enormous Roman amphitheater is one of the best-preserved in the world and often hosts summer concerts and film festivals. Don’t miss the Temple of Augustus, the old Forum, or a stroll through the lively streets lined with boutiques and street cafés that spill out into charming squares.
Vodnjan, a small inland town nearby, is known for something quite unexpected—mummies! Inside the Church of St. Blaise, you’ll find relics of saints preserved in astonishing condition. Vodnjan is also a hub for Istrian olive oil production, with several award-winning producers offering tastings and tours.
For something quieter and more artistic, head to Bale, a picturesque hilltop village of stone houses, cobbled alleys, and hidden art galleries. It’s a peaceful place to spend a slow afternoon. Nearby Galižana is less touristy but equally authentic, ideal for cycling through olive groves and soaking in rural Istrian life.
🧭 Tip: Rent a car or hop on local buses to explore these spots easily in a half-day or full-day trip from Fažana.
📸 Instagrammable Spots
You could add a mini photo guide:
Verige Bay ruins at golden hour
Peacocks wandering near Hotel Neptun
Soline Lake reflections
Safari Park close-ups
Dino tracks on the rocks
Sunset from the dock
💬 Fun Facts & Curiosities
Make your guide more memorable with a “Did You Know?” section:
Tito hosted over 90 world leaders here—including Queen Elizabeth II and Fidel Castro
The island has a 1600-year-old olive tree that still bears fruit
There are Roman ruins underwater near the coast
The golf course is one of the few in the world where deer freely roam
