Tucked away in the northwestern corner of Croatia, Umag is a hidden gem on the Adriatic Sea. Although it is not as well-known as some other Croatian coastal towns, Umag is a beautiful and welcoming place that is well worth a visit. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Umag.
Umag Old Town
One of the first things you’ll notice in Umag is the Venetian influence on architecture. The Old Town of Umag is situated on a hillside overlooking the harbour. The town was once part of the Republic of Venice, which is reflected in its buildings, narrow streets, and food. Be sure to try some of the local specialities like squid ink risotto or spaghetti with cuttlefish.
The centre of Umag is dominated by the Church of St. Mary and St. Peregrin, a beautiful Baroque-style building that dates back to the 18th century. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of religious art.
Just outside of town is the Stella Maris Monastery, another Venetian-influenced structure that is well worth a visit. The monastery is home to a small museum with interesting exhibits on the history of Umag and the surrounding area.
Be sure to visit the Cathedral of St. Mary of Assumption, which dates back to the 13th century, and the Church of St. Troitza, built in the Baroque style in the 18th century. If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the view, head to Loggia Protecta, a 15th-century loggia that offers panoramic views of the Old Town and harbour.
If you’re passionate about history and culture, then Umag is the vacation destination for you—offering a plethora of museums like the Museum of Contemporary Art, Archaeological Museum, and Umag History Museum.
Umag Beaches
Umag is also known for its beaches. There are several to choose from, but one of the most popular is Banje Beach. This beautiful stretch of sand is located just outside of town and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Banje Beach
Banje Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Umag. It is located just outside of town and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The beach is well-equipped with showers, toilets, and changing rooms, and there are several restaurants and cafes nearby if you need refreshments. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot to soak up the sun, head to Safir Beach, which can be reached by taking a short boat ride from Banje Beach.
Stinjan Beach
Stinjan Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Umag. It is just a few minutes from the Old Town and is easily accessible by public transport. The beach is well-equipped with showers, toilets, and changing rooms, and there are several restaurants and cafes nearby if you need refreshments. If you’re looking for a more secluded spot to soak up the sun, head to Safir Beach, which can be reached by taking a short boat ride from Stinjan Beach.
Katoro Beach
Katoro Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that is popular with families. It is located just outside Umag and can be reached by taking a short bus ride from the town centre. The beach is well-equipped with showers, toilets, and changing rooms, and there are several restaurants and cafes nearby if you need refreshments.
Safir Beach
Safir Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that is popular with families. It is located just outside of Umag and can be reached by taking a short boat ride from Banje Beach. The beach is well-equipped with showers, toilets, and changing rooms, and there are several restaurants and cafes nearby if you need refreshments.
Umag Marina
Umag Marina is one of the largest marinas on the Adriatic Sea. It is home to over 1,200 boats and yachts and has everything you need for a perfect day out at sea, including charter companies, water sports equipment rental shops, restaurants, and bars. There are also several beaches in close proximity to the marina if you want to take a swim or sunbathe before heading back to your boat.
If you’re interested in exploring the Croatian coastline, Umag is the perfect base. Numerous day trips can be taken from Umag, including visits to the towns of Novigrad and Porec, as well as the islands of Krk and Rab.
Tennis in Umag
Umag is also known as a tennis destination, as it is home to the ATP Croatia Open, an annual tennis tournament that takes place in July. If you’re a tennis fan, be sure to check out some of the matches. And if you’re looking to improve your own game, several tennis clubs in Umag offer group and private lessons for all levels.
Adrenaline rush in Umag
Umag is the perfect destination for those seeking an adrenaline rush. There are numerous activities to choose from, such as paragliding, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. If you’re looking for something a bit more extreme, head to Adrenalin Park Umag, which offers a range of exhilarating activities such as zip lining, paintballing, and quad biking.
Umag Nightlife
Umag comes alive at night, especially in the summer months when tourists flock to the town. There are numerous bars and clubs to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste. If you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, some several cafes and restaurants offer live music or DJs.
If you’re looking for somewhere to listen to live music, check out Blues Bar Umag, which hosts regular blues concerts. And if you want to dance the night away, head to Aquarius Club, one of the most popular nightclubs in town.
Umag Shopping
Umag is home to numerous shops and boutiques, selling everything from clothes and souvenirs to local produce. Some of the best places to shop in Umag include the open-air market, which sells fresh fruits and vegetables and locally made crafts. For designer brands and high-end fashion, head to Trg Marafor, the town’s main square. And for souvenirs, be sure to check out some of the shops selling Croatian specialities such as olive oil, wine, and honey.
Where to stay in Umag
Umag has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from camping and hostels to luxury hotels. Umag’s best hotels include the Hotel Park Plaza Histria, the Meliá Istrian Villas, and the Kempinski Adriatic Hotel.
For those on a budget, several camping sites and hostels are located in and around Umag. Some of the most popular include Camping Stella Maris, Camping Kažela, and Hostel ECO.
Private accommodation in Umag is also a popular option, especially for families or friends. Many apartments and villas are available to rent, with most offering stunning sea views.
Where to eat in Umag
Umag has a wide range of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets. There are numerous fast food outlets and cafes for quick and easy meals. For something more substantial, plenty of restaurants offer traditional Croatian cuisine and international dishes.
Some of the best restaurants in Umag include Restaurant Poreč, which specializes in seafood, and Restaurant Zigante, which is known for its excellent pizzas. Some of the best restaurants in Umag include La Bottega, Taverna Nostromo, and Pizzeria Roko.
If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, head to Restaurant Giannino, located in an old water mill. The restaurant has a romantic setting with outdoor seating and views of the river flowing by.
If you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy a morning coffee or afternoon tea, be sure to check out one of Umag’s many cafes. Some of the best include Caffe Pizzeria Riva and Caffe Bar Nono.
How to get to Umag
Umag is located in northwestern Croatia, about 60 kilometres from the city of Pula. The best way to get to Umag is by car or bus. If you’re coming from Pula, take the A8 motorway north and exit at Umag. The journey takes about an hour. There are also regular buses from Pula to Umag, which depart from the central bus station. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Getting around Umag
The best way to get around Umag is on foot or by bicycle. However, if you want to explore further afield, several taxis and rental cars are also available. Bicycles can be rented from several shops in town, and taxis can be found at the main taxi rank on Trg Marafor.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed sailing adventure, Umag has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today.
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