Istria: Unknown Istria and “World’s Smallest City” Hum

If you’re venturing into Croatia’s Istria region and want more than just the popular coastal spots, this tour offers a fascinating look into the less-trodden, authentic side of Istria. It combines history, unique architecture, and quirky local culture, all packed into a manageable day trip. You’ll visit a medieval church with legendary frescoes, explore charming hilltop towns, and even stand in what’s officially recognized as the world’s smallest city.

One thing we especially love about this experience is how it balances guided insights with free time, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. The visit to Hum, in particular, is a highlight—being the smallest city in the world feels like stepping into a tiny, living museum. However, keep in mind that this tour is quite compact; if you have a keen interest in history and small-town charm, it’s perfect, but those seeking a longer, more leisurely exploration might want to consider additional days.

This tour works best for travelers who love culture, small towns, and discovering hidden corners of a region. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic experience without the crowds, this trip offers immense value at a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visits to medieval towns and small cities give a genuine feel of Istria’s hidden charm.
• Cultural Highlights: Marvel at renowned frescoes and medieval architecture in Beram and Draguc.
• Unique Stops: Hum, the “smallest city in the world,” offers a one-of-a-kind tiny town experience.
• Guided Tours: Expert guides lead you through each destination, providing insights that enrich the visit.
• Flexibility & Value: Included transportation, guided tours, and entry fees make this a well-rounded option for travelers on a budget.
• Timing & Pace: This roughly 9-hour trip balances sightseeing with free time, ideal for a full but manageable day.

Exploring the Full Itinerary

Starting Bright and Early

The tour kicks off around 9 am, giving you plenty of time to get into the groove of Istrian discovery. The first stop is Beram, famous for its church of Mary of the Rocks, which houses some of the most celebrated frescoes in the region. As we learned from other visitors, these frescoes are not only artistically impressive but also hold significant historical value. One reviewer mentioned, “The frescoes at St Mary of the Rocks are breathtaking, and it’s a real treat to see such well-preserved medieval art up close.” The entry fee is included, so you can focus on admiring rather than worrying about costs.

Wandering Through Draguc

Next, the tour takes us to Draguc, a charming hilltop village often nicknamed “Istrian Hollywood” for its picturesque setting and well-preserved medieval architecture. We loved the way the narrow cobbled streets and stone houses transported us back centuries. The guided walk offers a chance to learn about the town’s history, its role in regional trade, and its renaissance as a film location. Reviewers highlight that the walk reveals “hidden corners and stories you’d miss on your own,” making it worth paying attention to your guide’s commentary.

Discovering Buzet, the “City of Truffles”

From Draguc, we head to Buzet, a town famous for its truffles and rustic charm. The guided walking tour here allows us to appreciate its vibrant old town, historic squares, and local markets. Many visitors find Buzet’s atmosphere to be relaxing yet lively, especially if you’re a foodie or truffle lover. One review even mentioned that the town “smells like truffles everywhere,” which makes it even more tempting to indulge in local culinary delights—though, food isn’t included in the tour, so additional visits to local eateries are on your own.

The Quirky Hum: The Smallest City in the World

The highlight for many is a visit to Hum, officially recognized as the smallest city in the world. With a population of around 20 people and just a handful of streets, Hum is a tiny but incredibly charming place. You’ll have time to walk around its old town, admire the medieval architecture, and soak in its quirky atmosphere. Several reviewers mention that Hum “feels like a fairytale,” and the size makes it perfect for a quick, memorable visit. After the walk, you can choose to relax at a local “Konoba” (traditional Croatian tavern) for lunch—spaces must be reserved in advance if you want to dine there.

Returning and Reflecting

After Hum, the tour concludes with a scenic drive back, allowing you to process the day’s highlights. The entire experience lasts roughly 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to appreciate each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers excellent value through included transportation, a guide/driver, and entry fees to key sites like St Mary’s church. The guided walks in Draguc, Buzet, and Hum help bring the towns’ stories to life, especially with knowledgeable guides, some of whom have been praised for their friendly and engaging manner.

Meals and beverages are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to grab a quick bite during free time. The optional reservation at a local “Konoba” in Hum is a nice touch for those wanting a sit-down meal in an authentic setting, but it requires advance booking.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Comfortable shoes are essential, especially for walking through cobbled streets and uneven terrain in Hum and Draguc.
• Bring a camera or smartphone — the scenic views and quaint streets are worth capturing.
• Weather considerations: Check the forecast. The towns are mostly outdoor explorations, so sun protection or rain gear could be helpful.
• Reserve early if you want to dine at the local Konoba in Hum, as seats tend to fill quickly.
• Language: Guides provide commentary in both English and German, so specify your preference when booking if needed.

Is This Tour Right For You?

If you love discovering authentic, lesser-known destinations and are interested in medieval architecture, local art, and small-town charm, this trip will delight you. It’s suitable for those who prefer a balanced mix of guided insights and free time, making it ideal for casual explorers.

However, if you’re after a very leisurely, slow-paced exploration or want to include a lot of other activities, this might feel a bit brisk. Also, travelers who enjoy culinary experiences might need to plan additional meals, since food isn’t included.

Overall, for the price of $146, you get a well-organized day that offers a taste of Istria’s hidden treasures, making it a smart choice for a half-day to full-day cultural escape.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a compelling snapshot of Istria’s quieter, more authentic side. Visiting Beram, Draguc, Buzet, and Hum gives travelers a chance to see medieval art, explore traditional towns, and stand in the smallest city on earth—all in one day. The guided approach ensures you learn about the history and stories behind each place, while the free time allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace.

The value is solid, especially considering the included transportation, entry fees, and guided walking tours. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a meaningful, manageable exploration without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just someone eager to find out what makes Istria special beyond its coastline, this experience will leave you with memorable sights and stories.

If your idea of travel leans toward uncovering hidden corners and local character, this tour will fit the bill beautifully. Keep in mind that it’s a quick day trip, so it’s best suited for those who want a taste rather than a deep dive—though that taste is undeniably delightful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The entire day is approximately 9 hours, starting around 9 am and returning in the late afternoon. It’s a full but comfortably paced day.

What sites will I visit during the tour?
You’ll see Beram’s church of Mary of the Rocks, explore Draguc, walk through Buzet, and visit Hum, the smallest city in the world.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included. There is an option to reserve seats at a local “Konoba” in Hum for lunch.

Are guided tours available at each stop?
Yes, guided walks are arranged in Draguc, Buzet, and Hum, providing insights into each town’s history and character.

What’s the price of the tour?
It costs $146 per person, which covers transportation, guide/driver, and entry fees to St Marys church.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

Embark on this journey for a chance to see Istria’s quieter side, full of stories, art, and tiny towns that pack a big punch. It’s an ideal way to add depth to your Croatian adventure, especially if you prefer authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.