Things to Do in Rabac & Istria
Beaches, outdoor adventures, restaurants, wineries, and day trips
Rabac
Rabac is known for its crystal-clear sea, beautiful beaches, and excellent outdoor activities.
Beaches
The most popular beaches are Girandella, Lanterna, and Maslinica, all within walking distance, offering swimming, snorkeling, sunbeds, beach bars, and water sports.
Cycling
Rabac and Labin are one of the best cycling areas in Istria, with panoramic coastal and mountain trails.
Popular routes include:
- Rabac – Labin ascent
- Bella Vista Trail
- Skitača cycling route
Istria Bike – Cycling Maps & Routes
Bike rental and services are available at Bike Center Rabac.
Hiking & Walking
Popular walking trails in the area:
- Sentonina Staza (Sentona Trail) – scenic hiking path connecting Rabac and Labin through forest, waterfalls, and viewpoints.
- Bella Vista Trail – a 15 km scenic route climbing to the Standar plateau (474 m), with spectacular views of the Adriatic, nearby islands, and medieval hill towns. The path winds through villages and ancient dry stone walls, passing prehistoric tumuli and hill fort remains.
Diving
Rabac offers excellent diving locations with clear visibility, underwater cliffs, and caves.
Services include guided dives, beginner courses, and equipment rental.
Boat Excursions
For daily boat trips, simply go to the harbour, which is a 5-minute walk from Kanat Apartments, and you'll see all available excursions: dolphin watching, hidden bays, island trips, and private rentals.
Restaurants & Bars in Rabac
Restaurants
- Pentola – modern Mediterranean cuisine
- Oliva – elegant restaurant by the sea
- Lino – traditional seafood and local dishes
- Primorje – authentic coastal restaurant
Bars
- Perla – popular waterfront bar
- Movie Bar – cocktails and evening drinks
- The Beat Beach Bar – beach bar with music and sunset views
Labin Old Town
Only 10 minutes by car, Labin Old Town is a beautiful medieval town with narrow streets, galleries, and panoramic sea views.
Restaurants in Labin Old Town
- Rumore – modern cuisine and wine selection
- Kvarner – traditional and elegant dining
- Peteani – fine dining experience
- Velo Kafe – relaxed atmosphere and excellent food
Traditional Konoba (Taverns)
- Cerovac – authentic Istrian cuisine
- Tomažići – family-run tavern with local specialties
- Marcus – traditional food in peaceful surroundings
Labin Market
Monday to Saturday, Labin hosts a local market where visitors can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and other seasonal produce. It's a wonderful way to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the town and enjoy authentic Istrian flavors.
Kova Experience
Labin and the surrounding area are historically known for coal mining, which shaped the region for over a century. In nearby Raša, the Kova Experience takes visitors into that mining past with a guided underground tour of a former coal mine. The visit includes the Arsia Mining House, a short film about the miners' stories, and a walk through the tunnels with an expert guide (rubber boots provided).
Wine & Olive Oil
Istria is one of Croatia's most celebrated wine regions, often compared to classic Mediterranean territories thanks to its ideal climate, sun-drenched hills, and centuries-long winemaking tradition.
Istrian Wine
The peninsula is especially known for its indigenous grape varieties — like Malvasia Istriana and Teran — producing elegant white wines and rich reds that attract wine lovers from all over the world. Visitors can explore vineyard landscapes, enjoy tastings, and pair wines with local Istrian cuisine for an unforgettable gourmet experience.
Around Rabac and Labin, many wine producers welcome guests for tastings and tours, offering a chance to sample the region's best wines and learn about traditional winemaking.
Olive Oil
Istria is also famous for its extra virgin olive oil. In Rabac, you can visit Belic, a local olive oil producer, to taste freshly pressed oil and learn about traditional production. The region's olive oils are celebrated for their rich flavor and are a perfect way to bring a taste of Istria home.
Explore Istria – Day Trips
Rovinj
One of the most beautiful towns in Croatia, famous for its old town, romantic streets, and restaurants.
60 minutesPula & the Roman Amphitheatre
Home to the famous Pula Arena, one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world.
50 minutesMotovun
A picturesque hilltop town known for truffles, wine, and stunning views.
75 minutesPremantura & Cape Kamenjak
A protected nature park with wild beaches, cycling trails, and crystal-clear sea.
60 minutes