Two of Istria’s most talked-about hilltop towns — but are they actually worth your time, or just good for photos?
If you’re planning a trip to Istria, chances are Motovun and Grožnjan will show up somewhere on your list. They’re the kind of places that look perfect online — stone houses, narrow streets, views over rolling hills.
But the real question is: are they worth the drive, or are they just another “stop, take a photo, leave” situation?
The short answer: yes, they’re worth it — but only if you do them right.
Motovun: The One Everyone Talks About
Motovun is the more famous of the two, and you’ll feel that immediately. The drive up is beautiful, especially as the road starts winding through vineyards and forests. Once you reach the top, you can’t actually drive into the old town — you’ll need to park below.
Where to park:
Use the main parking area at the bottom of the hill (Motovun parking zone), then either: walk up (10–15 minutes, a bit steep), or take the shuttle (in high season)
What it’s actually like?
Motovun is small. Much smaller than people expect. You can walk through the entire old town in about 30–40 minutes. Most of the main street is lined with souvenir shops, restaurants, and wine stores — some good, some very average. The highlight is not the town itself — it’s the view. Walk along the city walls and look out over the Mirna valley. On a clear day, it’s one of the best views in Istria.
Best time to go:
Before 10:00 AM or after 17:00
(midday = crowded, hot, less enjoyable)
Grožnjan: Smaller, Quieter, Better?
About 20 minutes from Motovun, Grožnjan feels completely different. It’s smaller, less commercial, and has a much calmer energy. Where Motovun feels like a place people come to see, Grožnjan feels like a place people stay a little longer.
What makes Grožnjan special?
Grožnjan is known as an “artist town,” and you’ll notice it immediately. Instead of souvenir shops, you’ll find: small galleries, open studios, handmade ceramics and art. It’s less about ticking off sights and more about walking slowly and discovering things as you go.
What to do here?
Walk through the entire village (takes about 30–45 minutes), Step into small galleries — many are open and informal, Stop for a drink in a quiet square – our reccommendation – Truba Bar (be sure to check out the rooftopm terrace!
So… Are They Worth It?
Yes — but not for the reasons most people think. If you go expecting: hidden villages, local everyday life, something untouched, you might be disappointed.
But if you go for: views, atmosphere, a short, well-planned stop – they’re absolutely worth it.
