Motovun is one of Istria’s most charming hilltop towns, famous for its medieval walls, stunning views, and, of course, its legendary truffles. Its unique position and atmosphere make it a perfect hub for a variety of tours and experiences that showcase the area’s natural beauty, culinary delights, and history. Whether you’re into active adventures like e-bike rides or prefer exploring on foot with a guided hike, Motovun offers options for every taste. Our favorite? The Motovun: The trail of Giants hiking tour & Fritule Tasting — it combines storytelling, a scenic walk, and a sweet local treat, making it a memorable introduction to this special town.
If you prefer a more relaxed, flavor-focused experience, the Truffle Hunt & 3-Course Brunch with Locals offers an authentic taste of Istria’s famed truffles, combined with a chance to learn about their culinary importance. For those who want to combine sightseeing with a touch of culture and art, private tours like the Full-Day Istrian Gems Tour provide personalized insights into the region’s history, art, and architecture. For adventurers seeking active exploration, the E-Bike Tour in Istria takes you through picturesque hillside villages and along historic railway paths. As you can see, Motovun’s diverse tours give you a broad palette of ways to experience Istria’s charm.
1. Motovun: The trail of Giants hiking tour & Fritule Tasting
Explore the road of giants, climb the medieval city of Motovun, and learn about the fascinating legend of Veli Joža, a giant said to have once roamed these hills. This tour takes you off the usual tourist trail, revealing the area’s natural and mythic stories while walking through lush landscapes. Along the way, you’ll taste Fritule, small Croatian doughnuts, often served with local truffle honey—a perfect sweet reward after a hike. The tour is rated 5/5 with three reviews, emphasizing its engaging storytelling and scenic route.
What makes this experience stand out is its combination of adventure and local flavor. The guide shares stories of the giants and local legends, making it a lively and educational walk. The route is ideal for those who enjoy moderate hikes and want an intimate look at Motovun’s surroundings. The tasting component adds a delightful culinary twist, especially for food lovers. The group size is up to 12, which keeps things cozy and personal.
Bottom line: If you’re after a combination of nature, legend, and tasty treats, this tour offers a balanced mix that fits well for active travelers who love stories and local cuisine. Book early, as it’s popular and highly rated.
2. Motovun: E-Bike Tour in Istria
Starting in Motovun, this e-bike tour takes you through some of the most scenic parts of inland Istria. For around $124 per person, you’ll pedal through the countryside, passing hillside towns like Oprtalj and Groznjan, both known for their artistic vibe and stunning vistas. The route includes the famous Parenzana, a historic railway that has been converted into a cycling path, offering easy riding and fantastic views.
This tour is perfect for those who want to cover more ground without tiring—and who enjoy the freedom of cycling through rural landscapes. The guide explains the area’s history and points out highlights along the way, making it informative and enjoyable. Its focus on cycling the historic Parenzana rail line provides a unique perspective on Istria’s landscape. The route is relatively easy, suitable for most fitness levels, and the e-bike assistance makes it accessible even for those with limited cycling experience.
Bottom line: If you’re after a scenic, active, and educational way to explore inland Istria, this e-bike tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially good for those who want to combine gentle exercise with sightseeing.
$124 per person
3. From Poreč: Motovun & Grožnjan with Local Products Tasting
For around $1,012 per group (up to 6 people), this tour from Poreč offers a deep dive into inland Istria, with visits to Motovun and Grožnjan. The experience includes exploring these charming hilltop towns and sampling organic extra virgin olive oil, local wine, and other regional products in Nova Vas. It’s a rich culinary journey paired with sightseeing, perfect for foodies and cultural explorers alike.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local products and authentic tasting experiences. The guide takes you into traditional olive groves and vineyards, sharing stories about Istria’s food traditions. The towns of Motovun and Grožnjan are known for their unique atmospheres—Motovun’s medieval walls and views, and Grožnjan’s reputation as the “town of artists.” The small group size ensures an intimate experience, with plenty of time to ask questions and enjoy the scenery.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in gastronomy or local culture, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of inland Istria. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of sightseeing and culinary delights in a relaxed setting.
$1,012 per group up to 6
4. From Vrsar-Poreč: Motovun and Grožnjan Day Trip
This full-day trip, costing about $506 for groups up to 8, offers a well-rounded exploration of two iconic Istrian towns—Motovun and Grožnjan. Starting from the seaside, you’ll walk the medieval streets of Motovun, where the views of the surrounding hills and forests are breathtaking. Then, you’ll head to Grožnjan, renowned for its vibrant art scene, galleries, and lively streets.
This tour emphasizes culture, art, and local flavors. The guide introduces you to the famous Istrian truffles, and you’ll have opportunities to sample local wines and cheeses. Walking through the town walls of Motovun or browsing the art galleries in Grožnjan makes for a diversified experience.
The highlight is the personal touch—being able to explore at a relaxed pace with a knowledgeable guide. The tour is best suited for those interested in history, art, and gastronomy, with plenty of opportunities to wander and indulge.
Bottom line: If you want a cultural and culinary overview of Istria’s hilltop towns, this day trip balances sightseeing with tasting and is ideal for small groups seeking a personalized experience.
$506 per group up to 8
5. Motovun: 90-Minute Glass Flameworking Experience
In this hands-on workshop, priced at $135 per person, you’ll learn the craft of glass flameworking in Motovun. Over 90 minutes, you’ll work with a torch to shape glass into small decorative or functional pieces. The experience is as much about creativity as it is about craftsmanship, with guidance from a professional instructor.
What makes this activity unique is the personal creation aspect. You’ll leave with 2–5 handmade glass items, which can be shipped later or picked up the next day. The workshop is ideal for those interested in art and DIY experiences, especially if you want a tangible souvenir from your trip.
This experience is rated positively, with participants appreciating the fun, interactive nature, and the chance to learn a new skill in a picturesque town. The studio setting in Motovun enhances the intimate, artistic vibe.
Bottom line: If you want a creative break and enjoy making something yourself, this glass-flameworking session offers a memorable and rewarding activity.
$135 per person
6. Motovun: Truffle Hunt & 3-Course Brunch with Locals
For $153 per person, this experience immerses you in the world of Istrian truffles. You’ll join a local family and a food anthropologist on a truffle hunt, guided by a professional truffle hunter and his trained dogs. Afterward, indulge in a 3-course brunch featuring fresh, local ingredients and a decadent chocolate truffle cake infused with honey.
This tour is a perfect mix of culinary education, cultural insight, and authentic local connection. The hunt reveals how truffle hunting has been part of Istria’s traditions for generations. The tasting includes homemade truffle-infused rakijas and other regional specialties, making it a delicious and enriching experience.
Rated highly for its authenticity and fun, this tour is best suited for food lovers and those wanting a genuine taste of Istria’s truffle culture. The highlight—finding wild truffles and sampling them in a convivial atmosphere—is unforgettable.
Bottom line: If you’re keen to learn about and taste Istria’s prized truffles, this guided hunt and brunch offers a truly local experience that’s both tasty and educational.
$153 per person
7. Private Full-Day Istrian Gems Tour in Croatia from Rovinj
This private tour at $1,122 for your group (up to 2 people) offers a personalized full-day exploration of Istria’s highlights. Your guide will take you to Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and through Grožnjan, famed for its artistic ambiance. The day includes walking the medieval walls of Motovun and discovering its charming streets.
The benefit of a private tour is the flexibility to tailor the experience to your interests—whether that’s more art, culture, or scenery. The guide provides detailed stories, making the visit more meaningful. The trip also includes walks along ancient city walls and visits to local galleries, appealing to culturally curious travelers.
Perfect for couples or small groups seeking an intimate, customized experience with expert insights, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Istria’s gems without rushing.
Bottom line: For those wanting personalized attention and a deep dive into Istria’s culture and art, this private tour is a top choice. Booking early ensures availability.
$1,122 per group up to 2
8. Truffle hunting in Istria private experience
This exclusive truffle hunting experience costs $776 for a private group of up to 2 people. You’ll explore the woods with a local truffle hunter and his dogs, searching for the region’s prized black and white truffles. Afterwards, enjoy a degustation of truffle products paired with local wine in a medieval setting.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on personalized, hands-on truffle hunting. The private setting allows for in-depth explanations of truffle ecology and harvesting techniques. The tasting session includes local truffle delicacies, making it a gourmet experience that combines nature, flavor, and tradition.
Ideal for culinary enthusiasts and couples, this tour offers an intimate look at Istria’s gastronomic treasure while enjoying the tranquility of medieval surroundings.
Bottom line: If you value privacy, gourmet food, and a genuine connection to local truffle traditions, this private hunt is a memorable, delicious experience.
$776 per group up to 2
9. Zagreb: Private Istria Tour with Rovinj & Truffle Tasting
Starting from Zagreb, this private day trip at $823 per group up to 8 covers a broad stretch of Istria. You’ll visit Motovun, tasting local truffles, and stroll Rovinj’s St. Euphemia’s Church, enjoying the scenic coastal charm. The drive itself reveals rolling hills, forests, and picturesque towns.
The trip balances cultural sightseeing, culinary tasting, and scenic drives, making it suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive introduction to Istria without staying overnight. The private nature means flexible stops and personalized explanations from your guide.
Perfect for those with limited time but a desire to see the highlights of Istria, especially if combined with a love of food, art, and coastal scenery.
$823 per group up to 8
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For active explorers, the e-bike tour or hiking adventure offers scenic routes and storytelling, while food lovers will appreciate the truffle hunting and tasting experiences. If you prefer a customized, private experience, the full-day private tours provide flexibility and in-depth insights.
For a culinary immersion, opt for the truffle hunt combined with brunch or tasting sessions. If you seek a creative activity, the glass flameworking workshop delivers a memorable craft experience. And for those curious about history and architecture, the private full-day tour hitting Euphrasian Basilica and town walls is ideal.
Booking early is recommended, especially for specialized experiences like private hunts or workshops. Check for seasonal availability, as some tours might be more appealing during truffle season in fall.
Final Thoughts
Motovun offers a rich selection of tours and experiences tailored to different interests—whether you’re into active adventures, culinary delights, artistic pursuits, or private guided explorations. For a well-rounded taste of Istria, combining a walking or biking tour with a truffle hunting experience makes for a fantastic trip.
If you’re looking for a personalized, immersive experience, the Full-Day Istrian Gems Tour or the private private hunts are excellent choices. For a more relaxed, flavor-focused visit, the truffle brunch or olive oil tasting will satisfy your palate.
Remember, these tours tend to book up, especially in peak season, so it’s a good idea to reserve ahead. Whichever you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the flavors, stories, and scenery that make Motovun and its surroundings unforgettable.
Happy exploring in Motovun—where history, legend, and great food collide for a truly memorable trip.