Labin that is also known as ancient Albona situated on a 315-metre high hill of southeastern Istria seems to be at a glance the town having the invisible streets. Yet, those streets won’t stay hidden.
When one starts searching for the traces to discover them, he’ll soon notice artistic and vibrant city core full of the painted facades’ houses. Yes, I like to be a part of that kind of city. Every time I’m there, I get the new motivation to reveal something I haven’t known so I can share it with you via Putokoza articles. So if this story of another picturesque town might seem attractive you, let’s continue reading to unveil the things to do in picturesque Labin.
Wandering through the stone lanes feels like walking through a living museum. Behind each doorway lies a studio, a craftsman’s shop, or a hidden courtyard perfumed with lavender. The pastel façades, worn by sea winds, lean closely together as if whispering old stories. Near the town gate stands the Porta Sanfior, Labin’s Renaissance entrance crowned with the Venetian lion — a silent guardian of centuries.
Why should you visit Labin
Besides being known as a birthplace of the Reformation philosopher Matija Vlačić Ilirik (Martin Luther’s closest associate), ancient Labin located on southeastern Istria will get inspiration in every artist storyteller like me enjoys searching for inspirational stories in such of picturesque towns.Besides, to be historical and ancient with many heritage monuments, Labin is a town of artists.
Today, the old town that once used to be an independent republic has known to be a “Labin Art Republic”. Every summer its streets are filled with the performance and fine arts. Though it might look tiny as the other medieval places of Istria, Labin is a city of the museums. There are few of them. The main is the Town Museum with impressive archaeological collections. You should visit it scroll to see what we described below.
But Labin is not just an old town. It’s much more of it. The place once was famed by quarrying. The shaft which once used to be a fundamental economic branch also gave impetus to the whole region’s development. But even the ore was significant in export. Today the mineis closed, but the mining tradition has still been living in the town. You’ll quickly mention the mine shaft museum that today used to be serving as the youth centre, library, and an art place.
Labin location
A picturesque town on the ridge of a hill (315 m) is located in southeastern Istria, Croatia about three kilometres from the shore. Its location enabled to have a fantastic view overlooking to coastal Rabac, the town situated under of it, Cres island and Istrians mountains of Učka & Ćićarija. Get more information about reaching the place in our getting to the section at the end.
Labin in history
History of Labin os merged on the old part of Labin’s site were used to be a prehistoric fort. In the Classical Antiquity, Albona’s town as verified by the oldest written record founded on the hill on which old Labin is located and was inhabited in the second millennium BC. However, the place name was first mentioned by Artemidor of Ephesus, who lived about 100 BC. Labin history’s oldest written document is a relief with the inscription “RES PUBLICA ALBONESSIUM” from the third century. Such are kept in the Town Museum.
Labin was an important city on the Tabula Peutingeriana from the 3rd century, marked as “Alvona.” The town changed its name several times throughout history. The pre-Roman name “Alvona,” and “Alouon” as referred to by the ancient Greeks, remained largely unchanged during Roman rule. In the 12th century, the Arab geographer Al-Idrisi mentioned Labin as “Albunah,” meaning a populated city. A similar form appears in the 7th century writings of the Anonymous of Ravenna.
In the 10th century, Byzantine Emperor Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus referred to it as Castron Albonos. The Slavic (Croatian) name “Labin,” derived from the local dialect, is also ancient. Interestingly, the form Labinci predates the current inhabitants of the town.
Labin, along with Buzet, was one of the first purely Illyrian (Croatian) towns in the early Middle Ages. It was ruled by the Byzantines, Lombards, and Franks. In the 9th century, it became part of the Kingdom of Italy, and in the 10th century, part of the Romanesque-Germanic domain. From 1207 to 1420, it was governed by the Patriarchs of Aquileia, after which it was among the last regions in Istria to come under Venetian rule. It remained under Venetian authority from 1420 until the Republic’s fall in 1797.
Following brief French administration in the early 19th century, Labin came under Austrian rule, which was replaced by Italian governance after World War I.
Due to poor working conditions in the coal mines, Labin’s miners rose up and proclaimed the Labin Republic on March 2, 1921. The republic lasted for five weeks before being suppressed by armed forces.
After World War II, Labin was annexed to Croatia, along with the rest of Istria. Today, the town consists of two parts: the old town on the hill and the newer settlement of Podlabin, which developed at its base.
Things to do in Labin
There are a lot of that do to in Labin since it has much to offer. The only thing you need is to discover how to enjoy art and medieval or outdoor and nature. Depends on what you prefer.
Stroll Labin the Old town
One of the main things you shouldn’t miss is to stroll the old medieval town located on a 320 meters highhill. I enjoy to walk the cobblestone streets of the “Old or Upper Labin”and overlooking the wonderful heritage. It is unique since Upper Labin is considered one of the best-preserved acropoleis in Istria with uneven lanes and staircases. And it is at the town of “Matija Vlačić Ilirik”, the reformist and Martin Luther’s associate. You’ll see the big picture with him on a hilly street while entering into the old town.
Look on the facade houses during walk alongside the old Labin. The artists who have brought new energy into the town today made Labin is full of life, especially in the evening when young people crowd the town’s coffee bars.
Enjoy the beautiful views from “Fortica”, the town defence point.
One of the attractions I most like is this upper part of the old town to the parish church. The area called Gorica the only fortified in the Middle Ages. Besides to be a town of the artists,old Labin offers few of the magnificent viewpoints with having a view extending ofsurroundings and a new part of the city below.
The absolute best place to get in-depth over the coloured old town is to climb up to the “Fortica”. Besides having the cannonball, this highest pointin ancient cities is lush of motivation since it is stunning. Opposite of it is a Kvarner Bay with the islands of Cres and Lošinjwhat you’ll see at a glance. Take a look carefully surround since during the bright sunny day you’ll be able to see also Učka, the highest Istrian mountain, Ćićarija or even Velebit in on the horizon. The place that could be seen the best is Rabac, the tourist town located under on the shore.
Take a walk alongside the Town Gates
The thing you shouldn’t miss while visiting the old town is to stroll through the “Gate of Saint Flor” also known as “Vela Vrata”. The gate dating back of 1587 was built in the high renaissance style lead to the old town. The Venetian coat of arms was placed there. On the left is the coat of arms of the Grimani family, one of the main ones in Labin at that time. The lion uses to be with less clear lines than the others I saw in the former Venetian part of Istria.
The middle 16th-century city gate located on the “Tito Square” is one of the most recognizable symbols of the old town. I use to walk them after the end of the sightseeing. Like in the other medieval villages, the gate represented the security. It used to be locked during the night and were guarded by the two guards.
Until the end of the 1960s, the city gate had a small passage located on the side (today between the entrance and the “Sanfior” store). While I was the first time, I entered the baroque “Gate of St. Flora” or “Porta Sanfior” I didn’t know it was named after the saint. There also used to be a chapel dedicated to him located right above the gate.
On the right side of the city gate is the former official coat of arms of the city of Labin (until 1990 of the 20thcentury), made in the mosaic technique. It was created as a reminder of the “Labin Republic”, a miners’ strike from 1921, indicated on the coat of arms. The words “Kova is ours- Kova Je Naša”, dated 2. 3. 1921. The depiction of the old town of Labin is located on the top of a hill.
There is a smaller gate on the other side of the town, used to known “Gate of Uskoci” (Uskočka Vrata). Legend has it on the night of Saint Sebastian on 19/20 January 1599. Uskoci (renegade Croatian soldiers during the Ottomans) used this gate to enter the town and destroy some buildings.
Get some reston Tito square.
One of the most picturesque squares of the east coast of Istria is characterized by offbeat little shops, eateries and art galleries. A visitor gets a real feeling of the old town uniqueness history when he walks up or down the cobblestone square.
Besides being one of the most recognizable meeting points for a start the sightseeing tour, this square has a lot of its heritage, such as a city loggia, the tower and the municipality building. Still, it is also the best point in town for having a rest.
Admire the Little Theater with the clock tower
In the central part of the old city, the most exciting building is undoubtedly known as “Small Theater” or “Teatrina”. The building dating back of 1539 served as a font, or city grain warehouse was at the in 1844 reconstructed to serve as a theatre.
Due to the establishment change, the building of course later changed its purpose. It was occasionally a barracks and a sports hall. Various festivities were often organized in it, even private or public ones.
For a time, the city fathers intended to build a public bathroom in it abandoned. Since 1958, there have been boards that mean life again, although space is also used for organizing other events with a cultural sign. Very artistic city clock rises above the building.
See the parish church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Parish Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Crkva Blažene Djevice Marije), built in 1336 in Gothic style, stands on the remains of an earlier 11th-century church. On its façade, you’ll immediately notice the rose window, along with the Venetian lion holding a sphere in its mouth—added in 1604.
A walled-up Gothic doorway is still visible on the right side of the façade. In 1688, a Baroque statue of Antonio Bollani—a senator and fighter against the Ottomans—was placed on the front. This bust is considered one of the most beautiful secular sculptures in 17th-century Istria.
Inside the church’s highly decorated interior are six marble altars, among is the most valuable the altar of the “Transfiguration” from the 18th century. There is an urn with the relics of St. Just’s transferred in 1664 from Rome on it. The main altar dates back to 1832. It is the work of Natale Schiavone of Dalmatia. There we notice the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Paolina and Saints Justus, Sergei, Julian, Thomas and James.
Climb on the “Saint-Just” belfry
Besides of Fortica, you should take a climb on to the “Labin Belfry” known as St. Just. This 33 metres high bell tower built in 1623 on the site of the former Church of St. Just is per my opinion one of the best things to do since it’s a point whereas they say half of Istria could be seen.
Chapel of Saint Stephen
Located near the parish church and town gallery, Chapel of Saint Steven was built in the 17th century. Its beauty shows that the size of the architecture doesn’t matter. It is tiny, small, but art historians, more precisely its facade, consider as the most beautiful in Istria and one of the most beautiful baroque in Croatia. Of course, it’s a matter of taste, but many point it out as something exceptional. Stop by, and you’ll find the answer to why the tiny doesn’t mean less beautiful.
Take a look at the city loggia
Located in on “Tito Square”, which is the most often point for starting the tour when you head towards the townyou’ll notice wonderful 16th-century loggia. Located on the small square on the left the city palace built in 1555 was the city administration during Venice and Austria. It was rebuilt in 1932. Then, the lapidary side of the square was decorated with a part of the town walls.
The alley on the left is a small bookstore with a rich selection of native editions. Take a look and pick some of them.
Torjon Tower and defence walls
There used to be six circular defensive towers within the walls in Labin. The wider town area had to be fortified, including the lower part of the town and achieved in the period of 16th centre during the Venetian rule. At that time the bastion was founded right by the main town square. Amid all the towers to this day, there has been only one preserved. The round defence known as“Torjontower” is located at the very entrance to the old town square. Torjon Tower was built in 1617 after the Uskok attack.
As in front, we see the cannon apart two of the batteries from the Austrian rule period to belong to “Torjon”. The cannons placed at begin of the Italian rule were removed after World War II. However, this one was returned after in the mid-1990 s a battery. From this plateau, you can enter the city on the right through or come back. The lodge and the whole square are best seen from Torjon.
Take a look at the Labin palaces.
Labin is the town of the palaces. And you’ll mention them while you walk alongside the old city. One of the most famous is the baroque Palace Battiala Lazzarini, the town museum’s house. Another famed one you’ll notice first when coming to the old town of Labin is Town palace, located opposite to the town loggia and dating back to 19th century.
The palace Franković-Vlačić is a birthplace of Matija Vlačić Ilirik, and it holds the memorial collection honoured to him. Nearby the Gate of St.Flor is located Paetor’s Palace characterized by Renaissance 15th century before. Another Renaissance Scampicchio Palace is located near the parish church by which it is connected with a small passage. In 1582, the Scampicchio family donated part of their land to build a presbytery. In return, they received permission from Pope Urban VIII to merge their palace with the church, that is, to develop their secret passage to the church.
There are two Baroque palaces in Labin. Both Manzin and Negri were made in the 17th century with a highly decorated facade and atrium on the ground floor.
The church of Saints Cosmas and Damian
The last or first pictures of the Labin old town you should take at the exit from the village towards Rabac, where, right next to the road, is the church of “Saints Cosmas and Damian”. This church came dangerously close to collapse, but dedicated restoration work just a few years ago brought it back from the brink. For decades, cars and trucks rumbled past its ancient walls, shaking the stones and wearing them down with noise and vibration. Built in the 15th century by the Marquis Depangher-Manzin, the church still holds a quiet secret—his graves lie beneath its stone floor to this day.
If the great art historian Branko Fučić said of the church that it was a “delicate stone crystal”, he certainly had a reason. The church features a Gothic portal with a pointed arch and a bell gable—an architectural form still found in parts of Germany, but rarely seen in Istria. he church is different from the others because of theheight of the apse and the nave. It is extremely interesting for the frescoes and Glagolitic graffiti discovered by Fučić.
In front of the church, there is a monument to “Matthias Flacius Illyricus” a Protestant theologian, a fighter against the Roman popes which was a close associate of Luther. The memorial collection honoured to him could be found in Labinmuseum.
Labin museums
Besides, to be artistic, Labin is simple the town of the museums. Here we present those which you should visit.
The Town Museum
Located in the beautiful and picturesque Palace Battiala Lazzarini right opposite the parish church, the town museum (Narodni Muzej) is the house of the various artificial items. It’s divided on the three floors. Museum enthusiasts will see a lapidary with the stone monuments from the antiquity on the ground. The most interesting is probably the first written record of Labin with the inscription “res Publica Albonesium” from 3 AD.
On a mezzanine, there is Ethnographic collection containing folk costumes, pottery and regional musical instruments. On the first and second floor are fine-art galleries. There is a collection dedicated to the anti-fascist in Labin next to the gallery on the second floor. The central space on the first floor is reserved for historical 1921 “Labin Republic” that is just exposed to the modern Labin Art Republic.
Since Labin is a town of miners, in the basement and below the museum undergroundis a reconstructed mine containing original tools for digging coal. The mine is evoking hard life of the miners.
Matija Vlačić Ilirik Collection
This memorial collection shows life and works of Matija Vlačić Ilirik, the famous reformist and theologian from Labin who lectured at many European protestant universities. You will find this collection following his life, theological and scientific activities in the Town Museum of Labin.
A valuable copy of his portrait modelled in original Jena, which was work painted by Eugen Kokot could be founded inside the same collection.
The sculpture park, Dubrova
You shouldn’t miss visiting Dubrova Sculpture Park located next to Labin. Holding over 80 sculptures by Croatian and international artists, it is considered one of the most essential parts of this world. The sculptors were done during the International Sculptors Symposium which has been taking place for some 40 years.
Look at the Minery
Labin is the town of the miner. There were once three of the mines in the surroundings. Raša is the most famed, Tupljak and those in Labin, whose remnants could still be seen under the town.
In the 1960s, the ground under the old town sank due to mine shafts. Some collapsed under the causing cracks in many old buildings, so further falling of towers has been stopped. Today, the building, which was the miner’s entrance located under Labin, serves as the point for locals to promote culture. The “Underground Town” or “Kova” project is the local word used for the miner.
Labin events
Like every other town in Istria, Labin is also full of the events. Here we mentioned, however, the most recognized.
Labin Art Republika
Suppose you’re a lover of various artistic, music and performance events. In that case, you should visit “Labin Art Republika” known as the youngest Republic in the world. With a combination of the circumstances, the project launched to revive Labin’s historical and cultural heritage has been held every summer.
During the Republic, you will be able to visit numerous museums, galleries and artist’s studios. While in summer, Labin turns into a city of art and an open-air stage (Labin Art Republic), be sure to explore its magical streets of the old town. Feel the spirit of mysticism and antiquity.
Daily tours from Labin
Located in a very east of Istria, Labin area is very scenic and picturesque. Labin is surrounded by charming small towns, never far from lush green landscapes or the shimmering blue sea—so you really can’t go wrong, no matter which direction you choose. We’ve gathered just a few ideas here, though the area offers plenty of excursions waiting to be explored.
Rabac
If you enjoy walking nearby the sea on the walking ways that used to be called popular “Lungo Mare” in this part of Istria than you should with no doubt to visit Rabac. It is a well-known seaside resort and is only 5 km distant from Labin. It’s easy to reach by the linked road or via a walking path.
Rabac is full of the majestic pebble beaches spreading across several coves with crystal sea. It was a small fisherman village in the mid – 19th century. Due to the magnificent cove and rich Mediterranean flora, villas were erected. The place succeeded in becoming a tourist destination.
Though uses not be ancient as some other towns located on the shore, Rabac is the point in which you could take a short break from cultural and historical sightseeing. We could also call it one of those shore “artistic” destinations since its walkways would trigger creative acts.
Barban
Besides to be known as the place in which traditional “Race of the Ring” (Trka Na Prstenac) since 1696 has been held, Barban is rich in the historical heritage. You will probably not miss entering the city through the most famous town gate called “Vela Vrata” on the west side. The gate bear coat of arms of Loredan family dating back to 1536. Nearby of the gate is located the small church of St Anthony the Abbot dating back to 15th century and having Gothic frescos.
Barban is a tiny but hall of the medieval elements to offer such as smaller town gates with battlements, two towers, a former medieval prison and the circular one, now sacristy connected to the parish church of St. Nicholas.
Raša
This town located among the green hills attracts its specific architecture is the youngest Istrian town, built for the mining industry by draining Krpanski Creek’s valley. The foundations of the city were placed in 1936.
In the heart of the town on the square, you will find the church of St. Barbara, protector of the miners. The church is shaped like an upside-down miner wagon. The front facade is decorated with the crucifix made of rails, the bell is shaped like a miner’s lamp, and there is a small mining museum in the church. And this is where the mining storey begins, which separates Raša from other towns in Istria and makes it recognizable.
Kršan
A town with the medieval walls and gates used to have a bascule bridge is a well-preserved citadel with the stone tower located in central-eastern Istria. You can take a look the Church of St. Anthony the Abbot (Crkva Svetog Antuna Opata) dating back to the 17th century with having the organs from 1911, a work of the Czech artist Jan Tuček. Over the place is dominated the 22 meters high bell tower by the church.
Kršan used to be famous by the Glagolitic inscriptions excavated at the St Jacob’s Church (Crkva Svetog Jakova). It’s assumed the famous medieval document Istrian Divorce (Istarski Razvod) written in Glagolitic script was found here.
Lovran
Lovran is a magical town with traditional fishing past. If you’re a lover of colour and the small towns you should visit Lovran, located on the western coast of the Kvarner Bay, Croatia overlooking the island of Cres. The village of “Mustaćon”, the wooden decoration carving of a dark-skinned, moustachioed and bearded man with a turban, has many that to offer. One can enjoy walking alongside the Adriatic Sea or overlooking the historical sights such as St. John Chapel, St. Trinity Chapel, City Tower. Or one can walk Učka Nature Park from it.
Pićan
Located on the hill situated 360 meters above sea level at the site of the prehistoric hillfort reused by the Romans (who use to call it Petina), Pićan is known to be the smallest diocese’s centre in Istria from antiquity (524) to 1788. The diocese was founded by St Nicephorus. Pićan was also the seat of government during the Byzantine Empire.
If you are picturesque town enthusiasts, you should enter this town trough the 14th century preserved town gates where the hot oil and water were thrown on the attackers. The get to stroll the tiny cobblestone streets. Pićan has a magnificent view which will be uncovered only after you walk almost all of its roads. The killing view is extending “Ćepić Polje” (Ćepić valley). After taking the photos of this green view, look at the few churches in Pićan, such as Romanesque church and St. Rocco from the 17th century.
Plomin
It is one of the oldest Istrian towns founded in prehistory. Located 168 meters above the 3,5 kilometres long Plomin Bay, I call it “The edge of Istria”. You shouldn’t miss visiting this ancient town, dominated by two bell towers.The lower Romanesque one of the Church of St. George the Elder (Crkva Svetog Jurja Starog) having a stone relief is well known by 11th century “Plomin Inscription” written in Glaogiolitic script. In comparison, the higher one is part of the parish Church of Blessed Virgin Mary (Crkva Blažene Djevice Marije) containing frescos.
Plomin has a stunning view to opposite island of Cres and the hills of Sisol above it.
If you’re reading this article, it seems you’re eager to discover other Istrian places similar to Labin—true Istrian gems surrounded by magnificent landscapes.
If so, don’t forget to check out our blog post “Things to Feel in Istria”, to complete your sightseeing mission across the region.
Be active in Labin
If you enjoy cycling or trekking alongside magical nature roads bounded by green landscapes making one of the main tourist attractions of Labin area, don’t make your day time off since Labin has them all.
Hiking & walking.The beauty of the area enables joy full of the outdoor hiking activities, nor you want to wander historic stone streets with a small group (up to 6 people, to keep it personal) discovering abandoned villages or trekking by the sea. After both of them, we still recommend taking part in the local culinary culture of Labin that has survived and benefited from, the country’s many different internal and external influences.
Putokoza Hiking Tip: Rabac-Ravni-Skitača-Labin. Suppose one will ask me about the recommendation hike around Labin/Rabac that is stepping out of the usual routes uncovering all of the magics of surroundings. In that case, this will be with no doubt the circle tourthe hills and villages around. Whenever you want to hike scenic landscapes, hidden coves alongside the shore, beautiful and breathtaking views and abandoned villages…this route has them all!
A full daily tour will make you fill your batteries on with trekking alongside the stunning coastal pathway first and later will make you spend energy off with climbing to the highest point of surroundings, Skitača.
If you want less hike:
- St Lucia Pathway to Skitača (Start in Skitača village and finish on to the peak)
- Labin – Rabac and return ()
- Rabac – Prtlog
Putokoza Hiking Tip: Rabac – Labin: The path of divine springs. They say the water is the source of life, and the springs once meant life for the locals of Labin. Therefore, follow the path of divine springs that starts in the bay of Maslinica in Rabac or…just in the centre of Labin (depends on the direction you want to trek it).
The ascent from Rabac to the old town of Labin starts with the most beautiful protected natural landscape of the Labin region. You’ll see the springs of “Vrućak”, and “Blažićevo” is located next to a large waterfall. The streams will follow you along all of the ways. The “Pećina stream” overflow through the winding travertine barriers and spring is hidden in the mysterious Negri cave.
Just a few minutes from the trail, on the former old road that connects Labin from Rabac, are the remains of the Romanesque church of St. Hadrian (12th / 13th century). You should stop by Šćurak spring in the area of Podvinje located below the city walls. It was the main city spring, and its location used to be a large city garden where women carried water in heavy brents.
In the courtyards of their palaces, wealthy noble families built wells (cisterns) to collect rainwater. The village houses had their “Kalić (bar) next to a large worked stone on which Brenta was attached. The water supply network was brought to Labin in 1937 when the city fountain and the fountain on the San Marco promenade in the old town of Labin were built.
- Total trail distance: 3.4 km
- Tour time 1.5 hours
Cycling. Besides the pristine pebble beaches, a quaint old town offering gorgeous vistas, Labin provides a broad range of spectacular terrain for cyclists. What you can do? Cycle and explore beautiful areas of Rabac or Skitača.
The Putokoza cycling Tip: Rabac – Ripenda Kosi- Ripenda Kras. A magnificent trail starts at the end of, more accurate on its southeastern side just above Girandella Hotel. You can try to heat your muscles on a recreation circle trails with the signs and equipment unique for trek biking. This “Valamar Loves Bike” trail is also excellent for families with the kids and the adrenaline lovers since it has so many uphill and downhill parts full of curves. Take care since the trail could be dangerous if don’t reduce speed.
After that, you heated your muscles on as final take your bike drive up to the Ripenda – Kosi. The very hilly trail will open magnificent views to the island of Cres but is very demanding. We recommend it just for those who would like to spend the energy of. Or..you can always take your bike off and get wandering! Once you climb up, the village continues to drive and choose some of your descendants back to Rabac (via Ripenda).
Get kayaking and boat peddling. While you visit Labin/Rabac during the summer (also in winter), you have to participate in some water activities. A half-day small-group sea kayak adventure will allow you to enjoy the sun and the beauty of the Adriatic Sea’s pleasant blue waters. Besides, there is a magnificent view of the island of Cres. The route is often guided until the hidden coves that are shadowed by tall pine trees, giving a balance of sun and shade. Then, manoeuvre through the narrow straits and along the shore around Rabac, where you can joy your lunch on one of the small hidden pebble beaches. While you’re there, have fun swimming and snorkelling.
Winter or autumn fun? No problem. The only thing you need is to come down by to the shore put your kayak into the sea and enjoy sea-paddling.
Labin beaches
Though built on a hill, there is another place Rabac with having a magnificent archipelago overlooking to the island of Cres located just 5 kilometres far away from the medieval Labin. And yes it has stunning beaches with a crystal blue sea glittering.
Lanterna Beach
This beach with a Blue Flag awarded is located 50 metres next to the Casa Valamar Sanfior Hotel. If you are looking for watersport activities merged with seaside relaxation Lanterna Beach is one of Istria’s best beaches. There is plenty of fun one can do on the water such as jet ski and banana boat rides, whilst the beach remains a quiet and shadow with pines.
St Andrea Beach
Situated on a beautiful location just nearby the Valamar Sanfior, Pollux and Marina hotels, St Andrea Beach stretches the area from Rabac centre to the cape with a lighthouse. Combining nature coves with the facilities provided by being close to the centre of Rabac, this Blue Flag beach is popular with locals and visitors alike.
Girandella Beach
Being a Girandella Tourist Village, Girandella Beach occupies with no doubt high position in Kvarner Bay. The beach suitable for everyone: from active holidaymakers seeking windsurfing or boat paddling to those as the families with the kids looking for serious chill time relaxing in the shade of pine trees this Blue Flag beach is very accessible.
Putokoza Tip: You should explore these Beaches Further Away Rabac to elude crowds
In 2020 when the social distancing became popular, this hasn’t impacted the Putokoza since the goat likes to explore the lonely and nature beaches located far away from the crowds. Here we mentioned few of them, but of course, we didn’t uncover them all since some you should find by yourself and share with a Putokoza!
Prtlog Beach
Located in Prtlog, this beach is hidden cove full of nature and is one of the goat’s paradise shores. The utterly natural beach is not disturbed by the construction of any kind, no concrete, and no sunbeds. All of the nature lovers could enjoy the pebble located under steep descends into the sea and enjoy in the oasis far away from the village. After parking your car in Prtlog you’ll need to walk down the steep set to reach some of the beaches.
Tunarica Beach
Located on the tiny place of Tunarica this beach is for all of you who like goat enjoy a forest providing natural shade to the sea lonely surroundings far away from the crowds. With some parts of the rocks with a small hidden bay with a pebble Goat’s consider it one of those paradise beaches ideal for social distancing. The whole coast of Tunarica is dominated by the local small fishing boats in the clear sea.
Koromačno Beach
Another beach to elude crowds is located in Koromačno under Skitača. It is about 20 minutes of the car drive far away from Labin. This area has the beaches of combination in a pebble along a road. Still, later nearby pine trees will offer all of you want to escape and relax in calm. This incredible destination you shouldn’t miss if you’re going to be out crowded. No matter if there is the factory of cement nearby, this location seems to be stepping back in time.
Putokoza local Labin tip
After all the talk about Labin/Rabac, let’s talk about what to see more of Labin. At this moment below, we show you the best Labin Tips so here are the things you shouldn’t miss.
Eat & Drink. There are few of the features, pizzeria – restaurants in Labin. And all of them are of the same quality good. There are 3 of restaurant pizzerias in Labin. The most known I used to visit is „Pizzeria Napoli“, and it is located in the straight centre of the town on „Tito’s Square”. Like in every other Istrian town in Labin, you can taste cooked dishes with showing the historical and cultural influences from the past. Besides the different pizza types, the words usually served here are simple pasta or vegetable-based side orders. The typical Istrian menus are prosciutto and goat or sheep cheese, homemade pasta (Fuži, Pljukanci, Njoki) or a pizza.
Another new pizzeria „Rumore“ is located on a beautiful spot since it has a summer terrace looking to the shore. The pizzeria serves the pizza dishes right according to actual Naples receipts. Another two pizzerias we try, and we also like the same as those already mentioned are pizzeria Pineta located downtown and „Tutti Gusti“ located in Rabac. I suggest visiting „Ferali“ situated on the Labin area entrance while coming from Kvarner for those who are more loyal to classical restaurants. The classical restaurant is a lush of the traditional foodstuff, and I know I won’t fail to recommend it.
Getting to Labin
📍 GPS. Latitude: 45.098782 | Longitude: 14.115560
✈️ By Air. Labin does not have its own airport. The nearest airports are:
- Pula Airport – About 45 minutes by car. Serves 70+ destinations including EasyJet and Ryanair. From the airport, you can take a bus to Pula central station, then transfer to Labin, or choose a taxi/private transfer for the fastest option.
- Rijeka Airport – On the island of Krk, 87 km from Labin. Mainly summer flights by European low-cost airlines.
- Trieste Airport (Italy) – Around 140 km.
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (Italy) – About 250 km.
- Zagreb Airport – Croatia’s largest airport, approx. 230 km (3.5 hours by car).
🚌 By Bus. Labin’s bus station is less than 500 m from the town center. Regular lines connect major Croatian cities and some international routes (Munich, Trieste, Karlsruhe, Geneva). Check schedules in advance, especially for local connections. Several daily buses from Zagreb are available.
🚂 By Train. Labin does not have a train station. The nearest stations are in Rijeka and Pula. From there, continue by bus or taxi.
⛴️ By Ferry. Rabac, near Labin, has a small ferry port. Seasonal ferries to Venice (Italy) used to operate. No regular domestic ferry routes connect Labin or Rabac with other Croatian ports. The nearest larger port is Pula, occasionally offering routes to Zadar during peak season.
🚗 By Car. Driving is often the most convenient option. Labin is well-connected via highways from Slovenia and Croatia. Use the Učka Tunnel and the Istrian Y highway. Be mindful of speed limits and possible summer traffic jams.
🅿️ Parking. Parking in Labin can be challenging in peak season. Designated parking zones exist, some 10–15 minutes’ walk from the center. The old town is pedestrian-only, but limited paid parking is available on Tito Square (≈2 €/hour in summer). Rabac also has designated parking zones, with availability varying by season.
Labin tips
📍 Where it lies: Eastern Istria, above Rabac and overlooking the Kvarner Bay.
🚶 Wander: Old town gates, Fortica viewpoint, Loggia square, Battiala-Lazzarini Palace, and the narrow alleys lined with art studios.
⛪ Sacred corners: Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Stephen’s, and small chapels scattered around the hill.
💧 Hidden gems: Mining tunnel in the Town Museum, panoramic walks toward Rabac, and the trails connecting the old and new towns.
🅿️ Practical: Parking below the town walls; short uphill walk to the centre. Best explored on foot.
🐐 Putokoza tip: Visit near sunset — when the stone glows golden, the bells ring softly, and the sea below turns to silver.