4- and 5-star hotels in Tar

Tar is a small coastal settlement on the western side of the Istrian peninsula, close to Poreč and the Lanterna peninsula. Its history shows Venetian, Austrian and Italian layers, visible in the architecture and place names of nearby Poreč, Novigrad and Rovinj. Poreč, about 10 kilometres south, has a UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica and a busy harbour, while the inland hill towns show a quieter, rural Istria. Visitors come mainly for the coast, the campsites and resorts around Lanterna, and for walking and cycling through the pine woods.

These hotels are villas spread across Tar and the surrounding hamlets of Vabriga, all with private outdoor pools. Several sit on Ulica Velog Jože and Velog Joze in Vabriga; others stand on Lokvarska, Istarska, Porecka, Rijecka, Frata, Bankovac and Vladimira Gortana in Tar itself. Distances to the centre run from 0.1 to 1.5 kilometres, so the sea and local shops stay within easy reach. With whole-house layouts, kitchens and pools, they suit families and groups of friends, and couples looking for a quiet base for exploring the peninsula by car.

Getting there and around

Tar is reached by road from Poreč, roughly 10 kilometres to the south, and from the Istrian motorway (A9) via the Baderna or Poreč exits. Pula Airport is about 50 kilometres to the south, while Trieste and Ljubljana are within a few hours' drive. Buses connect Poreč with other Istrian towns, and local services stop in Tar or nearby. Having a car is useful for exploring the coast and inland villages. Within Tar and the Lanterna area, walking and cycling are practical on marked paths.

When to go

The main season runs from May to September, when the sea is warm enough for swimming and most tourist facilities are open. July and August are the busiest and hottest months. May, June, September and early October offer milder weather, quieter beaches and easier access to roads and restaurants, though some seasonal services may be reduced outside the peak months.