6 Best Nightlife in Istria, Croatia

Come here for the incredible views of the beaches below this almost floating restaurant bar. A modern, all-glass, multi-tiered venue, it offers excellent cocktails, tasty bites, live music, and space for group gatherings. But it's really the panoramic views of the sea, the sailboats gliding by, and the beachgoers just below that keep visitors coming back to this beautiful place.

Whether you come for the cold-pressed juices and delicious espressos in the morning or choose to sit and enjoy the panoramic views of Old Town Poreč at sunset, the Garaz's friendly seaside location cannot be beaten. There's even a small pebble beach right in front of the café-bar for easy sea dipping in between cocktails. Parking isn't far off from this hidden gem, but it's best to stroll the waterfront promenade to and from the bar. 

A small romantic café bar serving delicious cocktails, coffee, and craft beers, this intimate Bohemian-style spot is nestled down the steps of one of Rovinj's most charming streets. Cushions, pillows, coffee tables, candles, plants, and even cats create a character-filled experience that is quintessentially Rovinj. Your host for the evening will usually be the ever-welcoming Boris, a master mixologist excited to pour something you'll enjoy.

Set in a landscaped garden with a small swimming pool surrounded by stylish lounge chairs, E&D "Day and Night" Lounge Bar is the perfect place to hang during the day with a leisurely coffee or beer as you enjoy the views over the sea and beaches below. At night in summer, the lounge comes alive with DJ dance parties. During the height of the summer season, the bar also serves light Mediterranean dishes, ice cream, and other desserts.

The Adriatic may not be quite as warm as the Caribbean, but at the Havana Club—a spacious tropical-themed cocktail bar/café right on the harbor—you can sip a piña colada or a canchánchara (rum, lime, and honey). There's a great selection of more than 100 Caribbean rums and premium gins plus nonalcoholic cocktails, as well as iced tea and coffee. Kick back and relax in a wicker chair under a bamboo umbrella while listening to reggae. That's not to mention the real Cuban cigars you can puff starting at €8.

Take the steps down to Puntulina's terrace, where you can enjoy a glass of Istrian or other Croatian wine in a pleasant atmosphere yards from the sea, with light pop music setting the tone, plus amazing sunsets. And, yes, you can take a few more steps down, if you wish, to the rocks and take a dip in the sea before or after being served—this is where Rovinj's free public swimming area begins. There's also an excellent seafood restaurant on the upper level, which offers the same gorgeous views in one of the most romantic settings in Rovinj.