10 Hidden Coastal Towns in Southern Europe You Need to Visit Before Mass Tourism Arrives

Rising like an island crowned by the bell tower of St. Euphemia, the old town of Rovinj on the Istrian peninsula is one of the most romantic coastal harbors in the Mediterranean. For centuries a key port of the Venetian Republic, the town retains its rich bilingual Venetian-Croatian character.

Fishermen still mend traditional batana nets along the harbor, while the surrounding Istrian countryside is world-famous for white truffles, award-winning olive oils, and crisp Malvazija wines.

Exploring the rocky pine-shaded coves of the Punta Corrente forest park on a vintage bicycle provides the ultimate restorative coastal escape.