Buzet Istria Guide – Truffle & Wine Capital Of Croatia

As someone who lives in Croatia and has visited Buzet numerous times, I can confidently say that this small town in the Istria region is a hidden gem worth exploring. 

Famed for its wine and truffle culture, the town of Buzet is a haven for nature-loving foodies. Imagine wandering through the town, where the legacy of Venetian rule is etched in every corner, from the large gate welcoming you into a world of historic charm to the small gate leading you into quaint, cobblestone streets.

Buzet is the place where white truffles reign supreme. Whether you’re here for a short trip or a longer stay, the Truffle Days festival is something you wouldn’t want to miss. This event celebrates the town’s rich truffle heritage and offers a perfect opportunity for you to indulge in this exquisite local delicacy.

So, are you planning to visit this cute truffle capital of Croatia? You’re in the right place! In this comprehensive Buzet travel guide, I’ll share all the insider tips and must-knows to ensure you have an immersive and unforgettable experience in Buzet. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide is packed with practical advice to help you explore the town like a local.

Let’s take a step back in time and explore the rich history of Buzet, Croatia. 

Humans have been calling this area home for centuries. We’re talking way back—prehistoric times. Archaeological discoveries in the caves here confirm that people have been living in this region for ages.

Let’s fast forward a bit to the Bronze Age, roughly from 3300 BC to 1200 BC. This is when the first known settlements appeared. Illyrian tribes set up shop on the hilltops, marking the beginning of Buzet’s history. Then, in 177 AD, the Romans came along and took control.

But there’s more to the story. After a period of Byzantine rule, Buzet found itself under the authority of Frankish rulers around the 8th century. Things took an interesting turn in 1421 when the local elite decided to pledge their loyalty to the Patriarchate of Aquelia. This loyalty lasted for quite a while, all the way up to the late 18th century.

Now, let’s jump ahead to 1797, when the Venetian Republic fell apart. Buzet, along with the rest of Istria, came under Habsburg rule, which lasted until 1918. After that, Buzet had a bit of a geopolitical shuffle, becoming a part of Italy and later Yugoslavia.

Today, Buzet thrives within the borders of Croatia. So, when you visit this charming town, keep in mind that you’re walking in the footsteps of ancient tribes, Romans, Frankish rulers, and more who have all left their mark on this beautiful place. History buffs, get ready for a fascinating journey!

Best Things To Do In Buzet

1. Eat Local Delicacies At Konoba Vrh

One of the Buzet hidden gems, Konoba Vrh, is the best option for those who want to try the unique Buzet cuisine. The establishment boasts a rich menu and an exquisite atmosphere with a mix of local elements and a modern aura.

The restaurant’s menu features various items that every traveler should give a try to have a complete Buzet experience. Among them is homemade bread, which offers a delicious eat thanks to its unique taste.

Truffle dishes are a must-try local delicacy made of the region’s signature Istrian truffles. Since Istria is the truffle capital of the world, you should expect to see many dishes with truffles in Croatia. At Konoba Vrh, you can try pasta with truffles made of local Croatian truffles and their homemade pasta.

Asparagus ice cream is another highly unique and unusual delicacy on Konoba Vrh’s menu that those looking for a new experience should try. However, if you’re not a fan of vegetables as dessert, don’t worry; the establishment offers brownies and all kinds of typical desserts.

We must highlight the – possibly – best food on the restaurant’s menu: Istrian Boskarin steak. It’s basically a steak made of beef from the Istrian cattle breed, Boškarin. “What is the difference between a Boskarin steak and a regular steak?” you might ask. Istrian steak has distinct flavors and a unique texture, which makes it a perfect choice for true steak lovers. Also, the way Konoba Vrh makes it, with special spices and truffles, is a must-try.

If you’re feeling hungry and curious already, you shouldn’t forget to make a reservation at the restaurant. Since Konoba Vrh is a popular establishment in the area, you might want to book a table in order to secure your meal.

2. Make Lively Memories Hunting Truffle

Truffle is the fruiting body of various fungi. Since it’s considered a rare delicacy, some truffle species are sold at high prices and regarded as diamonds in the kitchen.

While the food is popular in many European countries, Buzet is the genuine truffle capital with its own economy and cuisine based on the mushroom. There are even several Buzet festivals dedicated to truffles.

So, hunting truffles is the perfect activity to make lively memories with your loved ones or have some alone time in nature – it can even help you explore Buzet and its surroundings.

A few weeks ago, we embarked on a truffle hunt adventure with a group of friends that included five kids and six adults. Let me tell you, it was an absolute blast!

We were all out in the woods, following our trusty dog, who was on the hunt for those elusive truffles. Along the way, our truffle hunting guide is dropping some serious knowledge about these fungi treasures, and we’re all crossing our fingers, hoping to stumble upon a big one.

Alas, we only ended up finding a mini truffle, but the thrill of the chase was worth it.

After our truffle-hunting escapade, we headed back to the Karlic tasting room. There, they whipped up some delectable truffle eggs for us and laid out generous platters of food. Of course, we couldn’t forget the wine – a perfect pairing for our truffle feast. But that’s not all; they even gave us a demonstration of how to make fritule, those delightful Croatian pastries. We spent a few hours indulging in good food, good company, and some newfound culinary skills.

Before calling it a day, we couldn’t resist a little shopping spree in the souvenir and sales room, snagging a few truffle-themed mementos to remind us of our truffle-hunting adventure. It was the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable day of fun and flavor.

3. Taste Buzet Wine Styles

The Istrian Peninsula boasts over 200 wineries, with a bunch of them in Buzet. Produced with local ingredients, local Buzet wines differ from mass-produced wines with a unique taste and texture.

Since local wine is favored and celebrated, we can say that Buzet has a rich wine culture. Residents of Buzet enjoy their wine during dinner and gatherings, using the delicacy as a way to connect with friends and family.

If you’re a culinary enthusiast, you should add tasting rosé and red wines to your itinerary in Buzet. You can purchase local brands at markets, wine shops, or – even better – during organized trips to wineries so you can take them home as souvenirs.

4. Go On A Bike Through The Wine Region

Istria is among the most gorgeous corners of Croatia, and Buzet, with verdant greenery and stunning scenery, is its hidden gem. That’s why most Buzet outdoor activities revolve around discovering the region’s lush nature.

While hiking throughout Buzet’s mountains and coastline is the perfect activity, it’s true that there are too many places to visit on foot. Thankfully, you can always join a bike hike to explore Buzet hiking trails faster and more conveniently.

A bike tour is ideal for adventurous solo travelers, romantic couples, and families looking for Buzet family-friendly tours. With an experienced tour guide, you can see the most exciting locations within Buzet’s pristine nature. If you’re lucky, you can also taste the iconic red and white wines and local Istrian dishes along the way.

5. Explore The Old Town Of Buzet

Park your car and explore Buzet and the town square by ticking off these must-see sights in the Old Town on foot:

1. Baroque House: notable for its portal and fence, finished in 1741, showcasing baroque architectural style
2. Bembo Palace: built in 1728, this palace houses Captain Vicenzo Bamba’s coat of arms, a slice of local history
3. Blessed Virgin Mary’s Parish Church: admire the church’s valuable equipment and treasury, including Gaetano Callido’s organs from 1787
4. De Vertiis Palace: constructed in 1629, it features a nobleman’s coat of arms and an inscription
5. Fontik: once a Venice storehouse for wheat, built in 1534 and renovated in 1587, it now serves as a public hall
6. Lapidarium: discover the collection of historical plaques, inscriptions, coats of arms, and an ancient well
7. Mala Šterna (Small Well): explore the history of this well, renovated between 1517 and 1563
8. Mala Vrata (Small Gate): completed in 1592, this gate is a symbol of Buzet’s rich history
9. Manneristic Portal: a 17th-century portal adorned with a count’s emblem, showcasing the era’s artistic style
10. Parish Palace: visit the site of a 16th-century fortress, transformed into a palace in the 17th century by the Flego family
11. Regional Museum (Bigatto Palace): founded in 1639, it features archeological and ethnological collections, an old kitchen, and a gallery for exhibitions
12. Renaissance House: step back in time with this mid-16th-century house
13. Renaissance Tower: explore this part of the fortress, offering a glimpse into Buzet’s storied past
14. South Bulwark: witness the 16th-century bulwark, renovated in 1699, showcasing Captain Andrea Erizzo’s coat of arms
15. St. George’s Church: finished in 1611, the Church of St George houses valuable gold altars from the 17th century and wood-carved pews by a local artist
16. St. Vid’s Chapel: a chapel from the Middle Ages in the cemetery, known for its relief of St. Vid, the impressive bell tower from the 15th century, and historical inscriptions
17. The Bell Tower: Rebuilt in 1897, it houses a Glagolitic-inscribed bell from 1541
18. Vela Šterna (Large Well): built in 1788/1789, this well features rococo-style fencing and a relief of a Venice lion
19. Vela Vrata (Large Gate): admire the craftsmanship of this gate, built in 1547, featuring a remarkable relief of St. George
20. Venice Storehouse: visit this 1514-built storehouse, renovated in 1796, showcasing Capitano de Raspo’s coats of arms

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Famous Festivals In Buzet

Buzet might be a small town, yet its unique and lively culture is unmatched, which residents of Buzet celebrate through various local festivals. Two of the most famous festivals in Buzet are the Truffle Festival and Subotina Festival.

Truffle Festival

Truffle and truffle-based dishes – such as truffle pasta – play a significant role in Buzet culture. As a result, townspeople celebrate this pricey delicacy by holding truffle festivals.

During this festival, you can taste and buy local truffles, enjoy various dishes, and immerse in the town’s unique culture.

Subotina Festival

Thanks to the fabulous fall atmosphere and exciting festivals, September is the best time to visit Buzet. If you happen to be around at the beginning of September, you can attend Subotina Festival, which celebrates the town life in the 19th century.

Subotina Festival welcomes people of all ages and amazes them with various activities, from tasting local dishes to watching stunning performances. The festival is among the most interesting Buzet attractions, serving as a perfect way to celebrate the town’s heritage and attract more visitors.

Best Places To Stay In Istria

Hotel Vela Vrata 

Hotel Vela Vrata, a boutique hotel lying before a majestic forest, is among the best Buzet accommodations. The establishment is only a few steps from the historical city gate, Mala Vrata, and 4 kilometers from the natural wonder Sopot Waterfall.

Antique furniture decorates the hotel’s rooms, designed with everything a modern traveler needs, from flat-screen TVs to mini-fridges. The hotel offers its visitors a cozy sauna and relaxing spa. On the hotel’s terrace is a classy restaurant with spectacular forest views and a rich menu boasting local and international delicacies.

For shopping enthusiasts, the hotel is surrounded by several truffle shops. As Hotel Vela Vrata is set near the old town, various museums and towers are within walking distance.

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Hotel Fontana 

Hotel Fontana is another popular option among the best hotels in Buzet. Lying at the foot of Buzet’s old town, the hotel is known for its elegant design and convenient amenities.

The hotel’s prime location makes it the perfect base for travelers seeking to explore the Istria’s pearl, Buzet. The well-situated establishment is only 8 km from the Glagolitic Alley memorial and around 24 km from Holy Trinity Church.

Like most Buzet hotels, Fontana provides exciting activities, like truffle hunting trips. Besides, visitors can enjoy complimentary breakfast featuring both local and international dishes. Also, travelers can use the hotel’s restaurant on the terrace to have lunch or dinner with a myriad of food options.

Hotel Fontana’s well-decorated rooms boast balconies with stunning scenery and all the necessary amenities, from flat-screen TVs to air conditioners. As a pet-friendly business, Hotel Fontana welcomes travelers’ animal friends.

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