INTRO 2018
Among the tourist destinations of Croatian Istria, Poreč is known as the multiple champion regarding visitors and capacities. In the last couple of years, Poreč has successfully transformed into an all-year-round destination, becoming a vital congress and incentive destination. The city is one of the oldest in Istria, but still shamelessly shows its youthful spirit, mostly through numerous festivals that fill the city with life. After going around Poreč you soon realise that there are tons of different activities, wrapped into a lovely package. However, the historic city hasn’t lost its historical charm and possibilities for exceptional incentive programmes.
NEED TO KNOW 2018
Poreč is a city of festivals. This year, there are so many announced that one can hardly keep track of them all. The most resounding will be Rise Up, which will host the famous Rita Ora in July. The Mediterranean Summer Tango festival is also taking place in July. For beer aficionados, there is the Lanterna Beer Fest. Street theatre lovers will appreciate the Poreč Open Air Festival. Festival Giostra is an acclaimed historical festival, where 250 participants get dressed in costumes conjuring up life in baroque times. There is also a lot of sports events, with the Volley Team Open 2018 as one of the biggest.
WHAT'S HOT 2018
EHF EURO 2018 / 12 –16 January 2018
The European Men’s Handball Championship will be held from the 12th to the 28th January 2018 in four Croatian cities – Zagreb, Split, Varaždin and Poreč.
- Venue: Žatika Sports Centre
Microsoft WinDays / 24–27 April 2018
Microsoft conference, the largest Technology & Business Conference in Croatia WinDays conference returns to Poreč for the third year in a row. The subjects of the WinDays18 Business conference are primarily focused on good business practices in the IT world.
- Venue: Valamar Isabella Island Resort
Vinistra / 11–13 May 2018
25th International wine and wine equipment fair. The widespread reputation of the leading exhibition of the wine and other autochthonous agrarian Istrian products.
- Venue: Žatika Sports Centre
DanceStar World Finals / 21–27 May 2018
DanceStar consists of the DanceStar World Qualifiers qualification tournaments, which take place in various countries around the world, and the DanceStar World Finals, the grand finale of the world tour which traditionally takes place in Poreč, Croatia.
- Venue: Different venues in Poreč
Sport Fest / 12–14 October 2018
Sport Fest is a sports fair, but also much more than that. It is an event that aims to combine the passion for sports with healthy lifestyle.
- Venue: Žatika Sports Centre
Crofish / 23–25 November 2018
CROFISH, the Fishing and Fishing Equipment Fair in Poreč is the only event of its kind held in Croatia.
- Venue: Žatika Sports Centre
BEST INCENTIVE IDEA
Istria Inspirit is one of the most innovative agencies in the region, bringing Istrian myths to life and presenting them to congress groups in an interactive way. You can experience the famous Iustitia, a story that took place in 1699, when a local bandit by the name of Domenico Furlan robbed the famous Poreč basilica. You will find out how justice was served in a 2–3 hour program, where you will also get to know more about local monuments like the Euphrasius basilica, one of the best preserved early-Christian cathedrals, which was put on the UNESCO world heritage list in 1997.
Read more at www.istrainspirit.hr
PERFECT GIFT
Despite tourism being the main economic sector, farming is also very well developed, as regional plant cultures thrive in the mild climate conditions. The main branches are winegrowing and olive production, which is why a bottle of excellent Istrian wine or some authentic olive oil is the perfect gifts to take home. We also recommend local spirits like “travarica” or “biska”, which are said to heal all stomach aches and remind you of Istria with their strong aromas.
BEST KEPT SECRETS
The aristocratic Polesini family that originates from Istria has left a significant mark on the history of Poreč. Among the family’s legacy is also the former Polesini villa, positioned at the perfect location on Poreč peninsula. Today, the villa is in the hands of the Valamar group, which thoroughly renovated it in 2010. Especially impressive is the luscious garden, which offers remarkable views and can host up to 250 participants. The entire complex quickly became a favorite spot with wedding organisers. The conference halls are on three floors; the larger Cardo and Decumanus can host up to 100 participants. For the most exclusive experience, 6–8 guests can visit the Polesini wine cellar and try some exceptional wines, while Valamar’s catering service takes care of the food.