Just off the coast of Istria, you will find one of Croatia’s most fascinating natural treasures, the Brijuni National Park. This area is rich in pristine nature, history, exotic wildlife and relaxed island life.
In this guide, we’ll share what makes Brijuni National Park Croatia so special. From which islands you can explore, the wildlife you can expect to see, the best activities to plan, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family, or simply looking to explore more of Istria, Brijuni Islands National Park is well worth adding to your itinerary.
What is the Brijuni National Park?
Brijuni National Park is a protected archipelago located in the northern Adriatic Sea. It is just off the western coast of Istria and consists of 14 islands and islets, covering a total area of around 3.4 square kilometres. Despite its relatively small size, the park is incredibly diverse, blending Mediterranean landscapes, archaeological sites, and rare wildlife into one destination.
What makes Brijuni National Park Croatia, particularly unique is its history. Over the centuries, the islands have been inhabited by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Austro-Hungarians.
In the 20th century, Brijuni became internationally known as the summer residence of Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito, who welcomed world leaders, artists and diplomats from across the globe.
Today, the park is protected, allowing you to enjoy unspoilt nature while learning about thousands of years of human presence in one place.
Islands and main areas
Although the park includes 14 islands, Veliki Brijun (Big Brijun) is the main island open to visitors and the heart of the experience. This is where you’ll find most attractions, walking paths, beaches and facilities.
Veliki Brijun: The main island
Veliki Brijun is small, flat and easy to explore. You can comfortably discover it on foot, by bike, or using the park’s tourist train. Highlights include:
- Roman villa remains and ancient archaeological sites
- A Mediterranean garden with over 150 plant species
- Shaded walking paths and open meadows
- Saluga Beach, the main swimming area
Mali Brijun: Best for nature and theatre
Mali Brijun is less developed and occasionally accessible through guided tours or kayaking routes. It’s best known for:
- Fort Minor, an Austro-Hungarian fortress
- Open-air theatre performances in summer
- Wild landscapes ideal for quiet exploration
The remaining islands are protected and can usually only be admired from the sea during organised boat excursions.
Wildlife and nature at Brijuni Island National Park
Nature is at the core of the Brijuni Islands National Park experience. Thanks to strict protection and limited development, the islands support a wide range of plant and animal life rarely found together in one place.
As you explore Veliki Brijun, you can immediately notice how wildlife forms a natural part of the landscape. Deer roam freely across the island, often appearing along walking paths and open meadows. Mouflon sheep, hares and colourful peacocks also roam free throughout the park.
In addition, the Safari Park introduces a more unusual side of Brijuni’s history, where you can see exotic animals such as zebras, llamas and ostriches. This area is especially popular with families, as it offers a relaxed and engaging way to learn about the island’s wildlife and its unique past.
Beyond land animals, Brijuni is also ideal for birdwatching. Throughout the islands, you can spot species such as grey herons and little egrets near wetlands. Meanwhile, in the surrounding waters, dolphins are occasionally seen swimming offshore, and beneath the surface, the seabed supports a wide variety of marine life protected by the national park.
Equally impressive is the plant life that shapes the islands’ scenery. More than 400 plant species grow across Brijuni. You will find native Mediterranean shrubs and aromatic herbs, as well as exotic trees introduced during the park’s aristocratic era.
Best activities in Brijuni National Park
Despite its peaceful atmosphere, there are plenty of things to do if you enjoy active sightseeing combined with nature and culture.
- Ride the tourist train for an easy island overview
- Cycle the island paths, covering around 13 km
- Visit the Safari Park and see free-roaming animals
- Explore Roman ruins and the Byzantine Castrum
- Relax at Saluga Beach, perfect for swimming and shade
- Search for dinosaur footprints, with over 200 preserved prints
Water and outdoor activities
If you enjoy being on the water, you can also:
- Go kayaking around the coast of Mali Brijun
- Try snorkelling along the underwater educational trail
- Enjoy calm swimming areas ideal for families
Culture and history
- Discover Tito’s residence and museum exhibitions
- Austro-Hungarian military architecture
- Layers of Roman, medieval and modern heritage in one walk
How to visit the Brijuni National Park
Visiting Brijuni National Park Croatia, is easy, especially if you’re staying in Istria.
Getting there
- Boats depart from Fažana, a small fishing town near Pula
- The crossing takes around 15 minutes
- Pula Airport is the nearest international airport
Tickets and planning
Entry tickets usually include:
- Boat transfer
- Park entrance
- Access to the main areas on Veliki Brijun
During peak summer months, we highly suggest booking in advance, especially if you want guided tours or bike rentals.
The best time to visit is from May through September, as the weather is ideal and the islands are in full service. Alternatively, spring and early autumn are great due to fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Tips for exploring Brijuni
Make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, swimwear and a light jacket if you’re visiting in the spring or autumn.
Helpful tips:
- Hire bikes early in summer to avoid shortages
- Follow marked paths to protect wildlife
- Allow at least half a day, or a full day, for a relaxed visit
Discover Brijuni and stay with Solis Poreč
Brijuni National Park is one of those rare places where nature, history and tranquillity come together effortlessly.
By staying in Poreč, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the best of Istria while enjoying comfort and easy access to destinations like the Brijuni Islands National Park. Solis Poreč accommodation provides an ideal base, combining quality, location and relaxation after a day of island exploration.
