Buzet
Istria's city of truffles — a hilltop town above the Mirna valley where truffle hunting, local wine, and a September street festival make the strongest case for visiting inland Istria
About Buzet
Buzet is a small hilltop town in central Istria, about 16 km from Motovun and roughly 40 km from the coast. Like many inland Istrian towns, it divides into two parts: a compact medieval old town on the hill and a larger modern settlement below. The upper town takes about 20 minutes to walk; the real reason people come is what surrounds it.
The Mirna river valley below Buzet is one of Europe's richest truffle regions. Both white truffles (Tuber magnatum) and black truffles are found here, and truffle hunting with trained dogs has been practised for generations. Buzet has built its identity around this reputation — and unlike some branding exercises, this one genuinely reflects the place.
What to See and Do in Buzet
Old Town (Stari Grad)
Walk through stone streets, past the loggia and defensive walls, and stop at viewpoints overlooking the Mirna valley. The scale is small but pleasant. There is also a modest local museum with references to the Glagolitic script once widespread across this part of Istria.
Truffle Hunting
Guided truffle hunting excursions with trained dogs can be arranged through operators in and around Buzet. White truffle season generally runs from October through December, while black truffles are found during much of the year. Most tours last a few hours and end with a tasting.
Subotina Festival
Subotina, held annually in September, is Buzet's best-known event and one of inland Istria's strongest food festivals. The centrepiece is a giant truffle omelette prepared publicly in the town square. The atmosphere feels local rather than commercialised: wine stands, live music, and residents filling the streets.
Wine and Local Products
The hills around Buzet produce Malvazija and Teran wines, along with olive oil, honey, and various truffle products. Small shops in the old town sell truffle pastes, oils, cheeses, and preserved products.
When to Visit
September and October are the best months to visit. White truffle season begins, the Subotina festival takes place, and temperatures remain comfortable.
Spring is quieter and greener, while summer stays noticeably calmer than the coast. Winter can feel very quiet, but the truffle season continues and the atmosphere suits visitors looking for inland Istria without crowds.
How to Get to Buzet
A car is strongly recommended — particularly for exploring the surrounding truffle areas.
From Poreč
Approximately 40 km, around 40–45 minutes.
From Motovun
Approximately 16 km, around 20 minutes along winding valley roads. Buzet and Motovun combine well as a day trip.
From Rovinj
Approximately 50 km, around 50–60 minutes.
From Zagreb
Approximately 180 km, around 2 hours.
Public Transport
Bus connections exist from Pula, Pazin, and Rijeka, though services are limited compared with coastal routes. A car is strongly recommended for visiting the truffle areas.
Explore More Destinations in Croatia
Motovun
Istria's most iconic hilltop town, 16 km south — walkable Venetian walls and truffle restaurants.
Grožnjan
Istria's artists' village — stone alleys, open galleries, and views across the Mirna valley.
Hum
The world's smallest town — a handful of stone houses and a preserved medieval gate.
Istria
The full region guide — hilltop villages, truffles, wine, and coastline.