Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Medulin/Šišan Vacation Rentals

Bring your family to Medulin and Šišan in Istria, Croatia—where gentle Adriatic waves, sandy beaches, and pine-scented bike trails invite kids to play and explore.

Medulin/Šišan Vacation Rentals

Tips on renting in Medulin/Šišan

Getting Around

Discover the charm of Medulin and Šišan in Istria, Croatia, where your family can enjoy sun-drenched days by the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Medulin’s sandy Bijeca Beach is perfect for little ones to splash in shallow waters while parents relax under umbrella-shaded loungers. In Šišan, explore the lush pine forests and scenic bike trails, ideal for family picnics and gentle hikes. Both towns offer vibrant seaside promenades, delicious local gelato, and playgrounds, making every moment together in Istria truly memorable.

What to Pack

Pack your bags for a sun-soaked family escape to Medulin and Šišan, two gems in the heart of Istria, Croatia. For beach days at Bijeca Beach, bring swimsuits, water shoes, sun hats, and sand toys for the kids. Lightweight clothes and a sweater are perfect for exploring the pine-shaded promenades or cycling along the coast. In cooler months, layer up with jackets and raincoats for nature walks and local farm visits. Don’t forget your camera, favorite snacks, and chargers to capture every lakeside sunset and seaside adventure.

Must-Try Activities

Medulin and Šišan in Croatia offer families a vibrant mix of sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scenic bike trails perfect for exploring together. Picture your children splashing in the gentle shallows of Medulin’s sandy bay or building castles on the shoreline while you relax under shady pines. Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, or set out on a family kayak adventure around the peninsula. The region’s calm coves and nearby playgrounds make it easy for parents and kids to unwind and create lasting memories.

Smart Spending Tips

Planning your family vacation to Medulin and Šišan in the heart of Istria, Croatia, is a breeze with a daily budget of €120 per person or around €400 for a family of four, covering comfortable lakeside lodging, local transport, and delicious meals. Treat your kids to a guided cycling tour along the Adriatic coast with Istria Bike—"Family Adventure Ride" costs €35 per person and includes snacks and gear. For dinner, savor fresh seafood at Konoba Batelina, where a family meal averages €100, perfect after a sun-filled day exploring Istria’s stunning shores.Planning your family vacation to Medulin and Šišan in the heart of Istria, Croatia, is a breeze with a daily budget of €120 per person or around €400 for a family of four, covering comfortable lakeside lodging, local transport, and delicious meals. Treat your kids to a guided cycling tour along the Adriatic coast with Istria Bike—"Family Adventure Ride" costs €35 per person and includes snacks and gear. For dinner, savor fresh seafood at Konoba Batelina, where a family meal averages €100, perfect after a sun-filled day exploring Istria’s stunning shores.

Medulin and Šišan in Istria, Croatia, offer a perfect family-friendly getaway. Start your adventure at Bijeca Beach in Medulin, famous for its long sandy stretch and shallow waters ideal for children. Explore the Medulin Archaeological Park and visit the Vižula Peninsula, where Roman villa ruins await. Families will love a boat excursion with Medulin Excursions, offering trips to Cape Kamenjak, known for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters. In Šišan, cycle the scenic trails through pine forests or visit the charming local winery, Trapan, for a tasting. For an educational stop, tour the Church of St. Agnes and learn about its history. Enjoy a day at Adrenaline Park Medulin, which features zip lines and climbing for all ages. Dine at Salt & Pepper or Konoba 15 for authentic Istrian cuisine. Don’t miss the Medulin promenade, perfect for evening strolls and ice cream with the family.

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to see what Medulin/Šišan has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Locals in Medulin and Šišan often point travelers to Cape Kamenjak, a rugged peninsula renowned for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves, and wild orchids, where you can swim in secluded bays or sip cocktails at the quirky Safari Bar surrounded by bamboo groves. In Šišan, the tranquil Vela Draga Beach offers a peaceful escape with crystal-clear water and views of distant sailboats, while the ancient olive groves nearby invite leisurely walks and authentic tastings of Istrian olive oil.

  • Getting around Medulin and Šišan with kids is quite convenient, as both towns are compact and pedestrian-friendly. Strolling along the scenic Medulin promenade, families can enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea and easy access to Bijeca Beach, which is perfect for children. Biking is also popular, with well-marked paths connecting local attractions like the Vižula archaeological site. Public buses run regularly between Medulin, Šišan, and Pula, making it simple to explore without a car.

  • Medulin and Šišan offer a delightful range of family-friendly properties, including spacious holiday apartments with sea views, cozy villas featuring private pools, and well-equipped campsites like Arena Medulin Campsite. Families can enjoy easy access to sandy Bijeca Beach, explore the playful Medulin promenade with its mini amusement park, or visit the nearby Kamenjak Nature Park for outdoor adventures. Many accommodations provide playgrounds, kid-friendly amenities, and are close to restaurants serving Istrian cuisine.

  • A romantic weekend in Medulin and Šišan could begin with a sunrise stroll along Bijeca Beach, famous for its soft sand and gentle Adriatic waves. Couples can explore the charming Medulin waterfront, enjoying fresh seafood at a seaside konoba before renting bicycles to ride through the fragrant pine forests around Šišan. Discover the ancient Vižula archaeological site at sunset, then unwind with a candlelit dinner at a local winery, savoring Istrian wines and truffle specialties.

  • Bijeca Beach in Medulin is renowned for its long stretch of golden sand and open exposure to the Adriatic, making it a prime spot for sunbathing from morning until evening. The gentle, shallow waters here are perfect for families, while the lack of shade ensures sunseekers get uninterrupted rays. In Šišan, the wild beaches near Cape Kamenjak, such as Mala Kolumbarica, also offer excellent sunlight and a more secluded experience surrounded by stunning limestone cliffs and crystal-clear water.

  • The closest ski resort to Medulin and Šišan is Platak, located near Rijeka in Croatia. Just under a two-hour drive from these Istrian towns, Platak offers a unique experience with views of the Adriatic Sea from its slopes. This resort is popular for its family-friendly atmosphere, well-groomed runs, and the chance to enjoy both skiing and panoramic vistas of the Kvarner Bay, making it a favorite winter escape for locals and visitors alike.

  • Traveling within Medulin and Šišan is affordable and convenient, with local buses connecting the two towns and surrounding areas for just a few euros per ride. Taxis are available, typically costing around 10 to 20 euros for short trips, while bike rentals are popular for exploring the scenic coastline and historic sites like Vižula archaeological park or Šišan’s olive groves, usually priced at about 10 euros per day. Walking is also a pleasant way to enjoy the Adriatic atmosphere.

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