In short: in Funtana it is worth seeing the marina and the pine-shaded seafront promenade; it takes its name from a spring (recorded in 1331), and nearby are Dinopark and neighbouring Vrsar and Poreč.
Funtana is a quiet seaside town set between Poreč and Vrsar, with a marina, a promenade and beaches surrounded by pines. Its relaxed atmosphere and closeness to larger centres make it suitable for a peaceful family holiday. In this guide we go through the beaches, the area and excursions; if you are also interested in the Belgrade to Funtana minibus transfer, how to get there is at the end.
Beaches in Funtana
The beaches are mostly rocky and pebbly, with concrete platforms and well-kept bathing areas, in the shade of dense pines, along the seaside promenade. The sea is clear and calm, and a string of small coves along the coast provides pleasant shade. For sandy beaches and shallow water, families usually choose the south of Istria — more in the guide what to see in Medulin.
What to see in Funtana and nearby
The marina and promenade
The heart of the town is the marina with its promenade, along which cafés and taverns are lined up. Funtana got its name from the freshwater springs along the shore, and today it is a pleasant base for exploring the area on foot or by bike.
Excursions from Funtana
Funtana is ideally placed for excursions — immediately to the south is Vrsar with the Lim Bay and the Dušan Džamonja sculpture park, and to the north is Poreč with its UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica. Both are just a few kilometres away.
Funtana for families and with children
The calm atmosphere, the seaside walks in the shade of pines and the closeness of things to do in Poreč and Vrsar make Funtana suitable for families seeking a peaceful break. The well-kept bathing areas with a shallower entry suit children.
Where to eat in Funtana
Along the marina and promenade, fresh fish and seafood are on offer, alongside Istrian specialities — pršut (prosciutto), truffles and olive oil, accompanied by Malvazija and Teran wines. The choice is relaxed and family-friendly.
How to get to Funtana from Belgrade
For the Belgrade to Funtana minibus transfer we drive door to door, departing from Belgrade. Departure is at night, at around 23:00h for Croatia, so the border is crossed when queues are smallest and you reach Funtana in the morning. The journey is about 650 km, a drive of 7–8 hours.
The price is fixed and free of hidden costs — see the price for Funtana or the whole price list, and we also drive to all the other towns in Istria (Belgrade to Istria transfer). Before the trip, check the border crossings and live cameras too, and read about the whole region in the guide Istria holidays.
Frequently asked questions
What to see in Funtana?
The marina and the seaside promenade in the shade of pines; Funtana is above all a quiet place to rest, ideally placed for excursions to neighbouring Vrsar and Poreč.
What are the beaches in Funtana like?
Mostly rocky and pebbly, with well-kept bathing areas and concrete platforms, in the shade of dense pines; the sea is clear and calm.
What can be visited from Funtana?
Vrsar with the Lim Bay and the Dušan Džamonja sculpture park, as well as Poreč with its UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica — both are very close.
Is Funtana good for children?
It is — the calm atmosphere, the seaside walks and the well-kept bathing areas with a shallower entry make it suitable for a peaceful family holiday.
When is the best time for Funtana?
The bathing season runs from late May to mid-September, and the warmest sea and liveliest atmosphere are in July and August. June and September are quieter and better value.
How many days to set aside for Funtana?
A long weekend is enough for the quiet town, and as a base for excursions to Poreč and Vrsar it is nice to stay four to seven days.
How far is Funtana from Belgrade?
About 650 km, a drive of 7–8 hours. With a night departure from Belgrade (around 23:00h), you reach Funtana in the morning.
