Istria Hotels

In Istria, as in most other reaches of the Croatian coast, it's basically a question of whether to stay at the big, impersonal resorts on the beach, with a full range of services and activities available, or at smaller, boutique, sometimes family-run hotels. Either way it's imperative to book ahead, as most places—big and small—book up fast for the summer months. Bear in mind that most hotels and pensions impose a surcharge—usually 20%—for stays of fewer than three nights in high season, since they cater primarily to tourists who stay a week or two. Hotels listed here are geared for the traveler who is looking to stay in Istria for fewer than seven nights in the same city. Inghams. If you plan to stay in Porec, Pula, Rovinj, or Labin for longer than that, a package tour company like the U.K.-based Inghams 020/8780-4400. www.inghams.co.uk.