Poreč: the old town and Euphrasian Basilica on a day trip from Bale

Updated November 4, 2026.

Poreč preserves Roman streets and the mosaics of the Euphrasian Basilica. A day trip from Bale takes in Decumanus, Marafor and the waterfront.

Along Decumanus from the tower to Marafor

Start your old-town walk at the Pentagonal Tower, at the entrance to Decumanus. The town gate once stood beside it. The tower took its present form in 1447, and high on its eastern side is a relief of a winged lion bearing the craftsmen’s carved names.

Decumanus leads towards Marafor, the site of the Roman forum. Beside the street near the square stands the 13th-century Romanesque House. Its façade combines a Romanesque double window with a wooden balcony added during later alterations. Restored in 2024, the house contains an exhibition on domestic life in Poreč in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The buildings of the Euphrasian complex

The Euphrasian Basilica belongs to the episcopal complex inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1997. The complex also includes an atrium, baptistery and bishop’s palace. The mid-6th-century basilica occupies the site of earlier Christian buildings, whose remains form part of the visit. The mosaics of the main apse rise above the altar area.

In November 2026, tourist visits are possible Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm and on Saturdays from 9 am to 2 pm, except on holy days of obligation. The complex is closed to tourist visits on Sundays, and sightseeing is not allowed during services. Visitors must remain quiet and dress appropriately for a place of worship. Pets are not permitted.

Back along the waterfront

From the old town, continue onto Poreč’s waterfront and along the harbour. If you are saving your swim for the return to Bale, our beach guide also covers Bale’s coast.

Distance from Bale: 37 minutes driving (31.3 km)

For: families, first time visitors, history lovers, art lovers

What to do: information, architecture, activities, recreation, refreshments, food and drink

Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč

The Euphrasian Basilica was erected in the 6th century, in the period of bishop Euphrasius and the emperor Justinian. It is the most beautiful monument of early Byzantine art in the Mediterranean.

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