What to see in Labin

Labin is a town in Croatia, in Istria County. It consists of seventeen settlements, which we will list: Bartići, Breg, Duga Luka, Gondolići, Gora Glušići, Kapelica, Kranjci, Labin, Marceljani, Presika, Rabac, Ripenda Kosi, Ripenda Kras, Ripenda Verbanci, Rogočana, Salakovci and Vinež. Labin is actually located away from the sea, but only 3 km, and one of its settlements – Rabac – lies on the coast and is the main tourist settlement of the town. In the past it was called Albona, and it is first mentioned in the year 285.

The town traces its roots back to the early Middle Ages (the old town on a hill), while the newer settlement of Podlabin lies a little lower down and relies on the other settlements.

Cultural tourism in Labin

Thanks to its rich heritage, Labin is a favourite destination for guests looking for cultural tourism and lovers of antiquities. From the top of the old town there is a view towards the sea, and you also have an excellent overview of the surrounding settlements, especially Rabac. From this hill you can see the Kvarner, Gorski kotar and Velebit, and the nearby green bay of Prklog. The bay has been declared a protected landscape because of its beauty.

In the past the economy was based on mining, which is no longer the case. The main economic branches today are the metal industry, wood processing, trade and, of course, tourism. Cultural tourism takes up a large share, but Labin will also be visited by passionate hunters, who will explore the wooded hills and enjoy sport hunting.

At the end of July and the beginning of August the festival „Kulturno ljeto“ (Cultural Summer), that is, a festival of classical music, is held in Labin.

We recommend that lovers of gastronomy visit the local restaurants to enjoy the specialities on offer.

Tourism and accommodation in Labin – What to see?

Although Labin was once a mining town, tourism has been developed in more recent times. The settlement of Rabac alone, which is under the administration of Labin, records over 1.3 million overnight stays a year. Rent a room or apartment in Labin and enjoy a well-deserved holiday.

Besides walks through the streets of the old town, we recommend visiting the City Museum with its archaeological and ethnological collection. Look at the model of the mine, which is unique in this part of Europe and shows the times past and life in Labin. You can also visit the memorial collection of Matija Vlačić Ilirik, or simply enjoy the wonderful view from the city fortress over Rabac, Cres and the surroundings of Labin.

Walking through the city streets you will see a colourful selection of small shops, lovely café terraces and stone blocks that take our thoughts back to the old times that have passed through Labin.

Nearby sights: Hotel Peteani, Labin National Museum, St Just's bell tower