Runke

You will find Runke on most lists of Croatia’s best beaches, and the photos are not misleading.

Good to know

Runke stands in Istria, one of the six regions that make up the Croatia most visitors fall for. From the Adriatic shore to the karst mountains and the quiet inland valleys, this part of the country gives you something worth the detour.

Midday in July is the busy, hot, expensive hour. Aim for before 9 or after 5, and pack water shoes for the pebbles.

Practical info

• Entry: look up the current price and opening hours before you go. Both change through the year, and a few spots close completely out of season.
• How to get there: Tap the map above for exact directions. In Croatian towns parking is usually signposted and paid, look for the blue P zones. If you are island hopping, leave buffer time for the ferries.

Best time to visit

For Runke, May to October is the dependable window. June and September are ideal, warm and lighter on crowds than July and August. In winter the country turns quieter and cheaper, especially in the inland cities.

This is part of an open Croatia library by Photograph by John, real places, real maps, no paywall. Share it if it was useful.