One of the best ways to experience Rovinj without spending a fortune is to take advantage of its natural charms. Start with Park forest Zlatni Rt, also known as Punta Corrente Park. This vast green peninsula is a true paradise for nature lovers and active recreation. Admission to the park is completely free, making it an ideal destination for frugal travelers.

Zlatni Rt Park offers miles of walking and biking paths that lead through a dense pine forest. You can rent a bicycle in town (often hotels offer them for free to their guests) and spend the day exploring the park. Along the coast, you'll find numerous coves and beaches where you can sunbathe, swim or simply enjoy the views of the sea and nearby islands.

One of the park's greatest strengths is its diversity. You'll find both shaded paths perfect for hot days and open areas perfect for picnics. Remember to bring water and snacks with you - this will save you from shopping at expensive seaside bars.

For those looking for a wilder beach, we recommend Beach Gustinja. This picturesque, rocky beach offers crystal clear water and is less crowded than the beaches in the city center. It requires a short walk to reach it, but the views and the tranquility there are worth it. Remember to bring your water shoes, as the entrance to the sea can be rocky.

It's worth noting that both Zlatni Rt Park and Gustinja beach offer free attractions year-round. However, they can be more crowded during the summer season (June-August). If you have the opportunity, consider visiting Rovinj during the off-peak season - not only will you save on accommodations, but you will also be able to enjoy these beautiful places in a more peaceful atmosphere.

Remember that taking care of the environment is key. Take all your trash with you and try to leave these places in the condition you found them. This is not only a responsible approach, but also a way to preserve the beauty of Rovinj for future generations of travelers.

The heart of Rovinj is undoubtedly its charming Old Town, known as Stari Grad. It's a place where you can spend hours without spending a penny, while taking in the full atmosphere of this charming Croatian town.

Stari Grad is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets that climb up the hill toward the temple that dominates the town. Walking these streets is like a trip back in time - colorful facades of houses, laundry drying on strings, small squares and hidden alleys create a unique atmosphere. It is worth paying attention to the architectural details - each house has its own history, and some buildings remember the times of Venetian rule.

For lovers of photography, the Old Town is a veritable mine of inspiration. Every corner offers a new and fascinating frame. We especially recommend a walk at sunset, when the warm light gives the stone walls a golden hue, creating a magical atmosphere.

One of the highlights of the Old Town is the Church of St. Euphemia. This Baroque temple, built in the 18th century, towers over the city and can be seen from afar. Admission to the church is free, making it an excellent attraction for thrifty travelers. The interior of the church impresses with its rich decorations and works of sacred art.

For those who are not afraid of exertion, we recommend climbing the church tower. Although this attraction comes with a fee (€4 per entry, as of summer 2023), the views from the top are absolutely worth the small investment. The panorama of Rovinj and the surrounding islands from a height of 60 meters is breathtaking and remains in the memory for a long time.

The square in front of the church is a great place to sit for a while, relax and watch the city life. Here you can often find local artists painting landscapes or musicians making time pleasant for passersby. This is a great opportunity to feel the real atmosphere of Rovinj.

However, the Old Town is not only monuments. It is also a place where you can find inexpensive local delicacies. We recommend getting off the main streets and looking for small, family-run restaurants serving traditional Istrian dishes. You can often eat delicious and filling food for a reasonable price, especially if you opt for the dish of the day.

Remember that exploring the Old Town requires comfortable footwear - the cobbled, often steep streets can be demanding. It's also a good idea to take a bottle of water with you, especially on hot days. When planning a visit to the Church of St. Euphemia, remember to dress appropriately - shoulders and knees should be covered.

Exploring the charms of Rovinj's Old Town is not only a way to save money, but more importantly to have an authentic cultural experience. This is where the heart of the city beats, this is where you will learn about its history and modernity, all without straining your budget.

To fully enjoy the charm of Rovinj without straining your budget, here are some practical tips to help you save money while fully experiencing what the city has to offer.

First, consider visiting during the off-peak season. Rovinj is beautiful all year round, and by visiting in May, June, September or October, you can expect lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds. The weather is still pleasant and the sea is warm enough for swimming.

As for lodging, consider options such as hostels, apartments or campsites. They are often much cheaper than hotels, plus they give you the option of preparing your own meals, which significantly reduces the cost of your stay. Look for deals away from the center - they are often cheaper, and you can easily reach the Old Town on foot or by bicycle.

Food is another category where you can save a lot. Instead of eating at restaurants downtown, look for local bakeries, markets or small stores where you can buy fresh produce. A picnic in Punta Corrente Park or on one of the beaches is not only a money saver, but also a great experience. However, if you want to eat at a restaurant, look for those located away from the main tourist routes - they often serve equally good food at lower prices.

Transportation in Rovinj doesn't have to be expensive. The town is relatively small and most attractions are within walking distance. Renting a bicycle is a great alternative - it will allow you to move quickly between attractions and additionally explore the surrounding areas, such as Zlatni Rt. Park.

Take advantage of free attractions, of which there is no shortage in Rovinj. In addition to the previously mentioned parks and beaches, look out for local cultural events. During the summer season, there are often free concerts, exhibitions or open-air movie screenings. Follow local message boards or ask at the tourist information desk about upcoming events.

If you plan to visit museums or other paid attractions, check to see if they offer days with free admission or discounts for students, seniors or families. Some places offer cheaper tickets during certain hours or days of the week.

Tap water in Rovinj is drinkable, so instead of buying bottled water, take a reusable bottle with you and refill it at your accommodation or in public fountains.

Also, be sure to use local transportation if you plan trips out of town. Buses are often cheaper than organized tours and give you more freedom to plan your day.

Last but not least, talk to locals for advice. They are often the ones who know the best places yet undiscovered by tourists and can share valuable tips on how to enjoy Rovinj on a budget.

Remember that traveling frugally does not mean giving up pleasure. On the contrary, it often allows for a deeper, more authentic experience of a place and its culture. Rovinj, with its natural beauty, rich history and welcoming locals, is the perfect place to see that the best things in life (and travel) really are free.