Published on
August 18, 2025
Zavrsje is a tiny medieval village in Croatia that has quietly caught the spotlight by looking so much like a famous British city that film crews chose it as a stand-in for a massive movie. Tucked high above a shimmering green valley and only an hour from the city of Pula, Zavrsje has just 39 residents. Yet, the village’s weathered stone streets, ancient towers, and sweeping views turn a simple stop into a storybook escape for anyone searching for calm, beauty, and a taste of history in Europe.
Visitors are drawn by the village’s lovely curves and its rich past. Završje’s streets whisper tales from the 14th century, while vineyards and olive groves spill down the hills, creating a stage where nature and history meet. This quiet spot is only a short, easy flight from the UK, yet it feels miles away from the everyday, inviting travelers to linger a while longer at its shaded piazzas or on the sun-warmed stone walls that glow at dusk.
Discover the Medieval Charm of Završje
Završje is a living piece of history, first built as a hill fort back in the 11th century. Over the years, the village changed hands among powerful rulers, from the Counts of Gorizia to the Habsburgs, and later to the noble Contarini family. Walk through Završje today, and the memories of that medieval time surround you in the sturdy stone houses, the winding alleys, and the silent walls of the old fortifications.
The highlight of Završje is the fortified hill that rises above the village. Climb to the top and you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the valley below. This strategic spot once guarded the valley, allowing its defenders to spot trouble long before it arrived.
Završje offers a rare blend of history, peace, and natural beauty. Whether you are an avid history buff or simply love quiet walks in the countryside, the village invites you to step gently into Croatia’s medieval past, while the soft hills and fields embrace you in the present.
Završje’s Star Quality
It isn’t only the village’s charm that catches the eye—its uncanny likeness to a certain famed British city continues to attract Hollywood scouts. Narrow, cobbled lanes, soft-hued stone façades, and elegant old squares all persuaded a blockbuster crew to swap a real British city for the sweeter, quieter Završje. Now, the rolling credits give a wink to Završje, and the village nods back by welcoming a tide of curious filmgoers and postcard hunters.
The village’s film debut is only the opening scene. Završje seduces visitors with the same heroes: narrow streets and sunset-toned stone that practically beg for a camera click. Curious guests wander its lanes reenacting favourite film moments, while first-time guests drift charmed, uncertain where the fiction ends and the still camera-ready present begins. The merger of real and reel draws cinephiles, casual visitors, and those who simply follow the golden light of a sunset.
Walking Završje and Beyond
Završje’s petite size hides a generosity of wonders. Tiny squares glimmer with medieval details, while the surrounding hush is softened by olive groves and the shy whistle of the tramontana wind. Only a short drive away, the Limski Canal carves a sapphire dent in the land. Clear waters reflect grasses and cliffs, inviting kayaks, small boats, and hikers daring enough to trade film magic for living scenery. A few hours of paddling or a simple trail-side moment slip film dreams into the present, adding a second act to the small village’s quiet, sparkling story.
A quick drive from Završje gets you to Pula, where you can see the Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, as well as the elegant Temple of Augustus. It’s easy to spend the morning wandering Završje’s old village streets and the afternoon walking among Pula’s grand monuments, letting you soak in the quiet charm of a small village and the lively culture of a big city in one day.
If you love nature, Završje is also a great jumping-off point for the Brijuni Islands National Park. The park is a haven for wildlife, including several endangered species. Catch a boat tour to drift among the islands, where you can sun on hidden beaches, wander past ancient ruins, and stroll under fragrant pine and olive trees.
You can’t leave Završje without savoring the local food. This stretch of Istria is famous for its truffles, lush olive oils, and rich wines. Family-run konobas (taverns) and small bistros dish up traditional recipes, letting you bite into the real taste of Croatia, from hearty pastas to grilled fish drizzled with First-Love olive oil and paired with a glass of local malvasia.
The lovely village of Završje sits right amid picture-perfect Istria, surrounded by rolling hills dotted with charming wineries. Explorers who wander through the area can stop at the cellars, try delicious local wines, and hear the time-honored stories that bring the vineyards to life. Whether your heart beats for art and history or for incredible food and drink, Završje welcomes you with open arms.
Getting to Zavrsje
Getting to Završje is as easy as pie. A short two-hour flight from the UK lands you at Pula Airport, which is about a quick 60-minute drive. From the airport, you can grab a rental car or hop on a local bus, and in no time you’ll be strolling the village streets. Whether you’re on a short getaway or a longer journey through Croatia, Završje is a quick and accessible treat.
Traveling from somewhere else in Croatia? Simple! Drive from Rijeka or Zadar, or use the bus and train network that keeps the country well-connected. Once you arrive, the village is yours to explore at your own rhythm. Pause to admire the old stone houses, breathe in the fresh country air, and take in the stunning hills that surround you.
Conclusion: Zavrsje—Croatia’s Hidden Gem
Završje blends centuries of history, stunning scenery, and a dash of cinematic flair, creating a Croatian stop that’s anything but ordinary. The village’s medieval streets, rolling hills, and movie-set vistas are quietly drawing visitors to a quieter—yet equally captivating—part of Europe.
From curious history lovers to devoted film fans, and anyone who simply wants to soak in the calm, Završje welcomes all. It’s close enough to Pula and other Istrian treasures, so you can easily use it as a cozy base while you wander the best of the region. A visit here promises both relaxation and a dose of history, all in the same breathe of fresh, country air.
