Yes, but not hugely. Rovinj is pricier than inland towns, especially in summer. A coffee costs 15–20 kn (£2–2.70), a meal at a mid-range restaurant runs 80–120 kn (£11–16). Wine and truffles are good value. Self-catering in a villa is the smartest approach if budget matters—you'll save substantially by cooking some meals.

For a villa stay exploring multiple towns and the countryside, yes absolutely. Public buses work if you're villa-based in Rovinj or Pula and making day trips, but having a car lets you enjoy the Motovun Forest drives and country restaurants that don't sit on main roads. A car also lets you shift plans daily without constraint.

Road quality is good to good. Coastal roads have hairpins but aren't dangerous. Locals drive them routinely. Inland roads through farmland are pleasant and quiet. Parking in Rovinj old town in summer is the main headache; most streets are one-way narrow medieval lanes. Distances are short. You're never more than an hour from anywhere else in Istria.

Yes, but not in the ways some regions are. Istria doesn't have big resort beaches with lifeguards and kids' clubs like Dalmatia's developed beach towns. You get small coves and family restaurants rather than children's amenities. Most villages are walkable and safe. Beach time is feasible but not the main draw. Families with older children who enjoy walking and exploring do well here.

Atmospherically, yes. Many restaurants shut in November and don't reopen until Easter. The Bora wind can be strong enough to ruin plans. If you're seeking peace and don't mind grey weather, winter works as a retreat. Otherwise, September-October is a better compromise offering comfort and functionality.

Walk or cycle. The Mirna Valley and forests are gorgeous with marked trails. Diving and snorkelling are available near Rovinj. Premantura Peninsula has good coastal walking. The local markets in Pula and Rovinj are proper experiences. Cooking classes happen in Rovinj and coastal towns. Truffle hunting tours operate (autumn is primary). It's a region for eating, wandering, hiking and talking to people rather than structured activities.

In Rovinj, restaurants and hotels, yes. English is common. Older generations in villages speak less English. Most young people have at least school English. Knowing basic Croatian politeness goes a long way. Google Translate works offline and is genuinely helpful for menus.

5–7 days is ideal. It gives you time for the coast (Rovinj, swimming), the hills (Motovun, Grožnjan), wine and food experiences, countryside walks, and quiet villa time without rushing. You don't need more than 7-8 days to see the region's highlights and develop a genuine sense of place.