Buje was known as the "sentinel of Istria" for its hilltop site located 10 km (6.2 mi) inland from the Adriatic Sea.

A Baroque style Church of Our Lady of Mercy from the 16th century, built on the foundations of an ancient Roman temple, dominates the central square.

After World War II Buje developed into an industrial, cultural, and economic center of this region of northwestern Croatia.

Being situated on a hill, the old town section offers views of the surrounding scenery, dominated by Mediterranean flora, vineyards, and olive groves.

To its visitors today, Buje offers a blend of gentle Mediterranean climate, regional cuisine, and a quiet setting away from the more touristic Istrian coastal resorts.