Things To Do
in Pula
Pula sits on the Adriatic coast in Istria and blends Roman heritage with a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Its centerpiece is the remarkably preserved Pula Arena, a Roman amphitheater surrounded by limestone streets. The waterfront, markets, and nearby coves make it a gateway for seafood feasts and island excursions.
With a sunny climate, ancient ruins, and easy access to Brijuni and the Parenzana trail, Pula offers history, nature, and coastal charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a leisurely breakfast at a café overlooking the ancient Forum. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the Arch of the Sergii. Visit the Temple of Augustus to glimpse the town’s Roman legacy.
Enjoy a light lunch at a traditional konoba near the harbor. Join a guided walking tour that highlights Pula’s most iconic landmarks. Spend time exploring local shops and artisan stalls in the Old Town.
Dine on fresh Mediterranean seafood while watching the sunset over the Adriatic. Sample local delicacies like buzara and truffle pasta paired with a glass of malvasia. Take a post-dinner stroll along the waterfront promenade to soak in the illuminated cityscape.
Start with a guided tour of the stunning Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Learn about gladiator battles and the architecture that has endured for millennia. Capture panoramic photos from the upper tiers.
Explore the Archaeological Museum of Istria to see artifacts spanning Roman and Venetian eras. Wander through interactive exhibits showcasing ancient sculptures and mosaics. Pause for coffee at the museum café with views of the inner courtyard.
Experience dinner under the stars at an open-air arena event if available or at a nearby restaurant. Enjoy live classical music performances echoing against ancient walls. Conclude with a leisurely walk through the softly lit Old Town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $4-8 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Roman and coastal history
- Excellent seafood and olive-oil cuisine
- Compact, walkable Old Town with scenic waterfront
- Good base for exploring Istria and the Brijuni islands
- Can be crowded in peak season
- Some attractions have limited hours in off-season
- Roads in old town can be narrow and car access challenging
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gdje je WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Mogu li dobiti račun?" - Can I have the bill?
- "Govorite engleski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Živjeli" - Cheers
Places to Visit in Pula
Visit one of these nice places.
A monumental Roman amphitheater best photographed at golden hour when the light softens the limestone arches.
A well-preserved Roman temple set in the Forum area, ideal for architectural detail shots.
A triumphal Roman arch framed by stone floors and surrounding historic buildings.
Ancient open square with colonnades and behind-the-scenes corners for atmospheric street photography.
Scenic coastal promenade for sunset silhouettes and harbor views, with the sea as a natural backdrop.
Food in Pula
Pula Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hand-rolled pasta tossed with local black truffles and grated cheese; a signature Istrian dish best enjoyed in a trattoria.
Must-Try!
Rich tomato-based seafood stew, typically served with polenta or rustic bread.
Fresh Adriatic sea bass grilled with lemon, olive oil, and herbs.
Air-dried ham paired with local cheeses and olives; excellent with a glass of regional wine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, olives, cheeses, honey, and local ingredients; great for sampling and picking up picnic supplies.
Freshly caught seafood and daily specials, ideal for cooking at your accommodation or ordering seafood dishes at nearby eateries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Dobar dan' (Good day) or 'Bok' in casual settings; use polite forms when addressing strangers.
Dress modestly in churches; avoid loud behavior in pedestrian zones; keep voices down in narrow streets and while dining.
Stand in lines and wait your turn; Croatians value personal space and direct communication.
Safety
Tipping in Pula
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of about 10% is customary if service is not already included; rounding up at cafes or bars is common. Taxis often appreciate rounding up to the next euro or HRK.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, sunny days with long daylight; expect crowds around major sights and beaches; beaches fill up, so start early and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds; great for outdoor exploring and photography with softer light.
Mild compared with inland regions; some attractions operate on reduced hours, but city ambiance remains charming and quiet.
Moderate temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hikes, bikes, and outdoor markets.
Pula at Night
Hiking in Pula
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cliffside and coastal trails near Premantura with sea views and rugged scenery.
Graded trails and scenic routes across the island group for relaxed hikes.
Mountain forest trails with panoramic views over the Istrian peninsula; suitable for day hikes.
Historic rail-trail offering scenic cycling and walking between towns along the coast and inland.
Airports
How to reach Pula by plane.
Located a short drive from the city center; regular domestic and seasonal international flights, with easy taxi or bus links to town.
Approximately 100 km away; serves as a major nearby hub for international connections.
Approximately 170-180 km away; a practical option for broader European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with deep ties to Istria’s history and seaside lifestyle.
Large influxes in summer from Italy, Slovenia, Germany, and other parts of Europe.
Smaller but present groups attracted by the coastal lifestyle and slower pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national favorite; you’ll see local leagues and seaside clubs in summer.
Popular in Croatia and reflected in coastal sports culture; can be observed in local pools or clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pula.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in many kitchens—look for pasta with olive oil and vegetables, cheese plates, grilled vegetables, and risottos; don’t hesitate to ask for chef’s vegetarian adaptations or olive-oil-based dishes.