Pula, located in the southern part of the Istrian peninsula, is a beautiful coastal city and a popular tourist destination in Croatia. It is famous for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, stunning beaches, clear blue sea, and rich cultural heritage. Pula has a lot to offer to travellers of all kinds, from history buffs and architecture lovers to beachgoers and foodies.
The city’s main attraction is undoubtedly the Pula Arena, an incredibly well-preserved Roman amphitheater that dates back to the first century AD. Visitors can marvel at the arena’s impressive architecture and history, as well as attend various cultural events and performances that take place here, such as the annual Pula Film Festival.
Apart from the amphitheater, Pula is home to numerous other historical and cultural landmarks, such as the Arch of the Sergii, the Temple of Augustus, and the Castle of Pula. The city also boasts several museums and galleries, including the Istrian Museum of Contemporary Art and the Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria.
But Pula is not only about history and culture – it is also known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can choose from a variety of beaches, ranging from secluded coves to family-friendly resorts. The most popular ones include Verudela Beach, Stoja Beach, and Valkane Beach, all of which offer a range of water sports and activities.
Finally, no visit to Pula would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine. The city’s culinary scene is a blend of Mediterranean and Istrian flavors, featuring fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional dishes such as Istrian prosciutto, truffles, and homemade pasta. Visitors can indulge in these delicacies at one of the many restaurants and taverns scattered around the city.
In summary, Pula is a perfect holiday destination for those who seek a combination of history, culture, beach, and gastronomy. Its impressive Roman amphitheater, charming old town, beautiful beaches, and delicious food make it a must-visit destination on the Croatian coast.
| Country | Croatia |
| Region | Istria County |
| Nearest Airport | Pula Airport (PUY) |
| Currency | Croatian Kuna: kn (HRK) |
| Language(s) | Croatian (primary) Italian German English |
| Time Zone | Central European Standard Time: GMT+1 Central European Summer Time: GMT+2 |
THINGS TO DO IN PULA
Here are some of the top attractions in Pula:
- The Pula Arena: A well-preserved Roman amphitheater, also known as the Pula Coliseum, that dates back to the 1st century AD and is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world.
- The Arch of the Sergii: A triumphal arch located in the heart of Pula, built in honor of the Sergii family in the 1st century BC.
- The Temple of Augustus: A well-preserved ancient Roman temple located in the heart of Pula, dedicated to the first Roman emperor Augustus.
- The Pula Forum: A well-preserved Roman forum located in the heart of Pula, dating back to the 1st century AD.
- The Brijuni Islands: A group of islands located off the coast of Pula, known for their beautiful beaches and nature reserves, and a popular spot for day trips and excursions.
- The Pula Aquarium: An aquarium showcasing the rich marine life of the Adriatic Sea, with over 100 species of fish and other sea creatures.
- The Archaeological Museum of Istria: A museum showcasing the history and culture of Istria, with exhibits on ancient artifacts, art, and architecture.
- Kamenjak National Park: A beautiful nature reserve located on the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, with stunning beaches, cliffs, and forests.
- The Pula Green Market: A bustling market where you can buy fresh local produce, seafood, and other specialties.
- The Lungomare: A beautiful waterfront promenade that stretches along the coast of Pula, with stunning views of the sea and the city.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT PULA
- Pula is known for its well-preserved Roman architecture, including the famous Pula Arena, one of the largest surviving Roman amphitheaters in the world. The Arena is still used today for concerts, festivals, and other events.
- The city is home to many other ancient landmarks, including the Temple of Augustus, the Arch of the Sergii, and the Gate of Hercules.
- Pula is also a popular destination for beachgoers, with many nearby beaches offering crystal-clear waters and rocky coves.
- The city is a cultural center, with several museums and galleries showcasing the region’s rich history and contemporary art scene. The Pula Film Festival, held annually in July, is the oldest film festival in Croatia.
- Pula is known for its vibrant food scene, with many restaurants offering traditional Istrian cuisine, such as truffles, seafood, and local wines. The city also hosts several food festivals throughout the year, including the Pula Fish Festival and the Istrian Wine and Truffle Festival.
FOOD AND DRINK IN PULA
The city’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its proximity to the sea, as well as the influences of nearby Italy and Slovenia.
One of the most famous dishes in Pula is Istrian prosciutto, a cured meat similar to Italian prosciutto. Other popular meat dishes include sausages, particularly Češnjovka, a garlic sausage, and Istrian ox stew.
Seafood is also a prominent feature of Pula’s cuisine, with fresh fish and shellfish being a staple of many dishes. Grilled squid and octopus salad are popular starters, while the classic Istrian fish stew, brodet, is a hearty main course.
Pula is also known for its truffles, particularly the white truffle, which is used to flavor dishes such as scrambled eggs or pasta. Local cheeses like Istrian goat cheese and cow’s milk cheese are also worth trying.
In terms of drinks, Istrian wines are popular choices, particularly Malvazija and Teran. Istrian brandy, known as rakija, is a traditional spirit made from fruit such as plum or grape, while biska is a local brandy flavored with mistletoe.
For dessert, Pula offers a variety of sweet treats, including fritule, fried doughnuts, and kroštule, twisted pastry bites. Rožata, a custard dessert similar to crème brûlée, is a popular choice.
Overall, Pula’s cuisine is a delicious mix of fresh seafood, cured meats, truffles, cheeses, and sweet treats, with a focus on local ingredients and Mediterranean flavors.
PULA NIGHTLIFE
Pula offers a lively and diverse nightlife scene that caters to both locals and tourists. The city is known for its stunning Roman architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant atmosphere.
One of the most popular areas for nightlife in Pula is the Flanaticka Street, a pedestrianized street in the city center that is lined with bars, cafes, and restaurants. Here, visitors can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the historic architecture of the city.
Another popular area for nightlife is the Pula Harbor, where visitors can find several bars and clubs offering live music and entertainment. During the summer months, the harbor is also a popular spot for outdoor concerts and events.
Pula is also known for its thriving electronic music scene, with several nightclubs and venues offering DJs and live performances throughout the week. Some of the most popular nightclubs include Uljanik, Aruba, and Club Montecristo, which offer a range of music genres from house and techno to hip hop and R&B.
Finally, visitors to Pula can also enjoy the city’s famous Mediterranean cuisine, with many restaurants and bars offering delicious food and drinks until late at night.
Overall, Pula’s nightlife scene is diverse and offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening or a lively night out on the town. The city’s stunning location, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience Croatia’s nightlife.
TRAVELLING AROUND THE CITY
Pula offers visitors a range of transportation options to explore its many attractions and surrounding areas.
One of the best ways to explore Pula is on foot, as the city center is compact and easy to navigate, with many of its attractions located within walking distance of each other. Visitors can wander through the historic streets, visit the city’s many museums and galleries, and sample the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
For those looking to venture further afield, the city has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and ferries. These options are convenient, affordable, and offer visitors easy access to different parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Another popular way to explore the region is by car, as there are many scenic drives that offer stunning views of the coast and surrounding countryside. Visitors can also take a ferry to nearby islands such as Brijuni, where they can enjoy beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and charming villages.
For those interested in exploring the region’s cultural and historical attractions, day trips to destinations such as Rovinj, Motovun, and Porec are popular choices. These destinations are easily accessible by bus or car, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Overall, traveling in and around Pula is convenient and easy, with multiple transportation options available to visitors. It’s worth noting that the city can be busy during peak tourist season, so it’s important to plan your travel accordingly.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PULA?
The best time to visit Pula depends on your preferences, as the city offers different experiences depending on the season.
The peak season in Pula is during the summer months from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the city is bustling with tourists. This is the best time to enjoy the city’s beaches, outdoor activities, and cultural events such as the Pula Film Festival and the Outlook Festival. However, the high season also means that the city can be crowded and prices can be higher.
If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting Pula in the shoulder season of April, May, or October. During these months, the temperatures are still pleasant, and the crowds are thinner, making it easier to explore the city’s historic landmarks such as the Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world.
Winter is the quietest time to visit Pula, with fewer tourists and lower prices. While the weather can be cold and rainy, this is an excellent time to experience the city’s cultural scene, such as the Pula Winter Festival.
In summary, the best time to visit Pula depends on your preferences. The summer months are perfect for beachgoers and festival lovers, while the shoulder season offers milder weather and thinner crowds. Winter is the quietest time to visit, with the opportunity to experience the city’s cultural scene at a lower cost.
PULA GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE
Pula is situated on a rocky coastline and surrounded by hills, with the Brijuni Islands located just off the coast.
The climate in Pula is Mediterranean, with hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature in July and August is around 24-25°C, while in January it is around 7-8°C. Pula experiences moderate levels of rainfall, with the wettest months being November and December.
PULA TRAVEL GUIDES
Pula is the perfect destination for some time away from home however make sure you plan ahead to not miss out on the best destinations and receive local knowledge. Shop for a good Pula travel guide on Amazon today and keep it in your bag during your stay.
