Nestled on the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula, Pula is a picturesque coastal city located in Croatia. As the largest city in Istria, Pula boasts a fascinating blend of ancient history, modern amenities, stunning beaches, and impressive architecture. With a history dating back over 3000 years, Pula is renowned for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the iconic amphitheater, which draws thousands of visitors each year. In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Pula is also a popular destination for those seeking sun, sand, and sea, with the beautiful beaches of Verudela and Kamenjak just a short drive away.
We decided to call Pula home for our 3-day stay in the Istria Peninsula and here is what we learned
History of Pula
Pula has a rich and varied history that dates back over 3000 years. The city was originally founded by the Illyrian tribe of Histri, who were later conquered by the Romans in 177 BC. Under Roman rule, Pula became an important center for trade and commerce, and the city’s impressive amphitheater, one of the largest surviving Roman arenas in the world, was constructed during this period.
In the centuries that followed, Pula changed hands multiple times, with the city being ruled by various powers including the Byzantine Empire, the Frankish Kingdom, the Venetian Republic, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Each of these periods of rule left their mark on the city, and today visitors can see a fascinating mix of architectural styles, from ancient Roman ruins to Gothic and Renaissance buildings. During World War II, Pula was occupied by Nazi Germany, and the city suffered significant damage during the war. However, in the post-war period, Pula was rebuilt and has since become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
How to get to Pula?
There are several ways to reach Pula, depending on where you’re traveling from and your budget. Travelling by air, train, boat, bus, car – these are all options to get to this amazing city!
By Plane
One of the most popular options is to fly into Pula Airport, which is located just a few miles from the city center. The airport offers regular flights to and from major European cities, including London, Berlin, and Paris, as well as domestic flights within Croatia. From the airport, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to the city center, or rent a car and explore the region on your own.
By Bus
Another option is to travel to Pula by bus. The city has a well-connected bus station that offers daily connections to major Croatian cities, as well as international destinations such as Venice and Trieste in Italy. Buses are a budget-friendly option, and the journey can be quite scenic, particularly if you’re traveling along the coast.
By Train
If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a train to nearby cities such as Rijeka or Trieste and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Pula. However, it’s worth noting that the train journey can be quite long and may involve multiple transfers, so this option is not always the most convenient.
By Car
Finally, if you’re driving to Pula, the city is easily accessible via the A9 motorway, which connects to the rest of Croatia and neighboring countries such as Slovenia and Italy. The drive can be quite scenic, particularly if you’re traveling along the coast, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore charming towns and villages along the way. Car rentals are incredibly easy to come by in both Slovenia if you happen to be coming from there and Croatia. We chose to rent a car from AutoUnion through DiscoverCars.com and had zero issues at all!
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Pula largely depends on your preferences and what you’re looking to get out of your trip. We were there in early June and had a great time! The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. However, the most popular time to visit is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny and the beaches are at their best. This is also peak tourist season, and the city can get quite crowded, with higher prices for accommodation and activities.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed pace of travel, the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October can be a great time to visit. During these months, the weather is still mild, and you can enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more authentic experience of local life. You may need to pack a sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings, but you’ll still be able to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the city’s historical sites.
Winter is the low season in Pula, and while the weather can be chilly and rainy, there are still plenty of things to see and do, including visiting the city’s museums and art galleries, enjoying local cuisine in cozy restaurants, and exploring the surrounding countryside. If you’re a fan of Christmas markets, Pula has a charming one that takes place in December, complete with mulled wine, festive treats, and handmade crafts.
Where to stay in Pula?
Hotels
Pula offers a range of hotels to suit different budgets and preferences. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, you might consider booking a room at a high-end hotel such as Hotel Histria or Park Plaza Histria, both of which offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, top-notch amenities such as spas and swimming pools, and fine dining restaurants. For a more mid-range option, Hotel Scaletta offers a central location, comfortable rooms, and friendly service at a reasonable price.
Airbnb
If you prefer the flexibility and independence of staying in a self-catered apartment, Airbnb can be a great option in Pula. There are plenty of options available throughout the city, from cozy studios in the historic center to spacious villas in the countryside. Prices can vary depending on the location and the time of year, but you can often find good deals by booking in advance or traveling during the shoulder season.
Hostels
For those on a budget, hostels can be a great option in Pula. Hostel Step and Youth Hostel Pula both offer clean and comfortable dormitory and private rooms at reasonable prices, as well as communal spaces where you can meet other travelers and exchange tips on local activities and sights.
Villas and Rural Farmhouses
If you’re looking for a more peaceful and authentic experience of Istrian life, renting a traditional stone villa or rural farmhouse in the surrounding countryside can be a great option. These properties offer a range of amenities such as swimming pools, gardens, and barbecue facilities, and are often located in scenic locations with easy access to local villages and attractions. Some popular options include Villa Monte Serpo, Villa Sabatti, and Villa Aurelia.
What to see in Pula?
There are many attractions in and around Pula to entertain people from all walks of life. Here are some of our favourites
The Pula Arena
Perhaps the biggest and the most hard-to-miss attraction in Pula is the Pula Arena! This monstrosity dates back to 27 BC – Yeah, that’s right – we are dealing with a colosseum that is over 2000 years old here and is in immaculate shape. Even better shape than the one in Rome – and probably the best part is there are a lot fewer people to deal with. Back in the day this arena hosted up to 23000 people, allowing gladiators to show off their medieval skills! There is a cost to enter the arena, however, simply roaming around the outside allows you to see inside with no problems whatsoever. That said, if you do choose to enter, you will get the entire experience
The Ancient Gates
If you don’t get your fill of “old stuff” from the Pula Arena, don’t worry – there is more to see here! Pula has three ancient gates throughout the city; Arch of the Sergii (29 BC), Twin Gate (2nd Century), and Hercules Gate (1st Century). Arch of the Sergii is perhaps the most impressive with beautiful columns and rich architecture shining through.
The Arch of Sergii
Twin Gates
Hercules Gate
Wander around Old Town
Strolling through Pula’s Old Town is an absolute joy. The narrow streets and historic buildings create a charming maze that’s just waiting to be explored. The Roman amphitheater is a must-visit spot, with stunning views of the city from the top. Take your time and soak up the local atmosphere by popping into cafes and restaurants, and browse the art galleries and museums to fully experience the city’s cultural scene. You’ll fall in love with the relaxed pace of life in Pula’s Old Town, so take your time and enjoy every moment.
How long should I plan to stay?
The length of your stay in Pula, Croatia, depends on your travel preferences and interests. We decided to use Pula as our headquarters to explore the rest of the Istria Peninsula, so if you are planning on doing that you might want to be sure you have at least a few days. If you’re just interested in exploring the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, two days should be enough time to see the main sights in the Old Town, such as the Roman amphitheater, the Temple of Augustus, and the Arch of the Sergii. That said, if you want to explore the natural beauty of the region, such as the beaches and the Brijuni Islands, you may want to stay for a week or more. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how long to stay in Pula based on your travel goals and budget.