This coastal Croatian town houses ancient Roman ruins, including a well-preserved amphitheatre. Visitors can explore Venetian-style palaces, enjoy seafront cafes, and relax on nearby beaches.
Pula, a coastal city in Croatia's Istrian peninsula, has a rich Roman history and Mediterranean climate. You can visit one of the world's most intact Roman amphitheaters, walk through the Arch of the Sergii, or admire the Temple of Augustus. The city offers beaches with calm waters, local cuisine featuring Istrian truffles and olive oil, and easy access to the Brijuni Islands National Park.
Pula's Roman Legacy
The Arena, a Roman amphitheater built in the 1st century AD, is a prominent landmark in Pula. It once hosted gladiatorial contests and now holds concerts and film festivals. You can explore the underground chambers and imagine the sounds of 20,000 spectators. Near the amphitheater, you'll see the Temple of Augustus, a Roman temple dedicated to the first Roman emperor. The Arch of the Sergii, a triumphal arch from the 1st century BC, marks the entrance to the old town and displays detailed stone carvings.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
While Pula's city center doesn't have beaches, you can find several options a short distance away. Go to Stoja, about 3 km from the center, for rocky coves and calm waters. The Verudela peninsula, 5 km south of Pula, has several pebble beaches with beach bars and water sports facilities. For a quieter experience, take a short boat ride to the Brijuni Islands National Park, where you can enjoy clean beaches and Mediterranean vegetation.
Istrian Culinary Delights
Pula's food combines Central European and Mediterranean influences. Try local dishes like fuži (hand-rolled pasta) with truffles, or brodetto (fish stew) with polenta. The nearby Istrian countryside produces olive oil and wine. Visit the central market to taste local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. For an interesting dining experience, go to Konoba Batelina in nearby Banjole, which serves creative seafood dishes.
Getting Around Pula
Pula is a compact city, and you can walk to most main attractions. For longer distances, use the city's bus network. Taxis are available, and you can rent bicycles to explore the coastal areas. If you want to visit nearby towns or beaches, consider renting a car for more flexibility.
Day Trips from Pula
From Pula, you can easily explore the Istrian peninsula. Visit Rovinj, about 40 minutes north, to see its Venetian-style architecture and art galleries. Inland, the hilltop town of Motovun offers views of the Istrian countryside and is known for its truffles. At the southern tip of Istria, Kamenjak Nature Park has a rugged coastline and diverse plant and animal life.
Cultural Events in Pula
In July, the Pula Film Festival turns the Roman amphitheater into an open-air cinema. The Dimensions Festival in August brings electronic music to Fort Punta Christo, a 19th-century fortress. Throughout the summer, you can attend various concerts and performances at the amphitheater and other venues around the city.
