Best Things To Do in Pula

With a history dating back more than 3,000 years, Pula is a destination full of surprises. This city is home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, along with other archaeological sites that will take you back to classical times.

But Pula is not only known for its cultural heritage, but also for its incredible coastal scenery. Its crystal-clear beaches and Mediterranean climate are ideal for relaxing after exploring its historical monuments. So, if you are wondering what to see and do in Pula, here you will find a guide with some of its main attractions.

The Pula Amphitheater is one of the main tourist attractions of the city and one of the most impressive Roman constructions outside Italy. It was built in the 1st century AD, during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, the same emperor who started the construction of the Colosseum in Rome. Although smaller than its Roman counterpart, the Pula Amphitheater impresses with its excellent state of preservation.

With a capacity for 23,000 people, it was the scene of gladiatorial fights, hunts and public spectacles that were part of the daily life of the city. Today, you can stroll through its stands and arena, and also enjoy cultural events such as the Pula Film Festival, concerts and soccer matches.

The amphitheater is located near the center of Pula, and can be reached on foot or by public transport. Don't forget to buy tickets in advance, especially during the high season, as it is one of the most visited monuments in the city.

Interesting facts

• Address: Flavijevska ul., 52100, Pula, Croatia.
• Opening hours: daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm approximately.
• Price: from 14 € for adults and about 8 € for children under 8 years old.

The Temple of Augustus is another must-see in Pula. Dedicated to the first emperor of Rome, it is a symbol of Roman times in the city. It has survived over the centuries, even after suffering significant damage during World War II. It is located in the center of Pula, in the ancient Roman Forum, which is the main square of the ancient city.

It is certainly a key historical place to learn about the Roman era in Pula. You will be amazed with the good state of preservation, with its imposing facade of Corinthian columns and limestone structure. Inside you can explore an interesting collection of Roman objects and sculptures.

To get to know this temple and the surrounding area, you can join a guided walking tour or hire a bicycle tour of Pula, as this type of tour usually includes a visit to historical sites such as the Uljanik shipyard and the Pula Amphitheater, together with a local expert.

Interesting facts

• Address: Forum b.b, 52100, Pula, Croatia.
• Opening hours: daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm approx.
• Price: from 2 € for adults and from 1 € for students.

If you love history and architecture, you can't miss the historic center of Pula. The city is famous for its rich Roman heritage and its streets are full of monuments that tell millennia-old stories.

One of the best monuments in the historic center is the Arch of the Sergii, built at the end of the 1st century. It is located at what was the main entrance to the ancient city, and today is the gateway to the historic center. Nearby is the Gate of Hercules, one of the oldest entrances to Pula.

The most important building in the historic center is undoubtedly the Pula Arena, the sixth largest surviving Roman amphitheater in the world. Other landmark buildings include the Temple of Augustus and the Roman Forum, the ancient central square. Exploring the historic center will also allow you to enjoy the modern architecture that creates a very interesting contrast with the architecture of the past.

In addition to its famous amphitheater, Pula is home to several museums that allow you to learn about its history and culture, from archaeological treasures to contemporary art. Here are some of the most outstanding museums to include in your tour of the city.

The Pula Naval History Museum offers an extensive collection of objects related to military history, from prehistory to the modern period, including coins, photographs, maps, weapons and military equipment. It is housed in a 17th century Baroque castle and offers a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area. It is close to the harbor and the historical center.

• Location: Gradinski uspon 6.
• Opening hours: May to September daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm approx. From October to April from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. approx.
• Price: from 7 € for adults and from 3 € for children between 5 and 16 years old.

Museum of Contemporary Art of Istria

Opened in 2006, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Istria is an important cultural and artistic center in the region, providing a space to explore contemporary art. It offers a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs and installations by local, national and international artists. It is located in the historic center, near the Amphitheater.

• Location: Ul. Svetog Ivana 1, 52100, Pula.
• Opening hours: open daily at 10:00 am and depending on the season may close between 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm.
• Price: about 3 € for adults. Free admission for children up to 7 years old.

Olive Oil House

The House of Olive Oil is a place that celebrates one of the most important culinary traditions of Istria. There you can learn about the relevance of olive oil in both local gastronomy and the region and learn about the cultivation and harvesting of olives. It has a tasting room for local oils and its exhibits cover over 2000 years of history.

If you are interested in learning more about these local flavors you can book an olive oil tour of Pula. These usually include, in addition to the museum visit, the possibility to taste different varieties of oil and other products together with a local expert.

• Location: Istarska 30, HR-52100 Pula.
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday between 10:00 and 18.00.
• Price: between 15 € and 45 €, depending on the type of visit you choose. Children under 8 years old are free of charge.

Pula market is a must if you want to get to know the Istrian gastronomic essence. This Croatian peninsula is famous for its Mediterranean culinary tradition and for its mix of flavors reflecting Italian, Austrian and Slavic influences. In addition, the market is housed in a beautiful historic building.

Inside, fishermen and cheese makers offer high quality products, while colorful fruit and vegetable stalls are located outside. There are also restaurants and cafes where you can try typical local dishes.

If you are interested in learning more about the local flavors, you can hire a gastronomic tour of Pula, as they usually start their tour at this market. And if your interest is more focused on wine, one of the typical drinks of Pula, you can book a wine tour to visit nearby wineries and vineyards.

Interesting facts

• Location: Narodni trg 9, 52100, Pula.
• Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am to 8:30 pm. Sundays between 7:00 am and 12:00 noon. Please note that some stalls may close earlier.
• Price: free of charge.

The Zerostrasse Underground Galleries are a set of tunnels that were built during World War I under the streets of Pula as air raid shelters. They were later transformed into shelters against possible nuclear attacks, with a capacity for more than 50,000 people - the size of Pula's population at the time.

Today, you can walk through the Zerostrasse Underground Galleries to learn about this chapter of Pula's wartime history. The tunnels are 3 to 6 meters wide and 2.5 meters high, and some are used as space for cultural exhibitions and events.

There are accesses to these subway tunnels from various points in the city, such as the Hercules Gate. The galleries are also connected to Pula Castle, so you can take the opportunity to buy a combined ticket and visit both monuments on the same day.

Interesting facts

• Location: Carrarina ul. 3, 52100, Pula, Croatia (main entrance).
• Opening hours: in summer from Monday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. In winter from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• Price: about 7 € for adults and about 3 € for children and teenagers from 5 to 16 years old.

The Adriatic coasts are home to dolphins. Therefore, one of the best things to do in Pula is to join an excursion to see these marine mammals. So, in addition to seeing these fascinating animals in their natural environment, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Croatian coastline.

The waters around Pula are the habitat of the bottlenose dolphin, also known as the bottlenose dolphin. During the excursion, you may see them swimming in groups or even playing near the shore.

These excursions usually depart from Pula harbor and last a few hours. The best time to take them is at dawn or dusk, when the cetaceans are most active. Don't forget to book in advance, especially in high season.

Pula, located on the Istrian peninsula, offers privileged access to the dazzling surroundings of the Adriatic Sea, where crystal clear waters allow you to observe the seabed and its inhabitants. That's why it is a perfect place to practice water sports such as diving, paddle surfing or kayaking.

Sail in a transparent kayak under the stars

Imagine paddling a completely transparent kayak while LED lights illuminate the seabed, revealing creatures that only emerge at night. In Pula you can live this experience by hiring a night tour in a transparent kayak, and admire the marine life while sailing under the moonlight.

It is quite a popular activity among tourists in Pula, suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. They are usually done with a local guide who gives you information about the marine species, and provides you with instructions and all the necessary equipment.

Diving in the Adriatic Sea

If you are a diving enthusiast, you probably know that the coast of Pula is ideal for diving. From rocky reefs to underwater caves, every dive offers a new surprise for divers. In addition, the water temperature is pleasant during most of the year.

In Pula there are several specialized centers where you can book a diving baptism or get the necessary equipment. These courses are aimed at both beginners and advanced divers, and have experienced guides who can take you to the best spots to practice this sport.

Explore Pula's coastline by night paddle surfing

If you want to experience the serenity of the Adriatic Sea, one of the activities offered by the city is night paddle surfing. This sport is practiced on a board similar to surfing, but wider and more stable, on which you propel yourself with a paddle. Thus, you can closely observe the marine life and rock formations that beautify the coast, and enjoy the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Adriatic.

The Blue Cave, located off the coast of Cape Kamenjak, is one of Pula's best kept secrets. It is famous for the bright blue color that the water takes on when the sunlight illuminates the cave.

This effect is seen in its full magnitude between 10 am and 12 noon, but can also be seen at other times of the day. It is an ideal place to enjoy activities such as swimming and snorkeling, but, if you are more adventurous, you can book night tours in the Blue Cave.

After exploring this sea cave, you can enjoy a full day at Kamenjak cape, where there are beaches, trails and perfect places to have a picnic. Without a doubt, visiting the Blue Cave and Cape Kamenjak is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Adriatic Sea.

If you are looking to add excitement to your visit to Pula, Glavani Adventure Park is an excellent choice. It is located about 20 kilometers from Pula, and can be reached either by car or bus (30 minutes).

The park has rope courses , zip lines and climbing walls suitable for all ages, making it perfect to enjoy with friends, family or as a couple. It also offers activities with different levels of difficulty. There are also areas specially designed for children.

Safety equipment is provided at the park, but it is important that you also bring sunscreen and some food or drinks if you plan to stay all day. While there is a small cafeteria on site, it is always best to go prepared.