Best Things To Do in Pula

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

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

The Pula Amphitheatre is one of the city's main tourist attractions 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 Amphitheatre 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. Nowadays, you can stroll around its stands and arena, as well as enjoy cultural events such as the Pula Film Festival, concerts and football matches.

The amphitheatre is located near the centre of Pula and can be reached on foot or by public transport. Don't forget to buy your 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 approx.
• Price: from €14 for adults and about €8 for children under 8 years.

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 centre 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 period in Pula. You will be amazed at how well preserved it is, with its imposing façade of Corinthian columns and limestone structure. Inside you can explore an interesting collection of Roman artefacts and sculptures.

To get to know this temple and the surrounding area, you can join a guided walking or cycling tour of Pula, as such tours often include visits to historical sites such as the Uljanik Shipyard and the Pula Amphitheatre with a local expert.

Interesting facts

• Address: Forum b.b, 52100, Pula, Croatia.
• Opening hours: daily from 9:00 to 19:00 approx.
• Price: from €2 for adults and from €1 for students.

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

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

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

In addition to its famous amphitheatre, Pula is home to several museums that give you an insight into 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 prehistoric times 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 harbour and the historical centre.

• 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 am to 5:00 pm approx.
• Price: from 7 € for adults and from 3 € for children between 5 and 16 years.

Museum of Contemporary Art in Istria

Opened in 2006, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Istria is an important cultural and artistic centre 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 historical centre, near the Amphitheatre.

• Location: Ul. Svetog Ivana 1, 52100, Pula.
• Opening hours: Open daily at 10:00 and depending on the season may close between 19:00 and 22:00.
• 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 Istria's most important culinary traditions. Here you can learn about the importance of olive oil in the 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 more than 2000 years of history.

If you are interested in learning more about these local flavours you can book an olive oil tour of Pula. These usually include, in addition to a visit to the museum, the possibility of tasting 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 essence of Istrian gastronomy. This Croatian peninsula is famous for its Mediterranean culinary tradition and for its mix of flavours reflecting Italian, Austrian and Slavic influences. The market is housed in a beautiful historic building.

Inside, fishermen and cheesemongers offer high quality products, while colourful fruit and vegetable stalls are located outside. There are also restaurants and cafés where you can try typical local dishes.

If you are interested in learning more about the local flavours, you can book a gastronomic tour of Pula, as they usually start their tour at this market. And if you are more interested in wine, one of Pula's typical beverages, 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 07:00 and 12:00. 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 the population of Pula at the time.

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

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

Useful information

• 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 to 17:00.
• Price: about €7 for adults and about €3 for children and teenagers aged 5-16.

The Adriatic coasts are home to dolphins. So one of the best things to do in Pula is to join a dolphin-watching excursion. 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 home to 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 harbour and last for a few hours. The best time to go on them is at dawn or dusk, when the cetaceans are most active. Be sure 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. This makes it a perfect place for water sports such as diving, paddle surfing and kayaking.

Kayak 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 experience this by booking a night tour in a transparent kayak, and admire the marine life as you paddle under the moonlight.

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

Diving in the Adriatic Sea

If you are a diving enthusiast, you probably know that Pula's coastline 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 most of the year.

In Pula there are several specialised centres 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 diving spots.

Explore Pula's coastline by night paddle surfing

If you want to experience the serenity of the Adriatic Sea, one of the activities the city has to offer is night paddle surfing. This sport is practised on a board similar to a surfboard, but wider and more stable, on which you propel yourself with a paddle. You will be able to observe the marine life and the rock formations that adorn the coastline up close, and enjoy the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Adriatic.

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

This effect is most visible 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 snorkelling, but if you are more adventurous, you can book night tours of the Blue Cave.

After exploring this sea cave, you can enjoy a full day at Cape Kamenjak, where there are beaches, trails and picnic spots. 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're looking to add some excitement to your visit to Pula, Glavani Adventure Park is an excellent choice. It is located about 20 kilometres 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 for friends, family or couples. 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's always best to go prepared.