Pula travel guide

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Introduction to Pula

Pula, known for its incredible Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus, and Forum Square, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This city in Istria County, Croatia, has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 57.1 thousand people, Pula is truly one of the main highlights of Croatia.

Easily accessible from the Pula airport, Pula is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Croatia. Travelers looking to experience the best of Croatia often choose to stay in Pula.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the town of Pula below!

History of Pula

Pula, a jewel nestled in {placeCity}, boasts a rich and fascinating history dating back to the ancient Romans. The city was once a strategic location for the Romans, and their influence is evident in Pula's architectural landscape.

The iconic Arena, one of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, stands as a testament to Pula’s past grandeur. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Pula underwent various transformations under Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Habsburg rule.

In the 20th century, it was part of Italy before being incorporated into Yugoslavia after World War II. Today, Pula is a part of Croatia and is cherished for its blend of historic charm and modern attractions.

The city's layered past reveals itself in its diverse architectural styles, from Roman temples to Venetian palaces, making Pula a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Top services in Pula

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Pula, Croatia. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 354 airlines that fly to Croatia. Browse the 114 top-rated tours available to you in Pula. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of places to stay in Pula and the 9 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Pula.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Pula, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Pula on your vacation in Croatia.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Pula from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Pula!

Best time to visit Pula

The best time to explore Pula, Croatia largely depends on your preferences. If you are seeking warm, sunny weather and don't mind larger crowds, summer (June to August) is the ideal time for you. During these months, the city comes alive with the Pula Film Festival and the Seasplash reggae festival, providing ample entertainment and cultural immersion. However, be prepared for higher prices and crowded attractions. If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October). The weather during these periods is pleasantly mild, and the city is less crowded, allowing you to explore at your leisure. Plus, you can still enjoy events like the Day of Antiquity - Pula Superiorvm in June or Visualia Festival in September. Although winter in Pula is mild, it's the off-peak season with fewer tourists, and some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed. Hence, your choice of when to visit should balance your interests, weather preferences, and tolerance for crowds.

Weather in Pula

Pula, Croatia experiences a temperate Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and warm, dry summers. The average annual temperature is 13.4°C, with July being the hottest month, boasting an average of 24.4°C. Winter temperatures, especially in January, the coldest month, hover around 6°C. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with November typically being the wettest month.

Summers in Pula are typically sunny with low humidity, perfect for enjoying the city's beaches and historical sites. However, the city can experience occasional heatwaves, so it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light clothing. Winters are relatively mild, but can be damp with occasional rainfall, and less frequently, snowfall. Travelers should pack accordingly with layers and waterproof gear. Spring and autumn offer a balance of mild weather and fewer tourists, making these seasons attractive for those who want to avoid the summer crowds.

Although extreme weather is not common in Pula, the city sometimes experiences the Bura wind, a dry and cold wind that can be quite strong. This wind is most common in the winter months.

Local tip for visiting Pula

One insider tip for making the most of your visit to Pula is to explore the city's vibrant farmers market, located near the center. While Pula's ancient Roman ruins usually steal the limelight, locals know that the farmers market offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the city's daily life. Opened every day except Sunday, the market boasts a vast array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and home-made crafts. Engage with the friendly vendors who are always keen to share stories about their produce, giving you a deeper connection to the city's culture and way of life. Additionally, visit the nearby fish market to see the diverse range of fresh Adriatic seafood. Locals recommend getting there early for the best selection. It's a feast for the senses and a chance to experience Pula like a true local.

Learn more about Croatia

There are many reasons to visit the town of Pula, but a trip to Croatia needs no explanation.

Exploring Croatia, which spans 56,594 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Croatia offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus, and the Forum Square, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Croatia.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Croatia.

What to see in Pula

Photo of Summer scenic view of ancient ruins Roman Amphitheatre in Pula.

Pula has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the town.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the town of Pula.

Top attractions in Pula

Home to plenty of top attractions, Pula is more than just a wonderful town in Croatia. Pula is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Croatia.

One fascinating sight in Pula is the unforgettable Pula Arena. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the town, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Pula. This remarkable attraction is located at Flavijevska ul. , 52100, Pula, Croatia and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 09:00-17:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Croatia, check out our list of top attractions in Pula below. Discover the best places to visit in Pula, including the fascinating Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus, Forum Square, Pula Citadel, and Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Pula.

Things to do in Pula

Photo of sunny stone street of ancient Pula view.

Enrich your travel experience in Pula by joining tours and activities. Pula offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the town.

Discover the most popular experiences in Pula below.

Most popular experiences in Pula

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the town of Pula.

Pula offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Half-day Tours, Water Parks, and Water Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Croatia.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Pula by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Pula

Travelers in Pula can choose from 17 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Water Activities is the answer.

The most popular tour in Pula is the fantastic Stand-Up- Paddle Glow Night Tour in Pula. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Pula one of the best travel destinations in Croatia.

Pula also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Pula Arena Amphitheater Admission Ticket is the cheapest tour in the town. This experience costs around 12 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Pula. Around 54 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 4 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Pula and book a top-rated tour in the town. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Pula below.

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Discover the best things to do in Pula. Choose from 114 fantastic tours and activities available in the town.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Pula. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Pula

Pula, a seafront city on Croatia's Istrian Peninsula, is renowned for its diverse and delectable cuisine. The city's culinary offerings are a reflection of its rich history, with influences from Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian cuisines. The best places to eat in Pula range from traditional Konobas (Croatian taverns) serving local seafood delicacies, to high-end restaurants offering modern twists on Istrian dishes. The Forum, a vibrant square in the city center, is a must-visit for foodies. Here, you can find a variety of food stalls selling fresh seafood, truffle-infused dishes, and the local favourite - 'pljukanci', a type of homemade pasta. For a more upscale dining experience, head to the marina where restaurants like Farabuto and Valsabbion Restaurant serve freshly caught fish and local wines in an elegant setting. Don't forget to try 'manestra', a traditional Istrian stew, and 'fritule', small sweet doughnuts typically served during festivities. For a truly authentic Pula experience, visit the local farmer's market in the morning to enjoy the freshest ingredients Istria has to offer.

Best shopping in Pula

Pula, a coastal city known for its Roman architectural wonders, also harbors an enchanting shopping scene. The 'best place to go shopping in Pula' is the vibrant Sergijevaca Street, lined with an array of boutiques offering designer fashion, unique accessories, and artisanal goods. Here, you'll also discover local craftsmanship at its finest, with items like handcrafted Istrian olive oil and traditional Croatian embroidery pieces being must-buy souvenirs.

For a unique shopping experience, visit the colorful Pula City Market, an open-air market brimming with fresh produce, homemade products, and local delicacies. The nearby Market Hall houses a wide selection of fish and seafood, promising an authentic taste of Pula's culinary scene. Remember to carry local currency (Kuna) for smoother transactions.

If you prefer a more contemporary shopping setup, Arena Centar is a popular choice. This modern mall houses a mix of international and local brands, making it a perfect spot for fashion enthusiasts. Shopping in Pula is not just about purchasing, it's about experiencing the city's vibrant culture, distinct fashion, and local traditions.

Best free things to do in Pula

Pula, a seafront city with rich Roman history, has a wealth of free activities to immerse yourself in. Start your journey at the ancient Roman amphitheater, Pula Arena. Although there is a fee to enter, admiring its grandeur from outside is completely free and still breathtaking. Continue your trip to the Forum, Pula's central square. Here, you can marvel at the Temple of Augustus and the Communal Palace without spending a dime. A short walk away is the Arch of the Sergii, an ancient Roman triumphal arch that's a testament to Pula's rich history. A visit to Pula isn’t complete without a leisurely stroll along the Lungomare, the beautiful seaside promenade. Enjoy a dip in the Adriatic sea or simply soak up the sun. Lastly, the best free things to do in Pula include exploring its colorful markets. The main market, located near the bus station, offers a feast for the senses with its vibrant colors, tantalizing scents, and lively atmosphere. Even if you don’t buy anything, simply walking around and taking in the local culture is a rewarding experience.

Vacation packages in Pula

Photo of Santa Margherita di Pula beach near Pula town.

The best and easiest way to visit Pula is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Croatia.

Booking a vacation package to Pula means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Pula to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Pula is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 121 unique vacation packages to Pula, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the town of Pula.

Popular types of vacations in Pula

The most popular way to experience Pula is by visiting the town as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Croatia. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Pula on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Croatia, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Croatia, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Pula, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Pula below.

Top vacation packages in Pula

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Croatia. In fact, you can choose from as many as 121 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Pula, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Croatia.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the town of Pula.

For an epic vacation, discover Pula and other top destinations in Croatia on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Croatia Beach Holiday in Pula. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Pula, but also in other top places to visit in Croatia. If Forum Square, Pula Arena, Šijana/Siana Forest, Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Temple of Augustus are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Pula, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Croatia Road Trip Vacation in Pula and spend as little as 705 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Pula, including the fantastic Forum Square, Maiden with the Seagull, Nature Park Učka, Church of Mary of God of Trsat, and Trsat Castle.

Get more Pula vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Croatia that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Pula

Discover and compare 121 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful town of Pula.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Pula get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Croatia. Your customized holiday package to Pula is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Pula

To get to the town of Pula the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Croatia can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Pula by booking flights with any of the 26 airlines that offer direct flights to Pula airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Pula airport are United Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Air Lines, Turkish Airlines, and Lufthansa. Go to this page to compare all flights to Pula.

To reach the town of Pula, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Pula airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Pula, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Pula airport and Pula below.

Find cheap flights to Pula

Photo of woman in hat stands and looking on Coliseum in Pula.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Pula, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Croatia. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Pula, Croatia, in June.

The cheapest one-way flight to Pula costs around 20 EUR and is offered by the airline Ryanair. The flight leaves on June 5 at 2 and departs from Vienna International airport in Vienna, Austria.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Pula cost approximately 45 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on May 16 and the return flight is scheduled on May 20. The flight time is around 1 hour per way.

The return flight is operated by Zadar.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Croatia and the town of Pula from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Pula

Travelers visiting Pula in Croatia can fly to Pula airport directly from 1810 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Pula airport and the town of Pula in Croatia depart from Pula airport in Pula, Croatia, Albany airport in Albany, Australia, and Greenville–Spartanburg International airport in Greenville, the United States.

Travelers can fly to Croatia by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Pula; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Albany; and from 4 weekly flight(s) from Greenville.

The airline that operates most flights to Croatia is Cambodia Airways. Cambodia Airways offers 3 scheduled flight routes to Croatia.

Discover the most popular flights to Pula below. Click to view flights to Pula, Croatia from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Pula

Photo of Beach in Pula.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Pula is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Pula usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Pula offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Pula and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Pula planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Pula, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Croatia can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Pula. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Pula.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Pula in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Pula

A trip to the fascinating Pula, Croatia, means opportunities to relax at any of the 7 different types of places to stay in the town. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 4321 vacation rental apartments, 1837 hotels, 1168 cottages, 38 guesthouses, 17 bed & breakfasts, 8 resorts and 3 hostels. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Pula provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the town, Family Hotel Amarin is one of the top picks of travelers in Pula.

The hotel is located at Val De Lesso 5 (ex Monsena bb) and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, Air conditioning, and Airport shuttle.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Pula. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Pula, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Maistra Apartments Riva. For approximately 33 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Double Room at this popular vacation rental apartment.

Below is a list of all 7 different types of places to stay in Pula. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Pula

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Pula for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the town is home to around 7,394 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Pula provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Pula are created equal, finding the best in the town often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Pula.

Lone Design Hotel offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Pula. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Family Hotel Amarin, the top 4-star hotel in the town. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Pula, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hotel Mediteran Plava Laguna, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Pula. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the town of Pula on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the town of Pula that match the information provided.

Car rental in Pula

Photo of street scene in Pula.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Pula. Pula has 9 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Pula start from 18.6 EUR per day or 130.22 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Kia Rio.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Pula, starting from 9.81 EUR per day or 68.66 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Pula, Croatia, below.

Popular types of car rental in Pula

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the town of Pula to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Pula can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Croatia at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Pula is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Pula is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the town of Pula.

Check out all options available in Pula and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Croatia below.

Search for car rental in Pula

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful town of Pula. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Pula, Croatia, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Pula

Navigating Pula, Croatia, is a straightforward affair with a variety of transportation options available. The city's public transit system, operated by Pulapromet, is efficient and reliable. It offers extensive bus routes that cover the city and its outskirts, making it a convenient and affordable choice for travelers.

Taxis are also easily accessible in Pula. They can be hailed on the street, booked via phone or through apps like Cammeo and Uber. For those looking for more autonomy, numerous rental car services are available, including major providers such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.

For a unique local experience, consider exploring Pula by bicycle. The city has a well-developed network of cycling paths, and bike rentals are readily available. Alternatively, you can travel by boat to explore the city's stunning coastline and nearby islands. Whether by land or sea, Pula offers a range of transportation options to suit every traveler's preference.

Popular destinations to visit after Pula

Photo of a lot of boats on the beautiful beach in Pula.

The town of Pula is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Croatia. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Croatia has it all.

Croatia is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Croatia that are as magical as the town of Pula. The most popular travel destinations in Croatia are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Croatia

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Croatia. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Pula

Photo of ancient Roman triumphal arch or Golden Gate and square in Pula.

A taste of Croatia through a visit to Pula can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Pula to another remarkable destination in Croatia.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the town of Pula to other spectacular locations in Croatia, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Pula

Traveling to another city or region in Croatia? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Pula to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Croatia on the selected dates.

Popular domestic flights from Pula

Travelers in Croatia can catch flights to domestic airports in Zagreb, Zadar, Split, Rijeka, and Dubrovnik. Domestic flights in Croatia are operated by 7 airlines: easyJet, Croatia Airlines, Ryanair, Lufthansa, and Air Serbia. There are around 13 scheduled flight routes operating to Pula on a weekly basis.

From Pula, travelers can book scheduled flights to 6 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Pula depart to many top-rated destinations in Croatia and are offered by easyJet, Croatia Airlines, and Ryanair.

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