Located in the southern part of theIstrian Peninsula, Pula stands out for its remarkably well-preserved Roman heritage, its beaches, and its Mediterranean atmosphere. With its Roman monuments, the narrow streets of the historic center, and the seaside promenade, Pula is a premier cultural and beach destination for visitors to Istria.
Check out our ideas for things to do in Pula, illustrated with photos that will make you want to go there.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Top Attractions in Pula: Map
To get you started, here’s a map of our selection to help you get your bearings and plan ahead:
Pula is one of the most beautiful cities in Istria, which is itself a magnificent region with plenty of attractions! If you’re short on time, the must-see sights are:
- The Arena
- The Temple of Augustus and the Forum Square
- The citadel and its views of the city
- The trip to Brijuni Islands National Park
1. The Pula Amphitheater (Pula Arena)
Why visit?
The Pula Arena is the city’s most iconic monument and one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. We were impressed by its size, comparable to that of the Colosseum in Rome, and by the fact that it still stands right in the heart of the city. Built in the 1st century, it once hosted gladiatorial combats.
Today, you can explore the underground galleries, which house an exhibition on viticulture and olive oil in Istria during the Roman era. The amphitheater also hosts evening concerts and festivals.
Practical advice
- Directions: Right in the heart of downtown Pula, within walking distance
- Visit duration: 45min to 1h30
- Challenges and Accessibility for People with Disabilities: uneven ground and steps in some areas; closed-toe shoes are recommended; some parts of the site are wheelchair accessible, but not the entire amphitheater
- Hours:
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from November through March,
8 a.m. to 8 p.m./9 p.m. from April through September, and until 10 p.m. in June–August,
last admission 1 hour before closing - €10 per adult; reduced rates for children
- Latest news on the official website here
- Buy your ticket to save time!
WHERE TO STAY IN Pula
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
In the city center, near attractions:
Hôtel Mondival – check photos and availability
Verudela Peninsula, cliffs, and squares:
Hotel Brioni – check photos and availability
Stoja neighborhood, between the Old Town and the beaches
Hotel Milan – check photos and availability
2. The Temple of Augustus
Why visit?
The Temple of Augustus stands on Forum Square, in the heart of the old town. We find that this small Roman temple, dedicated to Emperor Augustus and the goddess Roma, perfectly encapsulates Pula’s ancient roots within its modern urban landscape. Its façade, featuring Corinthian columns, has stood the test of time, despite damage sustained during World War II, which was later restored.
You can admire it from the outside in just a few minutes, as part of a stroll through the nearby Place du Forum.
But we recommend going inside to get a closer look at the restored architectural details.
Practical advice
- Directions: on Place du Forum, in the city center; accessible on foot
- Duration of visit: 10 to 15 minutes
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: The ground at Place du Forum is level; the outdoor area is easily accessible, but there are a few steps to enter the venue.
- Hours:
Visible at all times from the outside; the interior is generally not open to visitors
Interior: at least from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. from April through October - Prices: €2
- Latest news on the official website here
3. The Forum Square and Strolling Through Town
Why visit?
Forum Square has been the historic heart of Pula since Roman times and remains a lively hub today, lined with cafés. We love to stop there while strolling through the surrounding narrow streets, which blend Venetian facades with ancient ruins.
To extend your walk, we recommend continuing on to Tito Park, where a miniature model of the city allows you to locate the main landmarks.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour for the walk; longer with a guided tour
- Hours: Free admission to Forum Square and Tito Park
- Accessibility and Challenges: flat, paved ground; accessible without significant difficulty
- Prices: Free for the walk; optional guided tour for a fee (generally around 15 euros per adult)
- Directions: in the city center, within walking distance of the amphitheater
- You can also take a guided walking tour to gain a better understanding of the history and layout of the old town. See options.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Croatia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
See our tips (coming soon)
4. Kaštel Fortress and the Istrian Historical Museum
Why visit?
Perched on Pula’s central hill, Kaštel Fortress overlooks the old town and the harbor. We enjoy this view, which offers a panoramic glimpse of the city’s layout—from its amphitheater to its narrow streets and the sea.
The fortress is home to the Istrian Historical Museum, which traces the region’s history over several centuries. You can visit it at the end of your stroll through the city center; it’s just a short walk up from the nearby alleys.
Practical advice
- Directions: Located on the central hill in Pula, accessible on foot from the Old Town
- Duration of visit: 1 to 2 hours for the museum and the ramparts
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: the climb from downtown involves a steep incline; an elevator connects the fortress to the Zerostrasse tunnels below
- Hours:
In winter: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In summer: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. - Combined ticket prices with Zerostrasse: €8 for adults, €3 for children
- Latest news on the official website here
5. The Zerostrasse Underground Tunnels
Why visit?
Beneath downtown Pula, the Zerostrasse Tunnel network was excavated by the Austro-Hungarian Army to serve as a shelter during both world wars. We find this tour to be a complementary and different experience from visits to the ancient monuments above ground.
The underground tour connects several points in the city center and offers insight into a more recent chapter in Pula’s military history. You can access it directly from the historic center, making it an easy stop to fit in between other sightseeing activities.
Practical advice
- Directions: Main entrance at 3 Carrarina Ulica, in downtown Pula; accessible on foot
- Duration of visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour; up to 2 hours if combined with a visit to Kaštel Fortress
- Hours: Open year-round, with extended hours from May through September
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: The tunnels are wheelchair-accessible, and an elevator connects the site to Kaštel Fortress; expect cool temperatures
- Hours:
In winter: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
In summer: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. - Prices: €8 for adults, €3 for children
- Latest news on the official website here
A LITTLE MORE patience
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6. Trip to Brijuni Islands National Park
Why visit?
Off the coast of Pula, the Brijuni Islands archipelago forms a national park renowned for its lush green landscapes and its unusual history as Marshal Tito’s summer residence. We find this excursion the perfect way to take a break after exploring the city center.
The archipelago is accessible only by boat from the mainland, which helps preserve its unspoiled character. Highlights include a safari park, Roman and Byzantine ruins, and trails you can explore on foot or by bike, depending on how much time you have.
Practical advice
- Access: by boat only from the mainland, departing from Fažana or directly from Pula, depending on the tour you choose
- Duration of visit: half a day to a full day
- Hours: Boat departures throughout the day during the high season; more limited during the low season
- Parking: Parking is available at the boat boarding area
- Dining: There are a few dining options available on the main island
- See the available options for exploring this national park
7. The Verudela Peninsula
Why visit?
Just a few kilometers from the city center, the Verudela Peninsula is home to several of Pula’s best beaches. We discovered Ambrella Beach, Saccorgiana Beach, Hawaii Beach, and the Verudela Canyon—a more rugged cove nestled between the rocks.
Each of these beaches offers a different atmosphere, ranging from developed areas to more secluded spots. You can easily spend half a day—or even a whole day—hopping from one beach to another along this peninsula.
Practical advice
- Directions: A few kilometers from downtown Pula; accessible by car or local bus
- Duration of visit: half a day to a full day
- Hours: Free access to the beaches all day long
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: Some beaches have concrete areas; the Verudela Canyon remains steeper and rockier.
- Rates: Free access to the beaches; beach chair and water sports equipment rentals are available for an additional fee, depending on the beach
- Parking: Parking lots are available near the peninsula’s main beaches
- Dining: Several restaurants, snack bars, and beach bars along the beaches of Verudela
- Rent kayaks or take a ride on a glass-bottom boat
8. Kayaking among the cliffs around Pula
Why visit?
Kayaking lets you explore the Pula coastline from a different perspective, paddling along the cliffs that are home to several sea caves. We recommend this activity to anyone who wants to get off the beaten path and see the coastline from the water.
Nighttime excursions are also available, offering a unique atmosphere along the cliffs. No prior experience is necessary, as the excursions are generally suitable for both beginners and more experienced kayakers.
See available options.
9. The MEMO Museum
Why visit?
The MEMO Museum offers a thoroughly interactive and fun experience that stands in stark contrast to Pula’s more traditional museums. We found this place particularly entertaining, with a format that appeals to both adults and children.
This is a great option if you’re looking for something different to do between visits to ancient monuments, especially if you’re feeling tired or if the weather is bad. You can enjoy a fun time there with family or friends, away from traditional exhibition halls.
Practical advice
- Directions: Scalierova ulica 4, in downtown Pula, within walking distance
- Visit duration: 30min to 45min
- Accessibility and Challenges: a small, single-level space that is accessible without significant difficulty
- Hours:
June 1–August 31, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.,
Otherwise, by appointment for groups of at least 5 people - Prices: €5
- Latest news on the official website here
10. Ciklonska Beach
Why visit?
Ciklonska Beach rounds out our selection of beaches around Pula, alongside those on the Verudela Peninsula. We’ve included it on our list because it offers an alternative to the more crowded beaches in Verudela.
You can include it in a multi-day itinerary focused on swimming and relaxing, alternating with cultural visits to the city center. A typical day might combine visiting ancient monuments in the morning with relaxing by the sea in the afternoon.
Practical advice
- Directions: on the outskirts of Pula, accessible by car
- Duration of visit: a few hours to a full day
- Challenges and Access for People with Disabilities: A pebble or rocky beach, like most beaches in the region; be sure to bring water shoes.
- Prices: Free access to the beach
- Parking: nearby parking lot
It’s time to book!
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11. The Saint-François Monastery
Why visit?
For a change, we’re not taking you to see the cathedral, but to another religious building.The Church and Monastery of Saint Francis nicely round out a tour of the ancient ruins by offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval heritage. You can explore them while strolling through the narrow streets of the city center, without having to make a long detour.
It’s a peaceful haven away from the tourist hustle and bustle of the city.
Practical advice
- Directions: In downtown Pula, within walking distance
- Tour duration: 15 to 30min
- Accessibility and Challenges for People with Disabilities: Flat ground in the city center; easy access from the street
- Hours:
—generally open during the day, with reduced hours during the off-season; check on site - Prices: A donation of 1€ is requested
- Latest news on the official website here
12. The Dolphin-Watching Cruise
Why visit?
The waters off the coast of Pula are home to a pod of dolphins that you can observe on a special cruise, available during the day or at sunset. We recommend this excursion as a way to get a bird’s-eye view of the Istrian coast and enjoy a break from the cultural sights in town.
No sighting is ever 100 percent guaranteed—nature is unpredictable, after all—but the boat tour is enjoyable in its own right. It’s an activity worth considering if your stay in Pula lasts more than two or three days.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 2 to 3 hours on average
- Schedule: Daytime or sunset tours
- View available options
13. Porta Gemina and Porta Herculea
Why visit?
Pula still has several ancient gates from its former fortified walls, including the Porta Gemina and the Porta Herculea. We find these ruins interesting because they serve as a reminder that the modern city developed directly on top of the ancient fortified Roman city.
You can spot these gates as you stroll through the historic center, between the amphitheater and the Forum Square. They make for quick stops to include on a tour exploring the city’s ancient heritage.
Practical advice
- Duration of visit: 10 to 15 minutes
- Hours: Open to the public; visible from the outside
- Directions: In downtown Pula, within walking distance
14. Sample Istria’s local cuisine and wines
Why visit?
A trip to Pula is also an opportunity to sample Istrian cuisine and local wines. We consider this culinary aspect to be an integral part of exploring the region, just as much as the ancient monuments. Istria is particularly renowned for its olive oils and wines, which you can sample in the restaurants and wine bars in the city center. This culinary stop is a delightful way to round out a day spent exploring cultural sites and beaches.
Practical advice
- Among our favorites:
Ribarska Koliba Restaurant for the view and the fish,
Riva Restaurant, featuring traditional dishes with a modern twist
15. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Pula
Why visit?
The Pula Museum of Contemporary Art adds a distinctly different touch to the city’s ancient heritage. We believe it is worthwhile to include this stop to showcase a more contemporary aspect of the local cultural scene.
The museum hosts temporary and permanent exhibitions by contemporary Croatian and international artists. The venue adds a special touch, as it is a former printing plant
See more photos in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- Directions: In downtown Pula, within walking distance
- Tour duration: 30min to 1h
- Hours:
Closed on Mondays and holidays
October through April: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
May through September: at least 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. - Prices: €4
- Latest news on the official website here
Things to Do in Pula: Other Ideas
Other Museums in Pula
In addition to the Istrian History Museum and the MEMO Museum, Pula has other museums worth visiting if you have a little more time. Here are three of them, covering gastronomy, archaeology, and wine:
- The Istrian Olive Oil Museum (Muzej maslinarstva): a museum dedicated to the region’s olive-growing tradition, where a guided tasting offers insight into the production of Istrian extra virgin olive oil, from Roman times to the present day. Official website here
- The Istrian Archaeological Museum: Housed in a magnificent building, it features collections spanning from prehistory to the early Middle Ages, including early Christian funerary stelae and artifacts from excavations at the major archaeological site of Nesactium; Official website here —currently closed for renovation.
- The Wine Museum: a presentation of Istrian wines followed by an on-site tasting—a format we find enjoyable after a morning of cultural sightseeing. Official website here
Other Churches in Pula
Pula boasts a rich religious heritage, the legacy of nearly two thousand years of Christian history, and the Church and Monastery of St. Francis described above offer just a glimpse of it. We particularly recommend these three sites to lovers of religious architecture:
- St. Anthony’s Church: a Catholic church in the city center dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua—an easy stop to include on a stroll through the narrow streets of the old town.
- The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary: a typical episcopal church of the Adriatic region, built as early as the 4th century on the foundations of an ancient temple and featuring a Venetian Baroque bell tower completed in 1924. Inside, you’ll notice floor mosaics as well as a 3rd-century sarcophagus that has been converted into an altar—if it’s open…
- The Chapel of Saint Mary Formosa (Santa Maria del Canneto): the only remnant of the Byzantine era in Pula, this 6th-century Greek cross-plan chapel is all that remains of a large three-nave basilica commissioned by Archbishop Maximian of Ravenna, which was damaged during the Venetian sacking of the city in 1243.
Other Attractions in Pula
Pula has even more attractions to discover, depending on your interests, ranging from ancient ruins to more contemporary sights. We’ve selected six that are perfect for a longer stay:
- The Roman Mosaic “The Punishment of Dirce”: Discovered in 1959 near the Sainte-Marie-Formose Chapel, this 3rd-century mosaic—preserved in situ two meters below the current ground level—depicts the mythological punishment inflicted by the brothers Amphion and Zethos on their aunt Dirce. It is one of the few known depictions of this myth.
- The Lighting Giants (Svetleći Divovi): The cranes at the former Uljanik shipyard, designed by lighting designer Dean Skira, light up every evening from dusk until 10 p.m.—midnight in the summer—for a free sound-and-light show along the waterfront.
- The Arch of the Sergii (Porte d’Or): an ancient triumphal arch erected between 29 and 27 B.C. to honor three members of the patrician family of the Sergii.
- The Pula Aquarium (Verudela Fort): housed in a 19th-century Austro-Hungarian fort on the Verudela Peninsula, it features more than 200 marine species from the Adriatic, the Mediterranean, and the tropics; Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in winter and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in summer; admission is €25 per adult and €16–20 for children. Official website here
- The Small Roman Theater: Built in the 1st century on the eastern slope of the central hill, a few hundred meters from the large amphitheater, on the other side of the fortress, it could seat about 1,000 spectators; only its reconstructed foundations are visible today.
- The Pula Covered Market (Tržnica): a building constructed between 1902 and 1903, one of the finest examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Croatia, built of iron and glass, which still houses stalls selling fish, meat, and local products on the ground floor.
Other Beaches in Pula
In addition to the beaches on the Verudela Peninsula and Ciklonska Beach, Pula has other beaches to explore—some quieter, others more unique, depending on your preferences. Here are two of them:
- Valovine Beach: a rocky beach nestled near a forest park, with crystal-clear water ideal for diving; there is a parking lot and a few restaurants nearby, as well as opportunities for wakeboarding.
- Valsaline Beach: Nestled at the end of the Lungomare, Pula’s coastal promenade, this sheltered cove of pebbles and rocky slabs enjoys natural shade from the surrounding pine trees and a gently sloping entry, making it ideal for families.
Things to Do in Pula with Kids
If you’re traveling with children, several of the places on our list are particularly well-suited for families. We especially recommend the MEMO Museum, with its interactive and fun exhibits, as well asthe Pula Aquarium, located inside Fort Verudela. The beaches on the Verudela Peninsula and the safari park in Brijuni Islands National Park are great additions to a family itinerary. You can mix and match these activities depending on your children’s ages and their interest in exploring wildlife or interactive experiences.
Things to Do in Pula When It Rains
In case of bad weather, several activities from our selection are still available in Pula. These include the Zerostrasse Underground Tunnels, the MEMO Museum, the Istrian History Museum housed in Kaštel Fortress, and the Pula Museum of Contemporary Art. The Pula Covered Market is also a sheltered option. This way, you can plan an entire day of indoor activities without missing out on the city’s cultural attractions.
Day Trips Around Pula
Pula is a great base from which to explore the rest ofIstria. Below, we’ve listed several suggestions for day trips, in addition to the Brijuni Islands National Park, which we mentioned earlier. You can choose from these ideas depending on the length of your stay.
Day Trip to Rovinj
Rovinj is often cited as one of Istria’s most beautiful coastal towns, with its cobblestone streets and colorful harbor. We recommend spending a full day there on a day trip from Pula to stroll through its historic center, perched on a peninsula. You can easily get there by car, making it a simple day trip to organize from Pula.
Day Trip to Poreč
Poreč, further north along the Istrian coast, is a great addition to a day trip starting from Pula. We recommend this town for its historic center and the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can plan this as a day trip, perhaps combining the visit with a stop in Rovinj along the way.
The Villages of Istria: Vodnjan, Labin, Motovun, and Beram
The Istrian hinterland is home to several villages worth visiting on a day trip from Pula. Vodnjan and Labin are the closest, while Motovun and Beram are located a little further north. We provide details on these destinations, their unique features, and our tips for visiting them in our article dedicated to the most beautiful towns and villages in Istria. There, you’ll find everything you need to plan a customized excursion based on the time you have available.
See more details in our article dedicated to the towns and villages of Istria.
Cape Kamenjak (Premantura)
Cape Kamenjak, near the village of Premantura, forms a nature reserve south of Pula, renowned for its cliffs and coves. We find this spot ideal for a day in nature, combining a hike along the coast with a swim in pristine waters. You can easily combine this excursion with a swim in one of the cape’s many coves.
Is the city of Pula worth a visit?
Yes, Pula is well worth a visit for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman amphitheater, its old town rich in ancient ruins, and its beaches, which are easily accessible from downtown. We consider Pula an essential stop on any trip to Istria, both for its heritage and its seaside setting. You can spend several days there, combining cultural visits, relaxation by the sea, and excursions into the Istrian hinterland.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Pula
Where is Pula located?
- Pula is located at the southern tip of the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia
- From Pula to Rovinj = Route to be determined
- From Pula to Poreč = Route to be determined
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
How do I get to Pula?
Pula has its own airport, making it a convenient gateway for visiting Istria. We also recommend renting a car to easily explore Rovinj, Poreč, or the villages in the hinterland. You can also reach Pula by road from other regions of Croatia or from neighboring countries.
Parking in Pula
The historic center of Pula is largely pedestrian-only or has restricted traffic. We recommend parking in one of the paid parking lots on the outskirts of the old town, particularly near the harbor or the amphitheater, and then continuing on foot. You’ll also find paid street parking, which is generally metered during the day.
Getting Around in Pula
Pula’s city center is easy to explore on foot, as the main ancient monuments are concentrated within a small area. We recommend walking to explore the old town, supplementing your walk with a car if needed to reach the Verudela Peninsula or the more distant beaches. This way, you can plan your days based on the distances between each site.
Where to Eat in Pula
We enjoyed the variety of restaurants in downtown Pula, especially around Forum Square. Istrian cuisine and its local wines—mentioned earlier in our selection—are particularly worth trying. Be sure to check out our top picks as well.
Visiting Pula in Winter
In winter, Pula is much less crowded than during the peak summer season, but several attractions have reduced opening hours during this time. We find this time of year a great opportunity to enjoy the amphitheater and the historic center without the crowds of the summer months. However, you might want to skip the beaches and boat tours, which aren’t as suitable for this cooler season.
DISCOVER Istria
