Exploring the vibrant city of Pula, Croatia? Discover the best things to do in Pula that blend rich history, stunning landscapes, and coastal relaxation.
From ancient Roman amphitheaters to hidden beaches, this guide highlights diverse activities catering to every traveler’s interests. Join us in uncovering the gems that make Pula a must-visit destination, seamlessly combining culture, history, and coastal allure for a memorable experience.
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Why You Need To Visit Croatia
Pula Tourist Card
If you are spending some time in the city to see the historical sites, look into getting a ‘Pula+ Card‘ for access to 6 attractions and sights.
The card grants access to the Arena, Zerostrasse, Temple of Augustus, Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria, Sacred Hearts Museum, and Museum of Contemporary Art of Istria!
Swing by the local Tourism Office to get your card when you arrive!
€14 for adults, €6 for students and children under 5 to see the top sites in Pula!
Roman Ruins
Like every town and city in Croatia, the ‘Old Town’ has ancient architecture dating back to the days of the Romans and before. The history that has walked these streets is breathtaking, and the region has done so well to preserve the structures and atmosphere of its rich past.
The following are some paid and unpaid attractions to get a taste of the city’s history.
Pula Arena
Pula, Croatia is home to one of the most well-preserved Roman Arenas in the world, and arguably one of the best things to do in Pula! Built in 1 AD, this arena has seen centuries of bloodshed and battles and is still used today where it hosts concerts, the Pula Film Festival, sporting events, and more!
The magnificence of this arena can be experienced from the outside, with the ability to walk 360 degrees around the perimeter. Seated right near the main harbor, this is a must-see destination in Pula!
Cost: €10 for adults, €5 for students and children
* Included in Pula Tourist Card
Fortress Kastel (Pula Castle)
Built on top of a hill in the old town, the Pula Castle has a great vantage point for travelers to explore the city views and rich history that lies within the walls.
The fortress was constructed by the Venetians in the 17th century, and today it is home to the Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria. The fortress can be walked around the outside, where you’ll also get a glimpse of the Roman Amphitheater, and still get a taste of its impressive size and unique shape.
On your winding walk down from the castle, stop by Jupiter Pizza for what I can personally confirm as the best pizza in town!
Cost: €2.70 entry tickets
* Included in Pula Tourist Card
Zerostrasse
Directly under Fortress Kastel, there is a series of tunnels that were used as a bomb shelter during the First World War.
Constructed by the Austro-Hungarian empire, these tunnels have 4 entrances that link the city into this underground 2.5 miles of tunnels. Today the tunnels host signs walking you through the history of this underground world, and occasionally there are some other events held inside!
* Included in Pula Tourist Card
Check out @PulaNightLife on social media for any events or music shows happening inside the Zerostrasse tunnels!
Roman Mosaic
The Roman Mosaic isn’t an excursion per se, but it’s definitely a fun thing to seek out in the city as you explore the weaving streets, alleys, and staircases that connect the Old Town.
Explore the city streets and find the authentic remnants of the rule of the Roman Empire. They’re a bit tricky to find, but amazing to see the craftsmanship that has lasted centuries.
The mosaic is totally free to see and a fun thing to add to your day of exploration!
City Bike Ride
Around the city, you’ll see Tier-branded electric bikes and scooters available for rent for a crazy good price!
West of the Old Town, there is a network of paved, dirt, and gravel paths that will lead you to abandoned forts, coastline access, and incredible views in every direction. You can also see the well-known Galebijana Cave, but to fully explore it you’ll need to get into the water!
We loved that the bikes were electric because we felt we could ride around all day.
To rent them, you need to download the Tier Bike and Scooter apps, where you can track down their locations, the battery levels, your ride history, and pay for use.
There are plenty of parking areas in this area, which allows you to ditch the bike or scooter whenever you want to keep exploring!
Cost: €1.50 / 30 minutes
They have to be returned to a proper parking area shown on the map of the app, otherwise, you could incur a €26 fee!
Galebijana Sea Cave
Pula has an incredible sea cave that is so easy to get to, and when you go in the off-season you’re guaranteed to have the cave all to yourself! This was by far one of the best things to do in Pula.
The best ways to get there are by bike rental or sea kayak! Even in the off-season, sea kayaking is very comfortable and fun (maybe less so if you plan to get into the water)!
The Galebijana Sea Cave is easy to get to, and a must-see for anyone in Pula no matter the time of year.
We took a sea kayak, which cost €50 for a 2-person kayak and was worth every penny. In the off-season, contact Istria Kayak Tours via email at istriakayaktours@gmail.com, or by calling +385 098 802 349.
Beaches
Although you won’t find any white sand beaches around Pula, or any of Croatia for that matter, the beaches here offer a much different experience!
The rocky coast and limestone sea caves offer a more adventurous type of exploration. Be ready to dive into the water (safely, of course) to see what is waiting for you along the Istrian coast!
Lookout for 'FKK', a German word - Freikörperkultur (don't ask me how to pronounce it). This essentially translates to Free Body Culture, AKA, Nude Beach! These are common all around Europe!
Kamenjak
While not directly in Pula, the beaches on the Kamenjak Peninsula, including Safari Bar Kamenjak, are renowned for their natural beauty and unique features.
The Kamenjak Peninsula and Premantura Nature Park offer a variety of beaches with rocky cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters.
The surrounding natural reserve provides opportunities for exploration, and the diverse beaches cater to different preferences, making Kamenjak a favorite for those seeking adventure and a connection with nature.
Havajsko Beach (Hawaii Beach)
Havajsko Beach offers a blend of pebbles and rocks, creating a picturesque setting closely resembling Hawaii, as the name suggests.
The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, or just taking in the breathtaking views. The beach is relatively secluded, offering a more intimate experience away from the bustling crowds.
Be sure to explore around the Verudela area, and you can’t miss the Verudela Canyon, a favorite swimming spot!
Pula Market
Exploring the Pula Market is a much when exploring the city. See how locals shop, sell, and purchase what they need from local vendors, one of the best things to do in Pula for a local experience.
Here, you will find fresh produce, meat, cheese, and items like clothing, and gifts. This is a bustling marketplace and a perfect spot to people-watch!
Even better is the building the market is located in. Although typically these types of markets are located outdoors, the Pula Market is in a 3-story century-old building, filled with local art, and natural light, and always busy with shoppers!
Open daily from 7 am – 2 pm, closed on Sunday, and always free to walk around!
Check out a full one-month budget in Croatia for travelers, so you can do more with your wallet.
Pula Aquarium
The Pula Aquarium is a great way to experience the diverse aquatic life of the Adriatic Sea and inland freshwater ecosystems. It is located in the 130-year-old Austro-Hungarian Verudella Fort on the coast just south of Pula.
The Pula Aquarium is committed to the rich biodiversity of its natural heritage and is persistently working to rehabilitate and release endangered and at-risk species.
Normally I wouldn’t recommend animals in captivity, but the Pula Aquarium doubles as a wildlife rehabilitation location!
Cost: Entry is €17 for adults, and €13 for students and seniors.
**Check out their website to find current discounts!
Brijuni National Park
Brijuni National Park is just off the northwest coast of Pula and hosts intriguing features and activities that will interest any traveler who passes through! The park is a bustling place to visit in the summer months with hotels on the island, a golf course, and many land and water tours.
Everything is accessible on foot, but if you’re not interested in walking a few miles to see it all there are bikes and golf carts available to rent! In the off-season, you’ll have a massive island to explore at your pace with so many things to see.
The park has so many things to do, including a Safari Park, exposed 130 million-year-old dinosaur footprints on the rocky beach, a 1,600-year-old Olive tree, picturesque ‘Pine Valley’, and miles of serene walking paths!
Cost: €22 for ferry to the island and National Park access
+ Additional €4 for the bus ride to Fažana
Getting to Brijuni National Park
To get there, first, you’ll need to take a 15-minute bus ride from Pula up to Fažana, a quaint coastal town just North of Pula.
Near the main harbor area, you’ll find the Brijuni National Park information center where you can purchase ferry tickets to get across to the main island. The ferry ticket also grants access to the National Park and all of the free excursions offered.
The ferry runs at specific times so be sure to check the timetable for the dates you wish to visit.
Istrian Food
Nothing brings you closer to a culture’s roots than through food. Especially with a region as old as Istria, explore the ancient methods of processing and preparing their cultural offerings with the locals themselves!
Olive Oil Tour
Participate in an olive oil tasting tour to learn about Istria’s renowned olive oil production. Learn how to incorporate it into your diet, read the labels, and sample the varying aromas.
There is no better place to experience the history and importance of Istria’s olive oil than at the ‘House of Istrian Olive Oil‘.
For only €15, get a tour of the process and an all-inclusive tasting. This tour lasts 50 minutes and can be longer for a more thorough experience!
Wine Tasting
Wine tasting anywhere is always a fun time, but when a region has been making wine for thousands of years, you can trust they know what they’re doing.
Wine tasting in Croatia is a must, especially in Istria where the majority of the country’s wine is made! Check around for any tastings and tours that suit your preferences, or include this as a day trip from Pula when you head further North into the heart of wine-country.
Cooking Class
There is no better way to experience the food of an area, than cooking it yourself! There are so many options for a cooking experience in Croatia, but it’s always best to find one that includes shopping for the local ingredients at the market, and always includes local wine 😉
Check out this 6-hour market tour and cooking class, which offers it all for only €210 per person!
Check out this Ultimate Europe Packing List
More Adventures in Pula
The fun doesn’t stop there! Although this is a curated list of my top 14 suggestions, so much waits for you in and around Pula!
Rent a car and take a day trip from Pula – the best way to see the rest of Istria!
Or, check out some of the highest-rated tours in Pula.
Summary - Top 14 Things to Do In Pula, Croatia
Pula, Croatia is a must-visit for anyone visiting the coastal country on the Adriatic. The charming culture, cobble-stone streets, and Roman architecture leave you in awe. Not the mention the aqua-blue water with hidden gems tucked along the coast!
Pula is a must-see location, leaving the only question; what will you do first?!
Explore the other destinations waiting for you in Europe!
