Croatia Pula Things To Do: A Complete City Guide

Pula, Croatia is an ancient Roman city located in the Istrian Peninsula, a region known for its lush, green forests and stunningly beautiful coastline. It is a popular tourist destination due to its many attractions, including archaeological sites, religious structures and modern entertainment venues. There is something for everyone in Pula, from ancient history buffs to beach lovers and active adventurers. In this guide, we’ll explore all that the city has to offer and provide some helpful tips for making the most of your time in Pula.

History of Pula

Pula has a long and storied history that dates back to the 6th century BC. It was one of the earliest settlements in the Istrian Peninsula, founded by the Illyrian people. In 177 BC, the Romans conquered the city and renamed it Colonia Pietas Iulia Pola Pollentia Herculanea. The city flourished under the Romans, who built an amphitheater and many other monuments and buildings, some of which still stand today. During the Middle Ages, the city was ruled by a succession of empires, including the Byzantine Empire, the Franks, and the Venetians. In the 19th century, Pula was part of the Austrian Empire and then part of Yugoslavia from 1918 until its independence in 1991.

Population and Geography

Pula is located in the Istrian Peninsula of Croatia and has a population of approximately 56,000 people. The city is situated on a bay at the southern tip of the peninsula, with a natural harbor that was used by ships to transport goods throughout Europe for centuries. The harbor is now a popular destination for tourists and local residents alike. The city is known for its mild climate, with mild winters and warm summers. The city is also known for its Mediterranean cuisine and wines, which are produced in the nearby villages.

Attractions in Pula

Pula is home to numerous attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. The city’s main attraction is its ancient Roman amphitheater, dating back to the 1st century AD. This huge structure is still in use today as an open-air theater and concert venue. Other popular attractions include the Temple of Augustus, built in the 1st century BC; the Arch of Sergius, built in the 2nd century AD; and the Forum, which was once the center of public life in Pula. The city also boasts several art galleries and museums, including the Archaeological Museum of Istria and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Outdoor Activities in Pula

The outdoors in Pula offer something for everyone. There are numerous parks and gardens throughout the city that are perfect for relaxing strolls or picnics. The nearby beaches offer a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving and water sports. For hikers and cyclists, there are numerous trails that wind through the forests and hills around Pula. The nearby islands of Brijuni National Park are perfect for exploring with plenty of wildlife to observe and plenty of opportunities for bird watching.

Cultural Activities in Pula

Pula is a great destination for cultural activities too. Throughout summer months, there are frequent festivals featuring live music, theater performances and more. There are also numerous music venues throughout the city where you can enjoy classical music as well as modern rock and pop performances. There are several movie theaters as well as art galleries showcasing works by local artists. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants serving up traditional Istrian cuisine as well as international offerings.

Shopping in Pula

If you’re looking to do some shopping while in Pula, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. There are several shopping centers throughout the city as well as smaller boutiques offering local crafts and souvenirs. The markets around Pula offer fresh produce as well as handmade items such as jewelry, pottery and more. Additionally, there are several antique shops where you can find unique items from past eras.

Tours in Pula

One of the best ways to explore Pula is to take a tour with an experienced guide who can show you the highlights of this historic city. One popular tour is the “Pula Old Town Tour” which takes you through some of the most important monuments in Pula including the amphitheater, Forum and more. This tour lasts approximately two hours and includes a snack break at one of Pula’s traditional restaurants. The “Pula Castles Tour” takes you to some of the most impressive castles in Istria including Fort Verudela and Castle Santa Croce. This tour lasts three hours and includes a visit to two of Istria’s most famous winemakers. With both tours, you will learn about the history and culture of Istria while taking in some of its most beautiful sights.

Food & Wine Tours in Pula

Another great way to experience Pula is to take a food and wine tour with an experienced guide who can show you some of the best restaurants and wineries in Istria. On this tour you will visit traditional restaurants serving up local dishes such as truffles and prosciutto as well as seafood dishes made with locally-sourced seafood. You will also visit some of Istria’s most renowned wineries where you can sample some of their best wines made from indigenous grapes such as Malvazija or Teran. On this tour you will learn about traditional Istrian cuisine while sampling some of its best dishes and wines.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for ancient history or modern entertainment, Pula has something for everyone. From its stunning archaeological sites to its vibrant cultural scene, this ancient city will leave you with plenty of memories that will last a lifetime. With its many attractions, outdoor activities and tours, there’s something for everyone in Pula so join us on your next visit!