Pula Must See – A City Guide for First-Time Visitors

Pula is a city in Croatia with a rich and vibrant history. Sitting on the Istrian Peninsula, it’s one of the oldest cities in the country, having been founded over 3,000 years ago! This big city is filled with cultural and historical attractions, along with stunning natural beauty and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an active adventure, Pula is sure to have something to offer. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Pula can be overwhelming. To help make things easier, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide of the must-see attractions and activities in Pula – perfect for first-time visitors!

A Brief History of Pula

Pula is one of the oldest cities in Croatia. Founded by the Illyrians in 4000 BC, it has seen many different rulers over the centuries, including the Romans, Venetians and Austrians. Pula was an important port city during the Roman period, and it has retained much of its historical architecture from this time. After World War II, Pula was one of the first cities to be liberated from Italian rule. Today, it is a popular tourist destination and is known for its stunning beaches, ancient sites, and unique culture.

Things to Do

Pula is a city full of exciting attractions and activities for visitors to experience. From exploring the ancient Roman ruins to relaxing on the beach, there’s something to suit everyone’s interests. Here are some of the must-see attractions and activities in Pula:

Explore Ancient Roman Sites

Pula is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. The city was once at the heart of the Roman Empire and you can explore some of its most impressive sites today. The most popular sites include the Roman Amphitheater, Triumphal Arch, and Temple of Augustus. The Amphitheater is particularly impressive – it was built in the 1st century AD and is still in use today! It’s home to many concerts and events throughout the year, so be sure to check what’s on if you’re visiting during summer.

Visit Pula Cathedral

The Pula Cathedral is another must-see attraction in Pula. This stunning cathedral was built in the 17th century and is home to some beautiful works of art. You can take a tour of the interior to learn more about its history and admire its stunning architecture. There are also regular services held in the cathedral, so you can experience a traditional Croatian mass while you’re there.

Relax on Pula Beaches

Pula’s coastline is lined with stunning beaches, perfect for relaxing in the sun or swimming in the crystal clear waters. The most popular beach is Verudela Beach, which is just a short walk from the city center. Here you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy, along with watersports such as jet-skiing, windsurfing and parasailing.

Explore Brijuni National Park

Located just off the coast of Pula is Brijuni National Park – a stunning island paradise. This park is home to some incredible wildlife and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. You can explore the island on foot or by bike or kayak around its coastline to spot some of its many species of birds and other wildlife. There are also some beautiful beaches here that are perfect for swimming or sunbathing.

Try Local Cuisine

No trip to Pula would be complete without trying some of its delicious local cuisine. The city is known for its seafood dishes, such as brodet (fish stew) and scampi risotto. There are also plenty of other dishes to try such as pastas, pizzas, and grilled meats. Be sure to sample some local wines too – Croatia produces some excellent quality wines that are perfect for pairing with your meal!

Popular Tours

In addition to exploring Pula independently, there are also several popular tours that you can take to experience the city’s unique attractions and get even more out of your visit. Here are two tours that we recommend:

Pula Walking Tour

This guided tour will take you around some of Pula’s most famous sites and attractions. You’ll visit the Roman Amphitheater, Triumphal Arch, Temple of Augustus, as well as other historical sites around the city. Your guide will provide interesting information about each stop and you’ll get plenty of opportunities to take photos along the way. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to get an overview of what Pula has to offer. Book a Pula Walking Tour here.

Pula National Park Excursion

If you’re looking for a more active experience, this tour will take you to Brijuni National Park where you can explore its stunning terrain on foot or by bike. You’ll get plenty of opportunities to spot some of the park’s many species of wildlife and take a dip in its crystal clear waters. This tour is perfect for those who want to get out and explore Pula’s natural beauty. Book a Pula National Park Excursion here.

Conclusion

Pula is a city filled with exciting attractions and activities that are perfect for first-time visitors. From exploring ancient Roman sites to relaxing on stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. There are also several popular tours that you can take to experience even more of what this vibrant city has to offer. So if you’re looking for a unique destination that has something for everyone, look no further than Pula!