Pula is the capital of Istria and the next nearby main town is Rovinj – 35.9km (45 mins) - beaches surround Pula in the resorts on the Verudela Peninsula... and the coast is dotted with pine groves, seaside cafes and some good restaurants.
Pula is on the tip of the Istrian peninsula and is the coasts largest city, and the Brijuni Islands are an easy day trip from here. With Italy being just over the water – there is a strong Italian influence in this area, Italian is spoken as the second language.
The Istrian Riviera is known for its excellent food and drink, and appeals to those who like a bit of culture and history with some nice beaches thrown in. Roman architecture is very noticeable in Pula with the amphitheatre being the best known feature in the city. Its right in the centre of the city dominating the area and doubles as a venue for concerts and festivals in the summer.
Insider tip
The best hotels are - Park Plaza Histria Pula, Park Plaza Verudela Pula, Park Plaza Arena Pula, Oasi Boutique Hotel & Restaurant, Hotel Valsabbion
Restaurants we like include –
Farabuto – This typical Istrian Bistro has a bit of a hipster vibe with its slow-cooked seafood but the food just keeps getting better with each visit and prices are cheap – worth the effort to find.
Jupiter - With Italsy so close it’s maybe no surprise that you can get a great Pizza in Pula but this one stands out for it’s location close to the Ampitheatre, the great Terrace, the fact they have Gluten-free options, and for the fact the Pizza is just so good. Tip – Mid size is plenty big enough unless you’re really really hungry.
Popular things to do and see and unmissable experiences
Cycling – there is a 4km trail which goes to Medulin following the path of ancient gladiators.
Diving – Orca diving centre will organise boat and wreck dives. Www.orcadiving.hr
Windsurfing – Windsurf bar offers equipment and courses to learn to windsurf www.windsurfing.hr
Closest attractions - Roman Amphitheatre, Temple of Augustus, Museum of contemporary art and a bit further afield Venice (2.5hr catamaran)
Climate
Pula has a typical Mediterranean climate with warm dry summers and cool wet winters
Other information
- Best time of year to travel:
May to October is the main season with June and September being reliably warm and quieter than High Season. October can be wet though recent years have seen many warm days.
- Currency: Croatian Kuna is accepted everywhere. Euros are accepted in some places
- Flight time from UK: 3 hrs approx.
- Visa and passport information:
Croatia is an EU member state. You don't need a visa for tourist and business trips of up to 90 days in any 6 month period (Correct Aug 2016)