Are you planning a city break to Croatia but haven’t decided on the destination yet? Consider Croatian Pula. Pula is the southernmost city on the Croatian peninsula of Istria. Pula is a great destination for a city break if you’re looking for a city full of Pula sights, history, art, and culture. You can also enjoy the beach there. It’s the perfect combination of various factors. You can also engage in various activities such as snorkeling at the beach, strolling through the village streets, and taking a bike tour through the city. The perfect destination for a city trip!
An affordable city trip
If you’re looking for a cheap city trip destination, then Pula is definitely a destination to consider. Croatia is generally not very expensive, and neither is Pula. Life there is much cheaper than in the Netherlands. This makes the city trip to Pula just that much more enjoyable. You can get more out of your money. An average stay costs between €35 and €75 per night. An average meal costs you less than €10, and there are plenty of free activities you can do.
Flight to Pula
From Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, there is no direct flight to Croatian Pula. You will always have a layover in another Croatian city. Usually, you first fly to Zagreb or Zadar. An average flight to Pula takes about 6 hours because of this. However, the costs are very reasonable. An average return flight in the high season costs you about €149.
Roman influences in Pula
In Pula, you can find many buildings and structures dating back to the Roman era. The buildings and structures have remained incredibly well intact. These sights take you back in time. We’ve listed the most remarkable sights with Roman influences that you really shouldn’t miss:
- The Amphitheater
- The Temple of Augustus
- Fort of Pula
The Amphitheater
The biggest tourist attraction in Pula is the Pula Amphitheater. This famous Roman building is breathtakingly beautiful. Among the locals, the Amphitheater is also known as the Arena of Pula. The amphitheater has been standing for several centuries. To be precise, it was built in the first century AD under the order of Emperor Vespasian. The amphitheater has an oval shape and is about 130 meters long at its widest point. It used to be the home of gladiators who performed their shows for thousands of spectators. The Amphitheater can accommodate over 20,000 spectators, and to this day, it is used for events. Although gladiator shows and fights are no longer held, there is room for more festive events. Especially in the summer months, a lot is organized here, from concerts to movie nights and festivals.
You can visit the Amphitheater every day between 9 AM and 9 PM. The entrance fee for adults is approximately €10, and a ticket for children costs approximately €3.
The Temple of Augustus
In the center of Pula, you can find a large square. On this square stands the former Temple of Augustus. This is again one of the remnants from the Roman era. In the past, this central square was a place for trade and meetings. Today, it is still a place for trade and meetings, just a bit more modern. It is the bustling heart of the hospitality industry. You can find many different cafés, bars, and restaurants here. Most hotels and hostels in the center are also located around this square.
Fort of Pula
Although the Fort of Pula is not that old, as it was built in the second half of the 19th century, the Roman style was also maintained here. The construction of this fort was mainly to protect the marine harbor of Pula. The construction of the fort was made possible by the then ruler of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today, the Fort of Pula serves as a museum and you can visit it.
Cycling in Pula
Like many Croatian cities, Pula is also a great cycling destination. It is a quiet city with not much traffic, but plenty of bike paths.
Would you also like to get to know the destination better by bike? During the Pula Highlights Tour, you cycle in about 3 hours past all the top sights such as:
- Naval Cemetery
- Naval Friedhof
- Lungomare Promenade
- Saccorgiana Cave
- Ambrele Beach
- Sveta Stijena Wall
- Canyon Ridge at Verdula
- Valovina Beach
In the summer period, you have a stop halfway for a refreshing swim at the most beautiful caves and cliffs! So don’t forget your swimwear.
Planning to do a bike tour with the whole family in Pula? There are also children’s bikes and child seats available. Additionally, the bike tour is suitable for young and old, and if necessary, the route and pace will be adjusted.
Are you also excited about your city trip to Pula? Book quickly and don’t forget the bike tour. A bike tour is truly the way to explore this Croatian city well during your city trip!