Pula– the largest town on the Istrian peninsula offers a diversity of attractions to lovers of culture. The rich itinerary of its three thousand year old history, where every step you take through the old town is a landmark, begins and ends with the Roman amphitheatre. Here you can expect a wealth of Roman architecture in an unspoiled natural setting in this coastal Croatian city. As the largest city in Istria, Pula actually has quite a lot to offer tourists who want to get a feel for what Istria is really like historically, culturally, and culinary.
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Explore the 6th largest Roman Colosseum in the world
This three-level Colosseum may be much smaller than the one in Rome, but it is no less impressive. The Arena was used until the 5th century for gladiatorial fights and other mass spectacles. Today, the Pula Arena, the Croatia Colosseum, is used to host events and performances, indeed one of Europe’s most celebrated music and live arts venues. You can take a Pula Colosseum tour and learn a bit about it in the attached museum.
See the Lightning giants
Lightning giants are a unique, modern installation, which is used to light the shipyard cranes, forming a work of art. You don’t want to miss Pula’s star evening attraction! Lightning giants has become an attraction and an important landmark of Pula as an active touristic European destination. The performance itself lasts around 15 minutes, and is being held every hour after it gets dark.
Explore beaches
Don’t forget that the sun and the sea are still the main reasons to visit Pula. Get your swimming suit, snorkeling gear, and dive right into the deep blue Adriatic Sea. Most of the main beaches here have walkable paths and steps to reach. Along the route you’ll see various steps to reach small coves where you can enjoy the sunshine and views. The most beautiful beach in Pula is Hawaii Beach– it is almost hidden within Principina Cove and the colours are breathtaking.
Eat local food
Pula is a foodie’s dream destination. You can eat local, fresh and seasonal food here. While you are in Pula, you need to try: truffles, pork tenderloin, bean soup for the fall and winter, asparagus, wild mushrooms, crab meat, cheese curd, scrambled eggs for the spring, fresh vegetables, anchovies, sardines, and other fish.
Visit Arch of Sergii
The Arch of Sergii is a triumphal arch dedicated the three Sergii brothers. The Sergii family was one of the most powerful and influential families in Pula. Built in 29 BC, the arch specifically celebrates the victory at Actium and was funded by the brothers’ sister. Decorated with statues, inscriptions and columns, the archway has long held the fascination of artists – including famous Michelangelo.
Sample local fare from the market
Pula green market is located in the center of Pula. Pula’s marketplace consists of: the modern fish market, butcher shop, the exterior of the ground floor, the market ground floor and the open part of the market. Here, you can sample local fare from the market – like burek (a savory and flaky pastry) from a bakery or fresh in-season produce.
Go for a food walking tour
If you want to spoil your taste buds, you need to take a food walking tour and enjoy the tastiest experience in Pula. During the Pula food tour, you will get to know about food and wine culture. Your guide will give you unique local insight, full of stories and facts, history and presence about the city attractions, and Istrian culinary. Locals will pick the best selection of famous dishes for you and your friends.
Sample Istrian wines
In Pula, there are a handful of opportunities to get a glimpse into the wine-making tradition of Istria. A tasting of the wines produced in the vineyards that dot the countryside is one of the most fun activities in Pula. You need to taste white varietal – Malvasia, and red varietal – Teran, whih are both unique to Croatia. You can also visit Trapan vinary, located just a few kilometers from the city of Pula.
This beautiful city, in Croatia’s coastal northwest, has lots to offer. If you’re looking somewhere that offers sun, sea, great days out and places to explore, you’re in the right place. Especially in recent years, this city has become a really popular place for tourists from all over the world.