Pula, Croatia | Ancient Wonders and Modern Charm
Pula, Croatia, is a bustling industrial port city at the southern tip of Istria. The town’s central highlight is the remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater, locally referred to as the Arena. This structure dominates the city center. It also serves as the venue for open-air summer concerts and the annual Pula Film Festival.
Croatia’s Adriatic coastline has become a popular vacation destination in recent years. This destination draws visitors from around the globe to its mix of charming cities, welcoming locals, and sandy beaches.
Pula stands out as one of the best places visit on your next yacht charter. This stunning town offers a combination of beautiful waterscapes and interesting historical buildings. Read on to learn more about why you should book your next vacation aboard a yacht in Pula, Croatia.
Pula | Things to see and do
- See the Arena. This Roman Amphitheater, built in the 1st century, the outstanding Arena overlooks the port steps away. Originally designed to seat close to 20,000 people, today, it hosts open-air concerts in the summer and fall.
- Walk to Forum Square. Originally the Roman forum, nowadays, this is Pula’s main square. The Temple of Augustus, built between 2 BC and AD 14, overlooks the square.
- Browse the stalls at Pula’s Trznica (covered market). This elegant two-floor iron-and-steel building opened in 1903. Stallholders sell everything from seasonal fruit and vegetables to fresh fish, meat, and cheeses.
- Next up, stop at the House of Istrian Olive Oil to learn about olive oil. Istria, similar to Italy, is famous for some of Europe’s best olive oil. While there, be sure to take a bottle or two home with you!
- See the Lighting Giants on Uljank island in Pula Bay. Each evening at dusk, eight industrial cranes glow with colorful lighting.
- Try scuba diving with the Orca Diving Center. Your yacht Captain and crew will arrange such excursions, so note your desires on your preference form.
- Visit Kamenjak Nature Park on the Premantura peninsula, south of Pula city center. Here you can try windsurfing with Windsurf Station.
- Dine on Istrian seafood specialties. Konoba Batelina in the waterside suburb of Banjole is a good choice. Batela’s tavern is all about basic, simple, and traditional food without the frills of fancy culinary techniques.
Marinas and Anchorages
- ACI Marina Pula is in the heart of the historic harbor, within a short distance from the Arena. The marina has 194 berths, a restaurant, a customs office, free Wi-Fi, and an ATM.
Towns Near Pula, Croatia
Porec: Porec boasts a stunning historic old town. See landmarks such as the Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rovinj: On the western coast of Istria, Rovinj is a picturesque town characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a romantic Old Town that sits atop a small hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Umag: Along the northwestern coastline of Istria, Umag is famous for its lively atmosphere and rich history.
