Local insights: discover Pula

Pula is one of those cities where even the most ordinary walk becomes a journey through history. The Romans left an indelible mark here, and their legacy still dominates in almost every corner of the larger city center. One of the most famous monuments is certainly the Arena of Pula, which rightly bears the title of the symbol of the city.

However, in this article we are not going to focus only on what most people already know well. Read on and find out first hand what to see, where to eat, where to go to the beach and find the ideal accommodation – both in Pula and its surroundings!

Sightseeing

A visit to Pula would not be complete without a tour of the city. Here is our route for a walking tour of the city:

Arena → Tito Park (Pula in miniature) → Twin Gates (Porta Gemina) → Zerostrasse → Hercules Gate (Porta Ercole) → Portarata Square (Sergian Arch) → Forum Square (Temple of Augustus, City Hall)

To break the monotony of sightseeing, take a little detour and visit the souvenir shops or have a craft beer in one of the bars in the Forum Square.

End your walk by taking a seat on the waterfront and, as night falls, enjoy the view of Pula’s “Lighting Giants“.

Events

On top of the numerous cafes and clubs that are classic places to meet and have fun, Pula also has 2 iconic stages that host numerous musical events. The Pula Arena has been converted into a concert venue and every summer numerous local and international musicians perform under the starry sky. Another venue where concerts are held is the former quarry Cave Romane (on the way to Pješčana Uvala).

Where to eat

In Pula and its surroundings you will find a number of restaurants offering meat and fish specialties:

• Gaucho Steakhouse – Large selection of grilled dishes, generous portions. Homemade brandies and original desserts. Be sure to try the steaks.
• Restaurant Katarina – Located on the island of Sveta Katarina, it has a beautiful terrace by the sea. The prices are more than acceptable considering the location. They offer fish and meat, recommendation for the meat platter.
• Gagliardo – Restaurant in the very heart of the city, serving Istrian specialties. The owner is our former colleague, so be sure to mention that you booked through us and who knows, you might even get a discount (don’t take our word for it, but it’s worth a try 😄).
• Hook and Cook – One of the best fish street food restaurants in Istria and beyond. Popular with the younger generation, they offer a wide selection of fish burgers, fries and local craft beers. P.S. They also have their own shop.
• Pjero Istrian Gourmet – A popular place for brunch in the heart of the Pula market. There is also an outdoor terrace. The restaurant publishes a daily menu that is valid until 16:00. They also offer delivery to the larger city center.
• Restaurant Markat – It operates on the principle of a canteen, offering lunch and dinner at extremely affordable prices, so it is an ideal choice if you are on a limited budget. The fish is excellent!
• Bocca Vera (Medulin) – Steak, octopus, salmon, pizza, tiramisu – the menu has it all. Private parking, friendly staff and a view of the sea.

Where to go to the beach

It is common knowledge that one has to go an extra mile to get to the most beautiful beaches, and the same goes for Pula. There are numerous coves in its surroundings that hide some of the most beautiful beaches in Istria. On the way, you will have a fair share of roundabouts (another symbol of the city 😉) – but trust us, once you reach the sea, you will see that the drive was worth it.

• Hawaii beach – A small cove with a pebble part, surrounded by rocks. It is very popular, so it is crowded at all times of the day, except early in the morning.
• Valkane – A public beach with a concrete and pebble section, has a large pier for sunbathing and jumping. The entrance to the sea is accessible, there is shade in some parts. There is a bar at the beach.
• Histria – A pebble beach near the Histria Hotel, on one side of the beach there are rocks. There are sunbeds and umbrellas and a small bar that is open in the high season.
• Njive, Radovica (Cape Kamenjak) – Two pebble coves with turquoise waters. Each has a beach bar – near Radovica is the popular Safari Bar. Both have parking lots, but they are somewhat far away, so you will have to walk a bit (the terrain is rough, so bring good shoes).
• Pješčana Uvala – The main pebble beach in Pješčana Uvala with a sandy entrance to the sea. Great for families with children as there is shade. Along the beach there are restaurants and cafes.
• Bijeca (Medulin) – The only sandy beach in Istria. Shallow and accessible entrance to the sea, numerous water sports. Ideal for families with small children.

Where to camp

You will find several of our campsites in the greater Pula area. You can see the entire offer here, and these are the 3 we have selected for you:

• Arena Stoja is a year-round campsite located not far from the center of Pula. It is beautifully maintained and has a long coastline, so there are no crowds on the beaches. It is ideal for both pre- and post-season stays.
• Arena One 99 Glamping is known as one of the most beautifully decorated campsites in Istria. It offers accommodation in air-conditioned glamping tents. It has a number of contents for the entertainment of children and adults.
• Arena Grand Kažela offers accommodation on pitches and attractive camping villas in the first row by the sea. In the center of the campsite there is an infinity pool and there is also a long promenade along the sea.