Top 10 Attractions in Pula

• The Pula amphitheater
• Olive Oil Museum in Pula
• Temple of Augustus
• Monastery and Church of St. Francis
• Pula Fortress
• Zerostrasse
• Arch of the Sergii
• Pula Market
• Beaches in Pula
• Aquarium in Pula

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Pula is located at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula. It’s a city rich in history and natural beauty. This blog explores some of the top attractions that make Pula an unforgettable destination for visitors from around the world.

The Pula amphitheater

When people think of Pula, the magnificent Pula Arena often comes to mind first. It is the sixth-largest amphitheater in the world. Constructed in the 1st century over a wooden structure, it was later transformed into a stone building during the Flavian dynasty. Today, it is the largest and best-preserved monument in all of Croatia. 

In the rooms once used by gladiators, you can now visit an exhibition on the “Olive Growing and Viticulture of Istria in Antiquity.” Just a few steps from the Arena is the House of Istrian Olive Oil, where you can continue exploring the world of olive growing in Istria.

Olive Oil Museum in Pula

Near the Arena, as mentioned, is the House of Istrian Olive Oil. This museum offers a unique insight into the rich history of Istrian olive cultivation, showing the evolution of olive processing from Roman times to the present. If it’s raining, you’ve chosen the perfect place to spend the day. 

Visitors can discover the scents and tastes of Istrian extra virgin olive oil and learn about its health benefits. Expert guides will teach you how to recognize high-quality olive oil, for which Istria is widely recognized. 

In the shop of the House of Istrian Olive Oil, an impressive selection of Istrian extra virgin oils awaits you. The offer includes Istrian spirits, truffle products, items made from olive wood, souvenirs, and more. Also, you can participate in educational tastings to acquaint yourself with the true taste of Istria.

Temple of Augustus

Built in honor of Emperor Augustus, this monument is located in the main square of the Forum. Today, it stands out as one of the best-preserved ancient buildings in Croatia, attracting history and architecture enthusiasts from all over the world with its elegant Corinthian columns and preserved facade.

Monastery and Church of St. Francis

Near the Forum in Pula, you can visit the Monastery and Church of St. Francis, dating back to 1209. This Franciscan architecture monument blends Mediterranean style, Gothic elements, and early Renaissance details, making it particularly interesting for architecture enthusiasts. The church altar features one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic wooden sculpture in Istria, adding even greater cultural and historical significance.

Pula Fortress

The Fortress in Pula, or Kaštel, is located on a hill from which you can view the entire city and the city harbor. It served as a military and defensive structure in the 17th century during the rule of the Venetian Republic. Today, it houses a history museum that offers visitors a chance to explore and learn more about Pula’s military past. If it’s a rainy day, what could be better than a pleasant walk through the museums.

Zerostrasse

Underground tunnels, or Zerostrasse, stretch beneath almost the entire city of Pula. They were built during World War I as shelters from air raids on the city and were also used as ammunition storage and communication channels between parts of the city. Currently, part of the tunnels is used for various social and cultural events. The ticket prices for adults are 6 euros, children aged 5 to 16, students, and pensioners pay 3 euros, and entry is free for children under 5 years old, persons with disabilities, and their companions.

Arch of the Sergii

Located in Pula’s Portarata Square, it is believed that the Arch of the Sergii was erected sometime between 30 and 10 BC, not as a standalone structure but as part of the city gates, known as Porta Rata, Aurata, or Golden Gate. Its construction was funded by Salvia Postuma, a member of the prominent Sergii family, in honor of three men from her family, as recorded in the inscriptions on the arch itself. 

In the Wicar Museum in Lille, France, there is a drawing by Michelangelo of Pula’s Golden Gates.

Pula Market

The city market in Pula is an architectural beauty in the Art Nouveau style, built in 1903. It was constructed in a modern style using iron and glass, which was a real novelty at the time. The building of Pula’s market is among the more beautiful structures in Croatia, and last year, this architectural gem celebrated 120 years of existence. It remains an important symbol of Pula, having retained its original purpose to this day: the ground floor houses fishmongers and butchers, while the upper floor is home to cafes, shops, and similar.

Beaches in Pula

Whether you’re looking for the perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, or water sports, the beaches in Pula have something for everyone. Some of the most famous include Havajsko Beach, often described as the most beautiful beach with a Caribbean atmosphere due to the turquoise color of the sea. Saccorgiana Beach is ideal for families with children due to various attractions and a children’s playground, and if you’re a fan of adventurous cliff jumps, then Galebove Rocks are the best choice for you.

Did you know that olive oil is also one of the best natural sunbathing preparations?! If you’ve already visited the Museum of Istrian Olive Oil, you’ve surely learned about all the benefits of olive oil. If you want a tanned complexion, use olive oil, but be careful because it does not protect the skin from UV radiation.

Aquarium in Pula

The Pula Aquarium is located in a century-old Austro-Hungarian fortress on Cape Verudela. It is the largest aquarium in Croatia and is home to various marine species of the Adriatic Sea and tropical waters. Visitors can enjoy views of sea turtles and other marine animals, making it one of the perfect places for a family outing, especially for the youngest.

These attractions are just a part of the rich architectural heritage and nature that Pula offers. Every corner of the city is steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers eager to explore.