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About Pula and Istrian Coast
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Culture, cuisine and coastlines – Pula and the Istrian Coast has got them all and more. This picture-postcard part of Croatia has heaps of history and knockout beaches, with a generous spritz of Italian-inspired dolce vita on the side. Sun-seekers, history buffs and foodies have plenty to play with here, as modern seaside resorts rub shoulders with Roman ruins and majestic Mother Nature in all her glory. And these shores were made for romance. Think pretty promenades, trattorias serving up lemon-sprinkled seafood under the stars and buckets of old-world charm.
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Featured Accommodation
Hotel ID
71639
Hotel ID
79489
Hotel ID
70471
Hotel ID
70346
Hotel ID
73466
Hotel ID
74720
Destination Page
https://main--holidays--jet2-plc.aem.page/destinations/croatia/pula-and-istrian-coast

Language

Croatian

Currency

Euro (€)

Time difference

+1hr

Cost of a beer

£2.50

3 course meal

£55.50

Flight times

2.5hrs

The Romans, the Venetians and the Austrians have all ruled the Pula and Istrian Coast region at one time or another. And it’s easy to see why they were so keen on the spot. It comes with 250km of sun-soaked coastline backed by dense forests, hill-hugging villages and rocky cliffs.

Modern resorts

The region is a summer holiday hotspot, and a sprinkling of modern resorts has sprung up to cater for the sun-seeking crowds. Pula town, Rovinj, Poreč, Umag and Medulin are all geared towards fun and sun but look more closely and you’ll still find plenty of traditional charm.

Ancient attractions

The Romans have left their mark all over the region – the beautifully preserved amphitheatre in Pula is a real highlight. It’s actually one of the largest surviving Roman amphitheatres in the world! But you should keep your eyes peeled for Venetian architecture too, especially in the port town of Rovinj.

Beaches

Most of the resorts are fronted by places to bathe rather than your typical beach, but you’ll find some pretty pebbled stretches around both Rovinj and Poreč. If you’re craving the feeling of sand between your toes, plonk your towel down on a family-friendly plot over in Medulin.
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Sights

The Arena in Pula Town is one of the largest surviving Roman amphitheatres in the whole world and rivals the Colosseum in terms of its magnificent preservation. The streets of Rovinj are lined with beautiful Venetian architecture, while Poreč is home to a seriously impressive Romanesque Basilica.
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Activities

The Pula and Istrian Coast region is just as pretty inland as it is by the sea. Take yourself on a walking tour through its rambling countryside, admiring the mountain views, medieval settlements and lush vineyards along the way. It’s a web of natural wonders, so getting out and about is essential.
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Eating and drinking (beaches)

The local cuisine has more than a hint of Italy about it – you’ll find plenty of pasta and risotto dishes on the menu. The seafood tends to be top-notch and fresh from the net. For a hearty Istrian specialty, tuck into a bowl of manestra, a sort of vegetable stew.
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Shopping (beaches)

Souvenir-seekers won’t go home empty-handed. The local markets are brimming with handicrafts, from red coral jewellery to earthenware jugs – it’s a real mixture of wares. Foodies won’t be able to resist the lavender honey, olive oil and fresh truffles. From stalls to malls, you’ll really find it all.
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Nightlife

In the towns, the after-hours scene is usually quite laid-back, with cosy bars and street musicians serenading the squares. But Pula, Umag and Poreč all come with their fair share of beach bars where the party doesn’t stop until dawn. Whatever you fancy, there’s a night out for you.
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