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Pula Area
Pula Area
Pula Area holidays
Culture, cuisine and coastlines – the Istrian Riviera’s 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.
Language
Croatian
Currency
Croatian Kuna
Time difference
+1hr
Cost of a beer
around 20 kuna a bottle
3 course meal
around 250 kuna
Flight times
2.5hrs
Historically popular
The Romans, the Venetians and the Austrians have all ruled the Pula 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.
Umag
The pretty old town of Umag is all burnt orange roofing and mazes of old-world streets, encased in tall walls.
Fazana
A fishing village with rich history and the keys to the Brijuni Islands – that’s Fažana. It’s been famous since ancient times for its wine and olive oil production, so you can bet you’ll get the best of both!
Labin
Medieval and Mediterranean merge together in this circle of terracotta rooftops, snuggled within dense hillside.
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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Golden Cape Beach
Rovinj, Pula Area
The wild and rocky Golden Cape Beach is on the edge of a forest park. While it’s one of the most popular beaches in the area you can easily find a private spot. In summer you can hire canoes or boats to get out...
Amarin Beach
Rovinj, Pula Area
Amarin Beach, with a Blue Flag and warm waters, is the perfect spot for some fun in the sun and sea. You can hire deckchairs to catch some rays and top up your tan. It is part of the resort and there is a small...
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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Pula Arena
Pula (Resort of), Pula Area
The first-century old Roman Amphitheatre is one of Pula’s most famous sights. It was originally built to host gladiator contests, and is still used as an entertainment spot, regularly hosting concerts with...
Lighting Giants
Pula (Resort of), Pula Area
Watch in awe at one of Pula’s most popular night-time attractions; an illuminated light display at the Uljanik shipyard. Cranes burst into life, shining bright with 16,000 different colour schemes. The show...
Activities
The Pula 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
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
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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Market Square
Pula (Resort of), Pula Area
Found right in the heart of the city, near the Arch of Sergii, Market Square is the thriving central hub of Pula, filled with souvenir shops, boutiques, cafés and fish markets. Pick up a handmade souvenir and...
Carrera Street
Rovinj, Pula Area
The bustling pedestrianised Carrera Street is lined with shops of all kinds. You can snap up shoes and clothing as well as interesting souvenirs for the folks back home, like sea shells and local grape brandy....
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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Waterfront bars
Pula Area
The thriving waterfront area of Rabac is the place to be if you’re after a chilled post-beach bar, swanky cocktail bars, or an after-dark disco. Sip on a cocktail or two, and enjoy a buzzing atmosphere in...
Beachfront bars
Vrsar, Pula Area
Sunset is the best time to visit one of the many bars dotted along the beachfront. You can sit back with a glass of one of the world-famous wines produced locally and admire the view. During the day, bars are...
Climate
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Things to do in Pula
