Pula Area

Pula Area holidays

Croatia’s Pula region – also known as the Istrian Riviera – is a triangular peninsula that dangles off the Adriatic coast just below Slovenia and the north-east coast of Italy. The Pula region’s resorts are built for fun and sun, but it’s also packed with ancient treasures waiting to be discovered.

Villa Sunce

Vodnjan, Pula Area

Bedrooms

4
Bathrooms

4
Sleeps

8

Villa Galleria

Labin, Pula Area

Bedrooms

6
Bathrooms

6
Sleeps

12

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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

Rabac, 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...