Nestled on the stunning Istrian Peninsula, Pula, Croatia, is a coastal gem known for its rich history, Roman architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. With its ancient Pula Arena amphitheater, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture, Pula beckons travelers seeking an immersive experience on the Adriatic coast. In this article, we’ll serve as your guide to this coastal treasure, showcasing top hotels, restaurants, shopping spots, and memorable events that make Pula a captivating destination.
Hotels
Pula offers a range of accommodations to suit various preferences:
- Park Plaza Histria Pula: Located on the Punta Verudela peninsula, this modern hotel offers stunning sea views, a spa, and easy access to some of Pula’s finest beaches.
- Hotel Amfiteatar: Situated right in the city center, this boutique hotel boasts a historical atmosphere and is just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Roman Amphitheatre.
- Verudela Beach & Villa Resort: Ideal for families and beach lovers, this resort offers self-catering apartments, pools, and proximity to the beautiful Verudela Beach.
List of Pula hotels (three stars – * * * ) (updated 5th October 2023)
- Amfiteatar “Amfiteatarska 6 52100 Pula”
- Aurora “Put od fortica 98 52100 Pula”
- Galija “Epulonova 3 52100 Pula”
- Istra (ex Neptun-Istra) “Veli Brijun 52100 Pula”
- Milan “Stoja 4 52100 Pula”
- Park Plaza Arena with two annexes Garden Suit (ex Park) “Verudela 31 52100 Pula”
- Pula “Sisplac 31 52100 Pula”
- Scaletta “Flavijevska 26 52100 Pula”
Pula hotels (four stars – * * * * ) (updated 5th October 2023)
- Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, A Radisson Collection Hotel (ex Hotel Grand Brioni) “Ulica Verudela 16 52100 Pula”
- Oasi (ex Mega) “Pješćana Uvala ogr. X 12a 52100 Pula”
List of Pula hotels (five stars – * * * * * ) (updated 5th October 2023)
- Villa Vulin “Tommaseova 10 52100 Pula”
Restaurants
Pula’s dining scene is a delightful journey through Istrian and Mediterranean flavors:
- Kantina: A local favorite for seafood. Kantina offers fresh catches and traditional Istrian dishes in a cozy setting.
- Farabuto: Located in the heart of the old town, Farabuto is a charming restaurant that specializes in Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
- Trattoria Vodnjanka: The renowned Pula’s Trattoria Vodnjanka has been crafting authentic local specialties for over four decades. In a charming, rustic setting adorned with keepsakes, the Civitico family’s fourth generation offers simple homemade dishes during the day. In the evening they broaden the option of a four-course seafood or meat menu. Showcasing ingredients freshly sourced from the Pula market or local producers.
Shopping
Pula offers various shopping experiences:
- Forum: Wander through the city’s historic center, Forum, and explore boutique shops selling clothing, jewelry, and handmade crafts.
- Pula City Mall: If you prefer modern shopping centers, Pula City Mall offers a range of international brands and retail options.
Visit Pula Arena Concerts and other Events
Pula hosts a variety of cultural and entertainment events:
- Pula Film Festival: Held at Pula Arena Colosseum in July, this renowned film festival attracts cinema enthusiasts with a selection of national and international films.
- Outlook Festival: For music lovers, the Outlook Festival in nearby Fort Punta Christo showcases cutting-edge electronic music and bass culture.
- Arena Pula Concerts: Enjoy live music performances and concerts held in the historic Pula Arena, a Roman amphitheater that dates back to the 1st century AD. In 2023, Pula’s Arena hosted Florence + The Machine, Robbie Williams, Simply Red and Eros Ramazzotti to name a few.
Conclusion
Pula invites travelers to explore a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering through ancient Roman ruins, savoring Istrian cuisine, shopping for local treasures, or immersing yourself in cultural events, Pula promises an enriching coastal adventure. Its fusion of history, cuisine, and stunning landscapes makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a captivating experience on the enchanting Istrian Peninsula.
