When people visit Croatia, they usually head to popular tourist locations such as Zadar, Hvar, or Dubrovnik. However, situated at the very top of Croatia’s Istrian peninsula is Pula; a quaint harbourside town drowning in history that should be on everyone’s Croatia itinerary.
In my opinion, this is one of Croatia’s hidden gems in Europe that I’ve found myself going back to multiple times. If you’re umm-ing and ahh-ing about whether Pula is a great base, then let me persuade you by telling you about all of the fantastic things to do and see in the area.
SEAGULLS ROCKS (GALEBOVE STIJENE)
10 minutes west of Pula town center is one of the best rocky bays in the district; Seagulls Rocks. Featuring some of the clearest waters around the country, this is arguably one of Croatia’s best-kept secrets. It’s a popular location for many water sports, but most notably sea kayaking, as many enjoy weaving in and out of the caves and spotting marine life as they float! Viator is a trustworthy platform where local tour companies offer a bunch of different packages to ensure you experience the very best of Seagulls Rocks!
If you’re looking for more great beaches in Pula, then check that out here: best beaches in Pula
Tip: It’s a rocky bay, so you will need some of these.
PULA COLOSSEUM
Pula Colosseum dates back to 17 BC and stands as one of the last amphitheater’s to remain with the full circumference intact. Today, the colosseum is predominantly used for outdoor events; I flew out to Pula for a nearby festival and they held the final night in the colosseum, so I can vouch for it being a great venue and a sight worth seeing!
KAMENJAK NATIONAL PARK
30 minutes south of Pula is Kamenjak National Park and I can’t recommend it enough! There’s a whole host of things to do, from cliff jumping to renting bikes and cycling around the park! You’ll also want to check out the Safari bar – it’s one of the most unique bars that contain more than just drinks!
In my opinion, this is one of the best things to do in Istria that should not be missed!
Tip: Don’t forget to take some water shoes and a snorkel!
SCUBA DIVING IN PULA
If you’ve never been diving then you’ve seriously been missing out on something great in life! If you’re in Pula then take the opportunity to get up close and personal with the marine life that inhabits the beautiful Istrian coast! The diving center in Pula offers some great packages depending on your experience….they’ll even take you down to some hidden shipwrecks!
STAND-UP-PADDLE GLOW NIGHT TOUR
Ok, this one I haven’t done, but it’s on my list of things to do next time I go back to Pula – which is why I’m telling you. If you can’t guess from the name, the stand-up-paddle glow night tour is an evening tour that takes you around the bay while you pootle along on a glowing paddle-board. The important part to note is that it’s GLOWING, as this allows you to peak underwater at the marine life! According to the reviews, it’s also a great way to stargaze as your float through the calm waters….sounds like a perfect date night to me!
DOLPHIN WATCHING IN PULA
The Adriatic sea is home to some very playful dolphins which many locals will be willing to take you out to meet. You’ll find various advertisements around the town, so make sure you book on to create some great memories and capture some brilliant holiday snaps!
LIGHTING GIANTS
As already mentioned, Pula is a harbourside town and as such, it’s home to one of the world’s oldest working shipyards! Designer Dean Skira has turned this into a piece of art known as ‘The Lighting Giants’, at night the cranes are illuminated with different colours and dance to a sequence that reflects artistically in the water.
COOKING CLASSES AND WINE TOURS
Get an insight into the culinary culture of Croatians by booking onto the highly praised experience; EatIstria Cooking Classes & Wine Tours. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a group, this team will organise your transport and make it their mission to ensure you have a fun-filled night of cooking fresh, local produce. They emphasise that while there will be the opportunity to meet the winemakers, there will be more drinking than boring babble about the wines so that you can experience the true Croatian way of life!
ARCH OF THE SERGII
Head toward the center of Pula and you’ll discover the Arch of the Sergii. Serving as a tribute to the members of the Sergii family who fought in the Battle of Actium in France – this triumphal arch dates back to 27 BC!
BRIJUNI NATIONAL PARK
If you head 15 minutes north of Pula to Fažana, you’ll be able to catch a boat ride around the 14 Brijuni Islands before landing at Brijuni National Park. Here there will be activities such as snorkeling, or more cultural things to do like exploring the Roman remains and wandering around the Tito museum. Even if you don’t fancy doing any activities in the national park itself, the boat ride around the stunning islands is still worth the trip!
Tip: Don’t forget to take some water shoes and a snorkel!
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Millie x
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