Things to Do in Pula
From Roman amphitheatres to wild cape adventures — the best activities and experiences in Istria's largest city
Your Activity Guide to Pula
Pula is a city where ancient Rome meets the Adriatic. At its heart stands one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world, surrounded by layers of Venetian and Austro-Hungarian architecture, a buzzing harbour, and some of Istria's finest food and wine. Just south of the city, the wild Cape Kamenjak nature reserve offers dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches.
Whether you are exploring 2,000-year-old ruins, cliff jumping at Kamenjak, or sampling truffle-laden Istrian cuisine, Pula delivers an extraordinary mix of history, nature, and culture. Here is your guide to the best things to do.
Top Things to Do
Pula Arena
The sixth-largest Roman amphitheatre in the world, built in the 1st century AD and remarkably well preserved. Once seating over 20,000 spectators for gladiatorial contests, today it hosts summer concerts and the Pula Film Festival. Walking through its arches is like stepping back 2,000 years.
Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds, or attend an evening concert for an unforgettable experience.
Temple of Augustus
This beautifully preserved Roman temple stands proudly on Forum Square, the heart of Pula since ancient times. Built between 2 BC and 14 AD, it is dedicated to the first Roman emperor and now houses a small collection of Roman stone and bronze sculptures.
Tip: Combine with a coffee on Forum Square to soak in the atmosphere of 2,000 years of history.
Arch of the Sergii
A Roman triumphal arch dating from 29-27 BC, decorated with intricate carvings of winged victories, dolphins, and garlands. It marks the former entrance to the old town and remains one of the most photographed landmarks in Pula.
Tip: The arch is beautifully lit at night — return after dark for stunning photos.
Pula Fortress (Kastel)
This imposing Venetian hilltop fortress crowns the centre of Pula, offering panoramic views over the city, harbour, and surrounding islands. Inside you will find the Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria with fascinating exhibits spanning centuries of local history.
Tip: Head to the ramparts at sunset for the best panoramic views over Pula and the Adriatic.
Underground Tunnels (Zerostrasse)
A network of tunnels built beneath the city during World War I to shelter the population during air raids. Today the Zerostrasse tunnels are open to visitors, offering a cool underground walk through Pula{'''}s military history with atmospheric lighting and exhibits.
Tip: A perfect activity for a hot afternoon — the tunnels stay cool year-round.
Cape Kamenjak
A wild nature reserve at the very southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, Cape Kamenjak is famous for dramatic cliff coastlines, hidden beaches, cliff jumping spots, and crystal-clear water. Untouched Mediterranean landscape stretches in every direction.
Tip: Bring water and snacks — facilities are limited. The safari bar near the tip serves cold drinks.
Film Festival at the Arena
Every summer the Pula Film Festival transforms the Roman Arena into an open-air cinema under the stars. Watching a film in a 2,000-year-old amphitheatre with the Adriatic breeze is a uniquely Croatian cultural experience.
Tip: The festival runs in July — book tickets early as screenings in the Arena sell out quickly.
Istrian Food & Wine
Pula is the gateway to Istria{'''}s extraordinary culinary scene. Taste fresh truffles shaved over handmade fuzi pasta, sample award-winning olive oils, savour fresh seafood from the harbour, and explore the region{'''}s celebrated Malvazija and Teran wines.
Tip: Visit the city market (Trznica) in the morning for the freshest local produce and Istrian specialities.
Unmissable Pula Experiences
The Roman Arena
Step inside one of the world{'''}s best-preserved amphitheatres and imagine gladiatorial spectacles from 2,000 years ago.
Forum Square Heritage
Explore the Temple of Augustus and the medieval Town Hall on Pula{'''}s central square, where Roman and Venetian history collide.
Cape Kamenjak
Escape to the wild southern tip of Istria for cliff jumping, hidden coves, and some of the clearest water in the Adriatic.
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