A Guide for a One Day Trip to Pula

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Pula is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Croatian coast and the largest city on the Istrian peninsula. It is best known for its many well-preserved architectural and other monuments from the Roman era when it was called Pola. In addition to Roman heritage, Pula offers many other attractions as well as enjoyment of Istrian gastronomic delicacies and wine. What is the best way to spend a day in Pula? Read below.

1. Arena - The most famous and significant monument, the building from which each tour of the city begins and ends - Pula Arena, the building where gladiator fights were held. It was built in the 1st century, during the reign of Emperor Vespasian. Today, the Pula amphitheater organizes many cultural and educational events, including Roman historical shows with actors and music concerts.

2. Forum - Pula's Roman Forum has been the central town square since the time of the Roman colony of Pola. It has changed over time, and only the Temple of Augustus testifies to its ancient period. In Roman times, the forum was the main place of the social life of the city.

3. House of Istrian Olive Oil - As the olive is a symbol of the Mediterranean, its cultivation has been very common in Istria since time immemorial. Therefore, it is not surprising that Pula has a museum dedicated to olives and olive oil. In the museum, you can find out how oil used to be processed and obtained throughout history, but you also have the opportunity to try and taste the best Istrian oils.

4. Church of Our Lady of the Sea - During the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy at the end of the 19th century, Pula housed many members of its navy, so a naval church was built in the then main seaport. Today it is the main parish for the local population, and it is accompanied by the legend that due to the change of three architects, Emperor Francis Joseph scratched the marble to check whether the church was built of gold, given that he financed it.

5. History and Maritime Museum of Istria - The History Museum of Istria holds over 50,000 items, from weapons throughout history to uniforms and military equipment, flags, relics and cannons. The naval part is also represented by exhibits of naval warfare, objects from former shipyards and equipment.

6. Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Pula Cathedral was built on the site where Christian believers gathered at the time of the persecution of Christians. The church was rebuilt over the centuries, and today's form was created by rebuilding it in the 17th century. The church houses the relics of five saints housed in five sarcophagi.

7. Waterfront - Pula's waterfront stretches down St. Peter's Street, along the southeastern coast of the Bay of Pula. This is a place to socialize and meet, especially for the locals. The waterfront offers a beautiful view of the Colosseum and the harbor. In the immediate vicinity, there are many green parks, which are also ideal places for rest and socializing.

8. Zerostrasse - Below Pula is an underground world made up of tunnels that stretches through almost the entire Pula. This network has four entrances and is called Zerostrasse. Zerostrasse was created during the First World War to shelter people in the event of airstrikes on the city. Today, various events and exhibitions are organized in the tunnels.

9. Hook & Cook - In this modern street food restaurant you will enjoy dishes made from the best fresh seafood and fish procured by a local fisherman. Here you can taste local traditional flavors prepared in a modern and innovative way every day. Especially popular are tuna tacos, Fritto Misto and tuna steak burger available to guests every day at affordable prices and with great ambiance.

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4.5
(18 reviews)
Gudrun
Pula is really a popular town among tourists.I enjoyed spending my day here. The guide contained several recreational facilities. I visited some and I made epic memories.
Alois
Touring through this House of Istrian olive oil opened my eyes to the vast types of olives and olive oil. The guide highlighted the historical richness of this location and I loved the whole experience. I particularly enjoyed learning about how the oils were processed over the years.
Kenneth
This town is so eye catching. Through the guide I got to know that I can tour this town in one day. The places that are stated in this guide are so unique. These places are actually the trademark of this town.
Ben
We visited the House of Istrian Olive Oil and were privileged to taste the best Istrian oils here. It was awesome to set eyes on the many naval warfare objects exhibited in the History and Maritime Museum of Istia. Thanks to the guide for the wonderful trip.
Mateo
very good!!!
Sophie
Pula offered us many attractions and Istrian gastronomic delicacies and wine as stated by the guide. It was an educative tour, i learnt of the great history of Church of our lady of the sea. Especially how it housed members of its navy contributing to its construction.
Hein
True to the guide, the prices of local traditional flavors were sold at an affordable price. I enjoyed dishes made from fresh seafood and fish caught by local fishermen. It depicts the love and treasure of fishing