Pula

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Pula's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Old Town Stroll
morning
:

Begin your journey with a leisurely breakfast at a café overlooking the ancient Forum. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the Arch of the Sergii. Visit the Temple of Augustus to glimpse the town’s Roman legacy.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a light lunch at a traditional konoba near the harbor. Join a guided walking tour that highlights Pula’s most iconic landmarks. Spend time exploring local shops and artisan stalls in the Old Town.

evening
:

Dine on fresh Mediterranean seafood while watching the sunset over the Adriatic. Sample local delicacies like buzara and truffle pasta paired with a glass of malvasia. Take a post-dinner stroll along the waterfront promenade to soak in the illuminated cityscape.

day 2
Amphitheater and Archaeological Museum
morning
:

Start with a guided tour of the stunning Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Learn about gladiator battles and the architecture that has endured for millennia. Capture panoramic photos from the upper tiers.

afternoon
:

Explore the Archaeological Museum of Istria to see artifacts spanning Roman and Venetian eras. Wander through interactive exhibits showcasing ancient sculptures and mosaics. Pause for coffee at the museum café with views of the inner courtyard.

evening
:

Experience dinner under the stars at an open-air arena event if available or at a nearby restaurant. Enjoy live classical music performances echoing against ancient walls. Conclude with a leisurely walk through the softly lit Old Town.

day 3
Beach Day at Punta Verudela
morning
:

Head to the sandy shores of Punta Verudela for a refreshing morning swim in crystal-clear waters. Rent a sun lounger and umbrella at one of the beach clubs. Indulge in a smoothie or light snack from a beachside bar.

afternoon
:

Try paddleboarding or kayak along the rugged coastline to discover hidden coves. Relax on the sun-drenched rocks and listen to the gentle lapping of waves. Enjoy a seaside lunch featuring grilled fish and fresh salad at a chiringuito.

evening
:

Return to Pula for an al fresco dinner at a seafood bistro near the marina. Sip a aperitif as you watch boats bobbing in the harbor lights. End the night with gelato and a stroll along the pier.

day 4
Brijuni Island Safari
morning
:

Catch an early ferry from Fažana to the Brijuni archipelago and enjoy a scenic boat ride. Disembark to explore the lush islands by tourist train, stopping at sites like the Roman Villa Rustica. Gaze at exotic animals in the safari park.

afternoon
:

Visit Tito’s Summer Residence and learn about its Cold War past. Wander through the botanical gardens with over five hundred plant species. Relax with a picnic lunch overlooking the Adriatic.

evening
:

Return to Pula and refresh at your accommodation before dinner. Choose a waterfront restaurant serving Istrian specialties like škampi buzara. Conclude the day with a nighttime harbor walk illuminated by lanterns.

day 5
Istrian Wine and Olive Oil Tasting
morning
:

Travel inland to a charming family-run winery nestled among rolling hills. Tour the vineyards and learn traditional Istrian winemaking techniques. Sample crisp malvasia and robust teran alongside fresh local olive oil.

afternoon
:

Enjoy an intimate lunch featuring homemade prosciutto, cheese, and freshly baked bread. Stroll through olive groves to discover centuries-old trees. Meet the producers and hear stories passed down through generations.

evening
:

Head back to Pula for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant in the Old Town. Pair slow-cooked meat or vegetable dishes with regional wines. Finish the evening with a digestif at a cozy wine bar.

day 6
Historical Fortresses and Panoramic Views
morning
:

Begin at the 17th-century Fort Bourguignon perched on a hill overlooking Pula. Climb to the ramparts for panoramic views of the city and the sea. Explore the maze of underground tunnels used for defense.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Fort Punta Christo for a peaceful picnic amid pine forests. Wander along hidden paths and discover secluded coves. Snap photos from the lookout points facing the Brijuni Islands.

evening
:

Return to downtown for dinner at a terrace with city skyline vistas. Taste traditional dishes infused with truffles and fresh seafood. Cap the night with cocktails at a rooftop bar.

day 7
Gastronomic Market and Cooking Class
morning
:

Visit the lively Pula Green Market for a sensory feast of colors and aromas. Select fresh produce, seafood, cheese, and herbs under the guidance of a local chef. Learn about seasonal specialties and artisanal products.

afternoon
:

Join a hands-on cooking class in a traditional konoba to prepare Istrian dishes. Master recipes like fuži pasta with truffle sauce and grilled fish. Enjoy your creations accompanied by local wine.

evening
:

Dine on the flavors you have prepared in a convivial group setting. Swap stories and recipes with fellow travelers and your chef instructor. End the night with a stroll through the ambient Old Town lanes.

day 8
Coastal Cycling and Hidden Beaches
morning
:

Rent bicycles and begin your ride along the scenic coastal path toward the east. Stop at rugged viewpoints to admire cliffs plunging into the azure sea. Breathe in the fresh seaside air as you pedal between olive groves and vineyards.

afternoon
:

Arrive at a hidden pebble beach for a relaxing swim and beachside lunch. Loungers and picnic spots dot the shore where you can unwind. Explore nearby tidal pools teeming with marine life.

evening
:

Cycle back to Pula as the golden sun begins to set over the horizon. Savor a casual dinner at a beachfront tavern featuring wood-fired specialties. Treat yourself to a glass of local rosé while watching the last light fade.

day 9
Private Boat Cruise and Snorkeling
morning
:

Embark on a private boat charter from Pula Harbor and cruise along the Istrian coastline. Drop anchor at pristine bays for swimming and snorkeling in translucent waters. Discover underwater caves and vibrant marine life.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a seaside barbecue on board fresh from the local market. Sample grilled squid, octopus, and seasonal greens tossed in olive oil. Bask in the sun or relax in the shaded cockpit with a book.

evening
:

Return just in time for an aperitivo at a stylish marina lounge. Watch the sky change colors as you sip on spritzers. Opt for a fine dining experience in the city with a view of the lit-up arena.

day 10
Farewell Cultural Evening
morning
:

Spend a leisurely morning revisiting your favorite Old Town spots and souvenir shopping. Pop into artisan boutiques for handcrafted trinkets and edible gifts like truffle oil. Enjoy a final gelato by the sea.

afternoon
:

Take one last scenic walk along the Lungomare maritime promenade. Marvel at public art installations and panoramic coastal views. Relax on a bench with an iced coffee beneath the pine trees.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance such as an open-air concert or theater show at the Arena. Celebrate with a farewell dinner featuring Istrian tasting plates and regional wines. Toast to new memories before preparing for departure.

Discover Pula

Read more in our Pula 2025 Travel Guide.

Pula Travel Guide