Roman history, medieval architecture and the Adriatic Coast give Pula a range of distinctive highlights. The Arena, museums, exhibition venues and the approximately four-kilometre-long Lungomare promenade offer different starting points for your stay. Individual guided tours, tastings and events require separate planning.

Roman History and Architecture

The Pula Arena is a nationally significant cultural monument dating from the 1st century, when Pula was a Roman colony. In its underground chamber, a permanent exhibition presents ancient Istrian olive and wine production, with reconstructed presses, mills and amphorae. If you would like to visit this exhibition, check access details in advance.

The Temple of Augustus also offers a glimpse into the Roman past: it displays ancient Roman sculptures and reliefs from Pula and the surrounding area. In the old town, you’ll find Galerija Sveta Srca, a museum and gallery space run by the Archaeological Museum of Istria. The exhibition programme may change. The Church and Monastery of St Francis tell a different architectural story: this monastery complex dates from the 14th century. The church was built in 1314 in the late Romanesque style and features Gothic decorative details.

The Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria is housed in the Kaštel; visitor access may vary. If you are planning to visit the museum, check current access arrangements in advance. The Archaeological Museum of Istria is also preparing a permanent exhibition on the history of Istria, from prehistoric times to the modern era. It is scheduled to open in late 2026 or early 2027. If this exhibition is important to your trip, check the latest opening information.

The Pula Observatory was founded in 1869 as part of the Royal Hydrographic Institute and is Croatia’s oldest astronomical institution. Pula’s cultural history therefore encompasses a scientific centre as well as Roman and medieval buildings.

Underground Spaces and Stages

Tunnel 12 of Zerostrasse is open to visitors, approximately 400 metres long and equipped with a central hall. As opening arrangements may change, check them before your visit. The restored Small Roman Theatre has a different character: it serves as a venue for concerts, theatre and performances. Events vary. If you would like to plan an evening around one, check the dates in advance.

Coast and Nature

The Lungomare is an approximately four-kilometre-long coastal promenade. Its landscape features pine forests, rocky shores, sea views and access to the Adriatic. Its stated length makes the promenade a specific coastal highlight to include in your plans; it can be considered separately from visits to museums and historic buildings.

Pula Aquarium is located in Verudela Fortress and showcases more than 250 animal species from the Adriatic and Mediterranean. It also supports conservation projects for sea turtles and the endangered noble pen shell. The exhibits may change. Alongside the historical perspective, it offers another way to experience the region’s nature.

Tastings and Trip Planning

The Olei Histriae Museum offers guided tastings by prior reservation. Options include wine and local specialities. Book in advance; tastings are subject to the relevant booking and operating conditions.

For planning purposes, the offerings can be grouped by type: historical collections and architecture, venues with specific event dates, and a distinct coastal highlight. If a performance, tasting or access to an exhibition is central to your plans, check the date, reservation requirements or access arrangements specifically rather than assuming these visits are available spontaneously.

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