How to get to Pula

Pula is the largest city on the Istrian peninsula in Croatia, renowned for its magnificently preserved Roman amphitheatre and the picturesque Adriatic coastline. If you are planning to travel to Pula for a combination of ancient history and seaside relaxation, it is useful to explore the available routes in advance. Understanding how to get to Pula is quite simple: the city boasts a developed infrastructure, welcoming travellers by plane, international buses, ferries, and cars.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the resort is a direct flight. Pula International Airport (PUY) is located just 6 kilometres from the city centre, making the transfer to your holiday destination remarkably short and comfortable.

The airport actively receives scheduled and charter flights from many major European cities, especially during the high tourist season. If you cannot find a suitable direct route, you might consider flying into airports in neighbouring cities such as Rijeka, Trieste, or Venice as an alternative, from where it is easy to reach the Istrian coast by intercity bus or rental car.

The railway station in Pula is located near the waterfront; however, it is important to note a specific feature: the Istrian railway network is isolated from the rest of Croatia. For this reason, there is no direct connection with Zagreb, but the station receives trains from Slovenia, operating on the route from Ljubljana.

For travel from other Croatian regions or European countries, it is most convenient to travel by train to Rijeka and cover the remaining part of the journey by bus. Another popular option is transit via the Italian city of Trieste or the Slovenian city of Koper. Koper serves as an important railway hub on the coast, from where you can quickly and comfortably reach Istrian resorts by public transport or taxi.

Bus services are one of the most reliable ways to get to the Istrian peninsula, allowing you to enjoy scenic coastal views along the way. The busiest route runs from neighbouring Rijeka: comfortable coaches cover the distance of 100 kilometres in approximately one and a half to two hours, operating with excellent regularity.

It is also convenient to arrive from neighbouring countries, combining a visit to Croatia with a tour across Europe. The journey from Trieste in Italy will take about three hours, while the trip from the Slovenian resort of Portorož takes less than two hours, covering a distance of about 90 kilometres.

Travelling by car across Istria offers the opportunity to enjoy changing landscapes, from mountain ranges to the sea coast. The most popular domestic route leads from the city of Rijeka: the distance of 100 kilometres is easily covered in an hour and a half via a modern highway passing through the Učka mountain range. If you are driving from the Italian city of Trieste, the journey of about 120 kilometres will take approximately two hours but requires crossing the Slovenian border, where a vignette is required for toll roads.

Another convenient entry option is from the side of the Slovenian resort of Portorož, which is located just 90 kilometres from Pula; travel time without traffic jams will be slightly over an hour. Travellers without personal transport can use a taxi or book a private transfer, the cost of which from neighbouring European cities usually varies from 120 to 160 euros. Please note that during the high season, traffic on coastal highways becomes denser, so travel time may increase slightly.

Preparing for your trip to Pula will make your holiday as comfortable as possible and help avoid minor organizational difficulties. To ensure you can focus on exploring ancient Roman architecture and relaxing on the Adriatic coast, we have compiled a list of useful recommendations for you.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is mild and Mediterranean. In summer, you will need light clothing made of natural fabrics, a head covering, and sunglasses; however, evenings can be fresh, so a light jacket is advisable. Be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes: the historic centre is paved with cobblestones, and heels are unsuitable for exploring the ruins.
2. Transport: The city centre is compact enough for walking, but for trips to distant beaches, it is convenient to use the yellow city buses operated by Pulapromet. It is more economical to purchase tickets in advance at newsstands (Tisak), as they are more expensive when bought from the driver.
3. Finances: The official currency in Croatia is the Euro. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, including restaurants and supermarkets, but always keep some cash notes and coins with you. They will be useful for paying for parking, shopping at markets, in small bakeries, or souvenir shops.
4. Health and Safety: Pula is a safe city; pharmacies are easy to find by the sign with a green cross and the inscription "Ljekarna". The main feature of the beach experience here is the rocky seabed and the presence of sea urchins. It is strongly recommended to purchase special rubber footwear ("aqua shoes") for swimming to protect your feet from needles and sharp stones.
5. Communication: Locals speak Croatian, but thanks to the region's tourism focus and historical past, almost everyone speaks English and Italian fluently. German is also widely spoken among hotel and restaurant staff.
6. Local Etiquette: Croatians value politeness. When entering a shop or café, it is customary to greet people with the phrase "Dobar dan" (Good day). Please note that the city enforces strict rules prohibiting walking in the historic centre and shops in swimwear or with a bare torso — doing so may result in a fine.
7. What to Avoid: Try not to plan a visit to the Amphitheatre during the peak midday summer heat — there is practically no shade. Also, avoid exchanging currency in dubious places with unfavourable rates; it is better to use official ATMs or banks.
8. Additional Tip: If you wish to bring back an authentic souvenir, look for Istrian olive oil or truffle products. Istria is famous for these delicacies, and it is better to buy them not in tourist shops in the centre, but at the city market (Tržnica), where the locals themselves shop.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to easily navigate the city and feel confident in any situation. Pula is a hospitable place where respect for local traditions guarantees you a warm welcome and unforgettable impressions.