Pula Airport

Pula Airport serves as the main aerial gateway to the heart of the Istrian peninsula, welcoming guests with the scent of the sea and a mild Mediterranean climate. Thanks to the terminal's compact size, the hustle and bustle typical of megacities is absent here, and the journey from the aircraft steps to the city exit takes just a few minutes. It is the ideal place to start your journey, as within half an hour of landing, you can be enjoying views of the ancient Roman amphitheatre or relaxing on one of the coast's picturesque beaches.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Pula Airport is characterized by distinct seasonality and a focus on maximum comfort for tourists arriving for holidays in Croatia.

• Compactness and Speed: The small area of the terminal is a huge plus — queues at passport control and baggage claim move very quickly. The absence of jet bridges allows for a short walk across the apron, immediately immersing you in the southern atmosphere.
• Convenient Logistics: The airport is strategically located not only in relation to Pula but also to other popular resorts on the peninsula, such as Rovinj, Poreč, Umag, and Medulin. A transfer to any of them does not take much time.
• Transport Accessibility: Shuttle services synchronized with flight arrivals are organized for passengers. Additionally, a wide selection of car rental companies is available right in the terminal, which is ideal for road trips around Istria.
• Local Flair: Even in the departure zone, you can continue your acquaintance with the region. The Duty Free shop offers an excellent selection of local delicacies: famous Istrian olive oil, truffles, and premium local products.

• Official Website: airport-pula.hr
• Information Desk Phone: +385 52 530 105
• Address: Valtursko polje 210, 52100, Pula, Croatia
• Email for General Inquiries: informacije@airport-pula.hr
• Lost & Found Information: For questions related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact +385 52 530 225 or email lost-found@airport-pula.hr.
• Social Media: Follow the latest news and updates on the airport's official Facebook page.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to passenger services, you can contact the main information desk phone or the official airport email.

Pula Airport (PUY) is located approximately 6-7 kilometers from the center of Pula and serves as the main aerial gateway to the Istrian peninsula in Croatia. There are several ways to get to or from the airport to the city and popular resorts. The most budget-friendly option is the shuttle bus. It runs between the airport and the main bus station in Pula. The bus schedule is usually coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, especially during the tourist season. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes, and the ticket price is quite reasonable. From Pula bus station, it is easy to reach other Istrian towns such as Rovinj, Poreč, or Umag.

For those who value speed and comfort, a taxi or pre-booked transfer is the ideal choice. Taxi stands are located right at the exit of the arrivals terminal. A trip to the center of Pula will take just 15-20 minutes, though it will cost significantly more than the bus. To avoid price surprises and guarantee vehicle availability, especially if traveling with family or large luggage, it is recommended to book a private transfer online in advance. The driver will meet you with a name sign, and you will travel at a fixed rate.

Car rental is an excellent option for travelers planning to actively explore the picturesque corners of Istria. Pula Airport hosts offices of both major international and local rental companies. You can arrange a rental directly upon arrival, but during the peak season (from June to September), it is strongly recommended to book a car online in advance. This not only guarantees the availability of a vehicle of the desired class but often allows for savings. The drive to the center of Pula by car takes about 15 minutes.

If you are getting to the airport by your own or rented car, the official parking located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal is at your service. It is suitable for both short-term stops (meeting or seeing off passengers) and long-term parking for the duration of your holiday. The cost depends on the parking duration, but the prices are quite reasonable.

When planning a trip to the Istrian peninsula, it is worth considering alternative airports located in neighboring regions. Nearby are Rijeka Airport (RJK), Portorož (POW) in Slovenia, and Trieste Airport (TRS) in Italy. Slightly further, but with excellent transport connections, are major hubs such as Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) and Miramare Airport (RMI) in Rimini. From these airports, you can reach Pula by intercity buses or rental car, giving you more flexibility in choosing flights and prices.

Pula Airport (PUY) is a compact and functional aviation hub with a structure that is intuitively understandable even for those visiting for the first time. You won't have to worry about complex transitions or long transfers between different parts of the building.

A key feature of the airport is the presence of a single passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation: all zones — arrivals, departures, check-in, and security — are under one roof. Thanks to its small size, it is practically impossible to get lost in the airport.

The terminal layout is logical. Arrival and departure zones are located in the same building but clearly separated. Upon arrival, you follow signs to the baggage claim area and the exit, where car rental desks and taxis await. For departing passengers, the process is also standard: first, you enter the general hall with check-in counters, then pass through security and passport control (for flights outside the Schengen area), after which you find yourself in a small waiting hall with several boarding gates.

The time required to complete all formalities depends heavily on the season. Outside of peak loads (in spring or autumn), check-in and security checks may take just 20-30 minutes. However, during the summer season, especially in July and August, the airport handles many charter flights, and queues can be significant. During this period, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance — at least 2-2.5 hours before an international flight departure, to go through all procedures without rushing.

The history of Pula Airport goes back to the beginning of the 20th century, making it one of the oldest aviation sites in the region. Initially, as early as 1911, a military airfield of the Austro-Hungarian army was located on this site. The airport began to acquire its modern status and purpose significantly later. After World War II, it was used as a military base, and only on May 6, 1967, was it officially opened for civilian transport, which became the starting point of its development as an important transport hub for tourists.

A key stage in the airport's history was the construction of a new passenger terminal, which began in 1987 and was completed in 1990. This project was driven by the rapid growth of tourist flow to the Istrian peninsula. The new terminal, designed to handle up to 1 million passengers per year, allowed the airport to accept a greater number of flights and significantly improve service quality. This large-scale reconstruction transformed the former military airfield into a modern aerial gateway, ready for the challenges of the growing tourism industry.

Since Croatia gained independence, Pula Airport has continued its development, focusing mainly on seasonal and charter flights from Europe. In subsequent years, various modernizations of the runway and navigation equipment were carried out to meet international safety standards. Today, the airport plays a key role in the economy of Istria, serving as the main arrival point for thousands of tourists heading to the peninsula's popular resorts during the summer season.

Interesting fact: despite its long history, the airport has retained its compact dimensions, which many travelers appreciate for fast and convenient navigation. Although it is not among the largest airports in Europe by passenger traffic, its strategic location and ability to effectively handle peak summer loads make it indispensable for the entire region. Record numbers of passengers served are typically recorded in July and August, highlighting its strongly pronounced seasonal character.

Pula Airport (PUY) is a modern and convenient gateway to the Istria region, Croatia. Despite its compact size, the terminal offers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for your flight. Before departure, you can have a snack in one of the cafes or enjoy a coffee at the bar. For those wishing to shop, a Duty-Free store is available, where you can purchase perfumes, beverages, Croatian delicacies, and souvenirs to remember your trip.

To stay connected, passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. If your gadget runs out of power, finding a free socket for charging will not be difficult. For travelers who value enhanced comfort, a business lounge operates at the airport. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, work, or enjoy snacks and drinks away from the main hustle of the departure hall.

Pula Airport provides all basic financial conveniences. You will find ATMs and a currency exchange office here, where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure. In case of unforeseen health situations, there is a first aid station in the terminal ready to assist passengers.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. A barrier-free environment has been created for travelers with limited mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance if assistance is needed. Families with small children will appreciate the availability of mother and child rooms, where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet setting.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget are located just a few minutes' drive from the terminal in Pula itself and the surrounding areas. For business travelers, essential business services such as workspaces and internet access are provided by the previously mentioned business lounge. It is excellent for working quietly or holding a small meeting before departure.

Pula Airport (PUY) is a small and cozy airport where dining options are concentrated mainly in the main terminal building. Although the selection here is not as vast as in major hubs, you will be able to find everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight, whether it's a quick snack or a full meal.

Before Security Control (Landside)

The main restaurant is located in the public area of the airport. This is the best place if you have plenty of time before departure or are seeing off loved ones. Here you can order hot dishes, including both international cuisine and some Croatian specialties. It is an ideal option for a leisurely lunch or dinner. Prices here are moderate for an airport, and portions are quite generous. Also in this zone, a small cafe usually operates where you can have coffee with fresh pastries.

After Security Control (Airside)

In the departure zone, the choice is more modest and focused on quick snacks. Here you will find a cafe-bar offering sandwiches, salads, pastries, desserts, as well as a wide range of hot and cold drinks, including local beverages. This is the last opportunity to have a snack before boarding the plane, so if you are hungry, it is worth stopping by.

What to Try and Special Diets

Being in Istria, even at the airport, it is worth looking for something with local flair. Look out for sandwiches with Istrian cold cuts or local cheese. Regarding dietary preferences, specialized vegan or gluten-free menus are unlikely to be found here. However, you can always choose a simple salad, fruits, or check the ingredients with the staff. Vegetarians will find it easier — usually, there are several meat-free options on the menu.

Prices and Opening Hours

Prices at Pula Airport, as in any other, are higher than in the city but remain acceptable. For a cup of coffee and a pastry, you will pay about 5–8 euros, and a full hot meal in the restaurant will cost 15–25 euros. The opening hours of establishments depend directly on the flight schedule, especially during the tourist season. On days with high traffic, they are open from the first to the last flight.

When planning a trip through Pula Airport, several points should be considered to make your journey as comfortable as possible. Pula Airport, especially in the summer season, can be quite busy, so arrive early: 2–2.5 hours before international flights and 1.5–2 hours before domestic or Schengen area flights. This time will be sufficient to go through all procedures calmly.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline offers this option. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if traveling light, to the security checkpoint. Screening procedures are standard, but queues may form during the peak season. Be ready to take all electronic devices and liquids out into a separate tray in advance.

When choosing a seat on the plane, note that flights to and from Pula often pass over the picturesque coast of Istria and numerous islands. If you want to enjoy stunning views, choose a window seat. For those who value comfort and the ability to stand up freely, an aisle seat is better suited.

Hand luggage rules comply with international standards. All liquids (gels, creams, aerosols) must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in one transparent bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Always check the exact norms and rules on your airline's website, as they may differ slightly.

Pula Airport is not a major transfer hub, and most passengers begin or end their journey here. If you do have a transfer planned, thanks to the compact size of the terminal, it will be quick and convenient. Verify at check-in whether your luggage will be transferred automatically to the final destination.

Customs control when entering Croatia from non-EU countries follows the "green" and "red" channel system. If you have no goods to declare, proceed through the green channel. Tourists leaving the European Union can process Tax Free on purchases made in the country. Counters for tax refunds are located in the departure zone.

To save time and money, book a transfer to your hotel or parking in advance if arriving by car. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher than in the city. Bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security — this is both economical and eco-friendly.

In case of flight delays, remain calm. Contact your airline representative for information. According to EU rules, for long delays, passengers are entitled to drinks, meals, and in some cases, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to claim compensation later. As the airport is small, the number of cafes and shops is limited, so be prepared for this.