Pula, situated on the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, is a city loaded with cultural history. It is known worldwide for its stunning Roman amphitheater, where gladiatorial fights took place. Pula is also home to a variety of fabulous beaches, renowned for their clear waters which are perfect for a relaxing dip.
Driving and Car Hire
Car Hire Choices
Picking the wrong car for your holiday can put a dampener on your experience. If you're planning on taking long drives along coastal roads, consider a convertible for the the sun-soaked journey. For those who have a family trip in mind, an estate or an SUV would obviously be the more practical choice. Also, while manual transmission is popular in Croatia, automatic cars are available for those used to driving them.
Driving Rules
Driving in Pula is on the right-hand side, which might be different if you're used to left-hand driving in the UK. Speed limits are also slightly different, with a max speed of 130 km/h on motorways, 110 km/h on express roads, 90 km/h on other roads outside populated areas and 50 km/h in populated areas. Remember to carry your driving license, proof of insurance, and ID at all times when driving.
Parking and Mobility
Parking in and around central Pula can be tricky because of limited parking spaces. There are car parks available, both free and paid ones, with prices starting from 5 Kuna/hour. In addition, traffic can get heavy during the summer season so plan your journey times accordingly to avoid peak times.
Getting Here
Pula is easy to get to with an international airport only 7km from the city. You can also arrive by train, with Pula being the end of the line from Slovenia and Trieste in Italy.
What not to miss
The Roman amphitheater, or Pula Arena, is a must-visit. It's among the six largest surviving Roman arenas in the world. Furthermore, Pula's old town is a trove of ancient Roman architecture including the Triumphal Arch of the Sergii, the Temple of Augustus, and Twin Gates.
Local Currency
The local currency is the Croatian Kuna, even though Croatia is a part of the EU. Keep in mind that not all places accept card payments, so it's handy to keep some cash.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Pula, like the rest of the Istrian peninsula, has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are normally hot and dry, and winters mild and rainy. The best time to visit Pula is between April and September, when you can fully take advantage of the sunny weather and all the outdoor activities available.
Let's hope your trip to Pula is filled with great memories and stunning experiences.
