Pula – Sailing, history & Mediterranean lifestyle in Istria

Pula is far more than just a well known harbour town. It combines Roman history, Mediterranean ease and an exceptional sailing area right on its doorstep. Anyone setting off from here will experience one of Croatia’s most captivating regions directly from the water.

The perfect starting point for your sailing holiday

The two Pitter Yachtcharter bases in the modern marinas Veruda and Polesana offer ideal starting conditions for yacht charter cruises in the northern Adriatic.

From here, sailors can easily reach:

• the islands of Istria
• Kvarner Bay
• and Brijuni National Park

Perfect for relaxed routes with short distances and plenty of sheltered bays.

A visit to the city of Pula is almost essential. This vibrant harbour town delights visitors with a beautiful promenade, charming shops and an extraordinary concentration of historic landmarks.

Pula, a city steeped in history

Pula is one of the oldest cities on the Adriatic and looks back on an impressive past:

The first settlements were established here as early as the Neolithic period. During Roman times, the city developed into an important harbour, before later gaining major strategic significance as a key naval base of the Habsburg Monarchy. This long and eventful history can still be felt throughout the city today, making Pula a truly special destination. 

The Roman amphitheatre of Pula is among Croatia’s most remarkable landmarks and one of the best preserved in the world. It is the undisputed highlight of any visit to the city.

The famous amphitheatre, the city’s landmark

A visit is especially worthwhile:

• at sunset 
• or during cultural events in summer 

Pula as a naval and fortress city

With its development into the most important war harbour of the Habsburg Monarchy, Pula acquired a military character that remains visible to this day. A dense defensive system of coastal forts was built around the city to protect the harbour. Particularly striking are sites such as the Kaštel Fortress above the old town, as well as the coastal forts Fort Verudela and Fort Punta Christo, which still define the cityscape and coastline.

The infrastructure beneath the city also bears witness to this period: Zerostrasse forms part of an extensive underground tunnel system that served as a protective and transport network for the military and civilian population during the First World War.

The city itself continues to reflect this history. Alongside Roman monuments, there are many buildings from the Austro Hungarian period, including former barracks, administrative buildings, residential houses in the characteristic style, as well as harbour and shipyard facilities that underline Pula’s importance as a naval centre. In this way, the city still combines its ancient heritage with a distinctive maritime and military architectural legacy.

Mediterranean city life today

Alongside its rich history, Pula also captivates visitors with a vibrant, contemporary flair and the characteristically relaxed Mediterranean way of life. Between historic walls, lively squares and the waterfront promenade, there is a special lightness in the air that invites you to linger.

This atmosphere unfolds naturally in the narrow streets: pavement cafés, open boutiques and the gentle clinking from restaurants shape the urban scene. Between the historic façades, many dating back to the Austro Hungarian era, charming shops invite you to browse:

• regional products
• small fashion boutiques
• souvenirs with local character

Perfect for a relaxing pause: an espresso in the square, a refreshing drink, and simply enjoying the Mediterranean rhythm of the city.

Experience Pula in a short time

This harbour city has something for everyone, from charming shops and a lively promenade to a wealth of museums and cultural landmarks, especially for those interested in history. 

Pula can be explored beautifully in around 2 to 3 hours, compact, varied and full of memorable impressions:

• Arrive and admire: Begin your walk at the Arena of Pula, the city’s landmark and one of Croatia’s most impressive monuments.
• Stroll and discover: From there, continue at an easy pace towards the old town. Small lanes, cafés and buildings from different eras tell the story of the city, from antiquity to the Austro Hungarian Monarchy.
• Views over the city and sea: A short walk leads up to Kaštel Fortress. From here, you can enjoy splendid views over the rooftops, harbour and surrounding coastline.
• Beneath the city: Zerostrasse reveals a fascinating underground tunnel system from times gone by. 

In a short space of time, this creates a vivid impression of history, sea and Mediterranean charm, ideal for a brief yet unforgettable stay in Pula. 

Thanks to their proximity to Pula, the two Pitter Yachtcharter bases in Veruda and Polesana are ideal starting points for a sailing holiday in the northern Adriatic as well as for visiting the city of Pula.

Tip: Spend your final night in Brijuni National Park

A special highlight at the end of your cruise: spend your final night in Brijuni National Park, a natural paradise just off Pula. The history of Brijuni National Park stretches from early settlements and the Roman era to its use as a summer residence of the Habsburg Monarchy and later as a prestigious state and leisure retreat in the 20th century.

Today, the islands are home to a safari park with wild animals, as well as numerous archaeological sites from antiquity, remains of Roman villas and historic buildings. This blend of nature, wildlife and history makes the islands truly unique.

• Admission: approx. €15 for children and young people, €30 for adults
• Mooring fee for yachts: approx. €5/m
• Marina: Brijuni/Brioni Islands 

The island group offers peace, nature and a truly distinctive setting for the final evening of your sailing holiday.