Pula Old Town Guide

Pula is best known for its spectacular Roman amphitheatre, but some of the most interesting parts of the city’s history are found in the streets beyond the Arena. Pula Old Town brings together ancient Roman remains, medieval architecture and later layers of the city within a centre that is compact enough to explore almost entirely on foot.

Walk through the Arch of the Sergii and follow Sergijevaca Street towards Forum Square, where the Temple of Augustus still stands at the centre of everyday city life. Climb higher through the old streets and you reach the Church and Monastery of St. Francis, the Small Roman Theatre and Kaštel Fortress overlooking the city.

This Pula Old Town guide will show you what to see, which landmarks are worth visiting, the best route through the historic centre, how much time you need and the practical details that can make exploring Pula easier.

In This Guide

• About Pula Old Town
• What Makes Pula Old Town Special?
• Best Things to See in Pula Old Town
• Best Pula Old Town Walking Route
• How Much Time Do You Need?
• Where to Eat & Drink
• Pula Old Town at Night
• Best Time to Visit
• Is Pula Old Town Free to Visit?
• Getting to Pula Old Town
• Parking Near Pula Old Town
• Pula Old Town With Kids
• Practical Tips
• Suggested Old Town Itineraries
• Is Pula Old Town Worth Visiting?
• Frequently Asked Questions

About Pula Old Town

Pula Old Town is the historic centre that developed around the city’s central hill and the ancient Roman Forum. Unlike an enclosed old town with one obvious entrance, Pula’s historic core blends directly into the modern city centre. Roman gates, pedestrian streets and archaeological remains mark the transition as you move through the city.

Its layout still reveals traces of ancient Pola. Forum Square was the centre of public life during the Roman period, while surviving entrances such as the Twin Gate and Arch of the Sergii help show how the ancient city was organised.

Over the centuries, new buildings, churches and fortifications were added around the Roman city. This is what makes Pula Old Town particularly interesting: it is not defined by a single historical period. Roman monuments stand beside medieval buildings, later architecture and places that are still part of everyday life in Pula.

The historic centre is also relatively compact. Most of its major sights can be reached on foot within a few minutes of one another, making it possible to see a surprisingly large part of Pula’s history during a single morning or afternoon.

What Makes Pula Old Town Special?

What makes Pula Old Town special is not one single monument, but the way more than 2,000 years of history remain visible within a living city centre. Roman landmarks, medieval buildings, later fortifications and modern city life all share the same compact area, often only a few minutes’ walk from one another.

The Roman heritage is particularly striking because it is still part of the everyday streetscape. You can walk beneath the Arch of the Sergii, follow the pedestrian Sergijevaca Street to the ancient Forum Square and find the Temple of Augustus standing beside cafés, restaurants and buildings that are still used today.

Climb towards the central hill and another side of Pula appears. The medieval Church and Monastery of St. Francis sits below Kaštel Fortress, while beneath the hill the Zerostrasse tunnels reveal a much more recent chapter of the city’s military history.

This mix of periods gives Pula Old Town its character. It is not a historic quarter preserved only for sightseeing. People live, work, shop and meet here, and many of the city’s ancient landmarks remain part of the routes locals use every day.

For visitors, that also makes the Old Town easy to experience. You do not need to travel between isolated historical sites: Roman gates, squares, churches, archaeological remains and viewpoints can all be connected on foot as part of a single walk through central Pula.

Best Things to See in Pula Old Town

Pula Old Town contains many of the city’s most important historical landmarks within a relatively small area. Roman temples and city gates, medieval churches, archaeological remains and later fortifications can all be connected on foot, making the historic centre one of the easiest parts of Pula to explore independently.

If this is your first visit, do not focus only on the most famous monuments. Some of the best parts of the Old Town experience come from walking between them: following old pedestrian streets, exploring smaller squares and noticing how ancient remains have become part of the modern city.

The following sights are the places we recommend prioritising when exploring Pula Old Town.

1. Arch of the Sergii

The Arch of the Sergii is one of Pula’s best-known Roman landmarks and one of the most natural places to begin a walk through the Old Town.

The triumphal arch was built at the end of the 1st century BC by the Sergii family and originally stood beside one of the gates in the Roman city walls. Today, instead of marking the entrance to a fortified ancient city, it connects the lively Giardini area with the pedestrian streets of Pula’s historic centre.

Take a moment to look at the monument before walking through it. The side facing the Old Town is richly decorated with Corinthian columns, reliefs and architectural details, while the opposite side is noticeably simpler.

Once you pass beneath the arch, you arrive directly on Sergijevaca Street, which leads through the historic centre towards Forum Square and the Temple of Augustus.

Why visit: It is one of the city’s finest surviving Roman monuments and an ideal starting point for exploring Pula Old Town on foot.

2. Sergijevaca Street

Passing through the Arch of the Sergii brings you onto Sergijevaca Street, one of the main pedestrian routes through Pula Old Town.

The street connects the Arch of the Sergii with Forum and follows a route through the historic centre that has been important for centuries. Today it is lined with shops, cafés, small businesses and historic façades, but it also provides one of the easiest ways to experience the everyday character of central Pula between its major monuments.

Do not treat Sergijevaca simply as the quickest way to reach Forum. Look into the smaller streets branching away from it, particularly those climbing towards the Kaštel hill. These quieter passages reveal a different side of the Old Town and make it easy to explore without following a rigid sightseeing route.

Why visit: It connects several of Pula’s major landmarks and is one of the best streets for experiencing the Old Town between sightseeing stops.

3. Forum Square

Forum Square is the historic heart of Pula and one of the most important places to understand how the city has developed over more than two thousand years.

During the Roman period, the Forum was the centre of public life in ancient Pola. Political, religious and administrative buildings surrounded the square, and this part of the city remained important long after the end of Roman rule.

The most prominent monument today is the Temple of Augustus, while the Communal Palace occupies the opposite side of the historic civic centre. Cafés and restaurant terraces now surround much of the square, giving Forum a character that is both historic and very much part of present-day Pula.

This is one of the places where the Old Town’s layered history is easiest to understand. Instead of being an archaeological site separated from the modern city, the ancient Forum continues to function as one of Pula’s main meeting places.

Forum is also a good place to slow down during an Old Town walk. Stop for a coffee, look at the surrounding architecture and then continue towards the Temple of Augustus, Cathedral, St. Francis or the streets climbing towards Kaštel.

Why visit: Forum combines some of Pula’s most important Roman heritage with one of the liveliest and most atmospheric public spaces in the historic centre.

4. Temple of Augustus

Standing directly on Forum Square, the Temple of Augustus is one of the most important surviving Roman monuments in Pula and an essential stop on any Old Town walk.

The temple dates from the early Roman imperial period and was dedicated to Roma and Emperor Augustus. Its well-preserved façade, Corinthian columns and elevated position on the ancient Forum make it one of the clearest surviving reminders of Pula’s importance during Roman times.

You can see and photograph the exterior freely from Forum Square. The interior is relatively small and is used to display a collection of Roman stone sculptures and archaeological material, so visiting inside does not require a large amount of additional time.

The setting is just as interesting as the monument itself. The Roman temple stands beside the Communal Palace and opposite modern cafés and terraces, creating one of the best examples of how ancient and contemporary Pula coexist within the same space.

Why visit: It is one of the best-preserved and most visually impressive Roman landmarks in the historic centre.

5. Pula Cathedral

A few minutes’ walk from Forum is Pula Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The cathedral stands on a site with a long history of Christian worship, and the building visible today reflects several periods of construction, rebuilding and restoration. Its appearance is more restrained than Pula’s monumental Roman architecture, which makes it easy to overlook when moving quickly through the Old Town.

It is worth including because it adds another historical layer to a walk that can otherwise become dominated by Roman sights. The cathedral also lies on a convenient route between Forum, the waterfront and the northern side of the historic centre.

Why visit: It provides a different perspective on Pula’s history and is easy to combine with Forum and the surrounding Old Town streets.

6. Church and Monastery of St. Francis

Set on the slope between Forum and Kaštel, the Church and Monastery of St. Francis is one of the most peaceful historic places in Pula Old Town.

The Franciscan complex dates from the medieval period and has a very different atmosphere from the monumental Roman landmarks below. Its simple stone architecture, church interior and cloister offer a quieter glimpse into another period of the city’s history.

The location also makes St. Francis particularly easy to include in a walking route. From Forum, follow the streets uphill towards the central hill, visit the monastery and then continue towards Kaštel.

Why visit: It adds an important medieval layer to the Old Town and offers a quieter stop between Forum and Kaštel.

7. Kaštel Fortress

Rising above the historic centre, Kaštel Fortress is one of the most distinctive landmarks in Pula Old Town and a natural high point of a walk through the city.

The fortress stands on the central hill that has played an important strategic role throughout Pula’s history. The present fortification was built in the 17th century during Venetian rule, when its elevated position was used to strengthen the defence of the city and its harbour.

Today, the climb to Kaštel is worthwhile not only for the fortress itself but also for the perspective it gives you on Pula. From the hill, you can better understand the compact layout of the Old Town and its relationship with the harbour and surrounding city.

Kaštel is also home to the Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria, so allow additional time if you want to explore the exhibitions rather than simply include the fortress as part of your walk.

Why visit: For the fortress, city views and one of the best vantage points from which to understand the layout of historic Pula.

8. Small Roman Theatre

Just below Kaštel lies the Small Roman Theatre, an important reminder that entertainment and public performances were a significant part of life in Roman Pula.

The theatre was constructed on the eastern slope of the central hill, using the natural terrain as part of its design. Its position also helps reveal how extensively the Roman city developed around the hill above Forum.

The Small Roman Theatre is particularly worthwhile when explored together with Kaštel and the nearby archaeological sites. Rather than making a separate trip, include it naturally while moving between the upper and lower parts of the Old Town.

Why visit: It adds another dimension to Pula’s Roman heritage and fits perfectly into a walking route between Kaštel and the eastern side of the historic centre.

9. Twin Gate

The Twin Gate, also known as Porta Gemina, is one of the surviving entrances into ancient Pula and an important stop for understanding the original Roman city.

Its name comes from the two arched openings that once provided passage through the city walls. Although the surrounding city has changed dramatically since Roman times, the gate remains a visible reminder that ancient Pola was a fortified settlement with controlled entrances.

The Twin Gate is close to several other historic attractions and can be easily included when walking between the Arena, Kaštel and the archaeological area. Parts of Pula’s former city walls can also be seen nearby.

Why visit: It helps you visualise the boundaries and entrances of ancient Pula and takes only a few minutes to include in an Old Town walk.

10. Zerostrasse

Not all of Pula’s history is visible above ground. Beneath the central hill lies Zerostrasse, a network of underground passages that reveals a very different period in the city’s past.

The tunnels were constructed during the First World War, when Pula was an important Austro-Hungarian naval centre. They were designed to provide shelter and protected passages beneath the city during air raids.

Walking underground is a striking contrast to exploring Roman temples and medieval streets above. It also demonstrates why Pula’s history cannot be understood through its Roman heritage alone: the city’s strategic location continued to shape its development well into the modern era.

Zerostrasse can be particularly interesting on a hot summer day, and it combines naturally with a visit to Kaštel and the surrounding historic sites. Check current opening hours and access arrangements before visiting.

Why visit: For a completely different perspective on Pula’s history and the unusual experience of exploring beneath the Old Town.

11. Archaeological Museum of Istria

If the monuments around Pula Old Town leave you wanting to understand more about the city’s ancient past, the Archaeological Museum of Istria is one of the most relevant places to add to your visit.

The museum’s collections cover the archaeology and history of Istria from prehistoric periods through antiquity and the medieval era, providing context for many of the remains you encounter while walking around Pula.

It is particularly useful for visitors with a deeper interest in archaeology. Seeing objects and archaeological material from the region can make landmarks such as Forum, the Roman gates and theatre easier to understand as parts of a much larger ancient city.

Because the museum is located close to several important archaeological sites, it can be incorporated into the same part of your Old Town route rather than requiring a separate journey.

Why visit: It provides valuable historical context for Pula’s Roman monuments and is particularly recommended for archaeology and history enthusiasts.

12. Mosaic – The Punishment of Dirce

One of the easiest archaeological sites to miss in central Pula is the Mosaic – The Punishment of Dirce, a remarkably preserved Roman floor mosaic hidden among the buildings of the modern city.

The mosaic was discovered beneath the city and depicts the mythological punishment of Dirce. Unlike Pula’s monumental Roman architecture, this site offers a more intimate glimpse into the decoration and everyday environment of ancient urban life.

Part of its appeal is the setting. Finding a Roman mosaic surrounded by the modern city reinforces one of the defining characteristics of Pula Old Town: significant archaeological remains are not confined to museums or a single archaeological park but survive throughout the historic centre.

It is a worthwhile addition for visitors interested in Roman history and archaeology, particularly if you have more than a couple of hours to explore.

Why visit: It is one of Pula’s more unusual Roman remains and an excellent example of the archaeology that still survives beneath the modern city.

Best Pula Old Town Walking Route

The best way to explore Pula Old Town is on foot. The historic centre is compact, and a well-planned route connects the main Roman monuments, old city gates, medieval streets and Kaštel without unnecessary backtracking.

For a first visit, we recommend starting near the Pula Arena and finishing at the Arch of the Sergii. This direction takes you through the archaeological side of the Old Town first, up to Kaštel, then downhill towards Forum and the main pedestrian streets.

Pula Old Town Walking Route at a Glance

• Recommended time: 2–4 hours
• Best for: First-time visitors
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Getting around: Entirely on foot
• Main challenge: Uphill streets around Kaštel
• Suggested start: Pula Arena
• Suggested finish: Arch of the Sergii / Giardini

Route:

Where to Eat & Drink in Pula Old Town

Pula Old Town is one of the easiest parts of the city for combining sightseeing with lunch, dinner or a coffee break. Restaurants, cafés and bars are spread throughout the historic streets, so you rarely need to leave the centre or make a long detour from the main walking route.

The best area depends on what you are looking for. Forum is ideal for a scenic coffee or drink surrounded by historic architecture, while the streets around Sergijevaca and the wider Old Town offer more choice for lunch and dinner. A short walk beyond the historic core brings you to Giardini and Pula Market, where the atmosphere becomes more local and connected to everyday city life.

Forum Square: Best for a Coffee or Scenic Break

Forum Square is one of the most atmospheric places to stop during an Old Town walk. Café and restaurant terraces surround the historic square, with the Temple of Augustus and Communal Palace forming the backdrop.

Forum works particularly well for coffee, an afternoon drink or a relaxed break between sightseeing stops. You are directly on the main Old Town route, so there is no need to sacrifice sightseeing time to reach it.

For the atmosphere alone, this is one of our favourite places to pause while exploring central Pula.

Old Town Streets: Best for Lunch and Dinner

The pedestrian streets between Forum, Sergijevaca and the surrounding historic centre contain a wide range of places to eat, from casual pizza and quick meals to seafood, pasta and restaurants serving Istrian and Mediterranean dishes.

If you want to try local flavours, look for dishes based on fresh seafood, homemade pasta, truffles and Istrian olive oil. Local wines such as Malvazija and Teran are also common choices with dinner.

For a more relaxed experience, explore the smaller streets rather than choosing the first restaurant beside a major landmark. The Old Town is compact enough that walking a few extra minutes can completely change the atmosphere.

Giardini: Best for Local City Atmosphere

At the end of Sergijevaca Street, the Arch of the Sergii opens onto Giardini, one of Pula’s traditional meeting places.

The cafés around this area are particularly good for experiencing the everyday rhythm of the city. Giardini is less about stopping beside a monument and more about sitting down for a coffee or drink where locals have been meeting for generations.

It is also a convenient place to finish an Old Town walk before continuing towards Pula Market or the wider city centre.

Pula Market: Best for a More Local Stop

A short walk from Giardini brings you to the City Farmer’s Market Pula, which is worth including if you want to see a more everyday side of the city beyond its Roman monuments.

The market area is most interesting earlier in the day, when the stalls and surrounding businesses are active. It is a good place to look for fresh produce and local products or simply add a different atmosphere to a morning spent exploring the historic centre.

Because it is only a short walk from the Old Town, you can easily combine the market with sightseeing without needing transport.

Looking for the Best Places to Eat?

Restaurant choices change and the best option depends on whether you want traditional Istrian food, seafood, pizza, a quick lunch or a longer dinner. Rather than limiting yourself to the restaurants directly beside the main monuments, explore our complete guide to eating and drinking across Pula.

Explore Where to Eat & Drink in Pula →

Pula Old Town at Night

Pula Old Town is worth exploring again after sunset. Once the main sightseeing hours are over, the historic centre becomes less about moving between attractions and more about enjoying its squares, pedestrian streets, terraces and evening atmosphere.

Many of the landmarks you see during the day remain part of the experience after dark. Walking from the Arch of the Sergii through Sergijevaca Street to Forum is an easy evening route, especially if you combine it with dinner or a drink in the centre.

Summer evenings are particularly lively, when locals and visitors stay out later and concerts, festivals and cultural programmes regularly bring additional activity to central Pula.

Forum After Dark

Forum Square is one of the best places to experience Pula Old Town in the evening. The Temple of Augustus, Communal Palace and surrounding historic façades create a very different atmosphere once the daytime sightseeing crowds begin to disappear.

Café and restaurant terraces make it easy to spend longer here than you might during a daytime visit. Instead of treating Forum as another sightseeing stop, sit down for a drink and enjoy the fact that Pula’s ancient civic centre is still an active meeting place more than two thousand years later.

Take an Evening Walk Through the Old Town

You do not need a complicated itinerary for an evening walk. Start around Giardini, pass beneath the Arch of the Sergii and follow Sergijevaca Street towards Forum.

Explore some of the smaller side streets along the way rather than following only the main pedestrian route. Distances are short, and wandering without a strict sightseeing schedule is one of the best ways to experience the historic centre after dark.

If you explored Kaštel and the upper Old Town earlier in the day, there is no need to repeat the entire walking route. The lower historic centre around Sergijevaca and Forum is enough for a relaxed evening walk.

Summer Evenings and Events

During summer, Pula’s historic centre also becomes a setting for concerts, festivals, performances and public events. Forum, Giardini and other central locations are regularly incorporated into the city’s seasonal programme.

This means an ordinary evening walk can sometimes lead directly into live music, an outdoor performance or another event taking place in the centre.

If you are visiting Pula during the main summer season, check the current events programme before heading into the Old Town. It can be worth planning dinner and your evening walk around something happening nearby.

What’s On in Pula?

Pula’s event calendar changes throughout the year, with the largest concentration of outdoor concerts, festivals and cultural programmes generally taking place during the warmer months.

Explore upcoming events in Pula →

Best Time to Visit Pula Old Town

The best time to explore Pula Old Town is in the morning or late afternoon. Both periods are particularly good for walking, sightseeing and photography, while also avoiding the hottest part of the day during summer.

The Old Town can be visited throughout the year, but the experience changes with the season. Summer brings the liveliest atmosphere and the largest programme of events, while spring and early autumn are especially comfortable for exploring the historic centre on foot.

Morning: Best for Sightseeing

Morning is our preferred time for a first walk through Pula Old Town, especially from June to September. The streets are generally quieter, temperatures are more comfortable and you can explore the main landmarks before the centre becomes busier.

Starting early also works particularly well if you want to visit the Pula Arena before continuing into the Old Town. From there, you can follow the historic route towards the Roman gates, Kaštel, Forum and the Arch of the Sergii.

If photography is important to you, morning also gives you more time to explore major landmarks before the busiest sightseeing period begins.

Midday: Better for a Break in Summer

During spring and autumn, midday can still be a comfortable time to explore. In July and August, however, walking through exposed streets and climbing towards Kaštel can feel considerably hotter.

If you are visiting during the peak summer months, use the middle of the day for lunch, a longer coffee break, a museum visit or an underground stop such as Zerostrasse. You can then continue exploring later in the afternoon.

This is particularly useful if you have a full day in Pula: there is little benefit in rushing through the Old Town during the hottest hours when you can divide your sightseeing into a morning and evening walk.

Late Afternoon and Evening: Best for Atmosphere

Late afternoon is another excellent time to explore Pula Old Town. Temperatures begin to ease, the streets become more comfortable for walking and you can naturally combine sightseeing with dinner or an evening drink.

As daylight fades, the character of the historic centre changes. Forum, Sergijevaca Street, the Arch of the Sergii and Giardini become places to spend time rather than simply sightseeing stops.

If you have already visited the museums and ticketed attractions earlier in the day, an evening walk through the lower Old Town is one of the easiest ways to enjoy central Pula without following another fixed itinerary.

Spring and Early Autumn: Best for Walking

Late spring and early autumn offer one of the best balances for exploring Pula Old Town. The weather is generally better suited to longer walks than during the hottest summer weeks, while the city still has plenty of activity.

May, June and September are particularly attractive if your priority is sightseeing rather than spending the entire holiday at the beach. You can explore the historic centre more comfortably and still combine Pula’s cultural sights with outdoor activities and the coast.

Summer: Best for a Lively Pula

June to August is the liveliest period in Pula. Restaurants and terraces are busy, the city hosts a wide range of events and the Old Town remains active well into the evening.

July and August are also the busiest and hottest months. If you visit during peak summer, the timing of your Old Town walk matters more than at other times of year. Start earlier in the morning, take a break during the hottest hours and return to the centre later in the day.

The reward is a very different atmosphere after sunset, when historic squares and pedestrian streets become part of Pula’s summer evening life.

Winter: Quiet and Uncrowded

Winter offers the quietest version of Pula Old Town. Roman monuments, historic streets and public squares remain easy to explore without summer crowds, making this an interesting time for travellers primarily interested in history and the city itself.

The trade-off is a quieter atmosphere and reduced seasonal activity. Some attractions, tours and hospitality businesses may operate shorter hours or close seasonally, so check current opening information if there are specific places you want to visit.

Our recommendation: For a first visit, explore Pula Old Town between 9:00 and 12:00, particularly in summer. If you prefer atmosphere over sightseeing, return in the late afternoon and stay into the evening for dinner, drinks and a second walk through the historic centre.

Is Pula Old Town Free to Visit?

Yes. Pula Old Town itself is completely free to explore. There is no entrance fee for the historic centre, and you can walk through its streets, squares and pedestrian areas at any time without buying a ticket.

What Can You See for Free?

You can experience a surprisingly large part of Pula’s history without paying for admission. Walking through the Old Town gives you free access to its public streets and squares, while many major landmarks are clearly visible from public areas.

• Walk beneath the Arch of the Sergii
• Explore Forum Square
• See the Temple of Augustus from the square
• Walk through the Twin Gate
• Explore Sergijevaca Street and the surrounding Old Town streets
• Visit Giardini and other public squares in the city centre
• See many Roman remains and historic buildings from the outside

This makes Pula Old Town a good option even if you are visiting the city on a limited budget.

Many of Pula’s most important landmarks can also be seen from the outside for free. This includes the Arch of the Sergii, Twin Gate, Forum Square and several other Roman and historic sites along the main Old Town walking route.

You only need to pay if you choose to enter certain monuments, museums or attractions.

Which Old Town Attractions Require a Ticket?

Admission is generally required when you want to enter museums, exhibitions or the interior of certain historic monuments. Attractions such as Kaštel and Zerostrasse, the Temple of Augustus and some museum collections operate with paid admission.

The Pula Arena also requires a ticket to enter, although you can see much of the amphitheatre from the surrounding public areas without going inside.

Ticket prices and opening hours can change during the year, so check the current information for individual attractions before your visit.

Do You Need a Ticket to Explore Pula Old Town?

No ticket or city pass is required simply to explore Pula Old Town. You can follow our complete walking route and see many of the main landmarks without purchasing anything in advance.

If you want to enter several attractions, decide which interiors are most important to you rather than assuming you need a ticket for every historical site. For many visitors, combining the free Old Town walk with one or two paid attractions provides the best balance.

Our recommendation: If this is your first visit, explore the Old Town freely and choose one or two paid attractions that interest you most. This gives you a much better experience than trying to enter every monument along the route.

Getting to Pula Old Town

Pula Old Town is located in the centre of the city and is easy to reach on foot, by local bus, taxi or car. Once you reach the historic centre, walking is by far the best way to get around.

There is no single entrance to Pula Old Town. The historic streets connect directly with the modern city centre, with the Arena, Giardini, Arch of the Sergii and waterfront all providing convenient starting points for exploring on foot.

If this is your first visit, arriving near the Pula Arena works particularly well because you can begin with the amphitheatre and then follow our Old Town walking route through the historic centre.

Getting There on Foot

If you are staying in or around central Pula, you probably will not need transport at all. The Old Town is compact and directly connected with the surrounding city centre.

Once you reach the Arena, Giardini or the Arch of the Sergii, most of the major Old Town sights are within walking distance. Forum, Sergijevaca Street, Twin Gate, Kaštel and the surrounding historic streets can all be explored as part of the same walk.

Keep in mind that the streets around Kaštel climb towards the central hill. Distances are short, but some sections are steeper than the mostly flat streets around Forum and Giardini.

Getting to Pula Old Town by Bus

Local buses connect residential areas, tourist zones and other parts of Pula with the wider city centre. If you are staying outside the centre, taking a bus into central Pula and continuing on foot is usually more practical than trying to move between Old Town sights by public transport.

Where you should get off depends on your route and where you are staying. Once you reach the central area, the distances between the main historical attractions are short enough that you can continue entirely on foot.

Check the current local bus routes and timetables before travelling, as services and schedules can change during the year.

Getting There by Taxi

A taxi is a convenient option if you are staying farther from the centre, travelling with luggage or want to avoid walking to the Old Town from your accommodation.

Instead of asking to be dropped somewhere deep inside the historic streets, choose an easy landmark on the edge of the centre such as the Pula Arena or Giardini. From there, continue through the Old Town on foot.

This is also useful during summer, when you may prefer to save your walking for the historic centre itself rather than the journey into town.

From Pula Bus Station

If you arrive in Pula by intercity bus, the main bus station is relatively close to the historic centre. For most travellers without heavy luggage, walking towards the Pula Arena is a practical way to begin exploring the city.

The Arena makes an especially useful first landmark because it sits just outside the core of ancient Pula and connects naturally with the rest of our Old Town walking route.

If you have luggage, limited mobility or simply do not want to walk from the station, taking a short taxi ride into the centre is the easier option.

Getting to Pula Old Town by Car

If you are arriving by car, do not plan to explore the Old Town by driving between attractions. The historic centre contains pedestrian areas, narrow streets and traffic restrictions, while the major sights are close enough together that a car offers little advantage once you arrive.

The better approach is to park near the centre and complete the rest of your visit on foot. Where you should park depends on which direction you are arriving from, how long you plan to stay and how close you want to be to the main sights.

See the next section for our practical advice on parking near Pula Old Town.

Easiest option: If you are already staying in central Pula, walk. If you are coming from farther away, take a bus or taxi into the centre, or park once and explore the entire Old Town on foot.

Parking Near Pula Old Town

If you are visiting Pula Old Town by car, the best approach is to park near the edge of the historic centre and continue on foot. Much of the Old Town is pedestrianised, and the main attractions are close enough together that you will not need your car once you start exploring.

For the Forum and western side of the Old Town, parking around Flaciusova Street and Benediktinske Opatije provides convenient access. Parking Dobricheva works well for Giardini, the Arch of the Sergii, Zerostrasse and the walk towards Kaštel, while Parking Riva can be a more practical choice if you plan to spend several hours in the centre.

If you are following the complete walking route in this guide and starting at the Pula Arena, Parking Karolina is the closest option to the amphitheatre.

Parking prices, zones, charging hours and restrictions vary by location and season. For current prices, maps, payment information and a comparison of the best parking areas, see our complete parking guide.

Where to Park in Pula →

Pula Old Town With Kids

Pula Old Town is a good place to explore with children, especially because the historic centre is compact and many of its most interesting sights are outdoors. Roman gates, ancient ruins, squares and the hilltop fortress can be more engaging for children than spending several hours inside traditional museums.

The main sights are also close together, making it easy to shorten your route, stop for a break or change plans if younger children get tired.

For families, we recommend treating the Old Town as a relaxed walk rather than trying to visit every attraction in one day.

Best Old Town Stops for Children

The Pula Arena is usually the easiest place to make Roman history feel impressive for children simply because of its size. Inside the Old Town, the Arch of the Sergii and Twin Gate are quick stops that do not require a long visit.

Forum Square is another useful family stop. The pedestrian square provides space for a break, while cafés and terraces make it easy to stop for a drink or ice cream before continuing.

Older children may particularly enjoy Kaštel Fortress and Zerostrasse, which add fortifications, viewpoints and underground tunnels to a day otherwise dominated by Roman monuments.

Is Pula Old Town Stroller-Friendly?

You can explore much of Pula Old Town with a stroller, but it is not completely stroller-friendly. The historic centre includes stone paving, uneven surfaces, slopes and occasional steps, particularly as you move away from the lower pedestrian streets and climb towards Kaštel.

A lightweight stroller with larger wheels is more practical than a heavy model with small wheels. Forum and the main pedestrian areas are easier to navigate, while the upper Old Town requires more effort.

If you are travelling with a baby or toddler and plan to explore Kaštel and the steeper historic streets, a baby carrier can be useful as an alternative.

Visiting With Kids in Summer

During July and August, the heat is often a bigger challenge for families than the walking distance. Much of the sightseeing route is outdoors, and some historic squares and streets have limited shade.

Start your Old Town visit in the morning or wait until later in the afternoon rather than planning a long sightseeing walk around midday. Bring water, sun protection and comfortable shoes, and use Forum or one of the cafés along the route for regular breaks.

There is no need to complete the entire Old Town route at once. With younger children, a shorter morning sightseeing walk followed by the beach or another family activity can be a much better way to structure the day.

How Long Should Families Spend in Pula Old Town?

For most families, around 2 hours is a good starting point for exploring Pula Old Town. This is enough time to see several major landmarks without turning the walk into a long history lesson for younger children.

Families with older children can easily extend the visit to three or four hours by adding Kaštel, Zerostrasse or another attraction along the route.

Keep the itinerary flexible. Short sightseeing stops combined with a drink, ice cream or lunch break usually work better than trying to follow a strict attraction-by-attraction schedule.

Visiting Pula as a Family?

The Old Town is only one part of a family trip to Pula. Beaches, parks, outdoor activities and family attractions make it easy to combine sightseeing with less structured time for children.

Explore our complete guide to visiting Pula with kids →

Practical Tips for Visiting Pula Old Town

Pula Old Town is relatively easy to explore independently, but a few simple choices can make the visit much more comfortable, especially during the summer months.

• Wear comfortable shoes. Expect stone paving, uneven surfaces, slopes and some steps, particularly around the upper Old Town and Kaštel.
• Start early in summer. Morning is generally the most comfortable time for sightseeing in July and August. You can always return to Forum and Sergijevaca later for the evening atmosphere.
• Bring water. Most of the main walking route is outdoors, and the climb towards Kaštel can feel considerably harder during hot weather.
• Do not rush between landmarks. The Old Town is compact, so allow time for smaller streets, squares and archaeological remains between the major attractions.
• Check opening hours before visiting interiors. Public streets, squares and outdoor monuments can be explored freely, but museums and ticketed attractions may have seasonal opening hours.
• Use Forum for a break. Its central location makes it a convenient place to stop for coffee or a drink before continuing through the historic centre.
• Expect some uphill walking. Forum and the main pedestrian streets are relatively easy to explore, but reaching Kaštel means climbing towards Pula’s central hill.
• Leave the car outside the historic core. Park near the centre and complete the sightseeing route on foot rather than trying to drive between attractions.
• Keep some flexibility in your itinerary. Events, exhibitions and seasonal programmes can give you a reason to spend longer in the Old Town than originally planned.

Accessibility in Pula Old Town

Accessibility varies considerably across Pula Old Town. The lower city centre around Giardini, Sergijevaca Street and Forum is generally easier to navigate, but historic paving and uneven surfaces can still present difficulties.

The upper Old Town is more challenging. Routes towards Kaštel include slopes, steps and uneven historic surfaces, so visitors with reduced mobility may need to adjust the complete walking route.

If accessibility is important for your visit, check the conditions at individual attractions in advance rather than assuming that every part of the historic centre can be reached in the same way.

Good to Know Before You Go

• Best way to explore: On foot
• Recommended time: 2–4 hours
• Best time of day: Morning or late afternoon
• Cost: Old Town is free; individual attractions may charge admission
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes recommended
• Summer: Avoid the hottest part of the day when possible
• With a stroller: Possible, but some upper Old Town routes are less convenient
• By car: Park near the centre and continue on foot

Suggested Pula Old Town Itineraries

How you explore Pula Old Town depends mainly on how much time you have. The historic centre is compact enough for a quick walk, but allowing two to four hours gives you a much better chance to explore the main landmarks without rushing.

Use these suggested itineraries as a starting point and adjust them depending on which monuments, museums and attractions you want to enter.

If You Have 1 Hour: Old Town Essentials

With only one hour, stay in the lower Old Town and focus on the landmarks that can be connected quickly on foot.

Route: Arch of the Sergii → Sergijevaca Street → Forum Square → Temple of Augustus → Pula Cathedral

This short route gives you a good introduction to Roman Pula and the atmosphere of the historic centre without requiring any major detours or uphill walking.

Keep this itinerary mainly to exterior sightseeing. Entering museums or monuments will leave you with much less time for the walk itself.

2–3 Hours: The Best First-Time Old Town Route

This is our recommended option for most first-time visitors. It gives you enough time to see the main Roman landmarks, explore the historic streets and climb to Kaštel without turning the visit into a race between attractions.

Route: Pula Arena → Twin Gate → Small Roman Theatre → Kaštel → St. Francis → Forum Square → Temple of Augustus → Sergijevaca Street → Arch of the Sergii

Allow time for photographs and a short stop at Forum along the way. If you want to enter an attraction, choose one that interests you most rather than trying to visit every interior on the route.

Half Day: Old Town, Museums and a Relaxed Break

A half day allows you to explore Pula Old Town at a much slower pace and add one or two attractions that require more time.

Start at the Pula Arena and follow the complete Old Town route through Twin Gate and the Small Roman Theatre towards Kaštel. From the upper Old Town, continue downhill through St. Francis to Forum, the Temple of Augustus and Sergijevaca Street.

Add Kaštel, Zerostrasse or a museum depending on your interests, then stop for lunch or coffee in the Old Town before continuing.

This is the best option for travellers who are particularly interested in Roman history, archaeology and the different historical layers of Pula.

Have a Full Day in Pula?

If you have an entire day available, there is no need to spend all of it inside the Old Town. Explore the historic centre in the morning, stop for lunch and use the afternoon to discover another side of Pula.

Depending on the season, you can combine the Old Town with a museum, waterfront walk, beach or another part of the city.

For a complete morning-to-evening plan, follow our dedicated itinerary:

One Day in Pula – Complete Itinerary →

Staying Longer in Pula?

If you have two or three days in Pula, there is no reason to fit every historic attraction into a single morning. Spend your first day exploring the Old Town and use the rest of your stay for beaches, coastal areas, activities and nearby destinations.

See our Three Days in Pula itinerary →

Is Pula Old Town Worth Visiting?

Yes. Pula Old Town is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you are interested in Roman history, architecture and exploring a city on foot. Within a relatively small area, you can walk between ancient city gates, Roman monuments, medieval buildings, historic squares and the hilltop Kaštel fortress.

What makes the Old Town particularly interesting is that these landmarks are not separated from the modern city. The Arch of the Sergii still leads into one of Pula’s main pedestrian streets, Forum remains an active public square, and Roman remains appear between cafés, shops, homes and later buildings.

Do not expect a large, perfectly preserved medieval Old Town enclosed by walls. Pula is a living city where more than 2,000 years of history have been layered together. For some visitors, that mixture is precisely what makes exploring it interesting.

For a first visit, allow around 2–4 hours to explore the historic centre properly. If you are visiting Pula for only one day, the Old Town should be one of the main parts of your itinerary.

Who Will Enjoy Pula Old Town Most?

Pula Old Town is particularly rewarding for history lovers, first-time visitors, couples, photographers and travellers who enjoy exploring independently on foot.

It is also a good choice if you prefer sightseeing without a complicated itinerary. The main landmarks are close together, there is no entrance fee for simply walking through the historic centre, and cafés, restaurants and places to stop are never far away.

If Roman history is your main interest, Pula Old Town is one of the strongest reasons to visit the city. The Arena may be Pula’s most famous monument, but the Forum, Temple of Augustus, Arch of the Sergii, Twin Gate and Small Roman Theatre provide a much broader picture of ancient Pula.

Our Recommendation

Don’t visit Pula just for the Arena. Give yourself at least a few hours to continue into the Old Town, walk through the Roman gates, climb towards Kaštel and finish around Forum and Sergijevaca Street.

The distances are short, most of the historic centre can be explored for free, and walking between the landmarks is an important part of understanding how ancient Pula developed into the city you see today.

Still deciding whether Pula should be part of your Croatia or Istria itinerary? Read our complete guide to the city, including the advantages, drawbacks, beaches, recommended length of stay and who Pula is best suited for.

Is Pula Worth Visiting? →

Frequently Asked Questions About Pula Old Town

Is Pula Old Town worth visiting?

Yes. Pula Old Town is worth visiting for its exceptional concentration of Roman landmarks, historic streets, squares and later architecture. Highlights include Forum Square, the Temple of Augustus, Arch of the Sergii, Twin Gate, Kaštel Fortress and the Small Roman Theatre, all within a compact historic centre that is easy to explore on foot.

How long do you need in Pula Old Town?

Most visitors should allow around 2–4 hours to explore Pula Old Town. This is enough time to walk between the main landmarks, visit Forum and climb towards Kaštel without rushing. Allow half a day if you also want to enter museums, Zerostrasse or several ticketed attractions.

Can you walk around Pula Old Town?

Yes. Walking is the best way to explore Pula Old Town. The main Roman monuments, historic streets, Forum, Kaštel and other attractions are relatively close together, although the streets leading towards Kaštel include some uphill sections.

Is Pula Old Town free to visit?

Yes. There is no entrance fee to walk around Pula Old Town, and many landmarks can be seen from public streets and squares for free. Individual attractions, museums and monument interiors may charge admission.

What are the best things to see in Pula Old Town?

The main sights in Pula Old Town include Forum Square, the Temple of Augustus, Arch of the Sergii, Sergijevaca Street, Twin Gate, Kaštel Fortress, the Small Roman Theatre, Church and Monastery of St. Francis and Pula Cathedral. The Pula Arena is just outside the historic core and is an ideal starting point for an Old Town walk.

Is the Pula Arena in the Old Town?

The Pula Arena stands just outside the main historic core but is only a short walk from Pula Old Town. Because of its location, the Arena is one of the best places to start a walking route through the historic centre.

What is the best time to visit Pula Old Town?

Morning and late afternoon are generally the best times to explore Pula Old Town. In summer, visiting earlier in the day helps you avoid the strongest heat, while late afternoon and evening are ideal for enjoying Forum, Sergijevaca Street and the atmosphere of the historic centre.

Is Pula Old Town suitable for children?

Yes. Pula Old Town is compact and many of its most interesting sights are outdoors, making it easy to explore with children. Families with younger children should allow extra time for breaks and be prepared for stone paving, slopes and some steps around the upper Old Town and Kaštel.

Where should I park for Pula Old Town?

The easiest option is to park near the edge of the city centre and explore Pula Old Town on foot. Parking near the Arena is convenient if you want to follow the complete Old Town walking route, while other central parking areas provide easier access to Forum, Giardini and the Arch of the Sergii.

Can you visit Pula Old Town and the Arena in one day?

Yes. The Pula Arena and Old Town can easily be combined in one day and are close enough to explore on foot. For most visitors, starting at the Arena and continuing through Twin Gate, Kaštel, Forum, Sergijevaca Street and the Arch of the Sergii creates a natural sightseeing route through historic Pula.

About This Guide

This guide was prepared by VisitPula, a local travel guide dedicated to helping visitors discover Pula and the surrounding area. It combines local knowledge with information from official and publicly available sources to provide practical, up-to-date guidance for exploring Pula Old Town.

We regularly review our guides, but opening hours, admission prices, access conditions and other visitor information can change throughout the year. Always check current information for individual attractions before your visit.

Last updated: August 2026