Apartments and holiday homes in Pula
Istria's largest city, with a Roman amphitheatre in the middle of town and a coastline of pine-shaded peninsulas, rocky coves and pebble bays just a few minutes from the centre.
Search stays in PulaPula is a real working city rather than a resort, and that is much of its appeal. The Roman arena, one of the best-preserved amphitheatres anywhere with all four sides still standing, rises above the harbour, and the old centre has a Roman temple, triumphal arch, market hall and cafés that stay busy all year. You get sightseeing, shops and restaurants on the doorstep, with beaches a short bus ride or drive away.
The swimming is on the southern peninsulas. Verudela and Stoja have pine woods, rocky ledges and small bays, popular with families by day and with younger crowds in the evening. Further south-east, Banjole is quieter, with low rocks, natural platforms and sheltered little bays, and a more village-like pace. Lungomare, the coastal promenade closer to town, has pine-shaded rocky swimming spots, and Štinjan to the north has a long pebble beach at Hidrobaza. Water shoes help almost everywhere.
Our stays in Pula are a mix of city apartments and homes in the residential areas towards the coast. If beaches come first, look around Verudela, Stoja or Banjole; if you want the arena, markets and nightlife on foot, stay closer to the centre and drive or take the bus to swim. The city is also a practical base for trips to Medulin, Fažana and Brijuni.
Beaches
Ambrela, Verudela
At the entrance to the Verudela peninsula, a pebble beach with an easy entry, clear water and full summer facilities: showers, changing cabins, lifeguards, loungers and bars. One of the best-equipped beaches around Pula and a safe choice with children.
Hawaii and the Verudela coves
Despite its name, Hawaii is a pebble and rock cove with turquoise water and good spots for jumping in. The wider Verudela area has several small beaches close together, so you can move around until you find a quiet ledge.
Valkane and Stoja
Valkane, between the city and Verudela, has paved sunbathing areas and a ramp into the sea for swimmers with limited mobility. Stoja, on the western side, is all rugged cliffs, rock formations and narrow inlets, better for confident swimmers, snorkelling and kayaking.
Getting there and around
Pula airport is only a short drive from the city, and most stays are within about 15 minutes of it, which makes Pula ideal for short breaks and late flights. The Istrian Y motorway starts here and runs north to Rovinj, Poreč and Umag, and towards Rijeka through the Učka tunnel. In summer, passenger catamarans link Pula with Venice. Parking in the centre is limited and paid, so a stay with its own space is worth having.
Stays in Pula right now
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Tips before you book
- Most beaches are pebble, rock or paved; water shoes are useful.
- Dogs are welcome on designated beaches, including the one by the Verudela lighthouse and at Hidrobaza in Štinjan.
- Pula stays lively outside the summer season, so it works well in spring and autumn too.
- The arena hosts concerts and events in summer, so check what is on when you book.
Frequently asked questions
Does Pula have sandy beaches?
No, Pula's beaches are pebble, rock and paved platforms, with very clear water. For sand, drive about 20 minutes to Bijeca beach in Medulin, the best-known sandy beach in Istria. Around Pula itself, Ambrela and Gortanova Bay have the easiest pebble entries into the sea.
Where is the best area to stay in Pula?
For beaches, Verudela and Stoja put you within walking distance of the sea and pine woods. For sightseeing and restaurants, choose the centre near the arena. Banjole, on the edge of the Pula riviera, is the quietest option, with rocky coves and a village atmosphere, and it suits couples and families with a car.
Is Pula good for families?
Yes. Equipped beaches such as Ambrela have lifeguards and gentle entries, the Verudela area has plenty of shade, and the city offers rainy-day options including the arena and the aquarium at Verudela. Staying near the coast rather than the centre usually means easier parking and shorter walks to the beach.