Tips on Avoiding Pula Tourist Traps

Pula Tourist Traps

Here’s some advice on things to visit and avoid while visiting Pula.

Seafood in Restaurants

There’s not always fresh seafood available at the restaurants, but they’re not going to tell you if the seafood is off. When being offered the catch of the day then make sure to get a look at the fish. If its eyes are cloudy then it’s old and if it’s gills are not pink it’s been frozen.

Pula Arena

This is one of the better preserved Roman Arenas and is a summer venue for film festivals, operas, the equestrian festival and other concerts. Be aware that it can be very crowded during the tourist season. There are steep steps and hot days, but if you brave the crowds and climbs there are beautiful views and interesting historical markers to see.

Pula Arena – The Cellars

Under the Pula Arena are underground passages that were once used by the gladiators. In modern times the cellars serve as an exhibition of viticulture and olive growing in ancient Istria. You can peruse an interesting display of Roman artifacts and maps or marvel over reconstructions of machines that were once used to make olive oil, wine and amphorae. As interesting the cellars are they seem to be a fairly unknown little gem.

The Forum

This is a true tourist trap with lots of people and vendors trying to make a sale. That being said, it’s worth a visit to see the magnificent buildings. There’s the Pula City Hall (aka Cummunal Palace) and the Temple of Romae and Augustus. The pedestrian only area is lined with cafés and restaurants.

Brijuni Island Tour

This is an escorted day tour, which leaves little flexibility to do any exploring. There’s not much time to linger at the stops, one of which are old Roman ruins.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Pula tourist traps.