Culture & History

From here to antiquity

amphitheatre Pula •amphitheatre Pula •

3,000 YEARS OF HISTORY TO EXPLORE, FROM THE ROMANS TO THE VENETIANS, THE AUSTRIAN EMPIRE, AND MORE.

As the world's sole remaining Roman amphitheatre with all four side towers intact, Pula Arena is a once-in-a-lifetime sight. And that's only the beginning.

Steps away from natural splendour

TRAVEL BACK TO ANCIENT TIMES AT BRIJUNI ARCHIPELAGO AND NEARBY ARCHAEOLOGICAL LANDMARKS.

Discover a never-ending selection of breathtaking views and architecture, from magnificent Roman structures and Byzantine chapels to Venetian townhouses, ornate Habsburg era villas and a bustling covered market.

A TRANQUIL ESCAPE FAVOURED BY PATRICIANS OF THE PAST, WITH THE AMENITIES AND TECHNOLOGY OF THE FUTURE.

Picture a day spent uncovering centuries-old secrets in hilltop medieval towns, followed by an evening of prestige dining at your choice of seaside restaurants, then treatments in a top-of-the-line spa. At Grand Hotel Brioni, guests are treated to the best of both worlds.

Find modern art with a historical influence on display throughout the hotel, a unifying element that nods to the essence of Pula and the Grand Hotel Brioni experience.

THE PERFECT BALANCE OF EUROPEAN TRADITION AND COSMOPOLITAN CULTURE

Great shopping, a contemporary art museum and farm-to-table oštarijas are a few of the many attributes marking Pula as a premier destination for travellers. Delve into the heritage that has shaped this progressive city and parktake in the pastimes moving it forward.

WHERE MEMORIES ARE MADE

SEE FOR YOURSELF WHY THE ROMANS CALLED ISTRIA ‘TERRA MAGICA’.

From the dramatic Adriatic coastline to the tranquil rural towns, this vibrant and distinct region is the ideal spot for your summer getaway. Whether you love exploring the outdoors, sightseeing, wildlife or gastronomy, Istria's heart-shaped peninsula offers something for everyone.

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Cape Kamenjak

Located on the Premantura Peninsula on the very southernmost tip of Istria, Cape Kemanjak has many secluded beaches and bays for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. It’s also a sanctuary for wildlife, with a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

Cape Kamenjak

Brijuni National park

Brijuni Archipelago is an area of outstanding natural beauty and fascinating history, filled with ancient ruins, including remains of Roman villas, as well as a safari park, dinosaur footprints and more.

Brijuni National park

Pula aquarium

Housed in a 130-year-old military fortress, Pula Aquarium offers a unique visitor experience. As well as showcasing the beauty and diversity of the underwater world, it has a mission to highlight conservation issues and includes a marine turtle rescue centre.

Pula aquarium

Pula market

Pula’s distinctive covered market was constructed out of wrought iron and glass in 1903, with outdoor stalls shaded by rows of chestnut trees. Traders offer a cornucopia of local produce, including fresh meat, fish, fruit and vegetables, as well as honeys, wines and oils.

Pula market

Wine tasting

Several local wineries are open to the public for tours and tasting, including Vina Benazić, where three generations of family members participate in the growing and production, and Medea Winery, a young, up-and-coming winery located in the small town of Vodnjan.

Wine tasting

Truffle hunting

The dense oak forests of Istria are the perfect environment for truffles to thrive. Whether it’s the ‘black diamond’ or the more aromatic white variety, these are irresistible delicacies that add mouth-watering flavor to everything they touch. Find them on the menu at Brioni Forum Restaurant.

Truffle hunting

Historical and maritime museum of Istria

Located in a Baroque Venetian hilltop fortress, this fascinating museum features 18 collections, comprising over 100,000 items of cultural, historical, political, military and ethnographic importance.