Pula is a captivating stop on Croatia’s Istria coast, famous for its remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins, lively markets, and charming streets. What makes Pula stand out for city tours is its blend of ancient architecture and modern Croatian life. We particularly love tours that combine walking history with scenic views, such as the Pula: Historic Walking Tour with Local Guide & City Views, which offers an intimate look at the city’s layered past. If you’re looking for a fun way to cover more ground, the Pula E-Bike Tour: From Verudela to Pula City Center lets you glide past key sights with ease. For a more nostalgic experience, the Pula: City Highlights Tour in a Vintage Renault 4 adds a charming vintage touch to your exploration.
Our list below covers three distinct types of city tours: a walking tour with a local guide, an adventurous e-bike ride, and a vintage car tour—all providing different ways to see Pula’s highlights while capturing its unique spirit.
1. Pula: Historic Walking Tour with Local Guide & City Views
At number one, this 1.5-hour walking tour offers an immersive experience with a local guide, perfect for travelers eager to learn about Pula’s layered past. The tour includes a visit inside the Pula Arena, where you’ll get an up-close look at one of Croatia’s most iconic Roman amphitheaters, still standing tall since between 27 BC and AD 68. The guide shares fun, lesser-known facts that bring the history alive, avoiding dry dates for engaging stories. You’ll stroll through centuries-old streets that have seen multiple cultures, from Romans to Venetians, each leaving their mark.
The tour also takes you through the bustling farmer’s market, a colorful slice of everyday Croatian life, and offers views from outside Pula Castle, where the panoramic scenery makes for perfect photo opportunities. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace, want to learn a bit about the city’s history, and enjoy light walking. Reviewers give it a high rating of 4.8/5 based on over 200 reviews, praising its approachable guides and interesting facts. This tour balances historical insight with a lively, authentic Pula experience. For a compact but enriching introduction to the city, this tour is hard to beat.
Bottom Line: Best for history lovers and first-time visitors who want a friendly, informative walk through Pula’s past.
2. Pula E-Bike Tour: From Verudela to Pula City Center
Number two on our list is the Pula E-Bike Tour, a scenic 2.5-hour ride that covers a lot of ground with minimal effort. This guided tour is perfect for active travelers who want to see the city’s key sights without tiring out their legs. The tour starts in Verudela, a charming seaside area, and takes you through Pula’s most iconic landmarks, including the Roman amphitheater, the Kastel Fortress with breathtaking views, and the Arch of the Sergii, a striking Roman triumphal arch.
The e-bike allows you to cover more terrain comfortably—half the roads are paved, making the ride manageable for most fitness levels, and the guide offers insightful commentary along the way. Reviewers highlight the quality of the e-bikes and the personable guide, with one calling it a “great experience” and noting that it’s suitable even for those without prior cycling experience. The included visit to Kastel provides a stunning vista over the city. For just under $80, this tour offers excellent value for travelers who want a comprehensive, fast-paced overview of Pula’s highlights from a unique vantage point.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers keen on a fast, comprehensive tour with scenic stops and a breeze to do.
3. Pula: City Highlights Tour in a Vintage Renault 4
Number three offers a playful, nostalgic way to explore Pula—inside a vintage Renault 4. This 1.5-hour scenic drive combines sightseeing with a touch of old-school charm. Starting from Pula, the tour takes you past the Pula Amphitheater, Kaštel Fortress, and the Uljanik Shipyard, a major part of Pula’s identity. The guide points out fascinating facts as you pass by the Naval Cemetery, a tranquil Austro-Hungarian site, and cruise along the lively Lungo Mare, a favorite promenade.
The highlight is the relaxed, scenic drive that allows you to absorb Pula’s highlights without walking—perfect for those who prefer not to spend hours on their feet or who want a different perspective of the city. The vintage car’s quirky appeal is complemented by insightful narration about Pula’s history and modern industries. While reviews are limited, the unique charm of riding in a classic Renault adds a special flavor to your sightseeing. For those who love retro style and want a relaxed, fun tour, this offers a delightful alternative to traditional walking or biking tours.
Bottom Line: Ideal for vintage lovers, families, or travelers seeking a relaxed, stylish way to see Pula.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If you’re eager to learn about Pula’s history in depth, the Historic Walking Tour provides engaging storytelling and authentic experiences. For an active, efficient overview, the E-bike Tour lets you see many sights comfortably and quickly. Finally, if you’re after a fun, relaxed way to enjoy the city with a nostalgic twist, the Vintage Renault 4 Tour offers charm and comfort.
Think about your budget—while the walking tour is the most affordable at $30, the e-bike and vintage car tours are around $78 and $83 respectively—and match it with your interests. Book early, especially in peak months, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer a detailed walk, an energetic bike ride, or a leisurely vintage drive, Pula offers excellent ways to see its sights with local guides or charming vehicles. For history buffs and first-timers, the walking tour provides an authentic, intimate experience. If you’re looking to cover more ground and enjoy scenic views effortlessly, the e-bike tour is a great choice. For a touch of nostalgia and relaxed sightseeing, the vintage Renault 4 offers a memorable adventure.
Each option has its own unique appeal, so pick the one that best matches your travel style. Remember, booking in advance helps ensure you don’t miss out on your preferred experience. Pula’s rich Roman heritage and lively streets are waiting—time to start exploring.
Enjoy your trip to Pula, and don’t forget to book early for the best experience!