Port information & tips for Pula
Pula is the historic jewel at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, delighting cruise passengers with a fascinating blend of Roman antiquity and Mediterranean charm. The city impresses with its picturesque location on the deep blue Adriatic and offers an impressive backdrop full of cultural treasures thanks to its thousands of years of history. Absolute highlights in the immediate vicinity include the world-famous Roman Amphitheatre, the majestic Temple of Augustus, and the ancient Arch of the Sergii. Cruise ships dock at the central Riječki gat, from where the historic old town and its sights are easily accessible within a few minutes' walk, allowing for a relaxed yet eventful stay in the heart of this Croatian pearl.
Pula, located at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, welcomes cruise guests in a central port that is easily accessible from the DACH region thanks to its excellent connections to the road, rail, and air networks. The main terminal is situated right on the edge of the historic center, with the famous Pula Arena within easy walking distance. Smaller ships can dock directly at the pier, while larger ships may anchor offshore, with passengers brought to the port by tender boats.
Car
Arrival by car is convenient via the Croatian A9 motorway, which is part of the "Istrian Y" and connects Pula directly to the Slovenian border. Coming from Germany and Austria, you usually drive via Slovenia (E61/A11, then A1 and E751/A9) or alternatively via Italy to avoid the Slovenian vignette. Various parking options are available in Pula: The ACI Marina Pula at Riva 1 offers secure private parking for yachts and guests. In addition, there are monitored short-term and long-term parking lots near the city center and the Arena, some of which are only about an 8-minute walk from the port. Private parking providers and garages near the port often offer attractive weekly flat rates and sometimes shuttle services to the ship.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Pula Airport (PUY), which is only about 7 to 11.5 kilometers from the cruise port. Direct flights from some DACH cities are available seasonally; otherwise, connecting flights are possible. From Pula Airport, you can easily reach the Pula main bus station by shuttle bus (approx. 20-30 minutes travel time, cost approx. 6 euros), from where taxis or local buses continue to the port area. For a direct and comfortable journey, taxis are available in front of the terminal, with fares starting at around 10 to 25 euros to the city center or the port. In addition, numerous private transfer services and cruise line shuttles offer a door-to-door service that takes you to the terminal in about 15 to 40 minutes. Given the journey from the DACH region, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel in Pula the day before embarkation is recommended to start your cruise relaxed.
Train
Pula railway station is centrally located on the waterfront promenade and is only a few minutes' walk from the Pula Arena and the city center. Thanks to this convenient location, the cruise port is easy to reach from the station. With little luggage, the way to the terminal is often feasible on foot, as the main sights and the port area are within a 15-minute walk. For a quick and uncomplicated transfer, taxis are available directly at the station to take you to the embarkation area in a short time. Pula is integrated into the Croatian rail network, but offers less comfortable connections compared to bus travel for longer distances.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Pula, located at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, welcomes cruise guests in a central port that is easily accessible from the DACH region thanks to its excellent connections to the road, rail, and air networks. The main terminal is situated right on the edge of the historic center, with the famous Pula Arena within easy walking distance. Smaller ships can dock directly at the pier, while larger ships may anchor offshore, with passengers brought to the port by tender boats.
Car
Arrival by car is convenient via the Croatian A9 motorway, which is part of the "Istrian Y" and connects Pula directly to the Slovenian border. Coming from Germany and Austria, you usually drive via Slovenia (E61/A11, then A1 and E751/A9) or alternatively via Italy to avoid the Slovenian vignette. Various parking options are available in Pula: The ACI Marina Pula at Riva 1 offers secure private parking for yachts and guests. In addition, there are monitored short-term and long-term parking lots near the city center and the Arena, some of which are only about an 8-minute walk from the port. Private parking providers and garages near the port often offer attractive weekly flat rates and sometimes shuttle services to the ship.
Airplane
The nearest airport is Pula Airport (PUY), which is only about 7 to 11.5 kilometers from the cruise port. Direct flights from some DACH cities are available seasonally; otherwise, connecting flights are possible. From Pula Airport, you can easily reach the Pula main bus station by shuttle bus (approx. 20-30 minutes travel time, cost approx. 6 euros), from where taxis or local buses continue to the port area. For a direct and comfortable journey, taxis are available in front of the terminal, with fares starting at around 10 to 25 euros to the city center or the port. In addition, numerous private transfer services and cruise line shuttles offer a door-to-door service that takes you to the terminal in about 15 to 40 minutes. Given the journey from the DACH region, an overnight stay in a pre-cruise hotel in Pula the day before embarkation is recommended to start your cruise relaxed.
Train
Pula railway station is centrally located on the waterfront promenade and is only a few minutes' walk from the Pula Arena and the city center. Thanks to this convenient location, the cruise port is easy to reach from the station. With little luggage, the way to the terminal is often feasible on foot, as the main sights and the port area are within a 15-minute walk. For a quick and uncomplicated transfer, taxis are available directly at the station to take you to the embarkation area in a short time. Pula is integrated into the Croatian rail network, but offers less comfortable connections compared to bus travel for longer distances.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and take into account that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the voyage: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always observe the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The Port of Pula impresses with its excellent location directly at the historic city center and allows travelers an uncomplicated start to their shore excursion. Thanks to the central docking point, you can reach the most important sights comfortably and without long transfer times.
On Foot
The famous Pula Arena and the ancient old town are within direct sight and can be reached in about 5 to 10 minutes on foot. The path is pleasantly flat along the waterfront promenade and offers you initial impressive photo opportunities immediately after leaving the ship.
Pulapromet Buses
The striking yellow buses of the local transport company Pulapromet stop near the port and connect the center with the popular bathing bays of Verudela. Thanks to the frequent service and easy handling, this is an ideal option for flexibly exploring the peninsula and surrounding beaches.
Taxi
Official taxis are available directly at the port exit and at the nearby bus station, offering quick service to individual destinations. Travel times within the city are pleasantly short, and thanks to the clear fare structure, you can enjoy comfortable transportation to any desired point in the region.
To make the most of your limited time in Pula, we recommend focusing on the impressive historical center in the immediate vicinity of the port, as well as a detour to the idyllic coastal sections of the surrounding area.
The Pula Arena
This majestic structure is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world and, thanks to its proximity to the port, is perfectly situated for an impressive start to your shore excursion. Visitors can immerse themselves in ancient history while enjoying a wonderful view of the glittering sea and the ships sailing in and out from the upper tiers.
The Historic Old Town and the Forum
The vibrant center around the ancient Temple of Augustus invites you to linger with its charming cobblestone streets and offers the ideal atmosphere for an authentic break thanks to numerous cafes. In addition, significant monuments such as the Arch of the Sergii can be easily explored during a relaxed stroll through the pedestrian zone.
The Verudela Peninsula
This coastal district impresses with its crystal-clear bays and well-kept pebble beaches and, thanks to the short travel time from the city center, is a perfect destination for relaxing hours by the Adriatic Sea. The peninsula also offers a picturesque promenade and first-class viewpoints that are ideal for a relaxed end to your day trip.
The Pula Arena
The magnificent Pula Arena is located just a five to ten-minute walk from the cruise pier and impresses as one of the world's best-preserved monuments of Roman architecture directly by the sea. A visit is worthwhile thanks to the fascinating architecture and the underground exhibition rooms, which offer exciting insights into the ancient history of olive oil and wine production. The surrounding area also features charming cafes with direct views of the monumental arches, making the site perfect for a relaxed break. Ideally, visit the structure directly after the ship's arrival in the early morning to enjoy the special atmosphere before the day tourists arrive, and then return to the ship with a relaxed stroll through the adjacent old town.
The way back to the cruise terminal in Pula is extremely easy and comfortable thanks to its excellent location directly by the historic city center. You can reach your ship within a few minutes and enjoy your remaining time in the city in a relaxed manner.
On Foot
From the impressive Amphitheater or the central Forum square, you can enjoy a comfortable 5 to 10-minute walk back to the pier along the waterfront. The paths are flat, and thanks to the distinctive silhouette of the Arena and the clearly visible cranes of the Uljanik shipyard, orientation is effortless at any time.
Taxi
Central taxi ranks can be found directly at the busy Giardini square, as well as in the immediate vicinity of the main entrance to the Arena and at the bus station. The journey to the port is short, and thanks to the well-marked stands, you will quickly find an available vehicle for a comfortable return to the ship terminal.
Local Buses
For guests who have spent the day at the beaches of Verudela, bus line 2 offers a direct and easy connection back to the city center. From the stop at Giardini or the central bus station, it is only a short walk to the berth, and you will reach the ship on time and at a very reasonable price.
