This Stunning Roman Arena is One of the World's Best Preserved (& It's Not in Italy)

Home to the only remaining Roman amphitheatre with four side towers entirely preserved, this unassuming seaside town is a history buff’s dream.

Jutting out into the North Adriatic Sea, the scenic Istrian peninsula is shared by three countries: Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy.

On the peninsula’s southern end, you’ll find some of Croatia’s most beautiful coastline…and a spectacular Roman amphitheater that will make you wonder if you’ve stumbled back across the Italian border.

On our last visit to Croatia, my husband and I began a 7-day road trip along the Dalmatian Coast with a stay in the Istrian seaside town of Rovinj.

It was a brilliant start to our Croatian holiday and before moving on to our next destination, Plitvice Lakes, I couldn’t resist the 45-minute detour down the coast to the nearby town of Pula.

This mostly industrial port town is best known for what seems an unexpected Croatian attraction, the world’s sixth-largest Roman amphitheater.

Inside the Pula Croatia arena — Inside the arena

The Pula Arena

Built between 27 BC – 68 AD, Pula’s majestic amphitheater (known as the Pula Arena) was originally constructed for gladiatorial combat.

With the capacity to accommodate more than 20,000 spectators, it provided a venue for entertainment as well as showcasing Roman might and hosting knight tournaments.

Cafe tables outside the walls of the Pula arena — Cafe outside the arena

Often compared to the Colosseum in Rome, Pula’s amphitheater is one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas.

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But what makes it unique is that its outer walls remain almost entirely intact.

A bit like a mini-Colosseum, the imposing structure feels almost absurdly out of place in the small port town. When we arrive, we’re able to drive right up next to it and park (don’t try that in Rome!).

Unlike the Colosseum, which sits amidst Rome’s bustling metropolis, the Pula Arena overlooks the lovely Adriatic Sea. It’s also surrounded by a few charming cafes where you can sit in the sunshine and enjoy the Roman views.

Today, the Pula Arena is considered one of the most remarkably preserved Roman Arenas in the world.

And amazingly, it’s still in use. Of course, these days, it’s more likely to be hosting film festivals, concerts, and even the occasional gladiator reenactment.

During the summer months, the Arena is open to visitors from 8:00am to 10:00pm. Tickets are 10 Euro and can be purchased at the entrance.

Unlike the Pula Amphitheater’s famous Italian cousin, there’s no need to book tickets in advance or book a tour.

Roman Amphitheatre Pula Croatia — Roman Amphitheatre, Pula

We found Pula to be a very worthwhile detour on our way to Plitvice Lakes. If you’re visiting this part of Croatia, be sure to add it to your itinerary.

Here are a few quick visitor facts:

How to Get to Pula

Pula is well-connected by air, road, and sea:

By Air: Pula Airport (PUY) offers seasonal flights from major European cities. Year-round connections are available via Zagreb.
By Road: Pula is accessible via Croatia’s well-maintained highways. Buses connect Pula to major Croatian cities such as Zagreb, Rijeka, and Split.
By Sea: Ferries link Pula to Venice, Italy, and other Adriatic coastal towns.

Boats in the Pula Croatia harbor on a sunny day — Sea views in Pula

If you’re staying in nearby Rovinj, as we were, it’s an easy 40-minute drive (BTW, don’t miss the lovely town of Rovinj if you’re in the area!).

Where to Stay in Pula

Pula is most often visited as a day trip from Rovinj or Rijeka, but if you decide to spend a few days, the town has plenty of options.

The luxurious Grand Hotel Brioni Pula is a seaside resort just two miles from the center of town. Closer to town, the adults only Monvidal by Bura Hotels is a chic choice for couples.

Add Pula to your Croatia itinerary!

You’ll be glad you did. It’s not every day you can see such a well-preserved ancient historic site that isn’t mobbed by tour groups.

And now we’re on to our next stops, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split, Korcula, and finally Dubrovnik.