How to get from
Venice to Pula

Venice to Pula

Once you’ve had your fill of gelato and Venetian art, Pula is the perfect city to explore next. 

Between 1918-1947, the city belonged to Italy, so you’ll hear many older generations speaking Italian!

After WWII, Pula became part of former Yugoslavia. And so it remained until 1991, when it joined the Republic of Croatia. 

All this identity switching is what gives Pula, and the Istria region, such a distinct personality.

Most of the exciting landmarks lie within the historic Old Town, where you’ll find the Roman Ruins. 

The number one thing to see in Pula is the Amphitheater. It was built way back in the first century and used for actual gladiator battles. Yes – like the ones in Rome! 

You won’t be seeing Russell Crowe take on a lion in the Amphitheater today, but the ruins are surprisingly well intact. 

Another must-see is the Ancient Roman Hidden Mosaic. This “secret” tourist spot is an absolutely stunning piece of art. This stone floor tells the Greek legend of Dirce, and historians believe it’s over 2,000 years old. 

If history and architecture aren’t your things, Istrian wine may be. Even though it doesn’t have the reputation of Italian or French wine, it’s just as good. 

Getting outside and enjoying the beautiful surroundings is another way to make the most of your time in Pula. Kamenjak Nature Park is known for its beautiful landscapes and activities to keep you entertained.

The park is at the southernmost point of Istria near Prematura. Still, it’s only 8 km (about 5 miles) from Pula’s city center. Entry is a mere €3.50, and excluding food and drinks, that’s all you’ll need to pay for.

There are bars with hammocks, lovely viewpoints, and great places for a swim. The best part of all – it’s still relatively unknown to tourists.

 

About the Ride

The ferry from Venice to Pula is a great way to travel. It’s only 135 km (~84 miles) across the Adriatic Sea. However, if longer stints at sea aren’t for you, there are other ways to travel.

You can also fly, take a bus, or a shuttle. 

Unfortunately, there is no train from Venice to Pula. 

Pro tip: you will be leaving a Schengen country in the EU (Italy) and entering a Non-Schengen country (Croatia). 

If you choose to travel via bus, you will go through Slovenia – also a Schengen country. 

This is important for visa purposes and when planning how long you’re allowed to stay within the region. It is always a good idea to double-check visa requirements with your government’s website before you travel. 

Also, even though both Italy and Croatia are in the European Union, only Italy uses the Euro as their form of currency. Croatia still uses the Crotaitan Kuna. You can draw money at any ATM or easily exchange your Euros.

 

How to Get from Venice to Pula

When considering how to get from Venice to Pula, you should find the best fit with your travel budget and schedule. While the Venice to Pula train isn’t an option, there are plenty of other ways to get to Pula safely. 

Ferry

For a ferry from Venice to Pula, there are two companies to choose from: Venezia Lines and Kompas Ferries. Both options have comparable amenities and take about 3.5 hours. 

It’s essential to note ferries only operate between June-September. If you are traveling at other times, plan to use different modes of transportation. Double-check the Venice to Pula ferry schedule as well to make sure your boat is going. 

It is also worth noting that the season in Pula runs from April-October. Outside these months, most hotels, restaurants, and shops will be closed. 

The Kompas ferry has AC and restrooms, a bar on board, and ample luggage allowance. In addition, passengers can bring pets and bicycles for an extra €5. Tickets cost €68 per person.

Kompas allows passengers to cancel or change their tickets for free up to 24 hours before departure. It’s an excellent feature for people whose travel plans are constantly changing. 

Venezia Ferry Lines offers the same amenities as Kompas, plus the option to upgrade to VIP class. Regular tickets on Venezia cost €68. VIP Class on the Venice to Pula ferry costs an additional €15 and has some great upgrades. 

The VIP cabin is located on the upper deck of the ship. You’ll have access to an inside lounge and an outside deck. General economy tickets cannot access this outdoor viewing deck and are not permitted to sit outside at all. 

When you are pulling out of the dock in Venice, and when you approach Pula, you’ll be required to stay inside. Don’t fret though, the inside cabin has extremely plush and comfortable seats.

When you can’t sit outside, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and Pula as you approach the port. These floor-to-ceiling windows are only available in the VIP cabin. 

Only 30 seats are available, and these VIP members have access to priority disembarkation and extra luggage allowance. 

The Venice to Pula ferry prices may seem high, but you get great amenities for the price, and it’s the most direct way to travel. 

Bus

Another option is the Venice to Pula bus. Flix bus operates this route several times per week, with departures at 5:45 am, and 11:15 am.

The bus travels through Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia, with several stops along the way. You can pick up the bus at San Marco Airport in Venice and will arrive in central Pula.

This is a decent option, as the bus only costs $25 per person. It does take 6 hours and 45 minutes, but it will make a few bathroom and snack stops along the way.

Shuttle

If you’re traveling with a large group or prefer a private transfer, a shuttle may be the option for you.

Shuttles depart from San Marco Airport in Venice and take about three hours and thirty minutes. They will drop passengers off at the Pula Railway Station. This is a bit out of the way, so you’ll have to make your way into town once you arrive.

GoOpti operates these shuttles and has two options: shared or private. A shared shuttle costs $50 per person. This is essentially like renting a seat in a minivan.

If you opt for the private shuttle, you’ll book the entire minivan for yourself. This can cost anywhere from $270-450 depending on the time of year, how much luggage you have, and the type of car you request. 

Flight

A Venice to Pula flight is possible. However, there are no direct routes. Tickets can cost anywhere between $250-$300 one way and often have at least two layovers. 

If you book a ticket all the way to Pula, you usually have layovers in Frankfurt and Zagreb, and flights can take upwards of 25 hours.

It’s possible to book separate one-way tickets from Venice to Frankfurt and then Frankfurt to Pula. Be sure to travel with only hand luggage or have plenty of time to re-check in. 

So, while flying is possible, it’s quite the hassle. 

However you decide to get to Pula, make the most of it, and enjoy Istria while it’s still relatively unknown!