Pula, a charming town on the Istrian Peninsula, is known for its well-preserved Roman architecture, stunning coastline, and vibrant cultural scene. When evaluating whether Pula is an expensive town to visit or live in, it’s important to consider the cost of living and prices of goods and services compared to other Croatian cities and European destinations. Here is a breakdown of the prices you can expect in Pula in 2024.
Accommodation costs
When we talk about accommodation, mid-range hotels in Pula typically cost between 60€ and 150€ per night, depending on the location, season, and amenities. Luxury hotels can go upwards of 200€ to 300€ per night during peak tourist season which is during July and August.
If you prefer staying in apartments, rentals like Airbnb range from 50€ to 120€ per night, depending on the property’s location and quality. For those seeking a luxurious stay, Villsy offers high-end villas in Pula with private pools and stunning views, with prices starting from 200€ per night.
If you’re considering moving to Pula, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost between 400€ and 700€ per month. Outside the center, prices drop to around 300€ to 500€ per month.
Food and eating out
Pula has a lot to offer when it comes to places where you can eat and can be relatively affordable. If you opt for local restaurants and traditional cuisine a meal might cost you around 10€ at an inexpensive restaurant, while in a more expensive one in the town center, this price can go up to 30€.
A cup of coffee at a café typically costs around 1.50€ to 2€, which is quite affordable by European standards.
Basic grocery items like milk, bread, eggs, and chicken breasts, are reasonably priced compared to other European cities.
Transportation
Public transportation in Pula is quite affordable, with a one-way bus ticket costing around 0.90€ if you want to ride in one zone, 1.50€ for two zones, and 2.30€ for three zones. There is also a monthly pass available for 38€, 67€, or 92€, again depending on the number of zones. If you prefer taxis, fares typically start at €3-€4, with an additional charge of about €1 per kilometer. For those who want the flexibility of driving, car rentals in Pula range from 25€ to 50€ per day, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental duration.
Entertainment and Leisure
Pula offers a range of attractions, with entry fees to historical sites like the Pula Arena costing 10€ for adults, while museums and other cultural spots may have entrance fees between 3€ to 7€, for example, if you’re into art and want to visit Museum of Contemporary Art of Istria, it will cost you 5.31€.
The town’s beaches are mostly public and free to access, but if you want to get more comfortable renting sun loungers and umbrellas will typically set you back about 5€ to 10€ per day, depending on which beach you go.
For nightlife enthusiasts, Pula offers a lively yet affordable scene, with a pint of beer costing around 3€ and cocktails starting at 7€ at bars and clubs. The town’s nightlife is diverse, catering to both those who prefer laid-back beach bars and those seeking more vibrant venues with live music or DJ performances.
Pula offers a balanced mix of affordability and quality, especially compared to more expensive European destinations. While prices can rise during the tourist season, particularly for accommodation, the town remains a good value for those seeking a coastal Mediterranean experience without the high costs associated with more famous cities like Dubrovnik.