7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Pula

Pula, is a stunning coastal city known for its Roman ruins, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultural scene. Digital nomads living in Pula have the unique opportunity to blend work with the pleasures of Mediterranean life. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, the weekends are perfect for getaways to nearby destinations. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaways from Pula, including three off-the-beaten-path destinations that promise an unforgettable experience.

Rovinj

Just a short drive from Pula, Rovinj is a picturesque fishing port on the west coast of the Istrian Peninsula. Its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and stunning harbor make it a photographer's dream. Visitors can explore the charming Old Town, climb the bell tower of St. Euphemia's Church for panoramic views, or relax at one of the pebbly beaches. Rovinj is also known for its vibrant art scene and hosts numerous galleries and art shops.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Rovinj from Pula is by car or bus, with the journey taking approximately 40 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a boat trip around the Rovinj archipelago. The 14 islands and islets offer secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a day of exploration.

Where to Stay: Hotel Adriatic offers a boutique experience with art-filled rooms and is centrally located. For a luxurious stay, consider the Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, which boasts an infinity pool with stunning sea views.

Where to Eat: Visit La Puntulina for a dining experience perched on the rocks overlooking the Adriatic Sea. They are famous for their fresh seafood dishes and local wines.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Croatia's most popular tourist attractions. The park is renowned for its cascading lakes and breathtaking waterfalls. Hiking trails and wooden walkways meander through the park, allowing visitors to get up close to the natural beauty. The vibrant colors of the lakes, which range from azure to green, grey, or blue, change constantly depending on the minerals in the water and the angle of sunlight.

How to Get There: The best way to visit Plitvice Lakes from Pula is by car, with the journey taking around 3.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, and be sure to check out the lesser-known paths for a more serene experience.

Where to Stay: Ethno Houses Plitvica Selo offers unique accommodation in traditional wooden houses, complete with modern amenities and close to the park's entrance.

Where to Eat: For a taste of local cuisine, visit Licka Kuca, which serves traditional dishes such as lamb roasted on a spit and homemade cheese.

Motovun

Motovun is a captivating medieval hilltop town in central Istria, known for its truffles, wines, and stunning views of the Mirna River valley. The town's ancient walls and narrow streets exude a sense of history and tranquility. Visitors can enjoy truffle hunting excursions, wine tasting at local vineyards, and hot air balloon rides that offer a unique perspective of Istria's rolling hills and picturesque villages.

How to Get There: The journey to Motovun from Pula takes about an hour by car.

Travel Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the Motovun Film Festival or the annual truffle days if you're a fan of cinema or gastronomy.

Where to Stay: Hotel Kastel is located in the heart of Motovun and features a wellness center with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.

Where to Eat: Konoba Mondo offers a range of Istrian dishes with a focus on truffles, and their homemade pasta is a must-try.

Brijuni National Park

Brijuni National Park is an archipelago consisting of 14 islands known for their historical significance and natural beauty. Once the summer residence of President Tito, the islands are now a haven for visitors seeking a blend of culture and relaxation. Highlights include safari tours featuring exotic animals, archaeological sites, and the Mediterranean Garden of the Brijuni National Park.

How to Get There: The park is accessible by a short boat ride from the small town of Fažana, which is about a 20-minute drive from Pula.

Travel Tip: Rent a bicycle to explore the main island of Veli Brijun at your own pace, discovering hidden coves and scenic spots along the way.

Where to Stay: Hotel Neptun offers comfortable accommodation on the islands, with easy access to beaches and park attractions.

Where to Eat: The hotel's restaurant serves a variety of Mediterranean dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced seafood.

Grožnjan

Grožnjan is a small hilltop town in Istria, often referred to as the "town of artists." With fewer than 200 inhabitants, it's a quiet retreat that comes alive with music and art during the summer months. The town is filled with galleries, studios, and artisan shops. Grožnjan is also known for its jazz festivals and stunning views of the surrounding olive groves and vineyards.

How to Get There: Grožnjan is about an hour's drive from Pula, making it an easy destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Travel Tip: Visit during the Grožnjan Jazz Festival for an unforgettable experience of music in a magical setting.

Where to Stay: For a cozy stay, check out the rooms and apartments at the Artists' Colony, located right in the heart of the town.

Where to Eat: Kaya Energy Bar & Design offers a unique blend of healthy, organic food and local art, perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing smoothie.

Kamenjak National Park

Kamenjak National Park, located at the southern tip of Istria, is a protected nature reserve known for its rugged coastline, crystal-clear waters, and diverse plant and animal life. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and cliff diving. The park's numerous coves and beaches provide the perfect setting for a day of sunbathing or snorkeling.

How to Get There: Kamenjak is easily accessible by car from Pula, with the drive taking approximately 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Look for the dinosaur footprints on the park's rocky beaches – a thrilling find for both kids and adults.

Where to Stay: While there are no hotels within the park, nearby Pomer offers a range of accommodation options, such as the family-friendly Camping Arena Stupice.

Where to Eat: Safari Bar, set in a secluded bay, is known for its quirky decor and serves up simple, tasty dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Hum

Hum, often cited as the smallest town in the world, is a unique destination nestled in the heart of Istria. With a population of around 30, this tiny town offers a step back in time with its well-preserved medieval architecture. Visitors can explore the town's ancient streets, visit the local konoba (tavern) for some Istrian specialties, and sample the local mistletoe brandy known as biska.

How to Get There: Hum is about an hour and a half drive from Pula, making it a quaint and quiet escape from the coastal crowds.

Travel Tip: Be sure to walk the Glagolitic Alley, a series of stone monuments celebrating the Glagolitic script, which is an important part of Croatian cultural heritage.

Where to Stay: There are limited accommodation options in Hum itself, but nearby Buzet offers charming bed and breakfasts like the Boutique Hotel Vela Vrata with stunning views of the Istrian countryside.

Where to Eat: Konoba Hum serves traditional Istrian dishes in a rustic setting, and their homemade pastas and truffle dishes are particularly noteworthy.