Car Hire Pula Airport

Touching down at Pula Airport puts you right at the gateway to Istria, Croatia’s most northwesterly region and arguably its most underrated corner. This compact airport sits just outside Pula city center, making it incredibly convenient for picking up a rental car and hitting the road within minutes of landing. Unlike some of Croatia’s busier airports, you won’t find yourself battling through crowds or navigating endless terminals here — it’s refreshingly straightforward, which is exactly what you want when you’re eager to start your holiday.

Having your own wheels in Istria is honestly a game-changer. This heart-shaped peninsula offers everything from Roman ruins and Venetian hilltop towns to truffle-filled forests and crystal-clear swimming spots. Public transport exists, but it’s limited and won’t get you to those hidden coves or family-run konobas (traditional taverns) tucked away in the countryside. With a hire car, you can explore at your own pace, whether that means spending the morning at a beach and the afternoon wine tasting in the hills, or hopping between historic towns without watching the clock.

Picking Up Your Rental Car

Pula Airport is small enough that you won’t have trouble finding the car rental counters — they’re located in the arrivals hall, and you’ll spot them as soon as you’ve collected your luggage. Most major rental companies have a presence here, along with some local operators. The process is typically quick, but during peak summer months (July and August), queues can build up, so it’s worth having your booking confirmation and documents ready to go.

Speaking of documents, you’ll need your full driving licence (an International Driving Permit is required if your licence isn’t in Roman script), your passport, and the credit card used for the booking. Make sure the card is in the main driver’s name, or you’ll run into problems at the counter. It’s also worth checking your car thoroughly before driving off — photograph any existing scratches or dents and make sure they’re noted on your rental agreement. The car parks are just outside the terminal building, literally a two-minute walk, so you won’t be lugging suitcases far.

One thing to keep in mind: fuel stations near the airport can get busy, and some close fairly early in the evening. If you’re arriving late, ask your rental company about their fuel policy and where the nearest 24-hour station is located for your return journey.

Where to Go

Pula City Center (15 minutes) — You’re barely 6 kilometers from one of Croatia’s most fascinating cities. Pula’s Roman amphitheater is the headline act — it’s one of the best-preserved in the world and still hosts concerts and film screenings. Don’t miss the Temple of Augustus in the Forum, and give yourself time to wander the backstreets where you’ll find excellent seafood restaurants and bustling markets.

Rovinj (40 minutes) — Heading north along the coast, you’ll reach this impossibly photogenic town in under an hour. Rovinj’s old town is a tumble of pastel-colored houses perched on a peninsula, with cobbled streets leading up to the Church of St. Euphemia. Arrive early or late in the day to avoid the worst crowds, especially in July and August. Parking can be tricky in high season, so look for the large paid parking areas on the outskirts and walk in.

Motovun and the Hilltop Towns (1 hour) — Inland Istria feels like a different world. Motovun is the star attraction, a medieval town surrounded by Venetian walls and famous for its truffles. The drive takes you through rolling hills covered in vineyards and oak forests. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue to Grožnjan, an artists’ colony that’s one of the prettiest villages in all of Croatia.

Brijuni Islands (30 minutes to Fažana) — These fourteen islands form a national park accessible by boat from the fishing village of Fažana. You can’t take your rental car across, but you’ll need it to reach the ferry terminal. The islands were once Tito’s private retreat and are home to zebras, elephants, and ancient Roman ruins — a surreal and wonderful day trip.

Trieste, Italy (1 hour 15 minutes) — One of the joys of staying in Istria is how close you are to Italy. Trieste makes for a brilliant day trip — grand Habsburg architecture, excellent coffee culture, and a completely different vibe from the Croatian coast. Just remember your passport for the border crossing, although checks are usually quick.

Tips for Driving

Driving in Croatia is generally straightforward, but there are a few quirks worth knowing. First, you must drive with your dipped headlights on at all times, even during the day — it’s the law. Speed limits are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on motorways. The police do conduct regular speed checks, particularly on roads leading into towns, so don’t get caught out.

Istria’s roads are well-maintained, but some of the more scenic routes — particularly those leading to hilltop towns — can be steep and winding. If you’re not confident on narrow mountain roads, take it slow and don’t feel pressured by local drivers who know every bend. In summer, coastal roads can get busy, especially on weekends when domestic tourists are also on the move.

Parking in Croatian towns usually requires payment via machine or mobile app (look for signs saying “Parking zone”). Prices vary, and enforcement is strict, so always buy a ticket. Many old towns have restricted access zones (often marked with a red circle and car symbol) — don’t drive into these unless your accommodation has arranged a permit for you.

Finally, if you’re planning to cross into Slovenia or Italy, check your rental agreement first. Some companies charge extra for cross-border travel, and others restrict it entirely. Always carry your rental documents when crossing international borders.

Ready to explore Istria at your own pace? Book your Pula Airport car hire today and start planning your Croatian adventure — those hidden beaches and hilltop sunsets aren’t going to discover themselves.