If you want to experience Pula like a local, skip the tourist shops and head straight to the City Market Pula.
Known locally as Gradska Tržnica, this marketplace has been at the centre of local life for over a century. Inside its glass-and-iron walls, you’ll find the best of Istria, from farm-fresh produce and handmade cheeses to truffle products, olive oils, and seafood straight from the Adriatic.
Join us as we explore the City Market Pula. We’ll share its fascinating history, the wide variety of local products, and the charming cafés and restaurants nearby. We’ll also explore nearby attractions and towns to visit while on holiday in Croatia.
The City Market of Pula
The City Market Pula is located at Narodni Trg 9, right in the heart of Pula’s historic centre. Built between 1902 and 1903, it’s one of the best examples of Austro-Hungarian Secession architecture in Croatia.
The market’s main hall is constructed of glass, iron, and symmetry. The ironwork was imported from the Witkovice Ironworks in Bohemia, and is the focal point of the market.
Today, there are over 60 vendors spread across the market’s indoor and outdoor areas. The indoor hall is full of butcher counters, cheese stalls, and spice sellers, while the open-air section is dedicated to fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
You can also find many cafés, bakeries, and restaurants within the Market’s square to enjoy after shopping.
The market is open Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm.
What local products and specialities can you find?
The City Market Pula is the perfect place to try the local ingredients from Istria.
Must-try checklist
- Istrian olive oil: among the most awarded in Europe, with a rich, fruity flavour.
- Truffle products: white and black truffles from Motovun Forest are an Istrian signature.
- Local cheese: especially goat and sheep cheese, often sold aged in olive oil.
- Wild asparagus: a springtime delicacy often used in local omelettes.
- Mushrooms and herbs: foraged from the surrounding countryside.
- Honey and lavender products: natural, handmade, and ideal as gifts.
- Prosciutto (Pršut): air-dried ham with a delicate smoky flavour.
- Fresh seafood: at the fish section of the market, featuring daily catches from the Adriatic.
- Seasonal fruit and vegetables: figs, tomatoes, grapes, and more, all grown in Istria.
Tips to remember:
💶 Many stalls accept cash only.
🕐Closes early in the afternoon.
💸Prices for truffles or olive oil may rise during tourist season.
🌅 Arrive early (around 8 am).
🛍️Bring a reusable bag.
💬Don’t hesitate to chat with vendors, as most will be happy to let you taste their products.
Restaurants and cafés near the market
After exploring the market, there’s no better way to relax than with a coffee or lunch in one of the many cafés and restaurants nearby. The area around the market square is filled with terraces and traditional eateries.
Café Uliks is a literary café named after James Joyce, who once lived in Pula. It’s ideal for a morning coffee while watching the world go by. Just a short walk away, Bistro Alighieri has traditional Istrian dishes such as fuži pasta with truffle sauce or a hearty seafood risotto.
In addition, bakeries and snack stands line the streets just outside the City Market Pula, where you can grab freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, or seasonal fruit to enjoy during a picnic by the nearby waterfront.
Tips for buying and exploring the City Market Pula
Planning your visit to the City Market Pula will help you make the most of your time and decide which local foods you’d like to try.
Best times to visit
- Early morning (7:00–10:00) for the best selection and cooler temperatures.
- Saturdays for the liveliest atmosphere, when locals do their weekly shopping.
Getting there
- The market is located in central Pula, a short walk from landmarks like the Roman Amphitheatre and Arch of the Sergii.
- Public transport and taxis are easily available. Parking is possible nearby, though limited during busy hours.
Buying advice
- Bring cash (euros) because many vendors don’t accept cards.
- Look for “Domaće” (home-grown) signs for authentic local produce.
- Compare prices between stalls before buying olive oil or truffles.
- If purchasing fish or meat, bring a cooler bag if you’re not returning immediately.
Etiquette tips
- If taking photos, ask permission first. And remember that the market closes early, so avoid arriving after 1 pm.
Nearby attractions and activities
The great thing about City Market Pula is its proximity to some of the city’s most famous sights. After your market visit, take time to explore Pula’s fascinating mix of Roman history and seaside charm.
Nearby Attractions
Just a ten-minute walk away, you will find the Pula Arena, one of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatres and a must-see for history lovers. A short stroll from there, the Temple of Augustus is located within the main forum. It stands as a reminder of the Roman legacy and influence in the region.
As you continue through the old town, the Arch of the Sergii stands as an elegant monument dating back to 27 BC, and symbolises the city’s ancient heritage.
For a change of pace, if you are visiting as a family with young children, a stop at the Pula Aquarium, located inside a 19th-century fort, is a must. Finally, to unwind after a day of sightseeing, head to the Verudela Peninsula. There is a beautiful walking trail along the sea, great for relaxing.
While in Pula, you can easily explore nearby Istrian gems such as Rovinj, Poreč, and Funtana, each offering its own mix of coastal charm, history, and local cuisine.
Come and visit the City Market of Pula
Whether you’re a foodie, photographer, or culture enthusiast, the City Market Pula is one of those places that truly captures the spirit of Istria.
If you’re planning a holiday in Istria, don’t miss the chance to experience this historical site in Pula.
For the perfect base to explore Pula and the surrounding coastline, book your accommodation with Solis Poreč. Our villas and apartments offer comfort, convenience, and the ideal starting point for discovering the treasures of Istria, including this famous market!
