From the window of the bus, watch as the woodland and countryside of Istria passes by on your way to Pula, facing out over a stunning bay at the southern tip of the peninsular.
But the city is not only famous for its views over the Adriatic: it also boasts 3,000 years of history: wander along lanes and through flower-filled parks and you'll come across Roman ruins of every kind.
The triumphal arch you see, with its friezes and columns, was built in 27 BC in honor of the Sergii who distinguished themselves when Pula was called Pietas Iulia and was a thriving Roman city.
In front of the imposing bulk of the Temple of Augustus, you'll take a step back in time and imagine the majesty of the entire forum spreading out at its feet.
But the most incredible time capsule of all is the Pula amphitheater, on a hill overlooking the sea with walls more than 30 meters high. Ask your guide: it used to hold more than 20,000 people.
What do you say to a snack? Even better if it's in the shade of the olive grove, accompanied by an multi award-winning olive oil: the olives grown by the Belci family are gathered by hand and pressed within two hours. Can you taste all this care in the flavor?