Croatia

How to get from Pula to Rijeka

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

⏱
FASTEST
1h 23min
💶
From
10€
📍
Distance
69 km
Powered by 12Go system

There are 1 way(s) to get from Pula to Rijeka

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Pula
📍The main departure point in Pula is the Pula Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor Pula), located at Istarska ul. 15. This central station offers basic amenities like ticket counters, a waiting area, and nearby cafes. It's the hub for most bus services departing from Pula.
🚇The Pula Bus Station is easily accessible from the city center. You can walk there in about 10-15 minutes from the Arena or main squares. Taxis are also readily available, with a short ride costing approximately €5-€10, depending on your exact starting point.
⏰Buses from Pula to Rijeka run frequently throughout the day, especially during peak season. Services typically start early in the morning (around 6 AM) and continue until late evening (around 8 PM), with departures every 1-2 hours.
💸 Transport from 10€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 1h 23min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia
📶 Stay connected the moment you land

Activate an eSIM before you go: internet the moment you land, no SIM to swap, zero roaming fees.

Yesim · eSIM partner

Practical tips

💡
Book Bus Tickets in Advance

Even for mainland routes like Pula to Rijeka, booking your bus ticket online a few days ahead, especially during July and August, is wise. This guarantees your seat and avoids any last-minute unavailability, letting you travel with peace of mind.

💡
Confirm Departure Point

Always double-check your departure terminal. While Pula's main bus station is central, it's good practice to verify the exact location on your ticket to avoid any confusion, particularly if you have an early morning departure.

💡
Travel Light for Easy Transfers

If you're planning an extensive trip through Croatia, consider packing light. Smaller luggage is easier to manage when boarding buses or ferries, especially if you have to walk a short distance from a stop to your accommodation.

💡
Check for Direct Connections

For popular routes like Pula to Rijeka, direct bus services are usually available. Confirming a direct connection minimizes travel time and reduces the risk of missing a connecting service, making your journey more relaxing.

💡
Keep Ferry Options in Mind for Future

While not relevant for Pula to Rijeka, remember that coastal towns and islands often have multiple ferry ports (e.g., car ferry vs. catamaran). For future island hopping, knowing the correct port is crucial to avoid stress and missed connections.

🛣️ The journey experience

Planning your Croatian adventure means navigating stunning coastlines and charming islands. Getting from Pula to Rijeka is a straightforward journey, setting the tone for efficient travel within Croatia. Whether you're heading north to Rijeka to explore its vibrant port city, connect to other parts of Kvarner, or even continue towards Slovenia, knowing your transport options upfront ensures a smooth trip without the usual travel headaches. Our goal is to make sure you know exactly how to get there, how long it takes, and what to expect.

For the Pula to Rijeka route, your primary and most efficient option is the bus. The journey typically costs around €10 and takes approximately 1 hour, making it a quick and budget-friendly transfer. Several reputable bus operators serve this route, ensuring frequent departures throughout the day. This direct connection avoids any complex bus + ferry combinations, allowing you to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery without worrying about transfers or timing.

Croatia may look small on a map, but the distances and unique island connections can be tricky. For this specific route, the bus is your best bet, offering a direct link without the need for a ferry. Remember, while island hopping requires careful planning with ferry schedules (which can sell out in peak season!), mainland connections like Pula to Rijeka are generally very reliable. Always book your tickets online in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to guarantee your seat and avoid any last-minute stress.

Frequently asked questions — Pula → Rijeka

✨ Why visit Rijeka?

  • ✓ Explore Korzo, the vibrant main promenade with shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
  • ✓ Visit Trsat Castle, offering panoramic views of Rijeka, the Kvarner Bay, and surrounding islands.
  • ✓ Discover the Peek & Poke Computer Museum, a nostalgic journey through computing history.
  • ✓ Relax at Sablićevo Beach, known for its clear waters and picturesque pebble shore.
  • ✓ Experience the Rijeka Carnival (if timing allows), one of Europe's largest and most famous carnivals.
🌙
Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — to explore the city's main attractions and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

☀️ When to visit Rijeka?

MEDITERRANEAN, HUMID SUBTROPICAL

May to September — pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, swimming, and enjoying outdoor activities.

Jan 😐
Feb 😐
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
May 😊
Jun 😊
Jul 😊
Aug 😊
Sep 😊
Oct 😐
Nov 😐
Dec 😐
📍
In Rijeka — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Rijeka
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Rijeka?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🏰
Explore Trsat Castle History
Perched on a hill, Trsat Castle offers panoramic views of Rijeka and the Kvarner Bay. Wander through its ancient courtyards and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Climb the bell tower for the best photo opportunities. Access to the grounds is free, but the museum inside may have a small entrance fee (typically under 5€).
🚶‍♀️
Stroll Korzo Promenade
Korzo is the vibrant heart of Rijeka, a pedestrian promenade bustling with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. It's the perfect place for people-watching and soaking in the city's lively ambiance. Visit in the late afternoon for a coffee and to observe local life. Most cafes offer outdoor seating.
🎭
Admire Croatian National Theatre
The Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc is an architectural gem, known for its opulent interior and diverse program of opera, drama, and ballet. Even if you don't catch a show, its exterior and foyer are worth admiring. Check their website for guided tours or performance schedules. Tickets for shows often start around 10€.
🐟
Experience Rijeka Central Market
The Central Market, or Placa, is a bustling hub where locals buy fresh produce, fish, and local delicacies. The historic fish market building is particularly impressive. Go early in the morning (before 10h) for the freshest selection and to experience its authentic atmosphere. Expect lively haggling and vibrant displays.
⛪
Visit St. Vitus Cathedral
St. Vitus Cathedral is a unique Baroque rotunda, distinct from many other European cathedrals. Its circular design and rich interior are fascinating. Take time to observe the intricate altar and stained glass windows. Entry is generally free, but donations are welcome. Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
⚓
Explore Maritime History Museum
Housed in the beautiful Governor's Palace, this museum showcases Rijeka's rich maritime heritage. Exhibits cover shipbuilding, navigation, and the city's role as a major port. Allow at least 1.5-2 hours for a thorough visit. Admission typically costs around 5-7€. It offers a great insight into the region's past.
🎨
Discover Modern and Contemporary Art
The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMSU) features an impressive collection of Croatian and international art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Located in a repurposed industrial building, it offers a fresh perspective. Check their temporary exhibitions, which are often excellent. Entry usually around 3-5€.
⛰️
Hike to Risnjak National Park
For nature lovers, a day trip to Risnjak National Park is highly recommended. Enjoy pristine forests, diverse wildlife, and stunning mountain views. Various hiking trails suit different fitness levels. Entry to the park is around 7-10€. Consider packing a picnic as food options inside are limited. It's about a 45-minute drive from Rijeka.

⏱️ How long to visit Rijeka?

3 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 5 days in Rijeka is ideal. This allows you to explore the city center, its historical sites like Trsat Castle, and enjoy the local culinary scene without rushing. If you have more time, consider day trips to Opatija or the nearby islands.

Related searches

bus Pula Rijeka how to get from Pula to Rijeka ticket price Pula to Rijeka travel time Pula to Rijeka travel to Croatia

Other trips from Pula

Book now