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Pula Self-Guided Quest: Shadows of the Empire

4 Reviews 4.50 out of 5 stars Based on 4 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Pula, Croatia
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from $8.02 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.
1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
German
Instant confirmation

Overview

One of the world's six surviving Roman amphitheaters rises above Pula's skyline — but the city's layers run much deeper. In this self-guided walking quest, move through 2,700 years of contested history: Roman arches, Austro-Hungarian underground tunnels, a Venetian hilltop fortress, and a harbor shaped by empire after empire.

Start anytime, no guide needed, ~2 hours, ~2.7 km through the old city.
Using the free Questo app, solve real-world puzzles at 10 historical landmarks — from the Arch of the Sergii, one of Rome's oldest surviving triumphal arches, to the hilltop Kastel fortress with panoramic views across the Adriatic.

Along the way, uncover stories that don't appear in any guidebook: the Irish literary giant who despised the city, the naval attack on a ship that had already surrendered, and the beach massacre that emptied a town.

Pula rewards the curious. This quest is designed to reveal it. Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers. Difficulty: easy.

What's Included

  • Flexible scheduling — start anytime, play at your own pace
  • The Arch of the Sergii, the Kastel fortress, underground tunnels, and more
  • Fascinating stories hidden in plain sight across 2,700 years of history
  • Live tour guide (fully self-guided via the free Questo app)
See 2 moreSee 1 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Narodni trg 9
52100, Pula, Croatia

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Gradinski uspon 10
52100, Pula, Croatia

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Narodni trg

Narodni trg, or People’s Square, is the vibrant heart of Pula’s old town—a place where Roman ruins meet Renaissance charm. Lined with historic buildings and lively cafés, it’s been the city’s gathering place for centuries. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow a trail of clues through winding streets to uncover this iconic square. Once there, a puzzle awaits—solve it to reveal a hidden story from Pula’s past, then continue your adventure deeper into the city’s secrets. Every step brings you closer to unlocking the empire’s mysteries.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Arch of the Sergii (pass by)

Rising proudly at the edge of old Pula, the Arch of the Sergii is a stunning Roman triumphal arch that has stood for over 2,000 years—a symbol of victory and legacy. Travelers marvel at its intricate carvings and grand presence. In your Questo quest, you’ll navigate hidden clues that lead you to this ancient monument. Here, a clever riddle unlocks a forgotten tale buried in stone. Solve it, uncover the secrets behind the Sergii family’s power, and set off toward your next mystery in Pula’s living museum of history.
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Zerostrasse (pass by)

Beneath the streets of Pula lies Zerostrasse—a network of eerie underground tunnels built during World War I to shelter the city’s residents. Dark, cool, and echoing with the past, it offers a rare glimpse into the city’s hidden wartime history. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow cryptic clues that lead you into this subterranean world. Inside, solve a puzzle tied to its secret role in Pula’s defense, uncover a long-buried story, and emerge ready to tackle the next chapter of your urban adventure.
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Tito's Park (pass by)

Tucked between the harbor and city center, Tito’s Park is a peaceful green space with a powerful past. Scattered with old cannons and monuments, it reflects Pula’s military history and honors those who shaped its 20th-century story. In your Questo quest, you’ll decode clues that guide you here, where nature meets memory. Once inside the park, a clever riddle will challenge your observation skills and unlock a hidden tale tied to Yugoslav history. Solve it, reflect, and then set off toward your next mysterious destination in Pula.
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ACI marina Pulj (pass by)

Nestled in Pula’s historic harbor, ACI Marina Pula offers more than just a scenic mooring spot—it’s a gateway to centuries of maritime heritage. Once the Austro-Hungarian Empire's main naval base, this natural bay has welcomed sailors since ancient times. As you navigate your Questo quest, clues will guide you to this iconic marina, distinguished by its unique circular building affectionately known as “the Cake” . Here, a nautical-themed puzzle awaits, challenging you to delve into the harbor’s storied past. Solve it to uncover a hidden tale of Pula’s seafaring legacy, then set sail toward your next adventure.
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Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (pass by)

Overlooking the sea and steeped in centuries of faith, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of Pula’s oldest and most sacred sites. Built atop Roman ruins, its layered architecture reveals the city’s spiritual journey from empire to modern day. In your Questo quest, clues will lead you through quiet streets to this historic cathedral. Once there, solve a puzzle inspired by its hidden symbols and relics, uncover a secret story from deep beneath the altar, and continue your adventure through Pula’s timeless past.
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The Town Hall (City Palace) (pass by)

At the edge of Pula’s ancient Roman Forum stands the Town Hall, or City Palace—a striking blend of architectural styles built over the ruins of the Temple of Diana. With its mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements, it tells the story of Pula’s civic life across centuries. In your Questo quest, follow a trail of clues to uncover this historic landmark. Once there, a clever puzzle invites you to look closer at its intricate details, revealing a hidden story from the city’s political past before you journey onward.
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Veteran Community Center (pass by)

Once a glamorous Austro-Hungarian naval casino, Dom branitelja is one of Pula’s most elegant historic buildings. With its grand staircase, high ceilings, and ornate halls, it whispers stories of officers, orchestras, and empire. As part of your Questo quest, you’ll follow clues through the city’s center to reach this architectural treasure. Here, a riddle awaits—solve it to unlock a hidden chapter from the building’s fascinating past. Then, step back into the streets of Pula and continue your mystery-filled journey through time.
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Floor mosaic The Punishment of Dirce (pass by)

Tucked away behind an unassuming courtyard lies one of Pula’s hidden treasures—the ancient Roman mosaic The Punishment of Dirce. Dating back to the 3rd century, this masterpiece vividly depicts a dramatic Greek myth and is one of the few of its kind preserved in the world. During your Questo quest, you’ll follow clever clues that guide you to this secret spot. Once there, solve a puzzle inspired by the mosaic’s striking imagery, uncover the dark legend behind it, and continue your immersive journey through Pula’s storied streets.
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Pula Citadel (pass by)

Rising above the city on a hilltop, Pulski Kaštel is a fortress with a commanding view and an even more commanding past. Once a Venetian stronghold guarding the harbor, it has witnessed centuries of battles, empires, and intrigue. In your Questo quest, you’ll follow a trail of clues winding upward through Pula’s old streets to reach this historic citadel. At the top, a puzzle challenges you to uncover a hidden story locked within the fortress walls—then it’s onward to your next discovery in this adventure through time.
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Show 9 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Pula Self-Guided Quest: Shadows of the Empire?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-107194P520

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.50
4 reviews

Average 4.50 out of 5 stars based on 4 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
2
4 stars
2
3 stars
0
2 stars
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1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.
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Popular Pula Attractions

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Pula Self-Guided Quest: Shadows of the Empire?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Flexible scheduling — start anytime, play at your own pace.
  • The Arch of the Sergii, the Kastel fortress, underground tunnels, and more.
  • Fascinating stories hidden in plain sight across 2,700 years of history.
  • Real-world puzzles at Roman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian landmarks.
  • Self-guided historical walking quest through Pula.
The following is NOT included:
  • Live tour guide (fully self-guided via the free Questo app).
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 8..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Pula Self-Guided Quest: Shadows of the Empire is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Pula Self-Guided Quest: Shadows of the Empire will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Flexible scheduling — start anytime, play at your own pace
  • The Arch of the Sergii, the Kastel fortress, underground tunnels, and more
  • Fascinating stories hidden in plain sight across 2,700 years of history
  • Real-world puzzles at Roman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian landmarks
  • Self-guided historical walking quest through Pula
  • Live tour guide (fully self-guided via the free Questo app)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Report Product Issue

Activity name