Croatian Travel Costs: Pula's 2027 Airfares Drop by 20%

Travel costs to the Croatian city of Pula have declined sharply, positioning the Istrian coastal destination as a budget-friendly option for 2027. Skyscanner data shows airfares to Pula fell 20% year on year, while hotel rates dropped 4%. The city ranked seventh in Skyscanner's Best Value Destinations for 2027.

The price reduction applies to economy return flights booked between January and June 2026 for travel in the same period, compared with the previous year. Skyscanner included accommodation pricing in its analysis for the 2027 list. This price shift aligns with a wider trend among British consumers who prioritize value for money when selecting holidays.

ABTA Holiday Habits research indicates that value for money is now the primary reason for choosing a package holiday. Forty-eight percent of consumers cited this factor, up from 43% a year earlier. Pula offers a mix of urban sightseeing and beach access that appeals to travelers seeking this balance. The city combines Roman monuments with proximity to the Adriatic coast.

Pula is known for its well-preserved first-century Roman amphitheatre, which once held approximately 23,000 spectators. The Arena remains one of the largest surviving Roman structures in the world. Other ancient sites, including the Temple of Augustus, the Forum, and the Arch of the Sergii, are located within the city center. These landmarks allow visitors to explore historical sites on foot without extensive transport costs.

The Arena also serves as a live music venue for 2027. Rod Stewart is scheduled to perform there on June 22, 2027. Simply Red will follow with a performance on July 24. These events provide entertainment options for visitors during the summer months. The city's location also offers access to the wider Istrian peninsula, a region known for its vineyards, olive oil production, and truffle harvests.

Direct air connections from the United Kingdom to Pula are expanding. Jet2 has confirmed a new weekly direct service from Edinburgh starting May 2, 2027, and running until October 17. The airline will also maintain direct connections to Pula from Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands, London Gatwick, and Stansted in 2027. This increased connectivity aims to make the destination more accessible for British travelers.

Bisera Fabrio of the Croatian National Tourist Board (UK) stated that British travelers value authenticity, variety, and good value. She noted that Pula and Istria combine cultural heritage with coastal access and local food culture. Fabrio emphasized that the region offers distinct seasonal experiences, including spring exploration and autumn harvests. Croatia ranks 13th in ABTA's top 15 destinations for UK holidaymakers, with a population of approximately 3.9 million.