The best places in Croatia for nightlife

Istria is blessed with gorgeous beaches, and famed for its natural beauty as much as for the beautiful buildings and cobbled streets of scenic cities like Pula. But what do you do when the sun goes down? If you enjoy a night out on the town, you’ll be pleased to hear that Istria is considered by many to be the best place in Croatia for nightlife. Here are some ideas for some of the best clubs to visit when you’re on holiday in Istria.

Uljanik Club – Pula

One of Istria’s most legendary clubs, Uljanik is right in the centre of Pula, by the shipyard of the same name. Famous for its rock music, it’s been a firm fixture on the Pula nightlife scene since the 1960s and continues to offer a busy programme of events such as concerts and themed parties. Thursday night is student night, and in the summer you’ll love the outdoor terrace. It’s open until 6am – late enough even for the most hardcore of party-goers.

Jimmy Woo – Umag

You’ll find this popular summer-only club in the Stella Maris resort area of the coastal town of Umag, and on Facebook here. Jimmy Woo’s palm tree-laden terrace is the perfect spot for unwinding with a drink on balmy summer evenings, and there are over a hundred cocktails for you to choose from. It’s the place to be for the Croatian Open ATP tennis tournament in July, as it’s right next door to the stadium.

Byblos – Porec

Byblos in Porec has been hailed as one of Croatia’s most beautiful nightclubs, with a largely monochrome interior designed by Mario Lucchi. With its beach lounge bar, superb sound system and names like David Guetta gracing it with their presence, this is a club you won’t want to miss when you’re staying in Porec. Head there on a Friday to catch international DJs, or go on Thursday for Ladies’ night.

Aquarius – Pag

If you’re looking for thumping beats 24/7, Aquarius on popular Zrce Beach, Pag, is the place to be. During the day, it’s a restaurant and beach bar with great views, and its large swimming pool is a great place to soak up the rays. In the evening, it transforms into a bustling night club, complete with both indoor and outdoor dancefloors and gigs featuring world-renowned DJs. In June and July, it’s the setting for the popular Hideout Festival, Pag’s most popular music festival.

Papaya Club – Pag

Considered one of the world’s best open-air clubs, Papaya is another great choice on Pag’s Zrce Beach. A hugely popular summer destination, it hosts foam and cocktail parties on a daily basis, with Swedish House Mafia and Van Buren among the famous names to DJ here. If you’re a nightlife afficionado, you won’t want to leave this one off your Croatia holiday itinerary.