Hostel Art & Joy — Hotel in Grad Pula

It is a shame this hostel was so disappointing as it had so much potential. Great location with a nice common room and terrace, but this place is let down by the owners who will try and swindle you at every possible opportunity. First they overcharged us for our stay for more than we booked on hostel world, immediately giving off a bad vibe. The guests seem to be their lowest priority, preferring instead to socialise with their friends in the hostel itself or just sleep, and were never around when we needed them. But to make matters worse on the last day a number of our belongings went missing under very suspicious circumstances, my money's on that two-faced kleptomaniac cleaning lady. When we confronted the staff about this they played dumb and were extremely unhelpful. On top of that the kitchen facilities were tragic, bathrooms dirty, there was very little in the way of security and the beds were agonisingly uncomfortable. Avoid this place at all costs. You're better off sleeping in an alley somewhere; cheaper, less likely to get your stuff nicked and probably more...

Even before we had checked in we were showered with helpful suggestions on how best to spend our time in Pula. The strikingly arty family run hostel is located about a 10 minute walk from the bus station and about 5-10 minutes from Pula's town centre.

Never have I felt so welcome staying anywhere. The staff went far beyond their call of duty to make sure we had a fantastic time, and we certainly did.

The staff booked a (very cheap local) taxi to take us to swim inside caves and jump off cliffs. They offered us their bikes when we had to make a trip to the only super market open on a Sunday. They took us to the local market where they suggested the local fish and meat. After a 7 hour night bus journey and a visit to the market we rested our heads only to wake up and find that one of the staff had gutted, filleted and prepared all of our fish. It's worth mentioning that we were a group of nine so it was a lot of fish!

The staff were very friendly and helpful and did things without asking for anything in return.

10/10 would visit again.

Pula is a lovely city as was the...

I have stayed in Pula 5 times now. The first time was at an apartment with restricted check in times. 3pm to 5pm only. And a long walk to the centre.I was in a restaurant chatting to someone on the next table.He recommended Art and Joy hostel. I took a walk there the next day. His advice was spot on. I met the manager there and said may I have a look inside, with a possibility of staying there the following year. She agreed. Wow it was great I thought. So I booked for the next Summer. I wasn't disappointed. I have now stayed 4 times each Summer for 4 years.Close to the centre, and the staff are superb. They will help you with any issues you may have.. The hard working cleaner is great also. I recommend it. Choice of rooms to suit your requirements.And good value.. Give it a try for a few nights and then extend it if you want to. Obviously subject to...