Brijuni, though small in size, holds a remarkable travel narrative within Europe. Positioned near Pula’s coast, Brijuni National Park on the island unveils unique attractions such as authentic dinosaur footprints, an elephant gifted by Indira Gandhi, a car used by Queen Elizabeth during her visit, and the former private retreat of Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito.
Previously restricted to the public under Tito’s regime, the island now welcomes tourists with ease, offering direct flights from London to Pula starting at approximately £35–£40. Local guide and Villsy founder Toni Hrelja described Brijuni as a Mediterranean paradise with an unconventional history due to its past as Tito’s private sanctuary for exotic animals gifted by global dignitaries.
Spring emerges as an optimal period to explore Brijuni National Park, characterized by lush greenery, mild temperatures, and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season. The park encompasses 14 islands, with Veliki Brijun being the largest and hosting the main attractions, despite its compact size of 5.6 km2, allowing for convenient day trips.
Over 30 animal species inhabit the island, including Lanka, a 54-year-old elephant gifted by Indira Gandhi, and a herd of zebras presented by an African leader during the Non-Aligned Movement era. Notably, Koki, an African grey parrot owned by Tito, still resides on the island, engaging visitors with its playful demeanor.
Apart from the diverse wildlife, visitors can also experience a vintage Cadillac Eldorado, a mechanical relic from Tito’s time, available for hire to explore the island. Additionally, touring options like the tourist train, bicycles, or small electric golf carts are recommended to navigate through Brijuni’s various attractions, including the picturesque pine tree avenue with century-old trees.
Before becoming a political refuge, Brijuni served as a strategic outpost for the Byzantine Empire in the 5th and 6th centuries, evident through the well-preserved ruins that offer insight into the island’s historical layers. The island also boasts over 200 genuine dinosaur footprints dating back 130 million years, from the Early Cretaceous period.
Croatia, a short flight away from the UK, facilitates easy access to Brijuni starting from May, with direct flights to Pula available from major cities like London, Birmingham, and Bristol. Pula Airport, located 13 kilometers from Fažana, serves as the gateway for travelers to reach the national park via boat.
For convenient access, tickets to Brijuni National Park can be purchased online, with guided tours priced around £30–£35 for adults and approximately £13 for children, varying by season. Accommodation options range from hotel rooms to luxury villas on the island, although many tourists prefer staying on the mainland in Istria and visiting Brijuni as a day trip.