Things to do on the Slovenian Coast

This is the beautiful Mediterranean part of Slovenia, where olive trees grow, fried or grilled squid is the star of snacks, and the beautiful sea enchants you with its fresh breeze.

The Slovenian coast is known for its colourful fishing villages, crystal clear water, and olive groves. Everywhere you go on the coast, there is plenty to offer.

The Primorska region of Slovenia can be explored at any time of the year. Events, concerts, and beaches are the main attractions in the summertime. During the colder seasons, there are other events, festivals, and some fascinating museums, so no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find something to do.

It is possible to visit this part of Slovenia in just one day. However, to truly enjoy this fantastic region bit by bit, a three—or four-day trip would be the best choice.

Cities to enjoy along the Slovenian Coast:

Ankaran City, Slovenia

This city is next to the border with Italy and the Lirroral region of Slovenia. Ankaran is a tiny but captivating city by the beach. It is mainly known for its summer season. In Ankaran, you will experience a tropical Mediterranean atmosphere, where olives, wine, pršut, and cheese are some of the few favourite things to enjoy.

Interesting points to visit:

1. Debeli rtič is a series of archaeological sites from Roman times. Remains of ancient settlements can also be found in the bay of St. Bartholomew (Sv. Jernej). It is a beautiful landmark to visit while exploring the Slovenian coast.
2. The Monastery of Saint Nicholas (No, it’s not the December Santa Claus). Take a break and stay at the Benedictine monastery of St. Nicholas, which dates back to the 11th century. This monastery has not been active as an abbey since 1641. However, a four-star hotel is now in the building. What a holy experience!

Koper Town, Slovenia’s Main Port

Koper is the oldest and most significant town on the Slovenian coast and is home to Slovenia’s main port. Slovenia was once part of Italy; you may notice a Sutil Italian style in architecture, culture, people, and food. This pretty medieval town offers a blend of culture and traditions.

Things to do in Koper for a day:

First of all, let’s start with getting yourself a Koper Card: with the coupons received at the purchase of this tourist city card, the visit of the main monuments and other activities is free of charge, as well as other numerous discounts and offers for this card’s holders

Just walking through the city centre would be like visiting a museum just free of charge as there is a lot to see:

1. The Praetorian Palace: This Venetian-Gothic palace dates back to the 15th century and is the main cultural monument of Koper. It’s one of the most beautiful architectural designs in this area of Slovenia. It is now home to the municipal seat, mayor’s office, and tourist information centre.

2. Tito Trg (Tito Square): This is an easy place to spot in the centre of Koper, just a short distance from the port. It is a must-see for visitors to this part of the Slovenia Coast, where you’ll find attractions like the Loggia, The Cathedral of the Assumptions, and Del Bello Palace, to name a few.
3. During the summertime, there is “Yellow Night,” a traditional event around different locations in Koper. It offers a variety of activities and events for all generations to enjoy. Along with a rich music program, the event features a varied culinary offer and workshops for children.
4. Another fun attraction for the whole family is “Center Eksperimentov,” which offers exciting activities for all ages.

Izola, Slovenia Coastal Gem

Going south on the road, towards Izola, another mesmerising gem of the Slovenian coast to appreciate.

Many people come to the old town of Izola for its beautiful, relaxing atmosphere. This place is small yet cosy, and you will find some tourists. However, it does not always get crowded, making it even more appealing to those wanting to escape.

The city centre of Izola features a mixture of Gothic and Baroque architecture. A short walk through the narrow alleys and hidden shops would be a delightful experience for anyone.

Stop by its lovely beach, swim or just sunbathe in the gorgeous sunshine on offer here. The bay of Simon is covered by lush Mediterranean vegetation. It is part of the undamaged Slovenian coast and is situated in the place wherein the Roman times was the harbour Haliaetum. You can get a fantastic view of the city of Izola from the Bay of Simon.

Piran, One of Slovenia’s Most Beautiful Towns

They say this is one of the most beautiful towns on the Slovenian coast and that it grew with the help of salt. Piran salt pans, where the world-class fleur de sel (flower of salt) is still produced today using age-old methods. It is a famous resort city with a colourful square, medieval walls, a lively harbour, and many great places to enjoy seafood.

Things to do in Piran:

2. Tartini Square (Tartinijev trg): This is the main square in Piran. It is named after the famous Italian composer Guiseppe Tartin, born and raised here. Many colourful buildings can be photographed here.
3. The Bell Tower: This tower is a stunning Venetian-style building. After climbing its 146 steps, you can enjoy 360-degree views of Piran City, making the trip worthwhile.
4. Magical World of Shells Museum: This is a small exposition over three rooms worth visiting. Here, you’ll discover and learn all about unique shells. Besides, it is the only Museum of Shells in Slovenia, which makes it a special place to visit. You’ll get to know some of the sea’s uniquely shaped creatures.
5. Visit The Sergej Masera Maritime Museum of Piran. It has a fascinating collection of Piran’s nautical history, from Roman, Venetian, Austro-Hungarian, and more recent times, including some beautiful model ships.
   
6. Sečovlje Salina Nature Park: This is the most significant wetland on the Slovenian coastline. People harvest salt in the northern part of the reserve, called Lera, using a 700-year-old method. The abandoned southern part of the reserve (Fontanigge) features many unique sights—birds, vast fields of halophytes, and over 100 abandoned and demolished buildings that were once used by workers in the salt industry. The reserve became a habitat for various animals and plants.
7. 17th MIFF: Mediterranean International Folklore Festival: Since 2003, this event has been organised by the folklore group Val from Piran. The main aim of the festival is to show the public a look at Mediterranean dances, music, singing and culture; a lot of fun to be enjoyed at this festival, especially for those visiting the area. In Slovenia, you must do what Slovenians do, which means “stay active”. Slovenians love being outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and nature, and participating in various sports. Although the Slovenian coast is not very long, around 50 kilometres, there are nicely arranged paths to walk along and appreciate the marvellous sea view and hills. Either by car, walking or cycling, it is your call, next top is Portorož.

Here is a list of options where you can rent a bike in the Area:

Portoroz Bike Hire: Bike and Motorbike Hire

Kopertours: Bike Rentals and Tours

Istranka: Rent a Bike

Portorož

From Piran to Portorož. This area along the Sloevain coast is famous for its clean beaches, spas, and wellness centres, where you can relax and get some well-deserved ‘you time’. It is also filled with pretty views and many coffee shops to stop by for a refreshing drink.

Things to do in Portoroz:

1. Internautica Boat Show: The Adriatic’s most significant marine lifestyle event with a long tradition is held yearly at the Portorož Marina in May. More than 250 specialised exhibitors participate annually, including over 30,000 visitors from Slovenia and its neighbouring countries. Traditional events accompanying the Boat Show are the Annual Internautica Regatta and the ever-amusing traditional Oldtimer parade of old-time vessels and vintage cars.
2. Church of St Bernardine: The remains of the former monastery comprise a well-preserved and eminent bell tower, the church hierarchy and the retaining wall complete with arches. The monastery and the church date back to the 15th century and are dedicated to St Bernardine of Siena.
3. Forma Viva is an open-air exhibition started by Slovenian artists Jakob Savinšek and Janez Lenassi in 1961. It has been open for 50 years, during which time masons from more than 30 countries have contributed more than 130 stone sculptures. The olive trees of Piran surround the exhibition and feature a breathtaking view over Portorož Bay and its surroundings.
4. Sparkling Wine Festival: Held on the 26 December, the glamorous Crystal Hall of the Kempinski Palace Portorož Hotel will host more than 30 Slovenian, Croatian, Italian and Austrian producers of sparkling wines. For anyone who enjoys wine tasting, this is a must-experience.
5. Rent a boat: Why not ride by the bay and see everything faster? Voila! You can do just that by renting a boat, Portoroz.
6. Dragonja River: This is a 30-kilometre-long river in the northern part of the Istrian peninsula. Along this path, you will see flysch (sedimentary rock) layers, which cause interesting geological processes and create impressive gorges. The valley has many abandoned mills, settlements, and farms that feature authentic and characteristic Istrian architecture. This valley is also a popular destination for hikers and cyclists.

Check out some other activities with Subaquatic and Portoroz

Food, drinks and sweets in Primorska

The Primorska region offers a fusion of Slovenian and Italian food—an admirable and mouth-watering blend of traditions presented in an edible way.

Lots of pasta, seafood, fish, olives, cheese, pršut and wine. There is plenty to try and choose from, a vast variety of food for all tastes.

The Harvest Tour offers up to 10 days of gastronomical experience. What a delicious way to spend your days, right?

However, is strongly recommended to try the Istrian olives and wine. This is usually possible at tourist farms such as Lisjaks, Granmona Farm, Vanjadujc, Olive Oil Times

Here is a list of Primorsko’s best wines and vineyards. Take your time and choose one or two to visit.

You should expect an excellent mix of tradition, modernity, pleasant weather, exquisite food, culture, language (Italian-Slovene), and warm people from your next visit to the Primorska region in Slovenia.

Budget Sleepover – Places to Stay in Each Place with the Slovenia Coast

Ankaran

Hostel Jadran, Hostel Debeli Rtič

Koper

Hostel Museum, Youth Hostel Histria, Secret Garden Hostel

Piran

Hostel Piran, Youth Hostel Piran

Portorož

Europa Hostel Portorož, Youth Hostel, Hostel Soline

We hope you’ve enjoyed this warm guide through the beautiful towns and cities over the Slovenian Coast. If you want to enjoy some thermal springs, we recommend the Posavje Region!