Slovenian Coast
Although the Slovenian coast has only about 47 kilometers, it hides surprisingly magical places, a rich history and countless natural beauties in this short section. The Slovenian coast might seem inconspicuous, but on closer inspection, it will amaze you with its diversity. From Venetian-style Piran, through the vibrant Portorož and the port city of Koper, to the forgotten cliffs in the Strunjan Nature Reserve. Every piece of coastline in this area has something to offer.
Piran
Personally, I literally fell in love with the coast in Slovenia at first taste. I had the opportunity to return here several times years ago, as part of journalistic trips, when local guides introduced us to the most interesting places that I, as an ordinary tourist, would hardly get to. Thanks to these experiences and experiences from various journalistic trips, I can now show the beauties of Slovenia to you and my loved ones, and choose for our next visits to this fairytale country those places that are worth seeing, even several times in a lifetime.
>> SLOVENIAN COAST – COMPARE AVAILABLE ACCOMMODATION HERE
Izola
In this article, I will guide you through the most beautiful places that lie directly on the coast and show you that even such a short coast can offer breathtaking views, romantic streets, great gastronomy and places where you can relax, practically at any time of the year. Although I believe that from spring to autumn you will be, like me, the happiest here. You will find out where to go for the best views, which the Slovenian coast has a lot of, where you can find quiet beaches, what the famous salt pans hide and why you shouldn’t miss the picturesque town of Izola.
Get ready for a journey full of the scent of the sea, cicadas and the Mediterranean sun. The Slovenian coast will surely pleasantly surprise you.
Slovenian Coast – What to do and see
The Slovenian coast, stretching only 47 kilometers between the Italian and Croatian borders, is the smallest, but all the more picturesque section of the Adriatic coast. It lies in the area called Slovenian Istria, where the Mediterranean atmosphere combines with a rich cultural history and a diverse landscape. The coast is characterized by rugged terrain, pebble and rocky beaches, cliffs and lagoons. The main industrial and transport center of the area is the city of Koper with an important port, which is the largest in the country and plays a key role in Slovenia’s foreign trade.
You might also be interested in:
- Bled, Slovenia: 7 Trip Tips
- Zelenci: a nature reserve with an emerald lake
- Lake Jasna: tip for a trip and accommodation in Slovenia
In addition to industry, however, the coast also benefits from tourism, traditional fishing and sea salt extraction, which has a long history, especially in the Sečovlje salt pans. It is interesting that there are several microclimatic areas with extremely favorable conditions for growing olives and vines, which gives the region not only culinary, but also aesthetic charm.
My souvenir tip:
- If you visit the Slovenian coast, be sure to bring salt, wine and olive oil from one of the local shops.
Slovenian Coast – 15 tips for trips and places to visit
As I wrote above, the Slovenian coast is short, but it offers many interesting places that are worth visiting. I have prepared for you my 15 favorites, which you should not miss in your itinerary:
1. Piran
The most beautiful Slovenian seaside town with Venetian architecture, narrow streets and the iconic Tartini Square. Go up to the city walls and enjoy the wonderful view of the sea.
I probably don’t need to remind you that Piran is undoubtedly the most picturesque town on the Slovenian coast and is rightfully one of the most visited destinations in the country. Its historical center is located on a narrow peninsula that juts out into the Adriatic Sea, and at first glance it impresses with its Venetian architecture, narrow stone streets and red roofs of houses.
Slovenia, Piran: Tartini Square
The city was under the rule of the Venetian Republic for centuries, which is reflected not only in the architecture, but also in the overall atmosphere. The dominant feature is the magnificent Tartini Square named after the famous violinist Giuseppe Tartini, who was born in Piran. Above the city rises the church of St. George, from where there is a breathtaking view of the sea and the entire old town. My panoramic photos are from here. Piran is a car-free city, so get ready for pleasant walks in the labyrinth of quiet streets.
Slovenia, Piran – view of Tartini Square
The car must be parked in a parking lot about 1 km away and you have to walk to the center. There are advantages and disadvantages to this rule. In any case, walking in this fairytale town, practically without cars (only supply vehicles are allowed at certain times), is a truly breathtaking experience.
Read also:
Stay directly in the town of Piran:
Slovenian Coast, Piran: Hotel Piran 4*
2. Port of Piran – Slovenian Coast
Imagine a romantic promenade lined with cafes and restaurants.
The Port of Piran deserves its own tip as a place not to be missed on the Slovenian coast. It is an ideal place for an evening walk at sunset. The Port of Piran is a lively and vibrant center of the city, where locals and tourists meet. The promenade along the sea is lined with traditional cafes, which reflect the clear influence of Italy. But also excellent restaurants and shops, and in the summer there is an almost Mediterranean festive atmosphere.
In the evening, Piran turns into a romantic place ideal for a walk at sunset, when the facades of the houses and the sea surface turn into warm tones. From the port there is a beautiful view of the city walls, to which I took you in the previous tip for a trip, and of the lighthouse on Cape Madona, where the Piran peninsula ends. It is interesting that smaller yachts of famous personalities occasionally dock in the port, who have come to enjoy the quiet charm of Piran outside the main tourist routes.
Restaurant tips:
-
Luxury experience: Restavracija Pavel 2 – an elegant establishment right on the promenade with an excellent selection of fresh fish and seafood, select wines and a view of the sunset.
-
Cheaper option: Okrepčevalnica Cantina – an inconspicuous establishment with affordable prices, where you can enjoy homemade pizza, pasta or a fish menu without unnecessary frills, but with honest taste.
3. Lighthouse on Cape Madona
The westernmost point of Slovenia with a stunning view of the sea and Italy. A great place for photography and relaxation.
The lighthouse on Cape Madona, which rises on a rocky promontory at the very end of the Piran peninsula, is one of the most iconic places on the Slovenian coast. However, this place is not only a geographical point, it is a space where the sea, history and silence meet in perfect harmony. The lighthouse is part of the church of St. Clement and has been serving sailors since the 19th century and has literally become one of the symbols of Slovenian Istria.
Cape Madona is also the westernmost point of Slovenia and a popular place for romantic walks, watching the sunset and taking photos. During the day, there is a calm atmosphere with views of the endless surface of the Adriatic, and in clear weather you can see as far as the Italian coast. In the summer, people swim here directly from the rocks, while in the evening the space turns into one of the most impressive places to sit at sunset, just a few steps from the old town, and yet completely away from the hustle and bustle of civilization.
However, what many visitors still do not know is the interesting fact that there is one of the most beautiful diving and snorkeling spots here. If diving is your hobby, be sure not to miss this experience in Slovenia.
4. Strunjan – Slovenian Coast
A natural park with steep cliffs and beautiful beaches. Don’t miss the view of the Moon Bay, which is one of the most beautiful views on the coast. The beach in Strunjan is, in my opinion, the best natural beach on the Slovenian coast. You will find clean sea, a calm atmosphere and beautiful surrounding nature. I recommend packing foam mattresses or mats if you come here to relax.
5. Lucija
Lucija is a smaller coastal settlement located between Portorož and the Sečovlje salt pans, which is known primarily as a quieter residential area with good facilities for tourists. You will find the modern Marina Portorož, shopping centers, restaurants and green parks here. Thanks to its location, it is a great starting point for trips not only to nearby Piran, but also to the salt pans or the Strunjan Nature Reserve.
Although it does not have a historical center like Izola or Piran, it offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to beaches and cycle paths along the coast. You will find Camp Lucija here, where there are more than 500 places and pitches for tents and caravans. Since Lucija officially falls under Piran, which is a stone’s throw away, it is a really convenient choice of accommodation for discovering the most beautiful city on the Slovenian coast, when you go here cheaply with a tent or comfortably with a caravan.
Not far from the beach in Lucija there is an original option of accommodation directly in the Marina, in a floating house. If you want to experience an original holiday experience on the Slovenian coast, consider this option:
FLOATING HOUSE – MARINA RELAX 4*
6. Sečovlje – salt pans
Historical salt pans, where salt has been traditionally extracted for hundreds of years. You can walk along the educational trail or visit the museum.
At the very south of the Slovenian coast, near the border with Croatia, lies the Sečovlje salt pans. A unique landscape where sea water is traditionally transformed into salt. These salt flats are not only a technical monument, but above all a natural and cultural treasure of Slovenia. The salt pans cover an area of over 650 hectares and are divided into two parts – Lera, where salt is still mined today, and the more abandoned Fontanigge, where time seems to have stopped.
Slovenia, Sečovlje Salt Flats / Photo credit: Portoroz.si
7. Portorož
The most famous Slovenian resort with luxury hotels, a casino and a long sandy beach. Perfect place for relaxation and wellness.
If Piran is the most beautiful town on the Slovenian coast, then Portorož is the most elegant, at least in my opinion. Portorož, literally “Port of Roses”, is the most famous and luxurious resort on the Slovenian coast. Unlike the historical Piran, it relies on comfort, wellness and the atmosphere of a modern seaside town. Its roots date back to the Austro-Hungarian period, when the first spa houses using medicinal mud from the nearby salt pans began to be built here.
Today you will find a promenade lined with palm trees, elegant hotels, casinos, restaurants and beaches with fine sand, which is a rarity on the otherwise rocky Slovenian coast. Portorož is an ideal place for those holidaymakers who are looking for a combination of relaxation, entertainment and Mediterranean style. Although the city lacks a historical core, its atmosphere attracts visitors not only from Europe, who come here for the sun, sea and a touch of elegance.
Get inspired for your stay in Portorož:
- nice hotel with quality services in a good location
- luxury hotel in Portorož for a good price
HOTEL KEMPINSKI PALACE PORTOROŽ 5 *
- Hotel Kempinski is a classic in Portorož. You would hardly find more elegant and luxurious services here than you get for your money right here. If you long for a romantic and luxurious experience on the Slovenian coast, this hotel is our guaranteed certainty of quality.
8. Bernardin – Slovenian Coast
Modern hotel complex between Piran and Portorož with a beautiful coastal promenade and harbor. I included this place as a separate tip, as it is a popular destination every year, especially for summer holidays. But you can go here practically all year round and you will also be thrilled.
If you are looking for accommodation that combines luxury, sea views and an ideal location, the Bernardin hotel complex is the right choice. It is located on a quiet coastal section between the historical Piran and the elegant and busy Portorož, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds, romantic walks and nightlife.
The hotel offers direct access to a private beach, a modern wellness center with a view of the Adriatic, excellent restaurants and congress facilities. Each room has a balcony with a sea view, which ensures that mornings here begin with the sun over the horizon and evenings end with the sound of sea waves. Bernardin is an ideal choice for couples, families and demanding holidaymakers who long for quality, comfort and an unforgettable stay experience directly on the Slovenian coast.
GRAND HOTEL BERNARDIN 5*
9. Fiesa
Smaller, quieter part of the coast between Piran and Strunjan. You will find a beautiful lake surrounded by nature and a pleasant beach here.
Fiesa is a small, quiet part of the Slovenian coast, hidden in greenery. It is known primarily for its freshwater lake – the only one of its kind in the coastal part of Slovenia and today it is a protected natural site with the occurrence of rare species of birds and amphibians. The Fiesa area is ideal for those holidaymakers who are looking for an escape from the crowds of tourists and offers a smaller, quiet beach, hiking trails leading along the coast and simple accommodation in family guesthouses. Thanks to its location, it is a great starting point for trips to the surrounding area, whether on foot, by bike or by boat.
Tip for a hotel right on the beach:
BARBARA PIRAN BEACH HOTEL – FIESA 3*
10. Izola
Charming port town with narrow streets, fresh fish markets and great restaurants. Don’t forget to walk along the promenade to the lighthouse.
Izola is a city that will captivate you with its unobtrusive elegance and authentic atmosphere of a fishing port. It lies on a peninsula surrounded by a crystal-clear sea and smells of salt, lavender and freshly grilled fish. For example, unlike Portorož, Izola has retained a quieter character, which makes it an ideal refuge for those holidaymakers who want to relax and perceive the everyday life of the locals.
The narrow streets of the historical center recall the Venetian past of the city, while the promenade, the port and the hidden beaches invite you to quiet moments by the sea. Izola is not a city of ostentatious gestures, it is a place with a soul, where fishing tradition, Mediterranean charm and a gentle touch of romance combine. Personally, I had the opportunity to get to know the towns of the Slovenian coast even before, for example, Piran became a popular tourist destination. I dare say that Izola still maintains this calm character, at least outside the main summer season.
Where to stay in Izola?
Personally, we liked to book a few nights on the way to Croatia at the Hotel Belvedere, which is located on a hill above Izola. It’s a nice walk down to the city and from Belvedere it’s also a pleasant distance to the hidden beaches under the cliffs in the summer.
- A very affordable hotel for families with children
- Accommodation for more demanding holidaymakers in newly equipped rooms and apartments
- I recommend paying extra for the Junior Suite with a terrace and sea view
- Breakfast is possible in good weather in both hotels on a large terrace with a breathtaking view of Izola
Where to go to a Restaurant in Izola?
Luxuriously
- In Izola, you can taste excellent dishes in various price categories. For a luxurious gastronomic experience, I recommend the Marina Restaurant, which is located in the Marina Hotel. This popular restaurant offers a wide range of seafood, which Kája and I enjoy. If you head to the Slovenian coast, I recommend making a reservation here.
Economical
- If you are looking for a more affordable option, Fast Food Veni is a great choice. This small, popular establishment in the heart of Izola offers a large selection of dishes, including traditional hamburgers, sandwiches, soups, and local specialties such as pasta, mussels, or bean soup. The portions are large and the prices are reasonable. I believe you will find something you like.
11. San Simon Beach (Izola)
One of the nicest beaches that the Slovenian coast has is San Simon near Izola, and it is ideal for families with children. You will find the remains of a Roman villa and crystal-clear water here.
San Simon Beach, located in a quiet bay on the outskirts of Izola, is one of the best-equipped beaches in Slovenia. Thanks to the gradual entry into the sea and the fine sand, it is an ideal place for families with children and seniors. The beach area offers showers, playgrounds, pedal boat and water attraction rentals, as well as a beach bar and a restaurant with a sea view.
Interestingly, there are remains of a Roman villa near the beach, which gives this place an unexpected historical dimension. San Simon will be loved by every vacationer looking for a pleasant beach near popular accommodations. If you appreciate a quieter atmosphere, you will be satisfied here. Although the beach is popular during the main holiday months like all other places, you can enjoy pleasantly quiet days here in the spring and autumn.
My hotel tip:
Dependences – San Simon Resort 3*
12. Koper – old town
However, the Slovenian coast is not just about beaches and touristically interesting natural beauties. An example of this is the city of Koper, which is a place I definitely recommend not to miss. The historical center of the largest Slovenian port with Venetian palaces, the beautiful Tito Square, and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
Slovenia, Koper – Tito Square
Koper is the largest city on the Slovenian coast and an important port that combines history with modern tourism. Its old town has retained a distinctive Venetian character. Here you will find narrow streets, stone palaces, and squares like those from Italian postcards, with the Praetorian Palace and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary with a view from the tower dominating the scene. I have had the opportunity to visit the palace twice during our journalistic trips, and it is definitely worth climbing the stairs to it if it is open.
But Koper is not just about history. As an important economic center of Slovenia, it pulsates with lively energy, both thanks to the port and the proximity to the Italian border. The city also offers pleasant swimming, a modern promenade, many restaurants, and cultural events throughout the year. It is an ideal stop for travelers who want to get to know the true face that the Slovenian coast offers – authentic, lively, and still a little underrated.
Near the exit to Koper you will find beautiful and modern boutique accommodation with a swimming pool. I personally experienced one night here with dinner and breakfast and I am happy to recommend it further. It is an ideal starting position for your trips to the Slovenian coast if you only have a few days’ stop here. Koper is about 15 minutes away by car.
- Find the price and book your stay HERE
13. Žusterna (Koper)
The Slovenian coast offers beaches in practically every part of it, and it is no different with Koper. A popular recreational area by the sea with a large outdoor swimming pool, beach, and cycle path along the coast.
Žusterna is a city beach on the outskirts of Koper and is one of the most popular places for swimming not only for locals, but also for tourists who are looking for a comfortable base without crowds and overpriced services. Its advantage is easy accessibility; you can easily walk here from the city center or cycle along the coastal cycle path. The beach consists of a combination of concrete piers, grassy areas, and several sandy zones suitable for children. There are showers, changing rooms, and smaller refreshments available, as well as a children’s playground and sports equipment.
Thanks to the gradual entry into the sea, clean water, and relaxed atmosphere, Žusterna is a great place for an afternoon stop and all-day relaxation, all just a few minutes from the historical heart of Koper.
Tip for families with children:
- Popular, very affordable HOTEL AQUAPARK ŽUSTERNA
- You will find plenty of indoor and outdoor pools here
- The equipment is already outdated – ideal for those looking for cheap accommodation with swimming pools by the sea
- Find the price and book your stay HERE
14. Ankaran – Slovenian Coast
A quieter resort that adorns the Slovenian coast with a long beach, olive groves, and views of the Gulf of Trieste. Ideal for lovers of nature and relaxation. You will also find a pleasant campsite right by the sea here. I have personally tried Hotel Convent, which is part of the Adria Ankaran resort. It has its own concrete beaches and the charm of a former monastery.
The Hotel Convent itself is located in the premises of a former Benedictine monastery and underwent a successful renovation in 2020. I recommend trying the local half board. The restaurant is located in romantic spaces and you can look forward to traditional Mediterranean cuisine and other Slovenian specialties.
Hotel Convent – Hotel & Resort Adria Ankaran 4*
- Find the price and book your stay HERE
15. Debeli Rtič
A nature reserve at the northern end of the coast with wild beaches and pine forests. A great place for easy hikes. It is located near Ankaran and is my last tip for the end. It’s my secret trump card for a trip if you want to go somewhere where you won’t encounter many tourists. Especially the wild beaches there are worth a trip.
The Slovenian coast is short, but it offers an incredible number of beautiful places. Each of them has its own charm, from historical cities to nature reserves and beautiful beaches. Which of these places appeals to you the most from today’s article?
For more travel and vacation tips, follow me on IG and FB: @dovolenkarka
){kind=link}