Exploring the Hidden Gem of Slovenia: Koper

Nestled along the picturesque Adriatic coast lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travellers seeking authentic experiences.

The town’s old-world charm

Cobblestone streets wind their way through the historic centre of Koper, lined with pastel-coloured buildings, balconies and terracotta roofs.

Visitors love wandering through the labyrinthine streets of Koper.

Our first stop is the main square (Titov Trg). Here is where the majestic Praetorian Palace commands attention with its Venetian Gothic architecture. The nearby Cathedral of the Assumption dominates the skyline with its elegant bell tower.

Koper is a quaint coastal town in Slovenia that effortlessly blends history, culture, and the beaches.

Down the street, towards the sea you will stumble upon hidden gems like the picturesque Carpaccio Square with some old renaissance buildings and a lovely sea-food restaurant Miramar – a MUST stop.

No visit to Koper would be complete without indulging in the region’s culinary delights.

What to try?

Koper offers a delightful culinary journey that combines Mediterranean flavours with local specialties. Here’s a taste of what you can expect when exploring the culinary scene in Koper.

Fresh Seafood: As a coastal town, Koper prides itself on its abundance of fresh seafood. From succulent Adriatic fish to plump shellfish, you’ll find an array of seafood dishes served in local restaurants and taverns. The photos below were taken at Mornarček fish canteen.

Grilled sardines, calamari, branzino baked in sea salt, and seafood risotto are just a few highlights that showcase the bounty of the Adriatic. 

Olive Oil: Slovenia is renowned for its high-quality olive oil, and Koper is no exception. Locally-produced olive oil is a staple ingredient in many dishes, adding richness and flavour. You can also visit one of the nearby olive oil mills. Here you can sample and purchase some of the finest olive oils in the region. 

Karst Prosciutto

Just a short drive from Koper lies the Karst region, famous for its exceptional air-dried ham known as Karst prosciutto. Karst prosciutto is aged for months, resulting in a tender and flavourful delicacy. Pair it with fresh bread, local cheese, and a glass of Slovenian wine for a truly indulgent experience. 

High-quality wines

Slovenia may be small, but it’s home to a thriving wine culture, and Koper is no exception. The region’s mild climate and diverse terroir create ideal conditions for grape cultivation.

Visit one of the local wineries or wine bars to sample varietals such as Malvasia, Refošk, and Teran. Each of the pairs beautifully with the local cuisine. 

Whether you’re indulging in seafood by the sea, savouring the flavours of Karst prosciutto, or exploring the local markets, a culinary adventure awaits in this charming Slovenian town.

Beauty and the beach

Koper is known as Slovenian port town. It has two beaches: Koper city beach (so called “Mokra mačka” – wet cat) and the beach in Žusterna. Otherwise, you can also enjoy sunbathing, swimming and other beach activities on the coastal area between Koper and Izola.

At the end of the Semedela promenade you can also find a dog beach which is separated from other bathing areas and equipped with all the necessary equipment that enables dogs to cool off.

Don’t skip Koper, when visiting Slovenia. Even though it is not usual stop for most tourists, it’s well worth a visit!

We visit Koper every summer and just enjoy life …

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