“Rich nature, friendly people, and excellent cuisine – that's Istria”

Interesting history and architecture, rich cuisine, and vibrant city life interweave in the Istrian coastal towns, inviting exploration and tasting. Koper enchants with Venetian architecture, narrow stone streets, and picturesque Titov trg Square with a bell tower, where you can also visit the Praetorian Palace – the former seat of the city rulers. You can sit in the Golden Loggia café, where you can feel the true pulse of the main town of Slovenian Istria. Mauro also enjoys having coffee in this part of Koper. However, his favourite spots are Carpaccio Square and the house with the same name. Italian culture has indeed left a strong mark in Istria. “One of my favourite Renaissance artists, Vittore Carpaccio, resided here. He was honoured with a square and a house bearing his name in Koper.” Both are located right by the main Koper promenade, just behind the tavern – an event space where events unfold almost every day in warm weather.

Just a five-minute drive from Koper lies Izola, which will captivate you with its charming fishing atmosphere, old harbour, beautiful Svetilnik Beach, and pleasant town centre. If you want to learn about the maritime character of this town, visit Izolana – House of the Sea. Gourmets are invited to a special experience, Roman Tastes Under the Stars, at the archaeological park in San Simon in Izola.

In Piran, the Istrian tourist and cultural gem surrounded by walls, time flows differently amidst colourful house facades, cosy alleys, and the old port. Every day here feels like a vacation. Piran is also known as the town born from salt, evolving throughout history under the influence of nearby Venice.  Today, it's considered one of the most photogenic towns on the Adriatic coast. Besides its architecture, maritime museum, aquarium, and other attractions, the town also invites visitors with a diverse culinary offering, characteristic of every Istrian town!

“In addition to the exceptionally favourable climate experienced in Istrian towns and the countryside, a plethora of top-notch taverns and restaurants awaits. Culinary excellence is virtually guaranteed wherever you choose to dine!” The offerings are genuinely diverse, from fresh fish and delicious vegetable dishes to high-quality meats. Mauro loves seafood: black cuttlefish risotto and calamari are two of his favourite dishes available in most Istrian restaurants. Alongside a fresh seafood platter, a glass of local wine always complements the meal. The most renowned varieties in Slovenian Istria are Refosco and Malvasia. However, the speciality is orange wine, which Mauro adores. “I recommend to all visitors to try the truly exceptional orange wine, which is essentially a white wine made following the process typically used to make red wine.” This wine pairs excellently with both fish and meat dishes. In Izola, a special day is dedicated to it every year: the international Orange Wine Festival held in Manzioli Square. This event brings together enthusiasts and producers of this wine variety from all around the world. You can also taste orange wines at wineries in their cellars, mainly located in the Istrian countryside. They are also available in wine bars and boutiques.