Piran – a perfect extension of the summer
If you’re interested in my idea for one week in the beautiful Slovenia, read here. Today’s entry should be considered a cherry on top, covering the town of Piran and its area.
Slovenian coast
Slovenia’s coastline is only 44 km long, but surprisingly varied. The Istrian Peninsula belongs to three different countries, and so looking at the Adriatic Sea from its Slovenian part you’ll see Italy on the right and Croatia on the left. Venice is a stone’s throw from Piran by the sea.
Holiday atmosphere
Sunny weather and warm sea water in October in Europe? That’s what Piran has to offer! According to the locals, the season lasts there all year round. You can go on endless strolls in its impressive old town, walk down its well-maintained promenade, or simply enjoy the holiday atmosphere of its busy restaurants and cafés. Long evenings with live music and fresh seafood – doesn’t it sound like a perfect idea for a late summer holiday? Piran is both romantic and relaxed, which personally is my favorite combination. Not to mention ships moored in its port – a perfect background for holiday photos 😉
Breathtaking architecture
Piran’s architecture is truly outstanding. The town is located on a spiky, rocky promontory, which you can admire from its medieval defensive walls encircling the whole town, which have protected it for centuries. Piran’s spectacular location is best visible from the air. The red-orange rooftops of the old town, with Tartini Square (named after an Italian composer from Piran) in the center, and the lush green Mediterranean flora. In the afternoon, it’s best to visit the church mounting over the town, from where you can admire panoramic vistas of the town and the coastline, and appreciate how tall and steep the cliff where Piran is located is.
Fascinating history
Piran’s history is long, complicated, and simply fascinating, full of various regional and cultural influences. It dates back to antiquity, and after the fall of the Byzantine Empire it fell under the influence of Venice, which has left the most long-lasting imprint. Other significant influences include Napoleon, the Austrian House of Hapsburg, and the late modern period – Italian, Yugoslavian, and obviously Slovenian.
Something extra - Škocjan Caves
Having soaked up Piran’s amazing atmosphere, it’s time to pay a visit to the phenomenal Škocjan Caves, located just half an hour away by car. Škocjan Caves is an underground phenomenon which forms one of the longest karst underground wetlands in Europe, characterized by its unique, huge chambers. Inside, you’ll find not only all existing underground karst forms, but also monumental chambers and corridors, which at some points get significantly narrow. I really recommend a guided tour – the trail is several kilometers long, well-designed and maintained, and leaves a lasting impression – not only on adults, but also on kids, including babies in carriers 😉 It’s a bit dark, a bit wet, and a bit cold, and what’s more, there is a big underground river called – surprise surprise – Reka, i.e. a river in Slovenian. So creative! Having said that, the river is somewhat mysterious, as we don’t really know its full course over several dozen kilometers. While waiting for admission outside, it’s best to take a nice, short walk in the surrounding landscape park – something for fans of nature and… abysses 😉
Piran (and Škocjan Caves) offer a beautiful October adventure! A genuine treasure of Istria, perfect for an early fall trip ❤️ The atmosphere of an endless summer guaranteed!