Published Feb 09, 2024 - Updated Mar 29, 2024

That Piran is the undisputable gem of the short Adriatic coast of Slovenia, anyone who has briefly thought of visiting the country is aware of. Now, it’s time to discover the details of the Venetian-style Slovenian masterpiece. Its history, the places where to spend a night or the restaurant where you can eat once you decide to stop meandering through its narrow alleys, Piran won’t have any more secrets after finishing reading this article.

History of Piran

Following is a compact version of the history of Piran, a useful vademecum to consult before and after your visit to this magnificent town.

• Pre-Roman Era: Inhabited by Illyrian Histri tribes engaging in farming, hunting, and fishing. Also known as pirates disrupting Roman trade in the northern Adriatic.

• Roman Rule (178-177 BC): Piran Peninsula incorporated into the Roman Empire, settled with rural homes.

• Decline of Roman Empire and Byzantine Rule (5th to 7th Century): Roman population withdraws due to incursions by Avars and Slavs. Piran becomes heavily fortified under Byzantine rule.

• Franks and Holy Roman Empire (788-952): Despite defenses, the Franks conquer Istria in 788, and Slavs settle in the region. By 952, Piran becomes a part of the Holy Roman Empire.

• 7th Century Records: Earliest reliable records in the 7th century, possibly named "pyrrhos" meaning "red" in Greek due to reddish stones. Some historians also associate it with "pyros," signifying fire, attributing this to the presence of ancient lighthouses that were believed to be situated on the marina's edge.

• Venetian Rule (1283-1797): Piran becomes part of the Republic of Venice, repelling enemy and pirate assaults. Plagued by a pestilence in 1558.

• Austrian Empire and Napoleonic Era (1797-1814): Annexed to the Austrian Empire in 1797, temporarily ceded to the Napoleonic Empire from 1806 to 1814.

• Austro-Hungarian Era (Late 19th to Early 20th Century): Piran becomes an Austro-Hungarian town, its population exceeding 15,000, with a predominant Italian majority. Flourishing market and spa town with good transport connections.

  
  Piran Late 19th Century - See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

   

• Post-World War I to Yugoslav Annexation (1918-1954): Ceded to Italy after World War I, assigned to the Free Territory of Trieste under Yugoslavian administration after World War II. Annexed to Yugoslavia in 1954.

• Emigration and Annexation to Yugoslavia (1954-1975): Significant population emigrates during the Istrian–Dalmatian exodus. Annexation to Yugoslavia ratified in 1975 with the Osimo Treaty.

• Independent Slovenia (1991-Present): Piran becomes part of independent Slovenia since 1991.

What to Do in Piran

Piran offers a wide array of possibility for pretty much every type of traveller. We grouped the options into 4 groups Historical and Cultural Exploration, Culinary Experiences, Outdoor and Nature Activities and more general experiences. 

Historical and Cultural Exploration

Visit Tartini Square (Tartinijev trg)

The heart of the town and the place where the visit to Piran inevitably starts, Tartini Square is the perfect place to admire pastel-colored buildings from the Venetian era and watch people coming and going while sitting in one of the cafes that surround the square.

Discover Piran's churches and monasteries 

Reserve yourself some time to enjoy the religious architecture that Piran has to offer. Perched on the hill above Piran, St. George's Parish Church is a captivating Roman Catholic gem, showcasing Venetian Renaissance architecture. Crafted by stonemason Bonfante Torre from Venice, this dedicated sanctuary, with its stunning bell tower mimicking St. Mark's Campanile, narrates centuries of history and religious devotion. A testament to resilience, it underwent various constructions, restorations, and enhancements, now standing as a revered landmark, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Trieste from its historic grounds.

The view from the top of the Bell Tower is considered by most of the tourist one of the best spot to admire Piran. In the summer you won't have problem to reach the top considering that it is open daily from 10am until 8pm. If you plan to climb Piran's bell tower in the winter you better take into consideration that it is open only during the weekends. It costs 2 Euro.

The church of Our Lady of Health Church, the Baroque baptistery (Church of St. John the Baptist), the Church of Our Lady of the Snows, the Church of the Holy Mary of Consolation, St. Peter’s Church, St. Rocco’s Church, St. Stephan’s Church, Monastery Church of St. Francis of Assisi are among the other magnificent gems that can make your Piran's visit more culturally and architecturally interesting.

Walk the Medieval Walls of Piran

Explore Piran's ancient fortifications, the Walls of Piran (Piransko obzidje), guarding this coastal gem on the Adriatic. Dating back to the 7th century, these walls evolved with the town's expansion, creating a captivating journey through its history. The first wall, separating the town into four streets, sets the stage in the old town, while subsequent walls emerged during Venetian rule, growing with Piran's prosperity.

Today, these walls stand as a testament to centuries past, offering an open invitation to venture through history. Accessible from 8 am until dusk, with a nominal 2 Euro entrance fee, you can climb to various points for unparalleled views. Navigate the preserved northern part of the third wall, marvel at the intact sections, and absorb the juxtaposition of the orange rooftops meeting the shimmering blue Adriatic sea. On rainy days, due to safety reasons, it is not possible to visit the walls.

Wander through the Old Town

This is probably the most natural activity that anyone who visits Piran ends up doing without even thinking. The narrow alleys flanked by historical buildings, reminiscent of Venice, will invite exploration without a map and/or points of interest to follow. Spending a couple of hours losing orientation surrounded by architecture and randomly choosing to turn left or right at the next corner will etch into your memory and stay with you even after you leave Piran.

Check out Piran's Museum

Rainy day or an incredibly hot day? Piran's museum can help you find a solution. 

Maritime Museum - Pomorski Muzej - Immerse yourself in maritime heritage at the 19th-century Gabrielli Palace. Explore diverse exhibits on maritime archaeology, ethnological fishing, and the history of maritime enterprise. The museum oversees additional units, including the Museum of Salt-making, Tona's House, Tartini's Memorial Room, and Monfort.

Magical World of Shells Museum - Muzej školjk - Step into a world of shells curated by biologist Jan Simič. This extraordinary museum boasts a diverse collection of 4,000 shellfish and snail specimens from global seas, emphasizing the unique importance of those from the Slovenian sea. Experience an unforgettable journey promoting environmental consciousness.

Tartini House - Visit the birthplace of Giuseppe Tartini, a violinist from Piran. This historical house on Tartini Square, dating back to 1384, showcases neoclassical style and reveals interesting wall paintings from its recent renovation. The museum section displays Tartini's violin, a copperplate engraving of his dreams, and more.

Mediadom Pyrhani - Discover Piran's rich history at this multimedia museum, operating as a cultural hub. Explore 20 centuries of Piran's history through ICT technology, animated films, and interactive presentations. The center offers a versatile cultural experience, from lectures and film screenings to concerts, contributing to Piran's vibrant cultural scene.

Parish Museum of St George - Delve into historical wonders at the Parish Museum of St. George. Housing treasures from St. George's Parish Church, the museum showcases artifacts like a silver-plated statue of St. George battling a dragon and a wooden model of the church from 1595. Uncover remnants from Ancient Rome and the Early Middle Ages in the catacombs and explore the cathedral's evolving history.

Visit Piran Lighthouse

Perched at Piran's tip, this Lighthouse on a Venetian bastion is a historic gem, showcasing coats of arms from 1617 and a 19th-century structure. Once oil-powered, now electric, it's Slovenia's sole coastal beacon, offering a 11-nautical-mile view. Explore the neo-Gothic bell tower, Slovenia's oldest, and the adjacent 18th-century Our Lady of Health Church. Don't miss the Instagrammable moment at the old lighthouse, where, on clear days, Italy comes into view. A perfect blend of history and stunning vistas!

The Piran's Mermaid

At the apex of Piran's peninsula, known as Rt Madona, stands a petite limestone sculpture of a mermaid, serving as a favored "selfie" locale (notably unsurprising). Equally intriguing are the expansive limestone boulders safeguarding the promenade and the distinctive bell tower of Our Lady of Health Church's church.

Culinary Experiences

Eat at Ladja Podlanica

This is not just a restaurant; it is a place where you can enjoy a unique experience. It doesn't happen every day that you can eat on a fishing boat. So, do not look for an address or for luxury. The couple that runs the boat/restaurant is simply amazing. The menu consists of the fresh catch of the day! Excellent pasta, sea bass, sardines, fried fish, all accompanied by superb white wine. And the prices are incredibly competitive. Call to reserve one of the few tables they have available when they are not out fishing at +386 41 338 612.

Try Istrian Food 

Although much of the Istrian peninsula belongs to Croatia, Piran is part of Istria, making it worthwhile to explore the delicious food opportunities this region has to offer. Istrian honey, Istrian olive oil, Istrian wines (Teran, Malvazija, Muškat Momjanski), Istrian cheeses, and the unique nutty and addictive taste of truffles, of which Istria is a significant producer, are all worth savoring. As you look around the peninsula on which Piran sits, one thing comes to mind—FISH. The variety of Istrian ways to prepare fish can be experienced in one of the numerous small restaurants that dot Piran.

Sip a Cup of Coffee or a Glass of Wine (depending on the time of the day)

Tartini Square is the perfect place to sit and enjoy a lovely cup of coffee while watching the locals in Piran go about their lives. Late afternoon is the ideal time to sip on an 'Aperitivo' or a glass of local wine and admire the pastel colors of the square as they deepen while night descends upon Piran. The selection of places around the square is extensive, and one that deserves mention is Žižola Bar.

Outdoor and Nature Activities

Take advantage of the marvelous Adriatic Sea

Jump into the sea on a hot afternoon and enjoy the Adriatic beaches in the proximity of Piran. The closest to the center of the town is Fornače Beach, less than a kilometer away from Tartini Square. The beach is a combination of pebbled and concrete sections, with accessible entry points for people with disabilities. Wooden terraces are available for sunbathing, and above, there are lawns with rows of stone pines providing shade for visitors on hot summer days.

On the northern side of the Piran Peninsula, you can find two more beaches. Salinera Beach has a concrete surface and is calm even during peak season, although it has to be noted that a significant part of the beach has restricted access, and its facilities are only available to nearby hotel guests. To reach Salinera Beach, you can follow the spectacular path that follows the sea on the north side of the peninsula.

Further east, Moon Bay Beach (Mesečev Zaliv) in Strunjan is considered possibly the best beach in Slovenia.

Walk the Piran promenade

This is a superb leisurely walk along the perimeter of the Piran Peninsula. It is mesmerizing to walk with the sea on one side and the history of the historical buildings on the other side. Once you reach the Punta, where you can see the Church of Our Lady of Health and the lighthouse, you can continue walking on the northern side of the peninsula. From the port of Piran to the end of the walking path on the northern side is around 800 meters, so you might end up doing it multiple times in one day to enjoy the different light and the resulting effects on both the sea and the architecture.

Walk the Piran - Fiesa footpath

Starting under St. George’s Church, this footpath allows you to explore the northern part of the peninsula, offering majestic views of the Adriatic Sea. It reaches Fiesa Beach and the homonymous small lake. For those who enjoy longer hikes, there are several options worth exploring, including continuing until you reach Strunjan Beach (just over 4 km from St. George's Church).

Walk along the coast to the town of Portorož

This should be done in one direction or the other, covering a 3.5 km coastal path from Tartini Square to the Kempinski Palace in Portorož. It offers a leisurely walk with various attractions to explore, including churches (Church of the Monastery of Saint Bernardin is a standout architectural spot), scenic viewpoints, and beaches. The focal point is the historic salt warehouses situated directly along the path, approximately midway. One of the uniquely slanted buildings has been transformed into a museum, showcasing the region's salt-making heritage. Once you reach your destination, you can opt for one of the numerous buses that connect Portorož to Piran.

Additional Experiences

Relax

It might not sound like an experience, but during the shoulder season, one of the gifts that Piran can offer is the chance to relax; the promenade seems to be crafted with the word 'relax' in mind.

Take a boat tour

Embark on an extraordinary aquatic journey with the Subaquatic motor boat – the sole vessel along the Slovene Littoral that seamlessly blends an exploration of a captivating underwater world with a breathtaking panoramic cruise. With a capacity for up to fifty passengers, twelve of whom can take turns marveling at the underwater scenery through expansive windows beneath the deck.

As you cruise along the Piran-Fiesa-Strunjan route and back, delve into the geological makeup of the sea bed, observe the rich flora and fauna of the inshore, and witness underwater overhangs and mussel plantations. This 1 hour and 30-minute excursion promises an immersive experience into the diverse marine environment.

Setting off from Piran, the boat navigates past Fiesa and Pacug, leading you to the picturesque destination of Strunjan before returning. Prices are set at €16 for adults and €10 for children up to 12 years old, offering an affordable and memorable journey exploring both the hidden wonders beneath the waves and the enchanting coastal panorama.

Scuba Diving

It seems quite logical given the location thinking about exploring the sea that embrace Piran. Piran Divers is the agency to contact in order to get the best experience in the area. Piran Divers offers a range of diving experiences suitable for all levels:

Explore Rt Madona, where the geological structure provides a safe haven for diverse marine species. With two dive options on the reef's northern and southern sides, it accommodates varying weather conditions.

Discover Piran under the Church, a site ranging from 5 to 16 meters, starting directly underneath the church in Piran. Enjoy a long dive with a gently sloping reef featuring healthy soft corals.

Dive into Fiesa Reef, popular among divers, starting at 4 meters and sloping down to 9 meters. Beyond the reef, explore the sandy bottom, encountering macro critters, small sunken boats, and vibrant marine life up to 16 meters.

For advanced divers, Maona Rossa offers a unique experience around a sunken WW2 vessel. Visits are by special request and require a minimum of four divers.

Take a walking tour

To delve deeper into Piran—its history, secret corners, food, and traditions—it's worth considering participating in a walking tour. Piran Walking Tour offers various options, including a Sunset Tour with local food and wine tasting and a Morning Tour, which starts every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 11 am. The tours are available only during the high season (May to September).

Watch the sunrise and/or sunset

Sunsets never disappoint, especially when you have a town that serves as a picturesque backdrop. The sunrise, particularly in the summer, is an experience well worth the early wake-up call.

Treat yourself with a salty spa treatment

Not properly in Piran but not very far you can treat yourself with a salry spa treatment. The Lepa Vida Thalasso SPA, situated in the northern part of the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park, offers a unique outdoor spa experience. Welcoming adults and children over 12, this spa harnesses the tradition of salt production in the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park for traditional thalassotherapy. Thalassotherapy utilizes natural products, such as salt-pan mud and brine, to provide refreshing and balancing effects on the body, boost the immune system, and enhance overall health. Set against the stunning backdrop of the salt pans, guests can choose from various treatments, making thalassotherapy an integral part of relaxation and cosmetic care. The spa operates under specific seasonal hours: OCTOBER TO MAY: CLOSED, MAY – AUGUST: 10.00 – 20.00, SEPTEMBER: 10.00 – 18.00. Additionally, the spa is open only when weather conditions are favorable.

 

Festivals in Piran

The Tartini Festival is an international summer chamber music festival dedicated to Giuseppe Tartini, the composer born in Piran. The festival features Tartini's works along with compositions by global and Slovenian artists, as well as contemporary pieces inspired by Tartini. The renowned Tartini violin is showcased, played by world-class musicians, adding to the inspiration. Special programs with exceptional European violinists are organized, including performances on the original Tartini violin held by the Maritime Museum in Piran. The concerts take place in the historical settings of Piran and Koper, allowing visitors to immerse in the rich architectural heritage. Since 2005, Il Terzo Suono, the festival's unique ensemble, performs historically accurate interpretations using baroque instruments. The festival supports the next generation of performers through the Tartini Junior program, offering a platform for young musicians from Slovenia to gain experience, accompanied by workshops and masterclasses conducted by distinguished musicians. Founded by Jasna Nadles and Milan Vrsakoj, the Tartini Festival is a celebration of music, education, and cultural heritage. The 2024 edition of the festival is taking place from August 24th to September 4th.

Where to Stay in Piran

Major platforms such as Booking.com or Airbnb are the logical way to search for accommodation in Piran. Here is a curated list of hotels where you can enjoy Piran in a special way.

Hotel Piran

Hotel Piran, positioned just five steps from the sea, offers a captivating retreat in one of Slovenia's most tourist-friendly cities. With over 2,600 hours of sunshine annually, the hotel provides a breathtaking view and boasts a rich tradition spanning more than 100 years. This makes Hotel Piran an alluring destination for travelers seeking an enchanting experience in Piran.

The hotel features 103 rooms and suites, each reflecting a blend of tradition and contemporary comfort—a perfect combination for a rejuvenating break. Guests of Hotel Piran can enjoy a restful stay surrounded by the charm of the historic surroundings.

To enhance the guest experience, the hotel provides a convenient parking solution in the Fornače parking house, situated just before the entrance to Piran. Hotel guests benefit from a guaranteed discount on parking fees when settling the payment at the Hotel Piran reception. Additionally, the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service, ensuring seamless transportation for guests from the garage to the hotel. With its prime location, traditional charm, and thoughtful amenities, Hotel Piran invites travelers to immerse themselves in the allure of this picturesque Slovenian coastal city. For more information, please check the Hotel Piran website.

Memento Bed and Breakfast Piran

Steeped in history, B&B Memento, situated just a few steps from the famous Tartini Square in Piran, has a rich and diverse heritage. The story began in 1957 when the Tomšič family moved to Bolniško ulica 8, where the B&B stands today. Initially, the building housed various ventures, including a photography studio and a video store named Šterna. Over time, the property changed hands and underwent renovations, but in 2014, Klavdija, Jak, and Anže, from the Tomšič family, reclaimed and transformed it into B&B Memento.

Now operated by the fifth generation, the B&B boasts 10 stylishly furnished rooms, each telling a unique story. Accommodation options include the Standard double room with single or double beds, Superior King, rooms with balconies, a Family suite, and a Penthouse with a balcony. All rooms feature modern amenities such as a comfortable bathroom, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and a complimentary mini bar. Some rooms offer additional perks like a terrace or balcony with a splendid view of the Church of St. George.

In the morning, guests are treated to hot drinks and delicious brioches, with the option to indulge in a hearty breakfast at selected bars in Piran. B&B Memento encapsulates the authenticity of Piran and the warmth of the house, inviting visitors to create lasting memories in this charming and historically significant establishment. For more information, please check the Memento Bed and Breakfast website.

Hotel Zala

Nestled in a serene corner of Piran's old town, Hotel Zala provides a tranquil escape just a few steps from the sea. Following a complete renovation in 2019, the hotel seamlessly combines modern comfort with the preservation of Piran's soul, offering 18 double rooms, each with its own unique story adorned with works of art by renowned Slovenian artists. The Srebrna vilica (“Silver Fork”) Restaurant and rooftop bar enhance the overall experience.

Embracing the idea of homeliness and boutique charm, Hotel Zala prioritizes guest satisfaction. Both the hotel and restaurant are wheelchair accessible, and while the hotel itself isn't reachable by car, guests can conveniently park at the Garage House Fornače and either stroll or take the free bus to Tartini Square. From there, it's a short 250-meter walk to the hotel. While reaching the city center by car is possible, the hotel recommends utilizing the bus for transporting luggage. For guests with mobility restrictions, advance notice ensures personalized assistance for a seamless stay. For more information, please check the Hotel Zala website.

Benečanka

Situated in the heart of historical Piran, Benečanka provides accommodation within a house that holds a captivating story from the Venetian Republic era. During this period of flourishing maritime trade, the wealthy Venetian merchant Del Bello fell in love with a local Piran girl. To declare his love, Del Bello built the town's most beautiful house by the harbor and town hall. However, faced with jealous gossip from fellow citizens, the couple defiantly placed a stone plaque on the house, reading: “Lasa pur dir” (Let them talk).

The accommodation features two prestigious rooms on the 2nd and 3rd floors. The Suite Del Bello, named after the Venetian merchant, comprises a foyer, a bedroom with a bathroom, and a view overlooking Tartini Square. At the house's pinnacle, the loft Margareta, named after the beauty from Piran, adds a touch of charm and history to this exceptional stay in one of Piran's most iconic and storied residences. For more information, please check the Benečanka website.

Where to Eat in Piran

Tri Vdove

Tri Vdove is an excellent choice for lunch in the charming city of Piran. The restaurant, situated on the outer road around the city, offers a delightful sea view and an opportunity to watch passers-by. The overall ambiance of the place is amazing, complemented by a courteous and respectful staff.

Gostilna Ivo

Gostilna Ivo, established in 1982, stands as a testament to tradition, consistently upholding its legacy. Renowned for its warm hospitality, enchanting flavors of home-prepared dishes, and a diverse menu, the restaurant is a welcoming haven. The commitment to using local ingredients and engaging the community underscores its dedication. Operating daily from 09:00 to 23:00, Gostilna Ivo invites guests into a realm where the magic of good food and a friendly atmosphere converge. For the menu check their website

Restaurant Pavel and Pavel 2

Situated along the Piran beachfront, the family-owned restaurants PAVEL and PAVEL 2 are in close proximity to the sea. They offer an international culinary experience with a special focus on seafood, including fish, lobster, spiny lobster, shrimp, oysters, fish carpaccio, and truffles. Your visit will be enhanced by an excellent selection of both open and bottled wines, creating a perfect blend of flavors in this charming seaside setting. For menu, contact information and pictures check their website.

When to Visit Piran

Let's have a quick look at the average temperatures and average precipitations in Piran, an analytic approach to deciding when to organize your visit.

January  - 4.3 C° - 60mm

February - 4.6 C° - 54mm

March - 7.9 C° - 62mm

April - 11.9 C° - 66mm

May - 16.9 C° - 75mm

June - 20.5 C° - 86mm

July - 22.9 C° - 56mm

August - 22.3 C° - 86mm

September - 18.1 C° - 118mm

October - 14.0 C° - 112mm

November - 9.3 C° - 106mm

December - 5.6 C° - 88mm

Source - Slovenian Environmental Agency

The best time to visit Piran, a charming coastal town in Slovenia, largely depends on your preferences for crowds and weather. The peak tourist season spans from late May through September, with the highest influx of visitors occurring during the summer months. It's essential to plan and book accommodations, tours, and other activities well in advance during this period, as Piran is a relatively small city, and popular options tend to fill up quickly.

However, if you prefer a more serene experience and wish to avoid the bustling crowds, October could be the ideal time for your visit. I personally went during this month and found it to be a delightful experience. While some activities may be limited outside the high season due to Piran's seasonal nature, you can still enjoy most of the attractions if you plan to stay for a few days.

It's worth noting the weather conditions in Piran throughout the year. January and February bring colder temperatures around 4.3°C and 4.6°C, respectively, with precipitation averaging 60mm and 54mm. As you move into spring, March sees a rise to 7.9°C with 62mm of rainfall, while April witnesses further warming to 11.9°C and 66mm of precipitation.

The weather becomes more pleasant from May onwards, with temperatures ranging from 16.9°C to 22.9°C in September. October, although slightly cooler at 14.0°C, still offers a pleasant climate for exploration with 112mm of rainfall. As you progress into the late fall and winter months, temperatures decrease, reaching 5.6°C in December, accompanied by 88mm of precipitation.

In summary, for a balance between favorable weather and fewer crowds, October emerges as a prime choice for a visit to Piran. However, if you're drawn to the vibrant atmosphere of the high season, planning your trip between late May and September would be the most suitable option.

How to Get to Piran

The best approach is to arrive in Piran without relying on public transport. You can reach the town by car or motorbike, either as part of a larger journey in Istria or, why not, the Balkans. Alternatively, consider arriving by bicycle and enjoy the lovely and quiet roads of inner Istria or approach from the north through the Julian Alps. For those traveling with motorized vehicles, here is a small guide on where to park and information about the fees (please note that prices can change, so it's advisable to double-check through the official Piran municipality website).

When visiting the picturesque town of Piran, it's essential to plan your parking ahead to ensure a hassle-free experience. Piran offers various parking options, each catering to different preferences and durations. Here's a summary of the parking facilities and their respective price lists:

1. Garage Arze:

   • Parking rate per hour (up to 10 hours): €1.50
   • Daily parking (from 10 hours): €15.00
   • Weekly parking: €90.00
   • Monthly parking: €120.00

2. Parking by at the Garage Arze:

   • Parking rate per hour (up to 10 hours): €1.30
   • Daily parking (from 10 hours): €13.00

3. Garage Amphore (In Fornače):

   • 1 hour (up to 10 hours): €2.60
   • Daily parking (from 10 hours): €26.00

Whether you're planning a short visit or an extended stay, these parking options provide flexibility to suit your needs. Garage Arze, with its hourly and daily rates, offers convenience for various durations. If you prefer a slightly lower rate, the adjacent Parking by at the Garage Arze is a viable alternative.

For those exploring the town's charming corners over a full day or more, Garage Amphore in Fornače provides an option with a different price structure. Make sure to choose the parking facility that aligns with your itinerary and enjoy your time in Piran without worrying about parking logistics.

If you are relying on public transport, here are a few options

Ljubljana - Piran: daily morning buses cover this route taking approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. The timetable of the Ljubljana Bus Station can come in handy.

Trieste - Piran: not a bad idea to leave the port city of Trieste and get to Piran to slow down a little. From Trieste, FlixBus operates several bus that stop at Portorož from where you can take a local bus to get Piran.

Croatian towns in Istria - Pula, Rovinj, Rijeka - are all easily reachable by local transport, which runs more frequently during the high season from May to September. Check the bus company Arriva Slovenia or Arriva Croatia to get more information.

The Sea Option from Venice or from Porec (Croatia) is worth considering, especially during the summer. Venezia Lines operates a ferry service once a week from Piran in the high season. Unfortunately, this route is not available during the low season. The journey time for this picturesque voyage is approximately 3 hours, offering a delightful experience for travelers. The foot passenger ticket is priced at 65 Euro, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore the scenic coastal destinations of Rovinj, Porec, Piran, and Venice.

It's important to note that the entire ferry route departs from Rovinj and returns from Venice (Venezia), with stops at Porec and Piran along the way. This journey allows passengers to explore various destinations, spanning the Croatian mainland, Slovenia, and Italy. Keep in mind that the ferry, named San Frangisk / San Pawl, is exclusively for foot passengers, and cars are not permitted on board. However, both pets and bikes are welcome, adding to the flexibility and accessibility of this sea travel option.

Facts and Curiosity about Piran

- Physician Peter Bossman, who arrived from Ghana in the late 1970s, was elected as the Mayor of Piran on 24 October 2010, making Slovenia the first country in former communist Europe to elect a black mayor.

- The inaugural trolleybus line in the Balkans commenced public service on October 24, 1909, in Piran. However, in 1912, it was substituted with a tramway that continued along the same route until 1953.

- The town is famous for its salt, with saltmakers playing a prominent role in its economy. Piran celebrates its salt heritage several times a year with salt festivals, where artisans sell salt, wine, olive oil, and other products, and performers showcase Slovenian culture through dance and music.

- Euro-Mediterranean University: Piran is the seat of the Euro-Mediterranean University of Slovenia (EMUNI), founded in 2008 as one of the cultural projects. The university is a significant institution for cultural and educational initiatives in the region

- The municipality of Piran is divided into 15 settlements (naselja) with the following inhabitants: Bužini (Busin), Dragonja (Dragogna): 296, Lucija (Lucia): 5,792, Mlini (Mulini), Nova vas (Villanova): 193, Padna (Padenza): 156, Parecag (Parezzago): 910, Piran (Pirano), municipal seat: 5,267, Portorož (Portorose): 2,849, Seča, (Sezza): 942, Sečovlje (Sicciole): 584, Strunjan (Strugnano): 564, Sveti Peter (San Pietro dell'Amata): 329, Škodelin (Scudelin), Škrile (Scrile)

- Piran is a bilingual municipality, boasting a diverse linguistic landscape with Slovenian and Italian as its official languages. The population includes speakers of Croatian, Italian, Serbo-Croatian, and Slovenian, with Slovenian being the predominant mother tongue at 66.70%. The official status of Italian extends to Piran and several settlements, enriching the cultural and linguistic fabric of this vibrant coastal community.

Day Trips Piran

After you have soaked up the sweet atmosphere of the Adriatic capital of Slovenia, it's time to move around a little. Some of the following destinations can be reached by walking or biking, while others require a vehicle or a bus ride.

Explore the Landscape Park Strunjan

The Strunjan Peninsula, recognized as the only state-level protected area in Slovenia including the sea, offers a diverse landscape with active salt pans, a lagoon, and unique flysch cliffs. Established in 1990 and managed by the Landscape Park Strunjan public institute since 2008, the park invites visitors to explore its natural and cultural heritage, promoting conservation efforts and community development. Visit Landscape Park Strunjan for its unique and diverse environment, including active salt pans, a lagoon, and geologically fascinating flysch cliffs, providing a rich experience of natural and cultural heritage along the Adriatic coast.

Visit Koper and Izola

One reason to visit Izola is to enjoy its peaceful and less crowded atmosphere, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic experience. The town is known for its Venetian charm, large marina, narrow old winding streets, and excellent restaurants and bars.

As for Koper, it is worth visiting for its well-preserved old town with narrow cobbled streets, cute cafes, and a beautiful square with a bell tower that offers amazing views. Additionally, Koper is the biggest seaside city in Slovenia and has a small beach right in the center of the town with all the necessary infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth visiting Piran?

Yes, Yes and Yes. Piran is a gem on the Adriatic coast, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, seaside beauty, and culinary delights. The unique charm and variety of experiences make it unquestionably worth a visit.

What is Piran famous for?

Piran is famous for Giuseppe Tartini an Italian composer and violinist from Piran in the Republic of Venice Tartini's prolific career saw him compose over a hundred pieces for the violin, with a significant focus on violin concertos. His enduring legacy is often associated with his renowned work, the Violin Sonata in G Minor, commonly known as the Devil's Trill Sonata. Piran is also famous for salt. Piran owes its growth to the significance of salt. The Piran salt pans, employing time-honored techniques, continue to produce world-class fleur de sel (flower of salt). These salt pans played a crucial role in the flourishing of the picturesque Mediterranean walled town, with its iconic church, cultural attractions, and scenic views. A common Slovenian saying goes, "Piran is made of salt." Internationally renowned, Piran is celebrated for its salt, highly prized by chefs for its distinctive texture.

How much time do you need in Piran?

One full day, if you are in a rush, can be enough. However, chances are that once you set foot in Piran, you might want to extend your visit—perhaps to spend some time exploring the surrounding area or to enjoy multiple tours of this lovely town, stopping at a different cafe or restaurant each day.

Is one day in Piran enough?

Yes, you can see the main attractions of Piran in one full day. The distances between the main points of interest in Piran are not extensive, so you can easily arrive in the town by mid-morning. Visit the main square, enjoy a view from the Church of St. George, stroll along the promenade, relax at one of the many nice restaurants, and explore a museum before sunset.

Can you swim in Piran?

Absolutely, Fornače Beach, located on the way toward Portoroz, is the closest to the center of the town.

What to do in Piran when it rains?

Piran has a good selection of museums: Maritime Museum - Pomorski Muzej, Magical World of Shells Museum - Muzej školjk, Tartini House, Mediadom Pyrhani, Parish Museum of St George. Opting to spend an extended period in a cafe, switching from coffee to Malvazija, is also a delightful choice.

How far is it from Venice to Piran?

By boat, the distance is approximately 103 kilometers, while by car through the E70, it's about 203 kilometers.

Should I stay in Piran or Izola?

Izola is a smaller town, consequently less busy during the high season, and also less expensive. Piran, with its charm, comes with higher prices and a larger crowd. If you don't have much time, it's probably worth spending the extra money to stay right in the heart of the pearl of the Slovenian Adriatic coast.

Is Piran busy in summer?

Yes, it can be busy, but if you're coming from other popular locations in nearby Croatia (such as Dubrovnik or Rovinj, just to mention two), you might find Piran surprisingly quiet. The weekends, especially in the summer, are likely the busiest due to day-trippers from Italy and local Slovenian tourists.

Can you drink tap water in Piran?

Absolutely, there are no problems with drinking tap water in Piran, and during the hot summer months, you'll find it especially refreshing.

Piran Map - Slovenia

Explore Piran, Slovenia, like never before with our interactive map. Search by people connected to Piran, significant dates, specific words, point of interest names, user-posted questions, and categories. Delve into the city's rich history, culture, and attractions seamlessly. Discover hidden gems and navigate effortlessly through Piran's enchanting streets. Whether you're a history buff, a curious traveler, or a local enthusiast, our map provides an engaging and professional tool to enhance your exploration. Unlock Piran's secrets and embark on a memorable journey.