Best things to do in Portorož-Piran & Slovenian Istria

Head to Portorož Beach for a leisurely stroll along the sea and terrific views of Piran. Lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, this area is less of a beach and more of a promenade that stretches for miles along the coast. Paved with concrete or covered with rocks, it provides opportunities for strolling and sunbathing in a safe family atmosphere. Only a small passage leading into the water in the middle part of the beach is covered with sand. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are available for rent. Note that you should wear beach shoes even in the water, and watch for cyclists on the path.

Sitting close to the water's edge, paved with white marble and surrounded by elegant 19th-century buildings, Tartini Square serves as the largest square in town and a hub of activity. The square was part of the harbor until 1894, when it was filled in and mounted with a statue of violinist and composer Giuseppe Tartini, after whom the square is named. Most of the buildings are older than the square itself; be sure to look for the Gothic house, the only building that has preserved its original exterior. The square's distinctive oval shape comes from the time when it served as an electric railway station; today it's a pedestrianized zone. Relax with a beer, have a bite of pizza or pastry at one of the outdoor cafes, and watch the locals go about their daily lives.

Put one euro in the locked gate to access the stairs and climb to the top of Walls of Piran, offering views of the city and the sea. The three walls were built during the town's long history, and large parts remain well-preserved today. See the ruins of the first wall from the 7th century in the old part of the town. The third wall with its seven towers built between 1470 and 1533 is almost completely intact. As you explore the walls, look for the oldest of the eight city entrances or "gates," which dates back to the 13th century. Among other gates, pay attention to the city's best-preserved Gothic doors, constructed in 1483 by mayor Dolfin.

Standing on a small hill reinforced with stone arches, St. George's Church dominates the town center. The present cathedral was built in the 14th century, but its Baroque facade dates from 1637. Legend has it that at the end of the 16th century Saint George blinded the skeptical mayor in order to motivate the citizens to restore the decaying church. Among the rich interior decoration, keep an eye out for a large medieval Gothic crucifix, a small silver-plated sculpture of St. George, and a Roman sarcophagus converted into a baptismal font. From the 46 m (150 ft) bell tower, a smaller copy of the Venetian San Marco Campanile, you can see panoramas of the Slovenian, Croatian, and Italian coast, and sometimes as far as the Julian Alps.

See one of Slovenia's oldest bells and take in excellent views of the bay at Koper Cathedral and Bell Tower, whose simple exterior with Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements belies a luxurious Baroque interior. A large oval window above the main portal dominates the facade plated with white marble. Built in the 12th century, the church and the tower were restored on several occasions. The four-story tower holds a bell from 1333; for a small fee you can climb to the upper terrace and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. Admire the 18th-century Venetian-style frescoes adorning the interior walls of the church, and behind the altar don't miss the 14th-century chiseled sarcophagus of St. Nazarius, featuring the image of the bishop on the lid.

The only venue of its kind in Slovenia, Magical World of Shells Museum features more than 4,000 specimens of rare and unusual mollusks. You'll see one of the biggest clams in the world, pearls, sea urchins, crabs, sea stars, and much more. The interactive museum is a highly informative attraction designed to promote environmental awareness and teach visitors about the importance of conservation. With a constantly expanding collection, you'll always see something new there, no matter how many times you visit.

Get your dose of excitement and adrenaline by going scuba and snorkeling in Piran. Guided experiences range from two to three hours and provide a way for you to experience the underwater treasures of the country. Operators and local dive schools often provide classes for beginners and can help you take your first few breaths underwater. If you are already an old pro, take a refresher course, or look for a company that provides fun dive trips for certified divers.

See the country's coastline from Strunjan Nature Reserve. You'll have a chance to see one of the longest stretches of unspoiled Adriatic coastline there, with areas featuring important geologic formations, as well as plant and animal life. In this sunny area, you can enjoy the beaches, walk, hike, cycle, or just enjoy the sounds of nature all around.