Europe’s most-loved holiday destinations are popular for a reason, but this also often makes them expensive and crowded.
New data shows Britons are searching for a charming seaside town that could be a more affordable alternative to some of the biggest Mediterranean spots.
Koper is a little-known seaside town that spent more than five centuries under the Venetian Republic, and that Italian influence is still everywhere — think Gothic palaces, elegant piazzas and winding cobblestone lanes packed with cafés.
If you’re dreaming of Venetian charm for less, the best alternative is hiding on Slovenia’s Adriatic coast.
Read Also: Madeleine McCann suspect faces retrial over rape and could be jailed for life
A pint of local beer will set you back just £3, while a glass of Slovenian wine costs around £3.50.
The town’s historic heart is packed with landmarks worth exploring. Tito Square sits at the centre, alongside the stunning Praetorian Palace and the Cathedral of the Assumption, whose bell tower gives you sweeping views right across the Slovenian coastline and out over the Adriatic.
Local food is also worth trying. Specialities include fuži, an Istrian pasta that’s often paired with truffle sauce, alongside fresh Adriatic seafood like octopus and sea bass. There’s also pršut, a Slovenian take on cured ham that locals love to enjoy with regional wines.
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
- We tried Lumo’s new train offering direct route from London to a historic UK city for less than £30
- British beauty spot with Blue Flag status named the UK’s best beach — top 10
- TUI launches new flights to under-the-radar sunshine island with 34°C summers
The destination is becoming more popular, which makes now a great time to go and beat the crowds. Marella Cruises, TUI’s all-inclusive cruise line, has reported a 39 per cent jump in Google clicks for search terms related to Koper cruises.
The cruise port is just a five-minute stroll from the town centre, making it an easy-to-explore option.
Koper also works as a perfect launchpad for discovering more of Slovenia’s gorgeous coastline.
Just half an hour by taxi, you’ll find Piran. This is a picture-perfect coastal town famous for its own Venetian architecture, brightly coloured buildings and stunning panoramic views stretching across the Adriatic Sea.
Destinations services manager at Marella Cruises, Ped Vojvodic, said: “Koper is one of the Adriatic’s best-kept secrets. While many travellers have heard of Venice, fewer know about Slovenia’s beautiful coastline.
“Koper combines fascinating history, stunning architecture, great local food and drink and easy access to nearby coastal gems such as Piran, making it a fantastic destination for customers looking to discover somewhere different.”
For anyone after a Mediterranean escape that won’t break the bank, this under-the-radar Slovenian gem is well worth putting on the list.
Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
