From 12 to 28 September in selected restaurants in Izola.

In this episode of the Whispers of Izola podcast, we stopped at a very special culinary event – the , which on the 21st of June once again brought Izola to life with a blend of local delicacies, wines, seafood specialties and authentic stories. This episode was co-created by Luca Stančič Kodarin, author of the Whispers of Izola series, and Jan Veljak, a local radio voice and opera singer. Together, with smiles, a touch of charm and plenty of authenticity, they searched for (and found!) the real flavours of summer among winemakers, chefs and organisers. Guests of the episode: Tourist Board Izola: Director Dean Kocjančič and communications specialist Tjaša Likar shared how the Pier of tastes was created, why gastronomy is a strategic development focus, and why today, Izola is considered one of the most authentic gastronomic destinations in Slovenian Istria. They also spoke about visitors and future plans. : a team of three friends bringing fresh oysters straight to the streets – with elegance and a genuine love for the sea. Their “mobile oyster bar” has become a hit at events across Slovenian Istria and beyond. They made their first public appearance precisely at the Pier of tastes. Mitja Glavič also gave us a tip on which sparkling wine pairs best with oysters. : young winemaker from Izola, Tina Markovič follows her vision – in nature, with nature. Markovič wines are gentle, lively and full of character. Besides wine, Tina is also a great storyteller – about the family farm, the views of Izola and the life of a winemaker today. She has been part of the Pier of tastes team practically from the very beginning, so she also shared with us some special anecdotes from past editions. : a liqueur brand born out of love for limoncello. Kristina and Luka Šik put a piece of Amalfi into every bottle, the place where they fell in love with this drink. They use local lemons and also offer other flavours. Luka revealed how it all started and how surprisingly well limoncello pairs with truffles. Adriana Madrid is a Colombian chef who creates surprising fusions between Colombian and Italian cuisine in Slovenian Istria. She runs cooking workshops and pop-up dinners where food becomes a tool for cultural exchange. Her heart beats for Italy – and now also for Izola. Hear her impressions from the Pier of tastes, where she participated for the first time, in this episode. : Tine Sukič from nearby Koper told us how a family inn can become beloved by both locals and tourists. At Pri Tinetu they don’t just offer good food, but also a sense of homeliness, locality and constant culinary exploration. Why they often sell out their offer on the pier and how the team of “pierfolk” gets along, you’ll discover in the conversation! At the end, we asked each guest two fun questions, which we also captured in a special reel – check out our channels and have a laugh with us! The episode is already available on all major platforms and at – tune in!

The young winemaker Tina builds a wine story that is not based only on vines, but on relationships – with the land, with people, and with Izola. Together with her husband Denis, she has created the brand and runs the family estate, where wines are made with great dedication, precision, and respect for nature. What they do is not just viticulture, but a conscious choice – and a connection with a place that keeps calling them back.  

Izola enchants with the scent of the sea, its picturesque streets, and the charm of a former fishing town. But those who take the time to explore its countryside will discover much more – authentic stories, breathtaking views, and the true flavors of Istria. Today, we invite you to venture there – into the rural heart of Izola, where nature speaks for itself, locals uphold their traditions, and produce outstanding olive oils and wines that add an essential touch to Istrian cuisine.  

Where Istrian flavors meet the sea Join us at the Pier of Tastes, an outdoor culinary event held several times a year on the North pier in Izola. The event takes place in an idyllic setting, offering breathtaking view of Izola’s popular Svetilnik (Lighthouse) and Bele skale (White Rocks) beaches, offering you a one-stop experience of authentic local cuisine. See you next time on 20 September 2025! Joining us will be: Altroke, Biradiski, Di Kappa Tartufi, Fogy-tartufi, Gin Brin, Golden Ring Cheese, Gorki Chili, Gostilnica Gušt, Gostilnica Pri Tinetu, Karavna Zvon, Limoni Šik, Nori Sushi, Ribja osmica Arrigoni, Santomas, Sparkling Oysters, Športno, kulturno društvo Šared, Turistično in kulturo društvo Šparžin, Vina Markovič, Vina Zaro Mark your calendar for the final Pier of tastes of this season, taking place on 18 October 2025.

Enjoy a carefree train ride and experience Izola differently. You won't have to worry about where to park your car and you'll do something good for the environment. Are you wondering where else it can take you and what you can experience along the way?

Best moments at sea?»When you pull up the net full of fish,« says Sandi. And the hardest? »When the net is empty. Or even worse—when it’s torn.« Today, fishing faces many challenges, such as declining fish stocks, changing weather patterns, sea pollution, and bureaucratic hurdles. »Back in the day, you went out to sea to fish. Now, you have to turn on two computers and record everything, document it all. You spend more time on paperwork than on the water,« Sandi explains. They sell their fish at the Trieste fish market, to local fishmongers, and to selected restaurants such as Bujol and Sidro. But the fishermen all agree: the best thing would be to set up a table on the pier every day and sell the daily catch directly to people. »From the sea to the plate—that’s the way it should be,« says Sandi.

Hey hey, travelers, explorers, and all those always on the hunt for new experiences!Izola is so much more than you think: from mysterious streets where you can uncover the stories of the old town, to chill-out bars, concerts, parties, and vintage shops. And if you want to make the memories of this sweet coastal town last forever, keep reading! Let’s gooo!  

With the Locals When we can see the city of Izola embraced in nature, surrounded by the scent of local olive oil, grapes, and wine, and when friendly locals give us a warm welcome ... that's when we know: we're in the countryside of Izola. What to do in this green Istrian oasis? You can find some ideas below. You can explore the places on your own or choose a unique adventure: “Experience the countryside of Izola with a local”. It is said that everything is better in good company and we agree, how about you?