During the winter months, Izola is illuminated with festive lights that infuse the town with holiday spirit. Izola becomes an Ice Island, offering something for everyone. Visit us between 3 December 2023 and 21 January 2024.
Delicious seafood, authentic Istrian flavours, the tastiest fish soup and a relaxed ambiance; you can get all this and much more in Sonja Restaurant in Simonov zaliv bay in Izola. Years ago, Dušan Brkič took over the family restaurant, and brought the gourmet experience up a notch. We spoke to him for the final culinary story this year.
Izola may be renowned for its diverse array of bathing areas, but its walking trails are just as diverse and worth exploring. Long trails, short trails, rural, hillside, seaside, leading you through nature parks, or along the route of the former Parenzana railway... Izola's walking trails will amaze you in all seasons and weather conditions, with the exception of extreme heat or severe storms. Find out more about our five favourite hiking trails and be sure to come check them out soon.
Thanks to the temperate climate, you can enjoy cycling in Slovenian Istria all year round. We have compiled some recommendations for cycling trails.
Izola views are viewpoints that will take your breath away, allow you to create unforgettable photographs (with your loved ones or by yourself), and leave a magical lasting impression of Izola. In good weather, most of these spots offer a view of Izola in the embrace of beautiful alpine mountains, with our highest peak of Mount Triglav among them. Not to mention the magical sunsets …
The seaside is a great place to visit at any time of the year. Here are 10 ideas to help you plan a trip or holiday at the seaside, whether it's winter, spring or autumn. We've put together some great suggestions for those who enjoy wining and dining, those who prefer to stay active and explore, and those who just want a relaxing getaway from everyday life.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE GAME
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Culinary experience
Discover moreDelicious seafood, authentic Istrian flavours, the tastiest fish soup and a relaxed ambiance; you can get all this and much more in Sonja Restaurant in Simonov zaliv bay in Izola. Years ago, Dušan Brkič took over the family restaurant, and brought the gourmet experience up a notch. We spoke to him for the final culinary story this year.
The proximity of the fertile lands provide for a unique blend of Istrian and maritime cuisine. The traditional dishes of the rural outskirts are based on homegrown produce, thriving among the vineyards and olive groves, while the seaside cuisine relies on fish and molluscs. Local homegrown produce is also sold at the farmer’s market during summer. Enjoy the many flavours of Izola!
Ingredients for 4 people1 kg cod500 g polenta1 onion2 cloves of garlic400 g diced tomatoesextra virgin olive oilsalt and pepper to taste5 dl white wine PreparationHeat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat, add the chopped onion and garlic, and fry until golden and fragrant. Add the cod pieces and fry briefly. Add the diced tomatoes to the pan, season with salt and pepper, add some white wine and simmer the sauce for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavours to combine. Bring salted water to a boil and add the polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Pour the cooked mixture in...
Visit Izolana - House of the Sea and discover the rich stories of Izola's heritage. 35 ship models, a real fishing boat, a game of catching fish, a projection of the development of the former island town on a 3D model... Tempting, isn't it? The contents of the museum are interactive and will delight both you and your little ones!
Mojca and Klemen were exploring Izola at the start of the summer. We – the locals – secretly observed them. We were happy when we ran into them in the alleys, on the beaches and even in the countryside. However, they didn’t know how to handle some situations, so we figured they needed our help. After all, we know best how to enjoy Izola to the fullest and take care of our town to keep it beautiful and authentic for future generations. We had a lot of fun helping them, that’s why we decided to share some stories with you. The stories reveal some green tips for a carefree and relaxing su...
We shouldn't organize a picnic, but we can enjoy some delicious food
Do you feel like having a glass of excellent water?
There is no need for radios, speakers or phones in nature
Don’t hop over fences, come on over to the market “Stuff from my field!”
“I can sit on top of a hill and talk about how I feel …”
Is the nature in Izola a free-for-all toilet?
Can seashells become souvenirs? THE LOCALS SAY: »Let life in the sea flow at its own pace.« We can pick up things that are washed ashore, but we mustn't disturb the seabed. We all know that pebbles and seashells are beautiful and we would love to look at them at home, but don't worry – we have some suggestions for finding a perfect souvenir to keep a piece of Izola with you every day of the year!
Visiting the town center by car – yes, or no? THE LOCALS SAY: » We recommend parking the cars in the peripheral parking lots and taking a walk. « Due to its location, the center of Izola is easily accessible from anywhere. One of the great advantages of Izola is that you can get practically anywhere on foot. A great way of avoiding traffic jams and bad mood is parking in one of the parking lots outside the town center and simply taking a walk. If you are not a fan of walking, you can opt for a bike or a scooter. You can also take a sea taxi to one of the nearby cities.
