Cultural experiences of historic towns

History and culture go well together. Add in a touch of modern urban atmosphere and it creates a wonderful cultural cocktail, which you can enjoy by attending the events as part of FEST MEST, Slovenia's longest festival. In addition to the cultural rainbow of events linking the towns and cities together, there are also interesting experiences and food-centred treats.

FEST MEST – a year-round festival

Each town has its own character and culture, which reflects its history and brings its streets and squares to life. Elements of the cultural life of 21 historic towns and cities, highlighting their unique character, are brought together in the rich and varied programme of Fest Mest. The foundations for the festival were already laid by the cultural and gastronomic programme, with which the Association of Historical Cities of Slovenia celebrated its 20th anniversary. Fest Mest transcends time and place, stretching over the whole year, or, to be precise, as far as into 2024. The festival also has a strong connecting role, linking different historic towns and cities through culture, art and cuisine.

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fest mest kulturni dogodki

FEST 21 cultural events and experiences

Discover FEST MEST events that connect historical towns and cities through the prism of culture and art. You can enjoy comedy and drama, big bands, rockers, jazz musicians and chansonniers.



fest mest gastronomija

FEST 21 restaurants and chefs

FEST MEST includes not only a multitude of cultural events, but also a range of restaurants to choose from. 21 restaurants open their doors to gastronomic experiences in Slovenia's historical towns and cities hosting cultural events. Meet the FEST MEST chefs, let your imagination run wild and pair dishes with top Slovenian wines. Explore the flavours of Slovenia, from žlikrofi to bržola and from trout to pogača.

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fest mest dozivetja

21 historical towns and ideas for trips

FEST MEST can be a handy "excuse" to travel or go on sightseeing trips around Slovenia, when you can discover picturesque squares and streets, ancient stories and a modern vibe between lunch and evening events or as a morning overture to the afternoon action. Find out which towns are organising free guided tours for FEST MEST. Discover everything from underground cellars to underground tunnels, from the Alps to the Mediterranean, from the Pannonian plains to rolling vineyards. Explore 21 ideas for excursions from Ptuj to Piran and set out to explore Slovenia's historic towns. 

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Tips for exploring historic towns

Follow your curiosity and explore Slovenian historic towns. Discover tales from the past and tie in the modern culinary, cultural, family and fun experiences.

Tales of medieval castles

Slovenian historic towns are a treasure trove of tales from medieval and modern times alike. They are hidden behind the walls of mighty castles and manors, carved into town fortifications and walls. If you listen carefully, your mind can wander off to the times of noblemen and serfs, and experience life in towns and castles.

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Tales of medieval castles

Tales of medieval castles

Slovenian historic towns are a treasure trove of tales from medieval and modern times alike. They are hidden behind the walls of mighty castles and manors, carved into town fortifications and walls. If you listen carefully, your mind can wander off to the times of noblemen and serfs, and experience life in towns and castles.

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A family stroll through history

A family stroll through history

Fill your family photo album with unforgettable memories and experiences from Slovenian historic towns. Captivating adventures are waiting for you, where the past and the present meet, where myths and legends stir your imagination and where fairy tales can, at least in part, come true.

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Wine Towns

Wine Towns

Follow the rich wine tradition of historic towns in the wine-producing regions. Discover special local wines and compelling wine stories.

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Viewpoints of historical towns

Viewpoints of historical towns

Discover the most beautiful spots of the towns and cities, offering the best panoramic views of the streets and squares and their surroundings. The kind of spots that you won't necessarily need to change clothes or dress up for, as they are accessible directly from the city centres. Whether it's church spires, defence towers or hills in the middle of towns, climb above the skyline and enjoy the view.

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Forma viva - Open-air art

Forma viva - Open-air art

Enter into art galleries without walls, with no doors or windows, and with only the heavens for a roof. Take a look at the forma viva sculptures, living art in public spaces, which have inspired artists all over the world. Stroll among paintings and photos exhibited in squares, streets, parks and avenues.

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Major festivals and events in historic towns

You can experience the cultural atmosphere of the historic towns at many festivals. Explore some of the biggest and most popular festivals and events you have to add to your wish list.

Cultural experiences all around you

Find your favourite corner of Slovenia for culture, and treat yourself. With a wide array of musical, performing and other festivals, you will be able to experience the lively cultural atmosphere, while you will learn about the life and character of Slovenians through museum and art collections.

Music festivals

You can enjoy the work of some of the most important creators and performers from all over the world if you visit festivals in Slovenia.

Music festivals

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Performance and visual arts

Visit festivals where you can enjoy the best local and world productions in the field of theatre, film, dance, and multimedia creativity.

Performance and visual arts

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Galleries and museums

Museums and galleries in Slovenia – a treasure trove of art from prehistoric times until today.

Galleries and museums

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Ethnological festivals

Learn about life as it once was and as it is now at the most well-known ethnological festivals.

Ethnological festivals

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Castles

Slovenia is full of castles, manors, fortresses, and fortification systems.

Castles

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Arts and Culture

Slovenia boasts a rich cultural tradition.

Arts and Culture

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