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A culinary journey through historic towns

Gastronomic offering of historical cities is a top-level journey through traditional flavours that in certain places flirt with haute cuisine. It's finger-licking good!

One eats well in historical cities

Do you know about the most recognisable traditional dishes in historical cities? Do you know that praise for their gastronomic offering reaches beyond borders? And that culinary masterpieces full of talent, originality and inspiration have also impressed the famous Michelin Guide? Yes, as you stroll through Slovenian historical cities, you will certainly eat well. Traditional and modern.

The fish supplier is bringing fresh fish, and the chef is waiting for him at the restaurant entrance.

Haute cuisine in Michelin-starred restaurants

The fact that Michelin stars also shine on the Slovenian sky is proof that we have a top-level and quality gastronomic offering. Slovenian chefs draw on tradition and local produce to create their dishes, working closely with the country's world-renowned winemakers. Exceptional gastronomic experiences also await you in historical cities that present the bearers of prestigious Michelin labels.

Michelin-starred restaurants in Slovenia

Michelin stars

When you're craving an exquisite culinary treat after exploring Slovenia's historic towns, step into a Michelin-starred restaurant. Treat yourself to a delicious tasting menu right in the heart of Radovljica's old town, enjoy a unique culinary experience in a "gallery" or castle setting just a short drive from Celje, or stroll from the historic town of Piran to the nearest Michelin-starred restaurant in Portorož.

Logotip Michelin Guide.

Contemporary seafood dish with slices of salmon, orange roe, green cream accents, and edible flowers in an elegant bowl.

Restaurants with a Bib Gourmand label

Several historic towns and their surroundings are home to restaurants that have been awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for offering excellent value for money.

Logotip Bib Gourmand z napisom Michelin Guide.

Where can you enjoy some culinary delights recommended by the Michelin Guide?

Putting a culinary cherry on top of your visit to one of the historical towns, you can go to one of the restaurants featured in the prestigious Michelin Guide. Treat yourself to a plate of superb culinary delights.

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Kenda Manor, Idrija

Kenda Manor, Idrija

The kitchen of Kenda Manor creates dishes made by tested old recipes, from fresh ingredients provided by the local environment.

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Osteria Debeluh

Osteria Debeluh

Osteria Debeluh, which boasts the Plate Michelin label and four Gault&Millau hats, will pamper you with delicious local dishes prepared in a modern way.

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Kogo, Koper

Kogo, Koper

Kogo, the Istrian word for cook, serves up a contemporary culinary experience where local flavours, creativity, and modern interior design come together in perfect harmony.

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Srebrna vilica, Piran

Srebrna vilica, Piran

Watch the chefs at work as they craft exquisite Mediterranean dishes using characteristic Istrian ingredients and the freshest seafood at Hotel Zala's restaurant in Piran.

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Otočec Castle

Otočec Castle

The romantic atmosphere of a unique castle on an island in the river Krka is excellently complemented by culinary masterpieces by chef Nejc Ban. Genuine flavours intertwined with tradition and creativity is in the pride of Otočec.

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Gostilna Vovko, Novo mesto

Gostilna Vovko, Novo mesto

This family-run restaurant elevates the culinary tradition of Dolenjska to a whole new level, delighting your palate.

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Gostilnica Barba, Novo mesto

Gostilnica Barba, Novo mesto

Discover a modern take on Dolenjska cuisine, crafted with local ingredients and creative flavours at Gostilnica Barba in Novo Mesto.

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Krištof Restaurant

Krištof Restaurant

Krištof Restaurant, which has been awarded the Michelin Plate and Michelin Green Star labels, will delight you with haute cuisine dishes.

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Rizibizi, Portorož

Rizibizi, Portorož

Indulge in sea bass from Piran, truffles, and the finest produce from the sea and the inland areas of Istria at Rizibizi in Portorož, where every dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate.

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Salicornia, Koper

Salicornia, Koper

At Salicornia in Koper, you can enjoy a unique fusion of Adriatic and Istrian flavours, with seafood paired with fine Istrian wines.

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Restaurant A3, Rajhenburg Castle

Restaurant A3, Rajhenburg Castle

Take on the role of a modern-day noble and enjoy a meal at Restaurant A3 in Rajhenburg Castle. Surrender to a culinary experience that pays homage to the castle's history and the local tradition of fish farming.

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Sophia, Portorož

Sophia, Portorož

Located inside the Palace Hotel in Portorož, the Sophia restaurant delights guests with its Sophia Loren-inspired elegance and its Mediterranean cuisine, combining local ingredients with global flavours.

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Stara Gostilna, Piran

Stara Gostilna, Piran

Do not be confused by the name – Stara Gostilna (Old Restaurant) is home to top-level modern culinary art. Experience an unforgettable spectacle in an intimate Mediterranean ambience that will stir your senses.

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Restaurant Hiša Fink, Novo mesto

Restaurant Hiša Fink, Novo mesto

In the pleasant romantic restaurant you will enjoy the view of the river Krka, while your taste buds will enjoy every bite of the delicious meals that hide the traditional soul of Dolenjska in them.

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Vila Podvin, Radovljica

Vila Podvin, Radovljica

Vila Podvin's cuisine combines selected seasonal ingredients with flavours from the sea, the forest, and the Alpine world, putting a unique twist on tradition to create an unforgettable dining experience.

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A hand places a plate of meat in sauce, roasted potatoes, grain garnish, and fresh herbs on a white tablecloth, alongside a bowl of green salad.

Taste the traditional

At the crossroads of various influences, from the fertile soil and riches of nature that are virtually at your fingertips, traditional dishes have been created in the Slovenian lands for centuries. Today, Slovenia is divided into 24 gastronomic regions that are characterised by distinctive foodstuffs, dishes and drinks. You can also taste dishes characteristic of individual areas in historical cities.

Discover the flavours of Slovenia

The traditional flavours of Slovenia's towns: so unique, you simply must try them!

As well as regional and destination-specific dishes, some towns have their own specialities that are impossible to resist. Tasting them allows you to experience the distinct character and history of each place. If you fall in love with the flavours, you can even try recreating the dishes in your own kitchen back home!

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Cviček

Cviček

This is a unique wine from the Dolenjska region is made from at least four grape varieties, with red varieties taking centre stage. It has a characteristic light red colour, a fresh, slightly tart taste and a low alcohol content.

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Idrija žlikrofi

Idrija žlikrofi

This traditional dish from Idrija, originally eaten by miners, consists of small dumplings made from dough and a potato filling. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or as a savoury side. They bear the Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) label.

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Fritaja

Fritaja

This classic Istrian egg dish, fritaja is one of the most distinctive flavours of Koper and Piran. Although it can be made with various ingredients, the most famous version is the wild asparagus fritaja.

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Slovenske Konjice ocvirkovka

Slovenske Konjice ocvirkovka

Although some might think that this is a special type of potica, in the Slovenske Konjice area ocvirkovka (pork rind pie) is prepared in a completely different and simpler way.

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Tržič flika

Tržič flika

This round, flatbread is made from rolled, leavened dough and is topped with a spread made from either sour cream and caraway seeds or minced lard. It is one of the most iconic traditional dishes of the Tržič area.

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Celje rolca

Celje rolca

The popular dessert from Celje made from walnut dough and cream filling and topped with chocolate and ground walnuts will make many mouths water.

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Ribn'ška povanca

Ribn'ška povanca

This traditional dessert from the Ribnica Valley is made with filo pastry dough, millet porridge cooked in milk and a rich filling of sweet cream, butter, apples and eggs.

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Kvočevi nudlni

Kvočevi nudlni

This Carinthian dish consists of dough with a filling of dried pears (known as kvoce or kloce). It can be enjoyed as a main course or as a dessert.

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Jesenice-style govnač

Jesenice-style govnač

A simple meal based on boiled cabbage and potatoes reflects the modest lifestyle of ironworks workers. It goes well with cooked beef, Carniolan sausage or Gorenjska želodec.

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Škofja Loka medla

Škofja Loka medla

Škofja Loka medla is a dish made from kasha or flour and dressing, and is one of the oldest home-made peasant dishes. It used to be food for poor people, while today even gourmets gladly enjoy it.

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Krškopolje-pig pork chop

Krškopolje-pig pork chop

The Krškopolje pig is the only indigenous Slovenian pig breed, native to this very region, the Krško Plain. Its pork chops are juicy and tender, and healthier with a favourable ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids.

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Tržič maslovnik

Tržič maslovnik

If you take a stroll around Tržič and its mountainous surroundings, you will need a lot of energy. You will get this energy from a traditional dish made from sour cream, eggs and cornmeal, which used to be eaten before working in the field or forest.

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Radovljica smoked trout soup

Radovljica smoked trout soup

The river Sava, which flows peacefully past Radovljica, is the home to excellent trout. This is known to Uroš Štefelin of Villa Podvin, labelled with a Michelin star, who has created an excellent recipe for smoked trout soup.

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Ptuj Kurent soup

Ptuj Kurent soup

They have dusted off their old cookbooks in Ptuj and revived a recipe for a goose meat and vegetable soup that used to be prepared during carnival time. Since Kurent is a recognisable character of the Ptuj carnival, the soup was named after it.

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Tuhinjska fila and Fürst's game goulash

Tuhinjska fila and Fürst's game goulash

Tuhinjska fila is usually prepared in the Kamnik area for Easter. Fürst's game goulash brings a noble touch, as wild game hunting used to be mostly the domain of nobility.

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Belokranjska pogača

Belokranjska pogača

This traditional flatbread from Bela Krajina is made from dough sprinkled with caraway seeds and salt, and it has the Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) label. True to tradition, it is enjoyed by breaking off pieces by hand.

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Belokranjsko cvrtje

Belokranjsko cvrtje

Traditional Belokranjsko cvrtje (fritters) are pork patties dipped in a thick batter of eggs, flour and spices, then fried in oil or pork fat. This fried delicacy is typically served with a potato salad or lettuce.

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Semič fulanje

Semič fulanje

Fulanje is a traditional Easter dish made with bread, eggs, smoked meat and spices. It tastes best when served with a fresh horseradish sauce.

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Slovenj gradec mežerli

Slovenj gradec mežerli

The people of Koroška have numerous specialities of their own, including the dish called mežerli. It is based on offal, soaked old bread, fried onions and spices.

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Kostanjevica cop na lop

Kostanjevica cop na lop

Children from Kostanjevica na Krki mostly used to treat themselves to a sort of flavoured flatbread with cottage cheese and cream filling, and today you are sure to find the local "pizza" delicious, too.

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Are you ready for some more tasty recipes?

In every destination and historical city you can taste a characteristic drink or dish and try to prepare them at home. Take a look at some more ideas for your Slovenian-style lunch!

Recipes for creating Slovenian dishes

Aerial view of an autumn vineyard, with a table set beside it and guests gathered around.

Culinary experiences: a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse of historic town kitchens

Once you have enjoyed the cuisine of Slovenia's historic towns, you may wish to learn how these dishes come to life. Create your own culinary masterpieces in interactive workshops, discover signature flavours on guided food walks through the towns, or visit renowned wine cellars.

Experiences that teach you how to cook Slovenian-style

You can participate in the creation of a unique gastronomic experience yourself - as part of culinary experiences offered by historical cities.

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Culinary skills in Hiša Linhart

Culinary skills in Hiša Linhart

In Hiša Linhart in Radovljica you will be able to learn the secrets of culinary mastery in its culinary school, which also has a department for the youngest chefs.

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How to make true Idrija žlikrofi?

How to make true Idrija žlikrofi?

Idrija žlikrofi is a traditional speciality, which is why their preparation requires special attention. In Idrija they will gladly teach you the art of making žlikrofi.

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A welcome with Bela Krajina pogača

A welcome with Bela Krajina pogača

The people of the Bela Krajina region like to welcome their gusts with their own type of pogača. The dish, which is made from dough and sprinkled with caraway, is protected as a traditional speciality guaranteed; you can try it at selected providers...

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When it smells like Škofja Loka gingerbreads

When it smells like Škofja Loka gingerbreads

Škofja Loka is known for its local type of gingerbreads, called loški kruhki, which are made in special models. Learn the old handicraft speciality of the Škofja Loka area in special workshops.

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Open the door to a honey paradise

Open the door to a honey paradise

The Perger family in Slovenj Gradec has been dealing with candle-making and licitar-making since 1757. Their products have impressed many people, including celebrities from all over the world. Learn some of their skills in workshops for licitar hearts...

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Tea with the Ipavec family

Tea with the Ipavec family

Imagine enjoying a cup of tea that you have created entirely yourself. At a local herb farm in Šentjur, you can blend your own custom tea mix, before crafting your very own teacup at the Mlin umetnin art studio.

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Explore the culinary identity of historic towns through unique experiences

Let the distinctive flavours of Slovenia's historic towns and their surroundings linger long after you return home. Join experiences that will broaden your understanding of local culinary traditions. They are unique, boutique and authentically Slovenian. Look out for the Slovenia Unique Experiences label.

Discover the wine-making traditions of Slovenia's historic towns

Many of Slovenia's historic towns have a long-standing wine-making tradition and are surrounded by rolling vineyards. Explore this heritage through captivating wine and gourmet experiences, sampling the finest local wines straight from the source.

Historic towns with a wine-making tradition

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Kostanjevica na Krki: From vine to wine

Kostanjevica na Krki: From vine to wine

Listen to the stories of the family tradition of producing top-quality wines in a 160-year-old wine cellar in Jablance near Kostanjevica na Krki.

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There, where Refosco grows (Koper)

There, where Refosco grows (Koper)

In the hinterland of Koper, visit a homestead with a typical Istrian courtyard, see the oldest European Refosco vineyard, taste wines in a boutique winery, and stop at the Wine Fountain in Marezige.

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Stories from Mestni Vrh (Ptuj)

Stories from Mestni Vrh (Ptuj)

Visit a museum perched above Slovenia's oldest town, dedicated to the rich winemaking heritage of Slovenske Gorice. In addition to sampling local wines, winemakers will demonstrate the workings of a 110-year-old wine press.

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In the cellar of Mother Earth (Brežice)

In the cellar of Mother Earth (Brežice)

Ever wondered what wine from the bottom of the Pannonian Sea tastes like? Although the seawater drained away a long time ago, the locals dug special caves into the former seabed, called repnice, which today have been converted into unique wine cellars.

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Treasures of the Golden Hill (Slovenske Konjice)

Treasures of the Golden Hill (Slovenske Konjice)

The Golden Hill Estate above Slovenske Konjice delivers a rich experience of exquisite local wine. Experience a state-of-the-art wine cellar and savour award-winning wines – from fresh and sparkling to aged and premium-quality wines.

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Follow local brands

Collective brands are established under the "Originally Slovenian" model, which is based on a value chain that connects providers farm-to-fork. It enables you to buy high-quality offering of food and handicraft products with local added value that are labelled with a certificate that will help you recognise the collective brands. Some historical cities have established a collective brand of their own or are part of one.

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Tastes of Radovljica

Tastes of Radovljica

The Tastes of Radovljica brand connects local restaurants that preserve traditional cuisine or take a modern approach to it, swearing by local ingredients.

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Tastes of Kamnik

Tastes of Kamnik

The rich history of Kamnik is reflected in the diversity of Kamnik’s cuisine. Taste typical Kamnik dishes, from Tuhinj trout to the traditional "Kloštrska kremšnita" cream pastry.

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Tastes of Posavje

Tastes of Posavje

Different food service providers in Posavje that swear by the local tradition and traditional Posavje flavours and wines are connected through the Tastes of Posavje brand.

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Idrija Selected

Idrija Selected

Quality, tradition and innovation are the main features of handicraft, artistic and food products, as well as experiences from the Idrija area that have been granted the Idrija Selected certificate.

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Tastes of Rogla

Tastes of Rogla

Although the emphasis is on flavours, the local brand Tastes of Rogla combines both food and handicraft products from the Rogla-Pohorje destination.

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Taste Ptuj

Taste Ptuj

Taste local specialties through a modern culinary and wine experience in the oldest city in Slovenia. Try menus imbued with the tradition of Ptuj in selected Pruj restaurants and taverns.

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Flavours of the Škofja Loka countryside

Flavours of the Škofja Loka countryside

The Flavours of the Škofja Loka countryside revive the almost forgotten dishes of local grandmothers in a new, creative way. The foundation is, of course, local ingredients from Škofja Loka.

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Taste Celje

Taste Celje

If the Counts of Celje were alive today, they would certainly indulge in the dishes that boast the Taste Celje label. But since that is not possible, you can enjoy the selected Celje delicacies instead.

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Belokranjsko

Belokranjsko

The Belokranjsko brand is a mosaic of sustainably produced, processed and manufactured local specialities, which are the fruit of the land, the knowledge and the handiwork of the inhabitants of Bela krajina.

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Dolenjska Delights

Dolenjska Delights

The Dolenjska Delights brand showcases the finest, most authentic and verified local flavours and culinary specialities from the Dolenjska region.

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Brežice Selection (Brežice izbrano) certified quality

Brežice Selection (Brežice izbrano) certified quality

While exploring the area around historic Brežice, seek out some of the region's traditional products, dishes and drinks, and visit local producers who hold the Brežice Selection certificate of quality.

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Flavours of Novo mesto

Flavours of Novo mesto

Discover the flavours that tell the story of Dolenjska — from traditional dishes to modern culinary creations with a local twist. Look out for products bearing the "Flavours of Novo mesto" local certification.

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Events and festivals – a complete culinary journey through Slovenia's historic towns

Slovenian historical cities offer unforgettable culinary experiences and modern culinary art closely connected to local providers of fresh produce. While exploring the sights of cities and their surroundings, you can taste "some more" at culinary events that excite both young and old year after year, with an emphasis on local culinary specialities, of course.

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Altroke Sweet Istria (Altroke Sladka Istra)

Altroke Sweet Istria (Altroke Sladka Istra)

In September, the streets of Koper transform into a paradise for dessert lovers. The Sweet Istria festival offers both traditional Istrian desserts and sweet specialties from across Slovenia and abroad.

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Vinska vigred spring festival in Metlika

Vinska vigred spring festival in Metlika

In the spring, the largest wine festival in Slovenia attracts domestic and foreign lovers of top wines from Bela krajina to Metlika. The town is permeated with the scent of Bela krajina delicacies, and the festival is supplemented with diverse events.

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Chocolate Festival, Radovljica (Festival čokolade)

Chocolate Festival, Radovljica (Festival čokolade)

This three-day festival is one of Slovenia’s most popular gastronomic events. Slovenian and international chocolatiers showcase their creations, while visitors can experience chocolate in countless different ways.

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Idrija žlikrofi Festival

Idrija žlikrofi Festival

Try the tasty filled pastry pockets, which are a traditional local speciality. The best time to visit is in August, when a special festival is dedicated to the žlikrofi of Idrija.

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Salon Sauvignon

Salon Sauvignon

At the festival of wine, cuisine and fine arts in the majestic atmosphere of the Dominican monastery, you’ll taste the best Sauvignon Blanc and enjoy culinary delights combined with beautiful music and fine arts.

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Saltmakers’ Festival in Piran (Solinarski praznik v Piranu)

Saltmakers’ Festival in Piran (Solinarski praznik v Piranu)

Experience the salt-making tradition of Piran at an event dedicated entirely to salt. Discover customs connected with salt production and enjoy a rich programme of events at Tartini Square and the Sečovlje Salt Pans.

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Flavours of Posavje

Flavours of Posavje

Discover the rich tapestry of flavours that the Posavje region has to offer at this annual late-summer festival. Taste premium local wines and traditional Posavje delicacies.

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Are you ready for a trip to historical cities?

The most beautiful strolls through the historical cities of Slovenia can start with a short stop. If you would like to discover the most beautiful city sights and combine your stroll with the chance to enjoy in local cuisine, take a trip do discover unique experiences.

Spend a day exploring Slovenia's historic towns

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