Piran is a wonderful little town, and in my opinion, the most charming town on the Slovenian coast. 500 years of Venetian rule left its mark on the town's architecture. Today, a picturesque small-size town, offers gorgeous views.
Slovenian seaside is nice all year round and we often take the opportunity to visit it also on sunny winter days. Last week we walked along a scenic path, from Fiesa town to Piran. The path stretches between the sea and the steep cliff, where you can see different layers of rocks. There are several cliffs along the short Slovenian coast that make the coastline even more attractive.
Fiesa shore
Path from Fiesa town to Piran
The path leads you “on top” of Piran, to the St. George's Parish Church.
View from St. George's Parish Church courtyard
From the church courtyard there is a great view on terracotta rooftops, the main square, the old port and a small beach,….the whole Piran and further to Italy.
Both, the church, and the campanile, were modelled after St. Mark Cathedral and St. Mark Campanile in Venice. There is an option to climb on the bell tower. 146 stairs will bring you to the top, from where you have a great 360-degree view of Piran. Unfortunately, the bell tower is closed during the winter months.
Tartini square is the main square of Piran and was named after Giuseppe Tartini, Italian violinist and composer who was born in Piran. Dreamy square is on three sides surrounded by colourful houses, while the fourth side of the square opens on the port and further to the Adriatic Sea. An interesting fact about the square is, that until 19th century, the land, where today stands the square, was still under water.
Along all colourful houses one will for sure capture your attention - the Gothic-style Benečanka (Venetian House). The Venetian house is the only building on the square that retains its original 15th century facade.
The square is also ornate by the blue and white Municipal Hall and the yellow, Tartini birth house. Today the house hosts a small museum where you can also see his violin. On the square there is also his statue.
Instead of climbing on the campanile, you can have great views of the town from the medieval walls. The walls date back to the 15th century, at a time when Piran was under Venetian Republic, and were constructed to protect the town from Turkish invasions.
One of the best things that you can do in Piran is just wonder in quaint alleyways, narrow lanes, cobblestone streets and small piazzas,… During working days or in summertime there is an open-air market, some local galleries and art shops. During wintertime everything is calmer, few things are closed but for sure the walk around the town is still pleasant. The town is small, so you will not get lost .
The small harbour is nostalgic, with all boats gently winging on the waves. Just a short walk on the pier brings you to the red lighthouse.
The point that stretches out in the sea is called Punta. There is a small church and a lighthouse.
Along the sealine there are big white rocks, that protects the road from strong waves. Local artists created some very nice sculptures. Some of them are easily noticed, like the mermaid, others need an attentive eye. We loved the secret stairs, and we are still wondering …Where are they leading? For whom are they made?
A strong Italian influence is still present, not only on the language, culture, .. but also on the cuisine. There are numerous good restaurants in Piran, where you can enjoy a great meal in the sun looking at the Adriatic Sea. Even if we are in February, the day was warm, and we were able to have a quick lunch outside. We just love this!
Slovenia has only 43,1 kilometres of coastline, but few charming towns to visit. Beside Piran, also Izola and Koper. The inland, called Slovenian Istra, is all to discover with great wine and olive oil producers, many cycling and hiking trails and more. Many options that make it worth returning…
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