Things To Do
in Ankaran

Ankaran is a picturesque coastal town located in Slovenia, known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil Mediterranean atmosphere. Nestled between the sea and the hills, it offers stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. The town boasts a rich history, with influences from both the Venetian and Austro-Hungarian empires evident in its architecture.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace of life while exploring charming streets, local markets, and natural landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ankaran
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along the Ankaran beach, soaking in the views of the Adriatic Sea and the nearby Italian coast. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, trying traditional Slovenian pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Strunjan Nature Reserve, where you can hike along scenic trails and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant.

evening
:

Take a sunset walk along the promenade, followed by dinner at a local seafood restaurant, sampling fresh fish and local wine.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Leisure
morning
:

Explore the historic town center, visiting the local museum to learn about Ankaran's history and cultural heritage. Stop for a coffee at a quaint café.

afternoon
:

Spend some time at the local markets, where you can find handmade crafts and local produce. Enjoy a light lunch at a food stall offering traditional Slovenian street food.

evening
:

Attend a local cultural event or concert, if available, or enjoy a quiet dinner at a family-run tavern, experiencing authentic Slovenian hospitality.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza$10
🛒Groceries for a Week$50
🏨Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Relaxed atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • May be crowded during peak summer months.
  • Public transportation options are limited.
  • "Dober dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Prosim" - Please
  • "Kje je stranišče?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Oprostite" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Ankaran

Visit one of these nice places.

Ankaran Beach

Capture stunning sunset views over the Adriatic, with the beach framed by lush greenery.

Strunjan Cliffs

A dramatic backdrop for photographs, with soaring cliffs and panoramic views of the coastline.

Old Town Ankaran

Charming streets lined with historical buildings provide a picturesque setting for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ankaran

Ankaran offers a delightful culinary scene that combines Mediterranean flavors with traditional Slovenian dishes.

Ankaran Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Istrian Truffles

These prized mushrooms are often served with pasta or as part of local cheese platters.

Must-Try!

Seafood Risotto

A creamy risotto made with fresh fish and seafood caught from the Adriatic.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ankaran Market

A vibrant market held weekly, where local vendors sell fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal products.

Food Stalls at the Beach

Enjoy various street food options, including grilled fish and local sausages, right by the sea.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ankaran experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is most common in autumn and winter, while summers are usually dry and sunny.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; maintain eye contact to show respect.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and it's polite to try a little of everything offered.

Respect for Nature

Always follow local guidelines to protect the natural environment, especially in parks and reserves.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ankaran is generally very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings in crowded areas.

Tipping in Ankaran

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and hiking. Expect fewer tourists.

Summer

Warm temperatures ideal for beach activities. This is the peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

Cooler weather and beautiful fall colors make it great for hiking and photography. Less crowded than summer.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snowfall. Some attractions may have reduced hours, but it's a peaceful time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Ankaran at Night

Ankaran's nightlife is generally relaxed, with a few bars and cafes offering live music and a laid-back atmosphere. The beach bars come alive during the summer months, where visitors can enjoy cocktails and mingle with locals. For a more vibrant scene, nearby cities like Koper and Piran offer a wider range of nightlife options, including clubs and late-night events.

Hiking in Ankaran

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trail to Strunjan Cliffs

A scenic hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding landscape.

Hike to Debeli Rtič

A moderate hike that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the coast, suitable for families and casual hikers.

Airports

How to reach Ankaran by plane.

Portorož Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Ankaran, Portorož Airport offers seasonal flights and connections to major cities in Europe.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ankaran is a very walkable town, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants within a short distance from each other. The coastal promenade provides a scenic path for leisurely walks, and the town's layout is generally flat, making it accessible for all visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town's population consists primarily of Slovenians, who are known for their hospitality and community spirit.

Tourists

Ankaran attracts a mix of domestic and international tourists, particularly during the summer months, drawn by its beaches and historical sites.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Slovenia, with local clubs and community teams actively participating in leagues.

Water Sports

Given its coastal location, water sports such as sailing, swimming, and windsurfing are popular among locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ankaran is generally light, and the town is easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options are limited, but buses connect Ankaran to nearby towns and cities. During the summer months, expect increased traffic due to tourist influx.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankaran.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check if meals are prepared with meat stock.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in larger restaurants, but it's good to ask.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Ankaran is good, with local clinics available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals can be found in nearby cities like Koper. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and most healthcare providers speak English.

Discover Slovenia

Read more in our Slovenia 2025 Travel Guide.

Slovenia Travel Guide