Things To Do
in Ankaran
Ankaran is a quiet coastal town on Slovenia's Adriatic border, tucked into the Slovenian Istria region. The town offers a sandy and pebbly beach, pine forests, and a calm waterside atmosphere perfect for slow travel. It serves as a gateway to nearby coastal towns like Koper, Izola, and Piran, with easy day trips to the Strunjan and Sečovlje salt pans.
The area blends Mediterranean charm with Slovenian hospitality, making it a pleasant base for nature, culture, and relaxed seaside meals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ankaran and check into your charming seaside accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while savoring the beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea. Take a stroll along the beach to stretch your legs after the journey.
Explore the picturesque coastal village and visit the local market to experience authentic Slovenian culture. Sample some fresh seafood at a nearby restaurant for lunch, indulging in the flavors of the region. Afterwards, take some time to relax at one of the nearby beaches or enjoy a dip in the sea.
As the sun begins to set, head to a beachside bar for drinks while watching the horizon turn vibrant shades of orange and pink. Enjoy a traditional Slovenian dinner at a nearby tavern, filled with local delicacies. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely walk along the shore, listening to the calming sounds of the waves.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast in your accommodation before heading to the Capuchin Monastery, known for its beautiful architecture and serene gardens. Take time to wander around the monastery grounds, immersing yourself in the tranquil environment. Engage with the history of the area through insightful informational displays.
Have lunch at a quaint restaurant nearby, where you can sample local Slovenian dishes. Afterward, venture to the nearby coastal paths for a leisurely hike with stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape. Snap photos of the scenic vistas and enjoy the fresh sea air.
Return to Ankaran for an intimate dinner at a local bistro. Delight in the fresh, locally sourced menu while enjoying the ambiance of the charming setting. Finish your day by attending a cultural event or concert, often held in the town square.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $60-120 |
| 🚲Bike rental (half day) | $10-25 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction entry | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque coastal scenery and easy day trips to Koper, Izola, and Piran
- Quiet, safe environment with a relaxed pace
- Strong seafood and Istrian-inspired cuisine
- Good base for nature reserves and coastal hikes
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller town amenities may require trips to nearby towns
- Seasonal services and hours can vary outside summer
- "Dober dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Kje je...?" - Where is...?
- "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?
- "Prosim" - Please / You're welcome
Places to Visit in Ankaran
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm mornings and dramatic sunsets over the headland offer wide sea horizons and silhouettes of boats.
Colorful boats, maritime activity, and the reflective water provide strong harbor photography opportunities.
Panoramic overlooks of the Strunjan Nature Reserve with the shimmering Adriatic beyond the cliffs.
Golden hour shots along the coastal stretch with pastel-hued houses and piers.
Food in Ankaran
Ankaran Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty tomato-soup based fish stew featuring locally caught fish and shellfish; best tasted in coastal taverns along the Koper–Izola corridor.
Must-Try!
Pillow-shaped Istrian pasta tossed with garlic, olive oil, and fresh prawns; a signature coastal dish served in many seafood restaurants.
A hearty bean, sauerkraut, and potato stew, reflecting rural Istrian home cooking often found in inland-adjacent eateries.
Simple, fresh sardines grilled with olive oil and lemon; a staple at seaside taverns along the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Farm-fresh produce, seafood, cheese, and local honey; ideal for picking up picnic supplies and to sample street snacks.
Casual bites like grilled calamari, frittatas, and local pastries perfect for a quick lunch by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a polite greeting like Dober dan; maintain respectful distance and speak softly in public spaces.
Dress neatly for dining and churches; modest behavior in religious sites; avoid loud conversations in quiet areas.
Slovene is the official language; Italian is commonly understood in coastal towns; learning a few phrases is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Ankaran
Ensure a smooth experience
In Slovenia tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is common if service is good. Some places include a service charge; check the receipt. Cash and card payments are widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days, long daylight hours, and busy beaches; plan early cafe visits and evening strolls as temperatures peak around midday.
Milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and harvest-time wine experiences; great for outdoor photography and coastal walks.
Cool, often rainy days with occasional windy stretches; sea becomes rougher and some facilities reduce hours.
Blooming coastal flora, pleasant temperatures, and off-peak atmosphere ideal for hiking and exploring historic towns.
Ankaran at Night
Hiking in Ankaran
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal headland walk with sea views and birdwatching opportunities.
Scenic hike along the Strunjan Nature Reserve with panoramic Adriatic vistas.
Gentle countryside routes hiking through olive groves and hill viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Ankaran by plane.
Major international gateway about 100-120 km inland; accessible by rail and road from the coast.
Closest international option to the northeast; about 50-60 minutes by car from the Koper area.
Large international hub serving many European destinations; a scenic drive or train journey to the coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Slovenian families and retirees in the off-season.
Crowds peak in summer due to beaches and coastal activities.
Nearby towns attract visitors from Italy and other parts of Europe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Adriatic provides favorable winds for sailing and windsurfing near the coast.
Calm coves and beaches support swimming, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.
Coastal and hinterland routes suited for recreational and road cycling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankaran.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian pasta, salads, and vegetable dishes; ask for olive oil-based preparations and avoid meat stocks.