Things To Do
in Metlika
Metlika is a small town perched along the Kolpa River in southeastern Slovenia, renowned for its preserved old town and riverside charm. It sits at the heart of the Bela Krajina wine region, where vineyards roll down toward gentle hills. Its pastel façades, historic castle ruins, and narrow lanes invite leisurely exploration and scenic river views.
Visitors enjoy warm hospitality, traditional cuisine, and easy access to nature in the Kolpa River valley.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting the Metlika Museum, where you can delve into the local history and culture of this charming town. After exploring the exhibits, take a stroll through the picturesque town center and admire the old architecture. Don’t forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Slovenian breakfast.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking tour of Metlika, exploring its quaint streets and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the nearby vineyards to learn about the wine-making process that the region is famous for. Enjoy a wine tasting session amidst the scenic landscape, savoring the local varietals.
As the sun sets, dine at a cozy restaurant offering traditional Slovenian cuisine. Immerse yourself in the local gastronomy while enjoying a glass of wine made from the region’s own vineyards. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the Kolpa River, basking in the tranquility of the night.
Kickstart your day with a visit to the nearby Kolpa River, where you can rent a kayak for some early morning paddling. The calm waters and stunning scenery will invigorate your spirit as you navigate the gentle currents. Afterwards, enjoy a packed breakfast by the riverside, taking in the serenity of nature.
In the afternoon, head to the hills surrounding Metlika for a hiking adventure. Follow the marked trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the countryside, spotting local wildlife along the way. Find a scenic spot to relax and appreciate the natural beauty that defines this enchanting region.
Return to Metlika for dinner at a local bistro that specializes in fresh farm-to-table dishes. As you enjoy your meal, engage with the locals and learn about their lives in this picturesque town. Wrap up your evening with a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, soaking in the vibrant energy.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🚆Public transport (1-way ticket) | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with rich local culture and wine country nearby
- Accessible nature along the Kolpa River and Lahinja landscapes
- Calm, safe environment ideal for relaxed, scenic getaways
- Genuine regional cuisine with hearty dishes and local wines
- Limited nightlife and large-scale entertainment
- Public transport options can be less frequent than in bigger cities
- Seasonality affects certain attractions and markets
- Smaller town amenities compared to major urban centers
- "Dober dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Prosimo" - Please
- "Kje je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?
- "Govorite angleško?" - Do you speak English?
- "Lahko priporočite restavracijo?" - Could you recommend a restaurant?
- "Kje je najbližja lekarna?" - Where is the nearest pharmacy?
Places to Visit in Metlika
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping views of the town and Kolpa River from the hillside ruins, especially golden hour light.
Serene riverside scene with reflections of trees and cottages, perfect for long-exposure shots.
Colorful building facades, church tower, and winding lanes ideal for street photography.
Picturesque crossing with the river and surrounding greenery as a backdrop.
Food in Metlika
Metlika Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rustic flatbread studded with sesame seeds and herbs; best enjoyed warm from a local bakery.
Must-Try!
A warming stew of sauerkraut, beans, potatoes, and smoked pork.
A hearty barley and lentil mix slow-cooked with vegetables and meat.
Grilled or pan-fried locally caught fish like carp or catfish, served with potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town square offering seasonal produce, cheeses, honey, breads, and local crafts.
Casual stalls along the river in summer offering pastries, fried snacks, and light bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite ‘Dober dan’ (good day) or ‘Pozdravljeni’ is appreciated; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and follow local guidelines.
Slovenes value courteous conversation and a relaxed pace; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Metlika
Ensure a smooth experience
In Slovenia, service charges are rarely included; leaving 5–10% for good service is customary in restaurants and cafes.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payment is common in shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery;序 riverside walks are pleasant and markets begin anew with produce and flowers.
Warm to hot days; long daylight hours; ideal for river activities, outdoor dining, and harvest-season wine events in nearby villages.
Vineyards come alive with harvests; vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures make walking comfortable and scenic.
Generally cold with occasional snow; many outdoor attractions slow down, but indoor tastings and cozy eateries provide warmth.
Metlika at Night
Hiking in Metlika
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside loops and forest paths with varying difficulty levels, offering river and hill views.
Protected area with easy to moderate hikes through woodlands, wetlands, and cultural sites.
Rolling terrain with lookout points and vineyard scenery, suitable for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Metlika by plane.
The main international gateway to Slovenia, about 1.5–2 hours by car depending on traffic.
Smaller international domestic flights; serves as a regional alternative, with a several-hour drive to Metlika.
Croatian international airport within roughly a 2–3 hour drive, convenient for regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly ethnic Slovenes, with a presence of Roma communities; many local families have deep agricultural and wine-making ties.
Summer and harvest seasons bring temporary workers to vineyards and farms in the Bela Krajina region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on the Kolpa River for scenic paddling and sunset sessions.
Scenic country roads and riverside paths suitable for all levels.
River fishing opportunities along the Kolpa and nearby streams.
Gentle to moderate trails through Bela Krajina hills and forested areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Metlika.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options such as salads, dairy dishes, and egg plates; mention ‘brez mesa’ (no meat) and ask about stock/broth ingredients.