Things To Do
in Sveta Ana

Sveta Ana is a small village nestled in southeast Slovenia, perched on rolling hills among vineyards and fields. The hilltop church of Saint Anne towers over the settlement, offering sweeping views of the Bela krajina countryside. The area combines a calm rural atmosphere with stone farmhouses, winding lanes, and patchwork vineyards perfect for slow exploration.

It serves as a quiet base for nearby towns like Trebnje and Novo Mesto while retaining a welcoming, off-the-beaten-path vibe.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Village
morning
:

Start your journey with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Sveta Ana. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you visit local shops and cafés, absorbing the beauty of traditional Slovene architecture. Don't forget to capture some photos of the breathtaking landscape surrounding the village.

afternoon
:

Head to a local restaurant for a delicious lunch featuring regional specialties. Afterward, embark on a scenic hike in the nearby hills, where you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the tranquility of the rural setting.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in the village to enjoy dinner with freshly sourced ingredients. Engage with locals over a glass of wine and relish the warmth of Slovene hospitality. End your evening with a soft walk under the stars, reflecting on a day well spent.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local community center to learn about traditional Slovene crafts, and even participate in a workshop. Engage with artisans and hear their stories about local culture and traditions. This hands-on experience enriches your understanding of the region's heritage.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a guided tour of nearby historical sites, such as ancient churches and preserved farms. Each location tells its own story, deepening your appreciation of the area’s past. Capture the ambiance of historic Slovenia while interacting with knowledgeable guides.

evening
:

Find a quaint tavern to enjoy a hearty dinner, sampling dishes that have been passed down through generations. Listen to live folk music while you dine, immersing yourself in the cultural rhythm of the village. Allow the joyful atmosphere to wrap around you as you mingle with new friends.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🛏️Hotel (mid-range) per night$60-120
🧺Groceries per week$40-70
🚆Public transit ticket$2-4
Coffee in cafe$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning rural scenery and quiet, authentic Slovenian culture
  • Wine-focused experiences and easy day trips to Trebnje and Novo Mesto
  • Limited nightlife and fewer tourist amenities compared to larger towns
  • Some services may be boutique or seasonal, requiring advance planning
  • "Dober dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Kje je ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Prosim" - Please / You're welcome
  • " Govorite angleško?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Lahko mi pomagate?" - Can you help me?

Places to Visit in Sveta Ana

Visit one of these nice places.

Sveta Ana Hilltop Church

The hilltop church provides dramatic views over the Bela krajina landscape, especially at sunrise or golden hour.

Vineyard Terraces by the Krka River

Terraced vineyards with rolling hills and river motifs create classic rural Slovenian photography scenery.

Historic Trebnje Town Center

Medieval and Baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, and a tranquil market square offer timeless composition opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sveta Ana

The cuisine around Sveta Ana leans on farm-to-table Slovenian classics: hearty stews, fresh bread, and regional wines. Expect rustic dishes like Belokranjska pogača, jota, and štruklji, complemented by olive oils and local cheeses. Potica is a beloved dessert, and seasonal ingredients shine in many homey taverns. In rural Bela krajina you’ll often find simple, satisfying meals that pair beautifully with local wines and fruit brandies.

Sveta Ana Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Belokranjska pogača

A traditional flatbread topped with cornmeal, cheese, and sesame or herbs; a staple at local guesthouses and bakeries.

Must-Try!

Jota

A hearty sauerkraut and bean stew with potatoes, common in rural taverns and farm-style eateries.

Štruklji

Rolled dumplings filled with cottage cheese, walnuts, or tine, served warm as a comforting main or side dish.

Orehova Potica

A walnut roll dessert flavored with cinnamon and sugar, a favorite at celebrations and cafés.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Trebnje Market

Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, honey, and local specialties; a great place to sample regional snacks.

Novo Mesto Farmers’ Market

Lively market with farmers and artisans; look for fresh fruit, vegetables, baked goods, and ready-to-eat treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons: warm summers, cool springs and autumns, and cold winters. Summer highs often range 25–30°C (77–86°F), while winter temperatures can drop near freezing. Rain is common year-round, with peaks in spring and autumn. Overall, mild springs and autumns are particularly pleasant for outdoor exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A common, polite greeting is 'Dober dan' (good day) or 'Zdravo' (hello). A handshake is typical in formal settings.

Respect for privacy and quiet

Rural areas value modesty and quiet; keep voices down in public spaces, especially in evenings.

Punctuality

Punctuality is appreciated for appointments and formal visits; casual social meetups are flexible.

Safety Guide

Safety

Slovenia generally has a low crime rate and safe travel conditions in rural areas like Sveta Ana. Basic precautions apply: protect valuables in crowded places, use well-lit paths at night, and follow local guidance on road and trail safety. Emergency number is 112 for police, fire, and medical services. Wildlife and rural roads require standard seasonal caution, especially in remote lanes.

Tipping in Sveta Ana

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; if service charge isn’t included, 5–10% is customary in restaurants and cafés. Round up the bill or leave small tips for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted, with many places offering contactless payments. ATMs are common in town centers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; ideal for vineyard tours, long village walks, and outdoor dining. Expect occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and sun-protected.

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming orchards and vineyards; great for hiking and photography amid green hills and fresh air.

Autumn

Harvest season with cooler days and vibrant foliage; perfect for wine tastings, scenic drives, and slow village exploration.

Winter

Colder, quieter days; some trails may be icy. Cozy taverns and fireside chats in guesthouses create a different kind of charm.

Nightlife Guide

Sveta Ana at Night

Sveta Ana is a quiet, village-centered location, so nightlife is low-key. Nearby towns like Trebnje and Novo Mesto offer wine bars, cozy pubs, and seasonal live music, especially in summer festival periods. Expect relaxed evenings with good conversation and local wines rather than large clubs.

Hiking in Sveta Ana

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sveta Ana Hill Trail

A gentle loop to the hilltop church with panoramic views across the Bela krajina landscape.

Krka River Forest Walk

Shaded riverbank trails ideal for all ages, with potential wildlife spotting along the water.

Trebnje-Vidmuž Nature Edge

A moderately easy hike through mixed forests and farmland with seasonal wildflowers.

Airports

How to reach Sveta Ana by plane.

Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)

Main international gateway to Slovenia, located near Brnik; about 60–120 minutes by road to Sveta Ana depending on traffic.

Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG)

Major airport in neighboring Croatia; about 2–3 hours by road to Sveta Ana via border crossings, useful for additional international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sveta Ana is walkable within the village and with short road connections to nearby towns. The area is ideal for slow-speed exploration on foot or by bike, but longer trips may require a car or bicycle shuttle. Expect scenic but rural paths with occasional uneven surfaces.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Multi-generation households in agricultural villages and nearby towns.

Retirees

Residents who value the tranquil pace of life and access to regional services.

Seasonal workers

People involved in viticulture, farming, and seasonal tourism around Bela krajina.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular at community levels and in nearby towns; local clubs and weekend matches are common.

Cycling

Country lanes and gentle hills make for enjoyable road cycling and gravel riding.

Hiking

Accessible trails around Sveta Ana and along the Krka river valley attract walkers and nature lovers.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads in and around Sveta Ana are typically quiet rural lanes with light traffic. Public buses connect to Trebnje and Novo Mesto, though schedules can be limited on weekends. Car rental is convenient for exploring the wider region; parking in village centers is usually easy, with some spots limited near the church during events.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sveta Ana.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Slovenian dishes can be enjoyed vegetarian with cheese, seasonal vegetables, and grains. Request dishes without broth or meat stock, ask for salads or mushroom-based options, and look for local cheeses and štruklji fillings as filling vegetarian choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in nearby towns (Trebnje and Novo Mesto), with clinics and pharmacies in smaller villages like Sveta Ana. Slovenia has universal healthcare; carry your European Health Insurance Card if you’re eligible. For emergencies, dial 112 and request ambulance or police assistance as needed.

Discover Slovenia

Read more in our Slovenia 2025 Travel Guide.

Slovenia Travel Guide