Isola is an extremely cozy, lovely Slovenian town with an attractive aura of antiquity and modern tourist infrastructure. It is located between the towns of Koper and Piran in the heart of Slovenia’s picturesque sea coast.

Izola is not as popular a tourist center as its neighboring towns of Piran and Koper. However, the absence of large crowds of tourists and vacationers provides a wonderful opportunity for a peaceful and cozy getaway, with leisurely strolls through its Venetian streets lined with ancient houses and churches.

The history of the city of Izola began as a simple fishing settlement. Today, Izola is one of the most popular beach vacation spots in Slovenia.

With an area of 28.6 square kilometers and a population of just over 11,000 people, Izola is a charming location for a seaside holiday in Slovenia. While vacationing in Izola, one gets the feeling that time has slowed down, allowing for a maximum relaxation experience in a Mediterranean style.

Advantages of Vacationing in Izola

There are many reasons to choose the city of Izola for a vacation in Slovenia.

Firstly, Izola is a well-known European center for yachting and windsurfing.

Secondly, Izola harmoniously combines the architectural charm of Italian medieval times with the comforts of modernity.

Thirdly, Izola boasts beautiful beaches with a variety of entertainment options for tourists.

Fourthly, Izola is a great place for excursions and walks. A particularly popular spot for leisurely strolls among romantic couples is the picturesque 2 km coastal area.

Fifthly, the city of Izola has numerous incredible restaurants and cafes that are a true paradise for lovers of culinary masterpieces.

Sixthly, in Izola, one can experience a genuine Italian vacation at very reasonable prices. The town has been under significant Italian influence for a long time, which is reflected in its local architecture. Many Italians still reside here, and the Italian language, which is the second official language in this region, can often be heard.

This list of advantages for vacationing in Izola is not exhaustive and is updated with new points every year.

History of the City of Izola

The city of Izola has a long and fascinating history. In ancient times, this territory belonged to the Illyrians. Later, these lands became part of the Roman Empire, which established a large port called Aleiatum here. After the fall and decline of the Roman Empire, Izola came under the control of its successor, Byzantium.

The first written mention of the modern name of the city, Izola, dates back to 972. In 1278, the Venetians took control of Izola. They held the city until 1797 when Napoleon Bonaparte dissolved the Venetian Republic.

After the conclusion of the Napoleonic Wars in 1815 and until the end of World War I (1918), Izola was part of the Austrian Empire (from 1867, the Austro-Hungarian Empire). During the interwar period, Izola was part of Italy, and after 1945, it became part of Yugoslavia. Since 1991, Izola has been part of independent Slovenia.

For a long period of its history, Izola was an island. This island location gave the town its name, which comes from the Italian word “isola,” meaning “island.”

In those distant times, Izola was situated on an island and was surrounded by fortress walls with towers. The town was connected to the mainland by a large stone bridge. Later, in the early 19th century, Izola was connected to the mainland by a causeway. The walls of the city were used to construct the dam.

Sights of Izola

Among the historical and architectural landmarks of Izola, the Church of St. Maurus should be visited first. It is located in the very heart of the peninsula part of the city. The patrons of this temple, in addition to St. Maurus, are the holy martyrs – Bishop Donatus and Pope Sixtus II. The construction of the Church of St. Maurus began in 1547, on the site of an ancient Romanesque temple. Later, in 1585, a bell tower was built next to the Church of St. Maurus, which became an integral part of this temple complex. The church itself was built in accordance with the canons of the pseudo-Romanesque style, while the bell tower was constructed in the style of Venetian Gothic. As for the interior of the sanctuary, it is designed in the Baroque style, featuring an organ from 1796 and beautiful paintings. It is definitely worth climbing the 99 steps to the very top of the church’s bell tower, from where one can enjoy breathtaking views of Izola and its surroundings.

In addition to the Church of St. Maurus, the following historical and architectural landmarks in Izola are definitely worth visiting:

• The building of the city magistrate, constructed in 1325 and later rebuilt in the Baroque style in the 17th century;
• Manzioli Square. Here, you can find a large number of historical and architectural landmarks, such as the Church of St. Mary with its octagonal composition and vaulted ceiling in the shape of a cross, as well as the Manzioli and Lavizato palaces;

• The Baroque palace Besenghi del Ughi, built in the 18th century. It is considered the most beautiful building in Izola and the finest example of late Baroque architecture in the entire Slovenian Istria. Currently, this palace houses a music school;

• The Izolana Museum, also known as the House of the Sea. Its numerous exhibits, including photographs, videos, maps, and models of ancient boats and ships, are dedicated to the history of shipbuilding, fishing, and railway transport in Istria. The models recreate various vessels from the three coastal towns of Izola, Koper, and Piran. Particularly impressive are the skillfully crafted models of boats created by Izola native Marcel Blažina;

• The Church of St. Mary of the Assumption, dating back to the 11th century, is the oldest temple in Izola. It was built in the Romanesque style and is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. Inside the church, three altars, a wooden choir, and a stunning Venetian organ impress with their perfection;

• The Archaeological Park of San Simon Bay, where the life of the Roman port and coastal settlement of Aleiatum once thrived. Today, on this four-hectare site, visitors can explore the remains of a seaside villa and the port.
• The archaeological site of Vilijan. Here, you can see the preserved foundations and piers from the time of the Roman Empire. It is recommended to visit this site during low tide to see the ancient piers and coastal road;
• The Zanon Palace, built in 1772 on Kirpanova Street. It was constructed in the Baroque style for the Izola merchant Barba Nano Zanon.

Beaches of Izola

All beaches in Slovenia are clean, with crystal-clear water. Occasionally, dolphins can be spotted here. Most of Slovenia’s beaches are pebble-covered, while the seabed is sandy.

The beaches in Izola are an ideal place for family vacations with children, thanks to the mild climate that is perfect for young bodies. Numerous children’s attractions cater to even the most demanding kids.

In addition to the central city beach, Izola features main beach areas such as San Simon Bay and Belvedere. All of them are pebble beaches.

Each beach in Izola is distinguished by its unique features and entertainment options, including volleyball courts, children’s slides, picturesque sunsets, and more.

Central City Beach of Izola

This beach location is situated near the historic center of the city. It often becomes crowded with visitors. For tourists, there are numerous attractions, recreational areas, and children’s and sports playgrounds available here.

Beach on the Shores of San Simon Bay

This beach is considered the best in the city. It is located quite close to the central part of Izola. Its advantages include lower tourist traffic and proximity to a park.

Thanks to its location next to the park, visitors can enjoy a break from the heat in the shade of the trees after sunbathing on the beach. San Simon Beach is exceptionally beautiful and photogenic.

Photos taken at this beach turn out to be very successful.

Belvedere Beach

This wild beach is located at the foot of the hill of the same name. There are no equipped areas for relaxation with umbrellas and sunbeds, but this beach offers the opportunity to enjoy peace and solitude.

We recommend not to settle on just one beach location in Izola, but to visit various beaches in the city. This approach is better than any reviews and descriptions from travelers, as it will help you find your favorite spot for a beach getaway in Izola.

Active Recreation and Leisure

The town of Izola offers visitors a wide variety of active recreation and leisure attractions, including:

– Sailing
– Yachting
– Windsurfing
– Water skiing
– Banana boating
– Diving
– Tennis courts
– Beach volleyball
– Bowling
– Mini-golf
– Sea excursions
– Dolphinarium
– Free fishing
– Bicycle rentals for a full day
– Numerous local festivals: music, art, jazz, sports, dance
– Nightclubs and discos, etc.

Excursion Spots in Izola and Surroundings

Izola is located 110 km from Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, in a very convenient location for various excursions to museums, historical, cultural, and natural landmarks.

In the town itself, be sure to visit the Manzioli and Lavizato palaces, the Baroque palace Besenghi del Ughi, the Izolana Museum (also known as the House of the Sea), the Baroque Zanon Palace, the Church of St. Mary of the Assumption, the Archaeological Park of San Simon Bay, and the archaeological site of Vilijan.

Nearby Izola, there are many interesting locations for excursions, the most popular of which is:

Predjama Castle (first mentioned in 1274), located on a steep cliff 65.5 km from the town of Izola;

The medieval city of Piran, which is located a little over 12 kilometers from the town of Isola. Here you can admire numerous architectural monuments from the times of the Venetian Republic;

The coastal towns of Koper and Portorož, which are located at a distance of 8-9 kilometers from Isola. Tourists in Koper will be interested in the local historical and architectural monuments and a modern water park, while Portorož attracts tourists with its sandy beaches and resort recreation and health improvement;

The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, with a large number of various tourist locations and attractions;

The Postojna Jama karst cave, located more than 64 km from the town of Izola. It is one of the largest karst caves in Europe;

The Shkotsianski Caves are a network of karst caves with picturesque underground streams, which have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. They are located 40 km from Izola;

a horse breeding plant in Lipytsia, which is located 35.6 km from the town of Izola. At one time, this plant served the Austrian imperial court. In addition, it was at this plant that the Lipizzan white horse breed was bred;

The medieval town of Piran is located about 12 kilometers from Izola, where visitors can admire numerous architectural landmarks from the Venetian Republic.

The coastal towns of Koper and Portorož are situated 8-9 kilometers from Izola. In Koper, tourists can explore local historical and architectural sites as well as a modern water park, while Portorož attracts visitors with its sandy beaches and resort-style relaxation and wellness.

The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, offers a wide variety of tourist locations and attractions.

The Postojna Cave, located over 64 km from Izola, is one of the most famous karst caves in Europe.

Alpine lakes and the Italian cities of Venice and Trieste are also nearby.

Transport Accessibility

You can reach the town of Izola by shuttle buses, by train, or by sea. The town has a passenger port from which ferries can take you to Venice. Regular buses to the nearby towns of Portorož, Piran, and Koper depart every hour. As for air travel, the nearest airport is located in Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, which is 113 km from Izola. Buses to the airport leave Izola three times a day.

Features of Recreation in Izola

The charming Slovenian town of Izola, with its narrow medieval streets and neat houses with red-tiled roofs, gives the impression of having arrived in Italy. This effect is enhanced when you occasionally hear the Italian language in conversations among locals.

During your stay in Izola at any time of the year, you can explore a wide variety of historical and architectural landmarks, enjoy local culinary masterpieces in cozy cafes and restaurants, and embark on shopping tours in local shops.

The best place for walks in Izola is undoubtedly the local promenade with its yacht marina.

Throughout the year, Izola attracts tourists and vacationers from around the world with numerous festivals: music, art, jazz, sports, and dance.

However, the main draw for tourists in Izola is the opportunity for excellent beach recreation, with numerous water activities and comfortable swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea.

Visitors and tourists in Izola can disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle and enjoy an incredible paradise vacation on the shores of the warm Adriatic Sea.

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Was born and lived all his life in Uzhhorod. Graduated with a gold medal from Uzhhorod School No. 1 named after Taras Shevchenko (now Uzhhorod Lyceum named after Taras Shevchenko). Studied at the History Department of UzhNU, graduating with honors in 2009. Worked as a senior researcher at the Transcarpathian Museum of Folk Architecture and Life, a lecturer at the East European Slavic University.