Piran is a town in Slovenia, on the beautiful Gulf of Piran. Its medieval walls, narrow cobblestoned lanes and colorful houses make it a must-visit.
Piran is a town in southwestern Slovenia on the Gulf of Piran on the Slovenia Adriatic Coast. It is one of the three major towns of Slovenian Istria, one of the best coastal cities in Slovenia. The town has much medieval architecture, with narrow streets and compact houses. Piran is the administrative center of the local area and one of Slovenia’s major tourist attractions and is the biggest draw for holidaymakers including sunbathe and swim.
1. Tartini Square
Tartini Square is the main square in Piran. It is named after Guiseppe Tartini, an Italian composer, and violinist, who was born here. Tartini Square is the heart of the Piran old town. A continuous flow of people pulses through the center of the square before disappearing down the narrow streets that lead away from it. On three sides, colorful buildings surround the square. The fourth side of the square opens up to the harbor.
2. Visit the Church of St. George
Built on the site of a previous church at the beginning of the 1600s, it was named for the town’s patron saint; the space above the door was built for his statue, but has never been filled. Modeled after St. Mark’s Cathedral in Venice, this church is a great spot to get unique views over Piran and the coast.
3. Walk the Medieval Walls of Piran and watch the magic sunsets
Watching the sunset is one of the top Piran, Slovenia things to do – and the walls of Piran are the place to do it. While Piran was part of the Republic of Venice, these fortifications were built to protect the town from Turkish invasions. These walls date back to the late 15th century.
4. Walk Through The Old Town
The old town is a maze of narrow cobblestoned lanes and colorful houses, especially in the area between Tartini Square and the end of the peninsula. No maps are needed since it is small and compact. It won’t take long until you pop out onto a beach or wind your way back to Tartini Square.
5. Stroll the Harbor
Just beyond the entrance to Tartini Square is a small oval-shaped harbor common of Slovenian coastal towns. Blue fishing boats line the semi-circular space, bobbing on the water. Looking back toward Piran from the far end of the harbor, the multitude of sailboat masts curtain the town.