Hop & Taste Slovenian Riviera Hop-On Hop-Off & Local Bites

Explore the Slovenian Coast through a relaxed blend of scenic driving, guided walking, and local tastings on this Hop & Taste hop-on hop-off tour, ideal for couples and families. The route links the Slovenian Riviera, panoramic viewpoints, vineyard villages, and the historic city of Koper. Enjoy scenic views of Istrian towns, the Adriatic Sea, and the Alps in the background before continuing through the countryside to the hilltop village of Marezige. Surrounded by vineyards, enjoy tastings of local wine and olive oil while taking in sweeping views of the Slovenian Coast in a peaceful Istrian setting. The journey continues in Koper with a guided walking tour through the old town, visiting Tito Square, Carpaccio Square, Cobbler Street, and the Da Ponte Fountain. Along the way, sample burek, a popular local pastry, and other regional delicacies. The order of visits may vary depending on the day and tour timing. Afterward, enjoy free time in Koper, just a short walk back to the ship.

Itinerary

1. Meet your guide at the pier, just outside the terminal building next to the ORANGE Hop & Taste Beach Flag, and begin with a guided scenic drive through Izola. Once a small island and later an important fishing town, Izola is known for its maritime heritage, colorful harbor, and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Your guide will share stories about its history and traditional life along the Adriatic as you pass the old town and waterfront. The drive continues to a panoramic viewpoint above Izola, offering one of the most striking views on the Slovenian Coast. From here, admire the northern Adriatic Sea with Izola, Koper, and Piran below, and the Julian Alps rising in the background. On clear days, the contrast between sea, hills, and Alpine peaks creates a truly memorable photo opportunity. (25 min)
2. In the charming hilltop village of Marezige, known as the heart of Refosco wine country above Koper, travelers will discover a blend of rich history, authentic culture, and breathtaking scenery. This boutique Istrian village has roots stretching back centuries and is surrounded by rolling vineyards and olive groves that define the region’s agricultural heritage. At a scenic terrace overlooking the countryside and the Bay of Koper, you’ll visit Slovenia’s first wine fountain, a unique local attraction where you can enjoy a glass of locally produced wine and taste premium olive oil while taking in panoramic views of the vineyard-dotted hills and distant coastline. Alongside wine and olive oil tastings, Marezige offers photo-worthy vistas, traditional Istrian hospitality, and a sense of village life rooted in long-standing winemaking traditions. (25 min) Admission included
3. In Koper’s old town, you’ll step into a living Mediterranean story where Venetian Gothic architecture meets lively local culture. As you stroll with your guide through narrow streets, you will pass beautiful squares and centuries-old landmarks that reveal Koper’s past as a key port in the Venetian Republic and later under diverse influences. You’ll visit Tito Square, the heart of town, dominated by the striking Praetorian Palace, a 15th-century Venetian Gothic landmark once home to city rulers. Nearby, the elegant Cathedral of the Assumption blends Gothic and Renaissance elements and showcases artwork connected to regional history. Winding through Cobbler Street and Carpaccio Square, named after the Venetian painter linked to Koper’s heritage, you’ll enjoy included tasting coupons to sample local flavors, including burek, a savory filled pastry beloved in the region. This guided stroll combines culture, sights, and local tastes, with free time and a short walk back to the pier. (1h 30min)

Meeting & end point