Travellers looking for an alternative to Venice can set their sights on Slovenia’s coastal town of Koper, an overlooked Adriatic destination that combines Venetian architecture, waterfront cafés and historic squares where local beers are £3[1] and a glass of Slovenia wine is £3.50.
Nestled on Slovenia’s short but picturesque coastline and a five-minute walk from the cruise port to the city which Marella Cruises, TUI’s all inclusive UK cruise line, has seen a 39% increase in clicks from Google for Koper cruise related terms[2], Koper offers visitors a blend of medieval history, colourful architecture and easy-going Mediterranean charm.
Once part of the Venetian Republic for more than 500 years, reminders of its Italian influence can still be found throughout the town, from Gothic palaces and elegant piazzas to narrow cobbled streets lined with cafés and restaurants.
Highlights include Tito Square, the Praetorian Palace and the Cathedral of the Assumption, whose bell tower offers views across Slovenia’s coastline and the Adriatic Sea.
With £3.50 glasses of Slovenian wine and £3 local draught beer, Koper allows Brits to experience Italian-inspired charm in Slovenia for a fraction of the price.
Visitors can enjoy local specialities including fuži, a traditional Istrian pasta often served with truffle sauce, fresh Adriatic seafood such as octopus and sea bass, and pršut, a Slovenian cured ham typically enjoyed alongside regional wines.
Beyond the historic centre, Koper serves as a gateway to some of Slovenia’s most beautiful coastal locations, including Piran, a half an hour taxi ride from the city.
Piran is a postcard-perfect seaside town renowned for its Venetian architecture, colourful buildings and sweeping views across the Adriatic Sea.
Ped Vojvodic, Destinations Services Manager at Marella Cruises with 12 years of experience working in the industry: “Koper is one of the Adriatic’s best kept secrets. While many travellers have heard of Venice, fewer know about Slovenia’s beautiful coastline.
Koper combines fascinating history, stunning architecture, great local food and drink and easy access to nearby coastal gems such as Piran, making it a fantastic destination for customers looking to discover somewhere different.”
For those keen to visit the Slovenian coastal city of Koper, Marella Cruises offers a seven night Adriatic Explorer round cruise from Corfu on Marella Voyager from £1690 per person.
Price based on two adults sharing a Deck 10/12 Inside Cabin on an all-inclusive basis. Calling at Corfu, Corfu Town; day at sea; Koper, Slovenia; Zadar, Croatia; Split, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia and Corfu.
Includes TUI Airways flights from London Gatwick on the 4th September 2026, luggage per person, transfers, tips and service charges.
[1] Restaurant Prices in Koper, Slovenia (2026)
[2] TUI has seen a 39% increase in clicks from Google for Koper cruise related terms” (Source is Google Search Console)
Source: TUI Group PR & Comms
Images: © TUI Group · 2026
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