Still an easygoing fishing village at heart, Izola doesn't get nearly as much love as some of Slovenia's other coastal towns and is often overlooked by tourists racing by on their way to Piran for a day trip. However, as far as we're concerned it's a beautiful little Venetian port town with enough amenities to keep you comfortable, windy old streets to wander and sights to see to make it arguably the most attractive destination in the region.

The soul of Izola is most tangibly felt whilst strolling along the ancient fishing harbour, which in more recent years has been supplemented with a modern marina just to the west (and an impressive fleet of luxury yachts and other boats). In the summertime, life here quite naturally centres around the sea and the plethora of activities it offers, from lounging in the sun on one of several beaches to heading out on the water for a panoramic sightseeing trip or any number of adrenaline pumping water sports. However, thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, the town is a year-round destination, with hiking and cycling trips or a game of tennus possible even in the wintertime.

Despite its small size, Izola plays host to a number of important festivals and events, including the Kino Otok Film Festival and the traditional Fisherman's Festival. All of this and we haven't even mentioned the exquisite culinary possibilities offered both in the town and the nearby countryside, which by itself is more than enough reason to pay Izola a visit.