Nova Gorica is a stylish, modern garden city situated right on Slovenia's western border with Italy, seamlessly connected with its twin sister city, Gorizia. Revered as the City of Roses due to the fragrant rose gardens that bloom throughout its avenues, Nova Gorica blends contemporary European charm, vibrant culture, and world-class entertainment with proximity to renowned wine regions. It serves as an exceptional base for exploring the rolling hills of Goriška Brda and the Vipava Valley while enjoying upscale casino resorts, fine dining, and pampering wellness centers.

Must-See Attractions & Local Recommendations

• Kostanjevica Monastery – Our local experts suggest visiting this historic hilltop Franciscan monastery at golden hour to see the tombs of the last French Bourbon King, Charles X, and admire the fragrant Bourbon rose collection in the cloister garden.
• Europe Square (Trg Evropske Unije) – A unique landmark where the border between Slovenia and Italy dissolves into an open plaza; pair a photo opportunity with a glass of local sparkling wine right on the border line.
• Solkan Bridge (Solkanski Most) – An architectural marvel featuring the world's longest stone-arch railway bridge over the turquoise Soča River, highly recommended for photography lovers and thrill-seekers trying bungee jumping.
• Kromberk Castle (Grad Kromberk) – A serene Renaissance castle housing regional art collections, surrounded by manicured romantic parklands.

Gourmet Dining & Fine Wine Culture

• Rosa di Gorizia (Radicchio) – The celebrated winter radicchio shaped like a rose bud, prized by top chefs for its delicate texture and crisp flavor.
• World-Class Wines of Brda & Vipava – Taste mineral-rich Rebula, crisp Malvazija, and award-winning biodynamic orange wines directly at boutique cellars nearby.
• Fresh Handmade Štruklji – Traditional rolled dough dumplings filled with sweet cottage cheese, walnuts, or tarragon, served in authentic local taverns.
• Artisanal Olive Oil – Distinctive Extra Virgin Olive Oil produced from northernmost Mediterranean olive groves lining the nearby hillsides.

Excursions & Scenic Escapes

• Goriška Brda (Slovenian Collio) – Often called the Tuscany of Slovenia, featuring rolling vineyard hills, olive groves, and historic medieval villages like Šmartno.
• Emerald Soča River – Enjoy peaceful riverside walking paths, cycling routes, or scenic kayak rides right on the edge of town.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Nova Gorica
• Official Vipava Valley & Nova Gorica Tourism Board
• Official Slovenian Tourism Portal

Top 3 Accommodations Selected by Our Travel Designers

• Perla, Resort & Entertainment – A legendary premier resort offering lavish accommodation, multiple fine dining options, a state-of-the-art spa, and one of Europe's largest gaming venues.
• Park, Hotel & Entertainment – A refined boutique-style hotel in the town center known for its warm hospitality, elegant rooms, and top-tier culinary offerings.
• Hotel Sabotin (Solkan) – A charming historical hotel set in an 18th-century building, located close to the historic Solkan Bridge and Soča River.

Top 3 Recommended Fine Dining Destinations

• Dam Restaurant – A Michelin-starred culinary temple led by Chef Uroš Fakuč, celebrated for its artistic, seafood-centric tasting menus and immaculate design.
• Restavracija Calypso (at Perla Resort) – An award-winning fine dining restaurant specializing in Mediterranean seafood delicacies and an elite wine cellar.
• Gostilna Pikol – A unique water-lily dining experience offering romantic pavilions over a pond with creative seafood-focused gastronomy.