Nova Gorica Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the scenic Goriška region of Slovenia, Nova Gorica is a vibrant town that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern entertainment. Surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, this charming destination is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

One of the main attractions in Nova Gorica is the stunning Solkan Bridge, which spans the emerald-green Soča River. Known as the largest stone arch railway bridge in the world, it is an architectural marvel that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll across the bridge or enjoy a thrilling train ride to experience its grandeur up close.

For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the Kostanjevica Monastery is a must. Located on the outskirts of Nova Gorica, this historic landmark dates back to the 17th century and houses the tombs of the Bourbon dynasty. The monastery also boasts a beautiful Gothic church and a tranquil garden, providing a serene escape from the bustling town.

Nova Gorica is also known for its vibrant casino scene, offering a lively nightlife and entertainment options. The Perla Casino is a popular destination for those looking to try their luck at the tables or enjoy a lively evening of music and dancing. With its luxurious atmosphere and a wide range of games, it is a haven for both seasoned gamblers and casual players.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in the surrounding area of Nova Gorica. The nearby Trnovo Forest offers picturesque hiking trails, where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Goriška region's flora and fauna. The Soča River is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with activities such as rafting, kayaking, and fishing available for adrenaline junkies.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Nova Gorica also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. The Cherry Festival, held in June, celebrates the region's abundant cherry harvest with music, dance, and delicious cherry-themed treats. The Gorizia Jazz Festival, held in August, attracts jazz enthusiasts from around the world with its stellar line-up of international artists.

Alternative names: Population: 13.2 thous. (2019)Area: 119.31 mi²Elevation: 328 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 45°57'28"N, 13°38'49"E

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GoriškaSlovenia

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Nova Gorica Top Attractions

Nova Gorica Attractions - What to See and Explore

Nova Gorica offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Transalpina/Europe Square, Kostanjevica Monastery, Solkan Bridge, Goriška. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

History museum • Shopping • Square
Transalpina/Europe Square
Transalpina Square"; Slovene: Trg Evrope, meaning "Europe Square", is a square divided between the towns of Gorizia, northeastern Italy, and Nova Gorica, southwestern Slovenia.
Monastery
Kostanjevica Monastery
Kostanjevica Monastery is a Franciscan monastery in Pristava near Nova Gorica, Slovenia. The locals frequently refer to it simply as Kapela.
Bridge
Solkan Bridge
The Solkan Bridge is a 219.7-meter arch bridge over the Soča River near Nova Gorica in western Slovenia. With an arch span of 85 meters, it is the world's longest stone arch railroad bridge. It holds this record because later construction technology used reinforced concrete to build bridges.

Museum
Goriška
Goriška is a historical region in western Slovenia on the border with Italy. It comprises the northern part of the wider traditional region of the Slovenian Littoral. The name Goriška is an adjective referring to the city of Gorizia, its historical and cultural centre.
Church
Co-Cathedral of Christ the Saviour
The Co-Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, also called Nova Gorica Cathedral, is the name given to a religious building that is affiliated with the Catholic Church and serves as the co-cathedral or alternate cathedral of the Diocese of Koper. It is located in Nova Gorica, a city in the European country of Slovenia.
City • Area
Solkan
Solkan is a settlement in the Municipality of Nova Gorica in the Gorizia region of western Slovenia, at the border with Italy. Although it forms a single urban area with the city of Nova Gorica today, it has maintained the status of a separate urban settlement due to its history and the strong local identity of its residents.
45°57'25"N • 13°39'2"E
Goriška knjižnica Franceta Bevka
Library
Nature • Natural attraction • Mountain
Sabotino / Sabotin
Sabotin is 609-metre-high mountain ridge overlooking Gorizia, Nova Gorica, and Solkan on the border between Slovenia and Italy. At its foot stands the Solkan Bridge spanning the Soča River.
Nature • Natural attraction • Mountain
Sveta gora
Sveta Gora is a settlement in western Slovenia in the Municipality of Nova Gorica. It encompasses Holy Mount, above the Soča Valley and southwest of the Banjšice Plateau.
Universities and schools
University of Nova Gorica
The University of Nova Gorica, UNG, is the fourth university in Slovenia. It is located in the towns of Nova Gorica, Gorizia, Vipava, and Ajdovščina.

Day trips

Nova Gorica – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Nova Gorica, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Vintgar Gorge (Triglav National Park), Krvavec, Škocjan Caves (Divača).

37 milesNE
Scenic walkway along a historic gorge
Vintgar Gorge, Triglav National Park
Nestled within the verdant embrace of Triglav National Park in Slovenia, the Vintgar Gorge (Soteska Vintgar) is a stunning natural masterpiece that captivates visitors with its ethereal beauty. This geological marvel, carved by the Radovna River, presents a serene...
49 milesNE
Winter sport, Ski area
Krvavec
Nestled in the heart of Slovenia's picturesque alpine landscape, Krvavec stands as a premier ski area that beckons winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe. This stunning resort, located just a stone's throw from the capital city of Ljubljana, offers a...
26 milesSE
, Natural attraction, Cave
Škocjan Caves, Divača
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Karst region in Slovenia, the Škocjan Caves are a breathtaking natural wonder that has captivated visitors from around the globe. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its extensive underground canyon and a complex...
36 milesNE
Fairytale castle on lakeside and museum
Bled Castle, Bled
Perched atop a precipitous cliff rising 130 meters above the glacial Lake Bled, Bled Castle is a majestic sight in the city of Bled, Slovenia. The castle, which is the oldest in Slovenia with its origins dating back to the 11th century, is an emblem of Slovenia's...
42 milesE
Medieval fortress with a funicular train
Ljubljana Castle, Ljubljana
Perched atop a hill overlooking Slovenia's capital, the Ljubljana Castle is a historical fortress and one of the city's most prominent landmarks. With its roots stretching back to the 11th century, this castle has been a silent witness to the many evolutions of...