Europe is filled with stunning historic towns, but all too often they’re crowded with tourists. If you’re looking for a destination that’s a little more off the beaten path, this town is the perfect place.

Time Out has named Izola, in Slovenia, as one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. It says: “Piran receives most of the attention, Portorož has most of the glitz, and Koper gets most of the practical stuff, but those in the know will tell you that Izola is where Slovenia’s coast shines brightest.” It adds that the pace of life is slow in the town, which is close to the coast.

Time Out adds: “Izola is positively dripping in Venetian elegance, and its narrow, winding streets hide delightful cafes, romantic restaurants, and scenes of everyday life that have long been lost to the coast’s more mainstream destinations.”

If you’re wondering what there is to do in the area, there’s a huge range on offer depending on what you’re looking for.

You can visit Svetilnik Beach, which is a scenic part of the coast.

One person who visited said on Tripadvisor: “Great beach location in Slovenia. We were at the beach in Piran, Koper and Fiesa, but this beach is the best. 

“There are very clean toilets, little bars and ice cream. You can hire chairs for €5, and can lie on the grass, wood or stone. There are good facilities to get into the water. We think it was the best.

But this isn’t the only thing the town has to offer – you can’t miss out on exploring the town.

You’ll discover homes, cafes, shops, galleries, and churches, along with Manzioli Sqaure and the bell tower at Saint Maurus Church, which you can climb for views of the town and the sea.

Time Out says this stunning part of Slovenia is one to visit in 2026.