Nova Gorica and surroundings

The Youngest City in Slovenia and its Distinctiveness

Situated on the border with Italy, Nova Gorica is a unique place even in a wider European context. It was built only after the Second World War and has been evolving its peculiar, ever-youthful identity ever since, drawing inspiration from several cultures coming into contact at this specific junction of worlds. Here, visitors can experience a delightful blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural offerings. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, an architecture lover, or an adventure seeker, Nova Gorica has something for everyone. If we had to describe Nova Gorica in as few words as possible, we would call it a town of variety and roses.

The foundation stone for Nova Gorica was laid on 13 June 1948. The town was built in the wake of the postwar delineation of the territory, which assigned the town of Gorica (today Gorizia, Italy) to Italy. Nova Gorica is located right next to the western country border, almost touching old Gorica (today in Italy). The new urban downtown heralded a new era of prosperity and growth in the region. The modern town plan boasts several parks, where lovely benches beckon visitors to slow down and take a break under the canopy of diverse park trees. Walking through town, one cannot help but admire the buildings designed by foremost Slovenian postwar architects. The myriad of delicate rose shrubs covering the town is another recognizable town feature. A stop in any of the small bars or eateries will renew your energy. Everything is within walking distance: galleries, the theatre, the library, venues for social gatherings, entertainment, and relaxation.

Geographically speaking, Nova Gorica is rather unique. Over the centuries, Germanic, Romance, and Slavic cultures have challenged and merged with each other. There has also been a notable Jewish presence for a period. This area has seen fierce military action, with frontline soldiers from diverse ethnic backgrounds under heavy fire on both sides during armed conflicts. This is where the Mediterranean meets the Alps and Dinarides, their specific scents and flavors meeting and meshing. This and more can be sensed and felt in Nova Gorica. The cosmopolitan flair of the famous casinos, entertainment venues, and hotels beckons visitors to experience the most distinctive part of the town’s tourist offer.

Some of the casinos:

Perla
Park
Fortuna
Admiral

A stone’s throw from the town centre you can find many of the town’s cultural landmarks. Solkan, the next town over, boasts the impressive Solkan railway bridge with the largest stone arch in the world, which crosses over Soča River. Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The marvellous Soča River is flanked by Sveta Gora – a pilgrimage site with the famous basilica and and a Franciscan monastery – to one side and Sabotin Hill with the Peace Park to the other. The park is dedicated to the memory of the fighting that took place on the Isonzo Front during the First World War. Across town, perched on a hilltop, the Kostanjevica Monastery, housing the extensive Škrabec library, and the crypt of the last descendants of the French Bourbon dynasty beckon visitors to make the walk up. Scattered over town are various museum collections of the Goriški Museum: Kromberk Castle, Vila Bartolomei and the Museum Exhibition Kolodvor which constitutes part of the Border Museum. Europe Square, located right on the state border in front of the railway station, is a symbol of the conurbation of Nova Gorica and Gorizia. A particularly striking feature of the town, it doubles as the venue for many town events.

The variety of Nova Gorica can also be quite literally tasted. The Vipava Valley spoils its inhabitants and guests year round with excellent produce, premium wines and masterfully prepared rustic dishes. A particular highlight of the gastronomy in the area around Novia Gorica is the radicchio from Goriška (sukénski régut in the local dialect) which is ripe and ready in stiff winter, adding a tangy twist to the local cuisine. Outstanding restaurants, inns and agritourism farms in and around Nova Gorica provide gastronomic delights galore. The town is literally a foodie central.

Some recommendations:
– Reservoir Dogs Brewery: Enjoy their craft beers in the cozy taproom or the beer garden.
– Fabrika: A popular spot in the city center with a great atmosphere
– Osterija Zogica: Local cousine, fresh made pasta and seasonal food. They also have summer garden.
– Le Cite: Napolitan pizza

– Verace: Napolitan pizza

– Gostilna pri Hrastu: Known for its seafood and Mediterranean dishes

– DAM Boutique Hotel & Restaurant: High-end Italian and seafood cuisine

– Gostilnica Mandrija: Mediterranean and European cuisine with a nice view

– Okrepcevalnica Dolga Njiva: A bar and fast food place known for its burgers (open only in high season)

– Gostilna Kekec: vintage style restaurant with a view of Nova Gorica. Tasty pancakes

– Dolce Vita: bar, pastry and ice cream shop
– Dnevna: bar, tearoom, fresh croasaints and muffins and tea shop. (also vegan and pet friendly).

– Kavarna Maks: book store and cozy bar

– Klub Teater: In the next building, nice variety of drinks

– Colnarna Solkan: bar with nice view on Soca River and grill food (open only in season)