“Life is like sailing: sometimes the bora blows, other times the sea is calm.” The new season of the Whispers of Izola podcast moves outdoors. We walk through Izola with our guests, change locations along the way, and show the places they feel most connected to. For the first walk of this season, we set off with a local Urška Košir, a psychologist and researcher in the field of public and mental health, who speaks about health directly—without embellishment and without universal formulas. This episode was recorded on the move: from Korte and Kaštelir, past the Burja Sailing Club and the old harbour - "mandrač", and finishing at the table in the Restaurant of Hotel Marina. The conversation follows a common thread: health as a relationship, a process, and an everyday practice—not as a goal you achieve once and then simply “move on from.”

Visit Izolana - House of the Sea and discover the rich stories of Izola's heritage. 35 ship models, a real fishing boat, a projection of the development of the former island town on a 3D model... Izolana – House of the Sea will be open from 26 to 31 December 2025 and from 2 to 3 January 2026, between 10 AM and 4 PM.

2026 in Izola brings a lively calendar of events that will tempt you with great food and wine, sporting experiences and cultural highlights well beyond the summer peak. Culture lovers will once again have plenty to enjoy at the Kino Otok – Isola Cinema film festival. Flavours of Izola: the season starts early The year’s wine and culinary buzz begins early with Refuscus Mundi (7 February) and the Orange Wine Festival (24 April). One of the most popular foodie stops remains Pier of Tastes—first on Easter Saturday, 4 April, followed by: 4 April2 and 30 May27 June26 September17 October Summer highlights include: Festival of Olives, Wine and Fish (5–6 June)Fishermen’s Festival (21–22 August) In 2026, local inns and restaurants across Slovenian Istria will also spice up their menus with themed culinary days—celebrating wild assparagus, squid and sardines, as well as inspirations from Venetian cuisine. Tip: Dates and details may be updated—check the Visit Izola for the latest information.

Izola may be renowned for its diverse array of bathing areas, but its walking trails are just as diverse and worth exploring. Long trails, short trails, rural, hillside, seaside, leading you through nature parks, or along the route of the former Parenzana railway... Izola's walking trails will amaze you in all seasons and weather conditions, with the exception of extreme heat or severe storms. Find out more about our five favourite hiking trails and be sure to come check them out soon. 

As the year slowly draws to a close and we conclude this year’s series Vir of Izola’s Flavours, we set out to sea one last time. Not to the postcard-perfect sea, but to the real one: working, fishing, authentic. We were taken there by Jan Virant, who, at just 27 years of age, has already spent thirteen years on a fishing boat.

With the Locals When we can see the city of Izola embraced in nature, surrounded by the scent of local olive oil, grapes, and wine, and when friendly locals give us a warm welcome ... that's when we know: we're in the countryside of Izola. What to do in this green Istrian oasis? You can find some ideas below. You can explore the places on your own or choose a unique adventure: “Experience the countryside of Izola with a local”. It is said that everything is better in good company and we agree, how about you? 

Izola enchants with the scent of the sea, its picturesque streets, and the charm of a former fishing town. But those who take the time to explore its countryside will discover much more – authentic stories, breathtaking views, and the true flavors of Istria. Today, we invite you to venture there – into the rural heart of Izola, where nature speaks for itself, locals uphold their traditions, and produce outstanding olive oils and wines that add an essential touch to Istrian cuisine.  

This year, Izola will once again burst into life with vibrant colours, laughter, and playful antics.