Metlika
,Metlika is a small town located in southeastern Slovenia near the border with Croatia. It is known for its picturesque setting along the banks of the Kolpa River and surrounded by lush green hills. The town features well-preserved historic buildings and a charming old town area with narrow streets and colorful houses.
Metlika is also famous for its wine production, particularly its white wines made from local grape varieties.
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Prosim" - Please
- "Dobro jutro" - Good morning
- "Kako si?" - How are you?
- "Na zdravje" - Cheers/To your health
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Metlika
morning
:Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Metlika, soaking in the local architecture and scenery. Visit the Metlika Castle for a glimpse into the region's history.
afternoon
:Enjoy lunch at a local eatery that serves traditional Slovenian dishes. Spend the afternoon at the Žumberak-Samoborsko Gorje Nature Park, hiking and enjoying the beautiful landscapes.
evening
:Dine at a cozy restaurant by the Kolpa River. Take a relaxing evening walk along the riverbank under the stars.
Bike Around Metlika
morning
:Rent a bike and explore the picturesque countryside surrounding Metlika. The fresh air and scenic views will invigorate your spirits.
afternoon
:Stop for a picnic by the Kolpa River, filled with locally sourced foods. After eating, continue your cycling adventure, visiting nearby vineyards for wine tasting.
evening
:Return to Metlika and savor a delicious dinner at a traditional wine cellar. Enjoy the atmosphere and perhaps join in on a local folk music session.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery, including vineyards and the Kolpa River.
- Rich cultural heritage and history with various historical sites.
- Peaceful and quiet, making it ideal for relaxation and rural tourism.
- Excellent opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
Bad
- Limited job opportunities and economic development compared to larger cities.
- Transportation options may be limited, making it challenging to access other regions.
- Smaller selection of amenities and services compared to urban areas.
- Potential language barriers for non-Slovenian speakers.
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in the Kolpa River Valley
Explore the beautiful trails along the Kolpa River, offering scenic views and a chance to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
Kayaking on the Kolpa River
Experience an adventurous kayaking trip on the calm waters of the Kolpa River, perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Cycling around Metlika
Cycle through picturesque landscapes and vineyards surrounding Metlika, with various trails catering to all skill levels.
Cultural Tour of Metlika
Visit local historical sites, including Metlika Castle and the Museum of Tax Administration, while enjoying the outdoors.
Bird Watching at the Kolpa River
Join a bird-watching excursion along the riverbanks to observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Metlika with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Kolpa River Viewpoint
A picturesque viewpoint overlooking the serene Kolpa River, ideal for capturing stunning sunsets and the surrounding nature.
Metlika Castle
This historical castle offers panoramic views of Metlika and the surrounding landscape, perfect for both photography and exploring the site.
Museum of Tapistries
While primarily a museum, the exterior and nearby gardens offer charming photography spots highlighting traditional craftsmanship.
Church of St. Nicholas
The church's tower provides a great vantage point for capturing the beauty of Metlika and the surrounding hills.
Lake Metlika
A tranquil lake setting that offers reflections of the sky and surrounding nature, ideal for landscape photography.
Metlika Vineyard Trails
Explore the vineyard paths which provide scenic views of the rolling hills and is particularly beautiful during harvest season.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Belokranjska Pogača
A traditional round flatbread topped with oil and various toppings such as onions, walnuts, and lard. It's a staple dish that can be found in most local bakeries and markets.
Must-Try!
Belokranjska Povitica
A rolled pastry filled with a sweet walnut or tarragon filling. It's a popular dessert available in local pastry shops and cafes.
Metliška Črnina
A rich traditional stew made from duck or goose meat, cooked with red wine, and seasoned with herbs. It's a specialty dish served in many local restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Metlika better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Metlika Open Market
Visit the open market in the town center to discover a variety of fresh local produce, homemade cheeses, bread, and pastries. You can also find street food vendors offering grilled sausages and traditional pastries.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
When meeting someone in Metlika, a firm handshake is common. It is polite to greet others with a friendly 'Dober dan' (Good day) and maintain eye contact during the handshake.
Dining Etiquette
If invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets. Wait for the host to begin the meal and avoid starting to eat before they do.
Punctuality
Being on time is highly valued in Slovenian culture, including Metlika. Whether for social or professional meetings, try to arrive at the agreed time to show respect for the other person's time.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Metlika with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Metlika, Slovenia, tipping is generally not obligatory but is appreciated. It is common to round up the bill in restaurants or to leave small change. In more upscale dining settings, a tip of around 10% is customary if the service is exceptional.
Payment
Payment practices in Metlika typically involve cash, with the Euro being the accepted currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants and shops. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Metlika.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Metlika, Slovenia typically runs from March to May. During this season, the weather becomes milder, with blooming flowers and greenery. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling, and local festivals that celebrate the arrival of warmer weather. Expect occasional rain but generally pleasant temperatures.
Summer
Summer lasts from June to August and is the warmest time to visit Metlika. Visitors can expect long sunny days, ideal for exploring the picturesque countryside, relaxing by the Kolpa River, and participating in outdoor sports. Various cultural events and wine festivals also occur during this vibrant season, making it a lively time to experience local traditions.
Autumn
Autumn, from September to November, showcases stunning fall foliage in Metlika. The temperatures are cooler, offering a comfortable climate for hiking and sightseeing. This season is also known for its harvest festivals, where visitors can sample local wines and traditional dishes. As the leaves change color, the scenery is particularly beautiful.
Winter
Winter in Metlika spans from December to February, bringing cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. While this is a quieter time for tourism, visitors can enjoy winter activities such as skiing in nearby regions. The charming town becomes cozy, and holiday festivities provide a unique cultural experience. Expect fewer tourists and a serene atmosphere.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Vogel
A popular mountain area offering stunning views of the Julian Alps and Lake Bohinj, with numerous hiking trails for various skill levels.
Triglav National Park
Slovenia's only national park, featuring diverse landscapes, challenging hikes, and the opportunity to see diverse flora and fauna.
Snežnik
A mountain characterized by its scenic forests and panoramic views, offering trails for both hiking and nature walks.
Mokrice Golf Course Hike
A unique hiking experience that combines nature and a golf course environment, catering to those looking for a leisurely hike.
Kupa River Trail
A scenic trail following the Kupa River, ideal for easy hikes along the water with beautiful views and relaxing spots.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Metlika through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Metlika by plane.
Zagreb Airport (ZAG)
The main international airport serving Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, located approximately 120 km from Metlika.
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
The main international airport serving Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, located about 130 km from Metlika.
Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport (TRS)
An international airport located in Italy, approximately 150 km from Metlika.
Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)
An international airport located in Venice, Italy, about 250 km from Metlika.
Graz Airport (GRZ)
An international airport serving Graz, Austria, located roughly 140 km from Metlika.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Slovenians
The majority ethnic group, constituting a significant portion of the population in Metlika.
Croats
A notable minority group due to the geographical proximity to Croatia.
Serbs
Another minority group in Metlika, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Hungarians
Present in smaller numbers, reflecting the historical connections with the Hungarian community.
Others
Includes various other smaller ethnicities and migrant communities.
The Soul of Metlika
Discover the essence of Metlika through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is extremely popular in Metlika, with local clubs and teams actively participating in leagues and community events.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Metlika, with various teams and youth programs available for aspiring players.
Handball
Handball is a well-practiced sport in the region, with several clubs offering training and competition at different levels.
Athletics
Athletics is promoted through local sport organizations, encouraging participation in running, jumping, and throwing events.
Cycling
Cycling is popular in Metlika, both as a recreational activity and competitive sport, taking advantage of scenic routes surrounding the area.
Volleyball
Volleyball has a strong local development with community clubs fostering skills and competitive play among residents.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Slovenian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants in Metlika offer vegetarian alternatives such as fresh salads, vegetable stews, and grilled vegetables. Some places also serve vegan-friendly dishes upon request.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free dishes and pastries in select restaurants and cafes. It's advisable to inquire about gluten-free options in advance to ensure availability.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Metlika with these cultural adventures.
