Things To Do
in Velika Polana
Velika Polana is a small, quiet town in the Prekmurje region of northeastern Slovenia, known for its flat, agricultural landscape, meandering Mura River and strong local traditions. It is the birthplace of Slovenian writer Miško Kranjec and retains an authentic rural atmosphere with traditional farmsteads and small family-run inns. The area is a gateway to wetlands, birdwatching sites and gentle hill country like the Goričko and Lendavske gorice, making it appealing for slow travel and nature lovers.
Velika Polana is ideal for travelers seeking low-key cultural experiences, regional cuisine and easy access to nearby thermal spas and regional centers like Murska Sobota and Lendava.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Velika Polana by strolling through the quaint village, where you can admire the traditional architecture and lush countryside. Visit local artisan shops to discover handmade crafts and enjoy a warm cup of coffee at a cozy café. The morning sun brings a serene atmosphere perfect for photography and getting to know the friendly locals.
After lunch, take a guided walking tour to learn about the village's unique history and cultural heritage. Stop by the local museum to see exhibitions showcasing the area's traditions and agricultural practices. Engage with the locals as you explore the surrounding landscape, where fields of flowers and rolling hills create a picturesque backdrop.
As the sun begins to set, gather around a traditional Slovenian dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes like štruklji and homemade wine. Enjoy the sounds of folk music that often resonate through the village as locals and tourists alike come together for an evening of relaxation. Weather permitting, consider an evening walk under the stars to take in the peaceful ambience of Velika Polana.
Rise early to embark on a guided hike in Goričko Landscape Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The fresh morning air will invigorate you as you explore scenic trails that wind through forests, meadows, and valleys. As you hike, keep an eye out for local wildlife and picturesque viewpoints perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
Pause for a packed lunch at a scenic overlook where you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape. The area is filled with stories of nature, and an outdoor picnic allows you to appreciate the peaceful surroundings even more. After lunch, continue your hike to explore hidden gems like ancient ruins or a serene pond, enhancing your connection to nature.
Return to Velika Polana in the evening, where you can relax and discuss the day's adventures with fellow travelers. Enjoy dinner at an authentic farm-to-table restaurant, where you can taste local seasonal produce and specialties. As night falls, partake in a traditional folklore evening, featuring storytelling and Slovenian music that will provide a captivating end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee (cappuccino or espresso) | $1.50-3 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5 L) | $2-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $4-8 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse / double room | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural atmosphere and strong local traditions
- Great for birdwatching, cycling and gentle outdoor activities
- Close to thermal spas and nearby regional centers
- Low tourist crowds — good for slow travel and relaxation
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options in the town itself
- Public transport is sparse; a car makes exploration easier
- Fewer dining and accommodation choices compared with larger towns
- Seasonal services may be reduced in winter
- "Dober dan" - Good day / Hello
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Prosim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kje je ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Govorite angleško?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Velika Polana
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, slow river bends and wetlands provide excellent landscape photography at sunrise and sunset, with reflections and abundant birdlife.
Well-preserved rural architecture and painted façades present charming subjects for street and detail photography.
Cultural and historical buildings that capture the literary heritage and everyday life of the town.
Gentle hilltops offer panoramic views over vineyards, fields and patchwork landscapes ideal for wide-angle shots.
Close encounters with waterbirds and migratory species; bring a telephoto lens and a tripod for low light.
Food in Velika Polana
Velika Polana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A multi-layered cake with poppy seed, walnut, apple and quark layers — the region’s signature dessert; found in local bakeries and family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
A thick, paprika-rich meat stew similar to Hungarian goulash, often served with fresh bread — available at traditional gostilnas.
Rolled dumplings filled with savory or sweet fillings (cheese, tarragon or walnuts); a common homemade and restaurant offering.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small local markets sell seasonal produce, cheeses, smoked meats and baked goods — a great place to try fresh curd cheese, local sausages and sweet pastries.
Seasonal stalls along country roads offering fresh fruit, honey and homemade preserves — bring cash and a reusable bag.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use a polite greeting such as 'Dober dan' (Good day) when entering shops or meeting locals; a handshake is standard for first-time meetings.
Follow posted rules in nature reserves, do not litter and respect private farmland — Slovenia places high value on preserving natural spaces.
Dress modestly for church visits and be polite and reserved in public settings; small-town communities appreciate courteous behavior.
Many locals speak Slovenian and some older residents may speak Hungarian or local dialects; attempting a few local phrases is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Velika Polana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory — leaving 5–10% in restaurants for good service is common; round up taxi fares and tip small amounts for helpful guides or hotel staff.
Slovenia uses the euro. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger towns, hotels and restaurants, but small markets, rural stalls and some family-run inns may prefer cash — keep some euros on hand and use ATMs in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Fields and wetlands revive with flowers and migratory birds; weather can be changeable — bring a waterproof layer and good walking shoes for muddy trails.
Warm, often sunny and pleasantly long days ideal for cycling, birdwatching and outdoor dining; expect mosquitoes near wetlands and bring sunscreen.
Harvest season brings colorful fields and wine tastings in nearby hills; cooler temperatures and crisp mornings make for excellent photography.
Cold and quiet with occasional snow; many attractions are low-key but the landscape can be beautiful for long exposure shots — some services and small businesses may have reduced hours.
Velika Polana at Night
Hiking in Velika Polana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat walking paths along the Mura floodplain with interpretive signs, birdwatching hides and easy terrain suitable for all fitness levels.
A network of marked trails across rolling hills, meadows and woodlands with viewpoints, traditional farms and biodiversity hotspots.
Hills and vineyard trails near Lendava offering short hikes, cellar visits and panoramic views over the Pannonian plain.
Short mapped walks around Velika Polana that pass through fields, orchards and small hamlets — ideal for half-day explorations.
Airports
How to reach Velika Polana by plane.
Slovenia’s main international airport (approx. 1.5–2 hours by car); good flight connections and car rental options to reach Velika Polana by road.
Major international hub in neighboring Croatia (approx. 1.5–2 hours by car depending on border crossing); often convenient for low-cost flights and offers road connections to Prekmurje.
A closer airport in Austria (approx. 1.5–2 hours by car); can be a good option for regional flights and driving into northeastern Slovenia.
A smaller regional airport with limited connections; practical if schedules align, followed by a drive or bus to Velika Polana.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are ethnic Slovenes, especially those rooted in farming and local trades.
Prekmurje has a historical Hungarian influence and a Hungarian-speaking minority in some communities; Hungarian culture and language can still be encountered in the region.
The town has a significant proportion of long-term rural families and older residents, contributing to traditional ways of life and community continuity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and community teams are popular and provide social and sporting events throughout the year.
Both recreational and touring cycling are common on quiet country roads and levees, with marked routes across the region.
Angling on the Mura River and local ponds is a traditional pastime among residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Velika Polana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited in small inns; many places will offer cheese-based dishes, salads and egg/pasta options — ask in advance and be prepared to eat dairy- and egg-heavy meals.
Vegan choices are scarce in rural eateries; bring snacks and check menus in Murska Sobota or request vegetable-focused dishes at larger restaurants.
Awareness of gluten-free diets is growing but still limited in small towns; discuss needs with hosts and favor naturally gluten-free options like meats, salads and vegetable dishes.