Kostanjevica na Krki what to see | Ideas for trips around Slovenia

Are you planning a visit to Kostanjevica na Krki and you are asking yourself what is there to see? Read more about one of our many ideas for trips around Slovenia.

It was the first time visit for both of us and we absolutely loved it! Kostajevica na Krki is the smallest and one of the oldest towns in Slovenia and the locals are proud of this wonder of nature. Why do we call it a beautiful wonder of nature? Because the old part of the city is an island, situated on the Krka river.

The city structure with two parallel streets has been preserved to this day and the city is declared as a cultural monument and fully protected. Because of its location on the river, the city gets flooded often, and sometimes the only possible way to get around is by boat. Kostanjevica na Krki is also called »Slovenian Venice«.

What to see in Kostanjevivca na Krki

We were surprised by the big number of activities in this area, you won’t get bored here, that’s for sure:

Stroll the town – Kostanjevica na Krki what to see

This was one of the first things we did when we arrived at Kostanjevica na Krki. The island is 500 meters long and about 200 meters wide. Through the island you have two parallel streets so you can’t get lost, 2 bridges for cars, and one for pedestrians. You can admire two churches on the island and have a coffee in the cute little city square.

Chill on the city beach and relax in the Beach bar

The second thing we did was finding the Beach bar, which spoiled us with wonderful views of the Krka River and the city itself. They serve beers and other refreshments, you can enjoy them sitting in beach chairs on the river shore. The bar is actually a cool American trailer and their taste of music is very good.

It was already a bit cold to enjoy the beach, but in the summer months, it has to be awesome. The city beach is located just next to the Beach bar.

See the city from another perspective

From another perspective, I mean water of course. Krka river is the second-longest river in Slovenia and because of its calm river flow, it is perfect for all kinds of water activities.

The idea of renting a boat and circle the island by ourselves sounded quite exciting for us! Unfortunately, we arrived after hard rain so the river wasn’t as calm as it usually is and it wasn’t safe for us to do it. Because we didn’t want to end up flushed by the river to another city, which is about 20 km away, we postponed this activity for next time.

You have various water transportation options to enjoy rides around Kostanjevica island.

Visit Bozidar Jakac gallery – Kostanjevica na Krki what to see

One of the largest Slovenian galleries came to life in 1974 in a renovated former Cistercian monastery in Kostanjevica na Krki. There you will find the most art collection from Slovene expressionists and other occasional exhibitions. We love the massive park outside, which is full of wooden sculptures, all of them are part of the Forma viva sculpture park.

Entrance: adults: 6€; Students, children, and seniors: 4€

Opening hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00

Visit Kostanjevica cave – Kostanjevica na Krki what to see

On the day of our visit, the cave was unfortunately closed but the place was still worth the visit! Nature there is beautiful, so we explored the surroundings.

Kostanjevica Cave is the longest and biggest cave system in this region and it is known as a home to many bats. Bats go to sleep during the winter months, so the cave is closed as well.

You can reach the cave by bicycle, on foot or by car. The paths through the cave are arranged in such a way that they are suitable for all ages. A guided tour with expert explanations lasts for about 40 minutes. The cave has a constant temperature of 12 degrees.

Entrance: adults: 10€; Children: 5€

Opening hours: July – August: every day at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00; between 15th of April and 31st October only on Saturday, Sundays and holidays.

Admire the second biggest Oak tree in Slovenia

You will find this magnificent Oak tree in a village called Malenci, which is very close to Kostanjevica na Krki. On the way, you will see many greenhouses, where locals grow their own vegetables, quite impressive. We were there in October, which is quite cold already but they still grew tomatoes, peppers, raspberries, and so on. A nice thing to see.

Soon you will reach the village, which is on the edge of the Krakov forest, the Oak tree will be on your left. It will blow your mind. This magnificent tree (Quercus Robur) is over 300 years old and it is one of the three most powerful Oak trees in Slovenia.

Go to the Uskok tower – Kostanjevica na Krki what to see

This beautiful cultural heritage of the Uskok people was built at the end of the 15th century and it’s the only of its kind in Slovenia. The former border guard tower from the time of Turkish invasions stands on a small hill in Crneca vas.

When the tower lost the guarding task, the locals preserved it and later build a bell in it, which rang every day and on special occasions. Through the centuries it became a recognizable symbol of the village and at the same time a heritage for the Uskok people who fled from the Ottoman military to safer areas, including this one.

The tower visit is for free, you can enter by yourself, after climbing a couple of stairs you will get to the top. The bells are still there and you can make a wish and ring them.

Observe the views from St. Mohor and Fortunate Church

From the Uskok tower, you can take a walk uphill towards the St. Mohor church and enjoy the views on the vineyards all around you. It is an easy and beautiful 10 minutes walk.

Where to eat in Kostanjevica na Krki

Recomended places to eat in Kostanjevica na Krki:

Kralj Matjaz

A pizza place with good service, local drinks, craft beer, and really good pizza dough, which they ferment twice and it literally melts in your mouth. You can choose from different types of pizzas, they are all made in the brick oven. They also have vegan pizza with vegan cheese, which we tried and it was delicious.

Gostilna Zolnir

Gostilna Zolnir with a rich family tradition offers traditional Slovenian dishes, international dishes, and seasonal dishes. Their kitchen is based on local ingredients from this area. We loved their grilled trout with potatoes. On Sundays, they also serve lunch menus.

Where we stayed in Kostanjevica na Krki

We stayed in a very nice B&B villa, Vila Castanea. This villa is located on the island, they have very clean and very spacious rooms. The breakfast is absolutely delicious, mostly local products, we loved the raspberries and yogurt a lot! The staff was incredibly welcoming and helpful.

Totally recommend this place!

A romantic weekend getaway

That’s what we called our trip to Kostanjevica na Krki. The word romance describes this lovely place the best. Green vineyards, cute wooden bridges, a beautiful river, and picturesque streets just waiting for couples to stroll there hand by hand.