When the days begin to shorten and the leaves start to turn yellow, we know that autumn has arrived. Portorož and Piran shine in a special light during this brief time between summer and winter.
The crowds fade away, the sea air turns fresh yet gentle, and everything slows down just enough for us to once again savor the simple moments of everyday life.
Why is Istria the perfect place for a family getaway in autumn?
In autumn, Portorož and Piran offer a peaceful and welcoming setting for a family getaway. The temperatures are just right for long walks, and many paths are suitable for strollers and small children. If you set off from Lucija towards Piran, you’ll find plenty of stops along the way to capture the kids’ attention — from playgrounds and parks to cozy cafés perfect for a short break.
In Lucija, children of all ages will love Park Sonce, with its fenced playground for the youngest visitors, bike and scooter track, and plenty of open space for running and exploring.
The seaside path from Lucija to Piran seems made for family walks — calm, scenic, and safe. Portorož impresses with its variety of restaurants and cafés, and as Piran appears on the horizon, the walk turns into a little adventure. A few more steps, and you’ll find yourself in narrow cobbled streets where every turn and staircase tells a new story.
For longer distances, we recommend using public transport — buses are stroller-friendly, and tickets can easily be purchased on board or at ticket machines near major bus stops. You can find parking information and tips here, and if you’re traveling by car, there are well-organized parking areas near the main attractions, providing easy access to all key spots. You can check the parking price list here.
Comfort, creativity, and calm – for both children and parents
As the autumn school holidays approach, families often look for a place where they can unwind while giving their children plenty of space for fun and safe exploration.
For the autumn school holidays, LifeClass Hotels & Spa have prepared a special family package that includes free accommodation for two children up to 14.99 years, access to two swimming pool complexes, daily animation programs, and a lively Halloween Fest. Kids can enjoy face painting with brushes or compete to see who can carve the best pumpkin.
Children aged four and up can play, create, and make new friends at the Mini Club, while parents take a well-deserved break with a Thai massage at the newly renovated Wai Thai center.
Just a few minutes’ walk from the center of Portorož stands the Grand Hotel Bernardin, offering a breathtaking view of the sea. The hotel is a perfect choice for families looking for a balance between a peaceful setting and easy access to coastal paths and the lively town atmosphere.
Children will especially enjoy the indoor panoramic pool with heated seawater, while parents can take advantage of the wellness center Paradise Spa, which offers a wide range of massages and treatments for complete relaxation.
Hotel guests also enjoy complimentary access to the Sea Waterpark Termaris, located within the resort complex. It is the largest heated seawater pool complex in Slovenian Istria, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and fun for the whole family.
Wellness in Portorož isn’t just for adults — the little ones deserve their moment of relaxation too! At Terme Portorož, children can enjoy special wellness experiences such as colorful Bubble Me baths, warm coconut oil massages, and gentle salt inhalations. For families who wish to share the pampering together, private rooms with jacuzzis are also available.
Rainy days? Time for a different kind of adventure
Rainy days by the sea aren’t necessarily an obstacle — they can be a wonderful opportunity to experience the destination in a different way.
It’s the perfect time for new discoveries, memorable experiences, and those cozy corners where time seems to stand still.
One of the most popular family stops is the Piran Aquarium, where children can marvel at the colorful underwater world of the Adriatic Sea. Just a few steps away, the Magical World of Shells awaits — a fascinating collection of over four thousand shells, snails, and other marine treasures from around the globe.
Complete your visit with a stop at the Morigenos Dolphin Center, where children and adults alike can learn about the lives of these remarkable marine mammals through play and interactive exhibits. During the autumn holidays, the center hosts a special family event featuring a treasure hunt, creative workshops, and dolphin story writing.
All three locations — the Aquarium, the Shell Museum, and the Dolphin Center — are included in the Portorož & Piran Pass – Sea & Discover, which brings together the destination’s top attractions into a single, family-friendly ticket at a reduced price.
And when it’s time for something sweet, the local cafés and pastry shops offer a cozy retreat even on rainy days. Children will love the hot chocolate, ice cream, or pancakes, while parents can relax with a delicious drink. Sometimes, it’s exactly these quieter moments that make the day truly memorable.
Lunch with a view and a playground – ideas for family-friendly dining
When hunger strikes, it’s good to know that in Portorož and Piran you’ll have no trouble finding a place where everyone — even the youngest — feels comfortable. Most hotel restaurants offer kids’ menus, highchairs, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes families feel right at home.
In Piran, we recommend Fritolin pri Cantini — located on the quiet, traffic-free First of May Square, it’s perfect for children who love to run around while parents enjoy a peaceful lunch. Restaurants along the coastline are always a great choice too, as kids can explore the pebbly beaches and collect stones.
If you’re craving something classic, children will likely vote for a proper Neapolitan pizza from a wood-fired oven — just like the ones served at Pizzeria Vesuvio or Porto Konoba in Lucija.
And if your journey takes you inland, to Padna, make sure to stop at Gold Istra Restaurant, which features outdoor playgrounds — the perfect combination for a long, relaxed family meal where everyone gets to enjoy themselves.
Autumn adventures for all generations
If you love hiking, our destination is the perfect choice for you. Autumn in Portorož and Piran is made for walks. When you set out with children, you’ll quickly discover that every turn brings a new opportunity for play, exploration, or a pause on a bench overlooking the sea.
One of the most popular routes runs along the coast from Portorož to Piran. Flat, wide, and friendly to strollers and balance bikes, the path offers plenty of space for carefree steps — or for jumping into puddles after the rain.
For a calmer encounter with nature, head to the Seča peninsula, where a car-free path winds between olive trees and stone sculptures. Along the way, you’ll find an outdoor gym, a children’s playground, and peaceful views of the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park. For a shorter hiking experience, a favorite among families is the trail from Portorož to Fiesa, which continues at the foot of the picturesque cliffs all the way to Piran.
In addition to these popular walks, the destination also offers three marked circular trails around Piran, perfect for families with curious children and enough energy for a longer stroll:
- Sečovlje walking path
- Strunjan walking path
- Piran walking path
You can find trail maps on the information boards along the routes or at any Tourist Information Center (TIC).
When a little extra information comes in handy
On a family holiday, we all hope everything will go smoothly – but sometimes it’s good to know where to turn for help. In Portorož, Piran, and Lucija, you’ll find pharmacies offering basic supplies, over-the-counter medicines, and friendly advice. Nearby, there are also medical centers and clinics ready to assist you if needed.
For emergencies, the 24-hour pharmacy in Koper is always open, providing support even outside regular working hours.
Memories made slowly – with salt in the air and stories in your pocket
Autumn is the season when we return to our daily rhythm — but that’s exactly why we deserve a getaway that reconnects us. It’s the time of year when Portorož and Piran offer more than just a beautiful destination.
Lose yourself in the narrow, colorful streets of Piran, taste the famous Štor’ta cake, discover the underwater world and the realm of shells, enjoy strolls along the Portorož Riviera, and treat yourself to a cup of hot chocolate in one of the local cafés.
Autumn brings us back to routine — so let our destination be the one that gives you rest, connection, and time with your loved ones. Discover everything Portorož & Piran have to offer. And who knows — you might just leave with memories that will stay with you for a long time.
