Top adventures
Info Tip of the month Weather Events
Top adventures
x

January 2025

GO! 2025 Nova Gorica - Gorizia

The first Cross-Border European Capital of Culture

The grand opening of the European Capital of Culture on February 8, 2025—Slovenia’s Cultural Day—will kick off a dynamic and eventful year, symbolically uniting the cities of Nova Gorica and Gorizia with a showstopping programme extravaganza. For the first time, the celebration will take place without border divisions, embracing an inspiring vision of coexistence between two cities and two cultures.

Go borderless!

The tale of these two cities is astonishing. Nova Gorica, built virtually from the ground up, emerged in the aftermath of World War II to serve as the region’s administrative and cultural hub after Gorizia stayed on the Italian side of the newly drawn border. Thus, Slovenia’s youngest city—now over seventy years old—gradually grew on one side of the border, while on the other side, a city steeped in history, going back to 1001 AD according to written accounts, had to come to terms with being cut off from its natural hinterland. As a result, Nova Gorica and Gorizia evolved side by side in two different worlds for several decades. However, in the wake of the European effort to redefine national borders, the divide between the two cities was gradually erased.

In today’s world, the coming together of these two cities as the first cross-border European Capital of Culture is particularly poignant. GO borderless! (Gremo čezmejno!) is therefore a powerful call to a brighter future between nations. In 2025, the twin cities and the region at large will play host to dozens of concerts, performances, exhibitions, and events, spanning everything from classical to contemporary and futuristic styles. It will mark a unique celebration of creativity, connection, mutual respect, and laying the foundation for a shared future. Discover the details of the opening programme from Station to Station and stay up to date with the vibrant GO! 2025 event schedule at this link.

Welcome!

The people of Nova Gorica and the Vipava Valley are excited to share their rich cultural heritage, local flavours, and authentic experiences with other visitors of the European Capital of Culture. Moreover, the European Capital of Culture also boasts an amazing natural backdrop. Set at the intersection of the Mediterranean, Dinaric, and Alpine worlds, the region captivates the eye with its varied terrain and natural beauty. Don’t miss the stories behind the cultural landmarks that will help you understand the context in which the unique cultural characteristics of this area developed. The historical events that shaped what is today’s Capital of Culture, spanning from Roman times, through the region-defining medieval period, to the turbulent 20th century, have left an enduring mark on the landscape. 

Equally diverse and rich is the local cuisine that sprang up at this crossroad of cultures and fertile junction of geological worlds. Welcome to a wine country par excellence, overflowing with locally sourced delicacies and exceptional restaurants. Want to discover even more after attending a remarkable cultural event? You are more than welcome to take your time and stay a few days longer. Local guides will be happy to take you on unforgettable outdoor sojourns, to ancient villages and landmarks, down to musty wine cellars, and for tasty homestyle delicacies. This place has something for everyone—always authentic, with a charmingly laid-back attitude to life and plenty of smiles.

Plan ahead and book early!

Nova Gorica and the Vipava Valley are popular destinations year-round, so booking your accommodation early is essential. In the same vein, we recommend booking wine tastings and guided experiences in advance. For more information and help with planning your visit to the Capital of Culture and the surrounding region, our Tourist Information Centres are at your service.

Welcome to the Paradise Valley! Experience the difference. Go borderless!