Grožnjan

Grožnjan is what happens when artists take over an abandoned medieval village. In the 1960s, this hilltop town was nearly empty. Then musicians and painters moved in, and now every other building is a gallery or studio.

What Makes It Special

It’s tiny — you can walk the whole town in 15 minutes — but it’s full of character. Stone streets, views over the Mirna valley, cats sleeping on windowsills, music drifting from open doors. In summer, young musicians come from all over Europe for music workshops, so you’ll hear classical and jazz floating through the streets.

My Tips

Visit on a summer evening. The town comes alive when the heat fades. Galleries stay open late, and there’s often live music.

Jazz is Back festival — if you’re here in July/August, check the dates. Jazz concerts in the town square under the stars.

Browse the galleries. Some are tourist trinkets, but some are genuinely good. The ceramics and paintings by local artists make great souvenirs.

Have a drink with a view. There’s a terrace bar near the town gate with views across the valley. Perfect for an aperitivo.

Combine It With

Grožnjan is close to Motovun — do both in one day. Start with Motovun for lunch (truffles!), then come to Grožnjan in the late afternoon. The drive between them is beautiful, through vineyards and hilltop villages.

About an hour from the house.