Plizio Visual Lab
Kostanjevica na Krki
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Kostanjevica na Krki is a captivating architectural gem, uniquely built on an island in a loop of the Krka River. Due to its scenic setting, it is often called the 'Slovenian Venice'. The town's cultural centerpiece is the former Cistercian monastery, now home to the Božidar Jakac Gallery, one of Slovenia's largest and most prominent art museums, featuring remarkable arcaded courtyards. Surrounding the monastery is the 'Forma Viva' sculpture park, an open-air collection of over 100 monumental oak wood sculptures created by artists from across the globe. Near the town, visitors can also explore the Kostanjevica Cave, known for its rich stalactite and stalagmite formations. The gentle Krka River is well-suited for boating and relaxing by the water. While in the area, a taste of Cviček wine, the region's unique light red wine, is a must. The best time for a visit is between May and September, when the outdoor sculpture park is at its finest. Kostanjevica na Krki has an excellent blend of high culture and serene river landscapes, making it a favorite for art lovers and peace-seekers alike.
- Location: Slovenia
- Top sights: Kostanjeviška jama · Galerija Božidar Jakac (Former Monastary Fons Beatae Mariae)
- Nearby: Krško (14 km)
- Population: ~695 (2026)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 16 | 11 | 5 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 56 | 68 | 64 | 73 | 100 | 92 | 89 | 94 | 119 | 93 | 92 | 70 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
This tiny island town is completely walkable and open to the public. Main attractions include the former monastery and art collections, which can be visited indoors.
Typical hours
The monastery and galleries typically open during standard daytime hours; exact times vary seasonally. It is recommended to check locally or on the official website.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed in public areas and the monastery courtyard. Inside the art gallery, flash may be restricted to protect artworks.
Time needed
Allow about two to three hours to explore the island and its art treasures. A half-day trip is sufficient for a leisurely visit.
Combine with
Combine with the nearby town of Krško or a boat ride on the Krka River. The Novo Mesto region is also easily accessible.
Getting there
Accessible by car via a bridge from the mainland. Public buses serve the area, but a car features more flexibility.
Insider tip
Visit during spring or autumn for the most pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Don't miss the easy on the eye view of the island from the riverbank.
Geography
Facts
- Location: Island on Krka River
- Slovenia's smallest town
- Slovenian Venice
- Božidar Jakac Gallery
- Forma Viva sculpture park
- Cistercian abbey (1234)
- Kostanjevica Cave
- Wine region (Cviček)
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kostanjevica na Krki (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the old town really on an island?
Yes, the historical old town is located on an artificial island in the Krka River.
What is the most important sight?
The Kostanjevica Monastery with the Božidar Jakac Gallery is a cultural highlight.
Can you go boating on the Krka?
Yes, canoeing and stand-up paddling are very popular on the river in summer.
Are there parking spaces nearby?
There are free parking spaces right at the entrance to the island town.
Is the Kostanjevica cave far away?
The cave is only about 2 km away from the town center.
Kostanjevica na Krki: where is it located?
Kostanjevica na Krki is located in Slovenia.
Kostanjevica na Krki: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kostanjeviška jama, Galerija Božidar Jakac (Former Monastary Fons Beatae Mariae).
Kostanjevica na Krki: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kostanjevica na Krki: why is it worth visiting?
Kostanjevica na Krki is a captivating architectural gem, uniquely built on an island in a loop of the Krka River.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Slovenia →
Nearby cities
Novo Mesto
Novo Mesto is the economic and cultural center of the Dolenjska region.
Velenje
Velenje is located in the Savinja Valley and is one of Slovenia's major industrial centers.
Ptuj
Ptuj is the oldest documented city in Slovenia and boasts a rich Roman past.
Trbovlje
Trbovlje is an industrial city in the Sava Valley known for its long mining tradition.
Kamnik
Kamnik is a historic town at the foot of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps.
Domžale
Domžale is located north of Ljubljana at the foothills of the Kamnik Alps.
Škofja Loka
Škofja Loka is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia.
Škofja Loka Medieval Town
Škofja Loka is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia and boasts a history of over a thousand years.
Logatec
Logatec is located on a strategic route between Ljubljana and the Adriatic coast.
Vrhnika
Vrhnika is located at the western edge of the Ljubljana Marshes and is best known as the birthplace of the writer Ivan Cankar.
Kočevje
Kočevje is located in the heart of Slovenia's most extensive forest area.
Slovenj Gradec
Slovenj Gradec is the administrative center of the Slovenian Carinthia region.
Grosuplje
Grosuplje is located in the Lower Carniola region.
Ravne na Koroškem
Ravne na Koroškem is the largest town in the Slovenian Carinthia region and is known for its steel industry.
Krško
Krško is an industrial city in eastern Slovenia on the Sava River.
History & landmarks
BTC City Ljubljana
BTC City is one of the largest business, shopping, and entertainment centers in Europe.
Ljubljana Town Hall
The Town Hall on Town Square in Ljubljana is the seat of the city municipality.
Postojna
Postojna is a strategically important town in the Slovenian Karst region, globally famous as the gateway to one of Europe's largest and m…
Postojna Cave
Postojna Cave is a breathtaking 24 km long system of karst passages and chambers, famously explored via a unique underground electric train.
Brezice
Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Krka rivers, Brezice is famous for its grand Renaissance castle and the iconic historic water …
Bela Krajina
A picturesque border region in southeastern Slovenia, known for its white birches, the green Kolpa River, and rich folklore.
Metlika
The historic center of Bela Krajina, famous for its castle, winemaking tradition, and the first Slovenian fire brigade museum.
