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Metlika
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Landmark
Metlika is an appealing town in the heart of the Bela Krajina region, situated right on the border with Croatia. The townscape is dominated by the medieval Metlika Castle, which now serves as the Bela Krajina Museum, displaying the region's rich archaeological, historical, and ethnographic heritage. A unique local pride is the Slovenian Fire Brigade Museum, honoring the fact that the nation's first voluntary fire brigade was established here in 1869. The town is the center of the local wine industry, with numerous cellars offering tastings of the renowned Metliška Črnina red wine. Every May, Metlika hosts 'Vinska vigred', one of Slovenia's premier wine festivals, attracting visitors from all over. The nearby Kolpa River provides a scenic backdrop for summer swimming and boating. The best time to visit is late spring for the festivals or during the summer months to enjoy the river. Metlika is an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the authentic rural culture of southeastern Slovenia, including tasting the traditional Belokranjska pogača flatbread.
- Location: Slovenia
- Top sights: Belokranjski muzej Metlika · Perišče Obrh
- Nearby: Črnomelj (13 km)
- Population: ~3.206 (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 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 11 | 15 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 16 | 11 | 6 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 77 | 87 | 77 | 86 | 107 | 90 | 78 | 92 | 130 | 109 | 116 | 89 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Metlika's historic center, castle, and fire brigade museum are open to the public. The castle houses museum exhibits, while the fire museum is a separate indoor attraction.
Typical hours
The castle museum and fire brigade museum typically operate during standard daytime hours. Exact times may vary by season; check locally.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed inside the castle and museum, but flash may be restricted in certain areas. Outdoor photos of the castle and old town are very rewarding.
Time needed
Plan for about half a day to explore the castle, museum, and wander the old town. Add time for wine tasting if interested.
Combine with
Combine with a visit to a local wine cellar or the nearby Kolpa River for swimming. Also close to the town of Črnomelj.
Getting there
Metlika is accessible by car from Ljubljana (about 1.5 hours) or by bus from Novo Mesto. Parking is available near the castle.
Insider tip
Try the local Bela Krajina wine varieties and ask for a tasting at a wine shop. The fire brigade museum is a unique highlight for families.
Geography
Facts
- Location: Bela Krajina
- Metlika Castle (Museum)
- First Slovenian fire brigade
- Wine hub (Vinska vigred)
- Near Kolpa River
- Food: Belokranjska pogača
- Border town with Croatia
- Medieval old town
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 Metlika (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important sight in Metlika?
Metlika Castle, which now houses the Bela Krajina Museum.
Is there a fire brigade museum?
Yes, Slovenia's first fire brigade was founded in Metlika in 1869, hence it hosts the Slovenian Fire Brigade Museum.
What is the biggest wine festival in Metlika?
Vinska Vigred is the largest wine festival in Bela Krajina, held annually in May.
Which wine is typical for Metlika?
Metliška črnina, a protected dry red wine made from a blend of different grape varieties.
Is there sacred art nearby?
The three churches of Tri Fare near Metlika form a unique architectural ensemble.
Metlika: where is it located?
Metlika is located in Slovenia.
Metlika: what is there to see?
Highlights include Belokranjski muzej Metlika, Perišče Obrh.
Metlika: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Metlika: why is it worth visiting?
Metlika is an appealing town in the heart of the Bela Krajina region, situated right on the border with Croatia.
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