Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Portoroz. Portoroz Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of POW:
- Can you legally enter Slovenia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Local Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Portoroz Airport to Downtown
From POW, the Local Bus gets you to Portoroz in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to See and Do in Portoroz
Two recommendations for your time in Portoroz:
Start with Piran Old Town & Tartini Square. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Then, if time allows, make your way to Portoroz Promenade & Beach. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at POW, check out Airport Cafe & Lounge Area or Aircraft Spotting & Views to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Fritolin pri Cantini and Gostilna Pirat Portorož are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Portoroz.
- At the airport: Airport Cafe & Bakery Counter and Terminal Grab-and-Go Snacks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Portoroz Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Portoroz, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage at POW
Dedicated luggage storage at POW may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Portoroz’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at POW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Portoroz or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at POW include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Slovenia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Portoroz doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from POW, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.