The Slovenian coastal town of Koper, often described as a hidden gem of the Adriatic, is experiencing a rise in giant cruise ships descending on its fragile historic centre. These ships are bringing thousands of tourists to a city ill-equipped to cope with the volume of visitors.

Once a quiet port with a medieval old town and a population of just 25,000, Koper has become an increasingly popular stop for cruise liners touring the Adriatic. According to Slovenia’s national statistics office, the city welcomed 73 cruise ships in 2024, carrying more than 125,000 passengers — a 4 % rise from the previous year. Yet across all Slovenian ports, cruise traffic is down 7%, meaning Koper is absorbing almost the entire burden alone.

While critics argue that cruise arrivals often benefit the cruise lines more than the towns themselves, especially when passengers don’t stay long or spend much.

One visitor posted on Reddit: "We were there on a Sunday and nearly everything seemed to be closed, so we had a quick wander and had a drink in a cafe and then just went back to the ship. I have no idea what else there is to see and do there, as there wasn’t much on offer as far as excursions went."