European Capital of Culture 2025 Nova Gorica and Gorizia (Go! 2025): Creative and Innovative Tourism Products

Activities for the European Capital of Culture 2025 Go!2025 are in full swing, with the region already developing numerous fascinating tourism products that combine local heritage, innovation, and natural beauty. In addition to Nova Gorica, the central hub of events in Slovenia, nearby regions like the stunning Soča Valley are actively participating in the program, known for their adrenaline-packed activities and natural wonders.

As part of the Go! 2025 project, a variety of unique tourism products are being developed to provide visitors with novel ways to experience the region. The Nova Gorica and Vipava Valley Tourism Board is working on creative offerings such as:

1. Rose cookies, inspired by roses, the symbol of Nova Gorica,
2. The Smuggling Tour, an immersive experience that takes visitors back to the days of smuggling across the border,
3. Castle Quest, an interactive adventure combining castle exploration with fun challenge
4. A VR paragliding experience, allowing visitors to virtually enjoy the freedom of soaring above the Vipava Valley and its surrounding hills.

One of the standout projects is the cross-border hiking route from Aquileia to Sveta Gora named Goriški Camino, presented by Nace Novak and Mattia Vecchi. This hiking trail transcends borders, connecting people through remarkable cultural and natural heritage in Italy and Slovenia. Details about the route can be found on the official website www.itergoritiense.eu. The Camino offers a chance to explore the region at a slower pace, dive into its history and discover local stories.

A crucial aspect of the preparations for Go! 2025 is the digital platform www.go2025.eu. The portal allows providers to easily register events and tourism offers, while users can access a comprehensive overview of activities and attractions in the region.

Over the past decade (2014–2024), the following cities have been designated as European Capitals of Culture:

• 2014: Umeå (Sweden) and Riga (Latvia)
• 2015: Mons (Belgium) and Plzeň (Czech Republic)
• 2016: San Sebastián (Spain) and Wrocław (Poland)
• 2017: Aarhus (Denmark) and Paphos (Cyprus)
• 2018: Leeuwarden (Netherlands) and Valletta (Malta)
• 2019: Matera (Italy) and Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
• 2020: Rijeka (Croatia) and Galway (Ireland)
• 2021: Timișoara (Romania), Elefsina (Greece), and Novi Sad (Serbia)
• 2022: Kaunas (Lithuania) and Esch-sur-Alzette (Luxembourg)
• 2023: Veszprém (Hungary)
• 2024: Bad Ischl (Austria), Tartu (Estonia), and Bodø (Norway)

These cities were selected to showcase and promote the richness and diversity of cultures across Europe. Each designation provides an opportunity for the cities to boost their cultural, social, and economic development.

We warmly invite you to experience European Capital of Culture 2025 Go!2025 in Slovenia and Italy, where culture, innovation, and nature come together to create unforgettable memories. Discover Nova Gorica, explore the Vipava Valley, and don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the nearby breathtaking Soča Valley. From adrenaline-filled adventures to serene hiking trails and unique cultural tradition, the Soča Valley offers something for every visitor. Some of our offerings in the Soča Valley:

• Cheese Tasting in Soča Valley
• Delavnica filcanja
• Delavnica risanja
• Castles Secrets Journey
• Caving in Dante Alighieri Cave
• Hiking in Triglav National Park
• Soča River Rafting

Go! 2025 promises to be a celebration of connection, creativity, and discovery. Contact us on info@dolinasoce.si.