Murska Sobota

Murska Sobota, the administrative and cultural heart of Prekmurje, is a city that combines centuries of history with a dynamic present. Its origins date back to medieval times, when it developed as a market town at the crossroads of important trade routes. Over the years, Murska Sobota has grown into a regional center known for its multicultural character, shaped by Slovenian, Hungarian, and other Central European influences.

The city’s most iconic landmark is Murska Sobota Castle (Soboški Grad), a Renaissance-Baroque manor set in the middle of a sprawling city park. The castle houses the Murska Sobota Regional Museum, which offers engaging exhibits on the history, ethnography, and art of Prekmurje, including displays on local crafts, folk traditions, and the area’s Jewish heritage. The surrounding park is a green oasis, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor events.

Another highlight is the innovative Expano pavilion, located by Sobota Lake on the city’s edge. This interactive visitor center showcases the natural and cultural wonders of the Pomurje region through multimedia exhibits, virtual reality experiences, and hands-on activities. Sobota Lake itself is a popular spot for recreation, offering swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and lakeside relaxation. The area around the lake is also equipped with walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, and open-air fitness facilities.

In the city center, visitors can admire the striking Evangelical Church, a neo-Gothic landmark, and explore Victory Square, which features a WWII memorial and lively cafés. The city’s markets and festivals celebrate Prekmurje’s agricultural bounty, with local specialties such as bograč (meat stew), dödöli (potato dumplings), and the famous Prekmurska gibanica pastry. Murska Sobota’s culinary scene is complemented by nearby wineries and farmsteads, where visitors can sample regional wines and homemade delicacies.

Murska Sobota is also a gateway to the wider Prekmurje region. Day trips can include visits to thermal spas, the Mura River’s floodplain forests, and charming villages known for their traditional thatched houses and handicrafts. The city’s flat terrain and well-marked cycling routes make it easy to explore the surrounding countryside by bike.

Getting to Murska Sobota is straightforward, with good road and rail connections from Maribor, Ljubljana, and other Slovenian cities. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle, and public transport is available for reaching nearby attractions.

The best time to visit Murska Sobota is from early June to mid-September, when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities, lakeside recreation, and attending local festivals. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, while winter brings a quieter atmosphere and opportunities to enjoy the city’s museums and cafés.

With its blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, Murska Sobota is a welcoming destination that showcases the best of Slovenia’s northeast.