best places to visit in northern slovenia

The 8 best places to discover in Slovenia

Jan 5, 2022 • 9 min read

Lake Bled and its island church is perhaps Slovenia’s most iconic image © Brusonja / Getty Images

For proof of the idiom “good things come in small packages,” one only needs to visit Slovenia. In an area about half the size of Switzerland, this Central European country packs in mountain ranges, an Adriatic coastline, fashionable cities, rivers, lakes and perched villages.  

Better still, the country, which takes pride in its avant-garde sustainable-tourism philosophy, is actually all the easier to take in because of its compact nature. In one day, travelers can easily walk in the Alps, kayak a glacial waterway, drive to one of several world-class winemaking regions, and then take a dip in the sea. At the moment, you may not be able to name multiple Slovenian cities, regions or landmarks, but that’s a positive. Slovenia — hiding in plain sight — is waiting to be discovered.  

See spectacular architecture in Ljubljana

All roads in Slovenia lead to its capital, and not just because it’s situated in the center of the country. Named the European Green Capital in 2016, this city of nearly 300,000 is a nexus buzzing with active, cycle-riding residents, alternative culture and eclectic restaurants, museums and cafes. However, the setting alone is worth a visit: Every square has a story told in a language of historical epochs and stunning architecture. 

Start your investigation of Slovenia’s biggest city at the fairytale-like  Ljubljana Castle , a 16th-century hilltop fortification. Either make the short, inclined trek along a clearly marked footpath or take the funicular. Once there, check out a range of attractions, such as the Museum of Puppetry or the Exhibition of Slovenian History. Back down in the Old Town you will, in rapid succession, come across the baroque Cathedral of St Nicholas , built on 13th-century foundations; the main square, Prešernov Trg , and its bright-pink 17th-century Franciscan Church of the Annunciation ; and a series of bridges straddling the Ljubljanica River. 

Although all of the river crossings are unique, the Triple Bridge , designed by local superhero architect Jože Plečnik, stands out. Take a closer look, and you’ll realize just how many of the city’s architectural gems were the product of Plečnik’s brilliance during the first half of the 20th century. Don’t leave Ljubljana without admiring his  National & University Library or taking a guided tour of  Plečnik House , his home and studio for more than 35 years.

Peel back layers of history in Maribor

The truth is, Maribor could fit into several “best of” categories. Slovenia’s second largest city, it anchors the country's Podravska wine region, and it also has a thriving gourmet scene, including the Michelin-starred restaurant  Hiša Denk , about nine miles north of the center. Plus, because it sits on the Drava River, it's a hub for adventure activities like rafting, cycling and hiking. But all that said, Maribor is, at its heart, a treasure chest of historic layers.

Settled time and again during the Stone Age, Celtic period and Roman era, the city dates back to the Middle Ages, with a plethora of sites for history buffs. First, stop in at  Maribor Regional Museum to get an overview, then walk just north of town to visit the remains of the 12th-century castle known today as  Piramida . Back in the center is Glavni Trg , which was the market square during the medieval period. Here, you’ll see the 16th-century Town Hall before sitting for a glass of wine at the Old Vine House , where the world’s oldest producing vine — more than 400 years old — climbs the facade and still produces vino. 

Plan for outdoor adventure in Bovec

At the edge of Triglav National Park , squeezed between the Julian Alps and the crystal-clear turquoise Soča River, Bovec is a haven for nearly any mountain or water activity imaginable. There is a holiday’s worth of sites surrounding the country’s adventure capital, and by enjoying them, you can scratch both your adrenaline- and culture-seeking itches.

Start your journey by cycling approximately 7km (4.3 miles) southwest of Bovec, along the Soča River, to the  Boka Waterfall , Slovenia’s highest falls. Then head in the other direction: you'll pedal next to the Koritnica River for 4.5km (2.8 miles) until you reach  Kluže Fortress , a 15th-century wooden fort that was upgraded to a stone version, wedged between peaks and gorges, in the 18th century. Make sure to take in the exhibition describing the area’s importance along the front lines of World War I. 

Jump to the next excitement level and explore the area’s extremes. Start with an advanced kayak session by paddling both the Soča and Koritnica Rivers (a permit is needed). Then take a gondola ride to  Kanin Ski Centre , the country’s highest ski area at around 2300m (7546ft).

Have a romantic holiday at Lake Bled

Whether you know it or not, you’ve likely seen Lake Bled before. The tectonic glacial lake and its island church — floating on the still water as if placed there centuries ago to fulfill future photographers’ dreams — is perhaps Slovenia’s most iconic image, and the cover shot of many articles and guidebooks. The logical reason for this is clear the moment you see it: Even in two dimensions, this magical place pulls at your heartstrings and touches emotions you were unprepared to confront. When you see it in person with that special someone by your side, get ready for fireworks.

Luckily, there is ample opportunity to stroll or float hand-in-hand in this snowglobe-worthy setting. Start with a boat ride to Bled Island , where churches have been built and rebuilt for more than a millennium; today’s structure is the 17th-century baroque Church of the Assumption . Vows renewed, head to  Bled Castle , which rests on a bluff overlooking the lake. Dating from the early 11th century, the fortress was rebuilt after an earthquake in the 16th century. No romantic outing here is complete without an easy hike to Vintgar Gorge , around 4km (2.5 miles) from the town of Bled. Boardwalks and bridges take lovers (and anyone else) on an intimate journey across the magical 1600m (5249ft) ravine.

Experience local culture at Lake Bohinj

Though small, Slovenia has a surprising amount of regionality, and every area exudes pride about the characteristics that make it unique. When visiting Lake Bohinj — the country’s largest natural lake, tucked into the Julian Alps in Triglav National Park — you will find a community that takes every opportunity to share the authenticity of their beloved landscape, food and history. Give into the temptation to sip on whatever is handed you and just listen.

Lake Bohinj is big. At more than four kilometers in length, the area is more than just a body of water – it's a collection of settlements within the Bohinj Municipality. Before eating or buying souvenirs, look for the Bohinjsko (from Bohinj) label signifying it is locally produced. Then, gobble down or purchase a range of must-haves including cheeses, honey, kitchenwares, jam, beer and even gin. 

In the community of Stara Fužina, get a firmer grip on the local lifestyle at the Alpine Dairy Farming Museum , where exhibits explain how farm-to-table is more than just a recent trend here. In late spring, the International Wildflower Festival is a perfect event to experience the Bohinj from the roots up. And when you are ready to travel to or from the municipality, head to the train station in the town of Bohinjska Bistrica for an unforgettable journey through alpine tunnels on tracks laid by the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Soak up the sun in Piran

Such is the bounty of Slovenia that you can play in the mountains in the morning and lounge on the beach in the afternoon. When that urge strikes — and it likely will — Piran is the spot to soak up the rays, splash in the Adriatic and discover a unique destination on the country’s 47km (29.2 miles) of coastline.

Often called the most beautiful town along Slovenia’s Adriatic shore, Piran predates the Romans, but it got its present look during the Middle Ages, when it was part of the Venetian Empire. Get a panoramic overview of this intoxicating town by climbing the 147 stairs to the top of the bell tower , located next to the 17th-century baroque Cathedral of St George . From here, you can see three countries.

Come down from your perch to Tartinijev Trg (Tartini Square), the nerve center of town before heading to the Mediadom Pyrhani , 150m (492ft) away, to get a multimedia take on Piran history. Don't forget the reason you’ve raced down here from the mountains: A 15-minute walk takes you to Fiesa Beach for your plunge into the sea. 

Explore esoteric interests in the Karst Region

The Karst Region , which takes its name from its porous, limestone topography, acts as a synapse between Slovenia’s northern alpine delights and the Adriatic coast in the southwest. This compact area produces outstanding prosciutto, cheese and wines – such as the ones from Čotar Vineyard in the town of Komen – as well as unexpected pleasures both above and below ground.

In the town of Lipica, take a tour of the Lipizzaner stud farm , where the famous white horses have been bred for more than four centuries. Then take a deep subterranean dive into the Škocjan Caves , a Unesco World Heritage site with some 6km (3.7 miles) of tunnels, passages and chambers filled with enough stalagmites and stalactites to excite any spelunker.

Drink wine in Goriska Brda

Straddling the Italian border, Goriška brda (or simply “Brda”) has been a driving force in Slovenia’s growing reputation as a top wine destination . From one of the many perched villages scattered across the fertile hillsides, you’ll see a seemingly endless expanse of vineyards disappearing over the horizon. A visit here, however, is about more than just observation. To understand the passion brought to every bottle, you’ve got to fill your glass with the area’s liquid gold.

Start in the village of Dobrovo with a tour of the cellars at  Klet Brda wine cooperative, where you’ll have the chance to sample 12 of its finest labels. To compare and contrast, head to  Simčič Winery , in the village of Ceglo, to taste some of the country’s best vino. Make sure to ask for their Rebula, the region’s signature white variety. 

Slovenia   is on our 2022 Best of Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations  click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

You might also like:  Slovenia's new green route is perfect for independent travelers 6 reasons to visit Slovenia, a gem at the heart of Europe A perfect weekend in Ljubljana  

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The Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

By Caitlin Morton

There's a reason Lake Bled is one of Slovenia's most popular sites. With its emerald waters, church-dotted islet, views of the Julien Alps, and Disney-like castle on a hill, you won't be short of picture-perfect views.

Pokljuka Plateau

Located within Triglav National Park at an elevation of around 3,600-4,600 feet, Pokljuka is a plateau of forests and idyllic mountain pastures, like Uskovnica, Lipanca, and Zajamniki (pictured). It is known for its winter sports facilities, and is a popular starting point for people hiking the Julian Alps.

Slovenia's capital city is as romantic and charming as they come—and clean, having been named the “Green Capital of Europe 2016” by the European Commission. Stroll through the pedestrian-only Old Town, sip coffee by the leafy banks of the Ljubljanica River, or take in the baroque architecture and hilltop sixteenth-century Ljubljana Castle.

Škocjan Caves

This UNESCO World Heritage site is found in the Karst region, a limestone plateau stretching from southwest Slovenia to Italy. The system of caves consists of 3.8 miles of underground passages, waterfalls , and rapids, and the enormous Martel Chamber—one of the largest underground chambers in the world. Guided tours of the caves and underground river are available.

Olivia Morelli

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

A village located close to the border of Italy, Lipica is known for one thing in particular: its horses. The town is home to the world-renowned Lipica Stud Farm, an establishment that first bred Lipizzan horses back in the 16th century. Visits to the farm include trail riding, carriage rides, museum tours, and stud performances.

Predjama Castle

The Gothic-style Predjama Castle is easily one of the world's most dramatic castles , built directly into the side of a 404-foot cliff that hides a network of cave passages. Tours of the castle are available year-round, although hibernating bats in the caves restrict underground tours to the months of May-September.

Situated on a picturesque peninsula on the Adriatic coastline, Piran is one of Slovenia's most beautiful cities . Its pedestrian-only Old Town is reminiscent of Venice in miniature, with Gothic architecture, alfresco wine bars, narrow alleyways, and glowing sunsets .

Vintgar Gorge

Sitting just over two miles north of Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge is a wild natural monument located in the heart of the Julian Alps (it's part of Triglav National Park). More than 5,000 feet of wooden walkways wind through the gorge, taking you over rapids, pools, and rivers before reaching the spectacular Šum Waterfall.

Flowing for 86 miles through the Julian Alps in western Slovenia and Italy, Soča is one seriously beautiful river—startlingly clear and impossibly emerald. Adventurers flock to its waters for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and canyoning.

Slovenia's second-largest city is provincial and charming, with a medieval Old Town, pedestrian-only central streets, and a skyline defined by orange roofs and rolling hills. The town is also the site of a glorious landmark: "the oldest vine in the world." Stara Trta (literally "Old Vine") is more than 400 years old, and is a symbol of the rich wine culture in Maribor.

Kranjska Gora

Kranjska Gora is one of Slovenia's best resort towns (especially during the winter months), equipped with many hotels, restaurants, and ski slopes. The area is surrounded by stunning lakes and some of the highest peaks in the Julian Alps.

Škofja Loka

Škofja Loka is one of the oldest towns in Slovenia, and is located a bit off the beaten tourist path (about 18 miles west of Ljubljana and 16 miles south of Bled). It is well worth the drive, especially since the town is one of the most fairy tale-esque places in the country—think hilly countrysides, buildings with Baroque frescoes and stone towers, and a castle that becomes illuminated at night.

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Wander-Lush

26 Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia: The Ultimate List

Starlet of the Balkans, sunny side of the Alps: The tiny nation of Slovenia is a sight to behold. Read on for the best places to visit in Slovenia.

From the fairytale-like capital city of Ljubljana, with its dragon bridge and Baroque architecture, to the dozens of castle-topped towns that dot the Carnolian countryside, the iconic Lake Bled at the foot of the Julian Alps all the way to Istria’s Adriatic coast, Slovenia is one beautiful landscape after the next.

From north to south, east to west, it’s all dazzling lakes, verdant valleys and sprawling vineyards.

Whether you’re in the process of planning the perfect Slovenia itinerary or you’re just looking for some travel eye-candy, this list showcases the best of Slovenia, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the cutest cities and villages, and the most majestic natural landscapes on offer.

Here are 26 of the most beautiful places to visit in Slovenia :

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Beautiful Cities in Slovenia

1. ljubljana.

It’s not all that often that a country’s capital can be counted among its most beautiful destinations. But Ljubljana, Slovenia’s biggest city, is a rare exception.

Elegant in every sense of the word, the Slovene capital is the product of centuries of history and some very considered city planning, mostly at the hand of one man, Jože Plečnik, who took inspiration from Ancient Athens when moulding his hometown.

The painted Plečnik House, the pink Franciscan Church of the Annunciation and the stately Central Market building that overlooks the river are among Ljubljana’s star attractions .

For the best city views, head up to Ljubljana Castle, the beautifully restored stone fortress that crowns the city. The meandering streets of the Old Town stretch out at the foot of the castle hill, divided by the Ljubljanica river from the newer part of the city.

Moving between the two halves requires crossing one of half a dozen quaint bridges: The Triple Bridge, Cobblers’ Bridge and Dragon Bridge are all gorgeous.

Where to stay in Ljubljana: Art Hotel offers bright boutique-style rooms in the heart of Ljubljana Old Town. Ask for a room on the upper level, where the private balconies overlook the city’s red rooftops.

The compact city of Maribor, the second-largest city in Slovenia, isn’t as popular as some other destinations in the country, but it’s still well worth a visit. Located in the eastern part of Slovenia near the border with Austria, Maribor is well connected with Ljubljana as well as with Graz and makes for a perfect stop when travelling between these two cities.

Maribor was founded in the 12th century and was an important stop on the Drava river. Badly destroyed during WWII, today Maribor is one of the most underrated cities in Central Europe.

The centre is small but charming, with beautiful architecture from the times of the Habsburg Empire and numerous cafes and bars, busy with people until the late night hours.

The prettiest place in Maribor is Glavni Trg (Main Square), the largest square where you can find the Town Hall, the first brewery in Maribor, and the former casino.

The nearby Lent district, located on the bank of the Drava river, is the oldest part of the city and is very pleasant as well. This is also where you can find the oldest grapevine in the world – it’s been growing in this very place for over 400 years.

Maribor and the surrounding region are big on the European wine scene, so make sure you visit a few of the vineyards right outside the city. With so many great things to do in Maribor , you won’t ever get bored!

By Kami from Kami and the Rest of the World

Where to stay in Maribor: Hotel Maribor City Apartments offers modern self-contained apartments in the Old Town, with secure parking on site. Take a day trip to Maribor: This full-day trip from Ljubljana shows you the best the 2012 European Capital of Culture has to offer and also visits the town of Ptuj and the vineyards.

Another of the most beautiful places in Slovenia is the city of Koper , the country’s 6th largest city and one of few large coastal communities. Koper is located in the southwestern part of Slovenia on the Adriatic Coast, just 5 kilometres from the Italian border. You can easily visit on a day trip from Italy.

The Venetian Empire ruled over this part of Slovenia for hundreds of years and they certainly left their mark on the architecture, as you can see in the many plazas, fountains and Renaissance-style facades that make up the historic core. Roam around to discover the quaint little streets, stopping in at some of Koper’s best cafes for delicious food along the way.

The Old Town is the most beautiful part of Koper, with the 15th-century Venetian Gothic-style Praetorian Palace in the centre. Today, the city government is housed inside the building.

For beautiful views of the Bay of Trieste, head down to the marina and city beach. More secluded swimming spots can be found on the stony stretch of coastline to the north and south of Koper. 

By Dymphe from Dymabroad

Where to stay in Koper: Casa Mia Apartments & Suites offers stylish self-contained rooms close to the promenade and city centre.

Kranj, well-known as the capital of the Slovenian Alps, is one of the most beautiful and wonderfully outré places in Slovenia. With a 6,000-year-old history, a fascinating culture , incredible culinary scene, strategic location, and imposing views of the highest peaks of three mountain ranges (Triglav, Stol and Grintavec), Kranj packs a punch indeed.

Of the many unique things to do in Kranj, walking the cobbled streets of the Old Town is perhaps the best. Often named one of the best historical towns in Slovenia, Kranj Old Town opens up steadily. As you stroll the streets and gaze around the beautiful squares, be sure to check the Špital Tower, Prešeren’s House, Pungert and Khislstein Castle. Each provide clues to Kranj’s historical and cultural background.

Another gem in Kranj is the tunnels built under the Old Town during WWII. You can walk the tunnels on your own or join a guided tour for a comprehensive experience. Don’t leave Kranj without hiking the Kokra River Canyon, the second-highest city canyon in Europe.

Kranj is located between Bled and Ljubljana and makes for a great stopover if you’re driving from Ljubljana to Lake Bled or vice versa.

By Anjali from Travel Melodies

Where to stay in Kranj: Apartment Na Skali is a nice place to stay in Kranj because of its super-central location and welcoming host who takes good care of his guests.

Beautiful Slovenian Villages & Small Towns

5. piran, one of the most beautiful places in slovenia.

The most beautiful town on the Slovenian Riviera, Piran is a historic Venetian settlement with a long and storied past. Built atop a small peninsula that juts into the Adriatic, the main part of town is a sea of terracotta-coloured rooftops that faces onto the Bay of Trieste, hemmed in by a sloping hill and fortress walls at the rear.

Old Piran centres on Tartini Square, a glimmering Italian-style piazza with a tiny inner harbour on one side, and a ring of pretty pastel facades on the other. From there, you only need an hour or two to traverse the entire town on foot.

Start by walking the length of the coastline up to Punta, the point of the peninsular marked by a small lighthouse, then work your way back to the square by following the stone passageways and snaking streets of the Old Town. Along the way, you’ll find a multitude of cafes, seafood restaurants and small shops selling sea-inspired souvenirs.

For the best views of Piran, head first to the Town Walls to summit the stone steps and look directly down on the peninsular and bay. An alternative (and just as beautiful) view can be found from the top of the bell tower adjoining St. George’s Parish Church. This vantage point looks directly down over Tartini Square.

Where to stay in Piran: Apartments Lara is a terrific self-contained space in the centre of Piran with a full kitchen for self-catering and a private rooftop terrace.

6. Skofja Loka

An easy day trip from Ljubljana, Skofja Loka embodies all the charm small-town Slovenia is associated with. It boasts a classic semi-circular stone bridge (the Capuchin Bridge), historic cobbled streets lined with painted houses, a meandering waterway, and of course a magnificent castle to top it all off.

While away a day in Skofja Loka by walking the two opposing hills for views over the town. The restored 13th-century Loka Castle itself is well worth a visit for the extraordinary museum encased within the medieval castle walls. For a hit of nature, take any one of the hiking trails that branch off behind the city walls.

Be sure to eat a traditional Slovenian lunch in the Old Granary ( Kašča ), which has been transformed into a delightful restaurant. It’s one of the top foodie experiences in Slovenia. It’s mandatory to finish your day with a glass of local wine at Kavarna Homan, the oldest inn in Skofja Loka, before heading back to Ljubljana.

Where to stay in Skofja Loka: If you want to linger a little longer, Hotel Garni Paleta sits right on the river offers simple, modern rooms. Breakfast is included in the nightly rate.

The medieval town of Kamnik in northern Slovenia is an off-the-beaten-track destination that is well worth a visit. With a picturesque Old Town, Bavarian castle ruins and some incredible landscapes, Kamnik is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Slovenia. Nestled in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, just 45 minutes from the country’s capital Ljubljana, it’s a town rich in history, culture and beauty.

Visitors can wander down the main street of Šutna, stopping off for shopping and snacks along the way, before visiting Mali grad and Stari grad, the town’s two castle ruins, and the impressive Franciscan Monastery. Travellers can also hike or take the cable car up to Velika Planina (aka Big Pasture), a summer settlement for shepherds and their animals (more on Velika Planina below).

While the charming town of Kamnik is relatively unknown, it is surprisingly easy to get to from Ljubljana by train or bus. Tickets cost less than 5 Euro each way.

By Chrysoula from Historic European Castles

Where to stay in Kamnik: If you’re looking to stay in Kamnik as opposed to visiting as a day trip from Ljubljana, the central Hotel MD is a great choice. The hotel features spacious comfortable rooms, a bar, garden, terrace and free WiFi throughout and there is parking on-site too.

8. Velika Planina

For an incredible European destination, head to one of the very best places in Slovenia – the historic mountain plateau herdsmen settlement of Velika Planina. Plan your trip in summer or early autumn before the winter weather sets in.

This mountaintop destination near Kamnik is an easy one-hour day trip from Ljubljana on a well-marked road. The easiest and most scenic way to get to the top is by cable car then onto the chair lift where the panoramic views are incredible.

Hiking is a big attraction here, with marked trails that double as cross-country skiing trails when the snows come. Visit the tiny museum and hike to the historic herdsman settlement with its uniquely designed wooden huts. It’s best to hire a guide or join a tour to learn about the history of the cow herders.

On Christmas Eve, Mass is celebrated at the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows. Visitors arrive by candlelight making for a magical experience.

The stunning views of the surrounding Kamnik-Savinja Alps are worth the trip alone, and a perfect backdrop to the bright green pastures, bucolic settlement and wild flowers of the plateau.

But for the tinkle of cow bells on the wind before the herds are taken back down in September, it’s serenely quiet at the top. When visiting Slovenia, hiking Velika Planina is a must.

By Lori from Travlinmad

9. Kranjska Gora

Kranjska Gora is a beautiful mountaintop town nestled in the Julian Alps, close to Triglav National Park and about an hour from Ljubljana.

This is a picture-perfect town that is ideal for walks. Get out and about with a drive over the Vršič Mountain Pass to the Soča Valley, which is packed full of activities and active sport opportunities.

Kranjska Gora really comes alive in wintertime, though. If you’re looking for one of the best ski resorts in Europe for families , then it should absolutely be on your list. With a kind, gentle manner, Slovenians are perfect for getting everyone confident on the slopes. And there can’t be many places more beautiful to do it. 

When it comes to additional activities, there’s horse riding, and also the opportunity to head to Liznjek House, which has an amazing collection of period furniture and tools to give you a real insight into the lives of people who have made Kranjska Gora home through the ages.

By Nichola from Family Hotel Expert

Where to stay in Kranjska Gora: Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, stay at the Ramada Resort in the centre, which is the perfect base to get out and explore this picturesque alpine town.

10. Kostanjevica na Krki

With a history dating back to 1252 and just 703 inhabitants, Kostanjevica na Krki is both one of oldest and smallest towns in Slovenia. Protected as a cultural and historical monument, it’s located in Dolenjska region at the northern foothills of the Gorjanci, between the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, and the capital of Croatia , Zagreb . You can visit Kostanjevica from either city in around one hour.

What makes this town so beautiful is the fact that it’s set on a small island just 500 metres by 200 metres in the river Krka. In fact, it’s often referred to as the ‘Venice of Lower Carniola’ ( Dolenjske Benetke in Slovene).

Straight out of a fairytale, the island has just one circular road, two wooden car bridges and one additional bridge for pedestrians. After a walk amongst the medieval buildings, you can sit at the Kmečki hram, a local inn with a nice garden. If you’re hungry, duck is the best thing on the menu.

In the summer time you can swim, fish, go paddle boarding or canoe to enjoy the green river. For a cultural experience, you can find the Božidar Jakac gallery inside the Cisterian Abbey just 3 minutes’ from town. For nature lovers, Kostanjevica cave and the or primeval oak forest at Krakov are both in close proximity. 

By Džangir from Dr Jam Travels

Where to stay in Kostanjevica na Krki: For accommodation on the island, I recommend B&B Castanea .

11. Portoroz

Set back from Piran and encompassing a long stretch of the Slovenian Riviera, Portoroz (the ‘Port of Roses’) is a popular seaside resort town with a posh beachfront and harbour.

The coastal town was developed as a health retreat in the 19th century and became known for its public baths and luxurious sanatoriums, including the Palace Hotel which was frequented by the Austro-Hungarian monarchy.

But long before it came into vogue as an elite retreat, Portoroz was an important trading port and the centre of Slovenia’s salt industry. One of the most beautiful landscapes in this part of the country is the vast salt pans around Portoroz that were used to harvest precious crystals of sea salt. Salt and brine also formed an important part of the health and beauty regime for spa visitors. A few of the resorts still offer these traditional treatments today.

Like Piran, Portoroz was part of the Venetian Empire, which left an impression on its architecture and city planning. There are also a number of important churches in town that date back to Byzantine times, including the Church of St. Bernadine, which stands prominently on a hill overlooking the bay.

Portoroz can be reached from Piran on foot or bicycle by following the wide seafront promenade that connects the two towns.

Where to stay in Portoroz: Hotel Kempinski Palace is set within the walls of the old Palace Hotel and offers luxury rooms and spa treatments right on the waterfront.

Inhabited since the late Stone Age, Ptuj holds the title of Slovenia’s oldest recorded city. Today the town is home to fewer than 20,000 people and is the perfect size for exploring on foot.

Mirrored in the glassy waters of the Drava river, Ptuj’s Old Town features ornate bell towers and stately hilltop castles that rise above a jigsaw of rooftops. On closer inspection, the streets of Ptuj’s historic quarters are every bit as pretty as the distant view promises.

Much of the town’s architecture dates back to the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and it suitably furnished with floral flourishes and sloping arches.

Ptuj’s historic parish church, town hall and Dominican Monastery are among its notable landmarks. The striking Orpheus Monument in the town’s main square is a hint to an earlier chapter of Ptuj’s history, when it fell within the boundaries of the Ancient Roman Empire.

There’s beauty in Ptuj’s local culture, too. Try to time your visit to coincide with the Kurentovanje festival, a 10-day extravaganza dedicated to the coming of spring with roots in the region’s Slavic pagan traditions.

Where to stay in Ptuj: Apartment Little House is a self-contained cottage near Ptuj Castle that sleeps up to four people. Take a day trip to Ptuj: If you’re short on time, this full-day trip to Ptuj from Ljubljana stops off in the city of Maribor and the surrounding wine country, too.

Beautiful Lakes in Slovenia

13. lake bled.

No place captures Slovenia’s postcard-perfect natural beauty quite like its most iconic lake. Bled is the poster child for tourism in the country, and it’s not hard to see why.

Bled is located in Upper Carniola, the region of northwestern Slovenia close to Ljubljana and the Julian Alps. While you can easily travel to Bled from the capital by coach or car and back in a day, it’s recommended to spend at least one night lakeside.

An early morning or late-night walk around the water’s edge will give you an entirely different, decidedly more tranquil perspective on Slovenia’s most popular tourist attraction.

Aside from stretching your legs on the trail that encircles the lake’s entire perimeter, other highlights include touring Bled Castle, a medieval fortification perched on a cliff overlooking the lake, and venturing out to Bled Island ( Blejski otok ) to visit the petite pilgrimage church. In the latter case, the only way to travel is by pletna , a traditional wooden boat.

One of the most beautiful sights at Bled is the ranks of pletnas with their decoratively painted tails and striped awnings arranged on the lake’s edge.

The most breathtaking views of Bled are from the hills above the lake. Follow the marked trail to the Mala Osojnica viewpoint from the western end of the lake for a classic panorama. As a reward for completing the strenuous hike, you can treat yourself to a square of kremšnita , a decadent cream cake made to a Hapsburg-era recipe and a much-loved culinary tradition in Bled.

Where to stay in Bled:  For the full Bled experience, don’t look past Grand Hotel Toplice , one of the world’s best small luxury hotels. Take a day trip to Lake Bled: This popular itinerary includes transfers from you hotel in Ljubljana and allows for ample time at the lake plus a visit to Bled Castle.

14. Lake Bohinj

While Lake Bled may be Slovenia’s most notable lake, Lake Bohinj , just 30 minutes away, is the country’s largest permanent lake.

Visitors can follow a 12 km path that winds around the lake’s perimeter. Traverse small forests and alpine meadows as you take in the beauty of the vibrant waters. During the warm summer months, you’ll find swimmers, kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddle-boarders enjoying the crystal-clear lake.

On the eastern shore of Bohinj Lake, the 700-year-old Church of St. John the Baptist is adorned with 14th century frescoes. To get a bird’s eye view of the lake and its gorgeous alpine surroundings, take a mile-high (1,535m) journey on the Vogel cable car, just minutes away. Also nearby is a hike to the popular Savica Falls.

Because of its distance from city lights, Lake Bohinj is a wonderful place to take in the night sky as well. Indeed there is no shortage of ways to appreciate the beauty of Slovenia’s Bohinj region.

By Toccara from Forget Someday

Where to stay at Lake Bohinj: Vila Park B&B is a wonderful accommodation in Ukanc on the lake’s western shore. Take a day trip to Lake Bohinj: This alpine lake tour from Ljubljana combines a visit to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.

15. Lake Jasna

The shores of Lake Jasna are perhaps the closest you’ll come to a white-sand beach in the Slovenian alps. Located on the Pisnica River in the north-west corner of the country, just 10 minutes shy of the Austrian and Italian borders, Jasna might be a man-made lake, but it’s still a slice of Slovenian paradise.

Jasna is actually not one but two interconnected lakes. If you’re not visiting as a side trip from Kranjska Gora or when driving through on the scenic Vrsic Pass, you can overnight on the shore at one of the chalet-style resorts purpose-built for maximum relaxation.

Walking paths skirt the lake’s pretty shoreline, while a trail through the nearby Mala Pisnica valley leads you through forested terrain. Take note of the statue depicting a chamois’s Zlatorog (golden horn), which is tied to nearby Mount Triglav’s origin story.

This is the perfect departure point for Triglav National Park and the more secluded hiking trails and lakes nestled within the park.

Where to stay at Lake Jasna:  Vila Triglav is ideally positioned in the hills just above the lake and offers stunning panoramic views from the generous outdoor terrace. Take a day trip to Lake Jasna: On this day tour from Ljubljana to Triglav National Park , you’ll visit Jasna Lake, Pericnik waterfall, and other natural landmarks in the area.

Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia for Nature: Parks, Valleys, Caves & Mountains

16. triglav national park, one of the best places in slovenia for adventure.

Slovenia’s sole national park and largest protected area (it encompasses an astounding 4% of the country’s total territory), Triglav is the prime Slovenian destination for trekking and adventure activities.

The combination of rugged beauty and convenience (the gateway to Triglav is less than an hour’s drive from Ljubljana) makes it a popular choice for tourists and locals alike. Thus it can get quite busy in the warmer months – but don’t let that deter you, there are still quiet spots to be found if you travel deeper into the park.

Triglav encompasses the eastern part of the Julian Alps and some of Europe’s finest hiking trails , including the summit hike to the country’s tallest peak, Triglav. The distinctive crest of this mountain forms a backdrop to many other beautiful places in Slovenia featured on this list – and here’s your chance to see the massif up close.

Shorter, less strenuous hikes including the Seven Lakes Valley, Slemenova Špica path, Savica Waterfall and Peričnik Waterfall hikes and the Soca River Trail are also available, along with scenic drives. Don’t miss the stunning Russian Chapel ( Ruska kapelica ), a church nestled in the forest that was built in memory of those who constructed the road.

Depending on which trails interest you, you can base your stay in Kranjska Gora, Bled, or in any other of the small towns and mountain villages around the park’s boundary.

Take a day trip to Triglav: This day tour from Ljubljana fits in the best Triglav Park has to offer, including numerous viewpoints, a short hike and a visit to Jasna Lake.

17. Vintgar Gorge

Located in northwestern Slovenia in Triglav National Park, Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6 km-long gorge carved out by the Radovna River. It’s one of the most magical places in the whole country and since it’s only 5km away from the famous Lake Bled, it can easily be included in any Slovenia itinerary. You can find a few hotels and apartments near Vintgar Gorge, but it’s best to stay at Lake Bled and visit as a day trip.

The easiest option is to arrive with a car, but there is also a shuttle bus that runs from Bled several times a day in the summer season. Parking lots fill up very quickly so it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning (this way you can also avoid the crowds). Entrance to the gorge costs 10 Euro per person, and it’s typically accessible between 7am and 7pm.

The path through the Vintgar Gorge mostly consists of wooden walkways, but there are some sections where you need to walk on gravel paths. The panoramas are simply stunning – besides the emerald-green river, you’ll come across natural lakes, cascades including the Šum Waterfall, and even a large stone bridge along the way.

By Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

Take a day trip to Vintgar: This self-guided 4-hour bike tour from Bled is an ideal way to explore the gorge. The price includes bike hire and a skip-the-line ticket.

18. Mangart Saddle

For a small nation, Slovenia’s list of things to see and do is overwhelmingly long. The country’s legendary hiking trails outshine the lesser-known route to the Mangart Saddle ( Mangarskte Sedlo ) – which is unfortunate, because it’s definitely an unforgettable travel experience.

Located in the mountains right on the border between Slovenia and Italy, Mangart Saddle is a scenic drive through the country’s highest-lying Route 902, a narrow road built close to the edge of the cliffs. There’s just enough room for two cars to drive past each other slowly, and for both drivers to hold their breath while manoeuvring.

Each time you make yet another breathtaking hairpin, it opens up new stunning panoramas of the mountains, making the whole experience well worth the dare.

Entrance to the Mangarskte Sedlo road comes with a fee of 5 Euros. The drive takes around 40 minutes to complete. From the parking lot at the end, there are several options to continue the journey by road.

The easiest route is a short and scenic hike to the mountain terrace that opens views of Laghi di Fusine. The second, more daring option is summiting Mangart Mountain, which requires special equipment and certain skills.

By Inessa from Through a Travel Lens

Where to stay near Mangart Saddle: The road to Mangart Saddle starts not far from Bovec. This town has plenty of budget-friendly and comfortable hotels and hostels, including Soca Rocks , which also sells great hiking, rafting, and canyoning tours for adventure seekers.

19. Goriska Brda

Goriška Brda is commonly referred to as the ‘Tuscany of Slovenia’, and for very good reason. This small region reaches the border with Italy and has vineyards as far as the eye can see. What ground isn’t covered in grape vines is planted with fruit trees. Cherries are a specialty in early summer. 

With more vineyards than you can count, your days can be filled with wine tasting and wine cellar tours. Rebula is the most notable and beloved variety stemming from the region. 

Other than sipping wine with incredible views, it’s recommended to visit Gonjače Viewing Tower, Dobrovo Castle, and Šmartno, a medieval walled town that is a cultural heritage monument. Nestled in the centre of Smartno is Marica Hiša, which is highly recommended for a meal. The menu changes weekly based on seasonal and local ingredients, and it’s also possible to book a room for the night here.

The best way to visit Goriška Brda is with your own car, but it’s also possible to take the bus with Nomago to Dobrovo or Smartno. From May until September, a Hop On bus is available in the region for just 5 Euros a day. 

By Helene from Wandering Helene

Where to stay in Goriska Brda: House Marica in Smartno has comfortable rooms and a terrific locavore restaurant on-site.

20. Soca River Valley

The Soča River Valley is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Slovenia. While it’s one of the most popular day trips from Ljubljana (or Bled), the valley is also a place where you can spend a few days – especially if you love nature or adventurous activities.

The first thing that will strike you when you see the Soca River is its impossibly stunning aquamarine colour. And the best place to see the river in its full force is from the Napoleon Bridge in the little town of Kobarid. It’s possibly the best spot for photos, too.

Along the length of the river, towns like Bovec offer adventures including kayaking and river rafting. You can also swim in the river, or dip your feet in the crystal clear water if it is too cold to hop in. There are many places in the valley where you can scramble down to the banks.

If you enjoy hiking, there are a number of beautiful trails along the river that you can walk as well. One popular route leads over the suspension bridge in Kobarid to the Kozjak waterfall.

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Where to stay in the Soca Valley: Hotel Hvala Superior is a great place to stay in Kobarid in the Soča Valley. The hotel offers bikes for hire and has an on-site restaurant.

21. Boka Waterfall

Vying for the title of the most beautiful waterfall in Slovenia, Boka Waterfall (Slap Boka) is the highest cascade in the country at a mighty 144 metres tall. The double-level karst spring is also one of the most powerful waterfalls, especially in spring and autumn when snow melt enhances the roaring torrent.

Boka is located in the country’s west, close to the Italian border, in the foothills of the Kanin mountain chain. (Just up the road, there’s another famous waterfall, Slap Virje. Both can be visited as a day trip from the Soca Valley) The vertical rock wall at Boka is extremely impressive, but even cooler is the fact that this waterfall gets a little bit deeper every year: The sheer power of the water is eroding the rock at the bottom. Currently the falls reach a depth of 30 metres.

With temperatures averaging 4.5 °C, the turquoise waters at Boka are a tad too chilly for swimming. Instead, follow the water down to the Soca river, where adventure sports including white water rafting and canyoning are on offer.

22. Bela Krajina

Situated at the southernmost point of the country, Slovenia’s Bela Krajina region is all about quirky folklore, handicrafts, wine, excellent food, and a lot of greenery.

First, the River Kolpa captivates you with its striking green colour and quiet flow. It also acts as a border between Slovenia and Croatia. You can go on a walk or on the hiking trails along the banks of the river to soak up the natural beauty of the place. You can also explore the river in a boat or by kayaking.

Črnomelj, Metlika and Semič are just a few of the towns in the region to explore. Go for a wine tasting as well – Bela Krajina has a wide range of local wines including Portugalka, Belokranjec PTP and Metliška črnina PTP, best sipped with Slovenia’s traditional welcome bread, pogača on the side. You can also attend a workshop to learn how to make pogača.

The most intriguing thing to see in Bela Krajina is the Romarski kompleks Tri Fare complex, with its three churches enclosed within one churchyard. Two Orthodox churches and the only pair of Greek Catholic churches in Slovenia are also located in the region. The Bela Krajina Museum and historic water mill are also worth visiting.

By Nisha & Vasu from Le Monde, the Poetic Travels

Where to stay in Bela Krajina: Big Berry on the banks of river Kolpa overlooking the Croatian side is highly recommended. It has many activities for all ages.

23. The Logar Valley

A vast sea of pea-green meadows flanked by pine trees and the silhouette of distant peaks, the most famous of Slovenia’s glacial valleys, the Logar Valley ( Logarska Dolina ), takes ‘natural beauty’ to a whole other level. Seated at the foot of the Kamnik Alps in the shadow of some of the country’s most dramatic mountains, the valley is prime territory for hiking and biking in summer, and for winter sports in the colder months.

Apart from the splendid landscapes that speak for themselves, this part of Slovenia is also culturally rich . The sparsely populated Logar is home to a distinctive alpine cuisine, vibrant festivals and traditions , and a special vernacular architecture.

Many of the isolated farmsteads double as lodging for tourists so you can really immerse yourself in the pastoral way of life. Choose from any one of the sweet turistična apartments at the northern end of the valley for a perfect base.

The best way to explore the Logar Valley is by following the marked ethnographic trail that highlights the best of the area’s vistas and cultural heritage. Don’t miss the Logarski Kot Herdsman’s Hut, the Chapel of Christ the King, and the dozens of kašče wooden granaries that define the landscape.

Where to stay in the Logar Valley: Turistična kmetija Gradišnik is a picture-perfect mountain cabin with easy access to the valley and trails. Take a day trip to the Logar Valley: This guided tour from Bled passes through the magnificent Logar Valley on the way to 1000 Springs, where you have the option to go paragliding over one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.

24. Zelenci Nature Reserve

Zelenci Lake is yet another breathtakingly beautiful lake that Slovenia holds within its borders. The surrounding Zelenci Nature Reserve is one of the more remote and lesser-visited of the country’s parks.

Zelenci Nature Reserve is a petite 47 hectares of pristine alpine terrain. Its location in the far-northern corner of the country, close to the town of Kranjska Gora and on the road to Mangart Saddle, makes it accessible from bordering Italy and Austria too.

Zelenci is a waterworld. The park is the source of the Sava Dolinka river that feeds into the Danube, which in turn flows all the way to Budapest and beyond. The swampy contours of the park are divided by a long wooden footbridge that allows visitors intimate access. Here you can often see flocks of nesting birds and other wildlife if the season is right.

The deep emerald lake itself is the real gem and gives the park its name ( zelena  is the Slovenian word for ‘green’). Framed by an unreal backdrop of scalloped mountaintops (including the peak of Triglav), the views as you complete the easy hike around the lake edge are simply breathtaking.

The area looks amazing in winter, when a carpet of pure-white snow makes the lake appear almost incandescent. Spring is also a pleasant time to visit, when willows and arrowgrass hug the shore and the birds start to arrive for the season.

Where to stay near Zelenci Nature Reserve: There are several cosy guesthouses in the beautiful village of Rateče, just 1.5km from the entrance to Zelenci. Guest House Vila Moj Mir is set inside a sweet mountain cabin and is a destination in its own right.

25. Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle, the largest cave castle in the world and the most iconic of all cliffside castles, is pure magic and belongs in a fairytale. Built against the cliff-face and partly inside a cave, it blends in perfectly with its environment and is one of the most popular attractions in Slovenia.

The current castle was built in 1570. Wandering around the grounds guided by the excellent audio tour, it’s easy to feel like you’re a character in a medieval novel. The best part of course is peering into the secret karst cave behind the castle. It had a functional purpose, allowing soldiers to secretly supply the castle during a siege.

The most famous inhabitant of the castle was the knight Erazem, who sought refuge inside the castle after his plundering angered the Emperor. The army besieged the castle, but even after almost a year, the inhabitants still did not starve nor surrender.

Predjama Castle is located roughly 10km from the caves at Postojna, which makes it very easy to combine the two sights. If you’re driving, park your car at either spot and use the shuttle bus that connects the two sights during the summer months.

By Manouk from Groetjes uit Verweggistan

Where to stay near Predjama Castle: The beautiful Hotel Kras is highly rated and very close to the caves. It also gives easy access to Predjama Castle. Take a day trip to Predjama Castle: This full-day tour from Ljubljana includes a visit to both Predjama Castle and the Postojna Caves. A private guide, transfers and entrance tickets are all included in the price.

26. Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave might not be conventionally beautiful, but this natural wonder embodies a particular kind of beauty – the kind that comes from millions of years of being shaped by the elements.

The cave’s chambers are characterised by jagged stalagmites, stalactites and unique formations called ‘draperies’ that resemble pleated curtains. Illuminated by soft lights, the twisted rocks take on a mysterious, alluring character.

Slovenia’s second-largest underground cave system, Postojna is located in the country’s west, roughly 50km from Ljubljana on the banks of the Pivka river. The caves were first documented in the 17th century but their history dates back much further than that, with evidence that they were used by humans for shelter from as early as the 13th century.

Today, the Postojna Cave system is one of Slovenia’s top tourism destinations. Visitors can observe a 5km stretch of the 24km-long cave system by walking a set of pathways or riding the underground train – the first of its kind in the world when it opened in 1872.

Postojna and Predjama Castle are separated by a 10-minute drive so it makes sense to pair the two for a half-day of sightseeing.

I hope this compilation of the most beautiful places in Slovenia has given you some inspiration for planning your Slovenia itinerary!

If you’re headed to the Balkan countries soon, remember to check out my Balkans Travel Guide and Balkan road trip planner for more advice.

What is the most beautiful place in Slovenia in your opinion? Anything you’d like to add to the list? Let me know in the comments below.

Slovenia travel essentials

Here are some helpful websites and resources you can use to organise your trip to Slovenia.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Slovenia on Skyscanner .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Slovenia and apply for an expedited visa online.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Slovenia online before you go. My top choice is the Eurolink eSIM from Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Slovenia on Booking.com .

CAR HIRE: Use Discover Cars to find the best price on a rental car in Slovenia.

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Slovenia on Viator .

SLOVENIA GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Slovenia (May 2022).

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18 comments.

What an impressive post with lots of interesting places to visit. The only time I have been in Slovenia was along the Slovenian – Italian border during a mountain hike. I would love to visit it some day and the places in this post are very appealing to me. Thanks!

I loved Slovenia, and can’t wait to go back and do more hiking and exploring. So many good places on this list. I fell in love with Bovec (in the Soca River valley) and know I’ll be back someday — thanks for more ideas to add to my list!

Amazing list! Looking forward to visiting some of these stunning places when it’s safe to again. Thanks for all the info!

Wow, Slovenia just jumped so high on my bucket list! Some of these places look absolutely unreal. Great and comprehensive post, thanks for sharing.

Hi; I’m from Slovenia and I’m sooo impressed by your collection, photography skills and that you visited more than just the 3-4 most famous places in my country. Great post, congrats <3

I’ve only stopped in Slovenia to change trains on my way to Croatia, but I would love to explore the country. Great list you’ve put together!

I have never visited Slovenia before but it looks amazing! I just discovered many interesting places thanks to you! I hope to be able to visit in the future!

Wow that is such a detailed and inspiring post Emily! Lake Bled was obviously already on top of my list but you made me discover so many other places too!! Saving this for when I’m back in Europe 😀

Even though Slovenia is such a small country it has so many beautiful places to see! I went to Slovenia three years ago and visited Ljubljana and Lake Bled. I loved both these places and really want to see more of this country 🙂

Ljubljana and Bled were definitely highlights for me! There’s so much to see in Slovenia.

As a local, I loved this post! Even though Slovenia is a tiny country, but we have so many beautiful smaller towns and the landscape is so diverse. I live abroad now but miss my homeland deeply, it simply has everything! Thanks for sharing this x

Thanks Katja, that means a lot! I had no idea what to expect before visiting Slovenia but I absolutely loved it. Your country is a very special place. I hope you can make it back for a visit soon!

Oh wow! I‘ve been thinking about visiting Slowenia for a while, but reading your post really sealed the deal for me! Such a gorgeous country, thank you for sharing! 😄

Glad to hear that, Sara! I hope you get there soon!

WOW what a stunning country and so many beautiful places to see! I traveled there when I was a kid but I don’t remember almost any of it so I think it’s time to go back to refresh my memory! 🙂

I had the same experience with New Zealand – when I finally went back as an adult, it was even better than I remembered!

Wow! Slovenia looks absolutely beautiful. I am hoping to go next June for my birthday. I’m definitely keeping this article handy on the top cities to visit. 🙂

Slovenia is beautiful any time of year but I think June would be a particularly nice time to visit! Thanks Taylor!

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Guide to Northern Slovenia

With Ljubljana at its heart, Slovenia is a country that has much more to offer than first meets the eye. For people who take the time to explore outside of the city and to head towards the north of the country, they will be rewarded with panoramic views, picturesque lakes and truly authentic experiences. The country is not one that is littered with large cities; instead, towns and villages are spread sparingly across the land. This means that with some careful planning and preparation, you can truly escape from modern life as you venture into the beauty of Northern Slovenia.

In this article, we’ll be looking at how you can spend your time exploring this tremendous region.

Wine Tasting

It may come as a surprise to many that Slovenia is a fertile wine-growing country that has three distinct and different wine-growing regions. The three regions are Primorska (west, south-west), Podravska (north-east, east) and Posavska (east, south-east). Wine Tasting Bled is a small company that offers you the chance to sample a range of seven different wines from Slovenia. You’ll also get to enjoy appetisers and will receive a certificate for becoming an ambassador for Slovenian wine.

Whether you want to relax in a sauna or be pampered with a massage, there are a number of spas in Northern Slovenia that are set within beautiful surroundings. In the north-east, there is Terme Topolsica and La Vita Spa & Beauty, and in the North East, there is Wellness Essense. At these locations, you will have the option to pamper yourself and relax with a range of services.

It’s hard to visit the Northern region of the country and not to feel a strong pull to head out into the beautiful natural landscape. There are countless walking routes that vary in difficulty and length, which means that there will be something for everyone. In the north-east, you will find Triglav National Park, an area of over 300 square miles, perfect for hiking and exploring. To the west, there are numerous mountain and forest routes that can be hiked.

Winter Sports

Slovenia is a great place to hit the slopes while saving a few pennies. Prices tend to be more reasonable here than other more popular winter destinations; however, the quality of the surroundings is just as breathtaking. The majority of skiing is done in the north-east, just outside the town of Maribor in the resort of Mariborsko Pohorje. The pistes are dynamic and will present a challenge for any winter sports enthusiast.

Accommodation

Accommodation in the north of Slovenia is very traditional, as to be expected. During the summer, there are lots of opportunities for glamping; however, this can be an expensive option. Using websites such as Airbnb can allow for some more unique accommodation and can also unlock some slightly cheaper accommodations. Away from Ljubljana, prices tend to fall anyway, but, your options will also become more limited.

To head back to basics during your time in the country, you could opt to stay in one of the amazing shepherd huts in Velika Planina, one of Europe’s largest shepherd settlements. With two chalets available to rent, you’ll have the opportunity to glimpse into the day to day life of a traditional mountain shepherd, a humbling experience.

If you’re looking to splash out on your Slovenian adventure, then there are a range of natural spa hotels in the region that offer a variety of packages. Many of them have heated indoor pools, saunas and massages facilities, perfect for switching off during your break away.

Best Time of Year

As with many other European countries, there really isn’t a ‘best’ time of year as it depends on what you’re looking for from your time away. For those searching for snow, January to March will provide the best coverage and optimum conditions. July and August are the warmest months but are also the busiest as many of the European countries will be enjoying their summer holidays. Shoulder months of June and September can still offer warm weather and blue skies with the benefit of slightly lower prices and less crowded resorts. Finally, December can be a great time to visit as there is a range of Christmas markets being held in the cities.

Food and Drink

It’s worth noting that food and drink is a huge thing in Slovenia, especially considering it borders with Italy. Although the cuisines differ slightly from one another, food still holds an important place within the Slovenian culture. In restaurants, you can expect to find a wealth of meat dishes such as steaks, stews and local dishes. Additionally, seasonal vegetables are popular accompaniments, meaning dishes will vary throughout the year to make the most of the produce.

Desserts are very popular in Slovenia (as they are in many other countries!). Influence comes from countries such as Austria and Switzerland with lots of the desserts using thin pastry, either as a casing or layered as a cake-style of dessert. We recently uploaded a recipe of how to make Prekmurska Gibanica; you can check that out here .

Natural Landscapes

Outside of the city of Ljubljana, the country is mostly made up of countryside, forest and greenery, with small towns and villages checked across the country. One of the highlights of the countryside would be the magnificent Lake Bled. One of the most photographed places in the country, with the iconic church at the heart of the lake, Lake Bled is a truly breathtaking spectacle. During the summer, swimming is allowed in the lake as there are numerous small coves and beach style areas where people can sunbathe and enjoy the surroundings.

One of the other must-sees, upon the outskirts of which Lake Bled is located, is Triglav National Park. An expansive area of mountainous land located in the north-west of the country, Triglav, has countless hiking routes to explore including the 9,300 foot high Triglav mountain from which the park takes its name.

The Northern area of Slovenia is a fantastic region to explore, with so much to do and ample opportunities to get away from the hustle and bustle of normal life and relax. If you are looking to explore this amazing country, why not check out our range of experience holidays heading to Slovenia? During the warmer months, we offer our Slovenia summer holidays , while during winter, the husky experience is our most popular within the country.

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17 Things to do in Slovenia if You’re Looking for Adventure

Ready to discover the best things to do in Slovenia? Explore with this insider’s guide.

Ah, Slovenia. Just thinking about this amazing European country makes me feel like taking a deep breath of fresh Slovenian air.

The beautiful, magical, fairytale-like, kind of addictive tiny country of Slovenia, located just east of Northern Italy, is one you might not have thought of visiting. But with dozens of things to see, adventures to try, food to eat, and places to visit in Slovenia, it’s a country I’d highly recommend for ANY kind of traveler.

I’ve now been to Slovenia twice because, if you haven’t noticed, I’m kind of obsessed. I mean, who wouldn’t love a country full of farm-to-table food, mountains to hike, and charming small towns to fall in love with?!

The country’s small size makes it a lot easier to get around, meaning you can see a LOT in a short amount of time. It’s a perfect destination for time-strapped travelers who want to see more than just the highlights in a short amount of time.

To help convince you to visit this place that I hold deep in my heart, I’ve compiled this list of my 17 favorite (or highly recommended) things to do in Slovenia.

17 Unique and Adventurous Things to do in Slovenia

1. ljubljana.

Ljulbjlana is Slovenia’s capital and its largest city – so it figures it’s at the top of most travelers lists of things to do in Slovenia.

It’s also the heart of many of the significant events in Slovenia’s history, as well as a great hub to base yourself if you’ve only got a couple of days in Slovenia . With tons of historic landmarks and fun neighborhoods, Ljubljana is definitely worth exploring for a few days.

While you’ve probably come to Slovenia to enjoy the small villages and natural attractions, there’s a lot to enjoy in Ljubljana. First of all, there’s an epic free walking tour you can take to get acquainted with the city, led by local guides who know all kinds of epic and weird facts and trivia. (Tours are daily at 11 AM, with a second at 3 PM during the months of November to April.)

Afterward, head to the citadel of the city, Ljubljana Castle , which has tons of historic rooms, galleries, and exhibits you can view. It’s also got some of the most breathtaking views of the city’s iconic red-roofed homes.

When you’re done there, go for a stroll along Mestni Trg , the Old Town walking street between the castle hill and the river where you can find TONS of boutique shops and restaurants.

At the end of the walking street, there’s the Central Market , which is open every morning. On Fridays in the summer, you can also find a big food market full of stalls from local chefs, also known as Ljubljana’s Open Kitchen .

Additionally, you can also take a boat tour, sample amazing traditional Slovenian eats (the garlic struklji at Figovec and the kranjsko klobaso at Klobasarna are to DIE for), or visit one of the many art and history museums in the downtown area.

If you’ve ever seen those dreamy photos of a beautiful church steeple on a tiny island in a lake surrounded by mountains, you’ve actually seen Lake Bled .

While the name is a little violent, it’s actually quite a peaceful place. Arguably one of the most picturesque locales in all of Europe, Bled’s stunning location and memorable island make it one of the most coveted places to visit in Slovenia. 

While you can visit Bled as a day trip from Ljubljana, I strongly recommend spending a night or two there to explore the town’s attractions and the nearby Triglav National Park.

Of course, in Bled, you’ll probably want to take a boat and visit the iconic church ( Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria ) that first brought attention to this small Slovenian town.

Legend has it that the island was once the temple of a Slavic goddess, Ziva, but it was destroyed when Christians began to settle the region.

A Gothic church was then built in its place, which through the years (and an earthquake) was destroyed and restored. Today, it’s said that if you ring the church bell and make a wish at the church on the island, your wish will come true.

But after that, don’t just leave! There are tons of other things to do in Bled that warrant a few extra hours (or days) in this beloved town.

Don’t forget to try the famed Bled cream cake ( kremsnita ) and visit the Bled Castle , which sits atop a picturesque cliff along the side of the lake.

Surrounding the lake, there are also some hikes you can do, including the hike to Ojstrica and Osojnica (where the photo above was taken).

3. Lake Bohinj & Savica Waterfall

Located in the Carniolian region in the northwestern corner of Slovenia, Triglav National Park is the only national park in the country and is one of the (literally) sparkling gems of the region.

With gorgeous waterfalls, sparkling lakes, amazing hiking trails, and some of the most awe-inspiring views in the country, this park showcases the Julian Alps in the best way possible.

Within Triglav are two incredible sights located not far from each other: the mysterious Lake Bohinj and the deep teal Savica Waterfall .

Lake Bohinj is the center of many Slovenian myths, including a large dragon which supposedly lives in one of the many caves there. 

On the shores of Lake Bohinj, near the parking lot, you’ll find the famous statue of the golden-horned goat, Zlatorog. It’s said that Zlatorog is the protector of the lake, and the statue pays tribute to him as a thank you.

At Bohinj, you can go for a swim (or a dive), or ride the electric boat there for just €10 round trip. On the boat ride, a local guide will explain some of the landmarks of the lake, and share a few of the local legends that make the lake so special.

There are also walking trails around the lake’s perimeter, as well as a small church with historic frescoes you can visit.

A short drive from Bohinj lies the trail to Savica Waterfall , otherwise known as Slap Savica. It’s a short uphill hike to get to the falls, but once you arrive, you’ll be treated with excellent views of Triglav National Park, as well as a stunning 78-meter teal waterfall.

Go early and you may enjoy the falls all to yourself!

4. Soča Valley

Another famed area of Triglav National Park lies the scenic and magical Soča Valley . Home to the Soča River, which is also known as the Emerald River, this area is arguably the most beautiful in all Slovenia.

Honestly, who’s to judge? I think everywhere in Slovenia is beautiful, but the Soča Valley does top my list.

For outdoor lovers, there’s a TON to do here. I mean, with a raging river surrounded by mountains, the adventure activities are endless.

You can rent a kayak and paddle the river or join a whitewater rafting tour in the Soča River. Or, alternatively, tackle one of the breathtaking hikes in the area, like the Soča Trail or Kobarid Waterfall . You can also visit the stunning, 100+ meter Boka Waterfall , which is pretty freaking breathtaking if you ask me.

If you’re not a big fan of getting your feet wet in nature, Soča Valley offers a wonderful selection of cute inns and farmhouses where you can stay, like the Hotel Dobra Vila in Bovec. A visit to Soča Valley a great way to escape the cities and enjoy a few places in nature.

You can also visit the restaurant of Ana Ros, Hiša Franko , which was featured on that one SUPER picturesque episode of Chef’s Table on Netflix.

This badass boss lady’s restaurant caters to the finest of foodies, and you definitely won’t be disappointed while sampling traditional Slovenian flavors and ingredients in a charming countryside farmhouse.

5. Kranjska Gora

Kranjska Gora is a small ski town located on the border of Austria, and it’s much less visited than its neighbors, Triglav National Park and Bled. If you want to know what to do in Slovenia and don’t mind getting a little off the beaten track – Kranjska Gora is for you.

However, don’t let the smaller tourist numbers fool you – this is one of my favorite places in Slovenia because it’s SO. FREAKING. BEAUTIFUL.

But when you visit Kranjska Gora, don’t confine yourself to the city. Instead, visit some of the gorgeous gems – lakes, mountains, and rivers – surrounding the area. You certainly won’t be disappointed!

Take a short drive to Lake Jasna , one of the most picturesque alpine lakes in the country and the hub for some of the most stunning photos of Kranjska Gora. Here, you can spend the day admiring the reflection of the Julian Alps in the still, turquoise lake or wandering around the lakeside boardwalks and trails.

In the winter, you can participate in a number of winter sports in the Kranjska Gora area, including skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing, winter hiking, ice climbing, snow biking (which I didn’t even know was a thing but, hey, the more you learn…), and more.

Basically, it’s a winter wonderland for snow sports lovers, and we’ve literally never been more excited to say, “winter is coming…”

6. Predjama

One of the strangest and most oddly beautiful places to visit in Slovenia is Predjama Castle , which is situated about an hour outside of Ljubljana.

As you can see from the photo, this castle was built into the side of a limestone karst mountainside, which is a super unique and fascinating marriage of man-made structures and the landscape that Slovenians love so much.

You may be tempted to simply go to the castle, take a photo of the outside, and leave. But actually, it’s really worth paying to enter and take the audio tour ( and yeah, this is coming from someone who never opts to go into museums for fun… ).

Long story short, I loved the audio tour, which recounts the story of Erazem Lueger, a terrifying robber-baron who built and owned the home until his untimely death while literally sitting on his “throne.” (You’ll have to take the tour to get the joke!) 

Additionally, entering the home gives you the chance to see how the castle was built to integrate elements of the karst mountainside into which it was built.

There are secret hideouts, escape tunnels, cave dungeons, and more hidden in the walls of this exquisite home, and you can’t fully experience them unless you go inside!

7. Postojna Cave

Next to Predjama is the amazing Postojna Cave , which is one of the most popular and beautiful places to visit in Slovenia.

Slovenia is known for its unique limestone karst , which is a porous type of rock that most of the landscape here is made of. (Fun fact: karst is also one of the only Slovenian words that’s used regularly in other languages.)

The karst is what creates the enormous cave systems throughout the country, as there are many areas where rivers ran (or are running) underground for thousands of years.

Sadly, I’ve never actually gotten to visit because I always arrived too late in the day. (Don’t be like Kay: research the cave’s opening hours before getting in the car in Ljubljana!).

Anyway, I’ve never been, but I’ve heard and seen amazing things about it, as the second-longest cavernous system in Slovenia.

You have to take a guided tour of Postojna Cave , but the good news is that they happen several times a day during the high season. They’ve got paved footpaths and lighting so you can see all of the details of the breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites in the cave.

You can even take a train ride through the cave, which is  definitely a great happy hour conversation starter. (“Oh yeah, I just took a train ride through a giant cave in Slovenia, and you?”)

It definitely looks like an amazing experience ( darn you, Kay, and your “Filipino time”…*shakes fist* ), and can easily be done as a day trip from Ljubljana. During the high season, it’s strongly recommended to book your tickets in advance.

Totally different from the snowy peaks and alpine lakes in the northern part of Slovenia, Piran is a picturesque seaside town located on the tiny Istrian Coast of the country.

Piran is home to a very unique blend of Slovenian, Croatian, and Italian cultures, and its food and local lifestyle are a reflection of the laid-back coastal vibes here. When people ask me about my favorite places to visit in Slovenia, Piran is ALWAYS on the list.

In Piran, you can have a totally jam-packed itinerary, or you can simply enjoy the sea breeze and wander around the town without a plan. Both are totally awesome ways of exploring this lovely little town.

Should you decide you do want to make a plan for some of Piran’s attractions, head to the Walls of Piran for some of the most amazing views, climb the St. George’s Bell Tower , and of course, don’t forget to sample some of the fresh seafood dishes (with Slovenian wine!) available in basically any restaurant in town.

To get to Piran from Ljubljana , I strongly recommend taking a bus.

Why? Because driving in Piran is severely restricted, and you’ll have to pay to park outside the historic city limits (meaning you probably won’t use your car at all anyway). 

If you’d love a seaside getaway in Slovenia without the crowds of famous Piran, head to Izola , which is yet another quaint seaside town on the Istrian Coast.

Filled with traditional orange-roofed homes just like its neighbor, Izola is a quieter, more local fishing village where you can enjoy the seaside way of life without as many fellow tourists.

Here, you can book yourself into a tiny local B&B or boutique hotel (like the charming Hotel Marina ) and simply relax on the beach on this peaceful escape. (Yup, unlike Piran, Izola has actual beaches where you can put on your swim trunks and your flippy floppies and relax!)

Alternatively, sample fresh seafood dishes after wandering along the shoreline trails to nearby villages and nature areas.

10. Mangart Saddle

As one of Slovenia’s hidden gems for hikers, Mangart Saddle is a jaw-dropping mountain area that’s perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and lovers of the outdoors.

It’s located on the very northern border of the country in a secluded mountain pass area, so it’s a bit difficult to get to without your own car. However, if you make the trek up there, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most absolutely stunning, raw nature available in all of Slovenia.

11. Logar Valley & Velika Planina

According to locals, Logar Valley and Velika Planina are some of the most beloved places to visit in Slovenia. And, because they’re not on the typical tourist track, they’re a bit less crowded than Ljubljana or Bled.

The recommendation for Logar Valley and Velika Planina is one that was actually given to me by a local I met while staying in her Airbnb.

I haven’t actually been, but she sang high praises about them, so I figured I’d look into them a bit more so you can have the chance to visit during your time in the country. (They’re both definitely on my list for next time!)

Logar Valley is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Slovenia. Carved by ancient glaciers, the Logar Valley area features striking valleys amidst jagged, otherworldly mountaintops.

In Logar Valley, you can drive down a scenic road that winds through the mountains called the Solcava Panoramic Road . Alternatively, you can go on one of the many hikes in the area.

Nearby Velika Planina is also worth a stop if you’re planning on exploring the area. An alpine plateau that’s full of rustic houses, take a cable car to get up to the plateau, where you can hike around and visit the famed herdsmen’s settlement  to experience one of Slovenia’s more pastoral ways of life.

12. Novo Mesto

Situated in the eastern part of Slovenia, the picturesque city of Novo Mesto is an architectural marvel located in the middle of Slovenia’s Dolenjska wine country, where they make traditional Slovenian Cvicek wine.

In town, you can pay a visit to the Museum of Dolenjska to learn more about the region’s history and artifacts, or sample local eats at a home-owned restaurant.

Additionally, in true Slovenian fashion, there are TONS of outdoor activities to do in the Novo Mesto area, like mountain biking, kayaking or rafting down the Krka River, and hiking on the various trails in the area.

The landscapes here are different than some of the others in Slovenia, with leisurely rolling hills filled with lush forests and cool, flowing rivers.

Just outside of Novo Mesto lies the picturesque estate of Otocec Castle , a luxury hotel built into a historic castle where you can ACTUALLY stay the night! Located on an island in the middle of the Krka River, Otocec Castle is a gorgeous place to spend a day (or a few) basking in the history and culture of Eastern Slovenia.

13. Maribor

Maribor is Slovenia’s second city and serves as a perfect gateway or hub to the Eastern part of Slovenia. It’s definitely one of the must-see cities in Slovenia, especially if you’re into history and architecture.

Because of its size and its proximity to amazing outdoor areas, I’d strongly recommend spending a couple of days in Maribor during your trip to Slovenia, if you have the time.

Within Maribor’s city limits, you have a LOT of choices for things to do. It’s especially perfect for wine lovers and foodies. Visit the Old Vine , the oldest grapevine in the world, and sample some fine wines in its shop.

For history lovers, head to the Maribor Cathedral and the Maribor Regional Museum to learn more about the city’s deep history.

Near Maribor, you can also enjoy outdoor activities like skiing ( Mariborsko Pohorje Ski Resort is a fabulous nearby resort), hiking, and scenic drives in the eastern part of Slovenia bordering Croatia.

Winter sports lovers will LOVE Vogel , the hub of all things skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, winter hiking, and more.

Vogel is a ski resort that located not far from Lake Bohinj, and it’s a perfect region to pair with a winter trip to Bled or nearby Austria. Whether you’re new to winter sports or you’re an experienced skier, you can find an incredible winter adventure in Vogel.

A total gem of a city in eastern Slovenia, Ptuj is a gorgeous example of Slovenian architecture. But even better than its picturesque facade is its fascinating cultural elements, many of which can only be found in Ptuj.

Learn about the traditional costumes, annual customs, and fascinating religious rites that once called Ptuj home.

While here, visit the historic Ptuj Castle , with its original designs and architecture, or learn about the ancient religion of Mithraism at one of the city’s many Mithra shrines .

Don’t forget to go see the shaggy Kurent costumes , which are traditional costumes used as a fertility ritual and to celebrate the first days of spring.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Idrija is one of the coolest and most significant places to visit in Slovenia.

A historic mining town built amidst rolling hills, Idrija was where Mercury was first found in 1490, and there are many historic mining buildings that continue to tell its story today. It’s also famous for its lace production, and you can find tons of locally-made handicrafts for sale in its local boutiques.

When you explore the town, you can visit a few of the landmarks and museums to get a feel for its mining history. Visit the Idrija Mercury Mine to learn more about the mining activities in the area, or the Idrija Lace School to see the famous local lace products made in real-time.

Or, for nature lovers, head to Wild Lake (divje jezero), a fascinating forested lake that appears to be multi-colored.

17. Skocjan

The Skocjan cave system is a little out of the way, but it’s an absolutely magnificent display of nature at work. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Skocjan Caves are an absolutely impressive set of underground tunnels with some otherworldly rock formations, too. 

To visit the cave, you need to buy a ticket at the entrance and choose a designated tour time. You can’t enter the cave without a tour guide.

The tour is a full 2.3 kilometers, so be ready for a bit of walking throughout the cave’s paved, lit pathways. While inside, you’ll get to see the many rock formations caused by the Reka River’s carving over thousands of years.

Practical Tips for Exploring the Best Things to do in Slovenia: Know Before You Go

When to Visit Slovenia

Slovenia is truly a year-round destination. There’s literally so much to do here during any time of year, in the cold of the winter or the heat of the summer. However, if you have specific things in mind for your trip to Slovenia, you’ll want to make sure you come during the right season. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

If you want to hike, explore caves, or go rafting: Go in the summer. June to mid-September is the best time for you to head there, although be warned — this is peak tourist season and therefore the main attractions will be VERY crowded.

For snow sports & winter wonderland photo opps: Winter is your jam. Go between December and late February for the best powder and weather for winter sports.

To avoid the tourists: Head to Slovenia in the spring or in the fall, March through May or October through November. These months are the least crowded and you may even get a glimpse at some really spectacular attractions without anyone else around.

How to Get to & Around Slovenia

Getting to slovenia.

It’s easy to get to Slovenia, either overland from a bordering country or by air. You can take a FlixBus to Ljubljana from most large cities nearby, including Verona, Venice, Trieste, Zagreb, Graz, and Vienna. Additionally, you can fly on most European airlines directly to Ljubljana’s airport (LJU).

Getting Around Slovenia

While there are buses all over the country, the easiest way to get around is by rental car. Slovenia has well-maintained highways that will take you to all of the major sites. To rent a car, simply book one online (I use Sixt usually) and pick it up at the airport or in downtown Ljubljana.

During your trip, you may need to drive on some narrow streets through small towns or country roads, but drivers in these areas are generally friendly and you can find ways to maneuver around them as needed.

Where to Stay in Slovenia

There are lots of really cool and interesting places to stay in Slovenia. You can stay in traditional hotels, local farmhouses & inns, and even a few castles! While I can’t go through all of my favorite hotels in the country here (that’s a whole different post!), here are a couple of the most unique places to stay in Slovenia:

• Hostel Celica (Ljubljana): This hostel, located in a really cool neighborhood near the train/bus station in Ljubljana, was built into a former jail. Yup, all of the rooms are crafted into jail cells, and if you’re a believer in ghosts…well, you may just have a fun run for your money. 🙂
• Otocec Castle Hotel (Otocec): At this gorgeous estate in the eastern part of Slovenia, you can stay in a LITERAL castle. If you ever wanted to soak in a piece of Slovenian history, this beautiful castle hotel along a river is the perfect spot.
• Old Parish House B&B (Bled): One of my personal favorites, this quaint bed and breakfast is located right next to the staircase/trail to Bled Castle in an old convent/priest’s home next to the church. The rooms are bright and some have views of Lake Bled.
• Hisa Franko (Soca Valley): You remember that awesome, high-end restaurant that was featured in Chef’s Table? Well, they also have an adorable guest house located right there, on the property! With your booking in one of their beautiful farmhouse-style rooms, you get a free breakfast, too.

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I’m Kay. I’m originally from small town Virginia, but have moved all around the East Coast and the United States for basically my entire life. I spent my childhood days blissfully wandering through the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling in leaves, playing in creeks…you know, the usual overly adventurous 5-year-old stuff.

But those early years spent outside gave me a real problem: I’m now an adventure addict. Basically, if I’m not at my computer banging out articles or photos, I’m probably out hiking, biking, or camping somewhere beautiful.

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Four Days in Slovenia – The Perfect Slovenia Itinerary

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What a fantastic blog! your photos are absolutely stunning! Thank you for sharing! I’ve definitely wanted to go back, and this will help for my next visit!!

Thanks Bea! So glad to hear.

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Best things to do in Slovenia

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-things-to-do-in-slovenia

written by Andy Turner

updated 24.03.2023

Slovenia , though tiny, is well worth a trip. With a coastal turquoise sea and snow-capped Alpine mountains — this beautiful country is gifted with astounding regional variation. Its dramatic landscapes and unspoilt natural features make for a splendid playground for those who enjoy outdoor life and adventure sports. Here is our pick for the best things to do in Slovenia.

1. Take a tour of the Škocjan Caves

2. whitewater rafting and more at triglav national park, 3. see the beautiful sights of old town, ljubljana, 4. visit the romantic lake bled, 5. bled castle for impressive views, 6. roam piran — one of the best things to do in slovenia, 7. see the historic landmarks of ptuj, 8. see the views of vrsic pass, 9. see the unspoiled nature of lake bohinj.

• 10. Predjama Castle for a taste of Slovenia's history

11. See a concert at Postojna Cave

12. walk the wooden walkways of vintgar gorge, 13. see the bell tower of korper, 14. take a dip at lake jasna.

This article is inspired by the Rough Guide to Slovenia — your essential guide for travelling in Slovenia.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Slovenia, created by local experts

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Gorgeous gems of Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia

From the spas of Budapest to Lake Bled with its castle and further on to Croatia - this itinerary takes you across 3 countries, with a special focus on Slovenia's lake area and the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

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Gourmet Tour

You will visit three different adjacent countries and experience traditional local food and wines. You will visit some of the most intriguing restaurants and wineries in the area taste the delicious contrast between fine restaurants, and more traditional, authentic taverns.

13 days  / from 3153 USD

Balkan Extended

The Balkan Extended tour truly showcases the finest of Balkan’s heritage and natural beauty as you make your way through the 5 countries. Learn about the Serbian Athens, climb the splendid Old Bridge in Mostar, observe Slovenia's water castle and dive into the pearl of Croatia's beauty in Istria.

Tailor-made trips for   Slovenia

Take a trip through this breathtaking cave system, which features the world's largest subterranean canyon.

The Škocjan Caves are a Unesco World Heritage Site that attracts 90,000 visitors every year. The 90-minute tour of the caves takes visitors on foot through 2.5km (1.5 miles) of the total 6km (4-mile) network.

While here, don't miss Silent Cave, decorated with stalagmites and stalactites. Or the unforgettable Murmuring Cave, an underground gorge carved by the emerald-green River Reka which roars and echoes in the cave.

Skocjan cave in Slovenia © John_Silver/Shutterstock

Triglav National Park attracts 2.5 million visitors a year. Its stunning alpine mountains, valleys, lakes and rivers offer a dramatic backdrop to outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and white-water rafting, plus skiing in winter. There are 33 settlements in the park and a population of 2,400. Protected animals include brown bears, lynxes and golden eagles.

White water rafting is one of the best things to do in Slovenia © Shutterstock

Wonderful architecture, a hilltop castle and atmospheric riverside bars — visiting this part of the capital is one of the best things to do in Slovenia.

Though largely Baroque, the Old Town dates back to medieval times and is the only part of the city to have survived the 1895 earthquake. The waterside promenade of Cankarjevo nabrežje is lined with cafés. On Sunday mornings, it holds a flea market — with stalls selling antiques and bric-a-brac, including memorabilia of Communist Yugoslavia.

While here, don't miss the beautiful architecture of Triple Bridge. Or the buzzing of Central Market (Glavna tržnica) — an open-sided colonnade designed by Plečnik in 1939.

Where to stay in Ljubljana:

• For a truly atmospheric stay: Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel
• For a stay in the heart of the city: City Hotel Ljubljana

Or find the accommodation of your dreams in Ljubljana

Don't miss Old Town - one of the best things to do in Slovenia © Shutterstock

Within a basin surrounded by the rugged, snowcapped Julian Alps lies Bled. This is Slovenia’s most visited resort, northwest of Ljubljana. The jewel of this idyllic hideaway is the emerald-green Lake Bled. This fairytale lake comes complete with a romantic island church and cliff-top castle and has been voted one of the most beautiful places in Europe.

Tourism began here in 1855, when European aristocrats visited the lake to enjoy its efficacious thermal waters and the invigorating alpine air. Today, busloads of excursionists come from all over Europe, but the lake and its setting remain undeniably beautiful. Travelling here is best done in the spring or summer.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Our tailor made service allows you to travel without the hassle. Our Best of Croatia and Slovenia trip will take you through Dubrovnik, Plitivce Lakes, Zadar and Zagreb in Croatia before heading out to see Lake Bled and Slovenia's capital Ljubljana. All tailor made trips can be modified together with your local expert.

The beautiful Lake Bled © JGA/Shutterstock

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The most impressive views of the lake are from the ramparts of Bled Castle. This historical landmark is built on a rocky outcrop 100 metres (330ft) above the water. Dating from the 11th century, its present appearance is largely 17th-century.

Inside is the Castle Museum (Grajski muzej), where you will find archaeological finds, period furniture and armoury. For history lovers, this is one of the best things to do in Slovenia.

Where to stay near Bled

• For a room with a mountain view: Hotel Park - Sava Hotels & Resorts
• For a stay in the heart of bled: Hotel Lovec

Or find accommodation at any budget near Lake Bled

Bled Castle © Shutterstock

Piran is Slovenia’s most beautiful coastal town. Sitting compact on a small pointed peninsula, the old town is composed of pastel-coloured Venetian-Gothic buildings presided over by a hilltop church. It is known for its Venetian Gothic-inspired architecture, Italianate squares and fine churches.

In the 5th century AD, Romans fled to the coast to escape the Huns settled here. For some 500 years, from 1283 to 1797, Piran came under Venetian rule, which produced splendid buildings and a proud maritime status. The Republic was supplied with salt from the nearby saltpans. Subsequent relative neglect under the Habsburgs preserved the delightful medieval atmosphere.

Where to stay in Piran:

• For a luxurious stay on the water: Hotel Piran
• For a modern stay with great decor: Art Hotel Tartini

Or browse other accommodation in Piran

The beautiful coast of Piran © Shutterstock

Slovenia's oldest and prettiest town, stuffed with remnants of its Roman and medieval past. Commanding a hilltop position above the plain, Ptuj was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD as Poetovio and had 40,000 inhabitants.

In 450 it was plundered by the Huns and in the 6th century, the site was occupied by the Avars. It passed into the Frankish Empire in the late 8th century, then came under the Archbishopric of Salzburg, before falling under the Habsburgs in 1555.

The Rough Guides to Slovenia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Today, the old town, filled with cobbled streets lined with Gothic and Baroque buildings and crowned by a hilltop castle, is known throughout Slovenia for its Kurentovanje carnival celebrations.

Ptuj, Slovenia © Ondra Vacek/Shutterstock

Vrsic Pass offers a stunning panoramic view of the Julian Alps and is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Cruise down winding roads and hairpin turns that will take your breath away.

The pass has a rich history and played a significant role in World War I, making it a popular destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the nearby town of Kranjska Gora, go hiking or skiing, and enjoy the local cuisine and hospitality.

Russian chapel on Vrsic pass near Kranjska Gora, Slovenia © Shutterstock

While Lake Bled is postcard-perfect, its sister lake southwest in Triglav National Park is larger and wilder. This beautiful landmark is an unspoilt alpine landscape of pine woods and lush meadows speckled with wildflowers, against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains.

Unlike Bled, Lake Bohinj (Bohinjsko Jezero) is almost untouched by modern development —building on the shores of the lake is prohibited. Bohinj is an excellent base for a relaxed family holiday , with a number of well-kept mountain paths to explore the surroundings.

Bohinj Lake, Slovenia © Shutterstock

10. Predjama Castle for a taste of Slovenia's history

The magically beautiful Predjama Castle lies near the village of Predjama 7km (4 miles) northwest of Postojna Cave. Built into the rocks of a sheer cliff face, it dates back to the 13th century, though its present Renaissance appearance is largely the result of 16th-century alterations.

Inside, several rooms are furnished in period style, the stairs to the upper floors are carved in solid bedrock. Below the castle, there’s a cave worth exploring.

Ready to immerse yourself in the history of Slovenia? Our tailor-made trip service makes travelling easy by taking care of the planning and booking. Our Walk of Peace trip takes you through a historical trail encompassing the major sites of the First World War’s Isonzo Front. Our trips are crafted by local travel experts and are completely customisable.

Predjama Castle, Slovenia © Shutterstock

Europe’s most visited cave, and probably your first choice for a cave tour, is near the town of Postojna, southwest of Ljubljana. Postojna Cave comprises 20km (13 miles) of halls and passages, of which a quarter is open to the public. The 90-minute tour starts with a train ride through ingeniously lit tunnels and grottoes dripping with stalactites and stalagmites.

Here one can also visit the Concert Hall, which can hold audiences of up to 10,000 and is occasionally used for concerts.

The Speleobiological Station close to the cave entrance shows a short film about the karst, and displays live specimens of cave fauna. It is amazing to think that anything at all can live in these conditions.

Postojna Cave, Slovenia © Shutterstock

The spectacular Vintgar Gorge lies 4km (2.5 miles) north of Bled. Carved by the River Radovna and flanked by rocky outcrops and birch woods, it was first explored in 1891.

A series of suspended wooden walkways and bridges criss-cross the length of the 1,600-metre (1-mile) gorge. It passes over thundering waterfalls and rapids and culminates with the 13-metre (43ft) high Šum Waterfall (Slap Šum). This walk is one of the best things to do in Slovenia.

Want to experience Slovenia, but without the hassle of booking and planning? Our Balkan Extended trip offers you the finest of Balkan heritage and natural beauty as you make your way through the 5 countries.

Vintgar Gorge, Slovenia © Pixabay

Koper Slovenia’s main port. Tourists often pass it by, considering it too industrial, but the medieval old town has Slovenia’s most beautiful buildings from the Venetian era. Hard to imagine today, the city was an island that was not joined to the mainland until a landfill in the 19th century.

Here you'll find the Cathedral of the Assumption (Stolnica Marijinega vnebovzetja). This historical landmark dates back to the 12th century, and again combines Venetian-Gothic and Renaissance elements. Visitors can climb the 36-metre (118ft) bell tower for stunning views over the Gulf of Trieste. Behind the cathedral is the 12th-century circular baptistery.

Titov Trg square in Koper, Slovenia © Shutterstock

Lake Jasna is a picturesque alpine lake surrounded by stunning mountain scenery that offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors. The lake is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a variety of water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding.

Visitors can also explore the nearby hiking and biking trails or take just a short drive to the town of Kranjska Gora. Here they can enjoy local cuisine, cultural attractions, and exciting outdoor activities. Lake Jasna is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Slovenia.

Lake Jasna, Slovenia © Pixabay

This list could truly go on. There are countless fantastic things to do in Slovenia . Ready to start planning your trip? Check out the Rough Guide to Slovenia.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Slovenia without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image Lake Bled © Shutterstock

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30 Best things to do in Slovenia, according to travel bloggers

Ah, beautiful Slovenia! This is one of the most incredible countries in Europe.

It’s so small yet has it all. With all the best things to do in Slovenia, you surely won’t be bored during your visit.

In only one day during your Slovenia trip you can swim in the Adriatic Sea in the morning and hike in the Slovenian Alps in the afternoon, with the visit in the second largest cave in the world in between.

I can vouch it’s possible to have such a crazy Slovenia itinerary in one day as it happened to me too: in the morning I saw Alps, before noon I was walking around Ljubljana , the charming capital, in the afternoon I was at the seaside only to finish the day in Maribor – one of the main cities in Slovenia, located in the east part of the country!

But I wouldn’t recommend such a craziness, it’s better to visit Slovenia properly and enjoy the place and all the Slovenia attractions to the fullest!

Slovenia essentials

Planning a trip to Slovenia? Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I either use Viator
• Get insured for your trip to Slovenia with SafetyWing

Slovenia was the first country during my Balkan travels that I’ve visited back in 2002 (although I know it’s not so much Balkans anymore, more like Central Europe ). Since then it always had a special place in my heart.

That’s when I first saw how diverse and interesting it is, kind of like the mix of the Balkan soul with the Austrian neatness. Nature was also very generous for Slovenia, putting all of the wonders in such a tiny land, making the list of “Slovenia must see” really long.

I’ve been returning a few times to the country and it always kept me busy with new attractions I needed to discover and places to visit in Slovenia.

Even now, so many years and visits later, my list of top things to do in Slovenia is just growing and I’m so excited to see more of the country in the future.

Table of Contents

Best things to do in Slovenia

In the meantime, I’ve asked fellow travel bloggers what to see and do in Slovenia. I added some of my favorites and we came up with this “best of Slovenia” list.

I hope it will inspire you to travel to Slovenia soon and you will enjoy it as much as we did!

So, here we go with some ideas of what to do in Slovenia!

Wander around Ljubljana

I personally think Ljubljana is one of the most charming capitals in Europe. As the whole country, it’s rather small and easy to walk around – that’s actually one of the best things to do in Ljubljana.

The old town is just the cutest with houses painted to warm colors.

The riverbank is leafy and perfect for lazy strolls or relaxing cup of coffee.

The castle towering the city offers spectacular views of the area, even as far as to Julian Alps mountains.

But for the best views of Ljubljana Old Town head to the cafe on the last floor of Neboticnik.

While the old town is all cute and charming Ljubljana has an edgy site too and that’s the best seen at Metelkova – a complex of old barracks turned into the cultural space. That’s the heart of alternative Ljubljana with numerous art galleries, bars, cultural institutions and lots of amazing street art around.

If Metelkova is not enough for you, check ROG factory too, a similar space but closer to the old town.

You can also go for a tour to get to know Ljubljana – I recommend Ljubljana and Ljubljana Castle Sightseeing Tour. Click here for more details and to book the place.

Admire Plecnik’s architecture of Ljubljana

Stephanie from History Fangirl enjoyed the architecture of Ljubljana created by Joze Plecnik:

“My favorite thing when traveling is to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

While Ljubljana doesn’t have its own full UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a tentative site under the title “The Timeless, Humanistic Architecture of Joze Plecnik.” This site comprises the architecture of Plecnik, who transformed the architecture of Ljubljana after an earthquake knocked down much of the town’s main sites.

It’s thought that he had an influence on the city greater than Gaudi had on Barcelona, as nearly every major aspect of Ljubljana’s architecture is influenced by the work he did from the 1920’s to 1940’s.

While visiting Ljubljana, it’s impossible to overestimate how much of the dreamy, feminine landscape informs the visitor’s experience.

Ljubljana’s reputation as both a romantic and fantastical travel destination owes so much to Plecnik’s work.

During my time in the city, I adored walking through the city appreciating each individual building and how they form an ensemble.

Every visitor who enjoys a lazy afternoon people watching on the river, strolling its banks, or getting lost in the historic center owes Plecnik their gratitude.”

Falling for Lake Bled

Rashmi & Chalukya from GOBeyondBounds really enjoyed Lake Bled, and I definitely can see why as this is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia!

Here’s what they have to say about it:

“Lake Bled is among the most popular Slovenia attractions and one of the best places to see in Slovenia.

The stunning picture of the fairytale island church or the Church of the Assumption of Maria sits in the middle of the Lake Bled in a picturesque setting.

There are plenty of things to do in Bled .

Take a walk along the lake promenade enjoying the views.

You can go boating on the Lake Bled and visit the beautiful island church on the traditional Pletna boats.

You can visit the Bled Castle which sits on the cliff overlooking the Lake Bled.

The castle has several buildings, museums, cafe and a souvenir shop.

The Castle can be reached through a set of stairs along the lake promenade.

You can go hiking to the Ojstrica, viewpoint which offers a picture-perfect view of Lake Bled and the island church.”

If you would like to learn more about Bled and its history join the Lake Bled and Bled Castle Tour – click here for more details.

Mel from TravelingMel.com is another fan of Bled but she has visited the town in the winter time. And found plenty of things to do then too!

“Any time is a good time to visit Lake Bled, but winter is especially magical.

Snow caps the mountains and the lake is frozen with its little church glistening on the island.

It’s like walking into a winter wonderland or a fairytale.

Winter in Lake Bled means outdoor recreation.

Some years the lake freezes and you can rent skates at the Park Restaurant and Cafe.

After sliding around on the ice, a hot cocoa and a slice of Bled’s famous cream cake warms you right up.

The castle is open all year and ripe for exploring – without the crowds—in winter.

Nearby, there are opportunities to cross-country ski, snowshoe, and alpine ski in Triglav National Park.”

Eating the famous cream cake in Bled with the stunning view

When you’re in Bled don’t miss the famous cream cake there. It’s a calories bomb but every bite is so worth it!

While it was created in Hotel Park and that’s where you will eat the original one I’d recommend heading to Cafe Belvedere, a little bit further from the center of Bled.

The cafe is hidden in the forest above the lake, few steps away from the former Tito’s villa (that you can stay at as well – click here to see the details and current rates ) and offers amazing views of the area.

You’re literally in front of the island with the church. I can’t think of a better place in Bled to eat the cream cake or just about anything else.

The cafe itself is worth paying more attention too as well.

It was designed by Joze Plecnik and served as a waiting hall before the audience with King Alexander of Yugoslavia.

That’s also where Tito hosted his tea and cognac parties.

Discovering a little gem – Radovljica

Only 10 minutes away from Lake Bled you will find Radovljica – a little gem of Slovenia.

Not many know about this place, often bypassing it on the way to the mountains, but it’s worth to stop here for three reasons: beautiful center, Beekeping Museum and Gingerbread Museum.

I enjoyed the museums so much, especially the first one where I learned a lot about bees and honey.

Radovljica is also a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Bled and enjoy Slovenia without the crowds.

Hiking Vintgar Gorge

If you’re in Bled be sure to hike Vintgar Gorge too, as Val & Nick from Wandering Wheatleys recommend:

“Vintgar Gorge is short but spectacular hike located just 3 miles northwest of the darling town of Bled.

Tourists and locals alike flock to this picturesque area to escape the bustling town.

At the start of the hike you’ll marvel at the massive limestone walls covered in moss that tower above you.

Further along the gorge narrows and narrow wooden walkways have been constructed to allow visitors to continue the trek while the powerful river rushes underneath your path.

Along the way you’ll pass several small waterfalls as well as an impressive stone railway bridge overhead that was constructed in 1906.

At the end of the hike you’ll come to a suspension bridge that crosses the 40′ high Šum Waterfall.

Be sure to descend the stairs behind the ticket office and cross to the platform at the base of the falls for the best viewpoint.

The hike is just 2 miles round trip and should take about 90 minutes.

You’ll need to pay an entrance fee of 5€ per person to enter the area.”

You can visit Vintgar Gorge, together with Bled, as a part of the tour from Ljubljana – click here for more details.

Skiing in Kranjska Gora

I visited Kranjska Gora only to attend ski flying competition in Planica but I just loved the place.

Nichola from Globalmouse Travels went skiing there and that’s what she says about it:

“Slovenia has to be one of the best places to ski in Europe. With friendly, kind instructors and really affordable skiing, it’s a wonderful place to get on to the slopes.

We skied in Kranjska Gora which was almost fairytale like in appearance and a great location for beginners and intermediates in particular to learn to ski.

There’s a picture perfect market in the centre and plenty of places to eat, including opportunities to try out some of the local dumplings and hearty Slovenian stews.

Kranjska Gora is also ideally placed for a day trip into Ljubljana or even Venice which breaks up time on the snow.

For somewhere that’s different but packed full of character and genuinely warm greetings Kranjska Gora is one of our favourite places to ski and also enjoy the beautiful Slovenia sights.”

Visiting Lake Jasna and Vršič Pass

Elaine and Dave from Show Them the Globe really loved Lake Jasna and Vršič Pass:

“Lake Jasna, one of the most beautiful places to go in Slovenia, is nestled in the Triglav National Park in the northwest of the country.

The lakes crystal clear waters reflect the stunning Julian mountains through which the Vršič Pass ascends.

The lake is a perfect day trip from Lake Bled (it’s only a 40-minute drive) and is a popular swimming and picnic spot.

The Vršič Pass is a winding mountain road which snakes up the Julian Alps from Lake Jasna.

The road is closed for over 5 months a year due to snow and when possible the drive is not for the faint of heart.

The serpentine road winds its way up the gorge and includes over 50 hairpin bends.

Some of the bends and parts of the route are limited to a single lane so care is needed when driving up!

The drive is worth it, however, as the views along the route are simply spectacular. We stopped so many times to take photos that it took us over 2 hours to reach the summit of the pass with its incredible views across the Triglav National Park.”

You can visit Lake Jasna as part of Triglav National Park Tour – click here for more details.

Admiring Slap Savica

Alex from Swedish Nomad suggests hiking to the waterfall Slap Savica close to Bohinj, and I can definitely second this recommendation.

Even if it was tiring to climb all the stairs what was waiting at the end was very rewarding.

Here’s what Alex says:

“Slap Savica is one of Slovenia’s most spectacular waterfalls. It’s the source of Sava Bohinjka, and the third most visited attraction.

What makes it even more special is the fact that its watercourse is divided into two parts in the hidden undergrounds.

To go here, you can either walk along the marked trail, or take a car/bicycle to the Savica hut and parking place. From there it’s just a short walk to the waterfall.

The entrance fee is currently 3 Euro.

Many visitors also take the chance to drink the spring water here, which is said to have healing powers and make you look younger.

If you’re traveling to Lake Bled or Bohinj, a stop at Slap Savica should be on every itinerary.

The color of the water is mesmerizing, and the waterfall always has a good flow.

NOTE: it can get crowded here, and you should also know that there’s a fence blocking the access to the waterfall. So, this is an attraction you just have to admire with your eyes as it’s not possible to go for a swim here.”

Falling in love even more with Bohinj

Bohinj is at the very top of my “best places to visit in Slovenia” list.

I was a bit wary before my second trip there, not being sure if it was really that spectacular or that was just my memory idealizing the place but as it turned out there was nothing to worry about.

Bohinj is jaw dropping! Crystal clear waters of the lake meet with harsh slopes of mountains creating an unforgettable landscape.

The most popular image of Bohinj is the idyllic view of the bridge and a small church in the back but when you go to the other side of the lake (preferably by boat, it’s such a beautiful experience!) it’s even more stunning there!

If you are short on time I recommend joining Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj trip from Ljubljana. You will see all the highlights in one day. Click here for the details and to book the spot.

Taking the cable car up to Vogel mountain

While you’re at Lake Bohinj don’t miss the cable car up to Vogel mountain.

On a clear day you’re in for a treat as views from up there are just spectacular! You can admire Lake and the surrounding area with high peaks of the most beautiful mountains in Slovenia!

When I visited it was cloudy and the landscape was barely visible but what I could see was still really impressive.

This is probably the easiest way to see best views of stunning Julian Alps from above.

In the winter time you can also go skiing at Vogel.

Going for one of the most unusual train rides ever

Kylie from Between England and Iowa went for the car train ride between Most na Soci and Bohinjska Bistrica and loved it. I definitely share her enthusiast for this journey as I took it too and it was so much fun!

Here’s what Kylie says:

“An interesting way to see the Slovenian scenery is from the car train! It’s a 40 minute journey between Most Na Soci and Bohinjska Bistrica and costs around 40 Euro per vehicle (passengers included).

Cars drive onto a decked platform. There’s not much space between the cars and the railings, you can get out when the train is in the station but you do have to stay in the vehicle while the train is moving!

Of course I recommend sitting in the front seat to get the best views!

The route cuts right through a mountain range going through one particular tunnel that’s 6327 meters in length, plunging you into the darkness for 7 minutes!

Keep an eye out at some of the stations along the way, to ‘change tracks’ a man will jump on a bicycle and switch the track manually!”

Getting the adrenaline rush in Bovec

When I visited Bovec I was really unlucky with the weather as it was raining cats and dogs and I couldn’t do any of my planned activities (like zip-line that I was really excited about).

But LeAnna from WellTraveledNebraskan had a great time in Bovec, here’s what she says:

“It seems like just about anywhere you go in Slovenia, you are greeted by gorgeous views and plenty to do.

However, out of all our stops in Slovenia, our favorite by far, was making a base camp (no, literally…we tent-camped) near Bovec – one of the best places in Slovenia.

We chose Bovec because of the sheer amount of things that we could do nearby in addition to our phenomenal views of camping at the foothills of the gorgeous mountains!

For adventure seekers, you can go white water rafting on the Soca river or for those wanting to see the gorgeous blue waters of the river without getting IN it, you can hike through the stunning Soca Gorge or head nearby for waterfall views and swims!

Of course, we HAD to make the drive up into the mountains where you can actually stand and look out into Italy, Slovenia AND Austria all simultaneously!!!

There was plenty to do for all types of travelers (shoot, we went as a family!) from those looking for a bit of nature and respite to adventure seekers.

The views are second to none, the food delicious and the memories will last a life-time!”

Here are some of the activities you can do in Bovec (click on the link for more details):

• Rafting on Soča River
• Mounatin Caving Adventure
• Kayaking on the Soča River
• Sušec Stream Canyoning in the Soča Valley

Visiting Brda, the wine region of Slovenia

Ellie from Soul Travel included Brda in her Slovenia itinerary , here’s why:

“Nestled right up against the Italian border, Goriska Brda is one of Slovenia’s finest wine regions.

Haven’t heard of Slovenian wine? You’d be forgiven, as most of it is consumed within Slovenia before exporters get a look in.

After a visit to Edi Simcic winery in Brda we were smitten, particularly with the light whites we tasted against a backdrop of rolling hills and farmhouses that looked every bit as beautiful as Tuscany.

You can happily spend a day or two touring wine estates in the Brda region (either book a tour or contact wine estates independently), we recommend staying at the beautiful San Martin hotel (click here to see the details and book the place!). ”

Enjoying another wine region of Slovenia – Vipava valley

Vipava Valley is another Slovenian region famous for its wine, a really good one.

Due to the microclimate the fruits grow here much better and as a result we can enjoy amazing wines and preserves.

But there are more reasons to visit Vipava Valley.

The area is very scenic and kind of idyllic, making it a perfect getaway to rest and enjoy the surrounding nature and views.

If you’re into bike trips this is also a place for you!

You can visit both Brda and Vipava as a day trip from Ljubljana – click here for more details .

Visiting Gorica

Karen from Wanderlustingk suggests visiting Gorica – one of the unknown regions of Slovenia:

“Gorica is one of Slovenia’s hidden gems.

This beautiful wine region in Slovenia, close to the Italian border, has medieval cities, stunning vineyards, and a quiet beauty that makes you wonder how everyone isn’t going crazy over the area.

I ended up going to Šmartno, one of the old medieval towns built onto a hilltop. I loved wandering around the ancient streets with ivy everywhere is straight out of a fairytale.

Be sure to try the one euro wine at any of the local cafes that is just as good as the Italian wine on the other side of the border (which you can see from there).

Luckily, ecotourism dominates here, so you can feel good in knowing that your money is going back to the community.

If you’re interested in the local wine (both red and white), you can rent a bike to cycle along the rolling hills and to visit many of the wineries.”

Exploring mining and lace town Idrija

Kristin from TravelPast50 enjoyed the mining town Idrija a lot and recommends visiting it too:

“A worthwhile day trip from Ljubljana, up into the heart of Slovenia, is Idrija. This mountain town, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was a busy center of mercury mining for nearly 500 years.

The surrounding landscape belies the hardships of this industry, but a visit reveals the engineering and labor, fortitude and devastation the mercury mines engendered.

Idrija’s mercury mining started in 1490. The mine was closed temporarily in 1977, reopened later, but finally closed for good in 1988.

Luckily, a new industry of making electronic components was already underway.

Before touring the mines, a walk along the Idrija canal demonstrates how this alpine city has turned its history into an advantage.

The canal was built to divert water from the Idrijca river to a giant water wheel used until the 1940s to pump water from the mines. The canal now lines a beautiful recreation path through the woods, and the water runs clear.

The effects of mercury mining are laid out in a fascinating hour-long mine tour.

Of course, the brutal work took its toll on the miners. Smelters generally survived only five years on the job; others rarely lived beyond age 40.

Women In the town survived by remarrying and by providing for themselves–often making intricate lace.

Today, Idrija hosts a lace festival every June, marked by traditional and contemporary lace and fashion designs.”

Relaxing in the seaside town Portoroz

Carolyn of Holidays to Europe went to the small but charming seaside of Slovenia and had a really good time in Portoroz .

Here’s why you should visit it too:

“Slovenia’s top attraction and popular coastal resort town of Portoroz offers plenty of things to do.

Aside from the town’s pretty setting right on the sea, one of the main reasons visitors come to Portoroz are for its thermal and mineral spas.

Visitors have flocked to Portoroz since the 13th century when Monks discovered the healing properties of the sea water and the nearby Secovlje Salt Pans.

Here you can watch how salt is harvested and test out the benefits of brine and salt-pan mud in an outdoor spa.

In the town’s spa and wellness centers, particularly the beautiful Kempinski Palace Hotel, today’s visitors can re-charge their batteries and be pampered with various wellness therapies and spa treatments.

Thermal spas are just one of the things to do in Portoroz, though.

The waters of the Mediterranean are popular in summer for a refreshing swim, and the sandy beach is perfect for a stroll.

Seaside restaurants and cafes offer the perfect excuse to stop and admire the views and the promenade is the place to be seen on a summer’s evening.

If you prefer to be a bit more active, there are some excellent bike paths and walking trails around Portoroz.

One recommended walk is along the Pilgrim’s Path in Strunjan Nature Reserve where you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of Moon Bay.”

Falling for the charming town of Piran

Kathy from 50 shades of age visited Piran and was enchanted by its beauty.

“During a Mediterranean Cruise last year we opted to do a cycling tour to the town of Piran in Slovenia.

Due to inclement weather the cycling tour was cancelled so instead we set off towards the seaside town of Piran with a tour guide in the comfort of a SUV.

We drove through the port town of Koper and via green pastures, valleys and forest for around half an hour until we reached the charming coastal town of Piran.

We were immediately struck by the charm and beauty of this seaside town and learnt that Piran was part of the Venetian empire from the late 13th century to the end of the 18th century and then part of Italy from 1918 til 1947.

We arrived into the central town square and felt as though we had stepped right into a picture postcard. Ambling through the narrow laneways in the old town we learnt that most of the buildings possessed Venetian architecture and rich frescoes.

In the small bay fisherman were unraveling their fishing nets on the piers and locals were sitting by the sea, chatting and enjoying the warm sunshine and the sparkling sea along the promenade or riva.

What a gorgeous place to spend a leisurely Sunday in the sun!”

Discovering hidden beauty of Koper

Koper might not be the most obvious seaside choice in Slovenia – it’s known mostly for its big harbor and the entry point to the Slovenian coast . But the town has much more to offer.

The area was inhabited already in the ancient times and you can find around many remnants of the great past.

The old town is small but charming, with Titov Trg as its central square.

Be sure to climb the bell tower that offers great views of the city and afterwards get lost in the maze of the beautiful narrow streets.

Don’t miss the stroll around the marina too and enjoy the sea breeze!

Finding the true gem – the walled church in Hrastovlje

When speeding the motorway to Koper turn inland some 20kms before the city and you will find one of the biggest gems of Slovenia – Holy Trinity Church in Hrastovlje.

It is surrounded by the thick wall built in the 16th century that was made to protect the local people from the Turkish attacks.

From the outside the church doesn’t look that impressive but inside you will find spectacular Gothic frescoes from the end of the 15th century with the most famous one of the “Danse Macabre” (Dance of Death).

You can visit both Koper and Hrastovlje as a day trip from Ljubljana – click here for the details.

Admiring views of Velika Planina

Chrysoula from Travel Passionate suggests area of Velika Planina and The Herdsmen’s settlement:

“If you find yourself in Slovenia, Velika Planina is a natural piece of heaven that you simply can’t miss.

This amazing area is a great spot to start a hiking trip and enjoy the beautiful view of the Kamnik Alps and the whole Ljubljana basin.

You can also spend some days simply admiring the Velika Planina area and The Herdsmen Settlement that can be found here.

The Herdmens settlement in this part of Slovenia is unique in size and beauty amongst Europe and makes for an interesting trip for foreigners every year.

And if you do manage to make it to this part of the world, get ready to be charmed by an atmosphere that seems like it’s coming from a different timeframe.

You will find small cottages with roofs made of pine shingles which look more like huts than houses.

The best time to visit The Herdsmen Settlement is between June and September when herdsmen are present and taking care of their animals.

You will be spoiled with delicious dairy products and traditional dishes made by the herdsmen themselves.”

Underground kayaking in Mežica mine

A friend of mine Ewa went kayaking in Mežica mine and recommends it as one of the best Slovenia activities:

“Mining of zinc and lead ore finished in Mežica in 1994 and the mine was closed down what resulted in stopping the pumps that removed water from the lowest corridors.

In consequence, water flooded them. This did not mean the end of the mine.

Years later, it was reopened, this time as a tourist attraction, where you can now try underground kayaking.

You will get special gum boots, a suit and a helmet with a headlamp and take the original train, that the miners used to get down to work.

After that you will get into a kayak and start exploring the underground flooded tunnels. You can even swim down a small waterfall!

This adventure is followed by a lunch similar to that eaten by miners years ago – you can enjoy some cheese, pate, prsut ham and bread.

There is also a small museum!”

Exploring Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave is one of the most important things to see in Slovenia. But it gets the hype for a reason!

This is the second longest cave in the world, with around 20kms of underground corridors. Visitors get to see only 5,5 kms (most of which is ridden by train) but it is still so impressive!

The Postojna Cave is huge and incredibly beautiful, you walk around with the jaw dropped.

It is also very diverse and the views around change often, another one is better than previous.

What’s more there are numerous events hosted inside the cave, such as music concerts or basketball games!

Visiting Predjama Castle

Another one of amazing Slovenia destinations, located only 9kms away from Postojna Cave is Predjama Castle – one of the most unique castles in the world.

Part of it is hidden in cave that in the 15th century saved the local knight and owner – Erazm of Predjama.

To everyone’s huge surprise he managed to survive in the castle for a year of siege, teasing attackers by throwing fresh fruits at them.

Eventually he was betrayed by one of the servants and killed when he was in the toilet.

It’s definitely worth to go inside the castle – the exhibitions might be so-so but seeing the construction glued to the rocks and cave is really impressive!

You can visit both Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle as part of one tour – click here for more details .

Exploring another famous underground system – Skocjan Caves

Corinne from Reflections Enroute recommends visiting another amazing underground system – Skocjan Caves :

“ Skocjan Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site in Slovenia, not far from the border of Italy.

Tucked into this small corner of the country, these caves are massive. It’s hard to believe that such big holes are hidden underground.

You can only visit the caves on a guided tour, which they do in many different languages.

After meeting up with your guide, you have a short walk to the entrance, and the very beginning of the descent into the caves is probably the smallest tunnel, which for some is difficult if they suffer at all from claustrophobia.

However that tunnel quickly opens up to the rooms and caverns that are so large that in some many people can be in there and it won’t feel crowded.

The tour lasts about two hours and there is a lot of standing, climbing and descending of stairs, but it is a wonderful experience.

We had a few small children on our tour and they enjoyed it as well.

If you are visiting Slovenia, don’t miss Skocjan Caves!”

You can combine visiting Skocjan Caves with Piran – click here for details on the tour .

Falling for Ptuj

Even if these days Ptuj is a small and quiet town at the outskirts of the country there’s so much history behind it.

Did you know this is the oldest town in Slovenia, dating back to the Stone Age times?

The current look of the center comes from the Austria-Hungary time, with the castle towering above the red-roofed houses.

If you would like to spend some time in a charming town where life goes by slowly then Ptuj is for you.

The nearby Terme Ptuj Thermal Park is a perfect place to relax. Click here to see more details and book the place!

Visiting Maribor – second biggest city in Slovenia

While most of the tourists focus on Ljubljana Maribor, located in the east of the country (not far from Ptuj, mentioned above), is well worth a visit too.

This is one of the best cities in Slovenia, founded in the 12th century and up to this day is full of great things to do in Maribor , interesting monuments or charming lanes and corners.

Maribor also has a great alternative to Ljubljana’s Metelkova -it’s called Pekarna and it’s the independent culture hub located in the former military bakery.

But Maribor is mostly known thanks to wine.

Vineyards are located just outside the center (you can clearly see them on the surrounding hills), the city is also home to the oldest grapevine in the world!

Maribor and Ptuj make a perfect day trip from Ljubljana – click here for the details .

Stopping in Celje on the way between Maribor and Ljubljana

I feel like Celje is one of the most underrated cities in Slovenia.

This is yet another charming place with the architecture from Austria-Hungary times and red rooftops all over the center.

It’s worth to go up to the castle towering above to get the best views of the city and surrounding area as well as to learn numerous legends about the place.

What I liked the most, however, was the local museum in Celje showing the recent history of the city so no boring artifacts from the past. It was such a gem!

Relaxing at Terme Olimia Wellness

Denise from Inhetvliegtuig.nl spent some time relaxing at Terme Olimia Wellness and definitely recommends that:

“Terme Olimia is located in the small town of Podcetrtek, in the east of Slovenia. It’s the largest wellness center in Slovenia, with several hotel options.

Tourists, locals and top athletes come here for peace, tranquility, and rehabilitation.

If you don’t have kids and want to enjoy the silence, visit the adults-only Wellness Center Orhidelia. A very chic complex with great spa-facilities, a gym, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

Families are welcome at Wellness Centre Termalija. Where they have great facilities for kids as well.

Both places are connected with an underground corridor.

Looking for two or three days of pure relaxation, after an exhausting Slovenia road trip? Book your stay at Hotel Sotelia and enjoy all the wellness facilities.

The whole place is surrounded by lush green trees, mountains and picturesque village. You won’t regret it! Click here to read more and book the place! ”

Visiting Slovenia – practical information

How to get to slovenia.

The easiest way is flying.

Ljubljana international airport is located some 20kms away from the city and is served by numerous airlines from all over Europe, the main one being Adria – Slovenian national airlines.

Landing in here is a real treat as the views are breathtaking.

Slovenia is also fairly well connected by train, there are daily direct connections between Ljubljana and Italy ( Trieste and Udine), Croatia ( Zagreb ) and Austria (Villach, Graz and Vienna ). Visit the website of Slovenian Railways to check the schedule.

There are also buses serving numerous international routes all over Europe. You can get all the information at the website of Ljubljana bus station.

How to travel around Slovenia?

The best way would be to rent a car – driving in Slovenia is easy as roads are very good.

But don’t worry if you need to rely on public transport as it’s not that bad either. Vast network of trains and buses can get you to numerous places all over the country.

Some of the tourist attractions are best visited with the tours for the ease of getting around. Click here to see some and book for yourself some of the best day trips in Slovenia!

Where to stay in Slovenia?

You might want to have a base and explore the area. Some of the best places to stay at are Ljubljana , Bled , Bovec , Maribor or the seaside ( Portoroz , Piran or Koper ).

Recommended tours in Slovenia

As mentioned above sometimes it’s the best to got for organized tour. You will see more that way and won’t have to deal with public transport not being as frequent as we all wish. Click here to see some and book for yourself some of the best day trips in Slovenia!

Travel insurance for Slovenia

I never travel without the insurance as you never know what might happen on the road and better safe than sorry ( I’ve learnt my lesson ).

I can recommend SafetyWing that offer the insurance dedicated to travelers just like you and me.

Click here to get the insurance policy for Slovenia here.

Map of Slovenia

And here is a map with all the best Slovenia attractions listed above!

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• If you don’t want to miss new posts and news from me click here to sign to my newsletter! You can also follow me on Bloglovin!
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Slovenia too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. If you like what you are reading and seeing here and would like to support me and my blog please consider using those links. It would be like getting me a virtual drink that you don’t have to pay for! Thanks!

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Dear Kami, I have been reading your posts for some time and I must say that I like the precision with which you approach your topics. My impression is that you explore them into depth and thus provide a handful of useful information to fellow travelers. And most importantly: you definitely succeed at filling your readers with wanderlust! (At least that is the case of myself. :)) I have decided to comment on this post because I live in Maribor, Slovenia, and I was glad to see that my home country was described in such a positive and inviting way. However, I find it quite paradoxical that in Slovene’s public discourse there is a lot of moaning about the smallness of our country while many travelers and tourists perceive it as a uniquely pleasing trait. I found out that the more I travel and explore the world the more I like Slovenia. Not in a cynical way. Rather in a way that the comparison – or the contrast – helps to reevaluate the perception of the country. Now I see Slovenia as my harbor from which I explore the world and where I return to rejuvenate. And, yes, it IS very beautiful! ;) I gladly read your blog and I wish you safe and pleasant journeys! Maruša

Dear Maruša, thank you so much for your kind comment, it made my day. I’m glad you enjoyed the post. I honestly think Slovenia is one of the most beautiful and diverse countries in Europe and the fact that it’s so small is only an advantage really. And I definitely understand you with more appreciating your own country, it’s been the same with me and Poland too :) Thank you again! Happy travels!

Lovely images of Slovenia…Thanks for sharing us …Definitely, Slovenia is an amazing place for travelling. Your pictures make me crazy and now I’m planning to explore it. thanks for sharing very good information through this post.

Thank you. I hope you will be able to go there soon.

Tina Twovelers

Hello :) I am planning my trip around Slovenia and I red all articles around internet and I think this is definitely the best article about Slovenia I found. Lot of nice places and recommendations here, handy tips and nice structure. Thanks for writing this :)

Keep going Tina Twovelers

Thank you Tina! Have a great trip to Slovenia!

Anna Schwabentraum.com

Thank you so much for all your inspiration! Can´t wait for our trip to Slovenia in June.

Happy Monday

I hope you had a great trip! Slovenia is such an amazing country! All the best!

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Best Places to Visit in the Mountains of Slovenia

Disclosure: This post (probably) contains affiliate links. If you click on one, I may make a small commission. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running.

Of all the things that Slovenia is known for, the country’s nature and mountains have to rank at the absolute top. Which is why it was strange that I’d barely seen that side of the country in past visits. Sure, cities and towns like Ljubljana and Piran are easy to like. But in Slovenia, mountains are a defining feature of the country and I always felt like I was missing something. Thanks to my Slovenia tour with Mateja Travel this year, I feel like I’ve properly connected with the country now.

There are three alpine ranges that stretch across the north and west of the country. Between the Julian Alps, Kamnik–Savinja Alps and the Karawanks you’ll find a superb variety in the best outdoor destinations in Slovenia. The mountains, lakes and rivers that cover this part of the country offer countless beautiful places and opportunities for activities. To help you choose what you might like to do, here are the best places to visit in Slovenia’s mountains.

Table of Contents

If there’s one place that people know of in the mountains of Slovenia then it’s scenic Lake Bled . There’s just so many reasons to adore this place that seems pulled from a fairytale. The downside though is that it’s popularity means that it’s rarely without masses of tourists.

The attraction starts with the incredible colour of the lake’s water. Crystal clear up close, the water takes on a turquoise hue when you take a step back. Then there’s the perfect little scene created by the Church on the Island. Taking a small pletna out to this lonely spot couldn’t be more lovely.

Vying for your attention is also Bled Castle, perched on a steep cliff over the lake with the Alps as its backdrop. You get some stunning views here, but not quite as phenomenal as those from the Ojstrica viewpoint. After a little hike up here, you’re rewarded with a view that puts all of this together for your unblinking eyes.

For a Bled visit with a twist, you should look at the Nočna desetka race. This 10km run takes place around Lake Bled at night and is a fun way to add some outdoor activities into your Slovenia travels.

Related: The Best Places to Visit in Slovenia Beyond Ljubljana

Velika Planina

From most popular we jump to a lesser known mountain destination in Slovenia called Velika Planina , a name you’ll surely want to remember. This scenic pastoral plateau in the Kamnik–Savinja Alps is a classic hiking destination in Slovenia and a really good day trip from Ljubljana. The plateau is best known for its picturesque mountain huts that dot the fields across the mountain scenery.

While it is possible to take a cable car and ski lifts up from Kamniška Bistrica, I’d recommend doing the hike from the Žaga area. Starting out at one of the many car parks, you can head up through the forest to reach the plateau. While the forest section is moderately steep, the trails flatten out once you clear the tree line. You’re then treated to the gorgeous rural landscape, with traditional huts scattered about.

Sadly, the original huts here were destroyed by the Germans in WWII, but their replacements keep the old-fashioned nature of Velika Planina alive and well. It’s even possible to rent a mountain hut for the night if you like. Oh and one last word of warning. It may not feel like it, but Velika Planina sits at 1,500 metres so there’s a decent change in elevation with a day trip here.

Triglav National Park

When talking about Slovenia outdoors destinations, there’s no way we can leave out Triglav National Park . After all, this important national park is home to Slovenia’s highest peak on Mount Triglav. But there’s much more to this huge national park beyond just one mountain in the Julian Alps.

Slovenia’s only national park, there are many impressive peaks to be seen here. But with those mountains you also get valleys, some of which like Krma Valley are stunning all on their own. With so much breathtaking terrain within its borders, Triglav National Park is definitely the chief Slovenia hiking destination. Countless hiking trails zigzag across its mountainous landscape and mountain huts mean you can spend days exploring to your hearts content. 

Of course, the ultimate challenge offered by the national park is the chance to climb Mt Triglav . At 2864 metres, Triglav is not to be underestimated. Our hike there over two days in June included plenty of snow and ice, and was only possible thanks to our climbing equipment and my excellent guide Škof. While we encountered few others up there, it gets much busier up there when all the snow has cleared. Still a monumental feat regardless and one you soon won’t forget.

Related: What It’s Like to Hike Triglav, Slovenia’s Highest Peak

Soca Valley

Hidden within Slovenia’s Alps, the Soca Valley is pretty much an outdoor adventure playground for travellers. This lush valley that follows the enchanting Soca River is a paradise for nature-lovers and thrill seekers. Spotted with rivers, canyons, gorges, waterfalls, forests and mountains, it has everything you could ask for in terms of nature. Sightseeing in the Soca Valley is a real treat thanks to spots like Kozjak Waterfall and the Great Soča Gorge.

But if gentle sightseeing seems a little tame for you, never fear, as the Soca Valley has plenty to get your blood pumping. The town of Bovec in the valley is Slovenia’s adventure capital and the base of operations for many adventure activities. Thanks to the region’s rivers and gorges, rafting and canyoning are two of the most popular activities here. Other options include skydiving, zip-lining, bungee jumping, mountain biking, hiking and plenty more.

Yet another way to experience this hidden valley of beauty in the Julian Alps is with the Bovec Marathon . One of many Slovenia marathons that take place in the country’s warmer months, this race gives runners the ultimate scenery for their herculean challenge. With a marathon like this, you get the benefit of combining the accomplishment of running the race, with days of sightseeing in this gorgeous slice of Slovenia.

Related: A Fantastic Time Sightseeing in the Soca Valley, Slovenia

It turns out the Vršič Pass is more than just the route between the Soca Valley and the Kranjska Gora ski resort. This pass through the Julian Alps actually has a few sights along its many, many switchbacks. Not only does it show off the majesty of the mountains in Slovenia with its views, but a few curious landmarks along the way.

Perhaps the best known stop along the road through the pass is the Russian Chapel, a landmark with a dark past despite its pretty exterior. That’s because this wooden Russian Orthodox chapel was built to commemorate the Russian POWs who died building the Vršič Pass road during WWI. The chapel was finished in 1916 to remember POWs who died due to avalanches or working conditions.

On the southern side of the pass, another place to stop at is the monument to Dr. Julius Kugy. This memorial is at a spot with some beautiful views of the valley and mountains. It seems a fitting spot for this monument, given that Kugy was one of Slovenia’s most prolific mountaineers and was the first up several of Slovenia’s mountain summits. 

Lake Bled is the best known lake in Slovenia and tends to suffer the consequences of that popularity. For a lake destination that doesn’t find itself overwhelmed with tourists, you need only look to the region of Bohinj . Centred on Lake Bohinj, this area not far from Bled is a fantastic and peaceful alternative.

There’s a lot to love about Lake Bohinj. It’s the largest lake in Slovenia and enjoys the country’s signature icy clear water that is truly captivating to look at. During summertime, locals often come to Bohinj to swim, kayak and stand-up paddleboard. It’s easy to understand why when you have the soaring mountains of Triglav National Park looming over you to the north.

Besides spending time on the lake, the area around Bohinj has plenty of other things to do. For instance, you can explore the source of the lake with the Sava Bohinjka River and its magical, emerald colour. Little trails follow the river taking you from forest one moment to gleaming white stone beaches the next. Then there are all the hiking trails that loop around the lake and head up into the nearby mountains, creating endless possibilities for walks.

Whether you visit in winter or summer, there’s good reason to pay a trip to a Slovenia outdoor spot like Vogel . This 1922 metre-high mountain is a ski resort that overlooks Lake Bohinj. But even if you don’t ski, there’s plenty of reasons to make the trip up there.

For starters, Vogel ski resort is accessed by a nice cable car ride that just keeps going and going. Once you’re at the top, you’re presented with a superb view over Lake Bohinj, not to mention the mountain peaks of Triglav National Park. Honestly, this may be the best view of Slovenia’s highest peaks without actually climbing them yourself.

As for the ski resort, there’s plenty to do once you’re up there. In winter, you’ll naturally have the chance to ski and snowboard in the park’s well-maintained ski runs and snowpark. When summer rolls around and the snow melts, the area becomes perfect for gentle hikes and nature walks. It may not seem overly elaborate, but Vogel is just good, simple fun.

One place that I was glad Mateja introduced me to during my Slovenia trip was Jezersko . Pressed right up against the border with Austria, Jezersko sits in a valley at the foot of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps. Combining pleasant rural life with dramatic mountain scenery, it’s the perfect place for a quiet nature getaway.

Down in the valley, you’ll find bucolic landscapes home to quiet country resorts and lovely tourist farms . Then there are some pretty lakeside spots like Preddvor and the heart-shaped Planšarsko jezero. It’s a particularly pretty place to drive through, as the roads here wind through valleys and past small country chapels.

The big highlight here though is the hiking opportunities you have from the valley into the mountains. One of the best hikes is up to the Ceska Koca mountain hut. It’s not overly difficult for people where decent fitness and it takes you roughly a third of the way up into the mountains.

From Ceska Koca you can see some wonderful views down into the valley where you started. Plus, if you still have the legs, there’s plenty more trail and via ferrata if you want to continue on to the nearby passes or summits of Grintovec and Jezerska.

Which of these awesome Slovenia mountain destinations have you visited? Where else in the mountains of Slovenia would you recommend travellers visit ?  Please share them in the comments below.

*Disclosure: My tour in Slovenia with Mateja Travel was as a complimentary guest . As always, opinions are completely and genuinely my own. I wouldn’t recommend them otherwise!

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

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25 Beautiful Places to Visit in Slovenia

Slovenia may be a small country, but it is positively packed with beautiful places to visit!

Cities, castles, soaring mountains, picturesque beach towns, idyllic lakes, and even wine country: whatever kind of beauty you prefer, there’s no doubt that you can find the perfect Slovenia travel destination for you.

We’ve divided these places to go in Slovenia into several different categories to make it easy to find spots to your liking, but as you plan your trip, we highly recommend prioritizing visiting a variety of destinations in order to see a wide swath of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.

Table of Contents

Cities + Towns to Visit in Slovenia

Gorgeous slovenian lakes + waterfalls, more beautiful places in slovenia, beautiful castles to visit in slovenia, map of the best places to visit in slovenia.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Slovenia’s lively, funky capital city is packed full of interesting sights, from the Dragon Bridge to the incredible European street art in Metelkova to Ljubljana Castle that overlooks the city.

If you love visiting offbeat cities in Europe , be sure to start your Slovenia travels with a stay in Ljubljana!

Surrounded by hills used for growing wine grapes and packed with colorful buildings and interesting history, Slovenia’s second-largest city only gets a fraction of the visitors of Ljubljana–but that’s all the more reason to visit.

Situated on a tiny peninsula that juts into the Adriatic Sea, Piran is the jewel of Slovenia’s small slice of coastline and is easily among the most beautiful places to visit in Slovenia.

Known as the adventure capital of Slovenia, this small town is nestled in the Soca River Valley and is a fantastic base for exploring the river and all it has to offer.

The small village of Mojstrana is one of our personal favorite places in Slovenia, but this is due less to the village itself than what lies on its doorstep: unparalleled access to the beauty of Triglav National Park and–if you’re so inclined–Mr. Triglav itself.

The bigger, more bustling cousin of Piran, Portoroz is a gorgeous resort town along Slovenia’s Adriatic coastline, and home to historic spa treatments, a beautiful marina, and luxurious resorts.

Skofja Loka

Easily visited as a day trip from Ljubljana, this fairytale town is located right along the Sora River and overlooked by the picturesque Skofja Loka Castle, which you can tour today.

The most iconic of all these places to visit in Slovenia (and a feature on many Europe bucket lists ) definitely lives up to expectations!

B eautiful Lake Bled , complete with Bled Island in the center, is absolutely stunning and a fantastic place to visit.

Be sure to rent a rowboat for an afternoon, visit Bled Castle, and seek out the best Lake Bled viewpoints during your visit!

While summer is the most classic time to visit, the fall foliage is also beautiful, and there is still plenty to enjoy in and around Lake Bled in winter .

Savica Falls

Located near Lake Bohinj, the beautiful Savica Falls are only a short walk from the road and are an absolutely unforgettable sight.

Lake Bohinj

Less manicured than nearby Lake Bled, but every bit as beautiful, gorgeous Lake Bohinj is an unmissable stop in Slovenia–in addition to swimming and other watersports, the areas surrounding the lake are also popular for hikes long and short.

Boka Waterfall

This stunning, multi-step waterfall is surrounded by karst mountains and is incredibly visually striking. To see Boka Waterfall at its best, aim to visit in the springtime when the waterfall is at its most intense.

Pericnik Falls

As one of the highest waterfalls in Slovenia, Pericnik Falls is absolutely beautiful–and unlike many of Slovenian waterfalls, you can climb up and around it to admire it from all angles.

Vintgar Gorge

The brilliant, beautiful blue water of Vintgar Gorge paired with its craggy walls and collection of wooden boardwalks you can stroll down make it one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.

The boardwalks stretch for 1.6 kilometers, and it’s well worth spending the time to enjoy Vintgar Gorge from every angle.

Triglav National Park

The crown jewel of Slovenia’s natural beauty lies in Triglav National Park.

The craggy peak of Mt. Triglav itself is a national symbol of Slovenia, and the park includes some of the other best places to visit in Slovenia, including Lake Bohinj, Lake Jasna , many waterfalls, and Vogel, Slovenia’s best-known ski resort (and the mountain it was named after).

Postojna Caves

The most popular caves to visit in Slovenia, Postojna Caves are beautiful and enchanting, with soaring ceilings and incredible formations. You can also take a train ride through the caves, an attraction that was first launched in the 19th century!

Soca River Valley

The bright blue Soca River is arguably one of the most beautiful rivers in the world–and the Soca River Valley that surrounds it is one of the best places to visit in Slovenia, full of outdoor adventure activities and ways to appreciate the river’s beauty, from whitewater rafting to fishing to simply hiking along it.

Tolmin Gorge

The ice-blue water of the 1-kilometer long Tolmin Gorge is an unforgettable Slovenian destination–if you’re headed to western Slovenia, be sure not to miss it!

Skocjan Caves

Featuring a mesmerizing underground river that will make you feel like you’re descending into a fantasyland worthy of Tolkein’s Middle Earth and boasting an UNESCO World Heritage designation, the Skocjan Caves are one of the most unique places to see in Slovenia.

Logar Valley

Overlooked by the crisp peaks of the Julian Alps and almost overwhelming in its natural beauty, the Logar Valley in Slovenia is one of those places where the air itself simply feels a bit crisper and lovelier, and it is well worth visiting while in Slovenia.

Often referred to as Slovenia’s Tuscany, Brda is a small but celebrated wine region that is well worth visiting, and is packed full of delicious, award-winning wines, stunning countryside views, and lovely villages.

Bled Castle

Nestled high above iconic Lake Bled , Bled Castle is one of the most popular places to visit in Slovenia–in large part due to the absolutely phenomenal aerial views of Lake Bled and Bled Island that you can soak in from the castle and its grounds.

Predjama Castle

Of all these beautiful places to see in Slovenia, Predjama Castle may just have the most unique setting: this Renaissance-era castle, built in the 1500s on the site of previous castles that had been destroyed, is built directly into the mouth of a cave!

Rihemberk Castle

With a turret dating to the 13th century that is every bit the fairytale image of a castle and an impeccable location on a high hill above the village of Branik, Rihemberk Castle (also known as Branik Castle) is a fantastic place to visit in Slovenia.

Ljubljana Castle

Standing tall above the city of Ljubljana for the last 900 years, Ljubljana Castle is one of the most popular castles to visit in Slovenia today and is accessed by a funicular that will ferry modern visitors to the top of the hill it rests on.

Zovnek Castle

First mentioned in records in the 12th century, Zovnek Castle (or more accurately these days, its ruins) is one of the oldest castles in Slovenia and is accessed by a short hike from the road.

If you’re looking for an offbeat and beautiful spot to add to your list of the best places to visit in Slovenia, consider checking out Zovnek Castle!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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Home » Travel Guides » Slovenia » 15 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

15 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

Slovenia, perhaps rather unfairly, may not be everyone’s first pick when jetting off to an exciting new holiday destination. Instead, it is quietly but steadily becoming an up-and-coming corner of the world to visit, and first time travellers here won’t leave disappointed.

Revel in the lush valleys and trails that that wind through the Alps, enjoy the folk culture, or learn all about the local fine wine.

Join us as we take you on a tour through this stunning and hauntingly beautiful country and show you the 15 best places to visit in Slovenia .

1. Ljubljana

You might get a feeling that Llubljana is a special place when you wander around this dainty city and notice the myriad dragon statues that dot the streets. According to legend, Jason and the Argonauts slayed a similar monster in Llubljana in the days of old and, aside from the dragons, the city is packed full of gorgeous architecture that dates from the Baroque period.

As well as sculptures and art work, the city is also known for its little squares that line the part of the city called Old Town.

Watching over the city is Ljubljana Castle that is served by a funicular in case you don’t fancy the trek up, and you can also climb the clock tower and soak in the spectacular views over the city.

People will tell you that Slovenia looks like something out of a fairy tale, all brooding castles and verdant forests, and the picturesque town of Bled is no exception. The town features a glassy lake that is perfect for boating trips to the small island in the centre that has its own church, or if you fancy something more active you can choose to go kayaking or canoeing.

Cycling and hiking around the lake are also common pastimes as are visits to the Gothic Church that sits perched on a hill overlooking the town.

There are also famous skiing areas located just outside of Bled that can be accessed via chairlift that will take you to the summit of Straža Ski Slope and you can either choose to ski or even use a toboggan to get to the bottom.

3. Škocjan Caves

Visit the natural wonder of the Škocjan Caves and know that you are also in a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as the highest hall of caves in the whole of Europe.

The caves are located in a giant canyon that is positioned underground and you can cross from one side to the other via a bridge that allows you to understand the scale of this cave system.

Visitors to the caves can explore the beautiful columns of stalactites and stalagmites, and you won’t be alone when you visit as there are plenty of creatures that lurk in the darkness including more than fifteen species of bats!

Slovenia is not well known as a skiing destination although it really should be as it even snows in the summer months at higher altitudes.

Rising above the impossibly pretty Bohinj Lake you will find Vogel, where you can enjoy either downhill or cross country skiing trails, and there are different sections depending on your ability and fitness levels.

One of the best things about Slovenia is the fact that those who enjoy winter sports can indulge their passion from December through to May when crisp, powdery snow is pretty much guaranteed in the country.

If you feel like you might be in need of some rest and relaxation, or simply fancy a dip in a soothing warm bath, then the thermal waters of the town of Laško are not to be missed.

The waters are said to have healing and rejuvenating properties and locals and visitors alike have flocked to the area to bathe for centuries.

6. Rogatec Open-Air Museum

If you want a slightly different museum experience then head outside and visit Rogatec Open-Air Museum that is based around a farm.

The emphasis of the museum is to teach visitors about the local customs and folk traditions of Slovenia and there are arts and crafts activities and workshops that allow you to try your hand at bread baking, basket weaving, or even blacksmithing.

There is also a nearby manor that dates from the Renaissance period that visitors can tour to learn all about Slovenian heritage and traditions from the 18th Century onwards.

7. Postojna Cave

Located just outside the town of Postojna is the Postojna Cave, a karst cave that takes the form of haunting bubbles and frothing rocks thanks to the natural limestone dissolved by the waters of the Pivka River from which the karst topography is created.

The systems of caves are the second longest in Slovenia and highlights include a stalagmite named Brilliant which has also become the symbol of the cave.

Other things not to miss are the underground railway the transports visitors deep into the bowels of the cave, the Concert Hall (actually a large cave known for its spectacular acoustics), and the Spaghetti Hall, so called because of the shape of the tunnels within.

8. Logarska Dolina

Logarska Dolina is a valley in the Alps that lends itself to gentle rambles through forests that have stood for centuries. The valley actually dates from the Ice Age and sits upon the site of a glacier than created the basin that makes the area resemble a trough.

For the brave of heart this area is often used as the base camp for those wishing to scale the mighty peaks of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps. The valley falls into distinct areas, namely the lower, central, and upper parts, and in the lower and central areas visitors will find gorgeous meadows through which to meander.

In the upper part of the valley the forests begin in earnest, and the entire area has now become a regional park that ensures that visitors can marvel at the local plant and animal life in a pristine environment of almost untouched natural beauty.

9. Predjama Castle

For a truly awe inspiring experience, head to Predjama Castle. Firstly, this is a feat of engineering like no other as the castle is built in the mouth of a cave atop a cliff that rises to over 120 metres.

As if this wasn’t enough, the castle is said to be over 700 years old and was the former home of a Slovenian famous figure named Erazem Lueger, a knight and noble baron turned robber who famously stole from the elite and gave to the poor, also challenging the establishment in Slovenia as a kind of Robin Hood-like figure.

Reenactments are often displayed at the castle including medieval jousting held in July.

10. Triglav National Park

Taking its name from Slovenia’s highest peak, Triglav, this is the only national park in the country and is found in the north-western region of the Julian Alps.

The park is protected from extensive building work in order to preserve the natural beauty of the area, and the glacial Triglav Lakes as well as Mount Triglav are the bid draws here for visitors.

11. Soca Valley

Soca River that runs through the valley of the same name has to be seen to be believed, as it is actually a stunning shade of brilliant turquoise. The valley is spectacular in its own right and features a wide range of local flora and fauna for visitors to explore, but if you want to do something more adventurous then there are a plethora of outdoor activities available in this natural playground.

Rafting on the river is popular and a great way to take in the views as you sail by on the water or you can take to the skies with other extreme pursuits like paragliding.

If you want something a little calmer, then you can ride horses along mountain trails, or hike in the surrounding areas and stop at one of the many picturesque spots in the valley for a picnic. Cycling and mountain biking are also becoming more and more popular in Slovenia is you fancy tackling the mountain terrain.

12. Maribor

Having won the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture 2012, come to Maribor , Slovenia’s second largest city, to learn all about the local culture and in particular the wine. The city is famed for having some of the oldest vines in the world and for the superb wine that they create, and there are vineyards that stretch from the town of Maribor into the Pohorje forests. As you would expect there is also a Festival of Wine held annually, and Maribor is perfect for wine lovers looking to see how wine is made from vine to table.

13. Vršic Pass

Rising to over 1,500 meters, the Vršic Pass is famed as the highest mountain pass in the Julian Alps in Slovenia and has a road that stretches all the way along the pass before dipping down to the Soca Valley named Russian Road that dates from the early twentieth century.

The pass is well known as an ideal place for climbers who want to tackle one of the peaks in the surrounding areas, some of which rise to over 7,000 feet, as well as with hikers looking for shorter excursions.

If you want to stay in the area then there are a range of charming mountain lodges to choose from that will allow you to soak in the local culture.

Slovenia lies on the Adriatic Sea, and the town of Piran is one coastal attraction that you don’t want to miss.

The town features Venetian architecture and has winding cobbled streets that allow you to explore on foot at a leisurely pace as you breathe in the salty air.

You can also visit St George’s Church that dominates the skyline of the diminutive town from its vantage point on a hill and, should you make it up there, you can enjoy uninterrupted views all the way to the sea.

15. Blejski Vintgar

Known as one of the most popular attractions in Slovenia with locals, the Vintgar Gorge sits outside of the city of Bled near the village of Podhom.

The gorge is neatly bisected by the Radovna River, and there are bridges, paths, and viewing galleries that run the length of the area so that visitors can take in the spectacular views in a number of ways and explore the gorge to its full potential.

15 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia:

• Škocjan Caves
• Rogatec Open-Air Museum
• Postojna Cave
• Logarska Dolina
• Predjama Castle
• Triglav National Park
• Soca Valley
• Blejski Vintgar

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

Slovenia is a scenic country with a fantastic location in the heart of Europe. The nation is surrounded by the Eastern Alps, the Adriatic Sea, the Balkans, Italy , Croatia and Hungary , making it accessible from a range of European locations.

Planning a trip to Slovenia is an opportunity to see a variety of destinations that include vibrant cities, charming villages, snow-capped mountains and scenic beaches. On your next getaway, aim to see as many of the best places to visit in Slovenia as your schedule will allow.

Map of Slovenia

10. Maribor [SEE MAP]

After Ljubljana, Maribor is the largest city in Slovenia. It is located close to the Austrian border, and it is built up along the banks of the Drava River. Maribor is known for its wine growing industry that surrounds the city as well as its endless outdoor recreation opportunities.

In Maribor, you can see the Stara trta, or the oldest vine in the world, which dates back for more than 450 years. Keep the wine tour going with a trip to the popular Old Vine House and the enormous Vinag Wine Cellar. Don’t miss the major squares in Maribor, which include Slomškov Square, Main Square and Castle Square, all of which offer plenty of charm and historic architecture.

9. Koper [SEE MAP]

As one of the oldest coastal towns in Slovenia, and a major port, Koper is an integral part of the country’s infrastructure. This is yet another coastal spot that was once part of the Venetian Empire, and it formally went by the name Caprea. Later, it became part of Yugoslavia. Today, Koper is a lesser-known destination that nevertheless offers several enjoyable attractions.

You can tour Tito Square, the heart of the city, explore the refurbished Praetorian Palace or climb the bell tower of Campanile for spectacular views of the city below. There is a free public access beach by the Koper Marina that is ideal for swimming or just enjoying a picnic in the sunshine.

8. Kranjska Gora [SEE MAP]

Popular for winter sports enthusiasts is the destination of Kranjska Gora, located in the northwest of Slovenia. During the winter, Kranjska Gora is busy with visitors who ski and snowboard in the resort of Vitranc, taking advantage of the frequent snowfall and the steep trails.

Summer is just as appealing, however, thanks to challenging hikes and the opportunity to rent mountain bikes in the area. Even if you’re not into outdoor sports, Kranjska Gora is a scenic spot to unwind, relax in upscale hotels and dine at world-class restaurants appealing to travelers from around the globe.

7. Celje [SEE MAP]

One of the oldest cities in all of Slovenia is Celje, a small city perched on the banks of the Savinja River. The biggest attraction in the city is the enormous castle, which was erected in the 14th century and now looks down over the city from its hilltop location.

The best way to spend a day in Celje is to walk through Old Celje, the historic downtown where buildings date back to medieval times and you can stroll along cobblestone roads, dine at traditional eateries and admire the traditional architecture throughout the city.

6. Ptuj [SEE MAP]

On the banks of the Drava River is the city of Ptuj, a destination in Eastern Slovenia with an impressive collection of historic architecture. Ptuj is widely regarded as one of the oldest cities in the nation, and it has been important in the local culture since the Stone Age.

Today, some of the biggest attractions include the Orpheus Monument that dates back to Roman times, the collection of art and artifacts in the Ptuj Grad, or castle, the Town Hall that was constructed in 1907 and the 13th century Dominican Monastery that is now housed in the city’s largest museum. Also of note in Ptuj are the thermal springs perfect for relaxation and the annual carnival event called Kurentovanje.

5. Piran [SEE MAP]

On the tip of Southwestern Slovenia, and on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, is the resort hotspot called Piran. The destination is reminiscent of Italy, which makes sense since it was actually part of the Venetian Empire for more than five centuries.

Piran is small in size, but it is quaint, historic and scenic. History buffs might want to explore landmarks like the main square called Tartinijev trg, the oldest building in the city called the Venetian House and the Church of St. George. You can also walk right on top of the city walls or hop off one of the piers for a refreshing swim in the Adriatic.

4. Postojna [SEE MAP]

Postojna is a relatively small town in Southwest Slovenia, but it is a must-see destination for travelers drawn to unique attractions and natural scenery. Postojna is known for its extensive cave system, which boasts a staggering 20 km (13 miles) of chambers, hallways and galleries, some of which have ceilings nearly 50 meters (150 feet) high.

There is even a train tour that takes you through parts of the cave system, and then you can walk through some of the more interesting sections of the underground environment. North of Postojna is a medieval castle that is built into the side of a cave, creating a spectacular display of engineering that you have to see to believe.

3. Triglav National Park [SEE MAP]

If you want to get outdoors and explore some of the amazing natural scenery in Slovenia, then Triglav National Park is the ideal spot to visit. Most of the park is made up of the Julian Alps, with highlights in the region including the towering peak of Mount Triglav itself as well as the calm waters of Lake Bohinj.

For spectacular views, you can attempt to hike Mount Triglav, or you can take the easy route and ride on the Vogel Cable Car Ride. The adventurous can also cross the Vintgar Gorge on a wooden footbridge from the 19th century or climb a steep staircase to see the rushing waters of the Savica Waterfall. Rafting on the Soca River is also a popular activity.

2. Lake Bled [SEE MAP]

Serving as a gateway to the Triglav National park is Lake Bled, a scenic body of water surrounded by the Julian Alps. The emerald green lake isn’t large, and it is possible to walk the perimeter in a single afternoon. What makes the destination so appealing is the small island in the middle of the lake, which is home to a 17th century church.

You might also want to ride horses on the shores of the lake, rent a rowboat to explore the water or climb 15 minutes to reach Bled Castle, which dates back to the 17th century and boasts magnificent views over the lake below.

1. Ljubljana [SEE MAP]

One of the best places to visit in Slovenia is its capital, Ljubljana. Although Ljubljana is much smaller than most European capitals, it has a unique charm that makes it worth a visit. A major attraction in the city is Tromostovje, also known as the Triple Bridge, where three picturesque bridges span the river right next to one another.

You can also spot castles and medieval squares in the Old Town, see the original Roman city walls or relax in the popular Tivoli Park. As the capital, Ljubljana is also home to fantastic art and architecture museums, an impressive zoo, the Slovenian Philharmonic and the Slovene National Theater.

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The 11 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

Slovenia is a beautiful country located in the Balkans within central Europe. Famous for its snow-covered mountains, stunning lakes, and large ski resorts, this country has something to offer everyone. Although Slovenia is often overlooked as a holiday destination by many people, this small but mighty country packs a punch. There are plenty of incredible places to visit in Slovenia including the famous Lake Bled, the capital city of Ljubljana, and the vast Triglav National Park. Whether you prefer hiking in the mountains, exploring the cities, or simply relaxing, you will fit right in. This article is going to tell you everything you need to know, including the best places to see in Slovenia, what dishes to try, and how to get around.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

The 11 Best Places to See in Slovenia

Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital city and the largest city in the country. Although it’s one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, Ljubljana is very hip and environmentally friendly so is a popular choice. The city center is mostly car-free now making it easier to explore, and the public transport here is low emission.

Some of the most popular sights to see in the city include Prešeren Square, Ljubljana Castle, the Dragon Bridge, and Tivoli Park. You can also choose to take a cruise along the River in Ljubljana if you are looking for a relaxing activity.

#1 PLACE TO VISIT

Visit Lake Bled in Slovenia

Lake Bled is quite simply the most beautiful place in a stunning country and the top thing to see in Slovenia. If you see one thing in Slovenia, make it Lake Bled.

If you love architecture and culture, then make sure you don’t miss the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, the National Gallery of Slovenia, and Congress Square.

1. See Lake Bled in Slovenia

Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia and one of the most popular. With stunning blue waters, the beautiful church on the lake’s islet, and the Julian Alps situated behind, it isn’t surprising why.

Aside from simply admiring the beauty of the lake itself, there are plenty of other activities here. You can hire a rowing boat or hop on a pletna to take you across to Bled Island and visit the Assumption of Mary Church. Whilst exploring the church you can ring the wishing bell. The legend is that whoever rings the bell will have their wish come true.

Lake Bled – One of the Best Places to see in Slovenia

You can also take a stroll around the lake, visit Lake Bled Castle, or hike up to Mala Osojnica to get an amazing view of Lake Bled below. Whether you love nature, hiking, or culture, Lake Bled is one of the best places to see in Slovenia, as it offers a combination of all three. If you’re short on time and want to see this amazing lake, then you can take a tour of Lake Bled from Slovenia’s capital city. Bled and its surrounds are one of our hidden gems of Europe, you can read about the others here.

2. Visit Slovenia’s Bela Krajina

Bela Krajina is a beautiful region of Slovenia located in the southeast of the country on the border with Croatia. Famous for its beautiful scenery, wine, and tasty dishes, this region has a lot to offer visitors.

The largest towns in this region are Črnomelj, Metlika, and Semič, with the last two being a must-visit. Metlika and Semič are where the majority of the vineyards in this region are located which means two things; beautiful landscapes and plenty of delicious wine to taste.

Other popular sights within this region include the Bela Krajina Museum, the Krupa River’s spring, and Domača obrt Cvitkovič.

3. Triglav National Park in Slovenia

Triglav National Park is the only National Park in Slovenia and is named after the country’s highest peak – Triglav. The park covers an impressive area of 340 square miles (880 km2) and is home to the Julian Alps. It is without a doubt one of the best places to see in Slovenia and should be a must on your itinerary.

The National Park is a haven for backpackers and hikers, as there are so many amazing routes to choose from. The popular hiking routes within Triglav include the Pokljuka Trail, the Soča Trail, the Tolminka troughs, and the Triglavska Bistrica Trail which is found in Vrata Valley.

Triglav National Park is home to an array of flora and fauna including endemic plants and plenty of wildlife species. If you’re lucky during your hikes you might come across red deer, ibex, brown bears, lynx, or even golden eagles. You’ll want a decent pair of boots to hike in Slovenia, and you needn’t spend a fortune. Our guide to the best budget hiking boots is here .

4. Explore Maribor in Slovenia

Maribor is a beautiful city located on the Drava River and is surrounded by charming wineries and the green Pohorje forests. It is the second-largest city in Slovenia and offers a blend of incredible architecture, culture, and of course delicious wine. You can easily explore Maribor with an audio guide that steps you through all the major sites in this glorious city.

Between 1941 and 1945 the city was the site of a German prisoner-of-war camp, where British, Australian, and New Zealand troops were kept after being captured. Towards the end of the war in 1944, the largest-ever mass rescue of POWs in Europe took place here.

Today, however, the city is a much happier place. There are so many incredible sights to see including the Old Vine House, Glavni Trg which is the city’s square, Maribor Castle and Maribor Cathedral. You can also choose to head out on a cruise along the Drava River. With its history, culture, and interesting sites, Maribor is one of the best places to see in Slovenia.

5. Take a Train over the Solkan Bridge in Slovenia

Solkan Bridge runs over the beautiful Soča River in Western Slovenia. With a span of 85m, it’s the longest stone arch railroad bridge in the world.

The bridge was constructed in 1905, as part of the railway that connected the two European cities of Trieste and Vienna. As a connection between Italy and Austria, Solkan Bridge was vital but unfortunately, the bridge was demolished during WWI. However, it was later rebuilt following the original plans.

During the weekends, a beautiful steam engine runs along the railway and over the bridge offering stunning views of the Soča River. As you can imagine, the view from the carriage windows is pretty impressive, especially as Solkan Bridge sits at a height of 721ft. You can’t book Slovenian trains online, so you’ll need to go to the train station to buy tickets.

6. See Piran’s old town in Slovenia

The town of Piran is located along the Adriatic coast and is one of the most picturesque areas in all of Slovenia. It has a complicated history as, since 1281, Piran has been part of the Republic of Venice, part of Yugoslavia, and has been bounced around between Austria, France, and Italy. In 1991, that all changed when it finally became part of Slovenia for good.

Piran’s old town is one of the best-preserved historical towns in the Mediterranean, so make sure you spend your time getting lost in its charming and cobbled alleyways.

Other popular sights to see in Piran include the Church of St. George, the Belltower, and Tartine Square. Whilst exploring the town, make sure to head along the promenade and walk the town walls to get the best views.

7. Visit Lake Bohinj

Visiting Lake Bohinj is one of the best things to do in Slovenia, as the lake itself and its surroundings are incredibly scenic. It’s arguably as beautiful as Lake Bled, but without the crowds making it a more authentic and peaceful experience. The alpine lakes here in Slovenia are glorious – and you can visit both of them from Ljubljana in this easy-to-book and small group tour.

There is a walking trail that goes around the entire lake which is flat and easy to walk. As you head around the trail, you will find small secluded beaches where you can relax and take in the views.

Other popular things to do around Lake Bohinj include watersport activities, visiting St. John the Baptist Church, and taking the cable car up to Vogel to get a view of the Julian Alps.

With its blue-green waters, stunning backdrop, and peaceful atmosphere, Lake Bohinj is definitely one of the best places to see in Slovenia.

8. Explore the Cave Castle of Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle is listed in the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest cave castle. The castle is set halfway up a 400ft vertical cliff face and has been there for over 800 years. It is quite simply stunning and has to be seen to be believed. Get tickets for Predjama Cave Castle here.

What’s even more interesting, is that behind the castle runs a network of secret tunnels. This is how the knight Erazem of Prediama would set out on his expeditions, without being seen. These secret tunnels are probably one of the reasons why the castle ranks among the 10 most fascinating castles in the world.

Predjama Castle is one of the best places to visit in Slovenia due to its history, architecture, and its beautiful design. It’s located only a few kilometers from Postojna Cave, so the two sites can be visited within the same day. It’s very easy if you have your own transport to get to both, but getting here on public transport can be difficult and its a lot easier to take a tour from Lbujlana. This small group tour is a great way to see both Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave in one day.

9. See Slovenia’s oldest registered town, Ptuj

Ptuj is the oldest recorded town in Slovenia and is thought to have been inhabited since the stone age. By the 1st century, BC, Ptuj was controlled by Ancient Rome and had a population of around 40,000.

The most impressive site is Ptuj Castle which sits high on a hill overlooking the rest of the town. The castle was built in the 12th century, and its original purpose was to defend against the Hungarians. Today, it is one of the most popular Slovenia attractions and the museum here showcases many interesting artifacts. If you’re short on time this day trip from Ljubljana is the perfect way to explore Ptuj

Aside from visiting the castle, there are plenty of other fascinating sites in Ptuj. Some of the most popular attractions include the town tower, the Dominican Monastery, the Minorite Monastery, and the Orpheus Monument.

10. Visit the underground river canyons of the Škocjan Caves

Škocjan Caves are situated in southwest Slovenia and are one of the world’s largest known underground river canyons. With over 6km of underground passages and a total depth of around 220m, these caves are pretty impressive. The caves are easy to visit from the capital, and you’ll want to allow about 2 hours to explore them. Try this guided tour for a great way of seeing a lot of the country AND the UNESCO world heritage caves at the same time.

The site was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 and is considered to be one of the most important caves in the world. It represents significant underground phenomena within the Kars Plateau and has a variety of wildlife that live within, including endemic insects.

The river that runs through these caves is called the Reka River and it makes the scenery even more beautiful. Škocjan Caves are without a doubt one of the best places to see in Slovenia and are a must-visit during your trip.

11. Hike the glorious Vintgar Gorge in Slovenia

Vintgar Gorge is located in Triglav National Park and was carved by the Radovna River. At 1.6km long with crystal clear waters that are emerald-blue in color, this place is pretty magical.

There is a boardwalk that runs along the river, meaning you can get nice and close for beautiful views. For short periods of time, you are even completely suspended over the river which is thrilling and gives you the perfect opportunity to enjoy the incredible views. Visit Vintgar from Lake Bled, by e-bike -it’s a really easy way to get there and a perfect day out!

The boardwalk is currently operating on a one-way system (introduced during the pandemic), and after you reach the end you will head back to the car park via another trail. The months of July and August are the peak season, so if you head to the gorge during this time be prepared to share the boardwalk with a lot of people. It’s best to go early in the morning and seeing the gorge with a little mist as the sun burns it off is glorious.

Travel Essentials for Slovenia

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• Arriving by air? Book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
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• Book buses and transport in Slovenia here.
• Book  accommodation in Slovenia with Booking

Getting to Slovenia

Slovenia has three international airports which are located in Ljubljana, Maribor, and Portoroz. However, generally, if you are flying into the country you will land at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, which is located about 26km from the capital of Ljubljana. The best way to get from the airport to the capital is by airport bus which departs every hour.

Traveling overland into Slovenia is incredibly popular, with the capital’s train station has good connections. It connects Ljubljana with other countries such as Austria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Serbia, and Switzerland. This makes it a great transport hub, whilst traveling through Europe. It’s also possible to catch a bus into Slovenia from neighboring European countries.

You can check overland routes into and around Slovenia with Bookaway – see what buses you can book here.

Getting Around Slovenia

Slovenia doesn’t have any domestic flights within the country, so the best way to get around is by public transport or to hire a car.

One of the best ways to get around is by bus, as the network is reliable and covers a much wider range of destinations than the train. The cities of Ljubljana, Maribor, and Koper have large bus stations, with buses that go to an array of places. You can check bus routes in Slovenia here.

Although traveling by train in Slovenia is often cheaper, the journeys tend to be slower and the amount of destinations available isn’t as extensive.

Slovenia’s roads are pretty quiet, so hiring a car is another great way to see the country. We’ve had two Slovenia road trips and had no problems at all with traffic or signage. This is especially helpful when wanting to reach the more rural and mountainous areas of the country. Need to rent a car in Slovenia? Get prices for Slovenian rental cars here.

When exploring cities and traveling shorter routes, cycling is a popular option.

The best food dishes to try in Slovenia

Slovenia has plenty of authentic dishes to sample, so here are a few of the most popular ones:

Štruklji – Štruklji are rolled dumplings that are often made with strudel dough. The fillings vary by region and can include beans, eggs, salami, sausages, vegetables, or a sweet variation such as cottage cheese and apples.

Carniolan Sausage (Krajnska Klobasa) – A sausage made from quality pork, bacon, garlic, salt, and pepper. The sausages are then smoked to make them even tastier.

Bled cream cake – This cake is widely available around Lake Bled. It is a cream slice made of dough and then packed with a layer of custard and cream.

You can explore the food of Slovenia easily and check off all these and more in this super guided food tour of Lblujana

The Weather in Slovenia

The summer season in Slovenia is known to be warm, whilst the winter season is very cold with a lot of snow.

The warmest month to visit Slovenia is generally July, where the average high temperature is 26°C. The coldest month to visit is January with an average low temperature of -3°C.

The summer season in Slovenia lasts from June to September, with the cold season lasting from November to March. We visited in both September and October and although we had one washout day in September while in Lbjuljana, most days we were comfortable wearing fleeces. If you’re going to be visiting Slovenia overland, then check out our packing list for overlanding here .

The best time to visit Slovenia

The months of July and August are by far the most popular times to visit Slovenia, and accommodation fills up fast during this time. The temperatures are very warm, but due to the increase in popularity hotels tend to increase their prices.

If you don’t mind the weather being a little bit cooler, early June and September are great months to visit. The crowds are thinner, the prices are cheaper and the weather is still pleasant.

Is Slovenia Safe to Visit?

Slovenia is thought of as the ‘safest country in Eastern Europe’ and is considered to be very safe for tourists. Violent crime is very rare throughout the country. The only thing to be mindful of in the popular tourist hotspots is petty crime like pickpocketing and scams.

If you are planning to hire a car, it’s also important to note that some areas of Slovenia have issues with car break-ins and theft. Make sure to park your car somewhere secure, or where there is plenty of light and people around.

We always also travel with a portable travel safe and lock away our valuables in the trunk/boot of the car when we’re leaving the car for a day hike and also in our accommodation if we’re staying overnight. Our guide to portable travel safes including how we use them is here.

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Travel Insurance for Slovenia

Although Slovenia is a very safe country, it always pays to cover yourself in case the unexpected happens (even more so now in these strange times). You can get a free travel insurance quote here.

Accommodation in Slovenia

There are plenty of beautiful accommodation options in Slovenia. Here are some choices for two of the major cities in the country:

Ljubljana Accomodation

• Budget Ljubljana accommodation: Hostel Railway (two beds in a mixed dormitory room), you can check rates for this great Ljubljana hostel here
• Mid-budget Ljubljana accommodation: ATIK Rooms (a double room with a shared bathroom) – reserve a room here.
• Luxury Ljubljana accommodation: Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Ljubljana (a double room with breakfast included) > there’s more on this fab hotel in Ljubljana here

Maribor Accommodation

• Budget Maribor accommodation: Anna House (a double or twin room with a shared bathroom) – this hotel in Maribor gets amazing reviews, reserve a room here
• Mid-budget Maribor accommodation: Romantic Apartments Sweet Baci (an apartment with a terrace) – dates book out quickly at this fab apartment, check rates here.
• Luxury Maribor accommodation: Hotel City Maribor (a standard double room with breakfast included) – reserve a room here.

Final Words on the Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

So is Slovenia worth visiting? The answer is definitely yes! Slovenia is a beautiful country full of natural wonders, beautiful architecture, and authentic experiences. It’s easily accessible from other European countries either by train, bus, or plane. Slovenia is easy to travel around with its extensive bus network. Whether you want to hike the Julian Alps, relax at Lake Bled or sunbathe on the Adriatic, you will find something to your taste. With so many incredible places to visit in Slovenia, this country is a must for any bucket list.

Stock images in this article are courtesy Deposit Photos.

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The 6 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

Slovenia may not be on your radar as a must-visit country in Europe. But it should be!

The country is considerably cheaper and less touristy than its neighbors and has been slowly gaining popularity with tourists from around the globe. With a large national park to the north, views of the majestic Alps overhead, over 11,000 karst caves, a beautiful coastline, and the friendliest people – it’s impossible not to fall in love with this spectacular country.

Check out our list of the 6 best places to visit in Slovenia to help you plan your upcoming trip!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 6 Best Things to Do in Slovenia

1. experience the charming capital city of ljubljana.

Ljubljana (pronounced “lube-li-ana”) is the largest city in Slovenia and the capital.  It is a compact, clean, and pedestrian-friendly city filled with well-preserved Baroque period architecture, cute cafes, and lively bars.

Best Things to do in Ljubljana

• Tivoli Park  – stretches right into the center of the city and is Ljubljana’s largest and loveliest park.
• Tromostovje (aka “triple bridge”) – three pedestrian bridges cross the river within feet of each other in this area of the Old Town and it’s worth a stop for a photoshoot.
• Peruse the Central Market for locally made artisan crafts and yummy local snacks!
• Ljubljanski Grad (Ljubljana Castle)  – is a beautifully restored masterpiece that looms above the city and can be seen from the square below. It’s a short (but very steep) walk from the old city or you can opt for the funicular railway for a small fee. You can see most of the castle for free but if you want to see any of the exhibits or venture to the top of the clock tower, you’ll need to buy a ticket.
• Snap a selfie on the famous Dragon Bridge  or add a love lock to the Butcher’s Bridge .

What to Eat and Drink in Ljubljana

• Be sure to check out Pop’s Place  for the best selection of draft and bottled craft beer in town, burgers that are melt-in-your-mouth-delicious, and giant salads.
• Union Pivnica  is great for a lively atmosphere, homemade goulash, and a refreshing draft beer .
• For slightly overpriced drinks but with an amazing view of the city,  head to  Skyscraper .
• There is no shortage of dessert options in Ljubljana, but for our favorite ice cream check out Vigò (and order their namesake flavor). Don’t forget to get the white chocolate topping!
• For delicious pub fare including giant salads try Fany & Mary on the main promenade.
• In the mood for a supremely crafted bespoke cocktail? Then Kolibri Cocktail Bar is a must-visit!

2. Visit Slovenia’s Crown Jewel: Lake Bled

Bled is arguably the crown jewel of Slovenia and one of the most picture-perfect little lake towns in all of Europe. Located near the eastern end of the National Park, it’s a perfect spot to spend days relaxing after all of your adventurous hiking in the park.

You’ll find no shortage of things to do in Lake Bled . From rowing across the lake to hiking through nearby Vintgar Gorge, Lake Bled is full of outdoor activities and is best visited during the warm summer months. You absolutely cannot have a holiday in Slovenia without visiting this gem!

Best Things to do in Lake Bled

• One of the best things to do in Lake Bled is to take a boat ride out to Blejski Otok, the picturesque church on the island in the middle of the lake. Or better yet, rent a boat and row yourself!
• Have an afternoon stroll around the lake to view its beauty from all angles. It’s five kilometers to complete the loop and there are several spots to stop for a glass of wine or a snack along the way.
• Hike up to the castle as well for amazing views of the town. (Hint – if you book a reservation at the restaurant in the castle your entrance fee will be waved!)

What to Eat and Drink in Bled

• For a yummy pizza lunch, lovely outdoor seating, and views of Lake Bled , check out  Kult Klub Bled .
• For the best cream cake in all of Bled be sure to try the small, unassuming  Slascicarna Smon !
• Gostilna In Pizzerija (Hostel Pr’ Pristavc)  is about 25 minutes outside of Bled but is by far the best restaurant in the area. All in all, we ate here four times (we even dined here twice on the same day!) Our favorites were the pesto pasta, the venison stew, and the mulled wine!

Take a Day Trip

• Lake Bohinj – is the quainter, quieter neighbor to Bled. It’s just a 30-minute drive from Bled and boasts a beautiful lake and plenty of restaurants and accommodations if you want to escape the Bled crowds. Stop at  Strandcafe Kramar  for a glass of wine and epic views of the lake!
• Vintgar Gorge – just a 15-minute drive from Bled is a stunning gorge with a short and easily accessible hike right on the river. It gets busy in the middle of the day so make the trip early in the day or around 5 pm to avoid the tour buses.

3. Check out Slovenia’s Coastal Town of Piran

Slovenia has a small bit of coastline with views of Italy from across the Adriatic. What really makes the coast of Slovenia special are the charming port towns and lovely locals. There are several coastal towns to choose from or you can devote your time to our favorite – Piran . While it lacks sandy beaches, it makes up for it in Venetian-style alleyways, gorgeous views of the sea, castle walls, and a pristine central square. You’ll love getting lost in the maze of alleyways of this darling, quaint town.

Best Things to do in Piran

• Stroll around the waterfront at sunrise or sunset.
• Climb the city walls and soak in gorgeous views of the sea from the clock tower.
• Go for a dip in the clear water and then lounge on the rocks lining the boardwalk.

What to Eat and Drink in Piran

• For a  fun setting for a morning coffee or afternoon beer, check out  80s Caffe Bar . They rock out to popular American 80’s jams all day!
• With comfortable seats, reasonable prices, and delightful muesli with fresh yogurt, you can’t beat Mestna Kavarna for an early morning snack.
• A reservation for all restaurants in Piran is recommended during the busy season as they are all relatively small and get packed. Gostilna Park is no exception because the food and the setting are absolutely divine! Try the Morski Poker for a delicious and huge selection of seafood (the stuffed calamari is unreal) and freshly baked garlic bread. Their house white wine is the most delicious in town!
• Again, a reservation is recommended for  Pri Mari – a  quaint little restaurant with excellent cuisine . Try the mussels in white wine sauce and their unique homemade gnocchi.

4. Hike in Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park sits in the Northwest corner of the country encompassing Slovenia’s portion of the Julian Alps . It is Slovenia’s only national park, but with a park as massive and stunning as this, you really only need one!

Start with Tolmin Gorge (see our list of hikes below) and drive the complete perimeter of the park clockwise, stopping in the charming towns along the way.

Be Sure to Stop in Bovec

Bovec is a little town along your route that is a hub for a variety of outdoor adventures in the park. It offers helpful tourist information, outdoor apparel shops, delicious restaurants, and local craft beer all with a gorgeous mountainous backdrop!

• Check out Thirsty River Brewing which has a fantastic selection of local draft beers with a fun outdoor atmosphere that’s perfect for people watching!
• Letni Vrt  is serving up a  wide selection of delicious pizzas and a few dishes that are unique to the region.

Best Hikes Along Your Drive

There are countless epic hikes in the park but these 4 are not-to-be-missed!

• Tolmin Gorge – the views of the river all along the Tolmin Gorge hike are amazing; the clear blue water will have you dying to take a dip (but beware, it’s freezing!). There are a variety of bridges to cross and caves to explore as well as 500 stairs to ascend (or descend depending on the direction you head) which keeps this hike interesting for the entire three kilometers!
• Slap Boka (Boka Waterfall) – this fairly short and easy hike meanders through a lush forest to a lookout where you can see one of the tallest waterfalls in Slovenia from afar. Be sure to read the placard, this waterfall has an interesting story!
• Kozjak Waterfall (Slap Kozjak) – a 2.5-mile, the fairly flat hike follows the Soča River to the 50′ Kozjak Waterfall inside of an amazing natural limestone amphitheater. The entire hike is gorgeous but the waterfall at the end is certainly the highlight!
• Peričnik Waterfall (Slap Peričnik) – a short but steep hike will lead you to this beautiful waterfall but the real attraction is the pathway that leads behind the falls. The view of the surrounding mountains from behind the waterfall is truly breathtaking! Don’t forget a jacket or an umbrella – it’s wet back there!

5. Sleep in a Cozy Mountain Cabin in Logar Valley

Logarska Dolina is a stunning valley located in Northern Slovenia where you’ll find lovely hikes and secluded mountain cabins. And you won’t find a lot of other tourists.

You can choose to pamper yourself at the   Hotel Plesnik Logarska Dolina  which offers a variety of spa packages with a gorgeous waterfall backdrop. Or sleep in a quaint rustic cabin high in the mountains overlooking the valley at Guesthouse Planinski Dom Majerhold which is run by the sweetest family (they also offer delicious home-cooked meals!). If you visit in the summertime they have a barrel tub for a soak with epic mountain views!

6. Go Caving

The vast cave network in Slovenia is especially impressive given the country’s relatively small size. There are over 11,000 karst caves in the area but these three are by far the most visited:

• Postojna Cave – nicknamed “the Queen of Caves”, this is the most popular cave in all of Slovenia. You’ll venture deep underground via a train ride. From there, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the unusual formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. This cave is also home to the “human fish” .
• Predjama Castle – just nine kilometers from Postojna Cave, this is the largest cave castle in the world!
• Škocjan Caves – the deepest and largest underground canyon in the world! Get lost in the maze of underground galleries in this unique and special place!

That’s it – 6 of the best places to visit in Slovenia. We hope you’ll love Slovenia as much as we did!

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About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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1 thought on “the 6 best places to visit in slovenia”.

This is SUPER helpful! Now I just gotta figure out the car rental logistics and if I can keep it with me from Slovenia thru Croatia down to Mostar!

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• Full Trip Itineraries
• Weekend Itineraries

A Perfect Northern Croatia Road Trip Itinerary

Croatia’s really having a moment right now, with all sorts of travelers flocking to the turquoise beaches and Game of Thrones-esque walls of Dubrovnik and the islands.  And with the scenery, culture, and affordability, it’s easy to see why.  But northern Croatia is still flying under the radar as an amazing travel destination.

In particular, the Istrian Peninsula in northern Croatia has a crazy insane amount to add to any itinerary, and it’s super compact and centrally-located.

With fragrant truffles, olive oil, medieval hill towns, colorful coastal villages, and an unmistakable Italian flair, a couple days spent in Istria are well worth your time.  Add to that the beautiful turquoise waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park and possibly a day in Zagreb, and you’ve got a winner.

Creating your northern Croatia itinerary

As I mentioned above, northern Croatia is really underrated, and as such it’s not nearly as crowded during the spring and summer months.  It makes a great alternative to Tuscany (think: hill towns, truffles, olive oil, and wine), has great proximity to lots of other areas, and is much more affordable.

Then you’ve got the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park waterfalls, plus interesting Balkan wars history.  And it’s super centrally-located, so you can easily pair it with any number of other destinations.

It’s also super flexible depending on the time you have and how you want to arrange it.  Here’s a rough guide, but it could be 5 days, a week, or two weeks depending on how long you have.

• Arrival:   a lot of options (I’ve explained a couple below), but flying into Zagreb is one of the easiest
• 1-2 days:   explore the hill towns (and coastal towns) of Istria by car
• 1 day:  Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Consider a day in Zagreb if that appeals to you

From here , you could spend a few days in the nearby Croatian islands, go on to Slovenia (or do it in reverse), or decide to head over to Italy, down to southern Croatia, or maybe hop to one of the other Balkan countries (Montenegro and Serbia are two that look amazing).  An example of how we did Slovenia:

• 1 day:  Ljubljana
• 1-2 days:  Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, Triglav National Park, Vintgar Gorge
• 1 day:  Piran, wineries
• 1 day:   Julian Alps

For renting a car, I always search in a few different places and compare both the prices and specific offerings/benefits.  My go-to’s are  DiscoverCars ,  RentalCars.com , and  AutoEurope as well.  We used Sixt on this trip (this is a 15% off link if you book directly, but compare their prices on the sites above as well), who I’ve used on several international (and a couple domestic) trips.  I’ve always been super happy with them on international trips.

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One of the easiest itinerary pairings is a few days in Slovenia, which gives you gorgeous mountain scenery and turquoise lakes, vibrant Ljubljana, wine, and charming pastel seaside Piran.  Here’s a whole post detailing the Slovenia portion of our itinerary.

I’ll give you two different sample itineraries that I’ve done, to give you an example of how you can customize this for yourself.

Itinerary 1 – Tacking 3-4 days in Croatia onto an Italy trip

My friends and I had been in Grosseto, Italy, for 8 days at a church holy day conference, so we arranged to meet up with our other friend (who had just flown in) in Florence.

• There isn’t a train option straight from Italy to the Istrian peninsula, which is why the bus is necessary
• Used Rovinj as our base, spent a day driving around the hill towns of Istria
• Spent 1 day driving to Plitvice Lakes National Park and exploring, then on to Zagreb
• I headed home after this, but my friend flew to Dubrovnik, so this would be an option, or you could take the train from Zagreb to Ljubljana and spend time in Slovenia

Itinerary 2 – Croatia, Slovenia, and some northern Italy

A year later, I took my parents on a similar trip, with a few tweaks and the addition of Slovenia.  While this looks like a lot, it was only about an 8-9 day trip.

• Flew into Zagreb, got rental car, spent a few hours exploring the city, then stayed near Plitvice Lakes overnight
• Saw Plitvice Lakes National Park in the morning, drove to Rovinj for the night
• Spent morning/early afternoon driving around the hill towns of Istria, then drove to Ljubljana in the afternoon
• Spent some time in Ljubljana
• 1 day in adorable Piran and doing winery visits
• 1 day exploring Triglav National Park, Vintgar Gorge, Lake Bled, and Lake Bohinj
• 1 day driving through the Julian Alps
• Our friend drove us to Trieste, where we took the train to Venice
• 1 day in Venice, then train to Cinque Terre
• 1 day in Cinque Terre, then flew out of Milan

So now that I’ve given you an idea of ways you can structure your itinerary, it’s time to dig into *where* you’re going.

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Rovinj:  the perfect base in Istria

My pictures (and the overcast skies) don’t do Rovinj justice, though the sunset pic above starts to.  Rovinj is so cute and charming—the perfect size for a base since it’s small enough to get around easily but big enough to have everything you need.

I’ve used it as a base twice and both times found a cute Airbnb with a great view, walked pretty much everywhere, and watched the sunset over the marina.

I’ve gone into detail about Rovinj’s charms in a separate post, but whether you just visit or stay the night, it’s a must.  If you’re staying somewhere else, you can just add Rovinj onto your hill town driving itinerary instead.

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Drive around through the hill towns of Istria

You can easily spend a few days exploring every nook and cranny of Istria if you want, but each time I’ve visited I spent just a day driving to several of the towns, and this is a great way to see a ton in a limited time.

This post on the hill towns  talks through which towns are skippable and which ones were my fave, as well as some inside tips for how to structure your driving route and where to find an amazing truffle risotto and some viewpoints ( Motovun is possibly my favorite, so I devoted a whole post to it).

Download my free e-book on how to plan awesome trips, step-by-step:  Epic Trip Planning 101

Spend a day at Plitvice Lakes National Park

This gets down a bit more into middle rather than truly northern Croatia, but this place is MAGICAL!!

Before I planned my first trip to Croatia, I had literally never heard of Plitvice (pleet-vee-chay), and while I’ve seen it get more attention in the travel community over the last few years, it’s still not massively well-known.  My mom still raves about this place, it’s one of her favorite things we’ve done in all our travels together.

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The park is famous for its 16 lakes arranged in cascades with natural travertine dams and the waterfalls that creates, as well as the intensely turquoise color of the water.

The water is part of a fascinating ecosystem and constantly shifts from aqua to cerulean to green depending on whether it’s sunny or cloudy, and you can get up close and personal with the waterfalls in a way I’ve never seen in other parks.  The wooden walkways wind under, over, and through the lakes and waterfalls, and the effect is stunning.

I’ve written a whole post rhapsodizing about Plitvice , which I *don’t* recommend if you hate waterfall pictures, but otherwise endorse wholeheartedly.  You can see opening dates, times, and costs here .

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There was one fairly notable thing about one of my trips to Plitvice that still is one of my favorite travel stories.  My two friends and I were staying in Rovinj, so left fairly early in the morning to drive to Plitvice (planning to go on to Zagreb for the night).

We stopped at a gas station and I decided to take the map in and ask the guy at the counter if we were planning on the right route (this was 2012 so didn’t have Google Maps access easily).  He told us to go a different route than we’d planned, so we set out.

I don’t know if we took a wrong turn or what, but the road kept getting more and more narrow and bumpy, til we were eventually on a single-track, rutted-out (muddy and puddled) dirt path through the forest.  We weren’t sure what to do at this point, so decided the only way out was through.  We kept driving for about another hour, and kept seeing these signs.

At first we thought they were more of a “private, keep out” thing, and eventually realized that they were saying that this was an active landmine area.  There wasn’t much we could do at that point (and our assumption was that the road itself was probably fine), but we were tired and stressed and started getting giggly and loopy as time went on.

Finally we made it out and found a way back to the main road (which got us to Plitvice much later than planned, and we had to really rush through the park).  But one of the funniest parts was that we kind of gunned it through a giant puddle at the end of the dirt track to get back to pavement, and screeched to a stop and just kind of sat for a minute and looked at each other.

And then Brek (who had been driving like a champ the whole time) goes, “OH!  *That* kind of mine…!!!”  He thought that we meant like…copper mines or something! 😛  It was hysterical and we’ve never let him live it down.

We felt we’d earned our beers in Zagreb that night…

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Take a moment to soak in the recent wartime history

One of the things that really fascinated me about spending time in Croatia was how fresh and real the scars of recent war were.  In many ways you wouldn’t know, as it’s a modern and thriving country.

But about halfway between Zagreb and Plitvice, my parents and I drove through towns like Karlovac and Turanj and saw a stark reminder of a conflict that’s all too fresh in Croatia’s memory.  It really stuck with us, and on our drive back up to Istria we made time to stop and explore Turanj a bit.

I wasn’t very familiar with the Croatian War of Independence, part of the overall Yugoslavian breakup/Balkan wars that happened in the early 1990s.  I was just a kid, so didn’t really retain much of that.

I’ve written a whole post on experiencing this part of the country, including this open-air museum about the war .  It’s a quick stop, you can literally just pull off the road and spend five minutes or a half hour wandering around and learning about what happened.

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One of the things that really blew my mind was listening to Croatians talk about their experience.  Of having neighbor turn on neighbor, tanks rolling up the street and shooting at houses, of atrocities committed daily—not by an outside invading force, but by the people they were used to sharing the grocery store aisle with.

Those of us in the U.S. haven’t ever experienced active war on our country’s land in really over a century, so this is incredibly hard to comprehend.  I highly recommend taking a little bit of time in northern Croatia to learn more about its recent political history.

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Spend a bit of time in Zagreb

I can’t tell you tons about Zagreb, since we didn’t spend a lot of time there on either trip.  But it’s an easy add to your itinerary, even just for a few hours.  One of the times I flew into Zagreb, and the other I flew out of it.  So when my parents and I visited, we flew into Zagreb, got the rental car, drove into the city and grabbed lunch, walked around for a bit, then hit the road toward Plitvice for the night.

The other time, we did a day trip to Plitvice and then drove to Zagreb to catch our flight in the morning (with a trip to the beer garden to calm our nerves after the landmine road trip).  It’s a fun, historic, thriving city, and worth a half-day of your time if it fits neatly into your trip.

And now that I’ve hopefully convinced you that northern Croatia is worth your time, I highly suggest combining it with a few days in Slovenia!  I’ve written a separate post talking about why Slovenia should be on your bucket list and outlining what to put on your itinerary, but here are a few pictures to whet your appetite…

Hopefully I’ve given you a taste of northern Croatia’s awesomeness…hit me up with any questions while you’re in your own trip planning process!

Other regional roadtrip itineraries to consider:

• What To Do In Portugal’s Stunning Douro Valley
• A Super Detailed Road Trip Guide for Sao Miguel Island (Azores)
• A Road Trip Along Ireland’s Southern Coast: Things To Do In County Cork & Waterford
• An Awesome Long Weekend Itinerary in Portland and Willamette Valley
• Why Slovenia Should Be On Your Bucket List:  A 4-Day Itinerary
• A Stunning 2 Days on Scotland’s Isle of Skye

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Comments (2)

Erika K. Tobiassen

July 14, 2020 at 8:41 pm

So I just found this blog, and it is SO WEIRD… I. 2018, my fiancee and I drove that same exact road ro Plitvice! Scariest ride of my life. The road was in much worse condition, with huge rocks, potholes, and we had no cell service and the gps was useless. I was driving, focused on not bottoming out our transmission. We knew right away what kinds of mines, and there was mine caution tape Long the sides of the road. When we finally got to the paved road, we stopped, got out, and laid down on the ground to collect ourselves. It was funny and nerve-wracking all at once. I am so delighted to see we were not alone in this experience!

July 14, 2020 at 9:34 pm

That’s CRAZY! Nerve-wracking is right…we had the hysterical giggles by the end!

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13 BEST Things to Do in Ljubljana, Slovenia

L jubljana is one of the most delightfully surprising cities we’ve ever visited and there are a lot of memorable things to do in Ljubljana that arguably make the city hard not to love.

The small capital of the Balkan country of Slovenia is teeming with beautiful architecture, picturesque bridges, enchanting legends, and complicated history.

Easy to explore on foot, the city boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a progressive and commendable attitude on environmental sustainability. 

So, if you are planning a trip to Ljubljana Slovenia this Ljubljana travel guide covers all you need to know about the Slovenian capital and the best things to do in Ljubljana.

About Ljubljana Slovenia 

The capital and largest city in Slovenia, Ljubljana, pronounced LOO-BLEE-AH-NUH, is affectionately known as the City of Dragons.

The dragon is, in fact, the city’s official symbol, representing power, courage, and greatness. You’ll find dragons in souvenir shops throughout the city, and gracing one of Ljubljana’s most famous bridges.

There are several tales as to how the dragon became synonymous with Ljubljana.

Legends and Slovenian folklore recount stories of Jason, a Greek mythology hero, who fought and slayed a dragon in the marshland surrounding Ljubljana. But overtime, the dragon has evolved from a monster who needed to be defeated to a benevolent and powerful protector of the city.  

Where is Ljubljana?

Ljubljana is located in the center of Slovenia. The Balkan country shares a border with Austria to its north, Italy to its west, Croatia to its south, and Hungary to the east.

The small country is big on scenery. In fact, mountains and forest cover approximately 7,827 square miles. And while many people journey to the country just to see all the picturesque destinations in Slovenia , like Lake Bled and Vintgar Gorge , Ljubljana is also worth visiting.

How to get to Ljubljana

Getting to Ljubljana, at least from the United States, requires going through a couple of airports or train stations.

There are direct flights from Amsterdam , London , Paris , and approximately 20 airports around the world, all of which are in Europe or the Middle East.

You can also get to Ljubljana by train. There are even sleeper trains available from cities like Munich or Zurich. Additionally, it is only a 2 hour car ride from Zagreb, the Croatian capital and one of the best places to visit in Croatia .

A brief history of Ljubljana, Slovenia

The region where Ljubljana is located has been inhabited for thousands of years, but Ljubljana wasn’t the capital until 1991. In fact, Slovenia wasn’t a country until that year.

The country’s history is complicated and a bit confusing.

It was formerly part of the now dissolved country of Yugoslavia . The state of Slovenia declared independence in 1991 and Ljubljana was established as the capital.

Where to stay in Ljubljana Slovenia 

To maximize your time in Ljubljana, you’ll want to stay near the Old Town area. We stayed at Hotel Emonec , a budget-friendly hotel located a block away from Prešeren Square and the famous Triple Bridge.

The accommodations were nice, large enough for families, and included complimentary breakfast, which is a definite perk when trying to save money. 

• Mid-range accommodations in Ljubljana: Hotel Emonec
• Luxury accommodations in Ljubljana: Grand Hotel Union Eurostars 

Fun Things to Do in Ljubljana Slovenia 

Now that we’ve covered a little bit about Ljubljana and where to stay during your trip, let’s jump into the coolest things to do in Ljubljana – the lovely Slovenian capital.

Visit Preseren Square

Preseren Square is the heart of Ljubljana. A meeting point for events, festivals, and many walking tours, this central square is one of the best places to visit in Ljubljana.

On the south end, you’ll find the lovely Triple Bridge and to the north, the vibrant, coral facade of the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation.

At the east side of the pedestrian-only square towers the Preseren Monument, a statue dedicated to Slovenia’s national poet, France Preseren .

On nice days, you’ll find countless people sitting at the base of the monument or wandering through the lively square, admiring the river views and enjoying the energy of the crowds. 

Walk through the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation 

Built in the late 1600s, the Franciscan Church of Annunciation is the focal point in Preseren Square.

The Baroque-style church features a single nave with a fresco ceiling and a coral façade that stands out among other surrounding buildings. The church is free to enter.

The interior chapel is small enough that it only takes about 5-10 minutes to walk through. Give yourself plenty of time to study the altar, frescoes, and the statues found in the side chapels. 

Cross over Ljubljana’s famous bridges

Some of the main things Ljubljana is famous for are its many beautiful bridges. And there are a few notable ones you’ll want to see and even cross while exploring Ljubljana.

Triple Bridge 

A favorite bridge for many visitors to Ljubljana, the Triple Bridge is three bridges in one! It’s a choose-your-own-adventure bridge, if you will.

The three bridges, constructed adjacent to each other, cross the Ljubljanica River connecting Preseren Square with the Medieval Old Town area. 

The middle bridge was first built in 1842, and in order to prevent a traffic bottleneck, Slovenia’s famed architect Jože Plečnik designed the two smaller, pedestrian side bridges that fan out at a slight angle. 

When the area became a pedestrian-only zone in 2007, all three bridges – including the larger center bridge, became pedestrian-only bridges. 

Dragon Bridge

Of course, the City of Dragons would have a bridge adorned with it’s official mascot. And the Dragon Bridge in Ljubljana is one of the most famous bridges in the city.

Located just north of the Central Market, large dragon statues marking the bridge’s corners are the main draw for visitors. However, take time to examine the bridge as you cross, because you’ll find 16 smaller dragons gracing the center of this road bridge, as well. 

The bridge, which opened in 1901, was one of Europe’s first reinforced concrete bridges, and the first bridge in Slovenia to be paved with asphalt for vehicles. 

The Butcher’s Bridge

Perhaps better known as the Love Lock Bridge, the Butcher’s Bridge isn’t necessarily famous for its unique design, but for the thousands of padlocks that have been symbolically locked onto the bridge by lovebirds who want to lock their love together forever and toss away the key.

A relatively new bridge, the Butcher’s Bridge was built in 2010. 

Originally envisioned by architect Jože Plečnik in the 1930s but not constructed for nearly a century, the bridge is one of the more unique Ljubljana bridges.

A series of peculiar mythology sculptures and even some fairly grotesque sculptures span the center, creating a stark contrast from the displays of love left on the steel cable sides of the bridge.

While the center of the bridge is concrete, the walkway near the sides is thick glass, so you can see the river beneath your feet as you walk across.

Cobbler’s Bridge

Another beautiful Ljubljana bridge designed by architect Jože Plečnik, Cobbler’s Bridge was constructed in the early 1930s, and has a very Romanesque appearance.

With cylinder Corinthian columns topped with stone balls spanning the full length of the bridge, Cobbler’s Bridge. 

Prior to the current stone bridge, a wooden covered bridge stood in its place. Along the wooden bridge, shoemakers – or cobblers – set up booths, giving the bridge its name. 

Glass Bridge

A final bridge, you’ll want to cross in Ljubljana, the small pedestrian glass bridge is located between Cobbler’s Bridge and Triple Bridge.

There is nothing particularly noteworthy about the bridge. It has all glass sides so that it blends in with the surroundings rather than standing out.

But, the primary reason to venture across this little bridge is for the excellent view and photo opportunity of Triple Bridge and Preseren Square behind it. 

For the loveliest view, go at night to see the square and Triple Bridge lit up. 

Step inside Ljubljana Cathedral 

Also known as the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas, Ljubljana Cathedral is the city’s most grandiose church. With its green some and two side towers, it is an easily recognizable landmark in Ljubljana.

Historical records indicate a church has stood on the site since the 1200s, but the Baroque cathedral you see today was not constructed until the 1700s.

Prior to 1707 when the Baroque cathedral was completed, the church was a Gothic cathedral. However, that church burned down and the one you see today was erected in its place. 

Ride the Funicular to Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle towers over the beautiful capital city. Perched on a hill overlooking Old Town, there are two ways to get to Ljubljana Castle.

You can walk the path from the ticket office up to the castle. The climb will take approximately 15 minutes. Or, the easier alternative to the castle is to take the funicular, which is located in Krek Square across from Ljubljana Central Market.

The modern, glass car climbs straight up the rail line, taking just 60 seconds to reach the top. During rain or shine, you’ll get great views of the city through the glass as the funicular ascends or descends. 

Along the route, you’ll see ruins of a medieval defensive wall and moat that were unearthed during construction of the railway in the early 2000s. 

Explore or “Escape” Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle is definitely one of the top attractions in Ljubljana.

While you can book a ticket to explore the castle on a hill as a self-guided discovery, if visiting Ljubljana with kids, particularly older kids, the more exciting way to explore the castle is by booking the Escape the Castle ticket. 

Similar to an escape room, you’ll be tasked with solving puzzles, equations, and riddles in order to save the famous dragon and “escape” Ljubljana Castle. It is an interactive way to keep children engaged in the experience. 

If you choose to explore on your own, don’t expect to find king’s chambers or other rooms you might find in a royal castle or palace. Ljubljana Castle is a museum where you’ll find ancient relics and learn about the history of the castle and the city.

With a large central courtyard, it also serves as a cultural center that routinely hosts events and temporary exhibitions. 

Let your eyes play tricks on you at the Museum of Illusions (or visit one of the other great Ljubljana museums)

Ljubljana has several notable museums worth visiting if time allows. For history lovers, there is the National Museum of Slovenia.

For art lovers, the National Gallery is a must. And for families traveling with kids, like us, the Museum of Illusions is one of the best things to do in Ljubljana on a rainy day or a cold day.

Located in Congress Square, this three-story, self-guided experience is chock full of illusions that play tricks on your eyes and your mind.

With several interactive displays, like a bed of nails, an upside down room, and a spinning tunnel, kids and adults alike will enjoy this well-curated, fun museum. 

Relax in Tivoli Park 

The largest green space in Ljubljana, Tivoli Park is a great addition to any Ljubljana itinerary, particularly if you are traveling with kids or enjoy a momentary nature escape during a city break. 

Not to be confused with Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen , this public park, which opened in 1813, is an easy walk from Old Town, although you do have to leave the pedestrian area to get there. 

Covering more than 5 square kilometers, the park is best known for its wonderful walking and cycling trails.

For families, there is also a children’s playground where little ones can burn off energy. 

Shop for fresh fruit and vegetables at the Central Market

Ljubljana’s Central Market is one of the most robust open-air markets we’ve ever visited in Europe.

Aside from fresh Slovenian fruits and vegetables grown and sold by local farmers, you can find fresh cut flowers, breads, and food vendors selling cooked items.

So, whether you want to wander around and experience the atmosphere as locals shop for their weekly needs, buy some delicious fruits to snack on, or get a cooked meal, a visit to the Central Market is one of the best things to do in Ljubljana.

Open everyday except Sunday, you’ll find vendors and crowds here rain or shine. 

Marvel at Robba Fountain

Standing prominently in front of Ljubljana Town Hall, the Robba Fountain is a landmark in the city. Also known as the Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers, Robba Fountain dates back to 1751.

The work of Italian sculptor Francesco Robba, the fountain was inspired by, and similar to, the fountain in Piazza Navona in Rome.

The marble fountain features three men with jugs, which pour into the shell-shaped fountain and an obesek which reaches 33 feet in the air.

The Robba Fountain displayed in Town Square is actually a replica of the original fountain, which was moved to the National Gallery in 2006 for safekeeping and preservation.

Walk and Dine along the Riverfront

The Ljubljanica River is the heart and soul of the city. One each side of the river you’ll find pedestrian walkways and streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants with plenty of outdoor seating.

During nice weather, locals and tourists alike opt for a table outdoors where they can enjoy the view over a relaxing lunch or dinner. 

During your visit to Ljubljana, be sure to spend some time wandering aimlessly along the river. Take in the views, dine outdoors, and appreciate the atmosphere along the riverfront.  

Take a walking tour of Old Town

One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with a new city is to take a guided walking tour. These guided tours provide interesting detail and history of the city that you won’t get if you explore solely on your own.

You can book a private walking tour or join a larger group tour.

This is a great way to make sure you aren’t missing any of the highlights of Ljubljana while also learning about its past and current times.

Explore the quirky Metelkova Art Center

The Metelkova Art Center is perhaps one of the more unusual areas of Ljubljana, and visiting it will give you a different perspective of the city than what you gain in the quaint and charming Old Town district.

The former abandoned military barracks have been transformed into an alternative social center, if you want to call it that, where graffiti and street art cover every inch of the walls.

In fact, Metelkova Mesto is actually an autonomous, or self-governed community that considers itself separate from Ljubljana, despite being in the center of the city.

While its history is complicated, Metelkova has become a haven for artists, musicians, creative-types, and free-minded individuals.

We had some reservations about visiting this area, as we had read mixed reviews that squatters and drug use abound. But since it was only a 10-minute walk from Old Town, we ventured over to check it out. 

While we did not witness any drug use and felt completely safe at the Metelkova Art Center, we visited during the daytime hours, so we can’t speak to the nighttime atmosphere. 

The area, which is just a small square or two, is located right next to Hostel Celica , a former prison-turned-hostel where you can spend a night behind bars.

It is also near the Museum of Contemporary Art, so if street art isn’t your style, you can check out other art forms inside the museum.

ALSO READ: HOUR-BY-HOUR ITINERARY FOR ONE DAY IN LJUBLJANA

Frequently Asked Questions about Ljubljana Slovenia Things to Do

While this travel guide is about the best things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia, understandably you might have other questions about the city when planning your trip. So, here are a few FAQs about Ljubljana travel.

Is Ljubljana worth visiting?

Ljubljana is worth spending a day or two. It also makes for a great base city if you prefer to do day trips instead of moving around from hotel to hotel. You can easily visit Lake Bled, Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, or the charming, historic town of Skofja Loka as a day trip from Ljubljana.

How do you pronounce Ljubljana?

Ah, hard to pronounce and hard not to love. At first glance, Ljubljana might look like a difficult word to say. (Those Js really throw you off.) But once you get past the awkwardly placed Js, the city’s name isn’t actually hard to say at all.

Say it with me. Ljubljana is pronounced: LOO-BLEE-AH-NUH .

How many days do you need in Ljubljana?

Because Ljubljana is a relatively small capital city, you can easily discover the highlights of the city in one day or two.

We spent two days in Ljubljana before moving on to Lake Bled – one of the most popular places to visit in Slovenia, and home to one of the most famous churches in Europe .

How do you get around Ljubljana?

You can comfortably get around the main tourist areas of Ljubljana on foot. If arriving by train, it is about a 10 minute walk to Old Town Ljubljana.

If arriving by air, the airport is roughly 30 minutes from town, so you’ll either need to rent a car or book an airport transfer or shuttle from your hotel, if that is a service provided.

Is Ljubljana Slovenia safe to visit?

Slovenia is one of the safest countries in Europe. In fact, it is ranked among the safest countries in the world! Like any city though, Ljubljana isn’t immune to petty theft, pickpocketing, or other crimes.

So as with everywhere else, just be aware of your surroundings when out sightseeing. But in general terms, we felt very safe exploring Ljubljana with kids. 

What are the best guided tours in Ljubljana? 

There are several ways to tour Ljubljana. Whether you prefer to walk the streets alone or with a knowledgeable guide, you won’t be disappointed.

Some of the best guided experiences are day trips from Ljubljana, to places like Lake Bled and the beautiful Postojna Cave . 

Final Thoughts – Why you should visit Ljubljana 

With so many fun things to do in Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital is a must-visit. It’s unique architecture, cozy charm, and surrounding natural beauty is impossible not to love.

It is conveniently located in the middle of many of Slovenia’s other popular attractions, making it a great starting and ending point for a Slovenia road trip or a place to base yourself and venture out on day trips from the city.

Whether you have one day in Ljubljana or several days to discover the city, if you visit Ljubljana, you’ll likely come to the same conclusion we did – Ljubljana, and Slovenia in general, are extremely under-rated! 

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