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Slovenia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is crazy to me because it’s incredible! Known for its mountains, ski resorts, fabulous wine, extensive cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe — but with a fraction of the crowds and for a fraction of the costs.

Ljubljana, the country’s vibrant capital, is considered one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities while Lake Bled, Slovenia’s Insta-famous hotspot, is just as stunning in person as it is in photographs.

Inhabited since prehistory, the Romans established numerous outposts around present-day Slovenia. The region was later annexed by various powers, including the Holy Roman Empire and the Hapsburgs. Slovenia saw heavy casualties during World War I and was seized by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy during World War II. After the war, the region was part of Yugoslavia until Slovenia (and Croatia) gained independence in 1991.

Today, this often-overlooked country is a favorite of hikers and history buffs, owing to its rugged landscape and contentious past. There’s a slew of outdoor activities here, making it the perfect destination for active travelers looking for less-crowded landscapes.

This travel guide to Slovenia can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this incredibly undervisited country.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Slovenia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in slovenia.

1. Wander Ljubljana

Ljubljana (pronouced lyoo-blyah-nuh) is a city built on myth and legend. According to Greek mythology, Jason and the Argonauts slayed a dragon here. Wander around the old town, gaze at the Baroque architecture, and climb the clock tower to take in the view.

2. Visit Piran

Piran is one of the most picturesque cities on the Adriatic coast. Its crown jewel is its old town, which is one of the best-preserved historical centers in the Mediterranean. Take in the historic Venetian architecture and relax in one of the many plazas.

3. Enjoy the views at Lake Bled

One of the most popular destinations in Slovenia, Lake Bled attracts thousands of visitors every year. Its main draw is the island in the middle of the lake, which is home to a 17th-century church. Visit the nearby Bled Castle overlooking the lake too (admission is 13 EUR).

4. Do some water sports

Slovenia has 7 sizeable lakes. From stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking to rappelling down waterfalls, there’s something for every fitness level and interest. Expect to pay around 15-20 EUR for a SUP or kayak rental and 65 EUR for a canyoning trip.

5. Go wine tasting

Wine lovers visiting Slovenia should head towards the Vipava Valley. Tucked beside the Italian border, the mild climate and closeness to the sea makes for ideal winemaking conditions. Expect to pay at least 150 EUR for a full day wine tour.

Other Things to See and Do in Slovenia

1. visit predjama castle.

Located one hour south of the capital, Predjama Castle was originally constructed in the 13th century. It is now a Renaissance-style castle with a Gothic façade, built right into the side of a cliff. (Fun fact: a Slovenian robber baron once called the castle home.) There’s also a “secret” tunnel that leads to the nearby Postojna Cave. The cave stretches over 24,000 meters and is open to the public (it’s the second-largest cave system in the country). Admission to the castle is 13.80 EUR, the cave is 25.80 EUR, and a combined ticket is 35.70 EUR.

2. Go hiking in Triglav National Park

The Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park. Opened in 1981 and spanning 880 square kilometers (310 square miles), the park is named after the country’s tallest mountain. Thanks to its mountains, hills, lakes, waterfalls, springs, and rivers, the park is a magnet for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can also kayak, raft, skydive, parasail, and even scuba dive here. It’s a beautiful park and well worth a visit. To extend your time in the park, you can stay overnight in one of the mountain huts (from 80 EUR) or the lodge (from 26 EUR). It’s free to visit the park, though some attractions require small fees to visit (generally 2-5 EUR).

3. Tour Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle was built in the 16th-century and boasts some of the best views of the city. Perched on Castle Hill above the city, you can take a self-guided tour and wander the grounds yourself or take a guided tour to learn more about the castle and its history. Inside the castle are several permanent exhibitions on its history, the Museum of Puppetry, an escape room, and a café and restaurant. Admission is 13 EUR and includes a guided tour and a return funicular ticket (since the castle is up a hill).

4. Hang out in Velika Planina

Located northeast of the medieval town of Kamnik, Velika Planina translates to ‘Big Pasture Plateau’ — and that is pretty much what it is. This huge, empty plateau is dotted by a handful of small traditional wooden houses surrounded by the towering snow-capped Alps. From June through September, the houses are used by local shepherds whose livestock graze on the plateau, creating a seasonal village open to tourists. Be sure to sample some of the amazing cheeses and local dishes (like barley stew or hota , a bean and sauerkraut hotpot). To get here you either need to drive to the top or take a 10-minute gondola lift ride from Kamniska Bistrica, a nearby village, which costs 17 EUR for a roundtrip ticket.

5. Tour the Skocjan Caves

Located one hour from Ljubljana, this enormous cavern system spans over 1,000 acres. It’s considered one of the most important cave systems in the world as it is one of the largest, home to a unique ecosystem. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times and there are underground streams and rivers, massive stone formations, and a 47-meter-high bridge you can cross. The caves have been in use for millennia, appearing in written sources as far back as the 2nd-century BCE. They are awesome! Guided tours start from 18 EUR. You can also arrange day trips from Ljubljana.

6. Go skiing

For the best skiing, head to Vogel in the Lake Bohinj area. It offers both downhill slopes and cross-country trails. The regular ski season lasts from December all the way until May. Expect to pay around 10-30 EUR for a lift pass. You can also get multi-day passes that bring down the price per day. Osovje, Luce, and Dole Pri Litiji are some of the most affordable places to ski if you’re on a budget.

7. Visit the Rogatec Open-Air Museum

The Rogatec Open-Air Museum is a small but fascinating living museum that highlights what life was like in rural Slovenia in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Located near the border with Croatia , you’ll learn about everything from basket weaving to blacksmithing to how livestock was kept and managed. Admission is 3 EUR. It’s a bit cheesy but if you have time (or are looking for a family-friendly activity), stop by!

8. Hike to Lovrenc Lakes

For an easy and beautiful hike that won’t take much time, head to Lovrenc Lakes. Located near Pohorje in the northeast, this one-hour trail begins at the Rogla Ski Center. Follow the wooden footpath that leads to the middle of the bog where there’s a viewing tower to climb for stunning views over across the marsh and forest. There are longer full-day trails and mountain bike paths too. Admission is free.

9. Do some underground cycling

Underground biking is one of the more unusual experiences that you may not find anywhere else. Near Mezica in the north, cyclists can explore the Slovenian underground by taking a tour underneath Mount Peca via its disused lead and zinc mine shafts. There are 5 kilometers (3 miles) of underground trails that you can explore with tours costing 40-50 EUR. You can also kayak sections of the underground mine too (tickets are the same price).

10. Drink beer from a fountain

The only beer fountain in the world is in the Slovenian town of Žalec. Located in the hop-growing capital of Slovenia, the Green Gold Fountain opened in 2016. Choose between six different beers to taste (including a green beer specially brewed just for the fountain). Simply buy a special mug for 8 EUR and sample each of the six beers on tap in the fountain. The fountain operates from April to October. Continue your beer adventure by visiting the nearby Eco-Museum of Hop-Growing and Brewing Industry in Slovenia.

11. Take a food tour

Slovenia travel costs.

Accommodation – Hostel dorms with 4-6-beds cost 16-22 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and self-catering facilities are common. For a private room, expect to pay 40-50 EUR per night.

Budget hotels start at 40 EUR per night. Many budget hotels include free breakfast (but not all do) so if you’re on a budget be sure to book a hotel that includes free breakfast.

Airbnb is another budget-friendly option in Slovenia, with private rooms starting at 35 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 70 EUR per night (though prices average double that if you don’t book in advance).

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds are available around the country. Prices start around 12 EUR for a basic plot without electricity. Wild camping is illegal.

Food – Slovenian cuisine is influenced by Italian, Austrian, and Balkan cooking. Spicy sausage, goulash, and schnitzel make regular appearances and are easy to find in most restaurants. Burek , a flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese, is a local favorite for when you’re on the go. Other popular dishes are žlikrofi (potato-filled ravioli) and žganci (a porridge served with sauerkraut). On the coast, there’s plenty of mussels, fish, and squid.

An inexpensive dish at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 8-11 EUR, and a pizza costs about the same. International food, such as Thai and Indian cuisine, can only be found in the capital. Expect to pay between 7-13 EUR for a main dish.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 6 EUR for a combo meal, though you can get a doner kebab for around 3 EUR. A beer costs 2.50-3 EUR, a glass of wine is 3-5 EUR, and a cappuccino or latte costs 2 EUR. Burek , the flaky pastry mentioned above, can be found in cafes around the country for 2-3 EUR.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 15-18 EUR, including a drink. Prices are closer to 25 EUR for a steak dinner with a drink.

Some of my favorite places to eat and drink were Restaurant Manna, Vino & Ribe, and My Dumplings of Slovenia.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 30-40 EUR for basic staples like meat, potatoes, cheese, pasta, and seasonal produce.

Backpacking Slovenia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to pay around 50 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, doing free activities like walking tours and hikes, and using local transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of about 120 EUR, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out at budget-friendly for most meals, drink a bit more, do some castle tours, go cycling or kayaking, and take some taxis to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 225 EUR per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, do as many activities as you want, rent a car, and book some private guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Slovenia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Slovenia is one of the cheaper countries in Europe. If you’re trying to save money, it’s easy to do so, especially since most of the outdoor activities are free. Here are some ways to save money in Slovenia:

• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are a fun and budget-friendly way to learn about a new destination. Ljubljana Free Tour has a free tour that covers all the major sites in the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Get the Ljubljana Card – This city card grants entrance to 20+ museums, a free guided tour, a trip on the funicular, a boat cruise, free public transportation, and a half-day bike rental. The card comes in 24, 48, and 72-hour versions costing 31-45 EUR respectively.
• Ride Flixbus – Flixbus is an affordable way to get around the country (and region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for overnight and long-haul bus journeys.
• Cook your own meals – If you’re on a tight budget, book accommodation that has a kitchen. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it keeps your budget intact
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing (or a similar sharing economy site) is a great way to not only save money but you’ll meet knowledgeable locals who can help you better understand the city and its people.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major cities in Slovenia are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few extra euros.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Bring a reuseable water bottle – The tap water in Slovenia is safe to drink so bring a reusable bottle to avoid buying single-use plastic. LifeStraw makes bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s especially helpful if you’re out hiking).

Where to Stay in Slovenia

Slovenia has some great hostels in all the popular backpacker spots around the country. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Slovenia:

• Hostel Vrba (Ljubljana)
• Aladin hostel (Ljubljana)
• Proteus (Postojna)
• Hostel Lukna (Mojstrana)
• Hosteller (Bled)
• Adriatic Piran (Piran)
• Uni Youth Hostel (Maribor)

How to Get Around Slovenia

Public transportation – Public transportation prices vary by city but expect to pay around 1.20 EUR for a standard adult ticket.

Bus – Flixbus is one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel around Slovenia (and into neighboring countries as well). The 90-minute journey from Ljubljana to Bled is 5-9 EUR while the 75-minute bus ride from Ljubljana to Koper is 8-13 EUR. The 2.5-hour ride from Ljubljana to Zagreb, Croatia costs 12-18 EUR.

Train – Trains connecting Slovenia with other European cities run daily. Thanks to Slovenia being part of the Eurail network, it can be a great budget way to travel both internationally and domestically. This post has everything you need to know about the Eurail Pass .

Slovenia Railways is the sole company operating domestic trains. You can find the full timetable and pricing on their website. It is always better to buy your ticket in advance as prices can double if you buy them last minute.

The 2.5-hour train ride from Ljubljana to Koper costs 11 EUR while the hour-long trip from Ljubljana to Bled is 5 EUR. The trip to Zagreb, Croatia from Ljubljana takes around 2.5 hours and costs 24 EUR while the 3.5-hour journey to Graz, Austria is 13-18 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

Fly – There are no domestic flights in Slovenia as it’s a small country.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 25-30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Be sure to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as you need one for the rental.

When to Go to Slovenia

While it is a small country, Slovenia has a very diverse climate in its three distinct regions. In the mountains of the north, there’s an alpine climate, the central lowlands have a more continental climate, and the west has a more Mediterranean climate.

Summer is the busiest and most popular time to visit. From June-August, the weather is much more reliable though prices rise slightly and there are far more tourists around (especially at Lake Bled). Expect daily highs around 23°C (73°F).

To beat the crowds, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season — either April-May or September-October. The weather is warm enough to hike and explore but you won’t have to compete with the growing number of visitors.

Unless you plan on skiing, it is probably best to skip the winter months. Slovenia gets cold and temperatures can drop below freezing.

How to Stay Safe in Slovenia

Slovenia is not just one of the safest places to visit in Europe — it’s one of the safest countries in the entire world. Ranking 6th on the Global Peace Index, Slovenia is a country where you can travel freely without any noteworthy concerns for your safety (the United States, for reference, is ranked 117th).

Of course, you still want to use some common sense. Don’t flash any valuables and keep an eye out for pickpockets in busy areas like public buses or bus/train stations. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in the vehicle overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

While scams here are rare, to avoid getting ripped off, read my post on common travel scams to avoid.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Slovenia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Slovenia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

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TRAVELSLOVENIA.ORG – All You Need To Know To Visit Slovenia

All you need to know to visit slovenia.

Slovenia is a small country in Central Europe with an extremely diverse and interesting landscape including high Alpine peaks, thick forests, bucolic green countryside, and a short but extremely picturesque stretch of coastline on the Adriatic.

Introducing Slovenia

Slovenia is situated on the south of central Europe and shares borders with Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary. Nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, picturesque Slovenia is blessed with spectacular mountains and an Adriatic coastline. You can have one eye on the Adriatic Sea, then look in the other direction and be surrounded by hills and mountains of the Slovenian Alps. Distances between places in Slovenia are really short and within a single day you can visit the Slovenian coast and experience the Mediterranean climate or visit the mountainous region of Gorenjska and experience the Alpine and continental climate. The changing landscape is constantly surprising, and from the top of the highest Slovenian mountain Triglav (2,864 m) you can see coastline of Adriatic Sea if weather is nice. And that’s exactly the reason why visiting Slovenia can be a great choice for both, summer or winter holidays, with great winter sports architecture and remarkable mountains and, at the same time, the position on the coast of the sea.

This proximity of opposites and contrasts is a hallmark of Slovenia, which boasts many natural attractions located all over the country in very different habitats. The picturesque Mediterranean towns on the Adriatic coast, the pure and intact nature in the idyllic Triglav National Park in Slovenian Alps, the most beautiful glacial lakes Bled and Bohinj, the mysterious Karst region with native Lipizzaner horses and one of the most significant cave systems in the world, the beautiful wine growing regions of Primorska and Posavje and the small but charming capital Ljubljana with its cobbled streets, beautiful baroque architecture and medieval castle dominating the city. The fact that the third of the country is part of European Network Natura 2000 protected areas, gives you an insight in how beautiful Slovenia really is.

Slovenia is situated at the historical and geographical crossroads of western, northern and southern Europe, so it is not a surprise that it’s well connected to the rest of the continent in all directions, and by all means of transport. It’s just a few hours travel from Venice or Vienna. Slovenia is easy to reach from neighbouring countries (Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary), with good road and rail links, and daily flights from numerous European cities. As a maritime nation, Slovenia can also be reached by sea. Slovenia gained independence in 1990 and is an EU member and in the Eurozone with the currency of Euro. Time is CET (same as western Europe). The official language is Slovene (from the group of Slav languages), though English is spoken throughout major cities and tourist destinations and many Slovenians also speak German and Italian.

If we need to describe Slovenia in just one word, it would be the one that people often use in travel writing: beautiful, extraordinary, amazing, charming, lovely. Small, but so extremely interesting. Slovenian Tourism board advertises the country with the slogan ‘I feel sLOVEnia’. And the ones who have opportunity to visit Slovenia, find out that love is truly the main feeling you can get on the streets throughout major cities and tourist sites across the country. Slovenia is also considered one of the safest countries in Europe. Theft and violence are extremely rare. Wherever you are, even late at night in the cities, you can have no cause for concern.

Find Out Why Slovenia Should Be Your Next Destination To Visit In Europe

Slovenia is not necessarily a destination that’s on the top of everyone’s list of places to visit in Europe. But it wouldn’t be revolutionary if we told you that the fame of a place doesn’t guarantee the quality of your experience there, and vice versa. Places not included on lists of top recommended destinations in the world, can create some incredible travel memories. And that is exactly the case with Slovenia, a tiny, beautiful country sandwiched between Italy, Austria and Croatia in the very heart of Europe.

Slovenia pictures

Slovenia is often overlooked by travelers in favour of its more well-known neighbours like Italy, Austria, and Croatia, so please share this page on social media to help spread the word.

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52 thoughts on “all you need to know to visit slovenia”.

Very nice love it all.

Dear Sudhir

Idrija, Postojna, Logatec, Vrhnika are our closest and most popular destinations. In addition to accommodation at Lookout Resort, we also offer our guests guided tours of tourist attractions. The most popular are individual guided tours for 2 to 3 people with e-mountain bikes. So you can effortlessly discover and enjoy the most beautiful corners of our country with us. You can find more about us on FB >>> https://www.facebook.com/lookout.resort

Best regards, Leopold & Maria

I’m from India and these fabulous photos have inspired me so much that I want visit Slovenia and cover all the wonderful places whose Fall photos you have posted. Can you, or someone who reads this, help me form a travel plan for visiting them and maybe a few more places as time isn’t a constraint. Can I cover all the Fall destinations by using Public Transportation ? Thank you very much and best regards !

Slovenia is absolutely amazing. Been to Bohinj, Bled, Triglav National Park and surroundings, plus the karst and Piran. What a lovely country!

Such a beautiful country. Some day, I’m going to come and see all of these sights!

Seem a very nice destination I would really like to discover it

I hope to visit Slovenia in May of 2022, this is on my list!

Perfect 🥰🥰🥰, can’t wait to see and feel Slovenia again 🥰

Totally incredible country…try to visit every year to see friends and family and enjoy the best cuisine ever 😎

where do i apply for a visa?

Drove UN aid trucks through Slovenia on the way to Bosnia Kosovo etc years ago….. would love to go back there in our campervan…Slovenia♥️ is one of the most beautiful countries in all Europe!

It’s a few years since we visited Slovenia. Had hoped to return this year, maybe next year.

Due to corona situation we had to cancel our June trip and we have to wait till next year again. I feel very dissapointed cause we go to Slovenia every year and it’s like our second home, So i kinda feel homesick.

I have friends in Slovenia and went skiing in Maribor 2018….OMW!! Slovenia was beautiful in the winter, and have heard of how beautiful it is in the Summer time…but never realised it was as breathtaking as these photos show!!! Gosh! 🙈😊👌 Definately a must visit in the summer time. (Am from SA)

Slovenia is the most beautiful country in the world. Not up for debate.

Beautiful country with amazing people. ❤️

Such a beautiful country and its people are so friendly as well. Well worth the visit

I know you think you are smart, blocking people from copy+paste operations, but you also stop people from looking things up online with a simple select + search to get maps and other information they want So your site is wasted bandwidth.

Slovenia ranks among the very best trips we have taken!

I loved my time in Slovenia and would go back in a heartbeat

We’re planning a trip to Slovenia for 2021. I can’t believe how beautiful this country looks!!!!

I have a Cinderella-inspired contemporary screenplay that could be filmed here. Any producers interested?

Really looking forward to seeing the beauty of Slovenia

The country is beautiful, and the people are among the nicest I’ve met in 42 countries and territories.

I visited Piran last week and wish we could have stayed longer. There is a sculpture in Tartini square I am particularly taken with — a man reaching into his hollow chest. Does anyone know the artist and name of the sculpture? It is beautiful.

The statue represents Giuseppe Tartini, famous composer and violinist born in Piran. The sculpture was made by Venetian sculptor Antonio dal Zotta.

Giuseppe Tartini, Tartini square Piran – SLO

I am very keen to get to Slovenia and these photos are making me jealous.

We just loved visiting Slovenia! So many wonderful things to do and see.

Through the scenic beauty of Slovenia, you get to realize what a wonderfully beautiful world we live in!

Slovenia looks pretty! Definitely one for a future trip.

Slovenia has never been on my list. Looks like it’s time for me to reconsider!

I’ve loved looking at these Slovenia pictures. It makes me want to go there even more.

Excuse me while I just go try and find a way to book a ticket to Slovenia. These are beautiful photos and it makes me want to visit all that much more!

Airport Joze Pucnik Ljubljana. Welcome

Love love LOVE this website! All the more excited to visit Slovenia now!

What beautiful photos! Very inspiring! I’ve always wanted to go to Slovenia and your website just made me want to go 10 times more! Stunning!

Incredible pictures! I miss Slovenia so much it truly is paradise on Earth, I hope to be back soon!

WOW, these photos are spectacular! Slovenia seems like such insanely beautifully enchanting paradise.

Slovenia never left my bucket list. So inspired to go there soon!

Slovenia has always been on my bucket list! So much beauty!

Great pictures. I haven’t been to Slovenia for years, and miss it much!

Oh wow! I haven’t been to Slovenia, but it sounds like I need to go! I’ve heard incredible things about Ljubljana and Piran.

Mission accomplished, you’ve made me want to travel to Slovenia!

I love U all 🙂

Dvakratno UNESCO Idrijo ste pa kar preskočili? 🙂

wow just a beautiful. place hope to visit soon..

Last summers I had the best of vacations in Slovenia, I intend to visit this beautiful Place again, Once I get married.

The Slovenes are friendly and welcoming, many are English-speaking but do try a little of their language – Doberdan (hello) and Hvala (thank you) go a long way!

dobar dan is good day NOT hello!/ thanks.

people use it as a hello greeting

I LOVE sLOVEnia. Everyone seems really friendly in Slovenia – the only country with LOVE in its name!

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Privacy overview.

• Welcome to sLOVEnia

Experiences

• Discover wine regions of Slovenia

Traverse Slovenia’s diverse wine regions, learn about their unique styles and varieties, and uncover hidden gems.

• Discover Lake Bled

• Discover Slovenian Riviera

Welcome to Slovenia: Unveiling Nature’s Beauty!

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Slovenia awaits with open arms to enchant you with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. We are thrilled to be your guide as you embark on a journey through this hidden gem of a country.

Let us take you on a virtual adventure through Slovenia’s lush green valleys, majestic Alpine peaks, and picturesque coastal towns. Explore the diverse wonders of Triglav National Park, where pristine lakes mirror the sky, and emerald rivers wind through ancient forests. Discover the historic charm of Ljubljana, our capital city, with its lively cafes, medieval architecture, and vibrant art scene.

Dive into a world of fascinating traditions, where every village has a story to tell and every celebration is a vibrant burst of local culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or a culinary connoisseur, Slovenia has something special to offer.

As you navigate our website, you’ll find a treasure trove of travel tips, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences that will make your journey truly unforgettable. Get inspired by stories from fellow travelers who have fallen in love with Slovenia’s enchanting charm.

So, pack your bags and let us be your companion on this adventure of a lifetime. Slovenia is calling, and we promise that it will capture your heart and leave you yearning for more.

Discover Slovenia

Slovenia is a country with an abundance of natural beauty and cultural treasures.

Slovenia’s compact size and excellent infrastructure make it easy to explore multiple activities during your visit.

Slovenia offers a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

Where are you planning to go?

A mesmerizing alpine lake with an island in the center, Bled is famous for its picture-perfect scenery and a charming church on the island.

Slovenia’s capital city offers a mix of historic architecture, lively atmosphere, and a scenic riverside promenade.

Postojna Cave

Explore the breathtaking underground world of Postojna Cave, one of the most impressive karst caves in the world.

Predjama Castle

An architectural wonder, Predjama Castle is built into a cliff and holds a rich history and intriguing legends.

A beautiful coastal town on the Slovenian Riviera, Piran boasts narrow streets, Venetian-inspired architecture, and stunning sea views.

Triglav National Park

A haven for nature enthusiasts, this national park in the Julian Alps offers majestic peaks, emerald lakes, and pristine landscapes.

Škocjan Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Škocjan Caves feature an awe-inspiring underground gorge and vast chambers.

Velika Planina

Experience traditional alpine life on this high-altitude plateau with charming wooden huts and beautiful views.

Soča River Valley

Known for its vibrant turquoise waters, the Soca River Valley is an adventure seeker’s paradise offering activities like rafting and hiking.

The oldest town in Slovenia, Ptuj boasts well-preserved medieval architecture and a rich cultural heritage.

Kranjska Gora

A popular ski resort in winter, Kranjska Gora is equally enchanting during summer, offering outdoor activities and stunning alpine scenery.

Vintgar Gorge

Wander through the striking Vintgar Gorge, where wooden walkways take you alongside the emerald Radovna River.

Slovenia’s second-largest city is known for its vibrant student life, historic sights, and the world’s oldest vine.

Lake Bohinj

Quieter and less touristy than Bled, Lake Bohinj offers a serene alpine experience, surrounded by the Julian Alps.

Located in the Soča Valley, Bovec is an adventure hub, offering various outdoor activities amid stunning natural beauty.

Latest stories from Slovenia explorers

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The Perfect Slovenia Itinerary For 5, 7 or 10 Days

Table of Contents

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Looking for the best Slovenia itinerary? So was I, not so long ago. After my trip around Ljubljana, Bled, Lake Bohinj and Piran, I think I cracked the perfect route. In this guide, I’ll advise you how long to spend in each destination and what to do there, as well as other tips & tricks for making the most of your trip to this unbelievably beautiful country. Following the, ahem, events of 2020 and 2021, I was thrilled to visit Slovenia because it was my first new country in over 2 years. I’d run out of time when I was backpacking in Romania , Slovakia and Bulgaria in 2019 so it had been a long time coming.

SLOVENIA ESSENTIALS Accommodation : Booking.com / Hostelworld Tours & activities : GetYourGuide / Viator Getting there : flight / car / bus / train

How long to spend in Slovenia?

I spent 10 days in Slovenia and stayed overnight in four different places. However, you could see the big names (Ljubljana and Bled) in as little as 3 days if you’re pushed for time. Personally, I would recommend at least a 7 day Slovenia itinerary because you can get past the must-sees and check out a few other wonderful destinations.

Best time of year for a Slovenia itinerary

I would always recommend shoulder season to visit Slovenia. April to June and September to October offer pleasant weather, lower prices and reduced crowds compared to the busy summer months of July and August. During this season, small but popular destinations like Bled become totally overwhelmed and you’ll be lucky to find a spare bed! If you don’t mind the cold, you can even visit Slovenia in the winter . You’ll get bargains on accommodation and perhaps see the lakes frozen. Ljubljana also hosts Christmas markets .

Itinerary overviews

5 day Slovenia itinerary: 2 days Ljubljana, 2 days Bled, 1 day Bohinj 7 day Slovenia itinerary: 2 days Ljubljana, 2 days Bled, 1 day Triglav Nat Park, 2 days Bohinj 10 day Slovenia itinerary: 2 days Ljubljana, 2 days Bled, 2 days Bohinj, 1 day Triglav Nat Park, 3 days Istria.

Slovenia itinerary for up to 10 days

Now let’s get stuck into the details. I’ll share what to do in each place to help you plan a fun trip packed with sights, food and… well, more food!

Slovenia itinerary day 1 – Ljubljana

Most people’s Slovenia itinerary will start in the capital. You can get there by flight (I recommend Skyscanner for finding the cheapest tickets), car, bus (I arrived on the Flixbus ) or train . Ljubljana is a small but lovely city with a historic Old Town, castle, river with many impressive bridges, and places to eat and drink outside. Ljubljana is a fitting capital for Slovenia. Electric kavaliers transport people around (for free!), the main statue in the central square is of a poet not a war hero, and there are large green spaces for picnics and woodland walks. The city is developed and systems are efficient but nature and culture are prioritised. It feels like a blueprint for how cities should be.

Ljubljana Castle

The 12th-century castle houses several interesting museums within its interior, alongside offering the best views of the city from the tower. You can take a steep but short hike there or catch the to Ljubljana Castle funicular.

Entry to the castle starts from €12 and tickets including the funicular start from €16. There are various packages on offer including a ‘time machine’ guided tour, an escape castle experience and wine tours.

Things to do in Ljubljana:

• Start the day with a free walking tour to learn about the city
• See the buildings and statues in Prešeren Square
• Feel cultured at the many museums and galleries including the Museum of Contemporary History and the National Gallery
• Drink famous orange wine and other local varieties with Wine Tasting Ljubljana
• Browse the Central Market and eat lunch at My Dumpling or Kodila Gourmet
• Stop for an afternoon drink on Petkovšek Embankment
• Take a leisurely walk in Tivoli Gardens, the largest green space in the city complete with tranquil ponds, flowers, woodland, and interesting art works.
• Go for a sunset drink at the top of Nebotični skyscraper
• Wander quirky outdoor arts centre, Metelkova, a unique creative hub where alternative locals hang out to enjoy the graffiti and unique homegrown art works.

Read next: 38 things to do in Ljubljana

Where to eat & drink in Ljubljana

Now for the important stuff! I ate so much in Ljubljana, once during my first trip when my friend Kerrie and I were catching up after being separated for the turbulent years 2020-21. We had terrible weather so spent most of the trip in cafes and bars. During my second trip solo, I ate and drank even more! I don’t mean to brag (okay, that’s a lie) but I offer the BEST food advice. Here were some of the highlights.

• Atmospheric Slovenian restaurant – Figovec
• Slovenian lunch cafe – Kodila Gourmet
• Famous dumpling cafe – My Dumpling
• Best cake cafe – Cacao
• Best cafe serving local desserts – Pri Vodnjaku 
• Social enterprise – Second Violin
• Best veggie restaurant – Gujžina
• Best brunch – Ek Bistro
• Best Asian takeaway – Niam Niam
• Best drunk food – Burek Olimpija
• International eats – Abi Falafel , El Patrón Tacos & Store , Riksa wok
• Top tea house – Cajnica gallus
• Speciality coffee – Črno Zrno .

Alternatively, if you’re an indecisive foodie and want someone to pick the best food spots for you, then this 3.5-hour Ljubljana Food & Wine tour is perfect for you. You’ll sample 4 wines alongside dishes that represent the best regional cuisines in Slovenia.

Read next: complete Ljubljana food guide including restaurants, bars, cafes & food activities

Where to stay in Ljubljana

• Hostel – I heard great things about Hotel Celia inside a refurbished prison! It’s had a funky refurb and hosts events and activities. (Note – I hear it can be a bit loud at night. If that’s an issue, try the Sax Pub Hostel – guests say it’s cosy, relaxed and quiet, despite sharing a building with a friendly pub).
• Budget hotel – for a clean, spacious hotel with indoor & outdoor seating, White House Bela Hiša has coffee machines in every room and fantastic reviews. Book from €75 .
• Splash out hotel – treat yourself at uHOTEL with its rooftop wellness centre, swimming pool, fitness centre and renowned buffet breakfasts. Book from €120 .
• Apartments – check out Stella Sky with equipped studios and swimming pools with city views and Castle View Apartments with hot tubs and private parking.
• Browse all Ljubljana hotels on Booking.com and hostels on Hostelworld .

1 or 2 days in Ljubljana?

If your itinerary for Slovenia is tight, it’s easy to see the highlights of Ljubljana in a day. I’d prioritise a free walking tour, lunch at Central Market, walking up to the Castle and visiting a museum or gallery. With a second day, you can see the city at your leisure, spending a full afternoon relaxing in Tivoli Gardens if you have good weather. You’ll also have time for alternative attractions like Metalkova arts centre and Trubarjeva Cesta street with its diverse cafes and restaurants. If you enjoy the Ljubljana nightlife and take a bar crawl , you’ll appreciate the extra day to relax.

So, if you like the sound of taking it slow, dedicate an extra day to Ljubljana!

Slovenia itinerary day 2 – Predjama Castle & caves

One of the best surprises of my Slovenia itinerary was visiting the vast Postojna Cave complex and finishing the day at Predjama Castle built into a karst cliff. I hadn’t researched these destinations much because I’d been told I couldn’t take a day trip to them both by public transport. As a result, I booked a GetYourGuide day tour and waited to find out about them when I got there. It’s nice to switch off and let someone else do the work sometimes! Both were impressive but Postojna Cave was my highlight.

Postojna Cave

This vast underground wonderland is 3 million years old with eerie sculptures and 100-year-old lizards that only eat once a decade! A ticket gets you a mini railway ride and a guided tour. It’s undeniably touristic so might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Predjama Castle

Predjama is an 800-year-old castle lodged in a karst cliff complex. In high season, you can visit the cave complex under the castle. Here I heard the folklore tale that the Erazem of Predjama was killed on the toilet after being betrayed by one of his servants. Ouch! Browse cave and castle tours:

Budget tip – for a day trip, I’d suggest bringing a packed lunch and eating it in the castle grounds. There’s a decent restaurant onsite but, as is to be expected, prices are inflated.

Skocjan Caves

If you’re visiting Predjama and Postojna, there’s another set of caves just a 20-minute drive away in the town of Divača. UNESCO world heritage Škocjan Caves are more than 200 metres deep with 6km of passageways. Take a guided tour of the karstic complex (€18), follow the Reka River underground for 3-5 kilometres or take an above-ground 2km loop along the Škocjan Education Trail. From Ljubljana, you can drive, take a train to Divača or an Arriva bus .

Slovenia itinerary days 3-4 – Bled

A spot that I’m sure will be on everyone’s ideal Slovenia itinerary is world-famous Lake Bled. The town of Bled is where you’ll stay overnight but it’s not very exciting: it’s more of a launching point for exploring the wonderful lake. I visited in May and had perfect weather: not too hot but beautifully clear. The Julian Alps were still snow-capped. Just two days later at Lake Bohinj, the weather sucked so I’m happy the rain gods played ball for me here!

Things to do around Lake Bled

• Walk around the lake path (which takes a couple of hours depending how often you stop to snap photos and lust over the views) or hire an e-bike
• Explore from the water by taking a stand-up paddleboarding tour or by gliding across the lake in a transparent kayak .
• Hike up to Osojnica viewpoint on the opposite side of Lake Bled from the town. It’s a one-hour steep hike with lots of steps but the views are just phenomenal!
• For a real bucket list experience, go paragliding ! A few people in my hostel did this and loved it
• Visit Bled Castle dating back to 1004. Even if you don’t want to pay the €17 entry (my hostel were quite honest and told me it’s not worth it), it’s a nice hike to the summit
• Hire a paddleboat at a cost of around €16 an hour
• Board a pletna (taxi boat) to take you to the island
• On the island: climb 99 steps to the Assumption of Mary Church bell tower and ring the Wishing Bell, thought to make your desires come true.

Honest thoughts – the ticket to ring the Wishing Bell and climb the tower on the island was expensive at €10 and neither attraction was very impressive. The only thing I was wishing for my money back!

As a solo traveller, the only downside to visiting Lake Bled was wanting to hire a paddleboat but not having anyone to split the costs and rowing with. I hoped to meet people in the hostel but alas, no one’s sightseeing plans lined up with mine. Still, I can’t complain because Bled is paradise! I had a great time.

Bled cream cake

No Slovenia travel itinerary would be complete without eating Bled cream cake (Blejska Kremna). I had it twice in two days. It tasted better than it looked with a layer of sweet custard and a layer of cream sandwiched between flaky pastry dusted with icing sugar. More than 15 million portions have allegedly been served and I can see why! Try it at:

• Confectionery Zima – this is one of the OG places to eat cream cake with a history of more than 50 years.
• Grajska Plaza Restaurant – here I ate Bled cream cake with beautiful views of the lake. The cake itself was a little better at the first place but it was still very tasty and the views are unrivalled.

Where else to eat in Bled

• Mega Burger Bled – although it doesn’t look much from the outside, this takeaway place serves amazing burgers with loads of options including truffle burgers in black buns, fried chicken burgers, veggie burgers, wraps and healthy boxes. Grab a burger and eat it by the lake.
• Oštarija Peglez’n – I can’t rave about this place enough and, with over 2,000 reviews almost all positive, neither can anyone else it seems! It’s an atmospheric restaurant with a local feel and shaded courtyard area. Slovenian food like meat, seafood and pasta comes in enormous portions. I had a giant chicken fillet with ham, cream sauce, crispy potatoes and roasted veggies.
• Pizzeria Rustika – I didn’t have time to eat here but my hostel recommended it. The reviews mention fantastic pizzas and indoor & outdoor seating areas.
• Old Cellar Bled – for excellent risottos, pastas and other dishes with creative ingredients plus fantastic local wines, don’t miss this atmospheric evening venue.

Where to stay in Lake Bled

• Hostel – I stayed at Bled Hostel which was a great base with cooking facilities, a bar and friendly staff who will give you maps and help you organise everything about your trip. Highly recommended! Book from €20 .
• Budget hotel – a great option is Nature Hotel Lukanc with comfy rooms, parking and a garden area. Check availability from €90 .
• Mid-range hotel – just 2 minutes from the beach and set inside a 19th-century mansion, Vila Prešeren is a charming base. Check availability from €120 .
• Apartments – for all your home amenities, check out Apartments Mojca and Apartments Skok .
• Browse all Bled accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Half a day in Vintgar Gorge

Even if you have just 7 days in Slovenia, I’d suggest squeezing in a trip to Vintgar Gorge while visiting Bled. This natural paradise is one of the loveliest places I visited with a cool, misty climate even on a hot day.

The gorge is huge, reaching 1600 metres in length and 250 metres in depth, with the vibrant blue Radovna River gracefully cutting through the jagged rocks below.

You have superb views as you meander along wooden boardwalks built into the cliff, narrow passages, and bridges. At the end, you’re treated to the magnificent sight of a 16-metre waterfall. Entry to Vintgar Gorge costs €10. Operating with a one-way system, you’ll start at the ticket gate near Podhom village and end at Waterfall Šum near scenic St. Katherine Church . The gorge is closed during the Winter.

How to visit Vintage Gorge from Bled: walk (but make sure to bring enough water and sunscreen as there’s no shade), ride an e-bike , take a shuttle bus or drive. Even if you want to see Vintgar Gorge but you’re not staying overnight in Bled, it’s possible. Tours from Ljubljana visit Lake Bled & Vintgar Gorge during one day.

Slovenia itinerary days 5-6 – Bohinj

I added this second lake town to my Slovenia itinerary as an afterthought and I’m so glad I did. I wondered if it would underwhelm after spectacular Lake Bled but I was stunned by its beauty. Lake Bohinj is a lot bigger than Lake Bled and has different activities on offer. It’s a highly seasonal destination as you can swim in the waters of up to 24 degrees in summer but the lake often freezes in winter!

Read next: guide to visiting Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Things to do around Lake Bohinj

• Take a boat ride across the lake between Bohinj town and Camp Bohinj. This sightseeing boat has the dual purpose of transporting you to the start of the Savica Waterfall hike & the Vogel Cable Car.
• Hike to Savica Waterfall . Although there’s a car park and restaurant at the beginning of the hike, you can make it longer by starting at Camp Bohinj and walking through the Fairy Trail forest. If you’re super energetic and don’t mind a 4-hour return walk, you can even start in Bohinj town and hike along the north bank of the lake.
• Hike in Mostnica Gorge , a beautiful wooded area 6km from Bohinj. I hiked all the way to Planinska mountain hut serving hearty meals, beers and honey tea with jaw-dropping views of the valley.
• Ride the Vogel Cable Car to Vogel Ski Resort. Even if you don’t ski, it’s worth visiting the top for the best views around.
• Hire a kayak or canoe to explore the lake or go swimming.

For a 5 day Slovenia itinerary with a car, base either in Bohinj, Bled or anywhere in between for the final 3 nights and spend a day in each lake town then a day in Vintgar Gorge or Triglav Nat Park.

Where to stay in Lake Bohinj

• Hostel Pod Voglom – I stayed here and it was cheap with great buffet breakfasts including access to a cheese toastie machine! However, the place hasn’t been renovated for decades so don’t stay expect any luxury! Book from €22 .
• Hotel – stay at Bohinj Eco Hotel for 4* peace and comfort, views of the Julian Alps and access to the wellness resort. Book from €120 .
• Apartments – check out Cvetek Apartment in Ribčev Laz, and Apartment House Jager just out of town.
• Browse all Bohinj accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Where to eat in Bohinj

I survived on packed lunches and pasta in Bohinj as I was usually out hiking during the days and too tired to go for dinner when I returned. Still, I heard good things about the burgers at Foksner . A lovely place to enjoy drinks by the lake is Restavracija Kramar .

Slovenia itinerary for 7 days – Triglav National Park or Soča Valley

If you’re staying in Bled or Bohinj, you’re surrounded by national parks and nature. For your 7th day, consider one of the following: Triglav National Park : named after Mount Triglav, the highest peak in the Julian Alps at 2864m, this region incorporates Nadiža karst spring, Soča spring, Martuljek Waterfalls and countless other natural attractions. Browse Triglav tours and activities . Kranjska Gora : just north of Triglav is this alpine resort with options for climbing, hiking and, in the winter, skiing and other snow sports. Soča Valley : found in the east of Slovenia, this region is easily accessible from both lake towns. The Soča River is one of the most beautiful in Europe, bright emerald in colour with plenty of options for kayaking, rafting and canyoning. Another unmissable place is Vršič Pass, the highest mountain pass in Slovenia and a fantastic place for a hike. Top activities & excursions include:

• Triglav National Park tour inc 3 nature hikes (€99)
• Julian Alps tour inc Kranjska Gora and Soca Valley from Bled (€80)
• Canyoning adventure from Bled (€74)
• Kayaking on the Soca River adventure (€58)
• Zipline over Sava River (€30)
• 3 day self-guided Mount Triglav and Lakes Valley hike from Bled inc accom & transport (€200) .

Slovenia itinerary days 8-10 – Istria

At the top of the Istrian peninsular (also home to parts of Croatia and Italy ), Piran and the surrounding region make an excellent addition to any Slovenia itinerary. This was my first stop after crossing the border from Croatia and it made for a wonderful introduction to Slovenia, even though it feels culturally distinct. With a 10-day Slovenia itinerary, you have time to spend the last 3 days exploring lovely Slovenian Istria.

Getting to Piran

From Ljubljana, drive in 1 hour 20 minutes or catch an Arriva bus in 2 hours 40 minutes. Some buses will drop in Portorož rather than Piran so hop on a quick €1 bus or take a taxi. From Bled or Bohinj, you can drive in around 2 hours or catch a bus transferring through Ljubljana or Trieste, Italy.

Things to do in Piran:

• Admire the key buildings in Tartini Square and stop for a coffee
• Walk the Walls of Piran dating back to the 7th century and offering spectacular views
• Climb to the bell tower of St. George’s Parish Church for yet more amazing views
• Visit the quirky Magical World of Shells Museum
• Take a walk around the headland . There are plenty of cafes and beach bars where you can drink in the views… And Aperol Spritz! Continue along Fiesa footpath until you’ve had your fill.

Where to eat in Piran, Slovenia

• Rostelin – two words: truffle pasta! They also serve other dishes but I only tried the tartuf fuži , a traditional type of pasta native to Istria. Large strips of pasta are cut diagonally to make diamond shapes.
• Fritolin Pri Cantini – right beside Rostelin, this is another highly-rated restaurant with outdoor seating. Mussels, sardines, whitebait and calamari are all on the menu. I heard great things but didn’t eat here because the menu is largely based around platters for multiple people and I was travelling solo.
• Ladja Podlanica Piran – the best meal I had in Piran was at this super local restaurant aboard a docked boat in the harbour. There’s no menu, just a few fresh seafood dishes of the day explained by the staff. It’s wonderful!
• Gostinstvo Jasmina Račan – this was another gem I stumbled upon with excellent reviews and quality local fare. The squid I had was super fresh and very affordable.
• Piran Pirano PastIccerIa – the best gelato in town with SO many flavours!

Where to stay in Piran

• Hotels – Art Hotel Tartini is decorated with art by Slovenian artists and has an enviable breakfast buffet (€120) / Hotel Piran is right in the centre of town with a restaurant, terrace and patio with sea views (€130)
• Apartments – traditional Piran house (€40)
• Browse all Piran accommodation on Booking.com and also check Portorož (a short bus ride away) for more options

More places to visit in Slovenian Istria

If you have limited time for the Istria leg of your Slovenia itinerary, I would recommend basing in Piran. It’s so charming! However, if you have any time for excursions, there are other places you can visit. Having a car here will enable you to see a lot more of the region in a short space of time.

This was where my Flixbus from Croatia arrived. Although I didn’t stay long, it’s a popular destination with a fancier vibe than Piran. There are hotels, beach bars and cafes. Cafe Central is known for its famous cakes so of course I swung by with all my luggage before heading to my accommodation in Piran. Priorities in check!

If you do prioritise longer in the spa town of Portorož during your Slovenia itinerary, there are a few things not to miss. If you’re staying for the seaside, then laze on Portorož Beach or Moon Bay (or rent a boat!), enjoy epic coastal views from the Strunjan Cliff path and try the local seafood. A more unique option is visiting the sculptures at Forma Viva – there are 120 ocean-side stone statues here, deftly melding art and nature together.

Due to its history as a spa destination, dating back to the 13th century when Benedictines from the monastery believed the nearby seawater and mud would help cure diseases and benefit health, it’s well worth trying a spa experience while you’re here (if your budget allows for it)! The Water Park Laguna Bernardin features a massive heated seawater pool, but many hotels feature spa treatments.

This traditional coastal town in Slovenian Istria is a lovely place to wander by the water or enjoy the many outdoor restaurants and cafes. You can see the main sites of Koper in half a day, giving you time to see the historic architecture and soak up the charming cafe-lined streets.

Visit Da Ponte Fountain (a replica of Rialto Bridge in Venice ), learn about the town at the regional museum, admire the 15th-century Praetorian Palace or pay €5 to climb 241 steps to the Bell Tower . Reach Koper from Piran in 25 minutes by car or catch a local bus.

This scenic fishing town has a couple of small beaches and several significant buildings including churches and palaces. The lack of huge must-dos means it’s sleepier and quieter than its neighbours: perfect if you hate crowds! Izola is halfway between Piran and Koper so makes an easy stop between the two.

If you do add Izola to your Slovenia itinerary, don’t miss the picturesque harbour, known for its colourful houses, cute fishing boats and the medieval Church of St. Mauro. Climb up 99 steps to the top of the church’s bell tower, built in 1356, for the best views in town. Next, wind through the quaint streets of the old town to see the Besenghi degli Ughi Palce and Manzioli Palace.

If you’re here for the seaside, relax on Svetilnik Beach, see the unique rock formations at Bele Skale Beach or wander down Izola Promenade. If you’re hungry, the promenade is also an excellent spot to find a seaview restaurant or cafe. You’ll also find plenty of spots for snorkelling and boating if you feel like taking to the water.

Alternate spots for your Slovenia itinerary

If somewhere above doesn’t take your fancy, there are several other places I can recommend. For an alternative to the classic itinerary, get off the beaten track at the following spots…

Maribor may be the second largest city in Slovenia however it’s still small by most country’s standards with less than 100,000 residents. The view from Pyramid Hill alone may be worth the trip to Maribor and that’s before discussing what the town is known for: wine! Wine fans may be interested to know that the world’s oldest grapevine can be found here at the aptly named Old Vine House in Lent district AKA the Old Jewish Quarter. But you’d be forgiven if history isn’t your bag and you just want to drink wine at the various tasting rooms around town! The Jeruzalem wine region is a spectacular hidden gem in Europe. For a summer road trip in Slovenia when tourist hotspots like Bled and Ljubljana are crowded and expensive, peaceful Maribor is a relaxed alternative that doesn’t compromise on beauty. The drive from Ljubljana takes 1.5 hours so you could consider visiting as a day trip or spending a leisurely couple of nights here.

The idyllic Slovenian town of Ptuj is just a 30-minute drive from Maribor so it’s worth a visit if you decide to add Maribor to your Slovenia travel itinerary. Like many historic European towns, it has a castle with fantastic sweeping views of the countryside and town’s typical red roofs. The locals’ fear of invasion has worked out very well for our photo-worthy travel shots! From Maribor, drive or take a taxi or the train (there’s also a bus but just one per day).

Vipava Valley

This is another lesser-visited wine region that may appeal to those who love hidden gems, sweeping scenery and, of course, delicious vino! This Vipava Valley region is very near the famous Škocjan Caves and Predjama Castle so, if you’re travelling with a car, it could be the perfect base from which to visit them while enjoying the Slovenian countryside peppered with wineries.

If sleepy wine regions don’t sound like your cup of tea (or wine), a contrasting area for adrenaline junkies is Bovec, nestled in northwest Slovenia. Located in the upper part of the Soča Valley, it’s not a million miles from the Julian Alps or Triglav National Park so can easily be combined into a Slovenia road trip itinerary, or you can catch a bus from Ljubljana. Activities in Bovec range from ziplining to rafting and kayaking on the Soča River. Virje Waterfall and Soča Gorge are spectacular points of natural interest.

Where next?

If you have more time to spend in Europe, consider crossing a border.

I spent 3 months living in Croatia so it’s somewhere I’ll always love and recommend to fellow travellers. The popular Dalmatian coastal cities like Split , Dubrovnik and Zadar aren’t especially close to Slovenia, however Zagreb is approximately a 2-hour journey by car, bus or train from Ljubljana. Ticking off the best things to do in Zagreb would make a cool 2-day city break. Likewise, if you’re visiting Piran, it’s only a short drive over the border in Istria to reach Croatian destinations like Pula and Rovinj . Pula has well-preserved Roman ruins and boat trips to the Brijuni Islands while Rovinj is ridiculously quaint and charming with fantastic food and colourful streets.

Read next: the ultimate Croatia itinerary

From Slovenian Istria, you’re just a few kilometres from Italy. The closest city is Trieste , a port city full of culture. The medieval Old Town takes influence from Italy, Slovenia and the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. Visit Miramare Castle, eat seafood, tour the museums and enjoy being in the Italian city that consumes the most coffee! You can also reach Venice in under 2 hours from Ljubljana. This is what I did, catching the Flixbus at the end of my Slovenia itinerary and finally ticking Venice off my bucket list. This city can be expensive and crowded (and dirty compared to Slovenia) but it’s a wonder of our world. See it before it’s too late! After that, I continued my Northern Italy itinerary and departed from Milan airport. This would make a great route if you have the time and energy left over!

For more Central Europe inspo see my guides to Budapest , Bratislava , Prague & more !

Slovenia FAQs

Is Slovenia expensive? I would say that Slovenia is not just between Western and Eastern Europe geographically but also in terms of cost. Hostels start from €10 a night, intercountry bus journies cost as little as €1 (that’s how much I paid between Lake Bohinj and Bled, although strangely the return journey cost €5) and meals in restaurants start from €6. However, in the summer, prices surge so it’s not a cheap detination between June and August! Can you drink tap water in Slovenia? Yes, it’s pristine! Is Slovenia safe? Incrediby so. It’s easily one of the safest places in Europe for solo travellers . I was there alone and felt very safe as a woman. The only place I had a slight problem with some shady characters was around Metelkova, an alternative live music and street art venue in Ljubljana. Is English spoken in Slovenia? Yes, locals speak amazing English and are happy to help you. But of course you should learn the local pleases and thank yous to be polite!

Thanks for reading!

Read my other Slovenia posts:

• 38 things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Where to eat and drink in Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Lake Bohinj travel guide
• Review of Wine Tasting Ljubljana

For more Europe content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

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TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING SLOVENIA Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Driving in Europ e – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use Flixbus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide and Viator . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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The 12 most sensational things to do in Slovenia

May 3, 2024 • 9 min read

The Julian Alps boast incredible hiking trails for every fitness level DavorLovincic / Getty Images

You’d be hard-pressed to find a country that packs so much to see and do in such a compact area.

Slovenia sits amid both the Alps and the Adriatic, influenced by neighboring Italy, Austria, and the Western Balkans. And, because of its diminutive size, a visit here can cover all of its regions.

Though you could easily lose yourself in any quadrant, those looking to gather country-wide experiences are in for a multi-layered treat. World-class outdoor activities can be combined with city-based excitement. Wine tours are easily paired with history-themed journeys. Here is a smattering of the best things to do and experience in Slovenia.

1. Hike in the Alps on the Juliana Trail

Slovenians are mountaineers at heart, and the Julian Alps in the northwest are crisscrossed by miles of breathtaking hiking and trekking trails. For less experienced adventurers, a hike in the Alps may feel extreme but it doesn’t have to be. The Juliana Trail , a 270km (168 miles) loop that follows the contours of  Triglav National Park , is an excellent, accessible introduction. The majority of the trail’s 16 stages are relatively flat and categorized as easy or moderate, and the highest elevations reach around 1325 meters (4347ft).

Detour : Any trip to Triglav National Park wouldn’t be complete without a side trip to (or overnight stay at) two of the country’s top attractions – the scenic, Alpine lakes of Bled and Bohinj .

2. Hit up Ljubljana’s Central Market for gourmet picnic provisions

More than just a place to stock up on fresh ingredients, the outdoor and covered areas of the Central Market form the lifeblood of Ljubljana . Just off the main square, beyond the famous Triple Bridge and on the banks of the Ljubljanica River, vendors offer everything from fresh meats, fish, vegetables, fruits, cheeses, nuts, honey and liqueurs. There are plenty of tables around to enjoy the spoils on-site, or better yet, toss everything in a bag for an impromptu picnic along the river or in the capital’s sprawling Tivoli Park.

Planning: Return to the market on Friday afternoons between March and November for Open Kitchen  (Odprta Kuhna). Dozens of restaurants from across Ljubljana set up stands for a weekly food fest, offering specially prepared dishes to eat on the street.

3. Admire the urban design of Jože Plečnik

Whether they know it or not, one of the reasons people fall in love with Ljubljana is thanks to the architectural prowess of Jože Plečnik, a native of the Slovenian capital who – during the first half of the 20 th  century – designed many of its most ornate buildings and structures.

Plečnik’s genius, for example, transformed the city’s Triple Bridge from an ordinary structure to today’s mesmerizing labyrinth of white baubles and balustrades. It was also Plečnik who graced the Central Market with its distinctly classical columns and arches. The Plečnik House , where the architect and urban planner lived and worked for nearly four decades, is a great place to begin. Many of his works have now been granted UNESCO protection for cultural heritage.

Planning: Architecture fans will want to take a guided cycling tour of the city through the eyes and talents of Ljubljana’s favorite son.

4. Get medieval in castle country

The region along the Sava and Krka Rivers in southeastern Slovenia is often overlooked because of the sheer number of top sights packed into the country’s western half. The Lower Sava Valley Region ( Posavje in Slovenian) is medieval castle country, featuring scores of these imposing structures scattered across the forested hilltops.

Of particular note is the stretch along the Sava River linking the historic structures from the town of Sevnica to the Mokrice Castle near the Croatian border. Combine a castle tour with a chocolate tasting at the elegant and fully restored Rajhenburg Castle near Krško. In the well-preserved, 13th-century Brežice Castle, you’ll find the Posavje Museum with exhibitions explaining the area’s heritage from pre-historic times to the modern era.

Detour: North of Brežice, the picture-perfect Bizeljsko-Sremič Wine District is lined with wineries that invite a stopover whenever you see a cellar that catches your fancy.

5. Go spelunking in the Karst Region

It may be hard to believe but Slovenia is just as breathtaking below ground as it is above. The southwestern Karst Region, in particular, is riddled with spectacular limestone caves, which you don’t need special equipment to explore. Two caves stand at the top of the list: Postojna and Škocjan .

Take a four-kilometer train tour into the Postojna Cave’s nearly 24 kilometers of tunnels in total. Of special interest to visiting cavers are the translucent salamanders , or olms, also known as “human fish” or “baby dragons.”

The UNESCO-listed, 6km-long (3.7-mile) Škocjan Caves offer guided tours through the so-called “Silent Cave” and then into the “Murmuring Cave” with a bridge taking amateur, and professional, spelunkers nearly 50 meters (164ft) above the Reka River flowing below.

6. Sample the world’s oldest wine

There’s vintage wine and there's record-setting vintage wine. To sample the latter, head to the Old Vine House in Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city in the country’s northeast corner. The vine growing up the house’s facade is more than four centuries old and holds a spot in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest noble vine still bearing fruit in the world. Have a seat on the terrace and taste this ancient red variety, or the many others its shop offers.

7. Ride a scenic railway through the Alps

The Bohinj Railway, in the northwest of the country, numbers among Europe’s most scenic train lines and is an absolute must for rail buffs. The line’s history dates to the start of the 20th century, when tracks were laid here to better connect the northern reaches of the Austro-Hungarian Empire to the Adriatic. Opened in 1906, the route went through Slovenia and the Alps.

To combine sightseeing, history and responsible travel in your itinerary, hop aboard the train in the town of Bohinjska Bistrica and take it to Nova Gorica on the Italian border. On your voyage, you’ll pass through the mountains via the 6.3km (3.9-mile) Bohinj Tunnel, roll along the show-stopping, emerald Soča River, and over the Solkan Bridge, which, at 85 meters (279ft), is considered to be the longest stone-arch rail overpass in the world.

8. Gallop with history in Lipica

Thousands of visitors each year crowd Vienna for the chance to glimpse the white Lipizzaner horses of the fabled Spanish Riding School , but far fewer people know that Lipizzaners have been bred in Slovenia’s Karst Region for more than 400 years. The Lipica Stud Farm  is home to some 300 elegant, white horses.

Stroll the grounds and snap photographs of the friendly animals as they trot through and are herded across 300 hectares (741 acres) of fields. Take a guided tour of the farm to visit the museums and stables, and then stick around for a carriage ride, trail outing or a performance of the Lipica Riding School.

Planning: Choose your activities and book tickets in advance on the Lipica website. Avoid visiting on Mondays when there are fewer performances or activities.

9. Earn your Slovenian stripes by climbing Mt Triglav

Scaling Mt Triglav, the country’s tallest mountain at 2864 meters (9396ft), is something of a rite of passage here. As the legend goes, to be a real Slovene you must summit the mountain at least once in your life. The setting, among the Julian Alps in the Triglav National Park , couldn’t be lovelier or more inspiring.

While you don’t need to be a world-class climber to reach the peak, you do need to take this mountain seriously and seek local guidance on the best trails and approaches. Bring a helmet and harness to attempt one of the steep but safe via ferrata routes. Allow for two days of relaxation at your starting point before attempting the all-day scramble.

10. Reward yourself with a splash in the Adriatic Sea

It's not so much that people forget Slovenia has a coast (clocking in at just under 50km/31 miles), it's that the Adriatic shore is often left for last as a reward for a successful trip through the mountains, along the rivers, between the vineyards, and into the caves. When your time comes to head to the coast, there is a destination for everyone.

Koper , the largest city on Slovenia’s coast, is more than a port. It’s a great place to bathe both in the sea and in history with a visit, for instance, to its 15th-century Praetorian Palace . Just to the southwest, the sleepier and oft-overlooked town of Izola is another great place to get away, and arguably the best town in the country to enjoy a seafood meal.  Gostilna Bujol offers simple dishes like mussels and calamari; Gostilna Sidro has great food and great views.

Further west brings you to the peninsular town of Piran , with its historic Venetian-style architecture, beaches and (especially) incredible sunsets.

Detour: Strunjan Landscape Park , 4km (2.5 miles) east of Piran, is a protected natural reserve with some of the country’s finest, and most isolated, beaches.

11. Wine tasting with heritage in Goriška Brda

Slovenia isn’t widely known for wine, but that’s only because the country doesn’t export much of it (preferring to keep it all for itself). Indeed, the wines – both whites and reds – are excellent. You can sample them all over the country but in the region of Goriška Brda, at the foot of the Julian Alps, you'd be forgiven for thinking you’ve landed in Tuscany (without the tourists). It’s an absolute charmer: rolling hills lined with grapevines and sun-kissed orchards topped with small settlements and churches.

There are many wonderful vineyards to visit and enjoy during your stay. In the community of Ceglo, the Marjan Simčič and Movia vineyards have had much to do with Slovenia’s ascension in the wine world. Just north in Dobrovo, the Klet Brda Winery is a cooperative of some 400 families – take a tour of the cellars and taste the varietals. Ščurek Vino, a Plešivo-based cellar, also provides tastings and tours and  Edi Simčič , a third-generation family estate in Vipolže, is another top option.

Planning: Most local wine producers require visitors to call ahead to arrange a tasting. Though it may be tempting to just drop into a vineyard as you trail along the many vinska cesta (wine road) signs, spontaneous visits are simply not the Slovenian way.

12. Tour the many microbreweries of Kamnik

While many other parts of Slovenia depend heavily on wine production, the town of Kamnik in the Kamnik-Savinja region relies instead on the local water, which just happens to have the ideal chemical composition for beer-making.

The predictable result is that Kamnik now boasts more microbreweries per capita than any place on earth. The Beer Way to Freedom Tour is a fun, occasionally raucous guided circuit of some of the town’s best microbrews, with good-natured conversation to bring you up to speed on the beer.

Detour: Combine a trip to Kamnik with a visit to nearby, picturesque Velika Planina , a vast plateau at 1600m and one of the largest herdsmen’s settlements in Europe. Sample some trnič, a sharp cow's-milk cheese that pairs well with another local favorite –  žganci (buckwheat porridge ).

This article was first published Jan 10, 2022 and updated May 3, 2024.

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