Last updated on May 6, 2016
From the soaring peaks of the Julian Alps and subterranean magic of Postojna Caves to the pristine emerald-green lakes and Adriatic coast, Slovenia has it all.
Skiing, walking, hiking, rafting, horseback riding, ballooning, caving or canyoning – the list of activities on offer is endless. And there’s a wealth of cultural history, too, with classical architecture and irresistible gastronomy that are sure to steal your heart.
Here are a few excellent places to start your Slovenian adventure:
Ljubljana ~ The Capital of Slovenia
Slovenia’s capital and largest city also happens to be one of Europe’s greenest and most liveable capitals. It’s small, pretty, easy to get around, full of hidden gems and surprises. It is remarkable for its rich tradition, youthful vibrancy, cultural creativity, entertainment and numerous green spaces. Bringing life to these historical riches, the city’s 50,000-odd students support an active clubbing and cultural scene, while the museums, hotels and restaurants are among the best in the country.
2. Bled ~ Natural Paradise
Bled is Slovenia’s most popular resort, with its emerald-green lake, picture-postcard church on an islet, a medieval castle clinging to a rocky cliff and some of the highest peaks of the Julian Alps and the Karavanke as backdrops. Yes, it’s every bit as lovely in real life drawing everyone from honeymooners to backpackers, who come for the hiking, biking, water sports and canyoning possibilities.
Be sure to add a visit to the glacial Lake Bled to your Slovenia itinerary planner, as well as the Slovenian Karst in Postojna cave or a tour of the fairy-tale medieval Predjama castle.
3. Maribor ~ Foodie Heaven
Slovenia’s wine-loving city, located on the banks of the Drava in the north-east of the country, oozes charm thanks to its delightfully picturesque old town, pedestrianised central streets abuzz with cafes and student life. For wine lovers, this place is a treasure trove. Engage your taste buds at The Old Vine Museum or the Vinag, which offers tastings of several Slovenian grape varieties. Fill a day’s activity enjoying the 15th-century castle, the even older cathedral, the Renaissance town hall and the synagogue. Farm shops sell local food and wine, and for souvenirs there are contemporary Slovenian arts and crafts to choose from.
4. The Karst Region and Coast ~ Culture and Diversity
Slovenia’s astonishing diversity comes to the fore in this region. Here is a natural reserve with a rich fund of marl and sandstone, the unique Strunjan cliff, the Sečovlje salt works, and a sanctuary for more than 150 bird species. Not far from the coast, the beauties of Slovene Istria with its picturesque villages await for you.
5. Dolenjska ~ Wine, Castles and Caves
Dolenjska is an area that offers countless opportunities to relax, explore and enjoy, to visit natural sites of interest and make interesting stops along heritage trails and wine routes. With its castles, caves, forests and rivers, Dolenjska offers a multitude of opportunities to discover and experience every bit of your adventurous self.
Do you recommend any other must-see places in Slovenia? Please leave us a comment in the section below and tell us all about them!
We had two holidays in Bohinj. Walking and climbing. One holiday my brother & myself hired a guide to take us up to Triglav their highest mountain at 9500 ft. It is a testing climb to get on the summit. It took two days, most people take three but we were very fit. The whole area is good or walking, the lake and the source of the Sava river.
I now live in Penclawdd..