Country guides
Europe
Things to do in Slovenia
Slovenia's attractions are many and varied, with enough historical sites, cultural curiosities, and outdoor activities to excite any traveller. Visitors can appreciate the peaceful country's natural beauty and diversity as they sunbathe on the Adriatic coast, go skiing in the Alps, or wander through ancient forests and fertile valleys.
Adventurous visitors can explore the wonders of subterranean Slovenia in the Postojna and Skocjan Caves, and can enjoy numerous outdoor pursuits, such as rafting, canyoning, horseback riding, and kayaking, while Triglav National Park is ideal for hiking and mountaineering.
It's worth soaking up Slovenia's rich heritage in lively Ljubljana, the country's capital, or in one of the smaller towns, such as well-preserved Piran on the coast, or one of the oldest towns in Slovenia, Ptuj. Travellers can learn about the country's history and culture in various museums and admire the mix of architectural styles evident in the old town centres, majestic palaces, and magnificent castles, such as the Bled, Ljubljana, and Predjama strongholds.
Visitors can also explore the verdant Vipava Valley, where they will find delectable but underappreciated wines to accompany excellent traditional cuisine. Hosting a wealth of events and festivals each year, Slovenia is full of character and culture, and travellers should have no problem finding locals willing to share it with them.
Ljubljana Castle
The imposing Ljubljana Castle towers over the city, offering spectacular views of the Ljubljanica River and old town skyline, with the distant Alps providing a stunning backdrop. A…
Ljubljana Castle
The imposing Ljubljana Castle towers over the city, offering spectacular views of the Ljubljanica River and old town skyline, with the distant Alps providing a stunning backdrop. A steep cobbled street winds its way from the old town to the medieval fortress, which dates back to the 11th century. The castle complex includes a museum, restaurant and chapel, with access to the castle provided by a scenic funicular ride. Visitors can admire the view from the castle's impressive tower, stroll through the tranquil grounds, learn about Slovenian history at one of the museum exhibitions, or attend one of the many cultural events hosted at the fortress.
Website www.ljubljanskigrad.si/en/the-ljubljana-castle/
Lake Bled
One of the most popular attractions in Slovenia, the charming town of Bled is located just 45 minutes' drive from the capital Ljubljana and is the base for many travellers in Slove…
Lake Bled
One of the most popular attractions in Slovenia, the charming town of Bled is located just 45 minutes' drive from the capital Ljubljana and is the base for many travellers in Slovenia. A town with gorgeous surrounds and an ancient history, Bled's foremost attraction is the glacial Lake Bled: a cobalt-blue expanse of water with a forested island in the middle, which is accessible by traditional rowboats known as pletnas. Overlooking the lake is the photogenic Bled Castle, while the island itself is home to the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary, one of Slovenia's most impressive sights. Bled also offers a range of outdoor sporting activities, such as golfing, fishing and horse riding, while the nearby Triglav National Park has fantastic walking and hiking trails.
Postojna Cave
Slovenia's Postojna Cave is the most-visited cave complex in Europe and has welcomed nearly 200 million visitors to gape at its incredible karst formations, cavernous chambers and …
Postojna Cave
Slovenia's Postojna Cave is the most-visited cave complex in Europe and has welcomed nearly 200 million visitors to gape at its incredible karst formations, cavernous chambers and interesting collection of cave art animals. Stretching for 13 miles (20km), one of the best things about visiting the astounding Postojna Cave Complex is its top-class infrastructure: the cave is well-lit and visitors access the underground walkway by train. Guided tours of the cave last about 90 minutes, during which visitors are treated to a wealth of glittering calcite formations, stalactites and stalagmites. The Postojna Cave is also home to a subterranean concert hall with celebrated acoustics, and hosts regular summer concerts of classical music.
Website www.postojnska-jama.si
Triglav National Park
The only national park in Slovenia, Triglav National Park is named after the highest peak in the country and the Julian Alps: Mount Triglav. Appearing on the Slovenian flag, the mo
Triglav National Park
The only national park in Slovenia, Triglav National Park is named after the highest peak in the country and the Julian Alps: Mount Triglav. Appearing on the Slovenian flag, the mountain is a symbol of national identity.
Its craggy, snow-covered summit provides a wonderful backdrop to a holiday spent exploring quiet forests and hiking to pristine waterfalls. The trail that leads out to the 240-foot (78m) Slap Savica Waterfall is particularly popular, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all over the continent.
Slovenia is fast becoming the go-to destination for skiing in Europe, with Triglav National Park providing some easy and affordable alternatives to those found in France and Switzerland. Vogel is probably the most popular resort, its powder descents surrounded by untouched sprawls of beautiful mountain forest, while there are also runs in the nearby towns of Kranjska Gora and Krvavec.
Triglav National Park is also perfectly set up for mountain bikers and keen mountaineers keen to tackle its rocky slopes. The park offers affordable camping, and its close proximity to Italy and Austria makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers wishing to experience the Alps.
Website www.tnp.si/national_park/