must visit cities in slovenia

The 8 best places to go in Slovenia

May 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana, is a charming delight full of culture, bike trails, museums and cafes © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet

For proof that good things come in small packages, one need only visit Slovenia . In an area half the size of Switzerland, this Central European country packs in breathtaking mountain scenery, lively coastal resorts, fashionable cities, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, and charming, isolated villages.

Better still, because of this compact size, you can take in most or all of these delights within the course of one trip. In the span of a few days, you can walk in the Alps, kayak a glacial waterway, visit some world-class winemaking regions, and take a dip in the sea. Don't worry if you're not able to name many cities, regions or landmarks in this stunning country. Slovenia – hiding in plain sight – is waiting to be explored.

1. Ljubljana

Best for spectacular architecture

All roads in Slovenia lead to the capital, and not just because it’s situated in the center of the country. Ljubljana buzzes with active, cycle-riding residents, alternative culture and eclectic restaurants, museums and cafes. However, the setting alone is worth a visit – every square features stunning architecture that reveals the city’s history in stone and eye-catching ornamentation.

Start your investigation at the fairytale-like Ljubljana Castle , an ancient hilltop fortification whose origins date back to the 12 th  century. You can either hike a short but steeply inclined path to the top or take the funicular. Once there, poke around old medieval rooms that have been preserved and take in attractions like the Slovenian History Exhibition or Museum of Puppetry .

Make your way back to the Old Town to admire the main square, Prešernov Trg , and its baroque, salmon-pink 17th-century Franciscan Church of the Annunciation . Several buildings here sport beautiful art nouveau and secessionist facades from the early 20 th  century.

Fans of early-modern architecture will want to scout out the works of native son Jože Plečnik, a gifted architect who bequeathed several breathtaking bridges and buildings to the city during the first half of the 20th century. Many of his creations, including the dazzling Triple Bridge  and the interior of the National & University Library , are UNESCO-protected works of cultural heritage.

2. Lake Bled

Best for a romantic holiday

Whether you know it or not, you’ve likely seen Lake Bled before. The image of a seemingly mythical church standing in the middle of a turquoise lake is Slovenia’s most iconic image. Even in two dimensions, this magical place pulls at your heartstrings. When you see it in person, with that special someone by your side, get ready for fireworks.

Begin with a sunrise walk around the lake, about 5km and almost entirely flat. Three footpaths signposted " Grad"  lead toward Bled Castle ;  each one involves a climb but it's worth it for the views. Then visit magical, tiny Bled Island in the middle of the lake. Board a pletna , a wooden boat that resembles a Venetian gondola, and head over to climb the 99 stairs into the Church of the Assumption of Mary .

No romantic outing here is complete without an easy hike to Vintgar Gorge , around 4km from the center of town. Boardwalks and bridges take visitors on an intimate journey across the magical 1600m-long ravine.

Planning tip: Buy tickets for Vintgar Gorge in advance . Entry is staggered to protect the gorge; pets are also welcome by purchasing a special ticket.

3. Lake Bohinj

Best for experiencing local culture

For a small country, Slovenia boasts a surprising amount of regional variation. The communities surrounding pristine Lake Bohinj – Slovenia’s largest natural lake, tucked into the Triglav National Park – truly lean into their regional identity. You’ll find makers here of everything from distinct dairy and cheese products to meats, honey, jam and even gin. To make it easier to find the genuine article, look for the “Bohinjsko” (from Bohinj) label signifying it’s locally produced.

Hike out into the rural hamlets north of the lake to learn more about local lifestyles. At the Alpine Dairy Farming Museum in Stara Fužina, exhibits explain how farm-to-table is more than just a dining trend – the locals are passionate about their heritage. Give in to the temptation to sip on whatever is handed to you and just listen.

Bohinj comes into its own in summer when you can swim or sail on the lake and hike or bike into the national park. Once you’re ready to travel again, board the scenic Bohinj Railway and ride it from the station at Bohinjska Bistrica all the way to Italy.

Planning tip: Lake Bohinj is lovely in springtime when the annual International Wildflower Festival allows you to experience the region from the roots up. Learn more about the magical activities in the area with our insider guide to Lake Bohinj .

Best for peeling back layers of history

Maribor could fit into several “best of” categories. Slovenia’s second-largest city anchors the country's Podravska wine region and has a thriving gourmet scene, including some of the country’s best restaurants. Plus, because it sits on the Drava River, it's a hub for adventure activities like rafting, cycling and hiking. But 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 modern city dates back to the Middle Ages. First, stop in at Maribor Castle, home of the regional museum , to get a historical overview and then explore the main medieval market square, Glavni Trg .

Here, you’ll see the 16th-century Town Hall before taking a seat to enjoy 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. If you want to stretch your legs some more, hike 30 minutes out to an ancient, 12th-century castle known as Piramida .

Planning tip: Two excellent restaurants to try are Hiša Denk and Restavracija Mak . Book your table well in advance, particularly during the high season.

Best for outdoor adventure

At the edge of Triglav National Park, squeezed between the Julian Alps and the crystal-clear turquoise Soča River, Bovec is a haven for water-based activities. The frothy river, boasting unimaginable cerulean shades that come from the underlying bedrock itself, is just as stunning as you’ve heard and neither picture nor rumor does it justice.

The best way to experience the river is to join a white-water rafting or kayaking tour (they run from March to October). Canyoning – where groups make their way down a mountain stream in a gorge with techniques like abseiling, climbing, sliding and jumping – is gaining ground too. Bovec offers zip lining over the Julian Alps, with more than 3km of lines at the Adrenalin Park Bovec .

In winter, skiing is king, and nowhere is more popular than the Kanin Ski Centre. The biggest ski area in Slovenia shares custody with Italy, and the starting point for the gondola is in Bovec. Hit the slopes and watch the sea below.

Planning tip: Several rafting companies offer excursions for beginners and experts, including Nature's Ways  and Kayak Soča .

6. Karst Region

Best for landscapes and caving

Slovenia’s Karst Region, which takes its name from its porous, limestone topography, is home to some of Europe’s largest and most-stunning cave systems. Two caves in particular, Postojna and Škocjan , stand out but the karst is riddled with dozens of underground attractions. Postojna Cave, one of the world's largest, features unparalleled stalagmite and stalactite formations. Once inside, take a 1.5-hour tour that unveils 5km of the expansive cave. More than half the journey is covered by a cool electric underground train.

The immense complex of the Škocjan Caves, 20km southwest of Postojna, is, if anything, more spectacular. The entire system was created by the Reka River, which carved its way over the millennia through a gorge beneath Škocjan village.

Planning tip: Aside from underground treasures, the Karst’s deep green hills are rich in fruits, ruby-red teran wine, pršut (dry-cured ham), and lots of picturesque villages with old stone churches.

Best for soaking up the sun

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, Piran is the spot to soak up the rays, splash in the Adriatic and discover a unique destination along the country’s tiny 47km long coastline.

Often called the most beautiful town along the Slovenian Adriatic, Piran predates the Romans but got its present look in the Middle Ages as part of the Venetian Empire. Get a panoramic overview by climbing the stairs to the top of the bell tower, next to the 17th-century baroque Cathedral of St George . From here, you'll be able to see three countries at once.

Come down from your perch to Tartinijev Trg , the town’s nerve center, before heading to the Mediadom Pyrhani , a museum that offers a multimedia take on Piran history. But don't forget the reason you’ve come – a 15-minute walk takes you to Fiesa Beach for your cooling plunge into the sea.

Planning tip: The nearby Strunjan Landscape Park , east of Piran, offers two secluded (and harder-to-reach) beaches: Moon Bay and Bele Skale.

8. Goriška Brda

Best for sampling wines

Straddling the Italian border, Goriška Brda (or simply “Brda") is an absolute charmer: rolling hills lined with grapevines and sun-kissed orchards topped with small settlements and churches. The area is one of Europe's best-kept secrets. 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 paradise for cyclists, the hills of Goriška Brda are home to dozens of scenic trails that are great for exploring on two wheels. Wineries to look out for include  Klet Brda , the largest wine producer in Slovenia, with a well-stocked wine shop at its Dobrovo estate and excellent daily tours,  Vinoteka Brda ,   and Edi Simčič , a third-generation family estate with tastings almost every day. 

Planning tip: Like elsewhere in Slovenia, most local wine producers require visitors to call or book ahead to arrange a tasting.

This article was first published Jan 5, 2022 and updated May 2, 2024.

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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.

Emily Saladino

Mark Ellwood

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 :

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

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).

More Beautiful Places You’ll Love

• Beautiful places in Croatia
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• Beautiful cities in Romania
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• Beautiful Italian islands
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Most beautiful places in Slovenia: Share it on Pinterest

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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ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

15 most beautiful cities in Slovenia (+ towns + villages)

Last updated on November 6, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Discover 15 of the most beautiful cities, towns and villages in Slovenia: charming old centers, castles, rivers and surrounding mountains… They offer great experiences! Below is my guide to help you decide where to go in Slovenia: Map, tips and photos of best cities, beautiful towns and charming villages.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Slovenia:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Slovenia: DiscoverCars

My favorite adventure from Bovec: Kayak on the Soca River

My favorite excursion from Ljubljana: Postojna Cave and Predjama castle

My favorite places to stay:

• Lubljana , central – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: Lesar Hotel Angel
• Bled , iconic – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: Vila Bled
• Bovec , outdoorsy – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: Dobra Vila
• Piran , historic – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: Hotel Piran

Most beautiful cities in Slovenia – Map & Facts

In the article below I will introduce all my favorite cities, towns and villages in Slovenia. My criteria area:

• Charm 
• Historical buildings

My top 3 best towns in Slovenia are:

• Ljubljana – this is one of my favorite capital cities in Europe – There is such a great vibe, and you can easily walk around
• Piran – its location on a peninsula, its great views and its history create a unique place 
• Skofja Loka – this town has a great balance of everything, in my opinion. It is a great first stop from the airport to get acquainted with Slovenia.

But there are many more listed below in this article.

Largest Towns

If you are wondering:

• Ljubljana – around 300,000 inhabitants
• Maribor – around 100,000 inhabitants
• Kranj – around 40,000 inhabitants
• Celje – around 40,000 inhabitants
• Koper – around 25,000 inhabitants

Cities and towns in Slovenia – Map

And below is a map to help you get oriented and located all those towns:

All my favorite towns, as well as amazing natural places, are included (with GPS coordinates, map and planning info) in my travel guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Slovenia road trip :

Plan your dream trip in Slovenia thanks to my guide

• 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 100+ pre-selected locations
• 16+ extra ideas
• GPS + info to make the most of your time
• 190+ original photos to help you choose

2 largest cities in Slovenia

#1 – ljubljana.

Why I love it

Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia. It is large but not too big. This city has a lot of charm with a castle on a hill, a river and the mountains in the distance. Strolling the pedestrian city center is so relaxing!

Best things to do:

• Stroll in the old town
• Enjoy the views from the building Skyscraper
• Relax on a river cruise
• Eat ice cream – there are so many shops and flavors!
• Have fun at the Museum of illusions or the museum of puppets
• Hunt for dragons
• Learn more on my article about Ljubljana

Where to stay

• Luxury and cosy – Lesar hotel in the pedestrian area –  See photos and availability
• Modern design with castle views at Cubo Hotel –  See photos and availability
• Unique – enjoy a night in one of the cells of the old prison at Hotel Celica Art – See photos and availability
• Or check out the best rated accommodations in Ljubljana

#2 – Maribor

At first glance, Maribor does not look the most welcoming. But stick with it. Go to the center and enjoy walking all around. There is a great vibe in the city, and it is an easy gateway to wineries, mountains and Croatia.

• Climb Pyramid Hill for beautiful views of the city
• Visit the castle, the cathedral and the Franciscan church
• Walk along the riverside
• Learn more on my article about Maribor

• LUXURY – Hotel City Maribor is in downtown by the Drava River with very spacious rooms – Check out photos and availability
• MODERN  – If you are looking for very modern design, consider Hotel Maribor –  Check out photos and availability
• LOCATION  – Hotel Lent offers great location for price and intriguing decor –  Check out photos and availability
• BUDGET  – The Guesthouse Anna is centrally located with clean rooms and a friendly team –  Check out photos and availability
• or check out the best rated accommodations in Maribor

Need to rent a car in Slovenia?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

10 Most beautiful towns in Slovenia

Piran is one of the most fascinating towns in Slovenia. It has had a long history with the nearby salt pans and used to be a rich city. Plus, its location on a tiny peninsula creates many amazing angles to look at it.

• Explore the Piran Fortification Walls
• Visit the charming Piran Monastery
• Climb to the top of the Piran Bell Tower
• Watch sunset on the waterfront
• Learn more on my article about Piran and the coast

• IN THE CENTER – Guesthouse PachaMama Pleasant Stay has small but modern rooms (many old buildings in Piran) – Check out photos and availability
• SEA VIEW IN PIRAN – Hotel Piran with fantastic sea views right by Tartini square and with cozy rooms – Check out photos and availability
• or  check out the best rated accommodations in Piran

#2 – Skofja Loka

Skofja Loka is just the perfect size and balance for a half day stop on your way to Bled.  The typical orange roofs, the castle, the museum, the river… It is a pleasure to explore the old medieval town.

• Visit the castle and its great museum to learn about life in the area
• Stroll in the city center and admire the river
• Enjoy the relaxing vibe of the old town
• Learn more on my article about Skofja Loka

• OLD TOWN – right by the river, Hotel Garni has a convenient location – Check out photos and availability
• MODERN – a little bit further (but not far) is the Turisezm Koka B&B with sauna and jacuzzi – Check out photos and availability
• GREAT FOR FAMILY – The Mini Hotel is built on high grounds, offering a garden and clear views of the region – Check out photos and availability
• or  check out the best rated accommodations in Skofja Loka

The town itself is not the best, it is very touristy. However, its location is unbeatable: right on the shore of the famous Lake Bled. From the town you can see the mountains, the lake and the castle right on top of a cliff. It is picture-perfect!

• Climb Mala Ojstrica at sunrise for amazing views of the lake opposite the town shore (picture above)
• Climb to the castle and enjoy the views from its fortifications
• Take a Pletna boat to the Island
• Explore the magnificent Vintgar Gorge
• Learn more on my article about the Lake Bled area

• CHARM AND CHARACTER  – Old Bled House with a charming country decor, only a couple of minutes from the lake –  Check out photos and availability
• LUXURY BY THE LAKE  – Grand Hotel Toplice is located right on the lake, difficult to do better in terms of location! –  Check out photos and availability
• BALCONIES WITH VIEWS – The Best Western is very close to the shore and has rooms with balconies overlooking the lake – Check out photos and availability
• LUXURY & QUIET  – Relax at Vila Bled right on the lake but away from the crowds. Quite a romantic setting – Check out photos and availability
• LAKE BLED HOSTEL –  Back Hostel is not as central as the other options but it has fantastic reviews and hostel prices – Check out photos and availability
• ORIGINAL GLAMPING – further away from the lake but quite an experience! It gets booked very fast  –  Check out photos and availability
• or  check out the best rated accommodations in Bled

Izola is a charming fishing town with a great vibe and good seafood restaurants. The smallest of the towns used to be an island. In fact, the name Izola means island…

• Get up to the Izola Bell Tower
• Relax at the beach
• Explore the marina
• Admire the view with Italy in the background

• IZOLA SEA VIEWS – Hotel Marina to appreciate the fishing port and marina – Check out latest prices and availability
• or  check out the best rated accommodations in Izola

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Celje is so underrated. It is a great town with mountains and rivers. Plus, the castle is one of the best castles in Slovenia with incredible views of the region.

• Go up to the castle and enjoy the views over the town and the mountains
• Explore the city center and riverside
• Enter the visitor center to see the remains of the old Roman town
• Learn more on my article about Celje

• IN THE CITY  – to stay in the old town, you can sleep at Hotel Evropa, on the main square –  Check out photos and availability
• BUDGET – for a cheaper option, the MCC Hostel is also conveniently located in the center – Check out photos and availability
• B&B – for something smaller and cozy not too far from the center, consider the Bed & Breakfast Dvorec – Check out photos and availability
• or check out the best rated accommodations in Celje

Ptuj is the oldest recorded city in Slovenia. There is evidence that it has been inhabited since the late Stone Age. Today it just feels so peaceful. The old center has a lot of charm with the river at its foot.

• Enjoy the views from the wall around the castle
• Visit the castle and its museum. Don’t miss the armory!
• Enjoy the views from the river and bridges
• Learn more on my article about Ptuj

• FAMOUS hotel – Hotel Mitra’s first written records date back to 1777…  Check out photos and availability
• or ch eck out the best rated accommodations in Ptuj

#7 – Novo Mesto

Why I love it –  When a town has a river, I often love it. Plus, here it is very lush with charming houses

Best things to do –  Stroll around the old center and visit the Dolenjska Museum

Where to stay –  check out the best rated accommodations in Novo Mesto

#8 – Kamnik

Why I love it –  Mostly because of the surrounding mountains… 

Best things to do –  Relax with views of the mountains (go to the castle ruins for some of the best views) and head to the magnificent valleys around Logarska Dolina , not far away.

Where to stay –  check out the best rated accommodations in Kamnik

Best things to do 

• Go explore nature around the town – Bovec is at the center of the Soca Valley ( see my guide to the area )
• Enjoy water activities on the Soca River
• Discover Slap Virje, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Slovenia

Where to stay –  check out the best rated accommodations in Bovec

#10 – Koper

Why I love it –  it is quite different from the other towns. It is the main harbor in Slovenia with interesting buildings

• Visit the cathedral
• Go up the bell tower for great views
• Stroll the narrow streets of the old center
• Learn more in my article about Piran and the coast

Where to stay –  check out the best rated accommodations in Koper

3 Most charming villages in Slovenia

#1 – smartno – most beautiful village.

The Brda region is a perfect mixture of rolling hills, trees, lines of vines and old villages.  It is often overlooked compared to other regions of Slovenia, but it is absolutely charming. And Smartno is the jewel at its heart.

• Explore the old village
• Enjoy the view from the Gonjace tower not far from it
• Learn more on my article about the Brda region

Where to stay –    check out the best rated accommodations in Smartno

#2 – Kanal ob Soci

Why I love it – perfectly niched in the mountains with colorful houses, the river, rocks and more…

Where to stay –  check out the best rated accommodations in Kanal ob Soci

#3 – Most na Soci

Why I love it – peaceful with the great colors of the Soca River

Where to stay –   check out the best rated accommodations in Most na Soci

Want to see more of the best Slovenia has to offer?

• Best things to do in Slovenia – read article
• Most beautiful landscapes in Slovenia – read article
• Best Castles in Slovenia – read article
• Best waterfalls in Slovenia – read article
• Best off the beaten path attractions in Slovenia – read article

Planning a trip to Slovenia?  

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

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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

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10 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on November 2, 2023

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 8 Cities and Towns you Must Visit in Slovenia

Are you planning a visit to Slovenia? If this is your first time in the landlocked country in the heart of Europe, you’re in for quite the surprise! This small country is full of great cities and towns to visit, so be sure to allow a couple of weeks to see all Slovenia has to offer. To help you plan your visit, these are the places you must visit in Slovenia!

Places you must visit in Slovenia

Ljubljana, slovenia.

The capital city of Slovenia has such an old-world appeal that it almost doesn’t feel like a city at all. Ljubljana is incredibly picturesque and full of vibrance. The summer months bring a lot of locals outside on to the alfresco dining tables that line the river, as well as hidden gardens and terraces behind closed doors. Be sure to wander your way up to the castle for a complete view over the city below. And if you’re looking for day trips and adventures to enjoy from the capital city, there are endless Slovenia Activities on offer to enjoy from Ljubljana.

Kranj, Slovenia

Just a short drive from Ljubljana is Kranj, Slovenia’s fourth largest city that still maintains a small town feel. The kokra river runs through the city and with the mountains as a backdrop, this city skyline is one of the most photogenic in all of Slovenia. The old town is a protected cultural monument but the real beauty of this city is the underground tunnel system you can explore at great length.

Skofja Loka, Slovenia

Skofja Loka is just a short car drive from Ljubljana and has a much more quaint, charming appeal. This sleepy town sits on the Sora river and has an imposing caste overlooking the town from above. This is the perfect day trip from Ljubljana and will take only 1-2 hours to explore.

Bled, Slovenia

There’s hardly a traveller who would visit Slovenia without stopping at Bled to see the famous Lake Bled . Outside of the lake, there is much more to explore in Bled – including nearby Vintgar Gorge and neighbouring towns. Of all the places you must visit in Slovenia, this has to be on your list!

Piran, Slovenia

Piran is Slovenia’s resort city on the Adriatic coast. The town is as picturesque as a postcard, especially with its strongly influenced Venetian architecture. Tartini Square is the heart and soul of this city and one of the liveliest squares on the coast.

A small town in the southwest of Slovenia, Postojna has long been famous for its impressive underground cave system and the nearby Predjama castle built in to the cliff.

This small city in the southeast of the country is surrounded by the Krka River, making it an idyllic town from above. This part of the country is much less visited by tourists and thus Novo Mesto is a great destination if you’re looking to meet more locals and feel like one yourself.

Over to you! Where are you visiting in Slovenia this summer?

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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21 Enchanting Destinations You Don’t Want to Miss in Slovenia!

Posted on June 30, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on August 14, 2023

If you’re looking for an incredible adventure with beautiful landscapes, charming cities, and unique attractions, then Slovenia is the place to visit. From mountains and lakes to hilltop castles and ancient churches, here are 21 of the best places to explore in this stunning country as shared by Goya Galeotta, a lover of all things Slovenia .

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Europe , look no further than Slovenia. Nestled in the heart of Central Europe, between Italy , Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, Slovenia is a country of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and charming towns that offers an incredible wealth of attractions and experiences.

From the stunning Julian Alps to the idyllic coastline of the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia offers a diverse range of attractions that will leave you in awe.

You can take in its majestic mountain ranges and pristine lakes that hug the Julian Alps or discover spectacular gorges full of rare wildlife. Slovenia is an outdoor paradise with endless possibilities for exploration.

Or, you can stroll through romantic old towns along castle-studded hillsides , explore old ruins, or get lost in its quaint villages or vibrant cities , each with a unique culture and cuisine.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other, an adventure through nature with friends or family, or simply need some time alone in one of the most beautiful places imaginable, Slovenia will not fail to capture your heart.

To help you plan your trip of a lifetime, here are the 21 best places to visit in Slovenia that truly showcase the beauty and allure of this enchanting country!

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The most iconic destination in all of Slovenia, and one of the most romantic spots in Europe , Bled — or more specifically Lake Bled — is known for its serene beauty and breathtaking vistas .

Surrounded by mountains and forests, the lake is home to a tiny island in the center, where you can take a rowboat from shore. 

Once on the island, you can climb up to Bled Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the lake, and explore the castle’s museum, admiring panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

• Don’t forget: To indulge in a slice of Bled’s famous cream cake, known as Blejska kremšnita (or Bled cream cake).
• For solo travelers: Head to the Castle on top of the hill overlooking Lake Bled for a relaxing and peaceful hike, and treat yourself to a selfie with fantastic views!
• For couples: Take a traditional gondola-style boat ride around the lake and make a wish at the Church of St. Mary’s, located on its island in the center. Ring the bell that is believed to bring good luck to everyone who rings it!
• For families: Visit the Bled Adventure Park for some fun activities, such as zip lining and climbing.

Bottom line: No visit to Slovenia is complete without experiencing the enchanting beauty of Lake Bled. With its emerald-green waters, picturesque island with a church, and a medieval castle perched atop a cliff, Lake Bled is a true fairytale destination.

#2: Ljubljana

Ljubljana , Slovenia’s capital city and one of the most picturesque cities in Europe, is a vibrant mix of culture, art, and historical sites that make it a must-visit destination . You can take a stroll — it is the perfect place to explore on foot! — and explore the many galleries, shops, and cafes lining its small cobblestone streets before heading to one of the nearby restaurants for some delicious local fare.

• Don’t forget: To visit the Ljubljana Castle, stroll along the picturesque Ljubljanica River to check out the iconic Tromostovje (the Triple Bridge) and Zmajski Most (The Dragon Bridge) and stop by the colorful Central Market (especially on the days of Open Kitchen, or Odprta kuhna ).
• For solo travelers: Take a (self-)guided, walking tour of the city and explore the Old Town’s charming narrow alleys and squares, lined with cafes, galleries, and shops. Or go for a stand-up paddleboarding tour to meet fellow travelers while exploring the city from a different angle!
• For couples: Head to Ljubljana Castle for a romantic sunset stroll around its grounds or enjoy a romantic walk along the Ljubljanica River at night, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy a glass of wine or grab dinner at one of the many restaurants (like the Michelin starred Atelje ).
• For families: Stop by Ljubljana Castle for some breathtaking views of the city and beyond, visit some of Ljubljana’s family-friendly attractions (House of Experiments, Mini City), or simply go for a dragon hunt in the city with your little ones — Ljubljana is full of dragon figures and statues!

Bottom line: With its picturesque old town, countless cultural attractions , vibrant markets, and stunning architecture, it’s easy to see why Ljubljana is one of the most beloved cities in Europe. Whether you’re looking for romantic walks or a family outing, Ljubljana offers plenty to do and see!

#3: Škocjan Caves

These breathtaking caves are some of the most beautiful in Europe and one of the must-see highlights for anyone visiting Slovenia. Walking across dramatic underground bridges as you discover one of the largest underground canyons in the world — stretching over 6 km of passages — featuring awe-inspiring caves, stalactites, and a rushing underground river is an experience like no other.

• Don’t forget: To marvel at the immense underground chambers, underground rivers, and stunning stalactite formations that make this cave system a natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage site .
• For solo travelers: Take a guided tour of the caves, exploring their many passageways and learning about their history.
• For couples: Set up a romantic picnic lunch at one of the nearby locations, before or after your visit to the stunning cave system.
• For families: Check out the Museum Collections and Education Trail that will keep the whole family entertained.

Bottom line: Škocjan Caves are an incredible natural wonder that must be seen to be believed. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a fun family outing, the stunning beauty and history of this magical cave system will take your breath away. Plus, you can easily visit them on a day trip from Ljubljana.

From Venetian architecture to its seaside promenade, Piran, a coastal town situated on the Slovenian Riviera, is one of the country’s most beloved towns, and the perfect spot for soaking up some sun and history .

• Don’t forget: To bring back home some Piran salt!
• For solo travelers: Spend the day exploring its cobblestone streets, admiring the old churches, and taking in the stunning views from the town’s seaside promenade.
• For couples: Take a break from your adventures — wandering through narrow medieval streets, admiring the Venetian architecture, and soaking in the Mediterranean atmosphere while enjoying stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, that is — to enjoy a lunch together with an unbeatable view of Piran’s skyline.
• For families: Take a boat tour of the town’s harbor, visit one of the nearby beaches, and enjoy a day at the seaside with the whole family. Or, try your hand at becoming a saltpan worker for a day !

Bottom line: This stunning coastal town is known as one of the most picturesque spots in Slovenia , with its narrow streets and Venetian architecture making it the perfect spot for an unforgettable getaway – no matter who you are traveling with!

#5: Postojna Cave

As one of the largest and most famous karst caves in the world, Postojna Cave is the perfect place to embark on an underground adventure . Here, you can marvel at the incredible stalactite and stalagmite formations as you journey through this subterranean wonderland.

• Don’t forget: To check out the native olms (also known as “baby dragons”).
• For solo travelers: Take a guided tour of the cave, exploring its many chambers and taking in the breathtaking views.
• For couples & families: The adults will enjoy taking in the views and oddities (like the wonderful Murano-glass chandeliers hanging from the ceiling), while the kids will have a fabulous time aboard the famous Postojna Cave Railway — the first cave railway in the world!

Bottom line: Postojna Cave is an unforgettable experience well worth a day trip while in Slovenia — from the stunning underground to one-of-a-kind attractions like its railway, Postojna Cave is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

#6: Triglav National Park

No trip to Slovenia would be complete without immersing yourself in the pristine beauty of Triglav National Park , Slovenia’s only national park. Here, you can hike through breathtaking alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and cascading waterfalls , with Mount Triglav, the country’s highest peak, as the majestic backdrop.

• Don’t forget: To check out one of the many attractions on offer here. From canoeing, walking trails, wildlife spotting, and mountain climbing to cave exploration — there’s something for everyone in Triglav National Park!
• For solo travelers: Take some time to explore the park’s many hiking trails, discovering hidden gems and admiring the stunning views of Triglav National Park.
• For couples: Enjoy a romantic picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery, or a sunset kayak ride for an unforgettable experience. If you are up for the challenge (and are an experienced duo of climbers), put on your climbing gear and head up Mount Triglav for an unforgettable experience… and for the most unique view in all of Slovenia!
• For families: Take a guided rafting tour of one of the area’s rivers and get up close to some of nature’s hidden wonders. Or, rent a kayak for an unforgettable adventure (make sure to wear safety gear!).

Bottom line: With its unspoiled natural beauty, stunning mountain scenery, and countless outdoor activities, Triglav National Park is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Slovenia. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or a family adventure, this national park will leave a lasting impression. Plus, if you’re short on time, you can easily visit the park on a day trip from Blend or from Ljubljana .

#7: Škofja Loka

This beautifully preserved medieval city is a true hidden gem in Slovenia. You can explore its cobblestone streets and take a stroll along the Sava River while taking in this charming town.

• Don’t forget: To explore the old city walls and castle ruins.
• For solo travelers: Take a guided tour to learn about Škofja Loka’s history, or just take some time to explore it on your own.
• For couples & families: Spend the day at Škofja Loka Castle , where you can explore its beautiful gardens and take a tour of the castle. Afterwards, enjoy some souvenir shopping or sample some of the local cuisine while admiring beautiful views of the city!

Bottom line: With its charming cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and picturesque views of the Sava River, Škofja Loka is a must-see for any traveler visiting Slovenia. Whether you’re looking to explore on your own or just take in the beauty with family and friends, this city will leave a lasting impression.

#8: Logar Valley

Escape to the picturesque Logar Valley, a glacial alpine valley known for its pristine natural beauty. Hike through lush forests, admire stunning waterfalls, and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you explore this idyllic corner of Slovenia.

• Don’t forget: To check out Solčavsko, an area of the Logar Valley known for its quaint alpine villages and hiking trails.
• For solo travelers: Take a hike through the valleys, admiring the stunning views as you go.  Or, take some time to explore on your own and get lost in nature’s beauty.
• For couples: Enjoy a romantic picnic amidst the rolling hills of Logar Valley, or take a leisurely stroll through one of the area’s stunning alpine villages.
• For families: Go for a swim in one of Logar Valley’s crystal-clear lakes, followed by some fun outdoor activities like biking.

Bottom line: With its pristine natural beauty and endless outdoor activities, Logar Valley is the perfect place to escape for a few days. Whether you’re looking for a solo adventure or some quality time with family and friends, this charming alpine valley has something for everyone. 

#9: Velika Planina

Escape to the highlands and experience the unique beauty of Velika Planina. This pastoral highland plateau is known for its picturesque wooden huts, traditional herdsmen culture, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. 

• Don’t forget: To Immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings, hike along scenic trails , and experience the timeless beauty of this alpine gem.
• For solo travelers: Spend some time exploring the plateau and taking in the breathtaking views and discovering hidden gems.
• For couples: Take the cable car ride (from Kamniška Bistrica) to the top of Velika Planina around sunset for breathtaking sunkissed mountain views.
• For families: Take a guided tour of the local herdsmen’s hut to learn all about this unique alpine culture.

Bottom line: With its stunning alpine views, unique culture, and wide array of activities on offer, Velika Planina is a must-see for any traveler visiting Slovenia. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax in nature’s beauty, this highland plateau has something for everyone.

#10: Maribor

Slovenia’s second-largest city is full of culture and history, with plenty of vibrant nightlife hotspots. Enjoy a meander through the city’s beautiful Mediterranean-style streets while indulging in some local delicacies.

• Don’t forget: To stroll along the charming Lent district by the Drava River, and, if you’re feeling thirsty, drop by the Old Vine House for a nice glass of wine.
• For solo travelers: Take a stroll around the city and explore its many sights – from museums to cafes.
• For couples: Go on a Maribor food and/or wine tour .
• For families: Enjoy a family day out on Pohorje mountain, where you can take the cable car up to the top and explore the area’s stunning nature reserve.

Bottom line: Maribor is the perfect destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in true Slovenian culture, away from the hustle and bustle of Ljubljana. From its picturesque views to its unique cuisine, Maribor offers a captivating glimpse into Slovenia’s vibrant lifestyle and traditions.

Discover the oldest town in Slovenia, Ptuj , with its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming old town. Visit Ptuj Castle, stroll along the banks of the Drava River, and immerse yourself in the town’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene.

• Don’t forget: To check out the events calendar before your visit to make sure your visit coincides with one of the many festivals in this enchanting town.
• For solo travelers: Spend an afternoon exploring the town’s many historical sights, from churches to castles.
• For couples: Take a romantic walk along the river and visit one of Ptuj’s many wine cellars (including the oldest in Slovenia!) and wine bars.
• For families: Take the kids to the castle complex for a fun day out. Afterwards, head over to one of the nearby outdoor markets for some delicious food and souvenir shopping – perfect for keeping the whole family entertained! 

Bottom line: With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural offerings, Ptuj is a must-see for any traveler visiting Slovenia. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax and soak in the town’s unique atmosphere, this medieval town will leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

#12: Bohinj

Located in Triglav National Park, Bohinj is surrounded by crystal-clear lakes and rolling hills that are ideal for swimming, hiking, and mountain biking adventures.

• Don’t forget: Take a refreshing dip in Lake Bohinj or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding.
• For solo travelers: Take a self-guided tour of the area and explore its natural beauty.
• For couples: Get away from it all and spend a romantic evening stargazing under the night sky.
• For families: Embark on an outdoor adventure together and explore Bohinj’s stunning lakes, forests, and meadows. Afterwards, take a break and enjoy some quality family time at one of the nearby cafes.

Bottom line: Bohinj is the perfect place to reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of Slovenia’s alpine landscape. Whether you’re looking for a solo adventure or some quality family time, this stunning destination has something for everyone.

Slovenia’s fourth (or by some records) third-largest city, and often hailed as the city of royalty, Celje boasts a wealth of archaeological marvels, a contemporary urban atmosphere, and an eco-friendly essence at its core (complete with a town forest)!

• Don’t forget: To learn about Celje’s past at the Castle Complex, and explore its many parks and gardens.
• For solo travelers: Take a short trip to the world’s first beer fountain located in Žalec, which is just a 10-minute drive away from the city. Operating from April to October, this one-of-a-kind attraction not only quenches your thirst for distinctive brews but also hosts numerous engaging events making this an extraordinary experience that combines creativity, culture, and camaraderie.
• For couples: Enjoy a romantic evening walk through Celje’s Old Town, with its cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and unique architecture. Or opt for an afternoon getaway to Šmartinsko Lake.
• For families: Take the kids to Celje Castle Complex or Adventure Park Celjska Koča for a fun day out!

Bottom line: Celje, a Slovenian treasure, combines archaeological wonders, urban vibes, and eco-friendly charm. Discover its rich history, unique experiences like the world’s first beer fountain, and captivating attractions for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

#14: Kranjska Gora

This charming alpine village is located near the Austrian and Italian borders and is home to some of Slovenia’s most stunning mountain scenery. Spend some time exploring the nearby ski resorts or take a ride on the cable car for a bird’s eye view of this picturesque area.

• Don’t forget: To drive to the Vrsic Pass where you can enjoy a beautiful panorama of the Julian Alps and visit the Russian Chapel.
• For solo travelers: Take advantage of your solo time and explore Slovenia’s stunning natural beauty. If visiting in winter, enjoy a peaceful afternoon admiring the mountain views and explore some of Kranjska Gora’s ski resorts.
• For couples: Go on a hike around the Julian Alps or visit Lake Jasna for the most idyllic view.
• For families: Have the whole family try their hand at winter sports and go on a ride on the cable car for an incredible bird’s eye view.

Bottom line: Kranjska Gora offers breathtaking landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities for travelers of all ages. From exploring the ski resorts to admiring the panoramic views, this alpine village is an ideal choice for those looking to experience Slovenia’s natural beauty in any season.

#15: Sečovlje Salina Nature Park

Sečovlje Salina Nature Park is a protected natural area located on the Slovenian coast near the border with Croatia. The park covers approximately 650 hectares and is renowned for its traditional salt production, unique flora, and fauna.

This important wetland habitat is home to numerous bird species , including migratory birds, and provides a vital sanctuary for many plants and animals adapted to the saline environment.

• For any traveler / Don’t forget: To learn about the history and techniques of salt production, observe the rich biodiversity, and enjoy the serene beauty of this remarkable coastal landscape.

Bottom line: Sečovlje Salina Nature Park is a haven for wildlife watchers, bird-watchers, and nature-lovers alike. The park is an integral part of Slovenia’s cultural and natural heritage, with its unique salt production methods that have been practiced for centuries. Whether you’re looking to explore the stunning coastal scenery or observe the diverse flora and fauna, Sečovlje Salina Nature Park has something for everyone.

Slovenia’s largest port city is full of Venetian architecture, vibrant markets, and plenty of shopping opportunities. Take a stroll along its seaside promenade or check out one of the nearby wineries for some local produce.

• Don’t forget: To explore the unique Venetian architecture and visit one of the nearby wineries.
• For solo travelers: Take a tour around Koper’s charming Old Town and admire its many historic sights.
• For couples: Enjoy a romantic walk along the promenade ( Promenada ) or join a wine-tasting tour that will whisk you away to the charming village of Marezige, celebrated for its unique wine fountain. Unwind and indulge in the pleasure of sampling exquisite local wines directly from the fountain, while taking in the mesmerizing vistas of the Adriatic Sea and lush vineyards.
• For families: Walk through Koper’s vibrant markets and explore the city’s unique Venetian architecture.

Bottom line: Koper is full of history, culture, and plenty of things to do. From exploring its unique Venetian architecture to tasting some delicious local food, this port city provides a wonderful experience for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.

#17: Velenje

This beautiful city is home to stunning lakes, parks, and historic buildings that make it a must-see spot in Slovenia. Make sure to take a look at the iconic castle before heading to one of the many nearby restaurants for some delicious local dishes.

• Don’t forget:  To visit Velenje Castle, one of the best-preserved Renaissance castles in Slovenia and the city’s most famous monument, and explore the nearby hills of Matkov Kot.
• For solo travelers: Take a walk around Lake Velenje – its crystal clear waters and surrounding flora make it one of the most picturesque spots in all of Slovenia.
• For couples: Explore Šmartno ob Paki’s Tourist Wine Trail , just a 15-minute drive from Velenje. Wander through picturesque vineyards, admire stunning viewpoints, and visit wine cellars and wineries while discovering the region’s traditional winemaking methods.
• For families: Take the kids to the hills of Pohorje for a fun day out – try your hand at mountain biking or take a leisurely walk around the area.

Bottom line: From its iconic castle to its stunning lake, Velenje is a must-see spot in Slovenia. Whether you’re looking for adventurous family activities or romantic evening strolls, this city has something for everyone.

#18: Vintgar Gorge

Marvel at the natural wonder of Vintgar Gorge, a stunning ravine carved by the Radovna River near Bled — home to several waterfalls, cliffs, and narrow paths along both sides of the rapids. Walk along wooden walkways that cling to the steep cliffs, and be captivated by the turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls.

• Don’t forget: To enjoy the views from all angles while walking along the wooden walkways of Vintgar Gorge.
• For solo travelers: Go for an early morning walk, when you can experience the canyon in its fullest beauty without crowds.
• For couples: Explore Vintgar Gorge at sunset and admire the beautiful colors cast over this peaceful haven.
• For families: Take the kids to explore the area and keep an eye out for local wildlife.

Bottom line: Vintgar Gorge is a must-see spot in Slovenia, offering breathtaking landscapes and plenty of opportunities to explore its natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to hike, take a leisurely stroll, or simply admire its spectacular scenery, this ravine is sure to leave you mesmerized.

#19: Predjama Castle

Perched high up on a cliff, Predjama Castle is an impressive sight to behold. Not only is it one of the largest castles in Slovenia, but it’s also the world’s largest cave castle. From its strategic location within a steep hillside, visitors can explore the inner chambers of this medieval fortress and uncover its many secrets.

• Don’t forget: Explore the castle’s fascinating history, legends, and hidden passageways while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• For solo travelers: Explore the castle and its many chambers, taking in every detail of this impressive structure.
• For couples: Visit the castle at sunset and admire the beautiful colors cast over this majestic building.
• For families: Let the kids explore Predjama Castle and its many chambers while teaching them about its history and the stories of those who lived there.

Bottom line: Predjama Castle is an impressive and unique sight to behold. Not only does it offer stunning panoramic views, but it also has a fascinating history that makes it well worth the visit. Whether you’re looking for an educational excursion or simply want to marvel at its beauty, this castle won’t disappoint.

#20: Kobarid

Kobarid is a beautiful Slovenian town located in the Julian Alps, near the border of Italy. In addition to offering stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities, it is also home to some of the best restaurants in Slovenia, so be sure to take a day trip to Kobarid for a culinary tour of this beautiful region.

• Don’t forget: To explore the Kobarid Museum and learn about the history of World War I in this region.
• For solo travelers: Go for a hike and explore the town’s stunning alpine landscape, or take advantage of one of Kobarid’s many outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and more.
• For couples: Enjoy a romantic evening walk among the alpine meadows or treat yourself to a Michelin-starred dinner at Hiša Franko, which also doubles as a guesthouse — so there is no need to decide on a designated driver!
• For families: Let the kids explore some of the hiking trails and take a tour of the museum to learn about WWI.

Bottom line: Kobarid is one of Slovenia’s best-kept secrets, boasting stunning alpine landscapes, fascinating museums, and delicious restaurants for all to enjoy.

#21: Portorož

Last but not least… Portorož is a stunning seaside town located on the Slovenian coast. Known for its crystal clear waters, golden beaches, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, it’s no wonder why Portorož is one of the best places to visit in Slovenia.

• Don’t forget: Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Adriatic Sea, take a stroll along its promenade full of restaurants and shops, or simply relax on one of its beautiful beaches.
• For solo travelers: Explore the local attractions and enjoy a relaxing walk along their promenade.
• For couples: Explore some of the local attractions together, enjoy a romantic meal in one of the many restaurants, or relax at one of their luxurious spas.
• For families: There’s something for all the family members at Portorož, from leisurely walks along the promenade to beach days and boat rides. Kids will also love exploring some of the local attractions and enjoying the lively family-friendly nightlife.

Bottom line: With crystal clear waters and plenty of activities, Portorož is one of the best places to visit in Slovenia. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family – this stunning seaside town is sure to provide a wonderful and memorable experience for all.

Travel Tips/Things to Know About Visiting Slovenia

• Best Time to Visit Slovenia: Slovenia has a pleasant climate with four distinct seasons. The ideal time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer (June-August) is perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the coast but can be more crowded. Winter (November-March) is a great time to visit if you’re looking for some snow-filled activities.
• Currency: Slovenia uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.
• Language: Slovenian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Slovenian phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
• Nature and Outdoor Activities: Slovenia is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on visiting the stunning Lake Bled, Triglav National Park, and the Soča River Valley. Hiking, cycling, and water sports are popular activities in the country.
• Slovenian Cuisine: Be sure to try local dishes like potica (a rolled pastry) and žlikrofi (potato dumplings). Pair your meal with some Slovenian wine or craft beer.
• Book in advance: To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, it’s advisable to book accommodations, rental cars, and popular attractions or tours in advance, especially during peak season when availability can be limited. This will help you secure your preferred options and avoid any last-minute hassles. Having once been quoted 4000 euros for a last minute one-week car rental, I cannot stress this enough!

Final Thoughts: 21 Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

Slovenia, with its diverse natural wonders, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage, offers an abundance of highlights that will captivate every traveler. From the fairytale beauty of Lake Bled to the enchanting coastal town of Piran and the majestic Julian Alps, Slovenia beckons with its timeless allure.

So pack your bags, embrace the beauty of Slovenia, and create lasting memories as you explore these 21 best places to visit in Slovenia. 

Happy travels! 

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35 Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia – An Epic Check List

This list for the most beautiful places in Slovenia was dangerously looking at being endless.

No, really, for a relatively small country, the number of gorgeous places to visit in Slovenia feels long.

Because Slovenia is a country full of jaw-dropping landscapes – surreal scenes from fairytales if I may add.

Snow-capped peaks, glacial turquoise lakes, splendid gorges, waterfalls, forests home to colourful Alpine wildflowers and woodlands, enchanting stone castles set amidst post-card perfect towns, spectacular Adriatic coast, fairytale villages appearing out-of-the-world for a traveller, incredibly delicious cheese, wine, exciting history and festivals – Slovenia is a complete package.

I’m not exaggerating at all. And anyone that’s been to this country will most likely agree with the use of so many adjectives!

Surrounded by other more well-known neighbours Italy, Hungary, Croatia and Austria mean lesser attention to this jewel in Europe, but that’s a kind of blessing for Slovenia – as it provides non-commercialized experiences for traveler looking for a decadent holiday.

Slovenia is also one of the countries that you can explore during all the seasons – as each offer different and splendid things to do and activities from hiking to skiing to rafting to camping.

In this post, get ready to fall in love virtually through this ultimate list of the most beautiful places in Slovenia – I’m sure you will find many picks.

Indeed, it would be best if you had more than once to visit all the attractions in Slovenia, so don’t forget to bookmark this post.

How to use? These places in Slovenia are categorized into two sets of natural wonders and one set of cities and towns. Feel free to go around and revisit what you like.

MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN SLOVENIA – FAIRYTALE VILLAGES & VALLEYS

In this section, you will find the gorges, waterfalls and fairytale villages that are all some of the most beautiful places in Slovenia you should visit. 

If you love outdoors and enjoy nature, you might find a lot of places, even a few hidden gems in Slovenia.

KOBARID & DREŽINCA

Kobarid, a town in the Upper Soča Valley region bordering Italy, is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia if you are looking for a quiet hamlet amidst nature.

Kobarid is also a historical town that played a significant role in the battle of Caporetto in WWI.

The city is famous for its museums among the many attractions – Kobarid Museum and the First World War museums.

But there are plenty of things to do in Kobarid if don’t enjoy museums.

Outdoor lovers should definetly plan a hike along with the mountain trail name – The Walk of Peace, which runs all the away from the Alps up to the coast on the west. 

Stop at the famous historical landmark in Kobarid – The Napolean bridge, a medieval stone bridge on the Soca River which was rebuilt by the Italians after its destruction in WWI. 

Near Kobarid is the beautiful village Dreznica blessed with spectacular views of the Alpine meadows and valley.

I’d highly recommend spending a day or two here staying at one of the gorgeous homes to soak in the beauty and fresh mountain air. 

Don’t miss the pretty traditional church, pretty waterfalls, and definitely join one or two hiking trails if you are here during the summer.

VRŠIC PASS (JULIAN ALPS)

You can explore the magnificent Julian Alps comprising of many stunning valleys and passes by basing yourself in Dreznica(which is closer).

The Vršic Pass is famed as the highest mountain pass in the Julian Alps, and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, home to several major hiking trails that are popular mountaineers that attempt various climbs in the region.

The mountains were named after Julius Caesar after his conquest during the  Roman Empire  and the name still exists. 

This pass is straight of a fairytale fitting everything gorgeous, from turquoise lakes and rivers, waterfalls from rocky cliffs, magnificent views on the many hiking trails, and snow-capped peaks dominating the panorama at every turn – which you can’t stop admiring as you navigate through the winding roads with hairpin bends.

Apart from its gorgeous natural wonders, Julian Alps was a WWI location, which starts from the Russian Road and includes many areas within the mountains. Known as the Isonzo Front, hundreds of thousands of soldiers lost their lives in the war battling the rough terrain and harsh weather.

You can spot some ruins of the barracks and many memorials on your drive. 

Of course, don’t miss the Russian Church – a medieval wooden church surrounded by stunning landscapes of dense forests.

You can base yourself in any of the nearby villages and drive around to cover some of the highlights like Soca, Bovec and Kranjska Gora.

If you don’t prefer driving, the next best alternative is booking a guided tour that will cover your transport, along with having a local guide.

Here are the best recommendations for the Julian Alps.

KRANJSKA GORA

Among the popular places in the Julian Alps is Kranjska Gora, an easy day trip from Ljubljana by car.

The village has several hiking trails and cycling paths in the Alpine mountains for those visiting in the summer. If you are here in winter, you can ski or go ice climbing.

You can also visit the gorgeous Lake Jasna, which has walking paths too that offer sweeping views of the mountains.

If you are a serious hiker you should join the spectacular Three-Country-Border trail filled with dramatic views, which eventually leads to the summit of the mountain at the conjunction of Slovenia, Austria, and Italy.

Among the many gems in Triglav National Park is the hamlet Mojstrana. It is close to the Julian Alps, so you can include this on your circuit if you are covering them. 

No matter what the time of the year is Mojstrana is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.

In winter, you will be welcomed by the snow-blanketed landscape perfect for skiing and snow-showing, while in summer, it is heaven for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers.

Depending on your preference, fitness and your time, you can choose from many short to longer hiking trails scattered all across the Alpine mountains.

You can also camp or stay at one of the traditional huts enjoying the delicious delicacies of the region. 

MOSTNICA GORGE

In the middle of the Triglav park close to Lake Bohinj is the famous gorge Mostnica in the Voje Valley near Stara Fuzina village, known for its unique rock formations and canyons carved by the Mostnica River amidst the dense forests.

You can easily combine your trip to Lake Bohinj with a visit to Mostnica Gorge and spend half-a-day walking through the beautiful trail that passes through waterfalls and splendid rock formations around the river. 

It takes about 4 hours to complete the trail which runs for over 11km.

But the distance is worth your every effort as you will be rewarded very well.

VINGTAR GORGE

Located in the Triglav National Park is the splendid Vingtar Gorge running for about 2km made by the powerful River Radovna, comprising of pools, rapids and pretty waterfalls, making it one of the best places to visit in Slovenia especially during summer months.

Its convenient location means you can combine a trip to Triglav and Lake Bled with a stop at Vingtar.

Most people plan a day trip to this gorgeous gorge from Bled, which is ideal if you want to take up hiking on one of the trails(highly recommended) and also because of the easy transport option.

Did you know? Vingtar Gorge is home to the largest waterfall of Slovenia – The Sum Waterfall, which is over 25 meters high. 

The fantastic views of the Gorge that you pass through on the trails make it worth visiting, including the Glacial turquoise lakes, bridges, pools and many smaller waterfalls.

TOLMIN VILLAGE & GORGE

One of the most magical villages in Slovenia is Tolmin, straddling the confluence of Soca and Tolminka Rivers in the upper Soca Valley. Not many are aware that Tolmin was one of the strategically important locations during WWII. 

Whether you simply want to stay in one of the wooden homes, try the delicious cheese or explore the stunning landscape comprising of traditional cattle ranches of the Alpine – this is one of the places you should add to your itinerary to slow down and relax.

You can combine a visit to the village along with your trip to the beautiful Tolmin gorge, Triglav or the Socka valley.

Tolmin Gorge that was born at of the confluence of the Tolminkav River and the Zadlascica River is one of the famous places in Slovenia for outdoor lovers. 

Located close to the village at the lowest end of the Triglav National Park, you can complete many hiking trails depending on your preferences – This natural wonder is very stunning, so expect a lot of people crowded to capture one of the deepest gorges, especially if you are here during the peak season.

While many make it up to the fantastic Lake Bohinj, further ahead of the lake is the gorgeous Vogel mountain peak, one of the prettiest places in Slovenia.

From taking a superb cable car ride that will let you witness the dramatic panoramic views to go hiking in the summer to sign up for cross country skiing, Vogel is adventure-seekers heaven in the true sense. 

Thanks to its altitude, even if you are here during the spring months, you might experience snowfall.

LOGAR VALLEY (LOGARSKA DOLINA)

One of my favourite destinations in the country is the stunning Logar Valley.

This gorgeous valley encompasses glacial Savinja Alps in the heart of Kamnik, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. 

You will instantly love this place if you enjoy the natural beauty or being outdoors in general – as you can go hiking and cycling in the summer months or take up winter sports activities on the Alps during the winter.

Many biking and hiking trails to the Savinja Alps begin in Logar.

It is recommended that you spend a day or two to enjoy the blissful offbeat Slovenian landscape and also the distinct culture of this place, one of them is staying at a traditional farmhouse.

Explore Logar Valley’s attractions like the Chapel, the unique Alpine nut, the many pretty wooden barns, the pine meadows and wooden logging chutes.

THE BIG PASTURE PLATEAU (VELIKA PLANINA)

The Big Pasture Plateau, or locally known as Velika Planina is a high elevation valley comprising the Slovenian Alps in the northern part of the country close to Kamnik.

Thanks to the excellent connectivity, it is one of the best day trips from Ljubljana you can plan as it takes about an hour to reach.

One of the incredibly beautiful places in Slovenia, Velika is known for the charming village inhabited by herdsmen living in traditional Alpine huts surrounded by green rolling hills and meadows.

The Big Pasture Plateau is a year-round destination attracting different types of travelers each season – hikers and nature lovers during summer and spring, snow sports enthusiasts and winter wonderland seekers during the chilly season.

Come Summer, the landscape turns into a fairytale place with the perfect Alps in the backdrop. 

It is a delight to watch cattle herds out in the sunny pastures feasting on the hills as their bells tickle and herdsmen at work amidst a wildflowers canopy.

Don’t forget to try the fresh cheese or even better the delicious local cuisines where cheese is the dominant ingredient.

Check out the main attractions including the traditional hut-museum Preskar and the pretty hut-like Chapel of the St.Marys.

Summer is also the best time for planning hiking trips in and around the plateau, with many different difficulty levels.

From Kamniška Bistrica valley, you should take a cable car ride and the chairlift to the top of Velika Planina for enjoying stunning views. 

In winter these mountains slopes turn into ski slopes and the landscapes into a white winter wonderland, blanketed by thick sheets of ice. 

One of the prettiest day trips from   Ljubljana or nearby Piran you should plan is Lipica, a quaint village and one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, mostly famous for its gorgeous Lipica Equestrian Park and Stud Farm, which is over 400 years old.

The farm is famous for the Lipizzaner stallion – a special white stallion considered to be a special cultural breed that has been bred here since the mid-16th-century.

Today these perform at many of the riding schools across Europe. 

The best way to get to know so many things about this interesting place is by booking their guided tour of the farm, where you can witness performances and carriage rides.

You can also sign up for riding lessons if you are game.

Check out the Lipizzaner Museum to know the past of the oldest stud farm in Europe. You can also spend overnight at the excellent Hotel Maestoso on the premises.

PODČETRTEK AND DOLENJSKA

Among the best of Slovenia when it comes to hidden gems, the town of Podčetrtek and the neighbouring village Dolenjska should be on your itinerary. Both are conveniently located for day trips from the capital 

Ljubljana, which makes it possible for you to plan a road trip-cum-day trip where you will witness stunning vistas and dramatic views on your journey. 

Podčetrtek is home to many hot thermal springs and spas, making it a perfect place for unwinding amidst nature.

Check out the chocolate factory to taste the local delights and the stunning Olimje Monastery, one of the oldest in Europe, which also has a park.

Visit Dolenjska, the fairytale village where you can walk around, cycle or take up light hikes around the mountains. If you want a more laid-back experience, it is recommended to stay in this village.

BELA KRAJINA

White Carniola or Bela Krajina, located in the south-east part of the country bordering Croatia is one of the best places in Slovenia you should add to your itinerary if you are looking for a splendid offbeat destination.

If you are wondering what to do in Slovenia that’s not on the typical tourist trail White Carniola would be a perfect pick.

Blessed with abundant natural beauty, river rafting options, cheese and vineyards, you will also experience some of the best local delights when exploring this amazingly beautiful town.

Very close to Bela Krajina on the River Kolpa amidst the   Gorjanci mountains lies the fairytale village of Metlika, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia for going off the beaten path in the southern part of the country.

Although the village is very small with a population of just about 5000 people, it is one of the well-preserved places in Slovenia that’s historically deeply enriching and full of amazing natural trails for outdoor lovers.

From staying at pretty traditional chalets to tasting some of the most delicious Slovenian cheese, wine and cycling along the mountains – Metlika is where you should go for an offbeat, quiet holiday away in the mountains along with the comforts of civilization.

BEAUTIFUL PARKS, WATERFALLS, CAVES AND LAKES IN SLOVENIA

In this section, you will find the most beautiful places in Slovenia, which encompass natural wonders as the country is blessed with abundant natural beauty.

It is no surprise that you can find many of the top places to visit in Slovenia on this list.

The iconic landmark of Slovenia is Lake Bled, which is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.

No wonder, it is among the top sights in Slovenia visited by millions of travellers every year, which is a symbol of the gorgeous beauty the country is home to.

For starters, its location amidst the spectacular Julian Alps in Upper Carniola is one of the many reasons why Lake Bled is one of the beautiful lakes in Slovenia.

Although it is the most famous day trip from Ljubljana thanks to its proximity, staying overnight or a few days will enable you to enjoy without the crowds of day-trippers as there are tons of things to do and enjoy the blissful splendour of Lake Bled.

Among the top things to do in Lake Bled are taking a stroll around the lake, visiting the church on the island in the middle of the lake by taking a traditional wooden rowing boat – pletna, absorbing the stunning bird views of the Lake Bled by hiking to Mala Osojnica viewpoint, and to check out one of the enchanting Slovenian castles – Lake Bled Castle.

If you are game for more hiking trails, check out Ojstrica hill.

Don’t forget to indulge in the famous local delight Kremšnita, a tasty cream cake which is a must when you are in Lake Bled.

Although there are many buses from Ljubljana to Lake Bled frequently, it is best to rent a car as there are many awesome places to stop and you can cover many stunning places if you have a few days, including the other gorgeous Lake Bohinj, pretty villages and valleys like Vingtar.

If you are here during the peak season, expect higher prices, huge crowds and hotels filling faster.

So it is best to visit during the shoulder season or plan in advance for a convenient trip when you are thinking of Lake Bled. 

LAKE BOHINJ 

Located in the Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj, a natural lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Slovenia. 

It is not yet as popular as Lake Bled, which is just a 30-minutes drive away, but don’t be surprised if you find crowds as its popularity is growing quickly – thanks to its gorgeous, clear turquoise waters and its location amidst mountain peaks, which are home to many post-card perfect villages that you can explore.

In summer, you can enjoy swimming, cruises or kayaking in Lake Bohinj, along with hiking around. For fewer crowds and different views, join a boat trip to Ukanc.

Visit Ribčev Laz village, where you can find a church. The lake’s water heads to Savica waterfall – the biggest in Slovenia which you should add to your next stop.

For some dramatic views of the lake and the Julian Alps from the top, take the cable car ride to the top of Vogel Mountain. 

Visit the Alpine Dairy Museum to know how cheese is made – you also get to taste many types. It takes about 2-hours one way from Ljubljana by bus. 

I’d highly recommend taking a guided tour that will make the most of your time without the hassle of arranging transport.

SEČOVLJE SALINE NATURE PARK

One of the most beautiful places in Slovenia is located close to the towns of Portoroz and Piran – The Sečovlje Salina Nature Park or The Sečovlje Saltworks, the largest salt extraction pond in the country.

One of the hidden gems in Slovenia, you can learn all about the process of traditional extraction of salt here on a tour. 

The pond is amazing, especially at dawn and dusk, and in summer and spring, you can spot many migratory birds.

You can walk around the wetlands for quiet, beautiful ambience. Sečovlje is worth a short day trip if you are in Piran or Portoroz.

KRIŽNA JAMA CAVE (CROSS CAVE)

Križna Jama or  Cross Cave located in    Lož Valley  is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia and another hidden gem.

The cave is home to over 45 underground emerald green coloured lakes and home to over 50 wild species of organisms inhabiting the system, making it the fourth-largest cave ecosystem in the world in terms of biodiversity.

Križna Jama cave is a stunning water-filled limestone Krast cave, and one of the best natural wonders in Slovenia worth visiting.

You will find many natural cave formations in the underground lakes, which are illuminated with little golden nights, which makes it appear out-of-the-world and mystic. 

The best way to explore the cave is to take a boat trip that goes through the caves for about 1 to 1.5 hours.

The site is considered to be very rich in ancient remains of mammals and is one of the important archaeological places.

You can even spot a few remains of the bones of animals, many stunning formations of limestones on the walls of the cave and even some bats during the winter.

LAKE ZELENCI

One of the prettiest places in Slovenia is Lake Zelenci in Zelenci natural reserve in Kranjska Gora town in the northern part of the country. 

Zelenci is more hot springs than an actual lake, making it one of the best sought destinations during winters when the temperatures sink to the negatives in this region.

Thanks to its location bordering both Austria and Italy, this hidden gem in Slovenia has many admirers from these sections.

It is blissful to soak in the astounding emerald colour lake flanked by gorgeous Alpine mountains including the highest Triglav peak – of which you can get better views as you keep walking on the wooden paths.

Especially in winter, when the entire region is carpeted in thick snow, it is surreal, making it one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia you shouldn’t miss.

Even if you are here in summer or spring, the views are nothing less beautiful – and you can also spot some birds and colourful Alpine wildflowers.

SOCA VALLEY

Among the most popular natural attractions in the country is the gorgeous Soca Valley, one of the best places to visit in Slovenia.

The Soca River dominates the villages and towns from Kobarid, Bovec all the way, passing through forested hills – so you can not miss the turquoise coloured, gorgeous Soca when you are in this part of the country.

Bovec is the best town to enjoy spending time in the river, which is a famous town for adventure-seekers as there are many places for kayaking and even rafting on the Soča River Valley.

You can also swim in the river when the currents are mild during summer or have a picnic amidst perfect landscapes for a quick getaway from Ljubljana.

SAVICA WATERFALL

One of the many attractions in Triglav National Park is the Savica Waterfall, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, comprising of deep gorgeous around created by the force of the waterfalls.

You need to do a small hike to reach the waterfall, which is awesome and worth the climbing effort. 

It takes about 20 to 30 minutes right from the starting point of the hike at Savica hut to reach the viewing platform from where you can also spot the stunning Lake Bohinj. Savica is worth a stop while visiting Triglav.

PERIČNIK WATERFALL

How does walking behind a waterfall sound? If you are game for this adventure, then add Peričnik waterfall to your itinerary, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia located in the gorgeous Julian Alps. 

The nearest place to the waterfall is the post-card perfect village of Mojstrana, from where you can find the hiking trail which is filled with amazing views.

It is a more popular waterfall for people exploring the Julian Alps, and in summer you can expect some crowds too.

TRIGLAV NATIONAL PARK

Triglav National Park has many accolades – It is the only National Park and the largest in the country, is so huge that you can spend weeks just exploring this park alone. 

Encompassing rugged Julian Alpine mountain trails, glacial lakes, fairytale villages, gorgeous gorges, stunning valleys, amazing waterfalls – Triglav is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.

It is also among the most visited places in Slovenia and a major contributor to the tourism of the country – partly also due to its close location and good connectivity from Ljubljana.

Summer is the most popular time, but since the park is so huge, you will hardly encounter large crowds.

Depending on your time and preferences, you can spend between a day to several checking out many awesome things to do in Triglav.

In fact, many beautiful places in Slovenia on this list are a part of this national park – so you can include most of them if you plan ahead.

Depending on the places you are going to cover, you can decide your base – you have plenty of places to stay in Slovenia in this part – from the popular Lake Bled to smaller villages. 

The most popular activities include visiting Lake Bohinj, the hike of the seven lakes valley(multiple days hike), explore Soca valley trail, the hike to the highest peak in Slovenia – Mount Triglav, ancient wooden chapels, Kozjak waterfall and many pretty villages in and around the park(see other places on the list).

POSTOJNA CAVES

One of the top 10 attractions in Slovenia, which is visited by more than a million tourists every year is Postojna Caves.

One of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, the limestone caves run for over 24 km comprising of brilliant formations that can stir your imagination vividly.

You can explore the stunning formations of the stalagmites and stalactites partly by train(the first portion), and the other you can cover on foot.

Most people also combine a visit with checking out the stunning Predjama Castle, one of the magical castles in Slovenia. Read more about visiting this castle here.

SKOCJAN CAVES

Škocjan Caves Regional Park is home to eleven mammoth caves, with the park itself considered a part of the UNESCO world heritage site.

If you are looking for some of the best cave formations in Europe, Škocjan is where you should head. 

One of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, it is also among the highest caves in the world, and also receives hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.

You have to take a tour to explore the caves, 3 km of which you can walk around. The stunning formation of limestones, waterfalls and gorges are mind-blowing no doubt. 

MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN SLOVENIA – CITIES & TOWNS

Its magnificent location along the coast of the Adriatic’s peninsula on the Slovenian Riviera alone makes Piran one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia that you should visit.

Not many know that the history of Piran is among the oldest in Europe.

The city is characterised by winding streets lined on uneven, hilly areas dotted with bright red-coloured rooftops around which you will find the high walls close to the bay. 

Piran is pretty and compact, with most of the attractions being walkable – perfect for a short weekend break!

You can keep strolling moving towards the centre, where you will end up at the heart of the old quarter – the majestic Venetian-style Tartini square.

For enjoying some of the most splendid views of the city overlooking the sea, there are many spots.

The most famous are the walls of the town, with the other places being the bell tower and the hills skirting the old town. 

Oh, don’t forget to stop at the lighthouse in Punta, which is a superb spot to watch a sunset too.

Among the top resort towns in the country is Portoroz, one of the prettiest places in Slovenia on the Adriatic Riveria known for its upscale sea-facing resorts, traditional spas and a glorious past of the Venice empire.

Piran’s neighbour Portoroz in the olden times used to be an important port for trade and mining of sea salt, with the city enjoying its importance well into the 19th century. 

After WWII, the port town transitioned into a health and wellness town with the evolution of many luxurious spa and wellness resorts.

It is one of the best places in Slovenia if you are looking for a beautiful seaside getaway. 

Even if you are not going to spend money on high-end resorts, you can still enjoy a lot in this town – from the historic old town that perfectly holds different empires to the beautiful coast, the pretty promenade running all the way from neighbouring Piran and the beaches. 

Among the famous places to visit in Slovenia is Koper, one more jewel on the Adriatic coast in northern Istria. 

A popular summer getaway for the Slovenians and neighbouring Italians(a border just 30 minutes away), the city has been increasingly drawing international tourists in recent years.

Gorgeous views of the coast, beautiful beaches, some of the most colourful houses lining Titov Trg, the main square of Koper old town, ornate palaces and compact size are all the reasons what makes Koper one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. 

Not just these, Koper has a rich history because like Piran, Koper also was a part of Venice kingdom – the reason why you see a predominantly similar style of architecture in the buildings, and also why there are so many fountains and squares that are common.

Don’t miss a tour of the central attraction of the old town – the 15th-century Praetorian Palace, from where the current city council functions and the other Belgramoni – Tacco Palace.

It may come as a surprise for a capital city, but Ljubljana is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia – which boasts of one of the most beautiful old quarters and the hilltop splendid Ljubljana castle fortress towering over on one side of the River Ljubljanica, while the modern city thrives on the other part of the river.

It doesn’t feel like it at all, but being the biggest city the country, Ljubljana, one of the most beautiful European cities , is still compact, and you can enjoy most of the city in just a day or over a weekend comfortably without feeling rushed at all.

Stroll the parts of the old town lined with winding cobbled streets home to many colourful medieval wonders like pastel coloured Franciscan Church, the market and of course, the many ancient bridges.

SKOFJA LOKA

One of the most popular day trips from Ljubljana preferred by travellers is Skofja Loka, one of the fairytale towns in Slovenia encompassing all the post-card perfect elements – cobbled alleys dotted with colourful buildings and ornate patios, medieval bridges, waterways, and of course, a splendid castle – See what all you got there? 

Needless to say, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia has many fans. Nature lovers will also find many short trails for hiking – thanks to the beautiful hillside.

Capture the moment at the stunning the Capuchin Stone Bridge, meander through the historic cobbled streets leading to the main squares. 

Climb the top of the hills for many wonderful panoramic views of Skofja Loka. Plan a tour of the majestic Loka Castle, surrounded by medieval walls.

Imagine a city nestling amidst the gorgeous Alps, boasts of a history of thousands of years, home to some stunning lakes, rivers, viewpoints and delicious cuisine – we are talking of a total package here. 

And Kranj, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia ticks all the above boxes.

The fourth-largest city of the country is visited almost throughout the year also due to its convenient location between two other top places in Slovenia – Lake Bled and the capital Ljubljana.

Kranj is the unofficial capital of the Alps thanks to the spectacular snow-capped peaks that you can’t get enough.

On a clear sunny day, you can witness some of the highest peaks of the Alps amidst its mountain ranges, including Stol and Triglav.

Home to just over 10,00 people in the northern part of the country, Kamnik is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, known for many things – from its rich medieval, heavily Bavarian-influenced history on the cobbled streets of the old town, bright-roofed houses to magical hilltop castles and glacial valleys.

Although you can easily plan a day trip to Kamnik from Ljubljana, it is recommended to base yourself in Kamnik many days as you can explore Velika Planina, Logar Valley and Kamniška Bistrica river, which is home to Predaselj Gorge.

Explore the three beautiful castles, the old town, and Sutna street home to colourful buildings and the beautiful Kamnik Botanical Gardens.

Wander through the old town filled with medieval monuments, the church towers and pretty squares whom to many landmarks, including the most notable Khislstein Castle.

Nature lovers can also enjoy kayaking in the Kokra and Sava Rivers or hiking the Kokra Canyon. Take a stroll or pack a picnic around the lakes in Kranj.

If you are looking to off the beaten path in the country, it is not hard to find them. Among the most beautiful places in Slovenia for those looking for a non-touristy one, Maribor, the second-largest city bordering Austria could be a good option, although the city is so small and sparsely populated that it looks more like a town!

Many people visit Maribor as a day trip from Ljubljana or from Graz, an Austrian city that’s close, but if possible I’d recommend you to spend an overnight in Maribor as you will certainly not be disappointed.

You will find many elements of the medieval Habsburg empire as you walk amidst the beautiful old town or Glavni Trg, which is dominated by the town hall.

But this isn’t exactly the most ancient part because that’s in Lent on the Drava river, where you should take a tour of the world’s oldest vine.

The oldest city in the country is Ptuj on the River Drava, where the first settlement dates to the stone age.

This compact city is beautiful and walkable, making it one of the popular day trips from Ljubljana. 

Ptuj is the cultural hub of Slovenia, which is most famous among the festival-lovers for the 10-day long spring festival Kurentovanje that celebrates Slavic pagan traditions.

Do visit Ptuj if you can during this time to experience this unique carnival.

Among the unmissable things to do in Ptuj include checking out the streets of the old town embellished with cathedrals, arches, bell towers, town hall and monastery of the Franciscan amidst pretty smaller buildings – all remanents of the splendour of the Habsburg Empire.

As you reach the main square, you will notice the impressive Orpheus . 

But it is the castles on rocky hilltops that steal the show in Ptuj, not to forget the spectacular views that you can enjoy from these spots.

NOVO MES TO

Novo Mesto straddling the Krka River in the south-east part of the country bordering Croatia is a jewel of the Lower Carniola Region.

Novo Mesto is the cultural centre and one of the prettiest cities in Slovenia.

Among the beautiful attractions in the city is the old town on the banks of the River, which is filled with terracotta-coloured roofs on the cobbled streets.

Check out the famous landmark Kandija Bridge on the river. The main square is Glavni Trg, which is home to many medieval monuments.

You can spend a weekend exploring Novo Mesto and planning day trips to gorgeous villages of Dolenjska and Bela Krajina nearby.

MAP OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN SLOVENIA

Below are the maps of the most beautiful places in Slovenia for your reference. These are the map routes I added on Google maps. I have categorized them into three sections.

These are some routes that you can follow if you rent a car for a road trip in Slovenia.

You can ideally do it between 10 days to 15 days or more if you are leisurely going to go or add some hikes in between.

This map involves exploring mainly the regions in and around Triglav Park. I did a clockwise one, beginning at Kobarid and ending in Vogel.

The second map covers the places from Kamnik to Logar Valley. You can begin the trip from Ljubjana.

The third is the map for the best cities and towns in Slovenia, assuming you begin from the western-most Piran passing through Ljubjana and further to the east covering the caves and the castle.

Of course, you can do it the other way around too or add natural landmarks on your way.

So that’s all you got to know about the most beautiful places in Slovenia. Hope you are charged up to plan a trip to this gorgeous country.

If you have any other suggestions, do share in the comments below.

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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!

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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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27 of the Best Places to Visit in Slovenia

Slovenia is a land of fairy-tale castles, beautiful rivers and lakes, incredible mountains, and vibrant cities. It may be small, but this country at the western edge of the Balkan peninsula is well worth visiting in depth.

This guide to where to go in Slovenia includes well-known destinations like Ljubljana and Lake Bled, but you’ll also plenty of off the beaten path Slovenia hidden gems as well, contributed to by over two dozen travel bloggers who have visited and loved Slovenia!

So, without further ado, here are what we think are the best places to visit in Slovenia.

Ljubljana is a beautifully romantic city. Any trip to Slovenia’s charming capital should start with a visit to Prešeren Square, with its stunning Triple Bridge and cupcake pink Baroque Church of the Annunciation. Other city highlights include visiting Ljubljana Castle, which you can reach by either a short hike to the top of the hill or a ride up in the funicular. 

If you love European markets, then you simply must take a visit to the Central Market, which runs along the edge of the river. You can find everything from artisanal gelato to used jeans for sale here, so if you’re in the mood to hunt for a Slovenian souvenir, then give yourself a little bit of time to explore.

To enjoy a slice of Slovenian history, head to Congress Square, where important figures like Josef Broz Tito and Bill Clinton have addressed the crowds. This is also where Slovenian independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire was declared in 1918.

My personal favorite spot in Ljubljana is the Dragon Bridge, the city’s famous Art Nouveau landmark. It’s this bridge, when combined with the pinks and dreamy yellows of the city’s architecture , that gives Ljubljana its patina of dreaminess and fairytale-esque escapades. 

Did you know that Slovenia has one of the best wines in Europe? Located near the Italian border, the Brda region has built up a reputation for doing some of the finest wines in the country and it has craved international recognition.

This wine country has around 100 wine producers for approximately 5,000 inhabitants. Goriska Brda is characterized by sparse small villages perched on top of rolling hills and miles and miles of vineyards. The panoramic roads connecting vineyards and villages are absolutely stunning. The typical wines in the region are white wines, Rebola and Friulano which is similar to Tokai.

The main town of the region is Dobrovo with its castle as one of its main attraction. Also, don’t forget to visit the picturesque village of Šmartno. Considered a cultural monument, this tiny village offers great views of the valley and has many hiking trails.

We recommend staying 2 days to better appreciate the wines, local food, and the many hiking trails. Do stop by the San Martin hotel for breathtaking views of the rolling hills. Of course, the main activity is wine tasting so prepare your taste buds you will enjoy your visit!

Krnsko Jezero

Every feature of Krsnko Jezero contributes to the wonder and glory of the mountains in  Slovenia. Situated in Lepana Valley at 1,350m, this 2-hour 15 minute day hike in Slovenia will bring you to a mountain trail so stunning with lovely wooden cottages that have the best creamiest blueberry pies and cottage cheese.

To get to Krsnko Jezero, rent a car from Bovec and head towards Kranjska Gora. Turn right to the crossroad to Lepana Valley, a few hundred meters after the kilometre post 13.0. Drive this road through the Lepana Valley until you reach the end and park at the lodge of Dom dr. Klementa Juga.

The lake is surrounded by colourful poppies, including several endangered species such as the yellow Kerner Alpine poppy. The first part of the hike will not be kind on your legs as you have to hike craggy paths with some strenuous switchbacks. These manoeuvrings of the track will bring you into the view the opening of the Krnsko Jezero Lake.

You can stop here for a picnic and quietly take in the surroundings, and when you’re done you can also venture into other parts of Slovenia for a day-hikes just like what I did .  No matter how often we saw the sights from higher ground, the stark contrast between the mountains and the green waters were a sight to behold.

Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park is one of the most pristine alpine regions in Europe. The park gets its name from the country’s highest peak, Mt Triglav (2864 m) and coincides almost entirely with the Eastern Julian Alps. Covering about 4% of Slovenia, this massive area (840 square kilometers) is best explored over a few days.

Highlights of Triglav National Park include Lake Bohinj, Slovenia’s largest glacial lake, Savica and Peričnik Wws, Tolmin Gorges, and the Vintgar Gorge. These popular sites are easily accessible by car and a short walk from late Spring to early Fall. If you’re interested in exploring the more remote peaks and valleys of the Julian Alps, consider hiking hut to hut across Triglav National Park . In summer, you can overnight in mountain huts (rifugios) along the various trails. Just remember to make reservations in advance.

Triglav National Park is free for everyone. There’s no entrance fee and you don’t have to have a permit to hike overnight in the park. However, some of the popular destinations have entrance fees. For example, Vintgar Gorge costs 9 EUR per adult and Savica Waterfall costs 3 EUR.

If there ever was a city in Slovenia that deserved the byline ‘hidden gem’ in Slovenia, it would have to be Maribor . Although it is actually the second-biggest city in Slovenia, it still flies under most travelers’ radars. Historically, it was part of the Austrian empire and even today, it is located a mere 20 km from the Austrian border. It is a popular day trip destination for many Austrians and rightfully so.

Located on the Drava river, between Calvary and Pyramid Hill, its location in combination with a relatively mild climate has always favored viniculture. In fact, did you know that Maribor is the home of the oldest still-existing grapevine in the world? In the same location as the Old Vine, you can also find the Old Vine House, a small museum dedicated to all things wine. Around the city, you’ll also find plenty of options to taste some of the region’s best wines (for the best experience and beautiful views, head to the vineyards outside the city).

Apart from its long tradition in wine, Maribor also has plenty of historic sights to offer. Buildings such as the Water Tower and the Judgment Tower can be found in the Lent district. A bit further from the riverbank lies the city center with its beautiful examples of classical architecture, as well as the historic Jewish Quarter.

Although you can certainly see Maribor on a day trip, it’s well worth spending a night or two to really get out into the countryside and take in the views over the rolling hills. The best time to visit is without a doubt during the wine harvest in autumn, when the whole countryside turns into a stunning mix of red, orange, and yellow.

Savica Waterfall

Savica waterfall is the most popular waterfall in Slovenia and the third most visited sight in the country. Of course, it’s not as big or powerful as world-famous waterfalls like the Victoria or  Iguazu Falls , but it has a unique charm and beauty all its own. The waterfall flows out of a karst cave tunnel and divides into two parts, making a distinctive “A” shape.

The best time to visit is in the spring, when the snows of the mountains up above Lake Bohinj are melting and the water flow is at its highest. If you’re there in summer, it can get pretty crowded, so try to arrive early to avoid the tour groups.

Savica Waterfall is located inside the Triglav National Park, which is the only national park in the country. It’s near Lake Bohinj, so if you’re already visiting the lake you should definitely include a short side trip to the waterfall. You’ll have to climb about 500 steps to reach it, which takes about 20 to 25 minutes. Be sure to wear shoes with good grip, as the pathway can get slippery.

The view of the waterfall at the end is totally worth the effort, though! Unfortunately, Savica waterfall is not wheelchair accessible. There’s a modest entrance fee of 3 euros, which helps to keep the pathway well maintained. Most visitors stop at the viewing platform to take photos, but it’s also possible to continue a little further to a locked gate, from where you’ll have a closer view of the falls.

Love waterfalls? Check out  13 Gorgeous Slovenia Waterfalls to Add to Your Itinerary

Slovenia is one of the hottest destinations in Europe. Everybody is visiting Ljubljana, Predjama Castle, Lake Bled or Piran. Even though Slovenia is really small, and easy to drive around in just one day, there are still some places in a country that are off the beaten path. One of them is Podcetrtek. It is located on the East of Slovenia, in a halfway between Maribor and Zagreb, Croatia. This lovely region is one of the greenest places we have been to (it’s not always like that, we’ve been visiting Podcetrtek in September). 

I can’t imagine more peaceful place in Europe than this region. It’s a perfect holiday destination. There are many  things to do in Podcetrtek , including having fun at the Terme Olimia spa, visiting Olimje Minorite Monastery with one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe and watching animals at the Jelenov Greben Homestead.

Be sure to go to Domacija Haler to try the crafted beer and some traditional Slovenian food. If you want to eat something sweet, go to Syncerus Chocolate Boutique to try some chocolate.

Podcetrtek is quite small, so one or two days will be perfectly enough to visit all the important tourist spots. The best way to get there is by car.

If you are going to Slovenia in the winter, there are a few magical places to go to. One of them in Vogel. It is named by locals as the most beautiful ski resort in Slovenia .

The landscape is surreal and is situated in the Triglav National Park, therefore the area is protected, but they still allow skiers. It has 14 great slopes for both beginners and intermediate skiers. From the ski resort you have views over Trigal, Slovenia’s highest peak and Bohinj Lake. Even if you are not a skier, it is worth going up with the aerial cable car just for the view.

There are many mountain eateries but the most spectacular one is Panorama with a view over the lake. The not-to-miss lift starts from Bohinj Lake. It is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Slovenia! You can access Vogel by car (2 hours from Ljubljana) or by bus that will take you directly to the cable car, at the Ukanc stop. 

Lake Bohinj

With its crystal clear waters and stunning mountain views, Lake Bohinj is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. While it’s often overlooked by tourists who visit its more famous neighbour Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj should be on everyone’s Slovenian bucket list!

The shores of Lake Bohinj are a short but incredibly scenic drive from Lake Bled. The lake is the largest permanent lake in Slovenia and is a quiet respite from the crowds that throng Lake Bled during busy months. On the way to Lake Bohinj make sure to stop at the quaint town of Bohinjska Bistrica located in the foothills of the Triglav National Park which is located between Lake Bled and Bohinj.

There are lots of activities to keep visitors occupied at Lake Bohinj. There is something for everyone: from hiking and cycling the shores to kayaking and swimming in the refreshing waters We love the hikes to Mount Psivec and Vogar which showcase the amazing views of the lake below. It’s also a great place to come and do absolutely nothing! We spent our day at Lake Bohinj relaxing at one of the many secluded swimming areas that are dotted around the lake. For anyone planning a trip to Slovenia, be sure to make some time for this beautiful lake.

Tolmin Gorge

Situated at the southwestern most end of the Triglav National park in North West Slovenia, the Tolmin Gorge sits at the confluence of the Tolminka and Zadlascica rivers and is home to some of the most stunning, cool, turquoise waters. The gorge itself is beautiful and usually quieter than other gorges along the Soca River valley, making it a great off the beaten track addition to your  Slovenia itinerary . 

The gorge itself consists of two levels and it’s possible to climb down and walk along the river banks along gravel paths. On a warm summer’s day, visitors enjoy swimming or dipping their toes into the fresh waters (the water is extremely clean – like everything in Slovenia!)

There are also viewing platforms and bridges above where you can get a great view of the gorge with less legwork. From the lower level of the gorge, a cycle path runs along the river and it’s possible to bike further along the river valley if you have your own bikes. 

The gorge is open from April to November each year (it’s closed during the winter). We visited in autumn and found that a spectacular time to visit Tolmin Gorge (and the rest of Slovenia) with the gently rust-colored leaves falling into the gorge and adding even more color.

Vintgar Gorge

When we talk about Slovenia’s unspoiled nature and its hidden gems, we absolutely can’t pass by one of the mind-blowing natural sites – Vintgar Gorge.

Vintgar Gorge is a unique gorge nestled cozily in the eastern edge of Triglav National Park, just a few kilometers outside of the picturesque town of Bled. The gorge, carved by the Radovna river, is surrounded by varied plant life and lovely wooden walkways and bridges installed bellow impressive vertical cliffs.

What makes this place so special is the fact that the color of the water changes from green to blue depending on the section. In other places, the water is transparent and forms beautiful pools, rapids, and waterfalls. Hearing the roaring of the water is extremely relaxing and will make you want to stay there as long as possible.

At the end of the 1.6 km trail, you will spot another highlight, the mighty 13-meter-high Šum waterfall. Here, you can take some time and admire this wonderful gift of nature and capture some photos.

This destination is an amazing place for a family trip, a relaxing day out where you surrounded with nature, a peaceful early morning walk, or just enjoying the pure, fresh air. If you want to know more about Vintgar Gorge read  more info here .

Bela Krajina

Deep in the south of lush green Slovenia is the rustic, humble and beautiful region of Bela Krajina. It is the poorest area in this country, but the people are incredibly lovely, welcoming, and eager. They are open to more people visiting the region and they will be very happy to show you just how relaxing and healthy life can be here!

There are plenty of hiking routes to explore, a glorious gushing river with ample adventure sports activities to try, hidden retreat spots to relax and unwind, and Croatia is literally a stone’s throw away. Bela Krajina’s river is the border between Slovenia and Croatia – and you can easily wave to the neighboring locals as you sit on one side of the river whilst they are on the other.

I hung out in Bela Krajina for 4 days and got up to plenty of things whilst I was there. Admittedly, you could check into a retreat like Big Berry and just let nature overtake you for all of that time. However, if you have itchy feet and really want to experience Bela Krajina to its fullest, I recommend the following: eat their locally grown and homemade specialities, go whitewater rafting along the river, visit the darling traditional little town of Črnomelj and go on this Bela Krajina secret hike .  

Soča Valley

Soča Valley is a scenic area located in western Slovenia, close to  Triglav National Park . This beautiful valley was created by one of the most famous rivers in the Balkans – Soča river. The river’s emerald color makes it a unique natural wonder and a trademark of Slovenian nature. 

In Soča Valley, there are lots of great places to visit – it is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and sports aficionados. Hikers, climbers, kayakers, cyclists, and skiers will all appreciate the variety of possibilities in Soča Valley.

One of the must-see places is the Great Soča Gorge. It is a 750 meters long and 15 meter deep gully. At some points, it is only 1 meter wide! There is no marked trail leading along the gorge, but it is possible to get down to the bottom of the gully or admire it from the top of the rocks.

All nature lovers should also visit Kojzak Waterfall and Tolmin Gorge. Kojzak Waterfall might not be very high, but it is so beautiful that it is considered as one of the best attractions in Soča Valley. Tolmin Gorge is a perfect place for an undemanding walk – it takes about one and a half hours to explore this amazing natural formation.

Another natural gem is Boka Waterfall. It is actually the highest waterfall in Slovenia – it reaches a whopping 136 meters! It is a real treat for Instagrammers and nature lovers.

Velika Planina

Slovenia is one of the greenest destinations in Europe, and one of the most amazing places to experience it all is on a summer hike to the mountain plateau to see the incredible alpine views and the historic  herdsmen settlement of Velika Planina  (literally “big plateau”) at the top.

Located an hour northeast of Ljubljana, it’s a scenic and moderate hike to the mountain top, where local cow herders walk their herds up to greener pastures for the summer months of June through September. The surrounding Kamnik-Savinja Alps are the perfect backdrop to explore this beautiful plateau on foot, but first you have to get there.

You can always hike up nearly one mile to the mountain top. But a more enjoyable way is to take the cable car up from the valley below, followed by a short chair lift to the summit at Velika Planina.

Once at the top, you can hike to the settlement and visit the tiny museum to learn about the history and local culture. You can also visit the settlement for the annual Christmas Eve mass at The Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows, a magical time of year when visitors arrive by candlelight for midnight mass. When you’re visiting Slovenia, a hike to Velika Planina is a must for outdoor lovers and adventure travelers.

One of my favorite places to visit in Slovenia is  Piran, a pretty town on Slovenia’s Adriatic coastline .  This former fishing village is built onto a peninsula that juts into the sea, and with fortified city walls and a baroque church keeping watch from above, it’s a postcard-perfect destination.

Despite its small size, it’s easy to spend two or three days in Piran as there are plenty of things to see and do.  

The Old Town is well worth exploring not only to see Tartini Square and its pastel-colored Venetian Gothic buildings but also to wander the cobbled alleys that wind their way up the hill behind the town.

Your uphill walk will be rewarded with a stunning panorama of Piran from St. George’s church – come just before sunset for the most incredible views.  Another great vantage point is the city walls, which date back to the 7 th  century, and are open daily until dusk.

Back down at sea level, a stroll along the seaside promenade is a must.  Restaurants and ice cream sellers jostle for trade, sun worshippers bask on the water’s edge, and a tiny lighthouse stands proud at the tip of the peninsula, just as it has done for almost two hundred years.

Even during the busy summer months when visitors flock to Piran for its idyllic seaside location, the town has a relaxed and friendly vibe.  There’s nothing pretentious about this coastal town – and that’s what makes it so special.

The picturesque town of Bovec can be found nestled in the Soca Valley and surrounded by the majestic Julian Alps. This little town is the adventure center of Slovenia and is jam-packed with adrenaline junkies. Dare to go white water rafting on the Soca River ? Or how about flying through the sky on a zip line? Then Bovec is the place for you!

Getting to Bovec can also be an adventure if you drive the death-defying Vrsic Pass from Kranjska Gora. It has been listed as one of the World’s Most Dangerous Roads due to its hairpin bends and steep gradient. If you have nerves of steel, it is highly recommendable as the views are spectacular.

For a change of pace, the hike to the Boka Waterfall takes an easy 1.5hr and you’ll get up really close to watch the water falling freely for 106 meters before hitting the rocks below. The Virje Waterfall is another easy 3 km hike from Bovec.

For history buffs, the Walk of Peace is a hiking and cycling trail that links the places associated with the First World War. There are also numerous other hiking and cycling trails with varying levels of difficulty to suit all levels, from racers to young families.

Still, want more? How about skiing, sledding and cross-country skiing in winter or bungee jumping from the bridge over the Soca River. How about seeing the whole valley from a paraglide or spelunking in the nearby caves? Whatever your sport of choice, Bovec will provide and then some!

The city of Ptuj has incredibly been inhabited since the Stone Age! Being the oldest recorded city in Slovenia, it easily rivals Ljubljana for historical importance, yet very few tourists make it this far East.

The Ptuj Castle is a highlight with its panoramic views over the red-roofed city and across the Drava River. The castle museum has an extraordinary display of armour, tapestries and a large collection of Kurent masks and costumes.

The old town is small and can easily be explored in an hour or 2. From the central Slovenski Trg square make your way to the clock tower in front of the Catholic Church, then wander down Murkova Ulica till you reach the al-fresco restaurants and cafes in Mestni Trg square. Other sights include the statue of Saint Florian, Minoritski Trg, the Miheliceva Gallery and Mestni Park.

Ptuj is also well known for its thermal pools, so make sure to find time for a restorative soak. The slides and outdoor pools are also a big hit with kids.

The medieval city of Ptuj is simply enchanting. Get lost meandering along the quaint cobbled streets, enjoy a delicious meal while watching the world go by in Mestni Trg square or enjoy a walk along the Drava River. No matter what you do you’ll have the town virtually to yourselves!

Portoroz is a small town on the Adriatic Coast of Slovenia.  It’s a great town to use as a base for exploring the area.  Make sure you take a day trips by bus to either Piran and Izola, also on the coast but with a lot more old European charm.  You could also take a boat trip to see them, but don’t forget Portoroz, too!

If the season is right, relax at the Portoroz Beach.  Visit the salt pans to see where Piran salt comes from.  Walk along the promenade and admire the Adriatic Sea and check out the shops and restaurants. 

If you’re just visiting Portoroz, Piran, and Izola, two or three days should be good, but if you’re using it as a base for day trips, then maybe four or five would be better. Be sure to visit the Skocjan Caves, Postonja Caves, or Mount Vogel.  This was the best place I visited in Slovenia (but  I did love it all ) and I can’t wait to go back.

When friends of our suggested a holiday by a lake, we were dubious to say the least, especially visiting  Lake Bled with a toddler . But after a week spent at Lake Bled in Slovenia, we were converts. So much so, we are eager to return. Lake Bled, nestled among the Julian Alps, is one of the most picturesque places we’ve ever visited. Extremely family-friendly and with a landscape to wow you, it’s one of the best places to visit in Slovenia.

During summer you can enjoy swimming in the lake, along with a host of other water sports. Bled Castle sits on a hill top overlooking the lake and offers some spectacular views of the lake and surrounding area. You can also immerse yourself in some history while exploring the castle.

Bled Island is easily reached, either by boat or, if you fancy it, by paddle boat. You can even swim out to it! Make sure to visit the church on the lake and ring the bells. It’s said that those who ring the bell, and therefore pays honour to the Virgin Mary, will get a wish come true. The island, although small, is worth getting one of the pletna boats over, especially if visiting with smaller children.

There is a range of other activities to do including hiking, tobogganing down the mountain side, walking the circumference of the lake and more. And winter sports are in abundance around Lake Bled if you are visiting at that time of year. There are lots of restaurants and cafes for eating in, and you must make sure to try a slice of Bled Cake. It is delicious!

You can easily spend a week near Lake Bled, enjoying all it has to offer and the surrounding areas. Neighboring Lake Bohinj is worth a visit if you have a car, and the capital Ljubljana and the nearby Postojna Caves are easy to reach for a day trip. It truly is a great base for enjoying a holiday and exploring some other must-visit places in Slovenia.

Skojcan Caves

Slovenia is known for a few of its cave sites, but even though Skocjan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s not as well known as some other sites. Maybe it’s because it’s further from Ljubljana, tucked into the corner of the Italian and Croatian borders. It’s almost three hours from the capital city either by public transportation or car, but is it ever impressive and well worth the trek!

Skocjan is the largest underground cave in the world, and even when you are touring it, it’s difficult to grasp the enormity of it. Upon arrival, tickets are bought and visitors are separated into groups. There are tours in many languages, but of course there are more in Slovenian and English, which leave hourly starting from 10:00 AM. The tours meet on the grounds of the ticket office and are escorted to the entrance to the cave, which is a good ten minute walk. 

After a brief introduction, the guide holds open a small door, and as you peer in: surprisingly it looks small and confined. Where are the huge caverns? They are located after the initial path sloping down into the earth. After a few minutes, the cave opens up and the walls and ceilings are covered with limestone stalagmites and stalagmites. The gorge and caves were created over centuries by the Reka River, which you will cross and see during the tour. There are three different walks to choose from when buying your tickets, but please beware, all of them are on unleveled ground, which is sometimes wet and slippery. There are also quite a few stairs to climb. At the end of the tour, you can take an outdoor elevator to ground level back to the ticket office and parking.

One of the most impressive sights and natural phenomena in all of Slovenia, it would be a shame to miss it!

Big Berry (Primostek)

What better way to start that day than over a breakfast basket filled with organic local produce while you watch the Kolpa River float by? Hypnotic! In summer, you can even swim in the river. 

Big Berry, Slovenia  is a stylish glampsite set on the Slovenia/Croatian border near Primostek (Bela Krajina region). Each cabin has a hot tub for sipping delicious Pivovarna Vizir wine or beer. There are a couple of dining options close to Big Berry, a well-equipped kitchen in each cabin, and BBQ area. 

With Big Berry amenities you might not want to leave but since Slovenia is a small country you can easily day trip to the likes of the fairytale town of Bled or to Postojna Caves!

Tivoli Park, Ljubljana

Tivoli is the biggest park in the capital of Slovenia,  Ljubljana . There are always people enjoying this green oasis right close to the train station and central Ljubljana, but the area is big enough that everyone can find their own spot in the shade under a tree.

In Tivoli Park, you can find approximately five square kilometers of paths, fountains, trees, outdoor galleries, and even a pond with an old boathouse – no boats anymore, as it was turned into a very popular cafe called Colnarna with plenty of outside seating.

Locals love to spend time in the park. There are people doing yoga, cycling, jogging, roller-skating, or just strolling around. You can find a few children’s playgrounds around the park and if you are patient and quiet, you might see squirrels jumping from tree to tree. You can see families having picnics and in the evening listening to mini free concerts under the stars – mMostly in the warmer months, of course. Moms with strollers somehow always end up chatting and eating cakes at the tables of Colnarna or one of the other smaller cafes.

I have two favorite spots in Tivoli. One is a bench in a rose garden next to the Glasshouse, near the pond and close to the outdoor library, which pops up on sunny days in summer. The second one is at the top of the Roznik hill, above Tivoli. The hike is just long enough to call it exercise, and you can treat yourself to a local dish at the top. Flancati are huge sweet snacks that go well with coffee or tea.

Last but not least, on the way back to the city, check out the outdoor gallery at Jakopic’s promenade. They change the photographs on display every few months. 

One of the things we like to do as we’re traveling to a new country is to use the list of Unesco World Heritage Sites as a touchstone for suggesting places to visit. That’s how we ended up in Idrija, Slovenia .

Idrija was inscribed on the World Heritage list because it was the site of the world’s second largest mercury mine for more than 500 years, only closing when the falling prices and increased knowledge of the poisonous effects of mercury converged to make it no longer economically or ecologically viable to continue the operation. A portion of the mine has been preserved for tours.

An interesting, and perhaps ironic, fact of life in Idrija was that while the men were working in the fatal environment of the mercury mine, the women mostly occupied themselves making elaborate and beautiful lace which was sold all over Europe. 

The Municipal Museum was full of lovely examples of Idrija lace, including several of their unique asymmetric creations to require uncanny skill, imagination, and patience.

Logar Valley

Lesser known than other places in Slovenia such as Lake Bled or Ljubljana, the Logar Valley is definitively worth the detour.

Wandering through this valley, also known as Logarska Dolina, is breathtaking: Sharp summits, rock steep walls, green pastures, historical and charming farms and, as everywhere else in the country, lots of trees… ( see more photos in this article ), but the main interest is the drive or walk to the end of this glacial valley. 

The Logar Valley is not difficult to access. Located north of Ljubljana, it will take you about 1 hour and 40 minutes by car. It is a great place for those who love hiking. There are several waterfalls in the area, but they are not always flowing. One of the most visited, the 90m (295ft) high Rinka waterfall, can be reached after a steep but short hike from the last carpark deep in the valley.

I recommend an overnight stay to appreciate the silence of nature and to see the sun slowly filling up the valley and highlighting the mountains. But if you stay longer, you can explore the other glacial valleys nearby: Robanov Kot and Matkov Kot or drive the Solcava Panoramic Road and taste delicious produce at the various farms.

Planning a trip to Slovenia? Pin it for future reference!

Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.

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I just visited Ljublana and Lake Bled. Had no idea there was so much to see in Slovenia

yes there are so many great places to visit in Slovenia!

So informative, Thank-you. I plan to visit Slovenia (Triglav National Park) in a couple of weeks time, this is definitely useful for seeing what else is around.

Hope you are still able to travel this year! Enjoy your trip!

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Slovenia Bucket List: Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia

Here’s my guide to 15 most beautiful towns and places in Slovenia. These Slovenia destinations are among the most beautiful off the radar sites in Europe. they should definitely be on Central Europe itinerary .

Tiny overlooked Slovenia is one of Europe’s most charming and delightful off the beaten path destinations. It’s a gravely beautiful land of imposing green mountains, shimmering glacial blue lakes, and authentic medieval towns.

Slovenia is every bit as beautiful as its neighbors like Croatia . But it has an independent spirit and slightly different charm all of its own. Slovenia also lacks the crowds and high prices of other European countries.

Budget more time than you think you should for the varied landscapes of Slovenia. You’ll surely wish you had more when you leave.

Best Tours & Tickets For Slovenia

Here are some can’t miss tours and experiences in Slovenia. In high season, you may want to book ahead.

• Ljubljana walking tour
• Ljubljana food and wine tour
• Predjama Castle
• Day trip to Lake Bled
• Canyoning in Lake Bled
• Piran walking tour
• Piran food and wine tour

Beautiful Places in Slovenia You Shouldn’t Miss

Here are some of the best and most beautiful destinations in Slovenia.

1. Ljubljana

The tongue twisting capital of Ljubljana is a lovely small capital city. It’s filled with playful architecture and has a robust cafe culture.

There are really no marquis must see sites in Ljubljana. It’s more about the laid back European experience.

Spend plenty of time wandering the cobbled old town. Start at the city’s heart, Preseren Square. Cross the Venetian-looking Triple Bridge and wander along the emerald green river — taking in the whimsical bridges and Jože Plečnik architecture.

Then explore Ljubljana Castle. From Dragon Bridge, it’s a steep hike up or easy funicular ride to the castle.

Check out the Central Market for lunch or eat at one of the cafes along the lively river embankment. In the late afternoon or early evening, take a 30 minute cruise down the Ljubljanica River.

I’m a museum hound. But I didn’t find any in Ljubljana that were sufficiently interesting to lure me off the pretty streets.

But I did take an immensely interesting architecture tour, learning all about Plečnik and seeing Ljubljana’s beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, including the striking Vurnik House. Plečnik shaped Ljubljana, just like Gaudi shaped Barcelona and Bernini shaped Rome .

If you like shopping, you’ll love Ljubljana. It’s main street, which changes names from Mestni trg to Start trg, is lined with quaint shops.

You can pick up all sorts of souvenirs and/or clothing. There are also plenty of restaurants here as well serving up delicious seafood and Ljubljana’s specialty, fried frog legs.

If you enjoy street art, head over to the Metelkova Mesto district, just a short stroll from the medieval old town. It has an edgy bohemian feel. Aside from the cutting edge street art, there are pop up flea markets and temporary exhibitions.

For more information, you can check out my one day in Ljubljana itinerary .

Where To Stay In Ljubljana: Hotel Angel ,  Zlata Iadjica Boutique Hotel ,  Antiq Palace Hotel and Spa , Va nder Urbani Resort , Grand Hotel Union .

2. Lake Bled

Lake Bled is Slovenia’s top alpine resort. Lake Bled sits placidly in the shadow of the Julian Alps in Slovenia, thronged by forests and mountains. It’s a frankly outrageous combination of blue and green.

Lake Bled boasts a cliffhanging medieval castle carved into a mountain. Bloggers and travel writers routinely use the (quasi hackneyed) term “fairytale” to describe the #1 tourist attraction in Slovenia.

There are hordes of tourists in high season. But you could grudgingly see why they’re all there. Lake Bled is not overrated.

Its beauty and tranquility shine through, despite meeting other humans at nearly every turn. It’s a place to reconnect with nature and be humbled by it.

Take the 3 mile walk around the lake, stopping to take in the contrasting green wooded and azure views and admire the swans. If you’re in a rush, you can rent a bike and cycle the lake. If you want a real hike, take the one hour hike up to the best viewing point, Malo Osojnica on the western side of Lake Bled.

You can also visit the 11th century Bled Castle , which is often hailed as Slovenia’s most ancient castle. It’s perched 130 meters above the lake’s walking path, its red turrets and roofs making a splash on the blue skyscape.

The small castle has ramparts, moats, romanesque walls, and renaissance buildings — everything you might expect from a medieval fortress. While you’re there, you can sample the famous Bled cream cake at the castle cafe.

In the center of the lake is a small island with the Church of the Assumption. Flat bottomed boats ferry people back and forth. Local legend holds that if you ring the church’s bell three times, your wish will come true.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Lake Bled .

3. Vintgar Gorge

The extremely photogenic Vintgar Gorge is just a short 15 minute drive north of Lake Bled.

I found it almost as scenically satisfying as Bled, and it was ever so slightly less touristy. It’s open 8:00 am-7:00 pm in the summer, entry is € 5.

Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6 kilometer wooden walkway that zig zags over the Radovna River. It reaches 100 meters in some places and clings to the side of cliffs, sometimes leaving room for only a single file shuffle.

It’s a relatively flat and easy to walk in and out trail. At the end of the trail is the impressive 16 meter Šum Waterfall flowing beneath the Bohinj railway bridge.

4. Lake Bohinj

Lake Bohinj lies in the heart of Triglav National Park, one of Slovenia’s most scenic spots. It’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

Many people prefer Lake Bohinj to Lake Bled because it’s quieter and much less crowded than Bled. It’s more pristine, not a well-oiled tourist machine.

You can swim, but it’s very cold even in summer. Better to hike or boat around the lake, hike up to Savica Falls, or take the table car up to Mount Vogel. From Mount Vogel, you’ll have magnificent views of Triglav Park and the Julian Alps.

The tiny village of Ribcez Laz sits at the southeast corner of the lake. The town’s main landmark is a lake front church, St. John the Baptist.

The beautiful town of Piran in Slovenia sits on a slender finger of a peninsula. It’s completely encircled by the sparkling Adriatic sea. You’ll feel like you’ve been power beamed to Tuscany . It’s a little slice of Italy .

Semi-crumbling pastel facades that Michelangelo might have sculpted rise above ancient maze-like streets. Venetian architecture is adorned with tracery windows.

The compact historic core is one of the best preserved medieval sites in the Mediterranean. Piran’s reminiscent of Venice , but without the canals or hordes of tourists.

Tartini Square is the heart of Piran’s old town. It’s a marble-paved, sherbet-toned, red roofed oval. Tartini Square is full of chic bars, alfresco cafes, and colorful houses. It’s a splendid place to snack and people watch.

As you stroll through the town, stop by Venetian House, the old marina and lighthouse, and hike up the bell tower of St. George Cathedral.

The latter is a miniaturized version of the Campanile of San Marco in Venice. The bells rings every 15 minutes. From the top, you can see four countries all at once — Italy, Croatia, Austria and Slovenia.

Here’s my complete guide to Piran .

6. Portoroz

The town of Portorož lies east of Piran. It’s a 30 minute walk on a scenic shore path that runs between the two towns.

Portoroz is a swishy beach town, specializing in spa treatments thanks to the area’s unique mud and salt.

It’s the only sandy beach on the tiny Slovenian coast. Bars and cafes line the seaside, making this town a lovely holiday spot.

Izola is another quaint town on Slovenia’s Istria coast. It’s a 25 minute bus ride from Piran.

Izola is smaller and quieter than Piran. But it still has a lovely waterfront promenade, swimming areas, and a picturesque old town. If you’re on the hunt for an off the beaten path town on the Adriatic, explore beautiful Izola.

Only a half hour from Piran lies the tiny town of Socerb, very close to the Italian border. There you’ll find the ruins of Socerb Castle.

The ruins are on the coastline at the very edge of the Karst Plateau. They’ve been dominating the cliff since the Illyrian times.

The castle is now a restaurant. From it, you’ll have a fantastic view of Trieste Italy.

10. Predjama Cave Castle

If a medieval fairytale type castle is one your agenda, look no further. Less than an hour from lovely Ljubljana Slovenia lies one of Europe’s most photogenic castles, Predjama Castle . The castle is a must visit beautiful place in Slovenia.

Predjama Castle is one of the country’s most popular attractions. Tucked into the mouth of a towering cliff, it’s a cave fortress filled with secret tunnels and hidden caves.

Your first glimpse is breathtaking. Predjama Castle’s whitewashed walls are set off by the landscape and natural rock. It’s foreboding and exudes mystery.

What makes this place special and visually appealing is that the castle is partly built into the cave. Underneath the castle, there’s a massive cave. You don’t really need to go inside. But it’s a scenic spot to stop for a drink or coffee.

11. Postojna Caves

You can combine a visit to Predjama Castle with the Postojna Caves . This is the largest cave system in Slovenia, spanning 12 miles.

You board an open air train, which slings you into a gaping hole in the mountain. One of the caverns is lit with chandeliers.

Once there, you’ll follow a guide down well lit paths. As you hike up the “Big mountain,” you’re surrounded by a sea of stalagmites and stalactites.

Hiking back down, you’ll pass “Spaghetti Hall” (with long skinny stalactites and curtains of rocks) to the “Concert Hall.”

12. Skocjan Caves

The dramatic Škocjan Caves have been a Slovenian UNESCO site since 1986. These subterranean caves are gargantuan, spooky, and an absolute must visit if you’re traveling through Slovenia.

You’ll see stalagmites, stalactites, and interesting rock formations. You visit on a 1.5 hour guided tour through the lighted passageways. In the Grand Cavern, the mighty Reka River crashes through.

If you only have time for one sets of caves, I would chose Škocjan over Postojna. You can visit on a guided day tour from Ljubljana .

13. Brda Region

The Buda region is so pretty that it’s known as the Tuscany of Slovenia. Visiting Brda is a good way to get off the beaten path and relax.

It’s in the west of Slovenia. The main town is Dobrovo, about 2 hours from Ljubljana.

Start with the Dobrovo Castle. It’s a 17th century Renaissance castle. Pick up a map at the tourist office there and you can follow the Brda wine trail. There’s also a Vinoteka at the castle, one of the largest cellars in Slovenia where you can purchase top some goodies.

While you’re in the region, stop in at the fortified village of Smartno. The fortification were built in the 16th century. You can stroll the winding cobbled streets and admire the views.

14. Rodovljica

This quaint town exudes old world charm. If you are day tripping to Lake Bled from Ljubljana, you can stop at this beautiful Slovenia destination on the way back.

Its traffic free center is jammed with historic buildings in the charming Linhartov trg square.

This is a great place to pick up a souvenir or nurse a coffee. Rodovljica also has a rather eccentric beekeeping museum.

15. Julian Alps

To top off your Slovenia experience, head to the hills. If you love adventure sports, the Julian Alps are a great destination. You need a car to get around. If you don’t have one, book a tour.

Start at the beautiful blue-green Lake Jasna. From Lake Jasna, head to the breathtaking Vrsic Pass — one of Europe’s most iconic roads.

With 50 white knuckle hairpin turns, it’s not for the faint of heart. You head back down via the Soca River Valley.

When hunger calls, stop in the little mountain town of Bovec in Soca Valley. This is where you can book a white water rafting, ziplining, or kayaking tour. Bovec makes a good base, if you want a longer stay in this area.

Celje is a historic city nestled in the heart of Slovenia, gracefully straddling the banks of the Savinja River. As the country’s third-largest city, Celje has roots dating back to the time of the Celts and Romans.

At the heart of Celje stands the majestic Celje Castle, a medieval fortress that overlooks the city from its perch atop a hill.

This impressive structure once served as the residence of the influential Counts of Celje and is now a popular historical site. The views from the castle provide a breathtaking panorama of the city and its surroundings.

The Old Town of Celje is very charming, with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. The charming architecture is a testament to the city’s storied past, showcasing various architectural styles that have shaped its identity over the centuries.

The Prince’s Mansion, a splendid Renaissance building, stands as a reminder of the city’s connection to noble families and their cultural contributions.

Celje has a vibrant cultural scene with many theaters, galleries, and museums. The Celje Regional Museum delves into the city’s history, displaying archaeological finds, art collections, and artifacts that illustrate its evolution through time.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Celje is surrounded by natural beauty. The nearby Savinja River and picturesque landscapes offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing. The city’s proximity to the Pohorje Mountains adds to its allure, providing a gateway to year-round outdoor adventures.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the most beautiful places in Slovenia. You may enjoy these other Europe itineraries:

• 10 Days In Croatia & Slovenia
• Bavaria Germany
• Germany’s Romantic Road
• Southern Spain
• Spain: Six 1 Week Itineraries
• Italy’s Classic Cities
• Central Europe: Eight 1 Week Itineraries
• 1 0 Days in Southern France
• 10 Days in Tuscan y

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Last Updated on August 29, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Best things to do in Slovenia

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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

16 days  / from 5292 USD

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.

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

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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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Must-See Attractions in Slovenia

When visiting Slovenia , travelers are impressed by its vibrant history, beautiful nature, and rich culture. Many of the country’s castles and museums make visitors feel like they are traveling back in time. Slovenia’s pristine nature is full of mountains, rivers, and caves for visitors to discover. Here are the must-see attractions when visiting Slovenia. Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Browse our collections of Epic Trips , Mini Trips and Sailing Trips to discover the world like never before.

Predjama castle.

Predjama Castle is a magnificent Renaissance castle. What makes this castle unique is the fact that it is built inside a cave. The castle used to be home to Erazem Lueger, a knight, who was known as the local Robin Hood. Available audio tours reveal the exciting life of Lueger and the history of the Predjama Castle. Tours of a secret tunnel, which served as a supply route when the castle was under siege, are also available when scheduled in advance.

Postojna Cave

The Slovenian underground hides thousands of caves . Among those, twenty-two are open to the public, and Postojna Cave is the most visited. A 90-minute guided tour takes visitors through caverns, halls, and passages that were carved by the Pivka River. Inside the cave, there are beautiful karst formations, some of which are millions of years old. Several times a year concert events are set inside the cave, and as a part of Postojna Cave’s Christmas traditions, a nativity scene with live actors is set in December.

Lake Bled is one of the most visited attractions in Slovenia. The beautiful views of the lake and the small island it surrounds brings thousands of visitors every year. The best way to reach the island is taking pletna , a traditional gondola in the Bled area. Once on the island, visitors must walk up ninety-nine steps to reach the island’s church. It is considered good luck to ring the church’s bell when visiting the island.

Franja Partisan Hospital

Franja Hospital served as Partisan Hospital during World War II. Located in the Pasica gorge, it was hidden from the enemy and saved the lives of many men and women. After the war, Franja became a museum and was open to visitors until a devastating flood in 2007. Luckily, the hospital was reconstructed, and the new hospital is almost an exact replica of the old hospital. Now, the fourteen cabins that form Franja Partisan Hospital are once again open to visitors.

Lipica Stud Farm

Lipica Stud Farm has been breeding Lipizzaner horses since the sixteenth century. Once used by royals for their private stables, the farm is now open to visitors and allows them to admire this beautiful breed of horse. When visiting the Lipica Stud Farm, guests can stroll through the barns and join one of the farm’s guided tours. Three times a week the Classical Riding School performs, and guests can see the Lipizzaner horses in action.

Triglav National Park

The Triglav National Park , named after the country’s tallest mountain, is the only National Park in Slovenia. With beautiful views of the mountains, hills, lakes, rivers, and pastures, this park is a nature lover’s paradise. Aside from hiking, Triglav National Park offers great activities such as kayaking, rafting, skydiving, and parasailing.

Mercury Mine Idrija

When still operating, Mercury Mine in Idrija was the second largest mercury mine in the world. Now, it is an excellent museum that takes visitors underground and introduces them to the life of Slovenian miners. The entrance to the museum is through Anthony’s Main Road, which was built in the sixteenth century and is one of the oldest mine shaft entrances in Europe. The historical importance of the Mercury Mine in Idrija is the reason that the mine was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2012.

Salt Fields in Sečovlje Salina Nature Park

The Salt pans in the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park are one of the few places in the world where sea salt is still produced by using a centuries-old method. When walking on the park trails, visitors can observe salt being harvested manually by local workers. For those who wish to pamper themselves, Lepa Vida Thalasso Spa offers massages and baths where the healing powers of the sea salt are used.

Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle offers the most beautiful views of Ljubljana. This sixteenth-century castle is easily accessible by foot or by taking a tram. On the top, the café and a restaurant in the castle’s courtyard are a perfect place to rest and enjoy a cup of coffee or taste traditional food. Ljubljana Castle also hosts several permanent exhibitions and offers guided tours.

The Oldest Vine in the World

In the Lent area of Maribor , Slovenia’s second-largest city grows the oldest grape-producing vine in the world. Records show that the vine has been growing on the façade of an old house since the seventeenth century. The house is now a visitor’s center where guests can taste the best wines of the Maribor region. In honor of the oldest vine, The Old Vine Festival is organized every year. The festival starts in September with picking the grapes off the vine, and it ends with a big celebration on St. Martin’s Day when the must turns into wine.

Fancy a wine tasting? Our nine-day trip to Portugal includes vineyard visits in the Douro Valley and the Alentejo region. Alternately, join our nine-day adventure to Georgia , and learn about the ancient winemaking practices in the Kakheti region.

Church of the Holy Trinity

The Romanesque-style Church of the Holy Trinity is located in a small village, Hrastovlje. It is most known for its seven-meter long fresco, The Dance of Death (Danse Mac) . Until 1949, when discovered by Jože Pohlen, this magnificent piece of art was hidden under a thick layer of plaster. The Dance of Death portrays eleven skeletons leading eleven people (of different social status) to their grave, with the twelfth skeleton holding the coffin open for them. This art piece was created to remind people that we are all equal in God’s eyes.

Kobarid Museum

The Kobarid Museum was founded with the purpose of preserving, presenting, and researching the history of World War I in Slovenia. Most of the museum is dedicated to the Soča Front, the most important front on the Slovenian territory in the Great War. The rooms of the museum present visitors with photos documenting the horrors of the front, military charts, diaries and maps, and two large relief displays showing the front lines. Visitors can explore the museum on their own, or they can partake in one of the guided tours.

Planica Nordic Center

Planica is home to the biggest ski jumping hill in the world. For over twenty years it has hosted one of the most important ski jumping competitions in the world. In 2015 Planica received a much-needed update, and the new Planica Nordic Center was built. Aside from the ski jumps the center also features an athletics stadium, a zipline, a wind tunnel, cycling and walking paths, and a visitor’s center. Planica zipline has the steepest descent in the world, which creates the sensations that ski jumping champions feel when flying through the air.

Stična Abbey

Stična Abbey, built in 1136, is home to the oldest monastery in Slovenia. This monastery houses the Slovenian Museum of Religion, which presents the Stična Monastery’s history and the history of the Roman Catholic religion in Slovenia. The monks at Stična Abbey are excellent tea-makers, and because of this, the monastery houses a little tearoom, where visitors can try and buy tea.

Solkan Bridge

The Solkan Bridge, located near Nova Gorica, is a great place to view the turquoise Soča River and the beautiful Soča Valley. The bridge also holds the world record for the longest train bridge built solely out of stone. For the truly adventurous, bungee jumping off the bridge is the most unique way to admire the beauty of the Soča Valley.

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15 Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia You Must Visit

Boasting vast tracts of green forests and beautiful mountain peaks, Slovenia has no shortage of amazing places for visitors to get lost in and fun things to do. Its age-old towns and awe-inspiring Baroque buildings offer architectural eye candy for travelers all around the world. So what are the most beautiful places to visit in Slovenia that should be added to every person’s bucket list?

Located in Central Europe, right at the center of many major trade routes between East Europe and West Europe, Slovenia features a vibrant culture with traces of Slavic, Germanic, and Romantic influences. The country is mostly-mountainous, allowing it to offer some of the best mountain views in Europe. If you have not yet decided where to visit in this stunning country, these 15 beautiful destinations will blow your mind!

The Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia to Visit and Best Things to Do

Ljubljana .

It is indeed rare for a large city, let alone a country’s capital, to be featured on travelers’ most beautiful lists, but Ljubljana is definitely a deserving mention. Filled with things to do, there is a bit of something for everyone in this city. Featuring old quarters interwoven with green zones and newer urban areas, the city almost never feels too stuffy or too modern to explore. As you stroll around the city, don’t be intimidated by the local dragon statues. They are modeled after a monster that has been slain by the famous hero Jason and his crew while on their way to retrieve the Golden Fleece. 

The best way to enjoy a panoramic view of the city is atop the Ljubljana Castle, which sits in the middle of the city. You can take a cable car to the top if climbing is not your thing.

Arguably the most beautiful landmark in Slovenia, Lake Bled seems like a magical lagoon stepping out from an age-old fairytale, inviting travelers to cast away their worries and indulge in a truly out-of-this-world experience. Overlooking the lake on a cliff is the 11th-century Bled Castle with all its splendor, which will offer you a beautiful panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding wilderness. 

The small island in the middle of the lake houses the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria, famous for its winding stairs and lovely bell towers. Tourists can rent a boat and row to the island, so don’t hesitate to organize a short picnic with your friends on the church’s ground.

As you visit Lake Bled , don’t forget to take a chance to taste the local dessert, Bled cake. The heady rum, combined with refreshing lemon rinds, will certainly make that dish an unforgettable experience.

Although it is not as popular as other cities in Slovenia, Maribor is still quite on top of the list of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. Known for its wine-making industry, Maribor currently houses the oldest grape vine in the world. The amazing thing is that the vine still produces fruits, and locals are still making wine out of it. Though, it might be difficult to get your hands on a bottle as this kind of wine has limited availability.

At the city’s historic center, Main Square, lies the Plague Column, a 300-year-old monument erected in memorial of victims of the plague. At 900 years old, the town’s cathedral, the Maribor Cathedral is perhaps one of the oldest churches in the country. It was originally a Romanesque cathedral, like most of its contemporaries, but later renovations have added many Gothic elements to it, making the cathedral a real treat for fans of architecture. 

Škocjan Caves

Boasting a breathtaking system of underground caves, the Škocjan Caves is among the most popular tourist destinations and considered one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. The entire underground cave complex has been considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, and it attracts as many as 100,000 visitors per year. The caves are located in a subterranean canyon, and there is a bridge connecting the two sides, allowing you to traverse the site more easily. Inside each cave are stalactites and stalagmites, as well as many strange rock formations that will take your breath away.

If you are looking to unwind a bit and enjoy some quality time with your friends, Laško will be the destination you are looking for. As a quaint spa town in Eastern Slovenia, Laško offers the serenity you need to get away from the worries of our modern life. Its water springs are also said to have healing properties as well, making it a very famous destination for locals and international travelers.

Škofja Loka

A stunning, fairy-tail town stuck in medieval times, Skofja Loka is truly one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. Located a short 30 minute drive from Ljubljana, this small town surrounded by mountains is the perfect day trip. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets, visit the castle or sample some delicious local cuisine in one of the many restaurants. There is a bit of something for everyone who visits Skofja Loka.

Kranjska Gora and the Zelenci Nature Reserve

Nestled atop the Julian Alps and located just about an hour away from Ljubljana, Kranjska Gora is an alpine resort town that really comes to life when the cold winter winds begin sweeping through the country. Featuring numerous scenic views such as the Vršič Mountain Pass, the town is a perfect spot to begin a hiking trip up the Julian Alps. In winter, there are plenty of alpine activities that will keep you busy throughout your stay.

Logarska Dolina

This destination is an alpine valley bordering vast tracts of ancient coniferous forests, making it a great getaway spot for those who look for fresh alpine air. The valley is divided into three main areas: lower, central, and upper. The lower and central parts of the valley feature lush and scenic meadows, while the upper part is where the ancient and untouched forests reside. This valley is often used as the base camp for those who wish to brave the peaks of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps.

Predjama Castle

Although all castles in Slovenia are certainly worth taking a look at, the Predjama Castle certainly takes the cake for being one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. Its amazing engineering feat and interesting story add to the intrigue. Built within the mouth of a mountain cave, the castle was the home to the famous knight Erasmus of Lueg, a Robin Hood-like figure who robbed the rich and gave money to the poor. The most interesting thing is that the castle was built seven centuries ago, making it an amazing achievement in engineering.

The jewel of Slovenian Riviera, Piran, is situated atop a scenic peninsula that offers unobstructed views of the Adriatic Sea, charming travelers from all over the world with its quaint and rustic terracotta houses. It only takes you about one to two hours to fully explore every nook and cranny of the village, so don’t hesitate to immerse yourself in the task. Once you have gotten a bit tired, take a moment’s respite at a cliffside café, and enjoy the beautiful sea view. 

Kostanjevica na Krki

Located in the Dolenjska region of Slovenia lies the historic town of Kostanjevica na Krki, one of the oldest and most scenic villages in the country. It is situated on a small island in the middle of the Krka, a unique location that has adorned the village with a serene atmosphere that will calm your mind and push all your worries away. In summers, tourists can even swim in the river or hire a canoe to enjoy a trip down the river. 

Lake Bohinj

While it does not receive as much publicity as Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj is actually the largest in the country. Like Lake Bled, it is also one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia to visit. Its rustic beauty, untouched by the lights of a big city, makes a trip to this destination worth the while. Activities to do here include taking a stroll along the lake’s perimeter or its meadows and stargazing when the night comes. The lake’s remote location allows stargazers to easily appreciate the beauty of the night sky.

Triglav National Park

As it is the country’s only national park, it is hard to cross out the Triglav National Park on your itinerary. It is home to several of the most beautiful places in Slovenia on this list. Boasting vast tracts of gorgeous forests, the park is a famous destination for trekkers and hikers who want to get lost in nature. It is also located less than an hour’s drive away from Ljubljana, so expect a lot of human activities, especially during the warmer months of the year. That said, if you wish to tackle some of the best hiking trails in Eastern Europe, this park is definitely the right spot for you.

Vintgar Gorge

This destination is situated in Triglav National Park, and it is only about 5km away from the famous Lake Bled, so it is quite easy to be added to any itinerary. Featuring imposing waterfalls adorned by lush and verdant vegetation, the gorge is perhaps the most magical place in the whole country. When looking for the most beautiful places in Slovenia to visit, this one should be at the top of your list. There are boardwalks that will allow you to explore most of the site, but to fully enjoy the views that the gorge has to offer, you might have to walk on gravel paths from time to time.

Goriska Brda

Lovingly nicknamed the “Tuscany of Slovenia”, Goriska Brda is a lush wine-growing region with plenty of scenic landmarks. It is considered to all who visit to be one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. Boasting a landscape of unending vineyards and fruit orchards, the region is a famous destination for tourists who are looking for a relaxing and calming trip to the countryside. After all, there probably are few things that can beat sipping local wines as you watch the sun go down on the horizon.

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Ten slovenian attractions that must be added to your itinerary.

From the iconic Alpine lake, underground extravaganza, treasures of UNESCO heritage to the queen among the vines – visit Slovenia’s shiniest of gems.

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Our mission is to inspire your visit to Slovenia by sharing the excellent and unique experiences Slovenian tourism has to offer at www.slovenia.info . Discover inspiring stories and plan for a time when we are able to travel safely again. Let’s be responsible today for a better tomorrow.

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Slovenia: green attraction

Slovenia, with its diverse landscapes, is an attraction in itself. Its commitment to green and sustainable development resulted in the title of the first green tourist destination in the world. But that’s not all, it is gradually drawing the attention of the leading global tourism media, which place its most remarkable features on their lists of top destinations. Although you can find breath-taking treasures of nature and culture at almost every step, we showcase some of the most visible gems that must be added to your itinerary.

Bled – an image of paradise under the Alps

For centuries, Bled and Lake Bled, which boasts the only natural island in Slovenia, have been attracting people seeking special beauty. Traditional boats called pletna take visitors to see the island and the church, which has a bell that plays a special ode to love. The most beautiful view of the lake, its island and the surrounding Alpine peaks can be enjoyed from the castle towering over the lake on a lofty cliff. The beauty of Bled was also noticed by the media giants Lonely Planet and Daily Mail, which placed it among their top 10 global destinations.

Postojna Cave – the most frequently visited world of underground wonders

Postojna Cave is considered to be one of the most frequented tourist caves in the world, and rightfully so. An underground train takes visitors along the first cave railway in the world to the interior of the cave among several thousand-year-old speleothems, through grand halls and past hidden tunnels. The 24-kilometre long Postojna Cave is the place where you can meet "dragon's babies" in person, the place where unbelievable creatures hatch: the proteus or the "human fish". Predjama Castle, the largest cave castle in the world, can be found near the cave, where the legend of the fearless robber baron, Erazem of Predjama, is still alive.

Lipica – birthplace of the Lipizzan horse

The original stud farm for the noble white horses has been maintained in Lipica in the Karst region since 1580. The oldest European stud farm to breed the same horse breed without interruption is a cultural and historical monument, which impresses visitors with its equestrian experiences and special Karst landscape.

Piran – salty surprises of the Mediterranean

The Piran Salt Pans, where salt and the world-class fleur de sel are still harvested using age-old methods, were the reason that Piran, the most beautiful town on the Slovenian coast, flourished. The picturesque medieval town, the entirety of which is protected as a cultural and historical monument, adjoins two landscape parks. Visitors can see one of them from the highest cliff on the Adriatic Sea.

The land of UNESCO World Heritage

Škocjan Caves with the largest subterranean canyon, Idrija and its once world-renowned mercury mine, ancient beech forests and the Ljubljana Marshes with its heritage of an ancient pile-dweller culture where the world’s oldest wooden wheel with an axle was found – these are but few of the special features of Slovenia that have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Soča River Valley – peaceful stories along the gorgeous river

In addition to countless natural sights, the valley of the emerald green Soča River, which is considered to be one of the most beautiful and best preserved Alpine rivers in Europe, also preserves the shocking heritage of World War I. This was the scene of the Isonzo Front, the bloodiest mountain battle in history. Above the valley stretches Triglav National Park, the largest Slovenian protected natural area, where Paths of Peace can also be found.

Velika Planina Plateau – a journey into the living shepherd tradition

At the end of spring, cow bells echo in Velika planina announcing the arrival of cattle and their shepherds. The fairy-tale plateau with one of the largest shepherd’s settlements in Europe attracts visitors to learn about the interesting life on mountain pastures and try dairy delicacies prepared by the shepherds. Enjoy a stroll in the meadows, a longer hike along the plateau or a mountain biking tour.

The Logar Valley – the Alpine beauty in the embrace of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps

The Logar Valley is one of the most beautiful Alpine glacial valleys in Europe. The harmonious balance between tradition, people and nature, which can be found in the Solčavsko region, is exceptional and very rare. A retreat in the peaceful surroundings of the landscape park can be spent hiking, cycling, riding horses, embarking on a photo safari, etc. The park was the recipient of CIPRA’s Future in the Alps Award for successful management of the protected area.

The Old Vine in Maribor – the queen of all vines

In Lent, in the old town centre of Maribor, the oldest vine in the world, can be found. It is more than 400 years old and is the only plant with its own museum in the Old Vine House. Many events are organised in Maribor throughout the year to honour the queen of vines, such as the Pruning of the Old Vine, the Harvest, St Martin’s Day Celebration and the Old Vine Festival. And, believe it or not, the Old Vine even has its own anthem that the people of Maribor like to sing.

Ljubljana – the lively green capital of Slovenia

Ljubljana is the green capital of a green country. With regard to green public areas per capita, Ljubljana is globally ranked at the very top. The image of the town next to the Ljubljanica River with picturesque bridges and a marketplace was designed by the famous architect Jože Plečnik. A powerful castle reigns on the hill overlooking the town centre, which visitors can ascend on foot or with a funicular. The castle houses unforgettable experiences and superb cuisine, in addition to various interesting events.

VIDEO: Must-see attractions in green Slovenia!

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Where can you find Slovenia’s most valuable gems?

Find the legendary sights and the UNESCO World Heritage in Slovenia.

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Perhaps you didn’t know…

Not only will Slovenia’s attractions inspire you with their beauty, they will also astound you with their interesting stories and facts, which are just waiting to be discovered.

The world’s first underground post office opened in Postojna Cave in 1899. 

Not far from Lake Bled on the slopes of the Jelovica Plateau, the Jama pod Babjim zobom Cave, the largest speleothem cave in the Julian Alps and one of the oldest caves in Slovenia, can be found and this magnificent natural attraction was formed during an ice age.

In sea depths, some 350 metres off the Piran shore, the so-called underwater Mt Triglav (Mt Triglav being the highest peak/point of Slovenia) is located. At 39.56 metres, making it the lowest point in the Slovenian sea.

The elegant white Lipizzan horses, considered to be one of the oldest horse breeds, are born dark and obtain their white coat with age.

The Martel Hall in Škocjan Caves is considered to be the largest underground hall in Slovenia so far discovered and is one of the largest in the world.

A special trnič cheese of distinctive shape is made at Velika planina, which is also known as the cheese of love as the shepherds used to give it to their sweethearts.

Potočka Zijalka Cave can be found above the Logar Valley, where the second oldest sewing needle in the world was found among other things.

The Old Vine in Maribor’s Lent endured numerous historical and natural upheavals. It failed to succumb even to the phylloxera louse, since it has its roots deep under the Drava River gravel.

In Ljubljana, visitors frequently come across an image of a dragon. It refers to the legend about Jason and the Argonauts, who also stopped at the Ljubljana Marshes during their famous journey, where Jason was said to defeat a fearsome dragon.

The scenic beauty of the Soča River Valley also inspired the creators of the film, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian. Several exciting scenes of the famous film were shot beside the Soča River.

The best boutique experiences of Slovenian attractions

The attractions inspire people who live in their vicinity. They are inspired to create unique, boutique and authentic experiences through which they discover stories and reveal the hidden mysteries that evolved around the most visible Slovenia’s gems.

A good breakfast sets you up for a day of exploration and fun in the city. Begin your day with a real Ljubljana breakfast and enjoy the always-lively...

Yummy Market Walk

A documentary experience that opens the door to secret rooms where unusual hotel activities took place during the Iron Curtain period.

Secret rooms of the Hotel Jama

Turn back time and experience the festive season and Slovenian traditions as they used to be in the days of Prešeren on an authentic Gorenjska homestead.

Sound of holiday

Learn about the story of the best farmed fish in the world and enjoy its incredible taste. 

An unforgettable day at the Fonda Fish Garden

An adrenaline-fuelled adventure in the most famous karst cave in Europe, which will transform you from tourists into explorers.

In the footsteps of the first cave explorers - In the footsteps of Luka Čeč

An epic tour with the architect of UNESCO's Ljubljana. An intimate experience of the visionary master and his great mind.

Master Plečnik

Maribor’s mix of good food, wine and music.

Rock'n'Roll of flavours

Find your inspiration for travelling through the most visible, unique Instagram Stories on social networks @FeelSlovenia.  Let the Instagram Stories take you through places and first-person adventures, colourful graphics, handwritten notes and an innovative combination of various visual media.

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Luscious green nature, crystal clear waters and jaw-dropping miracles of nature will excite you. Find your inspiration and relaxation in the idyllic surroundings of green Slovenia.

Spacious apartments on the edge of the forest, with unlimited swimming and a varied programme. Spend a thermal vacation in the Tuhinj Valley. We have...

Apartment rental in Terme Snovik

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Escape to the picturesque Idrija countryside in the idyllic surroundings of Hiška Na Griču. In Idrija, experience the mysterious underground world of...

Maribor offers a treasure trove of gastronomic experiences, opportunities for socialising and active relaxation. Taste the finest Štajerska wines, explore...

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Treat yourself to a stay at the Dolenjske Toplice Spa, where you can indulge in the swimming pools and saunas of the Vitarium & Spa Beauty Wellness Centre,...

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The rich Adventures of Kekec Package includes numerous family activities and an entertainment programme for the youngest. Creative workshops, film night,...

Adventures of Kekec in the Ramada Hotel & Suites

The most entertaining way to get to know Ljubljana for two! Two nights and three playful experiences: the Unlock® adventurous city tour, escape from a...

A perfect weekend getaway for two! Two nights and three playful adventures! "Escape Ljubljana C" package

A weekend getaway, in more ways than one, for the whole family! Escape from boredom, save Ljubljana in an exciting escape game where you play the lead...

Escape from boredom! Family escape room adventure and overnight stay: "Escape Ljubljana A" package

What else makes slovenia so special.

In addition to the most appealing Slovenian attractions, other local sites worth visiting await you in every region and town of green Slovenia – from the remarkable wonders of nature to impressive cultural monuments. Exploring Slovenia’s beautiful sites combines well with selected cuisine and pampering in natural health resorts.

Architectural sights

Discover Slovenia's greatest architectural treasures.

Food and wine

Love is experienced through the stomach.

Nature parks

Discover a wealth of various plant and tree species.

Slovenia’s waters

Discover the freshness and purity of Slovenia’s waters.

Spas and health resorts

Rest, relax and enjoy the soothing power of thermal waters and wellness treatments.

Green story of Slovenia

Plan your holidays in green.

Iconic attractions

The images of Slovenia that will leave a lasting impression.

Cities and destinations

Small towns for big adventures.

Sights as seen by the visitors

Each pair of eyes views beauty in their own way. In every part of the day. In every season. Check out how the greatest Slovenian sights are seen by visitors at @feelslovenia and share your views by posting your photos and tagging them with #ifeelsLOVEnia and #myway.

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• Printed promotional materials, prospectuses, leaflets, brochures (solely for the purposes of free distribution);
• Promotional events in the Republic of Slovenia and abroad (e.g., tourism fairs, exchanges, workshops, presentations, etc.) that are exclusively or predominantly intended to promote Slovenia as a tourist destination.

The above forms of use include solely a free-of-charge form of using materials for the purposes of promoting tourism activities and services in the Republic of Slovenia or presenting Slovenia as a tourist destination.

Prohibited forms of using materials/commercial use of materials

Using materials for commercial purposes , such as reproduction on postcards, T-shirts, books, magnets, embedding audio-visual inserts in one’s own promotional materials, all forms of external advertising (stationary billboards, digital advertising, etc.), use in advertisements unrelated to the promotion of Slovenia as a tourist destination, use on websites that are not intended to present Slovenian tourism products and services and similar activities, is not included in these General Terms and Conditions and is prohibited .

It is strictly prohibited to use materials on media and distribution channels that are marketed or sold to users (books, school textbooks, other commercial publishing, calendars, postcards, fast-moving consumer goods (clothes and other products), advertising of non-tourism products and services, reproduction of materials on vehicles, etc.).

For more information regarding permitted forms of use, please contact us at  [email protected] .

Audio-visual materials (video)

Using audio-visual materials is allowed only in the unchanged form available in the Media Library . Transformations, adaptations, clips, embeddings, and instances of using individual shots in one’s own audio-visual works, even if intended for promotional purposes, is prohibited.

Breaches of General Terms and Conditions

Any breach of economic and/or moral rights of the authors of photographs or audio-visual recordings may constitute a criminal offence and may result in substantive and damage liability of the user.

The entity breaching copyright pertaining to the material shall reimburse the Slovenian Tourist Board for all the damage incurred to it due to the breach of rights.

The Slovenian Tourist Board shall not be liable for any use of photos and video recordings that is contrary to these rules. The user of the material shall be entirely responsible for the content and manner of use.

General provisions

These Media Library General Terms and Conditions shall apply for all instances of using the material unless the Slovenian Tourist Board and user agree on special terms of using the material in advance and in writing for a specific instance of using the material.

These General Terms and Conditions shall be subject to occasional amendments. Upon the user’s publication of the material, the version of the General Terms and Conditions that is current at that particular time shall apply for the use of materials. If the user disagrees with the amendments made to these General Terms and Conditions, they shall immediately cease using the material and remove it from all media and other communication channels.

For more information, please contact us at  [email protected] .

Slovenian Tourist Board Ljubljana, 1 June 2022

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