WHAT TO DO IN SLOVENIA?

Slovenia is a hidden gem in the heart of Europe, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or someone looking to relax in nature, Slovenia has something for everyone. Here are the must-see attractions that will make your trip to Slovenia unforgettable:

1. Blejskim jezerom

One of the most iconic spots in Slovenia, Bled is famous for its crystal-clear lake and a small island with a charming church in the middle. Visitors can take a traditional “pletna” boat to the island or hike up to Bled Castle for stunning panoramic views.

What to do in Bled:

• Take a traditional “pletna” boat to Bled Island and ring the ”wishing bell”.
• Hike up to Blejskega gradu for panoramic views and a visit the museum.
• Enjoy rowing, swimming or cycling around the Bleda lake.
• Try the famous Bled Cream Cake that has been a local favorite for over 60 years at a local café.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Visit the Ojstrica and Mala Osojnica viewpoints for breathtaking sunrise views.
• Explore the Pokljuka Plateau, a beautiful forested area with hidden trails.
• Discover the Iglica Waterfall, a small but charming cascade near Bohinjska Bela.

 

2. Ljubljana – The Capital City

Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, is a vibrant and green city, known for its charming old town, picturesque bridges and lively atmosphere. The Ljubljana Castle, standing on the top of a hill, offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Don’t forget to stroll along the Ljubljanica River, where you’ll find outdoor cafés and restaurants.

What to do in Ljubljana:

• Visit Ljubljana Castle and take the funicular railway to the top.
• Explore Tivoli Park for a relaxing day in nature.
• Take a boat tour along the Ljubljanica River.
• Wander through Ljubljana’s central market and the charming streets of the old town.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Rent a kayak and paddle along the Ljubljanica River.
• Visit Metelkova, an alternative cultural center full of street art.
• Try Slovenian craft beers at local microbreweries.
• Explore Trnovo Beach, a hidden spot where locals sunbathe and swim.
• Take a culinary tour to discover local delicacies like Carniolan sausage and potica.

Fun Fact: Ljubljana was named the European Green Capital in 2016, thanks to its eco-friendly initiatives and parks.

3. The Soča Valley

Known for its stunning emerald green waters, the Soča River is a paradise for outdoor activities. The valley is perfect for kayaking, rafting, fishing, biking and hiking. It’s also a historical site, with remnants of World War I battlefields still visible along the riverbanks.

What to do in Soča valley:

• Go kajakom ali raftanjem in the emerald waters of the Soča River.
• Hike the scenic trails or take a leisurely bike ride along the river.
• Try poletom z jadralnim padalom over breathtaking landscapes.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Discover hidden WWI bunkers and trenches.
• Visit Bovec Cheese Farm for a unique local experience.

4. Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. With rugged mountains, sparkling lakes, and lush valleys, it offers countless hiking trails and breathtaking views. The highlight is Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia.

What to do in Triglav National Park:

• Hike the scenic trails, including the ascent to Mount Triglav.
• Go mountain biking ali rock climbing.
• Explore Lake Bled, Bohinj in Dolina Soče and enjoy water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Try poletom z jadralnim padalom over green valleys with panoramic mountain views.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Try canyoning in Fratarica Canyon, a hidden paradise for adventurers.
• Go stargazing in the remote areas of the park.
• Experience sheep farming in the traditional villages of the Julian Alps.
• Discover hidden waterfalls, such as slapom Peričnik in Slap Virje.

Fun Fact: Triglav is considered a symbol of Slovenia, and Slovenian citizens  ”have to” climb the mountain at least once in their lifetime to ”officialy become Slovenians”.

5. Postojnsko Jamo

One of the largest karst cave systems in the world, Postojna Cave is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers. Explore the 24-kilometer-long cave system, which includes a train ride through the chambers and fascinating limestone formations.

What to do in Postojna Cave:

• Take a train ride through the cave and explore its amazing chambers.
• Discover the fascinating underground fauna, including the world-famous Proteus.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Explore Planina Cave by kayak for a more adventurous experience.
• Hike the Postojna Cave Circular Trail, offering great views of the karst landscape.
• Try cave photography with a guided tour inside the less-touristic parts.

Fun Fact: The cave is home to the world’s only human fish (Proteus anguinus), a rare and unique species of amphibian that can live in complete darkness.

6. Predjamskega gradu

Located in the middle of a cliff, Predjama Castle is one of the most dramatic and picturesque castles in Europe. The castle has a fascinating history, including its use as a hideout for a rebellious knight named Erazem.

What to do in Predjama Castle:

• Take a guided tour of the castle to learn about its history and its strategic location.
• Explore the castle’s caves and secret passages.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Hike the Predjama Nature Trail, which leads to hidden viewpoints.
• Experience a medieval dinner at a local restaurant inspired by the castle’s history.
• Visit the nearby Rak Škocjan Valley, a lesser-known natural gem.

7. Lake Bohinj

Less crowded than Lake Bled but equally beautiful, Lake Bohinj is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Surrounded by the majestic Julian Alps, the lake offers opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and hiking.

What to do at Lake Bohinj:

• Go swimming, kajakom, or supom on the lake.
• Hike to the Savica Waterfall, one of Slovenia’s most popular natural attractions.
• Take a cable car up Vogel Mountain for skiing in winter or hiking in summer.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Hike to Mostnica Gorge – A stunning but lesser-known canyon with crystal-clear waters and hidden waterfalls.
• Rock Climbing at Pod Skalco – A natural climbing wall near the lake, perfect for both beginners and experienced climbers.
• Visit the Alpine Dairy Museum – Learn about traditional cheese-making in the region.
• Explore the hidden Konjščica Valley – A breathtaking, quiet spot above Bohinj, perfect for a peaceful nature escape.

8. Škocjan Caves

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Škocjan Caves are known for their vast underground chambers and impressive rivers. The Škocjan Caves have been formed by the Reka River and are one of the largest known underground systems in the world.

What to do in Škocjan Caves:

• Take a guided tour to explore the underground rivers, chambers, and stunning formations.
• Visit the Škocjan Caves Regional Park to enjoy the surrounding landscape.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Walk the Škocjan Education Trail – A circular route that takes you through meadows, sinkholes, and viewpoints above the caves.
• Visit the Mahorčič Cave & Marinič Cave – Two smaller but equally fascinating caves nearby.
• Climb Velika Dolina and Mala Dolina – The two massive sinkholes next to the caves offer great hiking trails.
• Explore Divača Cave – A lesser-visited but beautiful cave with impressive stalactites.
• Visit the Mušja Jama (Fly Cave) WWII Memorial – A historic and hidden cave with an interesting past.

Fun Fact: The caves are so extensive that they have their own microclimate, creating a magical underground world filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes.

9. Vintgarja

Located near Bled, Vintgar Gorge is a stunning natural attraction with crystal-clear waters, towering cliffs, and lush greenery. Visitors can walk along wooden boardwalks that take them through the gorge, offering stunning views of the river and waterfalls.

What to do in Vintgar Gorge:

• Hike along the boardwalks for spectacular views of the gorge.
• Take photos of the breathtaking waterfalls, especially the famous Šum Waterfall.
• Enjoy a peaceful walk in the surrounding forest.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Visit the Hom Hill Viewpoint, a hidden panoramic spot.
• Go fishing in the Radovna River.
• Explore Pokljuka Gorge, a quieter alternative to Vintgar Gorge.

10. Piran

This charming coastal town on the Adriatic Sea is known for its Venetian architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful sunsets. Stroll through the old town, visit the impressive St. George’s Church, and relax by the sea.

What to do in Piran:

• Wander through the narrow streets and enjoy the views of the Adriatic Sea.
• Visit the St. George’s Church for its beautiful interior and panoramic views.
• Relax at the seaside or enjoy water sports like swimming in kajakom.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Take a salt spa treatment at the nearby Sečovlje Salt Pans.
• Try snorkeling or diving at Fiesa Beach.
• Walk the Moon Bay Trail for a secluded coastal view.

11. Kranjske Gore

If you’re looking for an alpine escape, Kranjska Gora is the place to be. Located in the Julian Alps, it’s a popular destination for skiing in the winter and hiking or cycling in the summer. The town also offers a charming, cozy atmosphere with beautiful lakes and mountain views.

What to do in Kranjska Gora:

• Ski in the winter or hike in the summer on one of the many trails.
• Visit jezeru Jasna for swimming and a beautiful view.
• Visit Zelenci Nature Reserve, home to a beautiful emerald-green spring.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Try summer tobogganing at the ski resort.
• Take a historical World War I hike along the Vršič Pass.

Fun Fact: Kranjska Gora hosts the annual FIS Ski World Cup, attracting top athletes from around the globe.

12. Lake Cerknica

Lake Cerknica is the largest intermittent lake in Europe, which means it appears and disappears depending on the water levels. The lake is a paradise for birdwatchers, as it attracts a wide variety of migratory birds.

What to do at Lake Cerknica:

• Birdwatching is a must at Lake Cerknica, with over 200 species of birds.
• Visit the Cerknica Museum of Lake Mysteries – A quirky and interactive museum explaining the science behind the disappearing lake.
• Walk or cycle through the disappearing lake bed.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Take a traditional “Drevak” boat ride – A rare wooden boat used by locals when the lake is full.
• Go underground in Križna Jama Cave – A breathtaking but lesser-known cave with underground lakes, best explored by boat.

13. Maribor

Slovenia’s second-largest city, Maribor, is located on the Drava River. It is known for its wine culture, with the oldest vine in the world growing in the city’s center. Maribor is also home to the Pohorje Mountains, a great place for skiing and hiking.

What to do in Maribor:

• Visit the Old Vine House to see the world’s oldest grapevine and taste local wines.
• Explore the Pohorje Mountains for skiing or hiking.
• Take a scenic walk along the Drava River.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Visit Maribor’s underground tunnels, once used as wine cellars.
• Try local pumpkin seed oil, a specialty of the region.

Fun Fact: Maribor is known for its Lent Festival, one of the largest summer festivals in Slovenia, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

14. Goriških Brd

Often called Slovenia’s Tuscany, Goriška Brda is a breathtaking region of rolling vineyards, charming villages, and world-class wines. Nestled between the Soča Valley and the Italian border, this region is a paradise for wine lovers, food enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful countryside escape.

What to do in Goriška Brda:

• Wine Tasting at Local Wineries – Visit family-run wine cellars and try the famous Rebula and Merlot wines.
• Climb the Gonjače View Tower  – Get a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire region, stretching into Italy.
• Visit Dobrovo Castle – A Renaissance-style castle housing a museum and an impressive wine cellar.
• Olive Oil & Cherry Tasting – The region is famous for its cherries and high-quality olive oil, best enjoyed at local farms.

Lesser-Known Activities:

• Bike the Brda Wine Route – A scenic cycling route through vineyards and small villages.
• Stay at a Homestay Vineyard – Experience traditional Brda hospitality by staying with a local winemaking family.
• Hike to the Krčnik Natural Bridge – A hidden natural stone bridge over a turquoise stream, perfect for nature lovers.
• Truffle Hunting – Join a local expert and their trained dog to search for the region’s hidden culinary treasures.
• Explore the Secret WWII Tunnels in Sabotin Hill – Hike to historic tunnels used during the war and enjoy breathtaking views of the Soča River.

Slovenia is a small country, but it is packed with incredible experiences waiting to be discovered. From its enchanting lakes and caves to its charming towns and historical sites, Slovenia is the perfect destination for any traveler. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of Slovenia!