From its Alpine mountains to its Mediterranean coast, Slovenia is a lesser-known destination that is well worth the detour! Full of spectacular landscapes and varied activities while benefiting from a temperate climate and reduced tourist traffic compared to other European regions, this amazing country definitely deserves a place on your bucket list! Here are our 18 favorite places to add to your travel itinerary for a first trip to Slovenia!
1. Soča Valley
There’s nothing better than a road trip through Soča Valley to start your trip in Slovenia! With its breathtaking landscapes spread over more than 96 km of the country, it’s definitely a must-see during your trip to the Julian Alps!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
An ideal playground for outdoor and adventure lovers, you can go rafting, kayaking and even canyoning in the emerald waters of the Soča River, or simply dip your feet if you want to cool off. The hiking trail to the Kozjak Waterfall is also a great way to discover the natural beauty of the area. Don’t miss the Napoleon Bridge either for breathtaking views of the mountains. For the best conditions, plan your trip in spring or summer when the valley’s waters are more abundant and sparkling.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
2. Tolmin Gorge
If you’re looking for an easy hike through one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, Tolmin Gorge should definitely be on your travel itinerary! From the lowest entry point of Triglav National Park, you’ll walk a marked trail through steep cliffs allowing you to admire the turquoise waters along the way.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
With its mystical atmosphere, this place is also one of the biggest highlights of our trip to Slovenia! Among the viewpoints not to be missed, you’ll come across the thermal springs, Dante’s cave, the Devil’s bridge as well as that of the Bear’s head. It’s a real gem to see during a getaway in the Julian Alps, if you travel between May and September!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
3. Lake Bohinj
Considered one of the greenest and lushest countries in Europe, Slovenia is home to many natural treasures, including the magnificent alpine Lake Bohinj. While tourists sometimes pass on it, Slovenians often prefer it to Lake Bled for its quieter and more remote side. Take advantage of your visit to cross its peaceful waters by boat or canoe, to fly over it in a paraglider or simply to relax during the sunset!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
As for us, we had opted for a hotel located just a few minutes walk away and we weren’t disappointed! It’s the perfect place for a peaceful stay in the heart of the mountains, with the proximity to the lake allowing many outdoor activities!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
4. Savica Waterfall
About a 10-minute drive from Lake Bohinj, you’ll also find Savica Waterfall, one of Slovenia’s most iconic waterfalls. Reachable after a 30-minutes moderate hike on a well-maintained trail, you’ll have access to a breathtaking view of its impressive 78-meter drop. Feeding into Lake Bohinj, it splits into two from an underground branch, which is why it’s called the Double Falls and why it attracts so many travelers and photographers. This idyllic waterfall also inspired one of the country’s most famous poems, called The Baptism on the Savica.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
5. Predjama Castle
Dating back over 800 years, Predjama Castle is the largest cave castle in the world according to Guinness World Records, and is said to be haunted according to legends.
Built at the mouth of a cave, its secret passages to the underground cave system once provided enormous protection for its occupants against enemy attacks. The castle was once inhabited by Erazem Predjamski, the Slovenian Robin Hood, and then by noble families until World War II. If it rings a bell, it’s because you may have seen it in movies or TV series like The Witcher!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
6. Postojna Caves
To stay on theme, by booking your entrance to Predjama Castle, you can combine your ticket with a visit to the Postojna Caves, a fascinating place not to be missed during a trip to Slovenia, located just a few minutes away by car.
Your adventure in one of the largest Slovenian underground cave systems will begin with a train ride through the impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Stretching over 24 kilometers, of which about 5 km are accessible to the public, you’ll also be able to observe the eel proteus, better known as the baby dragon! At the end of the route, you’ll also find the concert hall, a space where several symphony orchestras once performed, as well as the first and only underground post office open since 1899!
Both activities can be done on the same day without any problem and without rushing! At a cost of 42 euros/person for both activities, this is definitely a must and definitely one of our favorite activities of the trip! We couldn’t recommend it more!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
7. Lake Bled
With its spectacular, postcard-perfect landscapes, Lake Bled seems to have come straight out of a fairy tale. This alpine lake captivates many travelers and it’s easy to see why, as soon as you set foot there, you can’t help but be fascinated by its beauty.
Among the many activities you can do there, we first suggest walking on the 6-kilometer path that surrounds the lake to discover its every nook and cranny and enjoy a relaxing moment on its banks. You can also cross the lake aboard a pletna, a traditional Slovenian boat, for around 15 euros/person, or rent a canoe to go to Bled Island. Heated by thermal springs, a swim in Lake Bled can also be enjoyable if the weather permits.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
If you prefer cultural visits, you can explore Bled Castle and enjoy an incredible view from the top. Don’t miss the opportunity to try a piece of the famous Bled cream cake, either at the castle, in one of the many cafés in the city or in Kavarna Park, where it originated. A real treat!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
If you prefer more intense hikes, you can opt for the Mala Osojnica hike, where an incredible panorama well worth the effort awaits you! For a gentler walk, without compromising on the beauty of the natural landscapes, add the Vintgar Gorge to your schedule. Finally, for an activity that is out of the ordinary, try the famous Bled toboggan, accessible during the summer season.
8. Piran
We couldn’t travel to Slovenia without visiting Istria, this sublime region in the south of the country! Nestled on the edge of the Adriatic Sea, we were charmed by its Mediterranean and relaxing atmosphere! We first stopped in Piran, where we explored the old town, enjoyed the sun on a terrace overlooking the water and walked along the coastal path connecting several other pretty towns in the region! We recommend a stop at Tartini Square and a stroll through its picturesque streets to the city walls to soak up its rhythm.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
9. Izola
We then continued our escapade to Izola, a perfect town for a picnic by the water, tasting excellent gelatos and even taking a little dip in the Adriatic Sea from Svetilni Beach before heading back home! This charming coastal town is ideal for travelers looking for tranquility. You can stroll through its cobbled streets, explore its Roman ruins and admire the panoramic views from its belvedere.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
10. Strunjan Nature Reserve
Also nestled on the Slovenian coast, the Strunjan Nature Reserve and Moon Bay Beach offer an immersion in unspoiled nature. The steep cliffs overlooking the Adriatic Sea and the breathtaking panoramas will delight hiking enthusiasts. The crystal clear waters of Moon Bay Beach are also perfect for swimming, SUP and relaxing.
11. Karst Vineyards
Ideal for wine lovers, the Slovenian Karst region was a nice surprise for us! When booking our accommodation, we knew we wouldn’t be far from the vineyards, but the photos didn’t show that we would be directly in the heart of it!
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
The region’s Mediterranean climate is perfect for producing delicious, ruby-colored Terrano wines made from the Refosco grape. Beyond wine tastings, you can also explore centuries-old wineries, admire rolling hills, and even participate in the harvest depending on the time of year you travel. Located near the Adriatic coast, it’s a great region to visit in the fall, when the vineyards are in full swing.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
12. Ljubljana
After the Julian Alps and the Mediterranean coast, we headed to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital, to spend a few days there! We really liked this beautiful city, which may charm you too with its friendly atmosphere and its many treasures to discover.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Start your getaway by crossing the Ljubljanica River by boat to explore the city from a different perspective. Next, climb up to Ljubljana Castle for a stunning panoramic view, then enjoy a coffee or cocktail on the terrace of Nobotnicnik, the city’s first skyscraper. Stroll around Prešeren Square to admire its pretty pink Church of the Annunciation and its famous Triple Bridge, then go dragon hunting via Dragon Bridge, one of the most striking representations of this Ljubljana icon.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
Then continue your stay with a gourmet stop at the central outdoor market to get a gelato, before going for a stroll in the heart of the gardens of Tivoli Park. Also take advantage of your stay in the Slovenian capital to try the fresh milk vending machine, another particularity of the city. Coming from local farms, you can fill a recyclable one-liter bottle for less than 2 euros!
13. Vršič Pass
If you enjoy mountain road trips and are not afraid of heights, you’ll probably want venture to the Vršič Pass during your trip to Slovenia. At 1,611 meters above sea level, it’s considered the highest mountain pass in the country and is a must-do for a summer getaway through the Julian Alps.
Offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, this winding road winds through the mountains through more than 50 tight hairpin bends. Take advantage of the many viewpoints to capture unforgettable photos, but only take this road if you are an experienced driver.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
14. Kranjska Gora
Nestled at the foot of Triglav National Park, Kranjska Gora is an alpine village that is sure to please sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. Offering impressive views of Slovenia’s mountains, you can enjoy its magnificent hiking trails in the summer and its ski slopes in the winter. It’s also an excellent starting point for exploring the Dolinka River, famous for its clear waters and rafting opportunities. It was quite chilly when we visited, but we still took the opportunity to dip our feet in it while admiring the scenery.
Crédit photo: The Storytellers MTL
15. Lipica
If you’re passionate about horse riding, you should definitely add Lipica to your Slovenia itinerary. Bred in this southwest region since the 16th century, you’ll find the famous Lipizzans, these elegant white horses in their original estate.
For around 18 euros per person, you can take a guided tour of the stables in this historic center, see impressive dressage demonstrations and stroll through the estate’s picturesque gardens.
16. Škocjan Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Škocjan Caves will offer you an unforgettable adventure in the karst depths of Slovenia. Home to one of the largest underground canyons in the world, the visit to these caverns lasts about two hours. It’s the perfect activity to do between May and September to cool off while discovering a fascinating place that will take your breath away.
17. Logar Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Kamnik Alps, Logar Valley is a true haven of peace in nature. One of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Europe, you can admire the imposing Rinka waterfall, as well as walk through landscapes as green as bucolic, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The Logar Valley trail will also allow you to explore a preserved natural path, home to many rare plants.
18. Velika Plenina
As you venture into the Kamnik Alps, you’ll also find Velika Planina, Europe’s largest shepherd village. With traditional wooden huts dotting the landscape, you can get a glimpse of their way of life in the heart of Slovenia’s meadows. To get there, however, you’ll need to take a cable car, which is only accessible during the summer season. Once you’ve reached the top, don’t forget to try the famous mountain cheese for a truly authentic experience.
Whether you prefer to venture into the mountains, relax on the beach, or explore urban neighborhoods, you’ll definitely have plenty of options in Slovenia! We hope our recommendations will help you plan your next trip to this incredible country more easily!
Have a wonderful time!
*You like this article and would you like to receive more travel tips? Subscribe to our newsletter now to stay up to date with trends and our favorite recommendations!