A Central European country, Slovenia is a little treasure trove. A gentle blend of Slavic, Hungarian and Germanic cultures, and charming towns await visitors to reveal their history and heritage. Slovenia is the queen of sustainable and responsible tourism. It invites visitors wishing to recharge their batteries to slow down and commune with its striking nature, with mountains, forests, breathtaking glacial lakes and the shores of the Adriatic. Still untouched by mass tourism, Slovenia invites anyone to take a deep breath of fresh air. Here are 15 of the most beautiful places to see in this enchanting destination.
1. Lake Bled, a postcard landscape
Lake Bled is one of Slovenia's most beautiful landscapes. A lake of glacial origin on the edge of the Julian Alps. It's just 55 km from the capital Ljubljana. In fine weather, it's the perfect place to walk or cycle along its shores, and don't forget to take a dip! Numerous viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramas, such as Bled Castle. The view is made up of the water, the island on which the Baroque church of St. Mary of the Assumption stands, the mountains, the roofs of the houses and numerous touches of greenery.
And, of course, there's Bled, one of the 15 most beautiful villages in Europe!
2. Ljubljana, the green capital
A visit to the capital is a charming part of a trip to Slovenia, a destination to discover in February? A city on a human scale, with a historic center full of cobblestone streets housing boutiques, cafés and restaurants. A blend of medieval and baroque, the city's architecture immediately appeals to lovers of fine stonework. Terraces line the banks of the Ljubljanica, a peaceful river that can also be explored by canoe. A visit to Ljubljana means taking the time to stroll through Tivoli Park, visit the castle, stop off at the central market and marvel at the Dragon Bridge.
3. Velika Planina, a shepherds' village apart in Slovenia
Velika Planina is one of Europe'slargest shepherds' villages. Nestled at an altitude of 1,500 m amid conifers and alpine meadows, you'll immediately fall in love with its authentic character and the surrounding landscape. To get there, you can take the cable car from Kamniška Bistrica or follow the trails on foot.once there, you'll discover sublime chalets whose roof shapes leave no one indifferent. In summer, you can stay on site and enjoy dairy specialities in the company of shepherds. There are many hiking trails starting from Velika Planina. Take advantage of your stay in the area to visit Kamnik, a holiday to reconnect with what's essential in Slovenia.
It's easy to see why Slovenia is one of the world's top 8 travel destinations.
4. Predjama Castle, a marvel of the Middle Ages
Predjama Castle is an astonishing 13th-century structure built into the side of a cliff in a gigantic cavity. It overlooks a vertiginous karst chasm. The tour takes in the interior and its many rooms. An opportunity to learn more about its history. A vast network of galleries lies just behind the building, and a cave, the second longest in Slovenia, stretches four storeys beneath it. It is possible to visit part of it with a guide. From its incredible location to the immersion in the legend of Erasmus of Predjama, this monument is definitely a Slovenian must-see.
5. Postojna Cave, Slovenia's jewel of the karst world
The Postojna cave offers a memorable journey underground, partly by small train! Here you'll discover 2-million-year-old underground cavities revealing numerous stalactites and stalagmites whose shapes are sure to fire the imagination. Major karst features include "Gratte-ciel", the largest limestone formation at 16 metres high, and "brillant", the crystal-white symbol of Postojna Cave. The cave is also home to an incredible biodiversity, including the anguillate protoea, which is obviously reminiscent of baby dragons.
6. The wild Vintgar Gorge
One of the sunniest places to visit in Slovenia in September , the Vintgar Gorge is located close to Lake Bled. Once there, visitors take wooden footbridges along a tumultuous emerald river.it meanders past mountains covered in magnificent vegetation, a romantic spot that makes you want to take photos every 5 minutes! The walk is also an opportunity to see the Šum waterfall, 13 meters high and the longest river waterfall in Slovenia.
7. Škocjan Caves, a natural attraction in Slovenia
The Škocjan C aves have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, and it's easy to see why when you visit them. At a depth of 200 m, they are one of the world's most astonishing geological phenomena. The tour includes impressive cavities, a canyon, limestone concretions, stalactites and even a river with a glass bridge. Quite simply, it's a sight to behold at every turn. Once again, you'll also encounter a remarkable array of cave-dwelling fauna.
8. Piran, sublime coastal village
Slovenia's coastline is not to be missed. It's full of wonders, such as the village of Piran, surrounded by medieval ramparts and sinking into the Adriatic Sea. It's one of Europe's top 10 medieval cities to discover. With its Mediterranean flair, it's a pure delight to wander through its narrow streets and colorful facades. With its squares and buildings, Venice resonates within the walls of Piran. Take the time to visit the monastery, see the cathedral and admire the buildings lining Tartini Square. Piran offers the chance to relax for a few moments on its beach, before slipping on your shoes to climb the steps and admire the orange roofs from the fortified walls.
9. Triglav National Park, Slovenia's only national park
Triglav National Park is a favorite playground for mountaineering and hiking enthusiasts. Slovenia's largest protected area is a paradise, with high peaks of the Julian Alps, lush alpine valleys and their biodiversity, lakes and streams. Each trail reveals breathtaking panoramas. Within the park, you can vary the pleasures by canoeing on the turquoise waters of the Soča River. The Tolmin gorge and Savica waterfall are other local wonders.
No wonder Slovenia is one of today's top 10 ecotourism destinations.
10. Ptuj, an ancient town in Slovenia
It's fair to say that Ptuj is listed as one of Slovenia's oldest towns, one of the 10 alternatives to overly touristy destinations in Europe. Dominated by a castle, its town center is as charming as it gets.you'll never tire of admiring the beauty of its facades and churches, andtaking the side paths that take in its orange roofs, such as the pedestrian bridge. Visits to the castle, which also offers a beautiful panorama, and to the Dominican and Friars Minor monasteries are a must on a trip to Ptuj. And then there's the Drava River in the area, offering lovely walks with a view.
11. The highest Vršič Pass
The Vršič Pass is Slovenia's highest mountain pass. When visiting this part of Slovenia, it's a good idea to take a break by the turquoise waters of Lake Jasna and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains, then get in the car to take in the many hairpin bends that allow you to gain height.from the top of the pass, the views are magnificent, with the Triglav National Park and the Trenta Valley on either side. A hike then takes you up to Mount Sleme, provided you're well equipped, as the snow can last well into the year.
By the way, have you considered Slovenia as a destination for cheap family skiing?
12. The Vipava Valley, time for vineyards
Between the Adriatic Sea and the Julian Alps lies a territory that boasts ideal conditions for wine-growing. The Vipava Valley invites winelovers to stroll among the vineyards and orchards. The rolling, verdant landscapes also reveal charming villages, where you can sit around a table and enjoy local specialities over a glass of wine. Slovenia, a green paradise, but also a gastronomic paradise. Another not-to-be-missed activity is a visit to a wine cellar to taste vintages from indigenous grape varieties - a fine expedition for epicureans.
13. Koper, a picturesque town in Slovenia
Koper is one of Slovenia's most picturesque coastal towns. Head to Tito Square to admire the many historic monuments, then wander through the narrow streets of the old town to soak up its Italian atmosphere of colorful streets, boutiques and cafés.you can't pass through Koper without visiting an ice cream parlour, a delicacy that holds a special place in the hearts of the locals.for idleness, the Mestno kopališče and Mestna plaža beaches are the most pleasant.
14. Lake Bohinj, a peaceful spot
Still Slovenia's largest lake, Bohinj is an exotic destination accessible without a passport, and a must-see if you want to see just how beautiful Slovenian nature really is. We love the wildness and calm that prevail here. Located within the Triglav National Park, it offers visitors the chance to enjoy a wide range of activities. Choose from canoeing and views of the vegetation-covered hills, swimming in the blue waters in summer, or hiking and biking. For those wishing to walk around Lake Bohinj, the loop is 12 km long!
15. Jamnik, a small isolated church in Slovenia
Many walkers want to reach the Jamnik church to photograph it. It's located on a small road between Lake Bled and Ljubljana. Although its architecture is far from imposing, it's full of charm and stands out for its location, which promises to be a sight to behold.it sits atop a green hill, and once you've reached the foot of the monument, you'll enjoy a magnificent view of the mountains. You can round off your visit with a short hike in the area - one of Slovenia's most unusual and incredible places.
How can I visit Slovenia in a week?
Slovenia is a small country that's great to visit on a road trip. Over the course of a week, the first part of the trip takes place in the Julian Alps. The first day is devoted to discovering Lake Bled, with a walk around the lake and a hike to Ojstrica to enjoy the panorama. One of the 14 most romantic destinations to visit on Valentine's Day! On the second day, enjoy the Vingtar Gorge and a stroll along the wooden footbridges that pass directly over the turquoise waters.
We stay in the Julian Alps on the third day, with a picnic on the shores of the splendid Lake Bohinj. The program includes cycling, canoeing and swimming in the summer months! The fourth day is spent in the capital Ljubljana, admiring its architecture and strolling through its historic streets. We also take the opportunity to stroll along the banks of the Ljubljanica and visit the castle.
Day 5 is devoted to a visit to Predjama Castle and its unusual cliff-side setting. While in the area, we visit the Škocjan caves, a gigantic underground canyonlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The last two days are spent on the Adriatic coast, in Piran. We make the most of the time available to us to wander through the narrow streets and see the most beautiful buildings. After tasting a few specialties in a restaurant, we head for Strunjan beach to bask in the sun. The program also includes a visit to Izola, another pretty town on the Slovenian coast.
On this subject, discover our other tips and itineraries for a van road trip in Slovenia!
What to do in Slovenia in summer?
Slovenia is a great destination in summer. Hikers can plan a trek in the Triglav National Park, a mountainous region where you can take a break on the shores of Lake Bohinj. For its part, the Soča Valley is the perfect destination for taking part in whitewater activities such as rafting or kayaking.
When the sun heats up, you can seek coolness in the Škocjan and Postojnan Caves, where the underground galleries are breathtakingly beautiful. And then there's the Adriatic coast to skirt. We love the charming Mediterranean towns of Piran and Koper. We spend our time looking for the most beautiful coves and beaches where we can swim and soak up the sun.
How can I visit Slovenia without a car?
Car-free travellers will find it easy to get around major cities like Ljubljana on foot or by bus. Slovenia also has a good road infrastructure and a highly efficient national bus network. Even if there are a lot of stops, and therefore some journeys are a little long, you can get to the four corners of the country by bus, in very comfortable vehicles. A good option for those with a little time on their hands.
