travel slovenia without car

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7 day itinerary for Slovenia without a car - Slovenia Forum

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7 day itinerary for Slovenia without a car

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We are planning a 7-day trip to slovenia (We do NOT drive, so relying on public transport). We are in our 40s.

How does this itinerary look - any changes you would suggest?

- From there go to Lake Bled and spend 2 nights

- Then go Ljubljana and spend 3 nights (2 days) as we fly out in the morning

==================

Would it better be stay additional night in Lake Bled and just spend a day and half in Ljubljana?

Would appreciate any advice on day trip in Bojinj, Bled and Ljubljana. We plan to vintar gorge one day from Bled.

- I read about the Julian Apls hop-on hop-off bus during the summer - is that something we need to buy in advance? Any other nature walks etc we can do using public transport.

3 replies to this topic

Mostnica gorge in Bohinj, Vogel lift for mountain view

Hop on bus, you just hop in and buy a ticket. Drive with them to Pokljuka plateu (Rudno Polje) and from there walk to Uskovnica hut.

Maybe around lake Bled also check Pokljuka gorge, take a bus to Gorje village and then walk to the gorge.

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One week in Western Slovenia: Cool things to see and do beyond Lake Bled

This article may contain links to products and services we use and recommend. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. For more information, see our Disclosure Policy .

As a true Kiwi, there are few countries in the world Paul considers on par with or surpassing New Zealand when it comes to natural beauty. Iceland, Norway and Ecuador are strong contenders. And now we’re adding another one: Slovenia . We’d even argue that New Zealand can learn a thing or two from Slovenia when it comes to environmental sustainability.

Most people only make time to visit Slovenia ’s capital Ljubljana and nearby Lake Bled . But there are heaps more to see. Our article will talk about the things to see and do in Western Slovenia , beyond the tourist hot spots that Bled and its famous lake have become. But first, let’s have a look at what’s so great about Slovenia .

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There is heaps more to see in (Western) Slovenia than touristy Lake Bled

Three reasons why you should visit Slovenia

• Bordered by Austria to the north, Hungary to the east, Croatia to the south/south-east and Italy plus a slither of the Adriatic to the west, Slovenia is small (only marginally larger than New Jersey) but jam-packed with natural beauty and history .
• The streets are clean, waste is being recycled; the people are friendly, and Slovenian cuisine is mouth-wateringly delicious .
• Slovenia was the first former Yugoslavian country that joined the European Union and adopted the Euro, making travelling from Italy , Austria or any other country using the Euro super easy.

So, if you’re reading this because you’re on the fence about whether to visit Slovenia or not: go ahead and book your trip. You won’t regret it.

Other Fun and Interesting Facts About Slovenia

• It is the smallest non-island state having a single and unique official language.
• Borders four countries: Austria , Croatia , Hungary and Italy of which Croatia with 670 kilometres is the longest.
• The population of just over 2.1 million people with 50% living in urban surroundings.
• Ranked number 8 in the world on the 2019 Global Peace Index. New Zealand is number 2.
• According to World Atlas, 54.5% of the land area is protected – making it number 2 on the world list.

Quaint little towns and stunning landscapes await those who venture off the beaten path

Where to go in Western Slovenia?

Our itinerary starts and ends in Ljubljana and takes you through some of the most jaw-droppingly gorgeous landscapes we have ever come across on our travels. It allows you to experience (in a sustainable way) the best of both worlds:

• historic Ljubljana , and picturesque, but touristy Lake Bled , as well as
• the towering mountains, dense forests and turquoise rivers of the Julian Alps .

When is the best time to visit (Western) Slovenia?

Our favourite travel seasons are late Spring (May/June) and early Autumn (September/October). It’s the perfect time to explore cities and national parks, with fewer tourists and more pleasant temperatures than in summer (or winter). That said, Slovenia could be visited all year round. It all depends on what you’re after.

How stunning does Šum Waterfall in the Vintgar Gorge look in winter? | Photo on Pixabay

How to get around Western Slovenia?

We usually prefer more sustainable transport options like trains and buses. So, let’s talk about those first.

By public transport

You can do our itinerary by bus. Just be aware though that it’s not the easiest or most practical option (and it is limited to the summer months – more on that below). We recommend using Busbud for our suggested route.

Buses depart from Ljubljana 's main bus terminal outside the train station ( Ljubljana AP)

Have you seen our other articles about Slovenia?

Discovering the local cuisine is part of the fun of travelling. It also makes for a more immersive and authentic experience if you eat in a local restaurant, chat with the wait staff/chef and learn more about the food on your table. So, while in Slovenia , make sure you taste a few traditional dishes. In our food guide for (Western) Slovenia , we talk about dishes to look out for on the menu (and where to have them).

For our itinerary around Western Slovenia , we recommend hiring a car . We visited end of May/early June when the buses over Vršič Pass were not yet operational. Our 5-day car hire from/to Ljubljana cost us less than EUR100. We hired our car from the local company AvantCar through DiscoverCars and found the service impeccable. They are also conveniently located, only 5 minutes from the central bus/train station in Ljubljana .

If you travel by your own or hired car, note that route 206 over Vršič Pass is closed for about 5 months of the year due to (often heavy) snowfall. Check the traffic information portal for updates if in doubt. If route 206 is closed you can still cross the Julian Alps , just not over Vršič Pass but via the SS54/ Italy (which is usually open all year).

We hired a car to explore Western Slovenia (though not an electric one)

How to save money on experiences

Free activities or experiences.

Many activities (and some of our most treasured experiences) are free or cost very little. On our journeys, we have

• Visited many museums free of charge (including the Colosseum and Forum in Rome which are free on the first Sunday of the month )
• Joined Al Green’s Baptist Church Service in Memphis (rather than pay the exorbitant entry fees at nearby Graceland)
• Attended free guided walking tours around the world (you pay a tip at the end based on your budget and how much you liked the tour)
• Did countless self-guided walks and used public transport to get to know a city
• Hiked in the Andes in Ecuador and climbed volcanoes in the Caribbean
• Swam and snorkelled at countless beaches, using tree shade rather than paying for parasols; and
• Attended free performances and danced with locals in  Cuba .

Just search for free activities in your destination and chances are someone has made a nice list for you already.

Paid Experiences

Paying for experiences or activities can add up quickly, especially if you're travelling as a family. Make use of family passes (if available). Look out for special deals and discount coupons. If you travel in a group, it may also pay to book a private tour and share the cost. Shop around - here are some of the service providers we have used and can recommend:

Recommended Accommodation

We found the accommodation to be more costly in Slovenia than in other European countries we have visited, especially in Bled . Partially, this is due to the tourist tax charged, which varies from city to city/town to town, and which our hosts collected in cash when they sighted our passports.

We sourced the majority of our accommodation through Booking.com rather than Airbnb . With only one or two nights in one place, Airbnb tended to be more expensive, thanks to its service fee and the cleaning fee that some properties charge. We stayed at the Back Private Rooms in Bled . The other accommodations we stayed at are no longer available to rent. Below are my recommended accommodations for the route.

How to save money on accommodation

For accommodation, as with any other travel expenses, it’s worth shopping around. When we book accommodation somewhere, we tend to look across a number of booking platforms to find the best value for money option. Wherever you book, do make sure you read the fine print to make sure you compare apples with apples. For example, your stay may incur extra charges (like local tourist taxes or cleaning fees). Some booking platforms include them, while with others, you have to pay them to your host upon arrival.

Nightly rates are generally cheaper outside of peak season. If you can only travel in peak season, look for accommodation options that are a little further away from the main tourist attractions, yet have good connections by public transport.

We use and recommend the following booking platforms.

How to save money on transportation

Being flexible is what really pays when it comes to transportation and air travel in particular. Travel outside of peak season if you can. If you can't, fares might still be cheaper during certain times of the week and even hours of the day, so check websites like Skyscanner and Google Flights that allow you to see a whole month and all the options on any given date.

If there are several airports in the vicinity of your home (or in the vicinity of your destination) compare the prices between the different options. For example, flying to Mykonos and taking the ferry to Santorini might end up being way cheaper than flying from your home airport straight to Santorini .

We use and recommend the following online travel agents and service providers for our transportation needs:

To find good flight deals, we use one-stop travel sites or travel aggregators. Each shows the cheapest airfares on any given day, so you can choose to fly a day/week/month earlier or later, pending your flexibility.

If you find a good deal, book it there and then as prices change constantly. Ideally do your research with your browser in incognito mode, as cookies will show booking sites how keen you are to do a certain trip, which may affect the price quoted – that goes for all online travel bookings (not just flights). The best fares generally go first, so planning ahead is important when it comes to (air) transportation. The same is true if you want to use air points/miles, as there is only a very limited number of seats available for any given flight. We tend to not actually go through the flight aggregators, but book with the airline/s directly . The price is usually the same but we have a direct contract with the airline (rather than with the middleman) in case something goes wrong.

If you plan to travel across multiple continents, you may want to compare passes that offer several destinations as a package (such as around-the-world fares offered by One World or Star Alliance members) vs booking each leg of your trip individually. If you are travelling during peak season those multi-destination packages may be a better deal than booking each leg individually. You can do overland sections on around-the-world tickets too, which means you could supplement your around-the-world ticket with cheap flights, bus and train rides in between destinations.

Vehicle rental (including relocations)

Unless your trip takes you across oceans, another way to save on transport is to look for vehicle/motorhome relocations . There are websites in many countries offering massively discounted one-way rates (often including fuel and/or insurance) to those driving a vehicle/motorhome from A to B within a certain period. These deals are fairly last minute, and A and B are usually bigger transport hubs, but if that’s an option just search for vehicle/motorhome relocation at your destination.

Speaking of vehicles: If you are planning to hire a vehicle at your destination, it also pays to shop around. We use and recommend Discover Cars , an aggregator website that allows you to search across major car rental companies at once. And you don’t have to pay for the hire until you pick up the car.

Hitchhiking

A final option to save on transport costs is… to hitch a ride. While Paul and I did it safely in Dominica on a public holiday (when there was no other option), and we have taken plenty of people along in our campervan in New Zealand , there are many countries we wouldn’t feel safe hitchhiking. Judge for yourself where and when you can and can’t do it.

If you have visited Western Slovenia recently, what was your experience like? What other tips can you share?

I wrote this Western Slovenia travel guide based on our own experience. If you have been to Slovenia , and in particular, Western Slovenia as well and you have something to add to this list of things to do, please feel free to contact me. If you want to visit, what additional questions do you have about Western Slovenia ? If you liked my tips and found them helpful, I would appreciate if you could share them with your friends and family via the Share buttons below. Even better, link to the page from your personal blog or social media platforms.

Author: Paul Ryken

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Slovenia Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is crazy to me because it’s incredible! Known for its mountains, ski resorts, fabulous wine, extensive cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe — but with a fraction of the crowds and for a fraction of the costs.

Ljubljana, the country’s vibrant capital, is considered one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities while Lake Bled, Slovenia’s Insta-famous hotspot, is just as stunning in person as it is in photographs.

Inhabited since prehistory, the Romans established numerous outposts around present-day Slovenia. The region was later annexed by various powers, including the Holy Roman Empire and the Hapsburgs. Slovenia saw heavy casualties during World War I and was seized by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy during World War II. After the war, the region was part of Yugoslavia until Slovenia (and Croatia) gained independence in 1991.

Today, this often-overlooked country is a favorite of hikers and history buffs, owing to its rugged landscape and contentious past. There’s a slew of outdoor activities here, making it the perfect destination for active travelers looking for less-crowded landscapes.

This travel guide to Slovenia can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this incredibly undervisited country.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Slovenia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in slovenia.

1. Wander Ljubljana

Ljubljana (pronouced lyoo-blyah-nuh) is a city built on myth and legend. According to Greek mythology, Jason and the Argonauts slayed a dragon here. Wander around the old town, gaze at the Baroque architecture, and climb the clock tower to take in the view.

2. Visit Piran

Piran is one of the most picturesque cities on the Adriatic coast. Its crown jewel is its old town, which is one of the best-preserved historical centers in the Mediterranean. Take in the historic Venetian architecture and relax in one of the many plazas.

3. Enjoy the views at Lake Bled

One of the most popular destinations in Slovenia, Lake Bled attracts thousands of visitors every year. Its main draw is the island in the middle of the lake, which is home to a 17th-century church. Visit the nearby Bled Castle overlooking the lake too (admission is 13 EUR).

4. Do some water sports

Slovenia has 7 sizeable lakes. From stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking to rappelling down waterfalls, there’s something for every fitness level and interest. Expect to pay around 15-20 EUR for a SUP or kayak rental and 65 EUR for a canyoning trip.

5. Go wine tasting

Wine lovers visiting Slovenia should head towards the Vipava Valley. Tucked beside the Italian border, the mild climate and closeness to the sea makes for ideal winemaking conditions. Expect to pay at least 150 EUR for a full day wine tour.

Other Things to See and Do in Slovenia

1. visit predjama castle.

Located one hour south of the capital, Predjama Castle was originally constructed in the 13th century. It is now a Renaissance-style castle with a Gothic façade, built right into the side of a cliff. (Fun fact: a Slovenian robber baron once called the castle home.) There’s also a “secret” tunnel that leads to the nearby Postojna Cave. The cave stretches over 24,000 meters and is open to the public (it’s the second-largest cave system in the country). Admission to the castle is 13.80 EUR, the cave is 25.80 EUR, and a combined ticket is 35.70 EUR.

2. Go hiking in Triglav National Park

The Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park. Opened in 1981 and spanning 880 square kilometers (310 square miles), the park is named after the country’s tallest mountain. Thanks to its mountains, hills, lakes, waterfalls, springs, and rivers, the park is a magnet for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can also kayak, raft, skydive, parasail, and even scuba dive here. It’s a beautiful park and well worth a visit. To extend your time in the park, you can stay overnight in one of the mountain huts (from 80 EUR) or the lodge (from 26 EUR). It’s free to visit the park, though some attractions require small fees to visit (generally 2-5 EUR).

3. Tour Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle was built in the 16th-century and boasts some of the best views of the city. Perched on Castle Hill above the city, you can take a self-guided tour and wander the grounds yourself or take a guided tour to learn more about the castle and its history. Inside the castle are several permanent exhibitions on its history, the Museum of Puppetry, an escape room, and a café and restaurant. Admission is 13 EUR and includes a guided tour and a return funicular ticket (since the castle is up a hill).

4. Hang out in Velika Planina

Located northeast of the medieval town of Kamnik, Velika Planina translates to ‘Big Pasture Plateau’ — and that is pretty much what it is. This huge, empty plateau is dotted by a handful of small traditional wooden houses surrounded by the towering snow-capped Alps. From June through September, the houses are used by local shepherds whose livestock graze on the plateau, creating a seasonal village open to tourists. Be sure to sample some of the amazing cheeses and local dishes (like barley stew or hota , a bean and sauerkraut hotpot). To get here you either need to drive to the top or take a 10-minute gondola lift ride from Kamniska Bistrica, a nearby village, which costs 17 EUR for a roundtrip ticket.

5. Tour the Skocjan Caves

Located one hour from Ljubljana, this enormous cavern system spans over 1,000 acres. It’s considered one of the most important cave systems in the world as it is one of the largest, home to a unique ecosystem. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times and there are underground streams and rivers, massive stone formations, and a 47-meter-high bridge you can cross. The caves have been in use for millennia, appearing in written sources as far back as the 2nd-century BCE. They are awesome! Guided tours start from 18 EUR. You can also arrange day trips from Ljubljana.

6. Go skiing

For the best skiing, head to Vogel in the Lake Bohinj area. It offers both downhill slopes and cross-country trails. The regular ski season lasts from December all the way until May. Expect to pay around 10-30 EUR for a lift pass. You can also get multi-day passes that bring down the price per day. Osovje, Luce, and Dole Pri Litiji are some of the most affordable places to ski if you’re on a budget.

7. Visit the Rogatec Open-Air Museum

The Rogatec Open-Air Museum is a small but fascinating living museum that highlights what life was like in rural Slovenia in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Located near the border with Croatia , you’ll learn about everything from basket weaving to blacksmithing to how livestock was kept and managed. Admission is 3 EUR. It’s a bit cheesy but if you have time (or are looking for a family-friendly activity), stop by!

8. Hike to Lovrenc Lakes

For an easy and beautiful hike that won’t take much time, head to Lovrenc Lakes. Located near Pohorje in the northeast, this one-hour trail begins at the Rogla Ski Center. Follow the wooden footpath that leads to the middle of the bog where there’s a viewing tower to climb for stunning views over across the marsh and forest. There are longer full-day trails and mountain bike paths too. Admission is free.

9. Do some underground cycling

Underground biking is one of the more unusual experiences that you may not find anywhere else. Near Mezica in the north, cyclists can explore the Slovenian underground by taking a tour underneath Mount Peca via its disused lead and zinc mine shafts. There are 5 kilometers (3 miles) of underground trails that you can explore with tours costing 40-50 EUR. You can also kayak sections of the underground mine too (tickets are the same price).

10. Drink beer from a fountain

The only beer fountain in the world is in the Slovenian town of Žalec. Located in the hop-growing capital of Slovenia, the Green Gold Fountain opened in 2016. Choose between six different beers to taste (including a green beer specially brewed just for the fountain). Simply buy a special mug for 8 EUR and sample each of the six beers on tap in the fountain. The fountain operates from April to October. Continue your beer adventure by visiting the nearby Eco-Museum of Hop-Growing and Brewing Industry in Slovenia.

11. Take a food tour

Slovenia travel costs.

Accommodation – Hostel dorms with 4-6-beds cost 16-22 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and self-catering facilities are common. For a private room, expect to pay 40-50 EUR per night.

Budget hotels start at 40 EUR per night. Many budget hotels include free breakfast (but not all do) so if you’re on a budget be sure to book a hotel that includes free breakfast.

Airbnb is another budget-friendly option in Slovenia, with private rooms starting at 35 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 70 EUR per night (though prices average double that if you don’t book in advance).

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds are available around the country. Prices start around 12 EUR for a basic plot without electricity. Wild camping is illegal.

Food – Slovenian cuisine is influenced by Italian, Austrian, and Balkan cooking. Spicy sausage, goulash, and schnitzel make regular appearances and are easy to find in most restaurants. Burek , a flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese, is a local favorite for when you’re on the go. Other popular dishes are žlikrofi (potato-filled ravioli) and žganci (a porridge served with sauerkraut). On the coast, there’s plenty of mussels, fish, and squid.

An inexpensive dish at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 8-11 EUR, and a pizza costs about the same. International food, such as Thai and Indian cuisine, can only be found in the capital. Expect to pay between 7-13 EUR for a main dish.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 6 EUR for a combo meal, though you can get a doner kebab for around 3 EUR. A beer costs 2.50-3 EUR, a glass of wine is 3-5 EUR, and a cappuccino or latte costs 2 EUR. Burek , the flaky pastry mentioned above, can be found in cafes around the country for 2-3 EUR.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 15-18 EUR, including a drink. Prices are closer to 25 EUR for a steak dinner with a drink.

Some of my favorite places to eat and drink were Restaurant Manna, Vino & Ribe, and My Dumplings of Slovenia.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 30-40 EUR for basic staples like meat, potatoes, cheese, pasta, and seasonal produce.

Backpacking Slovenia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to pay around 50 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, doing free activities like walking tours and hikes, and using local transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of about 120 EUR, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out at budget-friendly for most meals, drink a bit more, do some castle tours, go cycling or kayaking, and take some taxis to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 225 EUR per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, do as many activities as you want, rent a car, and book some private guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Slovenia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Slovenia is one of the cheaper countries in Europe. If you’re trying to save money, it’s easy to do so, especially since most of the outdoor activities are free. Here are some ways to save money in Slovenia:

• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are a fun and budget-friendly way to learn about a new destination. Ljubljana Free Tour has a free tour that covers all the major sites in the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Get the Ljubljana Card – This city card grants entrance to 20+ museums, a free guided tour, a trip on the funicular, a boat cruise, free public transportation, and a half-day bike rental. The card comes in 24, 48, and 72-hour versions costing 31-45 EUR respectively.
• Ride Flixbus – Flixbus is an affordable way to get around the country (and region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for overnight and long-haul bus journeys.
• Cook your own meals – If you’re on a tight budget, book accommodation that has a kitchen. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it keeps your budget intact
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing (or a similar sharing economy site) is a great way to not only save money but you’ll meet knowledgeable locals who can help you better understand the city and its people.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major cities in Slovenia are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few extra euros.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Bring a reuseable water bottle – The tap water in Slovenia is safe to drink so bring a reusable bottle to avoid buying single-use plastic. LifeStraw makes bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s especially helpful if you’re out hiking).

Where to Stay in Slovenia

Slovenia has some great hostels in all the popular backpacker spots around the country. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Slovenia:

• Hostel Vrba (Ljubljana)
• Aladin hostel (Ljubljana)
• Proteus (Postojna)
• Hostel Lukna (Mojstrana)
• Hosteller (Bled)
• Adriatic Piran (Piran)
• Uni Youth Hostel (Maribor)

How to Get Around Slovenia

Public transportation – Public transportation prices vary by city but expect to pay around 1.20 EUR for a standard adult ticket.

Bus – Flixbus is one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel around Slovenia (and into neighboring countries as well). The 90-minute journey from Ljubljana to Bled is 5-9 EUR while the 75-minute bus ride from Ljubljana to Koper is 8-13 EUR. The 2.5-hour ride from Ljubljana to Zagreb, Croatia costs 12-18 EUR.

Train – Trains connecting Slovenia with other European cities run daily. Thanks to Slovenia being part of the Eurail network, it can be a great budget way to travel both internationally and domestically. This post has everything you need to know about the Eurail Pass .

Slovenia Railways is the sole company operating domestic trains. You can find the full timetable and pricing on their website. It is always better to buy your ticket in advance as prices can double if you buy them last minute.

The 2.5-hour train ride from Ljubljana to Koper costs 11 EUR while the hour-long trip from Ljubljana to Bled is 5 EUR. The trip to Zagreb, Croatia from Ljubljana takes around 2.5 hours and costs 24 EUR while the 3.5-hour journey to Graz, Austria is 13-18 EUR.

Fly – There are no domestic flights in Slovenia as it’s a small country.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 25-30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Be sure to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as you need one for the rental.

When to Go to Slovenia

While it is a small country, Slovenia has a very diverse climate in its three distinct regions. In the mountains of the north, there’s an alpine climate, the central lowlands have a more continental climate, and the west has a more Mediterranean climate.

Summer is the busiest and most popular time to visit. From June-August, the weather is much more reliable though prices rise slightly and there are far more tourists around (especially at Lake Bled). Expect daily highs around 23°C (73°F).

To beat the crowds, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season — either April-May or September-October. The weather is warm enough to hike and explore but you won’t have to compete with the growing number of visitors.

Unless you plan on skiing, it is probably best to skip the winter months. Slovenia gets cold and temperatures can drop below freezing.

How to Stay Safe in Slovenia

Slovenia is not just one of the safest places to visit in Europe — it’s one of the safest countries in the entire world. Ranking 6th on the Global Peace Index, Slovenia is a country where you can travel freely without any noteworthy concerns for your safety (the United States, for reference, is ranked 117th).

Of course, you still want to use some common sense. Don’t flash any valuables and keep an eye out for pickpockets in busy areas like public buses or bus/train stations. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in the vehicle overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

While scams here are rare, to avoid getting ripped off, read my post on common travel scams to avoid.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Slovenia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Slovenia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

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Slovenia Itinerary 7 days: Best of cities, lakes, & the Alps

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Located in central Europe, Slovenia is a small but diverse country. It was a part of erstwhile Yugoslavia, but you rarely see any of it in its architecture – the influence of the Austro-Hungarian rule is more prominent. In this Slovenia Itinerary 7 days, you will discover the best of the capital city, lakes, caves, and castles. We have included options for 3 to 5 days in Slovenia as well (both with or without a car!)

Perfect Slovenia Itinerary 7 days (+ ideas for 3 to 5 days in Slovenia trip)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

7 day Slovenia Itinerary: Snapshot

• Day 1 Arrive in Ljubljana. Stay in Grand Union Hotel
• Day 2 Explore Ljubljana 
• Day 3 Lake Bled and surroundings
• Day 4 Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle Half-Day
• Day 5 Triglav National Park Tour
• Day 6 Coastal towns of Piran
• Day 7 Maribor, Ptuj & Heart of the Vineyards

Slovenia Travel Guide: Preparing for your 7 days in Slovenia (+ 7 day road trip planning) 

• Capital City: Ljubljana
• Currency: Euro
• EU Member: Yes
• Tourist Visa: Schengen Visa
• National language: Slovene or Slovenian. Italian, and Hungarian are also spoken. English is widely spoken in touristy areas.

Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia . The city is known as the ‘green city’ (2016) and has one of the largest car-free zones in the European Union. If you are flying to Slovenia from the United States or Canada, you will arrive at the Ljubljana Joze Pucnik airport. 

When we were looking for flights, we found better options for Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, so we ended up arriving in Slovenia by road. 

If you plan to do a Slovenia road trip, you can pick up a rental car from the airport. We recommend staying at the city center in Ljubljana for your trip. 

If you stay at the recommended Grand Union Hotel – where we stayed, you get free parking. But you can find parking (paid on weekdays, and free on Sundays and Saturdays from 3 pm). 

We didn’t rent a car but used public transportation and tours to explore Slovenia. Also in the city center, you won’t need a car, you can pretty much walk and cover all the attractions. 

Slovenia belongs to the Schengen zone of countries, and it is an EU member . If you require a tourist visit to explore other European countries, then you will need Schengen Visa.

If you are planning to add a trip to Italy , Austria , or Croatia after your 5-day or 7-day Slovenia itinerary, then you can use the same visa to enter these countries.

For visiting Balkan countries, a multiple-entry Schengen Visa is required. Please check with the consulate for requirements. 

Quick History of Slovenia:

Modern-day Slovenia had been under the rule of many powerful kingdoms, from the Roman Empire, and Byzantine Empire, to the Republic of Venice, the Austrian Empire, and later the Austro-Hungarians. 

In the 20th century (First World War), the Slovenes co-founded the State of Slovenes, Croats, and Serbs, which became the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, or the Kingdom of Yugoslavia as it is commonly known. 

The Slovenes are the South Slavic people, they have a unique culture, and language. When you visit Ljubljana or the towns in the Julian Alps, the Yugoslav influence is barely there. 

The coastal areas have the Venetian allure, having been ruled by the Republic of Venice.

For most of its history, Slovenia was largely controlled by the Habsburgs of Austria. Post World War II, it was under Communist rule. Slovenia was the first country to break away from Yugoslavia, and after its dissolution in 1991, Slovenia followed a multiparty democratic political system. 

Slovenia is economically prosperous, its buildings, roads, and infrastructure (and views of course) are well maintained, and oozes a kind of royalty that you will find in cities like Vienna (when compared to Ljubljana – which is also a green city!)

Although it is a Balkan state, it is very different from other countries like Serbia, North Macedonia, or Romania.

Ljubljana Slovenia Itinerary 3 days or 5 days

If you are pressed for time and wish to explore Slovenia in 3 days, then spend one day each in Ljubljana, Lake Bled, and choose from Triglav National Park, or Postojna cave & Predjama castle. This will allow you to comfortably see the city, the iconic lake, and a bit more, without rushing!

If you only have 5 days in Slovenia, feel free to pick a sightseeing itinerary from any of the individual ‘days’ to customize this trip.

Keep reading to get the full Slovenia Itinerary for 3 to 7 days.

Day 1 of Slovenia Itinerary 7 days: Arrive in Ljubljana 

On day one of your Slovenia itinerary plan to arrive in the capital city of Ljubljana by noon. 

Ljubljana is served by the Ljubljana Joze Pucnik airport (aka Ljubljana Airport). You can book flights from the UK, or get connections from North America.

We found better flight tickets from Canada to Zagreb via Amsterdam and then continued the onward journey by road. Zagreb to Ljubljana is less than 2 hours. We joined a group tour to reach Slovenia and stayed back.

You can opt for a car rental, go road tripping through Slovenia and explore in 5 to 7 days. Public transportation – trains are available. It takes 3+ hours to reach Ljubljana from Zagreb Central Station. 

Reserve Car Rental: Prepare Ahead

If you need a car rental, we recommend comparing and checking prices on Discovercars.com to book yours.

Once you arrive in Ljubljana, settle into your hotel, preferably in the city centre area. We stayed at the Grand Union Hotel in Ljubljana .

In the afternoon, from the hotel make your way to Prešeren Square , located in the heart of the city. Wander the beautiful lanes and check out the architecture on each side of the Ljubljanica river.

After a quick stroll, head to Ljubljana’s vibrant farmers market to discover hidden gems and local food items. Take a walk first, and then sample and taste different food items. 

The Ljubljana Central Market stretches from the iconic Triple Bridge and the Dragon Bridge, on the right side of the curve of the River. Except for Sundays, the market is open everyday. You will find a flower market (Pogačar Square and Vodnik Square), a fish market, and bakery, dairy, and meat stalls.

Near the Triple Bridge, you can also shop for arts and crafts (souvenirs), and herbs and spices. 

We wanted to introduce you to the foodie side of the city on day one, as Ljubljana is slowly emerging as a gastronomic heaven and a green or eco-destination. 

If you prefer to explore with an experienced local guide, opt for this 3 hour food and walking tour. This tour starts at 12:30 pm.

In the evening, you can make your way to Tivoli Park. Tivoli City Park is the largest park in Ljubljana. It is located on the western outskirts of the city centre. It was designed in 1813 by the French engineer Jean Blanchard.

The park covers an area of approximately five square kilometers, and is home to many chestnut trees, fountains, and walking and jogging areas. 

You will enjoy browsing through the outdoor photographs and exhibitions set up at the Jakopič Promenade (Jakopičevo sprehajališče). This was designed by architect Jože Plečnik, and it is located in the central part of Tivoli Park. 

At the park, you can enjoy the sun go down the slopes of Rožnik hill, and spend a romantic evening walking through the sprawling green space – hand in hand. 

After spending an hour or so here, head to the city centre for dinner and drinks. You will love the ambiance of Ljubljana in the late evening. The Prešernov trg Square and the banks along the Ljubljanica River are stunning, and it comes alive with lights, and music. 

We enjoyed a lovely dinner in the Petkovšek Embankment area (by the river) . 

Read : One day in Ljubljana itinerary

Day 2 of Slovenia Itinerary 7 days: Explore Ljubljana 

On day 2 of your Slovenia itinerary, wake up to breakfast, and don’t forget to try the Slovenian Cream Cake! 

If you stay at the Grand Union Hotel, breakfast will be included. They serve a huge variety of continental food and beverage selection. 

We do recommend stepping outside for breakfast on one of the days to try out a local cafe. Our favorite breakfast place in Ljubljana is the Le Petit Cafe . You can try homemade granola with dried fruits and it is served with yogurt or soy milk. 

Today, you will enjoy one of the most beautiful and underrated cities in Europe. Although the origins of the city of Ljubljana are unclear, many sources date back to the 12th century. In 1335 it came under Hapsburg rule, and since the end of the Middle Ages, it assumed the role of the Slovenian cultural capital.

You can explore many of the important landmarks in Ljubljana in a day. All of the tourist attractions are located in the city centre or near it. 

Ljubljana’s Old Town is adorned by architectural gems – bridges, markets, houses, churches, and buildings from the Austro-Hungarian rule. As you walk the various lanes of the centre, you won’t even notice that Slovenia was a part of erstwhile Yugoslavia. 

The city’s most famous landmarks include the following,

• Prešernov trg Square: From the hotel, as you make your way to the River Ljubljanica and the bridges, you will arrive at the main Prešernov trg Square. From this square, you can soak in the city views, and click some Insta-worthy photos.
• Baroque-style Franciscan Church of the Annunciation: On the north side of the square is the grand Baroque-style Franciscan Church of the Annunciation. Stop by to admire the pinkish-red facade of the Church. And then there is the Hauptmann’s House which represents an architectural masterpiece considered to be one of the few buildings in Prešeren Square to have survived the earthquake of 1895. 
• River Ljubljanica, and the famous Triple Bridge: On the south of the Square is the River Ljubljanica, and the famous Triple Bridge (Tromostovje). This bridge was built in 1929 by Joze Plecnik. It connects the historical and the medieval town of Ljubljana, on one bank, and the modern city, on the other.
• In the eastern part of Prešeren stands the Central Pharmacy building; to the west, the square is lined by Wolf Street (Wolfova Ulica) bound for Congress Square (Kongresni Trg).
• Butcher’s Bridge and the sculptures: This is one of the newer bridges in Ljubljana, and it connects the Ljubljana Central Market and the Petkovšek Embankment (Petkovškovo nabrežje). This bridge is very unique with sculptures and figures from Ancient Greek and Christian/Jewish mythology.

• Admire the Dragon Bridge – Zmajski Most : Another bridge that is located not far from the Central Market is the famous Dragon Bridge (Zmajski Most). The statues of the green dragons on the bridge are iconic to the city of Ljubljana, and you must take a photo with the dragon here to remember your trip! I
• Mestni trg square: Mestni trg square is the major (and old) town square of Ljugbliana. The buildings and structures in and around the Mestni trg square date back to the 12th century. Stop by here to check out Baroque palaces, Town Hall, and the popular Fountain of the Three Carniolan Rivers (designed by Venetian-born sculptor Francesco Robba).
• The Robba Fountain, also located at the square, is modeled on the famous Roman fountains and is considered to be one of Ljubljana’s best-known Baroque monuments. It was created in the mid-18th century. 
• Visit Ljubljana Cathedral aka St. Nicholas’s Church: The gorgeous Ljubljana Cathedral was built on the site of a Romanic church, which dates back to 1262. 

Explore Ljubljana Castle 

Set aside a few hours to explore the Ljubljana Castle. Many of the attractions listed above are for free, but this one has an entry fee and is completely worth it.  You will love the views from Castle Hill over the city centre of Ljubljana.

The castle stands on a hill, and it was originally a medieval fortress from the 11th and 12th centuries. It was used as a defense structure. The way you see the Castle today was formed in the 15th century. This castle is depicted on the city’s coat of arms, along with a dragon on top.

You can spend anywhere from 1.50 to 2 hours at the Castle complex. You can climb the hill to reach the top, or take a funicular ride to the top. We booked a tower and castle combo ticket and explored the complex, and visited various exhibition halls. 

Here is a combined ticket with sightseeing in Ljubljana.

During our visit, an exhibition on the Yugoslavian history and Slovenia’s origins were on display. There is a puppet museum (permanent exhibition) onsite as well.

The views from the tower are breathtaking, and are a photographer’s and a history lover’s delight! 

Entrance tickets to the castle, it is 10 EUR ($13 USD) and includes entry to the Viewing Tower, Virtual Castle (a short movie about the Castle’s history), Slovenian History exhibition, Museum of Puppetry, and Once Upon a Time exhibition.

After visiting the Castle complex, stop by the Ljubljana Tourist Center for some photos.

In the late afternoon take a walk down to the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church. This church is also known as the Orthodox Church – an Eastern Orthodox church building located in Trubar Park. Near the church are the Museum of Modern Art and west of the National Gallery of Slovenia. 

After all the sightseeing, finish the day with drinks at The Nebotičnik Cafe. The cafe is located on the top of the Nebotičnik (Skyscraper) building. 

The Skyscraper was built in 1933 and was the tallest building in the Balkans at the time of its construction. The Skyscraper brings in the architecture created between the two World Wars and one with beautiful city views from all directions. 

The sky rise building still serves its original purpose and houses shops, restaurants, offices, and residential flats.

Day 3 of 7 days in Slovenia Itinerary: Visit Lake Bled & nearby areas

One of the highlights of our trip to Slovenia was visiting the beautiful Lake Bled area. We went on a day trip, but you can stay here overnight as well. We browsed through a few properties and came across this one with views. 

Optional accommodation : Hotel Triglav, you can check the photos here . This hotel is a beauty, and the views from their restaurant and suites are to die for – just absolutely gorgeous!

Lake Bled is a beautiful glacial lake located in the Julian Alps, in northwestern Slovenia. It is super easy to reach Lake Bled from Ljubljana

Ljubljana to Lake Bled: 45 minute by road, traveling a distance of 55.4 km or 34.4 miles

You can also explore Lake Bled on a day tour. Here are some tour options via GetYourGuide (our favorite tour provider in Europe. They also have a very generous cancelation policy),

• Lake Bled and Bled Castle Tour (round trip, guided tour, and free time)
• Lake Bled and Vintgar Gorge Tour

In Lake Bled, take a walk in and around the lakeside, enjoy a nice stroll on the boardwalk, and take amazing photographs of the lake, castle, and the Julian Alps. 

You can also rent a bike, and go biking at the lake. 

If you are up for a hike, head to the Mala Osojnica Viewpoint. The trail is open all year round and is it a short and easy hike that welcomes you to amazing views. 

To visit the beautiful island, and the church you have to embark on a boat ride aka pletna. A pletna is a traditional boat which is made by locals. With a boat ride, you will reach the island and visit the Church of the Assumption.

The church’s iconic 52 feet bell tower has been standing since 1465. The tower with the Karavanke Mountain Range in the background makes it one of the most picturesque places in the world. 

For the best views of the lake and the island head to the Bled Castle. Inside the castle, there are terraces, museums, and a cafe. The castle terraces offer spectacular views of the lake and its tiny island. 

Lake Bled Castle is the oldest castle in Slovenia. Entry tickets to Bled castle are €13 ($15 USD) per adult. Book them online here

Before you depart from Lake Bled, stop by one of the cozy restaurants by the lake, and enjoy coffee and Slovenian Cream Cake!

Note: If you are traveling by bus, here are some quick tips. Bus schedules vary on weekdays and weekends. The last departure bus trip will help you to plan the return journey to Ljubljana. 

• Weekdays: The first departure is at 6:00 am and the last is 9:00 pm.
• Saturdays: The first departure is 5:30 am and the last is 10:30 pm.
• Sundays : The first departure is at 7:00 am and the last is at 9:00 pm. 
• Timetables for Ljubljana to Lake Bled Bus Check timetables here

Read : Things to do in Lake Bled in winter

Day 4 of Slovenia Itinerary 7 days: Explore Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle

On day 4 of the Slovenia itinerary, plan to visit Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. 

The distance between Ljubljana and Predjama is 57.7 km (36 miles). You can travel by road, bus, train or by tour.

• Buses take 2.50 hours. (Fare $18 to $46 USD, with one transfer)
• Trains take 2.25 to 2.50 hours. (Fare $18 to $40 USD, with transfers)

Transportation from Ljubljana stops at the Postojna Cave and then stops at the Castle. 

Here is a guided tour, which we recommend.

Postojna Cave is one of the most popular karst caves in the world. Its tour of the underground passages makes it one of the unique experiences in Slovenia. 

Once you arrive at the Cave complex, you can explore the 4 km (2.50 miles) cave system by electric train, and then walk through the beautiful chambers that showcase amazing handing (like stalactites of) stones, pillars, limestone curtains, and other extraordinary natural wonders.

It takes 90 minutes to complete the underground cave tour. We recommend spending 2 hours or so in total at the complex. 

From the Postojna Cave, head to Predjama and visit the Renaissance castle. The castle is beautifully built within the mouth of a cave, giving it a very fairytale-like vibe. The castle became known as the seat of the knight Erasmus of Lueg (or Luegg, Luegger), aka Robinhood of Slovenia.

The cave below the castle is part of the 14 km (8.69 miles) Predjama cave system, which is open to guests from May to September only (and closed in winter). 

If you are taking the day tour, you can buy combo tickets for the castle and Postojna Cave. 

Note that in July and August, you can hop on the free shuttle service between the cave and the castle, if you buy the combined ticket. Or just book a day tour.

Alternate Option: Instead of the Postojna Cave, you can visit the Skocjan Caves, which is home to the largest underground canyons in Europe. It is less touristy than the Postojna Cave, and in 1986 they were entered into the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites (natural and cultural). The distance from the Škocjan Caves to Predjama Castle is 30 minutes by road. 

Day 5 of Slovenia Itinerary 5 days: Explore Triglav National Park

For day 5 of your Slovenia itinerary (final day), we recommend opting for a day tour to explore Triglav National Park . In this full-day tour, there are multiple stops as you are driven along the 3.50 scenic route.

Triglav is the highest mountain in Slovenia and the highest peak of the Julian Alps. Its elevation is 2,863.65 metres. Triglav National Park is the only national park in Slovenia. 

The good thing about this tour is that they guide you on 3 nature hikes. They are completely optional, but if you wish to stretch your legs, take photos, and hike under an experienced hiker then you must join this tour. Hikes are around 30-45 minutes. 

This day tour is a good value for money, as they take you through Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, and the Pokljuka plateau. 

The major attractions in this tour are the Vintgar Gorge, Alpine Radovna valley, Pericnik waterfall, Jasna Lake, and the village of Mojstrana. 

The Vintgar Gorge or Bled Gorge is a 1.6-kilometer gorge located inside the Triglav National Park. The gorge is carved by the Radovna River and showcases the beauty of the crystal-clear river amidst the rugged rocks. 

Views of Lake Jasna are just so beautiful. You will stop at this lake as you near Kranjska Gora along the road to the Vršič Pass . It is a very touristy area though and is at the confluence of Mala and Velika Pišnica.

Kranjska Gora is a cute alpine resort, and if you prefer to extend your trip in northwestern Slovenia then this is a good place to stay – near the mountains and glacial lakes of Triglav National Park. 

You can also set aside time to explore the little town, a 17th-century Liznjek House, and Nordic Center Planica (for winter sports). If you are extending your trip, add Soča Valley to your Slovenia road trip itinerary. Soča Valley is known to be an amazing outdoor destination to go hiking, glamping, and camping!

Check out this day tour here

Day 6 of Slovenia Itinerary 7 days: Visit Piran, and other coastal towns 

If you wish to swap any of the day itineraries above, you can do so with these 2 options. You can still keep Ljubljana as a base and then go on day tours. 

On day 6 of the Slovenia itinerary, explore the coastal side of the country. Venture to the small villages of Piran, Koper, Izola, Strunjan, and Portoroz. 

The Slovenian coastal region is made up of five towns, which were fishing villages once upon a time. They are clustered alongside cliffs on the Slovene Riviera.

This day tour from Ljubljana to the coastal area is perfect for culture and nature lovers. Soak in the views of the mesmerizing landscape, learn about their history, go hiking or biking trails, and eat (& drink) your heart out! The seafood and wine here are delicious!

(For hiking and biking trails, mid-March to mid-October is perfect). 

Check out the day tour to Piran and nearby areas here

Day 7 of 7 days in Slovenia Itinerary: Maribor and tour of the vineyards 

After visiting the mountains and the Slovene Riviera, explore hot springs, and vineyards next. 

If you are road tripping, start for Ptuj and Maribor.

The driving distance from Ljubljana to Ptuj is 1.50 hours. Trains take about 2 hours. Ptuj is a small Slovenian town, and it is also one of the oldest in the country. It is home to thermal springs, fields, and vineyards on the Drava Plain. 

Ptuj to Maribor is about 30 minutes by car. Trains can take up to 50 minutes. 

Maribor is the second biggest city in Slovenia and it was awarded the European Capital of Culture in 2012. You will love the relaxed and cultural vibe of the city of Maribor. Do check off Maribor’s gothic cathedral, their Main Square, and the Franciscan Church on your day trip. 

If you prefer a day tour (with stops at vineyards + planning to drink), then here is one you may want to consider.

Connections from Slovenia to other countries – Italy, & Croatia

After 5 or 7 days in Slovenia, you can continue to nearby European cities by road or public transportation.

The closest cities worth exploring are – Trieste in Italy and Zagreb in Croatia . They can be explored even on a day trip, and only take a few hours to reach (by road, tour, or train). 

• Ljubljana to Trieste is 1.50 hours by road. Buses take about 2+ hours
• Ljubljana to Zagreb is less than 2 hours by road. Buses take about 2.50 hours

On our Balkans trip itinerary , we continued from Ljubljana to Belgrade Serbia on an overnight bus. 

Slovenia Trip Planner: Additional Travel Tips 

If you are visiting Slovenia or Europe for the first time, here are some useful tips to help plan your trip

• Travel Documents: Slovenia is located in Europe, and is an EU member. For travelers with US or Canadian passports, you can travel visa-free for up to 90 days. If you require a visa to travel to the Schengen zone of countries, then you will require the same tourist visa to enter Slovenia.
• Travel Insurance: Don’t forget to insure your trip against medical emergencies, cancellations, and delays. Check out free insurance quotes here from Safety Wing
• Budget for Slovenia : Slovenia is not overtly expensive or affordable. Many of the hotels, restaurants, and shops were priced near how much we normally pay here in North America. You can easily survive with around $100 USD per person per day (for hotel, food, transport + tour)
• When is the best time to visit Slovenia: Slovenia is best explored during off-seasons, in the months of May and June, and between August and September. December is a lovely time to go to Slovenia to check out Christmas Markets.  
• What to eat in Slovenia : Highly recommend the delicious Bled Cream Cake, Belokranjska pogaca or traditional flatbread, meat stew, Carniolan Sausage, and super filly Jota soup. Don’t forget to try wine from the Riviera region.

We recommend spending 4 to 5 days in Slovenia to explore the capital city of Ljubljana, take day trips to Lake Bled, Postojna cave & Predjama castle, and also experience the outdoors at the Triglav National Park.

Summer months are great to visit Slovenia for outdoorsy activities, especially in the Soca Valley. But keep in mind city centres, Lake Bled boating and camping areas will be super crowded. Visiting in late August or September will allow you to enjoy stunning vistas and a relaxed city break without the crowds. If you are into winter sports, plan to visit Slovenia in January. Winter activities include skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in Triglav National Park, and nearby areas.

One full day is enough to explore the main city attractions of Ljubljana. Two days (with one overnight stay) will allow you to enjoy a relaxed break where you can take in the fresh air at Tivoli Park, enjoy local cuisines, or spend time wandering the Central Market.

Slovenia is not super expensive. It is not like Switzerland or Iceland you need to specially budget, but it is not as affordable as Belgrade or Zagreb either. The services and money value were at par with what we spend here in Canada. We found great accommodation at the centre, tours were affordable at less than $100 USD per day.

For a short trip to the Balkans, a visit to Slovenia and the north/central part of Croatia is an excellent choice. You can fly into Zagreb, and then travel to Slovenia and spend a couple of days there. After exploring Ljubljana make your way to Split, explore, and also cover Plitvice Lakes National Park.  If you wish to extend this itinerary, you can go further south to Dubrovnik, or head to Mostar from Split (Mostar and Sarajevo are located in Bosnia Herzegovina).

We hope you found our post useful in planning our next adventure to Slovenia! 

Read our Balkan Travel Guides below

• Balkans Package tours
• Balkan Road trips
• Croatia 7 day itinerary
• One week in Europe itineraries

Pin: Slovenia Itinerary Ideas: Ideas for Road trip to Slovenia & Sightseeing by tours

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Everything you need to know before you come to Slovenia

Mar 5, 2022 • 7 min read

Slovenia blends Italy's romance with the country calm of the Balkans © AzmanL / Getty Images

Slovenia is a borderland, marking the transition between Mediterranean Europe, Alpine Europe and the Balkans. It's a complex synapse between cultures and topographies, perched where the Adriatic and Eurasian tectonic plates collide, drawing traditions from both sides of the divide.

If this is your first visit to Slovenia, you’ll find landscapes born of the Alps and the Adriatic , and a culture that’s an amalgam of all of its neighbors – Italy to the west, Austria in the north, Croatia and the Western Balkans to the south and Hungary to the east.

It's no surprise that travelers are attracted to this famously outdoorsy Central European country. Travelers are often drawn to the edges – to points where coastlines meet the sea, where mountain ranges greet the sky, and where heritages intertwine. Slovenia’s complexities and contours all contribute to its allure.

Navigating this country – small in size but a heavyweight when it comes to adventure and discovery – isn’t difficult, but understanding how to do it better will only increase the pleasure of traveling here.

Planning your trip to Slovenia

Here are some things to prepare for before you reach Slovenia.

Start with “Good Day”

Slovenes speak Slovenian, and as this is a Slavic language, it can be a little challenging for English speakers. Monoglots need not worry, however. Since Slovenian is rarely spoken outside Slovenia, locals often speak English well, and German and Italian are also widely spoken. It still doesn’t hurt to have a few local words on hand. Dober dan is “good day,”  pro sim is “please,” and hvala is” thank you.”

Take advantage of tourism cards

Travelers are often reluctant to invest in city tourism cards out of skepticism about the savings possible from free or reduced prices. In Slovenia, that's a mistake, as these cards are good value when you consider the discount provided at most of the spots you’ve come to see. They also serve as a list of the area’s top sights to tick off your list. In most cases, the card will pay back your investment after only a few sights have been visited.

Many spots around Slovenia have discount-filled tourist card schemes, including Ljubljana , Maribor , and Bled , and prices are very reasonable. The 48-hour Ljubljana Card costs €39, for example, but that price allows free entry to many of the main attractions and even includes a free bus ride to and from the airport.

Plan to visit all areas of the country

It's easy to get swept up in the beauty, proximity, romance, and popularity of Slovenia’s western half. Attractions stuffed into this area include the capital, the Julian Alps , the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, the Soča Valley , Lake Bled , Lake Bohinj , the country’s Goriška Brda wine communities, the hilly Karst Region , and the Adriatic Coast .

But for those who want to really experience Slovenia, it would be a travesty to miss the nation’s eastern side. Culturally leaning towards the Balkans, this half of the country is just as interesting and beautiful, and because of the buzz surrounding western Slovenia, it's also less crowded.

Start exploring in Maribor and Ptuj , connected by the Drava River in the northeast corner of the country. You'll find a slew of spa and wellness resorts peppering the country’s central-eastern region that are well worth unwinding in. And for history buffs, no trip to Slovenia would be complete without a trip to the Sava River in the southeast, where dramatic castles punctuate the landscape.

Etiquette in Slovenia

Break the ice by speaking to locals.

Slovenians won’t immediately say hello to strangers like Americans often do. That doesn’t mean they aren’t friendly, just a little reserved. However, one of the chief joys of being in Slovenia, especially in mountain villages, is speaking to the locals for tips on things to see and do.

Making contact is not just about saying hi, it’s also a great way to learn experientially about the country. Travelers with a penchant for trekking in particular will benefit from directions and tips from locals, and sharing a cup of coffee or a glass of schnapps, is part of the camaraderie of hiking in Slovenia. Slovenes are, by nature, dedicated to their homeland, so every encounter is an opportunity to learn the lie of the land.

Walk or cycle when you can

Slovenes are an active and practical bunch. Where possible, citizens often prefer to get around on foot or by bicycle, rather than always jumping behind the wheel. Using your own power to move around isn't just a good way to keep fit, it's often faster and more convenient than waiting for public transport.

Travelers unused to a place that makes full use of its bike lanes will probably get an etiquette lesson soon after arriving. Walking accidentally into the designated cycle lanes will earn you a bell ring and potentially a stiff word or two.

Conveniently, there are bike rentals in many spots around the country if you want to join the throng. In the Slovenian capital, the public BicikeLJ bicycle-sharing system makes it easy and cheap to explore without ever putting a key into a car’s ignition. Tourist information offices, hotels and outdoor activity operators rent out decent quality mountain bikes for highland exploring. 

Mix it up in Ljubljana

Ljubljana is rightly one of Slovenia's top destinations, with incredible sights all over the city but don’t leave without taking in Ljubljana’s alternative side. From the well-touristed city center, leave the scenic square of Prešernov Trg and head east along Trubarjeva cesta, passing busy street food establishments, cafes, and bars.

Continue on to the Metelkova area of town, which has become Ljubljana's de facto art district. What were once military barracks have today been reinvented as studios and hedonistic nightclubs. You'll also find two of the most interesting museums in the country – the Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova and the National Museum of Slovenia – Metelkova .

Take advantage of Slovenia's free itineraries

Slovenia's tourism authorities have created a number of free routes for independent travelers, with the goal of equipping DIY explorers with the tools needed to visit less touristy spots around the country in a responsible and sustainable way, often by hiking or cycling .

The advantages for travelers are obvious. These routes come with abundant free and easy-to-use information that will get you off the beaten track, providing a chance to see rural Slovenia up close with minimum impact. The country benefits too – visitors moving at human speed are naturally dispersed, alleviating traffic and over-tourism problems in more popular locales.

Perhaps the top itinerary is the Juliana Trail , an easy-to-follow hiking path that circumnavigates Triglav National Park . The Bike Slovenia Green: Alps to Adriatic cycling route rolls from Kranjska Gora to the Adriatic, while the Walk of Peace trail treks along the Soča River – one of Slovenia's most beautiful spots for hiking and kayaking.  

Cyclists with strong calves should try the newly launched Slovenia Road Cycling Loop , which takes road warriors around the country to the best climbs and descents. And for multi-discipline types, the Slovenia Green Solčava Panoramic Route combines both cycling and hiking in the mountains north of Ljubljana.

Health and safety in Slovenia

If you plan to trek off the beaten track, there are a few things to know.

Sort out your gear before you hit the trails

If you are planning to hike in Slovenia – especially in mountainous areas above 2000m (6500ft) – it's important to carry the right equipment. Regardless of your normal outdoor practices back home, if you want to challenge yourself with some mountain summit attempts, pack and use a mountaineering helmet. Rockfalls are a risk, whether you are climbing or trekking.

If you have more ambitious plans to tackle multiple via ferrata routes while you’re here, invest in your health and safety by renting or buying a harness for clipping in. Gear is usually available for rent in areas with via ferrata cables, but you can get onto the routes more quickly with your own harness, lanyards, gloves and helmet.

Trekking safely

While some Slovenian trekking routes are well-trodden, the country has more than 9000km (5590 miles) of trails, and it's easy to get off the beaten path, particularly at higher elevations. Always tell somebody where you are going, trek in a group (or a pair) and check the weather conditions and the latest information about the route before you set off. In an emergency on the trails, contact the Mountain Rescue Association of Slovenia (GRZS) by dialing 112.

You may also like: 6 incredible places to swim in Slovenia: From beaches and sand bars to Lake Bled Get to know Chef Ana Roš in 22 questions The best things to do in Slovenia from the mountains to the sea

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The Best 5 Days in Slovenia Itinerary: Slovenia Road Trip 5 Days Guide

The old saying goes that ‘good things come in small packages’, and that’s certainly true for Slovenia. This 5 days in Slovenia itinerary covers everything you’ll need to about visiting the country for the first time.

As one of central Europe’s most charming destinations. What it lacks in size, it sure makes up for in terms of fascinating culture and towns oozing with history, phenomenally beautiful landscapes, as well as a booming adventure sports scene.

Naturally, you’d probably want to stay longer here, however, because of its compact size, you’ll be able to see the best of Slovenia in 5 days.

This itinerary can be done by public transport, however, to make the most out of your trip, I suggest self-driving. This Slovenia road trip 5 days guide includes what to see in Slovenia, how to get around (even without a car), and insider tips on how to see the best of Slovenia in a short space of time.

This post may contain affiliate links. To find out what this means and more information visit my disclosure page .

Best Things To See In Slovenia

Getting around slovenia, where to stay in ljubljana, gettting from ljubljana to postojna caves, where to stay in piran, where to stay in lake bled.

• Best Julian Alps & Soča Valley Tours

Where can I find a map of landmarks in Slovenia?

5 days in slovenia – overview.

This 5 days in Slovenia itinerary article is divided into sections. The first part covers the top things to do in Slovenia during your trip as well as a summary for each day. The second section goes into details about getting around, information about how to visit the top things to see in Slovenia which were mentioned in the first section, as well as lots of tips for your visit.

Finally, there’s an FAQ section that answers any other questions you might have about planning your Slovenia vacation.

• The Julian Alps
• Ljubljana Old Town
• Ljubljana Castle
• Metelkova Mesto
• Postojna Caves
• Predjama Castle
• Piran Old Harbour
• Vintgar Gorge
• The Boka & Kozjak waterfalls
• Bohinj Town
• Ride the Auto Train

Slovenia in 5 Days

This 5 day Slovenia itinerary is sure to be a memorable adventure! Although this itinerary can be done by train or bus, for more freedom, I suggest hiring a car to get the most out of this Slovenia road trip 5 days guide.

I’ve designed this itinerary to start in Ljubljana, the nation’s capital, and then finish in Bohinj. Bohinj is a short drive from the Italian and Austrian border, so you could tag on a few days in either of these destinations too.

This Slovenia travel guide is pretty tight-packed so if you have more time to spend travelling in Slovenia, then spread this out over 7-10 days instead.

Slovenia Road Trip 5 Days – Day-by-Day Breakdown

Here’s how your Slovenia road trip 5 days will pan out. Although this is a packed schedule, it will allow you to see the best of Slovenia in a relatively short time.

One thing you’ll quickly learn is why the phrase #sLOVEnia crops up everywhere around the country. After my trip, I could firmly say that I love Slovenia, and I’m sure you will too! Here’s what my Slovenia suggested itinerary for 5 days looks like:

Day 1 – Ljubljana

• Day 2 – Postojna Caves & Predjama Castle
• Day 3 – Piran
• Day 4 – Lake Bled & Vintgar Gorge
• Day 5 – Julian Alps & Bohinj

5 Days Slovenia Itinerary Map

This map shows where all the locations I just mentioned above are located for this 5 day itinerary for Slovenia. You can also download the map for offline viewing.

Best Way to Get to Slovenia

Slovenia has 3 international airports, so depending on where you’re coming from, you should find something that works. The most popular airport is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU).

It’s also easy to get to Slovenia by land, so you might be wondering how to reach Slovenia by road. The country shares borders with Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungry. You could easily extend your trip and arrive in Slovenia via bus, train or car from one of these countries instead.

There are a few ways to travel around Slovenia. The country has decent train and bus services, so if you’re travelling around Slovenia without a car , then you’ll be able to get to most points of interest easily. The only exception is the Emerald Valley, which I’ll talk about later on.

The best way to get around Slovenia is by car. If you’ve arrived in Slovenia by air, then you’ll find loads of car rental places at Ljubljana Airport. Having your own set of wheels will give you the freedom to do this 5 day Slovenia tour at your own pace and visit places that are not accessible by public transportation.

Complete 5 Days in Slovenia Itinerary

This itinerary starts in the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana. Although doable using public transport, this itinerary is easier done as a 5-day road trip. If you’re flying into Ljubljana, then there are plenty of options for car hire .

Because of the compact size of the county, most places listed in this guide are under two hours’ drive from Ljubljana. An alternative way of seeing everything I mention in this article is by basing yourself in Ljubljana and then doing day trips.

Start the first day of your Slovenia itinerary in the nation’s capital; Ljubljana. Explore the historic centre, and eat locally produced food at the farmers market before climbing up to Ljubljana castle for the best panoramic views of the city. After, head to the quirky autonomous district of Metelkova Mesto .

I know I struggled with the pronunciation of the name of the city at first, but think of it like lube-li-ana. The city of Ljubljana is an incredibly green city, with tree-lined streets and grassy river banks and parks. Running through the city is a turquoise river of the Ljubljanica. The pedestrian-friendly city means that it’s easy to explore on foot (or bike).

Compared to the bustle of other European cities, Ljubljana feels more like a town. It’s incredibly tranquil. If you’re wondering what to see in Ljubljana and want to orientate yourself with the historical city centre then take a walking tour of Ljubljana . Most tours will also include a sample of the local schnapps; the blueberry one was delicious! 

At some point during your five days in Slovenia, make sure you try the locally-produced orange wine. Contrary to what the name suggests, it’s not actually made from oranges. It gets its name from the colour of the drink. The winemakers leave the skins on the grapes, giving it an orangey tinge.

Best Things To See In Ljubljana

• Preseren Square
• Ljubljana Cathedral
• Central Market
• Plečnik’s Arcades
• Dragon Bridge
• Trivoli Park
• Mestni Square

Visiting Ljubljana Castle

This is the first of three castles you’re going to visit on this Slovenia trip itinerary. Visiting Ljubljana Castle is one of the top attractions in the city, offering spectacular panoramic views and a range of activities including exhibitions, museums and towers to climb.

There are two ways to get there – walking or by taking the funicular railway – I opted to walk to justify everything I ate for lunch. If you’re opting to walk up, then you’ll find the start of the footpath is at Študentovska ulica .

Ljubljana castle is a medieval fortress that was constructed in the 11th century. It’s visible from pretty much everywhere in the city, so you’ll get some of the best views of the city. One of the top things to do in Ljubljana is to come up and watch the sunset. Most of the grounds are free to enter but you’ll have to pay to go inside the different exhibitions.

Visiting Metelkova Mesto

After visiting the castle, I highly recommend heading over and discovering what became one of my favourite areas of Ljubljana. Metelkova Mesto is an autonomous district in Ljubljana which was formerly the military barracks of both the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Yugoslav National Army before it became a hub for youth and artists.

Today, it’s recognised as an important part of Ljubljana culture, featuring street art, sculptures and vibrant nightlife. It’s well worth exploring during the day or after hours for a unique experience in Slovenia.

Alternative Itinerary (If You’re Not Into Street Art)

If you’re not interested in street art and visiting the district of Metelkova Mesto , then opt to take a boat ride, kayak or SUP along the Ljubljanica River.

This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. The river runs right the way through the centre, so you’ll have great views of all the main attractions.

Getting To Ljubljana From Ljubljana Airport

Getting to Ljubljana from the airport is easy, with a variety of options. Those with cars can drive in around 25 minutes, while those without have the option of taking the public bus number 28 route.

The bus takes about 45 minutes, it departs just outside the arrival and drops off at the bus station in Ljubljana.

Boutique Accommodation – Tromostovje Apartments

• Central location
• Entire apartment
• Parking available

Check Availability on Booking

Check Availability on Agoda

Budget Accommodation – Janez Rooms

• Free breakfast

Related Article: How To Explore Metelkova Mesto

Day 2 – Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle

Your Slovenia in 5 days itinerary starts early, as you leave Ljubljana. Today you’re going to visit Europe’s largest cave system, travel deep inside the caves on the old train and try to spot the ‘baby dragons’. Then marvel at the impressive Predjama Castle,

If you’re planning to do a road trip in Slovenia, then today is when you want to pick up your rental car as you start to head down south to visit two of the most impressive landmarks in Slovenia.

Visiting Postojna Cave

The Postojna Cave system is the largest ‘show cave’ in Europe. It’s a whopping 24 kilometres long and was carved out by the Pivka River. Although it’s a little gimmicky, there’s a train that takes you inside for the first 5km of the cave system at the start of your 90-minute tour of the caves. 

In fairness, as gimmicky as it is, it’s still a lot of fun to ride the world’s first railway into an underground cave. The original railway here opened here in 1872 although thankfully, it’s been modernised. If you’re interested in weird train facts, the railway’s new claim to fame is that it’s now the world’s only double-track cave railway. The train ride takes you about 5km into the cave system and you walk back out.

During the summer months, expect long delays to enter the caves. This is one of Slovenia’s top attractions, so expect it to be busy.

You are allocated a time slot to enter the caves, so if you arrive and haven’t booked your tickets in advance , then you might have a long wait until the next available time slot.

One of the cute residents of the caves is what they have dubbed ‘baby dragons’; the olms! These are adorable nearly translucent-skinned creatures that have fluffy red external gills and no eyes. They are actually blind salamanders that reside in this cave system. 

They got their name back in the 17th Century, locals wrote about dragons living in the cave and that the olms were the offspring. Flooding of the caves flushed out several of these little creatures which is how this tale started.

Fast forward a few hundred years and scientists have discovered that olms are endemic to the region; they live nowhere else but here. Astonishingly, and I love this fact, an olm can go without food for up to 12 years! And they can have a lifespan of up to 100 years. These are pretty epic little creatures!

The Postojna Caves have a constant chilly temperature of between 8-10°C. Even in the peak of summer, it’s cold so pack something warm when you visit. 

Visiting Predjama Castle

If you love fairy-tale castles , then no doubt this will tick all your boxes. The Renaissance Predjama Castle has perched off the 123-metre-high cliff edge for over 800 years. The castle was deemed unconquerable.

The bit you can see from the path, poking out of the cliff face, is just a small part of the castle complex and the world’s largest castle built inside a cave . Behind the facade is a network of hidden and secret tunnels.

If you’re visiting Slovenia in the summer months, you’ll be able to take a tour of the caves at Postojna Castle. The cave is located under the castle and is home to a colony of bats. If you’re here towards dusk, you’ll see them flitting about. Even if you don’t get to see the bats, you’ll certainly be able to smell them.

The castle is open all year round, but the best time to go to Slovenia if you want to see the bats is between June to August. The caves are closed to the public outside of this time due to the bats hibernating. 

There are two main options for getting from Ljubljana to the Postojna Caves: by train or bus.

By train, the journey takes about 90 minutes. You can get off at the town of Postojna and walk 25 minutes to the caves.

The bus from Ljubljana takes around 2 hours and goes directly to the car park of Postojna Cave. A more regular bus is the hourly bus service between Ljubljana and the town of Postojna. like with the train, you’ll then have to walk 25 minutes to the caves.

You can get between Postojna Caves up to Predjma Castle using the shuttle. Take note that the shuttle only runs during the peak season (June – August). If you visit outside of these times, and you’re not on an organised tour, you’ll be able to get a taxi for the short journey.

From the Caves to the Castle, it’s 9 kilometres distance. If you have your own car, during the peak summer months, it might be quicker to take the shuttle bus, than to tackle the busy roads and find parking.

Alternatively, you can book a day tour from Ljubljana to Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle and not have to worry about public transport, and getting to either of the attractions.

Day 3 – Piran

Slovenia isn’t blessed with miles of coastline, unlike neighbouring Croatia , however, what it lacks in quantity, it certainly makes up for in charm.

Spend the day wandering about the picturesque coastal town of Piran on the Adriatic coast and getting lost in the pretty streets surrounding the old harbour. When you tire of that, spend the rest of your time relaxing on one of the best beaches in Slovenia .

Because it’s so close to Italy, you’ll see plenty of opulent Venetian architectural influences here. Tartini Square in the town centre is lined with buildings of this style. This is because for 500 years Piran was part of the Republic of Venice!

The city is compact, so one day in Piran is enough time to be able to see all the highlights and allow for some relaxation time on the beach. Take a guided tour of Piran to see everything efficiently and learn about the history of the town.

Best things to see in Piran

• The Old Town  
• Church of St. George
• Tartini Square & the Bell Tower
• Walk the city walls
• Relax on the beaches

Getting From Postojna Caves To Piran

If you choose to drive, it will take about an hour and fifteen minutes to get from Postojna Caves to Piran. It is a scenic route and there are several gas stations along the way for fuel or snacks. Just make sure you follow the signs for Piran. It’s worth knowing that you’ll have to park outside the town as the Piran centre is pedestrian only.

If you choose to take public transportation, the journey will take longer but it’s a scenic journey. There are buses that leave from Postojna town and go directly to Piran. The total trip time is about two hours, including several stops along the way.

Boutique Accommodation – Casa Al Porto Antico

• 5-star rating
• Located in the historical port
• Balcony or terrace

Budget Accommodation – Guest House Pachamama

• Garden view

Check Availability of Agoda

Related Article: Love walled cities like Piran? Check out Dubrovnik in Croatia

Day 4 – Lake Bled

Day 4 on your Slovenia trip heads back inland and towards Lake Bled. You’ll be in this pretty town for two nights, to explore the region. Visiting Lake Bled is one of the best experiences in Slovenia.

The town of Bled is located in the Julian Alps and is home to probably one of the best lakes in Slovenia and the most photographed lake in Europe, Lake Bled. Nominated as one of the seven new wonders of the world, Lake Bled is certainly postcard perfect, the blue waters of the lake, with a pretty church in the middle, surrounded by the rolling mountains.

Explore Lake Bled by taking a leisurely walk or cycling around the 6-kilometre (3-mile) circuit. Enjoy the stunning views, go for a swim and take some photos along the way! Bike rentals are available if you want to get around quickly.

Climb up to Bled Castle to admire the views over the iconic Lake Bled. Take a boat ride on the lake to visit the island before visiting the beautiful Vintgar Gorge and if you’re feeling energetic, take one of the trails up to the surrounding hills for a panoramic view.

It’s no secret this is Slovenia’s biggest tourist destination and no trip to Slovenia would be complete without visiting it. Bled is a small town, and it can feel very overcrowded in the summer which is why it’s nice to get out of the town and explore the region.

One of my favourite lookout points in Lake Bled was a trail going up through the woodland at the boating club end of the lake. Look for a small signpost pointing into the woods, or ask directions to Ojstrica.

It goes past an old crumbling building at first and then leads up quite steeply through the woods. Eventually, Mala Osojnica comes out to a clearing at the top where you’ll find one of the most phenomenal views of Lake Bled against the backdrop of the Julian Alps.

Best things to see in Bled

• Bled Castle
• Walk (or Cycle) around Lake Bled
• Take a boat ride on Lake Bled
• Ring the bell of the Assumption of Mary Church
• Eat Lake Bled Cake
• Visit Vintgar Gorge
• Hike up to the lookout points

Spend the day ticking these things off your Slovenia to-do list. There’s also an abundance of seasonal things to do in Lake Bled, such as concerts, pop-up markets and exhibitions. It’s best to start early to make the most of your time here, particularly during the peak summer months. Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most visited attractions, so be prepared for crowds!

Visiting Vintgar Gorge

Take a trip to Vintgar Gorge , located in the heart of Triglav National Park. Here you’ll find wooden bridges and viewing platforms overlooking the stunningly clear blue Radovna River. This 1.6km long gorge is home to cascades, rapids, pools and even the 13m tall Šum Waterfall. The Bohinj Railway also passes over the gulley, offering a picturesque view of the area.

If you’re looking for somewhere to cool off during the summer months, Vintgar Gorge is a perfect choice. The trail is shaded by cliff walls and trees. It’s located just 5km from Bled and can be reached on foot or via a shuttle bus in 10 minutes. You can also take a self-guided eBike tour from Bled town . I recommend spending a couple of hours here exploring the area.

Getting from Piran to Lake Bled

There are several different ways to make the trip. If you’re travelling by car, take the A1 freeway from Piran to Ljubljana and then continue onto the E61 road directly to Lake Bled. Depending on traffic, the drive should take about three hours.

Alternatively, you can travel by train from Piran to Ljubljana and then switch trains for the short ride from Ljubljana to Lesce-Bled Station. From there it is only a few kilometres away. This will take about four hours.

You can also take the bus from Piran to Ljubljana and make a transfer to the bus to Lake Bled. This is usually a bit slower but can be more convenient if you do not have access to your own vehicle. The journey should take approximately four hours with connection times.

Because this is technically it’s two bus journeys when you arrive at Ljubljana bus station you’ll have to buy a second bus ticket to get to Bled.

Boutique Accommodation – Adora Luxury Hotel

• Previously known as Vila Istra
• Located on the banks of Lake Bled
• Balcony view

(Adora often sells out, if you can’t book a room here, then try Old Bled House instead.)

Budget Accommodation – Vila Lipa

Day 5 – julian alps & soča valley.

This is the final day of your Slovenia in 5 days itinerary where you’re going to explore the beautiful alpine region. If you don’t have the use of a car, then to make the most of this area I 100% recommend booking a tou r to take you to at least some of these sites.

Start by heading out of Bled towards the Kranjska Gora Alpine Region. Here you’ll find the picturesque Jasna Lake. At Jasna lake, stroll around the clear turquoise (and very cold!) water before posing with the Slovenian Zlatorog mountain goat.

After, head to the Vršič Pass. This road was built by Russian prisoners of war during WW1. It’s the highest mountain pass in the Eastern Julian Alps. The Vršič Pass is one of the most iconic roads in Europe, with no less than 50 hairpin turns snaking its way upward towards the highest part of the Soča valley.

Take the Trenta Pass on the way back down, there’s a spot to pull over and see the source of the Soča River. Stop off for lunch in the pretty mountain town of Bovec. If you’re looking to do any adventure sport such as canyoning , kayaking, white water rafting or zip-lining this is the hub for it.

If you’re a fan of waterfalls, then you’ll love the Boka & Kozjak waterfalls. The Boka waterfall is 18 meters wide and 106 meters high and is the biggest in Slovenia and the Kozjak waterfall, which has carved out a dark chamber in the rock.

Lastly, take a ride on the fabulous Auto Train. This was one of the highlights of my day, mostly because of the novelty value of sitting in the van, on the back of the train, trundling through the Slovenian countryside. The railway was built in 1906 to connect Most na Soči and Bohinjska Bistrica . The railway also goes through Slovenia’s longest tunnel, all 6327 meters of it before finishing at the pretty town of Bohinj.

This region is the hub for adventure travel . Hiking is a big thing in this region, and the Julian Alps are a perfect destination if you love adventure sports. One of the best hikes in Slovenia, the Alpe-Adria Trail , passes through the Soča Valley.

If you’re an adrenalin junkie, I highly recommend doing some of the sports on offer while you’re visiting Slovenia. Book at least the day before – even further in advance at peak season. 

I can highly vouch for the white water rafting in Slovenia or if you’re an avid hiker , then head to Triglav National Park , to explore the region on foot.

Several mini-van tours in Bled town will take you to some of these top destinations in Slovenia. If you do have your own car, then be sure to add these places to your Slovenia road trip itinerary.

Things To See In The Soča Valley

• Bovec Town
• Boka and Kozjak waterfall 
• The Auto Train

Best Julian Alps & Soča Valley Tours

Public transport isn’t an option here – although there is a public bus to Bovec, the adventure sports hub and Bohinj. These are reasonably well connected by a 40 minutes local bus ride. If you don’t have a car, the best way to experience the Julian Alps and Soca Valley is on an organised tour.

Related Article: White Water Rafting in Slovenia

Onward Travel

After finishing your 5 days Slovenia itinerary, you have several options. You may need to travel back to Ljubliana. The journey between Lake Bled and Ljubljana takes about an hour whether you choose to drive or go via public transport.

If you do have more time to enjoy Slovenia, you could stay in the region a little longer or head straight back to Ljubljana from Bohinj. You could also opt to head to nearby Austria or Italy to extend your travel!

Slovenia In 5 Days – Alternative Way Of Doing This Itinerary

An alternative way to spend 5 days in Slovenia, without a car, and STILL see everything I’ve mentioned in this itinerary is to base yourself in Ljubljana and do day trips.

Because Slovenia is a small country, with its capital pretty much in the middle, it means it is possible to see everything I’ve mentioned in this Slovenia itinerary by using day tours instead.

Everything mentioned in this itinerary is within two hours of Ljubljana. Using the capital as a base and just sticking to doing day tours is also a great option if you’re not keen on the idea of packing, unpacking and checking in and out of accommodation every day.

Take a look at these great Ljubljana day trips and day trips around Slovenia.

FAQ & Slovenia Travel Tips

Where is slovenia.

Slovenia is a relatively small country in Europe with an area of just over 20000 sq. km. It is nestled between Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Croatia.

When you visit Slovenia, you’ll find influences from all of these countries from the delicious food and wine, and the cute medieval towns, to the stunning mountain ranges. You can download this map here with all the locations on it.

is Slovenia worth visiting?

Is Slovenia a good place to visit? Yes! There are so many great reasons to visit Slovenia. I do wonder if the Slovenians have been keeping their fabulous and beautiful little country a secret as it so often gets overlooked as an amazing European destination.

How do I get from the Slovenia Airport to Ljubljana?

Slovenia only has one major international airport, located just under 30km away from the capital, Ljubljana. Getting from the airport to Ljubljana is straightforward. If you have a car, then to drive, it will take around 25 minutes.

If you’re visiting Slovenia without a car then there are several options to get from Ljubljana airport to the centre. One of the most efficient is by taking the public bus number 28 route. This journey takes about 45 minutes. It drops off at the bus station in Ljubljana, where you can either walk or get a local taxi to your hotel.

Alternatively, you can book your airport transfer directly to your hotel in advance using a meet-and-greet private transfer service.

When is the best time to visit Slovenia?

If you’re wondering when to visit Slovenia, then it depends on what you want to do. If you’re an avid skier, then Slovenia has some great ski resorts in the Julian Alps. Go from December up to February.

To make the most of this itinerary, the best time of year to visit Slovenia is in the summer months.

The best time to visit Slovenia is anytime between late May to October. The warmest months are July and August.

Lake Bled gets insanely busy during July and August. so if possible, opt for the shoulder season. The weather from May to June and then September to October are still warm, but with the bonus that it’s outside of the European school holidays, so there are fewer crowds and often cheaper accommodation prices.

It can rain throughout the year in Slovenia (this is Europe after all!) so whatever time of the year you visit remember to take a rainproof jacket and jumper for chilly evenings.

How many days do you need in Slovenia?

I left Slovenia desperately wishing I had longer. So, how many days in Slovenia are needed? This 5 day Slovenia guide covers all of the top landmarks, however, it is a full-on itinerary and may feel rushed for some.

If you have the time, then extend everything I have mentioned here into a Slovenia 7-day itinerary instead. Also, if you’re not interested in Piran and seeing the seaside resort, then you could also cut that day off the guide to make this into 4 days in Slovenia trip.

If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Slovenia, then the best thing is to weigh up what you want to do. If you’re only passing through the country and have to see Slovenia in a day, then I’d recommend going straight to the areas around the Julian Alps.

I’m still not sure what to see in Slovenia

If you’re still not sure what to see in Slovenia, then jump back up to this section at the start where I give a list of the top things to see, or you could download this checklist .

Is it easy to drive in Slovenia?

Yes, if you plan to do this guide is perfect to do as a road trip Slovenia has well-signposted and well-maintained roads.

If you don’t have your own car, then you can easily hire a car in Ljubljana.

One thing to note is that some roads in Slovenia are tolled roads. To use them, you will need to have a valid Slovenian Vignette card linked to your vehicle. 

Car Rental In Slovenia Recommendation s

Find the best deals for car rental by using a price comparison site.  AutoEurope compares the price across numerous rental companies to give you the best deals.

Can I visit Slovenia without a car?

This 5 days in Slovenia trip is mostly doable using public transport. Slovenia has a decent and affordable train and bus network. Because this is such a fully packed itinerary, just be aware of allowing enough time for travel between each of the destinations.

Ljubljana, Lake Bled and Piran are well connected. However, seeing all the destinations I mention in the Julian Alps region will prove tricky using public transport alone. For this part of the itinerary, I recommend booking a guided tour .

What language do they speak in Slovenia?

The official language of Slovenia is Slovenian, which is a South Slavic language. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and attractions. Even in the slightly less visited places, the locals knew could speak English.

What currency do they use in Slovenia?

Slovenia uses the Euro, with cash and card being widely accepted.

Is Slovenia safe?

On the whole, Slovenia, like most of Europe, is an incredibly safe destination. However, as with all cities and tourist destinations, be careful of pickpockets in busy areas. This 5 days in Slovenia guide, all the locations are central, so will have the most police presence.

Not sure where to find everything I’ve mentioned in this article? then check out this Slovenia map. Click here to download it .

How Are Your 5 Days In Slovenia Looking?

Hopefully, this Slovenia itinerary 5 days guide has answered everything you need to know whether you choose to do this as a part of a 5 day Slovenia road trip or base yourself in Ljubljana and do day trips.

You’ll have plenty of ideas on what to do in Slovenia, getting around, and where to stay as well as giving you some great insider tips to help you plan your Slovenia vacation. Remember to download this map, checklist and information sheet to help plan your trip.

If you enjoyed this best Slovenia travel guide, you might also like…

• The best white water rafting in Slovenia
• If you’re visiting the region, find out more about Croatia Travel and Italy Travel

Save it for later

If you found this 5 days in Slovenia itinerary useful, then save this post for future reference. Know someone else who will find this helpful, then why not share it with them?

Have a question about anything in this travel guide to Slovenia? then head to the Contact page and drop me a message.

Hey, I'm Becki......and I'm a self-confessed travel addict and experience connoisseur!

In other words, I’m a bucket-list traveller, on a mission to experience the best things our fabulous little planet has to offer with the least environmental impact.

When I'm not climbing mountains, scuba diving, spotting wildlife or exploring ruins, you'll probably find me sipping coffee, or with a glass of wine in hand planning my next adventure.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Slovenia

Travelling Solo in Slovenia

If you're looking at solo travel in Europe , Slovenia solo travel is so easy for females. The country is incredibly safe and being so small, it is so easy to get around. With plenty of adrenalin sports on offer, Slovenia attracts the more adventurous traveller and those who love the outdoors. There’s a free walking Slovenia guided tour in the capital where it's easy to meet others.

Is Slovenia safe for solo female travellers? With a low crime rate, small cities in Slovenia, and women with the same opportunities as men, Slovenia is a great country for solos and its lack of fast food restaurants and chain stores add to its charm.

Below is our Slovenia travel guide on how to travel solo in Slovenia including things to do in Slovenia, what to see in Slovenia, where to stay, how to travel Slovenia and recommended Slovenia tour companies. Find out how to get from the airport and where to visit in Slovenia as a solo. 

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Slovenia .  

All companies included have been recommended by solo female travellers and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article when you're travelling to Slovenia. 

About Slovenia

Accommodation in slovenia.

• Slovenia Adventures and Tours

Getting Around Slovenia

From the airport, how long do you need.

• Travelling Onwards

Conscious Travel in Slovenia

Slovenia map, plan a trip to slovenia.

One of the most underrated countries in Europe, Slovenia has the beauty of Austria and Switzerland without the tourists and is also lighter on the purse strings. Over a third of Slovenia is a protected natural area and the country isn’t short of a few lakes either with 1,300 of them within the country. Solo travel in Slovenia for 80 natural thermal springs and healing waters which makes it a popular destination for the wellness solo.

Health retreats can be found from the coast all the way up to the  Kamnik-Savinja Alps  and many come for the healing properties of the ancient hills of Pohorje, used for medical purposes. Nowhere is far here whether you’re searching for mountains, coastline or rock formations, Slovenia has a natural beauty and there’s a reason it’s called the heart of Europe.

* Click here to discover all activities and things to do in Slovenia

The capital  Ljubljana   may be difficult to pronounce but its ease and charm shines through its Baroque style architecture. Meaning ‘the beloved city’ Ljubljana is big on culture and you’ll often find musicians or locals reciting poetry in the main square (one of the rivers has even had a poem written about it!) Restaurants line the river which separate the old town from the new and taking a walking tour gives a great insight into the history of the city.

When you are in Ljubljana city centre, take a self-guided Ljubljana Castle tour, a Ljubljana must see, and one of the best places to visit in Slovenia, which overlooks the city. Marvel at the Dragon Bridge – one of the iconic bridges – with its mythical legend. Restaurants line the Ljubljanica River (the river of the seven names) and you party until late in the many bars.

For cool things in Slovenia, the bohemian area of Metelkova Street is a graffiti artist’s dream and stands out from the rest of the capital with decorated walls and shoes hanging from above. The area is a world famous centre of art and craft with music, theatre and sculptures and one of the things to see in Ljubljana. You can even stay the night in an old converted jail. * Read: What To Do When Visiting Ljubljana

If you're searching for some Slovenia adventure travel, not far from the capital is beautiful Lake Bled , a mecca for adventure seekers and one of the lakes to visit in Slovenia. Lake Bled is one of the top Slovenia tourist attractions. Here is every activity you could imagine from: high ropes, mountaineering, skydiving, canyoning, rafting and horse riding.

If that’s too much adventure for you, you can hire a rowing boat to Bled Island or just sit and take in the view of the Church of the Assumption which stands tall in the midst of the lake. You can also see Bled Castle, as it perches on a cliffside, with history that dates back as far as 1004. 

Close to Lake Bled is the Vintgar Gorge, one of the top places to see in Slovenia. This 1.6km long gorge has wooden boardwalk trails that take you past waterfalls as you criss-cross the river and along the water's edge. If you do visit here, you can take a shuttle bus from Bled from July to September.  

Visit Slovenia in the winter and you can ski in the  Julian Alps and see the picturesque Jamnik Church on the slopes. Kranjska Gora is a hub for winter sports, and this ski resort has 18 ski slopes to choose from. But you don’t need snow to enjoy this country as water sports also draw the adventurers and you can raft, scuba dive or paraglide in Bovec , the adrenaline capital of the country and one of the cities to visit in Slovenia. To get there you need to take the V ršič Pass, the country's highest road pass with dramatic views that connects Bovec with Kranjska Gora. 

Just nearby is Lake Bohinj and although Lake Bled is the most popular,   Lake Bohinj   is the largest glacial lake with traditional alpine houses blended into the landscape. It's definitely a Slovenia must see. The scenery here is breathtaking and there are even small beaches for catching those summer rays.

Triglav National Park

Another place for water sports is on the S oča River in Triglav National Park, where from mid March to the end of October you can kayak, go rafting and river boarding or just experience the tranquility of stand up paddle boarding (SUP). It is said to be one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe, with its emerald colours. If you prefer to stay on land, you can cycle or hike the Soča Valley instead or take the Kanin Cable Car (one of the things to see in Slovenia), or zip line it instead. 

Outside the national park near the Italian border is  Kobarid  with a historic walking trail and a museum with weapons from the World War. The whole area is perfect for mountaineering and hiking and also for food connoisseurs with a choice of many excellent restaurants. Another village in the foothill of the Alps is  Podmelec , a tiny Slovenian village off the beaten path with a waterfall and locals.

Aside from the capital, another of the Slovenia cities is Maribor . The second largest city which lies on the river Drava in the east. The location of the city on the edge of the Pannonian Plain and the  Pohorje  Mountains means it’s great for the outdoorsy type with mountain biking and hiking in the green moors in the summer and skiing in Pohorje in the snowy winter.

Head southeast for castles, monasteries, vineyards and the oldest Slovenian spas in the  Stajerska  and  Dolenjska regions; one of the places to relax in Slovenia. 

Maribor is located in the Stajerska region, which claims to have the oldest vine in the world within its wine region. Making it one of the top places to visit in Slovenia for wine enthusiasts with wine growing hills spreading all along to Austria. You can stay in a traditional home stay, ride a horse and cart or just enjoy the views over a glass or two. 

Just nearby is  Ptuj , a town for history buffs and the oldest town of Slovenia where you can visit Ptuj Castle which is now a museum. Travel southwest along the Adriatic coast to the Karst region with ancient salt pans and the   Postojna and  Škocjan caves ; the most popular caves in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Velika Planina

If you're wondering what to do in Slovenia for some culture, Velika planina is alive with Alpine herdsmen's culture. As well as being a stunning area for nature and hiking, it is also the place to see the local herdsmen as they bring the cattle to the area in June each year. Here you can taste their traditional morning meal as well as other mountain dishes to re-fuel you to get back on the trails, before taking the aerial cable car back to Kamniska Bistrica Valley.

Other Places To See in Slovenia

Other sights to see are the deepest potholes in the world at  Kaninski podi ,  Predjamski Grad ; a medieval castle which protrudes from the side of the mountain, the coastal town of  Portoroz ,  Koper   for its port (the fishing kind, not the drink) and   Piran   – one of the best preserved cultural monuments and a great spot for taking photos.

Go to Slovenia for clean air, an abundance of water and amazing scenery. There’s a reason why the word ‘love’ is in Slovenia. Slovenia tourism coined the phrase ‘I feel Slovenia,' and this heart of Europe is a treasured gem definitely worth exploring.

If you're looking for where to stay in Slovenia, the country has a choice of accommodation. You'll find hotels from 3 star to the luxurious 5 star and hostels if you are backpacking Slovenia and are on a budget. You'll find guest houses in Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Piran, Rogla, and Golte. 

If you prefer to stay in Slovenia with locals, there’s Airbnb where you can stay in a local's spare room or even rent their whole apartment. 

If you are on a budget and looking for where to stay in Ljubljana, I stayed at Hostel Celica , a converted prison in Ljubljana and unique accommodation Slovenia. Sleeping in a prison is a once in a lifetime experience and I met others Slovenia backpacking too. Treat Yourself at Vander Urbani Resort or Stay at Tito’s Former Summer Residence. * Check rates and availability for all Slovenia accommodation

Ljubljana – H2O Hostel – $

Close to the main station in the capital, this hostel is walking distance to the city centre and close to Dragon’s Bridge. There is also a fruit and vegetable market nearby and a shared kitchen to cook your own meals. The showers are good and the beds are comfortable but you do need to take your own towel (or rent one if not). The hostel organises trips, city tours and airport transfers and also rents bikes. Choose from a a bed in a 4 bed or 6 bed mixed room or upgrade to a double room with either a shared or private bathroom. * Check rates and availability: H20 Hostel

Bled – Ace of Spades Hostel – $

This stylish black and white hostel is located in the heart of Bled near a supermarket making it easy for you to cook your own meals in the property’s kitchen. It’s a great place for meeting others and the staff are really friendly and can arrange any activities that you want to do in the area. I have personally stayed in this hostel and really recommend it. Choose from a double or twin room with a shared bathroom, or a 4-bed dormitory room. * C heck rates and availability: Ace of Spades Hostel

Slovenia Adventures and Tours

G Adventures Slovenia

If you feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your trip or the whole duration, consider taking a tour of Slovenia. G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers. Most tours have an average of 10 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any excursions in Slovenia that you want to do when you’re there.

They have group tours combining Slovenia with Hungary, Austria and Italy from 8 days to 21 days, including the best of Slovenia. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female friendly company, if you're unsure what to visit in Slovenia. * Check rates and availability for G Adventures Slovenia tours

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people using their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence their Slovenia trips can appear more costly than G Adventures.

Trips start from an 8 day Slovenia: hike, bike & raft, to an epic 43 day trip from Madrid to Rome. With both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Read our  Intrepid Travel Reviews

Get Your Guide Day Tours  

Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day trips in worldwide destinations including travelling in Slovenia. Choose from a tour to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, a visit to Postojna cave and Predjama Castle or a private walking tour of Ljubljana. There are several day tours in Slovenia to choose from and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, dates, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for Slovenia day tours

Getting Around Slovenia Without a Car – For Slovenia travel, Slovenia has a good bus and train network but if you decide to travel Slovenia by train, you may have to change trains in the capital for your onward journey so take the bus for any smaller towns. Check here for Slovenian Railways.

You can just walk or bike around the capital. If you choose to take the Ljubljana transport, you’ll need an Urbana Card from one of the ticket machines. Journeys are for 90 minutes and allow you to change buses up to this time. 

Buses are environmentally friendly, and Ljubljana bus station is the main hub for getting around the country. The country is reasonably small so travelling Slovenia from the capital to anywhere in the country shouldn't take more than 2 hours, even on Slovenia public transport. For example, the distance from Ljubljana to Bled is just over one hour by Slovenia bus.

Travelling Slovenia By Car – If you prefer to do your own Slovenia road trip, renting a car is an alternative to the bus (but more expensive). Driving around Slovenia is easy as the roads are easy to navigate if you know which towns you are travelling to.

* Check car rental prices for driving in Slovenia

Ljubljana – When you are flying to Slovenia, most flights will arrive in Ljubljana Airport, an international airport and hub for traveling in Slovenia. Taxis will take 35 minutes and cost €60. There are public buses that will take you from Ljubljana Airport to train station in approximately 1.5 hours. The buses cost approx €9 and operate from 5.20am to midnight.

Portoroz  – The airport is only 5km from Portoroz Town.

Maribor  – Ryanair operate from this airport and a bus connects the flight to and from the airport.

* If you prefer an airport transfer for your Slovenia trip, Hoppa operates a cheap airport shuttle that will take you to the city centre or your hotel.

For your Slovenia trip plan, you will need less than one week for a Slovenia vacation. You can spend a weekend within the capital or extend it to include the Alps, the Karst region and Lake Bled.

Travelling Onwards (check visas before you travel)

As Slovenia is a small country, it's easy to combine traveling Slovenia with other counties. If you are planning to solo travel Europe, here's how to get to neighbouring countries.

To  Croatia  – A train runs from Ljubljana to Zagreb and takes 2.5 hours stopping for border control who board the train. If you’re travelling to Hungary as well, consider a  rail pass  for all three countries.

To  Austria  – Trains run from Ljubljana to Villach in Austria and takes 1 hr 45 minutes then you can take the train to your next destination. From Ljubljana to Salzburg it takes 4.5 hours. You can also take the train from Lake Bled to Salzburg.

To  Hungary  – From Ljubljana you can take a non-direct morning train at 6.30am to arrive at 16.30 in Budapest. Consider a  rail pass  for Croatia, Slovenia and Hungary if you’re travelling to all three.

To  Italy – Travel by ferry to Venice or by bus to other cities.

To  Slovakia  – A train runs from Ljubljana to Bratislava.

Where can I go from here?

• Austria – 1 hour
• Serbia – 1.5 hrs
• Bosnia – 1 hour

In addition to our 10 ways on how to be a conscious traveller , there are tours and restaurants that you can visit in Slovenia to help make a difference.

Invisible Ljubljana Tour

During this unique tour you will be guided by a person who has experienced or is experiencing homelessness. They will lead you away from the tourist hot-spots and you will get to experience another side of Ljubljana. During this tour it is encouraged to ask questions about the guide’s experiences and why these spots are important for Ljubljana's homeless population.

This cultural-ecological fellowship offers projects workshops and products that are designed to rethink our attitude towards nature. Their products are handmade and range from bags to ties. You can either shop their products online or at their shop at the old square of Ljubljana.

Gostilna Dela Restaurant

A creation of the Job Factory project, this restaurant employs youth who are threatened by long- term unemployment. Through training and employment, they try to achieve social integration for vulnerable groups.

Second Violin Restaurant

Second Violin is a restaurant that employs intellectually disabled people. The goal is for them to be involved in the majority of society. The restaurant offers delicious dishes of Slovenian cuisine and even gluten free food. They also offer toilet facilities for the physically disabled and menus for the visually disabled.

Stay Eco in Slovenia

Bio Apartments Trnulja

The Trnulja Estate prides itself with being the first sustainable estate in Slovenia. The holiday apartments they offer were built with natural materials and in accordance with the principles of ecological sustainable construction. Their own estate restaurant offers the best of Slovenian cuisine prepared from homegrown organic products (they have their own farm!!!).

• Prices from £95 / €109 per night for a studio apartment
• To book, check prices or availability for Bio Apartments Trnulja

BIOHOTEL St. Daniel

The Hotel St. Daniel certainly screams Green and Sustainable. On their webpage they include every single detail they have included into their ways of managing the hotel to make it more sustainable and eco-friendlier. Their goal is to use solar-energy in 2021, they currently use organic cleaners, offer organic produce at their restaurant, they limit light pollution and food waste, as well as submit to annual ecological controls. This is definitely an impressive hotel with even more impressive goals. Stays are for a minimum of 2 nights.

• Prices from £169 / €194 for 2 nights in a double room
• To book, check prices or availability for BIOHOTEL St. Daniel

Books to read before traveling to Slovenia

• Slovenia – Culture Smart: The Essential Guide to Customs and Culture by Jason Blake
• Slovenology: Living and Traveling in the World's Best Country by Noah Charney 
• The Sunny Side of the Alps: From Scotland to Slovenia on a Shoestring by Roy Clark

• Can I drink the water?  Yes. Some of their water even has healing properties.
• Is tipping expected?  No.
• Fixed price or barter?  Fixed Price.
• Any ATMs?  Yes but take your Visa card as well as a Mastercard.
• Which side of the road do they drive?  Right.
• Good for vegetarians?  Yes.
• Any seven wonders of the world?  No.

If you are ready to solo travel to Slovenia here are some useful links to help you plan your trips to Slovenia, including airlines which fly there, vaccinations required and events and festivals.

Budget – £40 a day

Capital – Ljubljana

Population – 2,062,700

Language spoken – Slovenian

Local Currency – Euro

Do I Need a Visa?

Vaccinations Required

Flying time to Slovenia – 2 hrs

Useful Info

Airlines to Slovenia

The Best Time to Go – July

Which Plug Do I need?

UNESCO Sites in Slovenia

Events and Festivals in Slovenia

Local Cost Guide

Driving Distances

Local Customs & Etiquette

Did you know? More than two thirds of Slovenia is covered by forest.

Lingo –  Useful Slovenian Phrases

Stay in Hotel Planinka

Stay in a Converted Prison 

Volunteering

Volunteering Opportunities for Slovenia

Cultural Experiences

Slovenian Folklore Evening

Mind Body & Soul

Stay At a Yoga Retreat Slovenia

Stay At a Mountain Retreat

Spa Treatments in Slovenia

Weather in Slovenia – Below is an annual weather chart for Slovenia

Related Posts

• Things To Do in Ljubljana
• Solo Travel in Austria
• Solo Travel in Croatia
• Solo Travel in Italy
• GatG Adventures in Slovenia

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Awesome! I can’t wait to visit next month! Thanks for the inspiration 🙂

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13 Things You Should Know BEFORE Driving in Slovenia

Driving in a different country can be daunting and many travelers opt to go without a car. While traveling around Europe is the perfect place to be without a car because many cities have affordable and well-connected public transportation. Having access to a car and driving in Slovenia can help you to reach a lot of places you otherwise couldn’t.

The first few years I lived and traveled Europe my access to a car was limited to friends who had one (which isn’t many) or to rentals. I didn’t drive for years. I was terrified to drive in another country. As an American, I am used to wide roads, slower speed limits, big parking spots, and right turn on red (Pennsylvania represent!).

The decision to start driving again happened after moving to Slovenia. While I live in the capital city, let’s just say I am more in suburbia with a dash of farms. I still greatly benefit from a few bus lines, but it isn’t ideal for getting everywhere and especially in bad weather (see: November-March).

Present-day, I have my own car, which is also my first big adult purchase (yay), and a Slovenian license. Throughout the tedious process of learning the rules of the road, driving school, and a few failed exams I wanted to share with travelers some tips to ease their driving experience in Slovenia.

Driving in another country doesn’t have to be stressful if you familiarize yourself with the basic rules of the road and some street signs. Here are the most significant differences between driving in the US and driving in Slovenia.

Table of Contents

1. Vinjette

This is probably the biggest mistake travelers make when coming to Slovenia . The vinjette ( vinjeta in Slovene) is serious business. You will not be able to get by without one if you are driving on the highways, which you will be. The vinjette is simply a toll similar to paying at a toll booth. With no toll booths this eliminates waits and worries about having correct change.

If you are renting a car in any of the neighboring countries do not forget to stop at a gas station (Petrol, OMV, Agip, MOL) to purchase before crossing the border.

Weekly vinjette 15.00 EUR / Monthly vinjette  30.00 EUR

Penalties run from 300 to 800 EUR.

2. No Parking or Stopping Signs

Round signs with a red outline are called prohibitory signs and yes, they prohibit you from doing something. In this case, we are referring to parking and stopping. The first sign with one line means no parking but if you need to drop off/pick up put on your hazard lights and you may. If there is an X through the sign that means no parking and no stopping, ever.

3. Do Not Enter and One-Way Signs

Now that you are familiarizing with prohibitory signs here are two very important ones. The first one, that looks like a minus sign means do not enter. It is a one-way street.

If the sign is like the one on the right just white with a red outline, that means entry is prohibited for whatever reason.

A blue square sign with a white arrow means you are on a one-way road. Be mindful especially when driving in Ljubljana. Many one-way roads suddenly turn to two-way roads after an intersection.

4. Small Roads!

Roads in Europe are dramatically smaller than American roads. Some roads in Slovenia do not look like two-way roads, but I promise you, they are. Because of this, there are signs to watch out for so you know who has the right of way.

Blue square signs with two arrows,  in opposite directions, and one will be red and one will be white. The white arrow has priority so ideally the other car will pull off to the side and let you go. Of course, it is not always possible so if you have space to allow the other car, it is polite to do so.

5. Speed Limits

Speed limits in the US are posted every so often and vary by the state. In Slovenia, there are set limits that you should memorize as they are often not posted unless there are exceptions or changes.

For example, if you are driving in Ljubljana and see a sign for 60 (km/h) after you cross an intersection the speed will revert back to the standard 50 km/h unless another sign with 60 appears after the intersection.

Speed Limits in Slovenia

• 50 km/h in residental areas
• 90 km/h outside populated areas
• 110 km/h on express roads (blue signs)
• 130 km/h on motorways/highways (green signs)

6. Driving Across Borders

Slovenia is not the only country with a vinjetta . If traveling to Austria they have a similar system so be careful if driving across the border to buy it beforehand.

There are no checks at the border with Italy, Austria, or Hungary you simply drive through. Sometimes they have old checkpoints that you drive through but they are not open anymore. ( Note: Due to COVID-19 there are now checkpoints at the border so you may be stopped and wait times are longer. )

There are checkpoints going into Croatia because it is not in Schengen. Be sure to have your passport and any accompany documents you might need (similar to flying internationally). During the summer months, especially during the weekends, the lines at the border can be hours long so plan accordingly.

Parking is my least favorite thing to do in Europe. It always seems like there is never enough parking regardless of where you are. If you are in Ljubljana, chances are you will have to pay for your parking. You will notice small pay machines on the sidewalk at least one every street or so. You pay at the machine, take your ticket, and place it on the dashboard of your vehicle.

Similar to many other places check the signs along the road which will state the days and times when it is mandatory to pay. Some machines will allow you to pay for longer periods while others max out at 2 hours. Don’t forget to top it up or you will get a ticket.

If you enter a parking lot or garage that gives you a card upon entrance, then you pay before you leave. I repeat. You do not pay at the exit. There are usually pay machines on the ground floor ( pritličje ) or near a pedestrian entrance.

Some parking lots, and especially outside of Ljubljana, have free 2-hour parking. How this works is you place a dashboard clock, or piece of paper stating the time you parked. Be sure to not leave it beyond two hours or you may receive a ticket.

8. Drinking, Cellphones, and Seatbelts

Just like most countries in the world, Slovenia has blood alcohol content limits for driving. The limit is .5 BAC but the truth of the story is don’t drink and drive . Period. Taxis are very cheap and readily available.

Cammeo has a mobile app for Android and iOS .

Taxi Laguna allows you to order a taxi through their site.

Taxi Metro is my personal go to but you will have to call to arrange a pick up.

Cellphones are not allowed to be used while driving not for calls or texts so go hands-free.

Seatbelts are required by all passengers regardless of age and where you are sitting in the car.

9. Lights on!

Headlights are required to be turned on at all times not just in the evening or when it is raining. Some cars have this automatically set but others you will have to remember to put the lights on every time you drive.

10. Required Items

By law, every car must have a first aid kit, spare light bulbs, an orange triangle, and a reflective vest/jacket. If you are pulled over without these items you can receive a fine.

If you break down you are required to place the triangle near your car to alert oncoming traffic, and you are to wear the reflective wear outside of the car.

The good thing is that most rental companies will provide these in your car, but it doesn’t hurt to double-check in case an emergency arises.

12. Emergency Numbers

For emergencies, dialing 911 won’t get you anywhere. In Slovenia, use 112 for medical help or firefighters and 113 for police .

11. International Drivers License

I see a lot of (mis)information online telling travelers they do not need an International Driver’s License when renting and driving in Slovenia. While many anecdotes claim rental companies did not check it is technically the law and you are better off spending the $20 to save yourself a headache.

From my personal experience driving just over the border in Italy is that you 100% should never ever drive without it unless you love paying fines. *If you are driving in Primorska (Western Slovenia) there are a few sections where the road goes into Italy for a few kilometers and then back. Better to be safe than sorry.

Read details about obtaining your International Drivers License from AAA .

13. Driving and Renting Age

The legal driving age in Slovenia is 18 unlike in the US where it is only 16! In the US that makes sense because unless you live in a huge city, you probably don’t have reliable public transportation. In many European countries, the public transport system is vast and efficient.

In Slovenia, you can rent a car at 18 as long as you had your license for 1 year. There may be additional fees for renters under the age of 25.

Driving in Slovenia Resources

Familiarize yourself with European road signs by country .

Read the official Slovenian transportation website for more information (available in English).

Where to rent a car in Slovenia?

I imagine if you are renting a car in Slovenia then you will be doing so at the Ljubljana International Airport. There are around 11 rental companies that operate at the airport. I tend to recommend the following companies as their prices are reasonable and I have had good experiences with them.

Plan a road trip through Slovenia

After checking out the Definitive Guide to Traveling to Slovenia (Summer 2020 Edition) here are some road trip ideas for Slovenia.

• Drive up to Mangart Saddle , the highest road in Slovenia
• Take a day trip to Lake Bled and surrounding sights.
• A road trip through Slovenian wine region, Goriška Brda
• Take a castle-inspired road trip
• Choose from 20 different day trips from Ljubljana .

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Thank you for taking the time to read this guide and as always feel free to direct any questions or comments below. Safe travels!

4 thoughts on “13 Things You Should Know BEFORE Driving in Slovenia”

Heading to Slovenia this summer–this is incredibly helpful! Thank you so much! (Delaware representing–a stone’s throw from PA)

Ah I hope you have a lovely time!

Thank you so much for the information! You spared me a lot of anxiety heading into my trip this week.

Yay! Have a great and safe trip.

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The Perfect Slovenia Itinerary for 3, 5, 7 or 10+ Days

• April 9, 2019

Shanna Schultz

Inside this post...

Planning the perfect Slovenia itinerary can be daunting.  With so many utterly jaw dropping landscapes and so much beauty packed into such a small package, how do you know where to start?

Slovenia is a relatively small country.  It is 1/10th the size of Washington State here in the US.  Despite its small size, it contains a surprising variety of different landscapes.  

We spent two weeks in Slovenia and still felt like it wasn’t enough.  I realize that not everyone has this much time to spend in one spot when there is SOOO much of Europe to see.  This is why instead of offering our whole Slovenia itinerary from beginning to end, I am breaking it apart by components.  

Once I explain the pieces, I will offer suggestions at the end for how to combine them most efficiently to plan the perfect Slovenia itinerary, dependent on your interests and how much time you have to spend in Slovenia.

Table of Contents

How much time to spend in slovenia, planning your time and getting around slovenia, the best places to visit in slovenia, putting together your slovenia itinerary.

• Our Complete Slovenia Itinerary for 14 days

Many folks visit Slovenia as an add on to another trip in the area.  They visit on the way to or from Croatia or Venice or another nearby country.  They stay for a couple days, see the highlights and move on to their target. In moving on too quickly, they miss so much of what this amazing country has to offer.

If at all possible, give Slovenia a few more days.  Even a week or two. You will not regret it. If you don’t, I can promise you that you will be making a return trip to see more of what you missed.

Slovenia is pretty small, and for the most part the road system is excellent.  If you start in the center, you can get to many parts of the country in under an hour and a half, making much of the country accessible by day trip.  That being said, the further off the main roads you get, the slower you will move. Many secondary roads in Slovenia are mountainous and/or gravel.

In addition, if you are heading into the mountains, you should add extra time in Slovenia travel itinerary.  Getting up into and around the mountains also takes more time because of smaller roads.

While there is SO MUCH MORE to see in each of these areas, Piran and Lake Bled CAN be done as day trips from Ljubljana.  Also, if you prefer to stay in a more rural environment and are less interested in immersing yourself in Ljubljana, you can choose to stay near Lake Bled like we did and visit Ljubljana as a day trip from there.

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Not everyone has the same interests when visiting a country.  Some folks like the more outdoors and adventure, some like more cute little towns and castles.  I could go on and on. You get the idea.

Before I make suggestions for putting together the perfect Slovenia itinerary for your family, I want to give you an overview of the different regions that we visited, the best cities to visit in Slovenia as well as what to see there and in between.  I will also make suggestions based on our experience for a minimum of how long you need to spend in each place.

Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia and it is delightful city to explore.  You can spend your time meandering its’ cobbled streets, taking a lovely free walking tour or peruse the worthwhile Saturday market.  

Ljubljana makes a great day out for families with its funicular and castle, a great park, lots of ice cream stops and an amusing Museum of Illusions.  A large portion of the city is car free making it less stressful to visit with kids.

Those with an interest in architecture might enjoy a tour of Jože Plečnik’s notable works of architecture in the city.  In addition, you will want to visit the famed Dragon Bridge and the Triple Bridge. Don’t worry, they are hard to miss…both are right in the heart of Slovenia’s Old Town which is where you will likely be spending the majority of your time.

Ljubljana is easily worth 1-2 days.  If you are really into history or architecture, you might enjoy more time here.  I felt that 1-2 days was sufficient to see the highlights and not have the kids get bored.

Here is a link to our full rundown of how we spent our time in Ljubljana with kids .

Lake Bled is truly stunning.  It really is as beautiful as it looks in all of those pictures you see of it plastered all over the internet.  It also is one of the most touristy spots in the country. Despite this, it really needs to have a prime spot on your Slovenia itinerary, even if you are only visiting for a few days.

While in the area, you will want to walk around the lake to get all possible views of its epic beauty. You will want to take a pletna boat out to the island.  Many folks also enjoy taking one of the short hiking trails up to one of the viewpoints on the west end of the lake for better views. There are also lovely views from Straza Bled, the hill with the mountain roller coaster near the lake (our kids LOVED this!)

If you have more than once day in the area, you will also want to make sure that you take the easy hike at Vintgar Gorge.

Staying outside of Lake Bled will give you a break from the tourist crowds.  In the summertime, you will want to make sure to visit the most popular Lake Bled attractions early in the day to minimize crowds.

Because many of these sights are weather dependent, we chose to spend six nights in the area.  During this time, we saw Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge, Lake Bohinj and the Vrsic pass as well as two days in Ljubljana. Spending more time in the area will give you a better chance of being able to see key sights on days when you have stellar weather, and to fill in better “rain day” activities on other days.

To summarize, you will need one day to see Lake Bled (and this CAN be done on a daytrip from Ljubljana).  You need a second day to hit Vintgar Gorge, one additional day for Lake Bohinj and/or AT LEAST one extra day for the Vrsic Pass.

Here is a link to details of the time we spent near Lake Bled:

Lake Bled with Kids Hiking the Vintgar Gorge Lake Bohinj Slovenia with Kids

Vrsic Pass/Triglav National Park

The Vrsic Pass drive typically starts about 45 minutes from Lake Bled in the north of the country near Kranska Gora with Lake Jasna.  From here, you will continue up and over the mountain pass eventually ending in the Soca Valley and Bovec.  This region is epic and the water of the Soca River really is as blue as you see in the pictures.

Try to plan your drive over the pass for a sunny day for best views and river shots.

If you start early, you can drive the Vrsic pass in one day.  If you need to get back to Lake Bled, there is a car train that you can get on to take you back and shorten your return drive a bit.

Here are the details of our day driving the Vrsic Pass an d the beautiful Soca Valley.

Soca Valley / Bovec

Bovec is the city on the far side of the Vrsic Pass.  This is a haven for adventure sports such as rafting, hiking, via ferrata, etc.  It is also a region rich in WWI history. While the pass can be done in one day, adding on the Soca River AND the sights around Bovec in one day is a stretch, especially if you need to get back to Ljubljana or Lake Bled.  

Geographically, there really isn’t a good way to get back here again because it is cut off by the mountains, so we squashed it all into one day. We did it, but it was a long day and we missed some things that we wanted to see.

Spending a second day in this area is ideal to avoid feeling rushed.  Trust me. After getting down from the pass at around lunch time, we spent a chunk of time taking photos of the captivating blue river.  Then we continued our whirlwind tour by hiking to a waterfall and seeing an open air WWI history museum. By the time we finished all of that it was dinner time, and we got back to our accomodation in Lake Bled well after dark.

Other sights in the area that we missed include the Tolmin Gorge, an excellent WWI museum in Kobarid and Slap Kozjak (one of the most visited waterfalls in the country.)

We couldn’t do this tour with the kids, but I wished that we could. An amazing day of beautiful scenery and adventure including the Vrsic Pass and rafting the Soca River. A great way to see a lot in a little time!

Piran and the region around it are Slovenia’s beautiful Mediterranean coastal jewel.  The scenery changes dramatically as you approach this area, shifting from mountainous to downright tropical very quickly, leaving you wondering when you suddenly crossed the border into Mediterranean Italy by accident.

Piran is the main draw in this area, but this region is also an ideal base for exploring some the countries most popular tourist sights including Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle.  The region is awash with little towns and villages to explore, each one cuter than the next.

Piran itself is small and compact and it can be explored in a day or even a half day.  If you are planning on seeing Postojna Caves or Predjama Castle from here, add another day.  If you have more time and are interested, you could easily spend another day drinking your way through the wine region near here and perusing a few more pretty villages, or spending a day at one of Slovenia’s few Mediterranean beaches.

Here are details of our time spend in and around Piran:

Piran Slovenia with Kids Koper and Izola Slovenia: Picture Perfect Towns on Slovenia’s Mediterranean Coast Predjama Castle and Postona Cave

Eastern Slovenia

We did not make it into eastern Slovenia on this trip.  Most folks visit Western Slovenia because of the high concentration of epic scenery.  While he scenery in Eastern Slovenia may not be as dramatic, the region is known for producing wine and it has a number of worthy cities and sights.

The region is anchored by the cities of Maribor and Ptuj.  Outside of exploring these, I had also noted a few castles to explore as well as a variety of lovely hot springs.  I am sorry that I cannot yet offer more insights here – we had to leave this for another trip.

3 Days in Slovenia

Unless you are LITERALLY just passing through one city on the way to somewhere else, 3 days in Slovenia is the minimum amount of time to “see” something of Slovenia.  Ljubljana and Lake Bled are two of the most visited parts of Slovenia for a reason. Seeing these highlights will give you a small but sweet taste of what the rest of Slovenia has to offer.

I would suggest spending one day in Ljubljana and two in Lake Bled or vice versa.  This will depend on what your interested in. If you are more into cities, spend extra time in Ljubljana.  If nature is more your thing, spend an extra day around Lake Bled and hike the Vintgar Gorge or explore lake Bohinj.

If you won’t have a car, getting between Ljubljana and Lake Bled is an easy connection with trains regularly throughout the day.  There are also a number of wonderful tours that you can take to see Lake Bled from Ljubljana.

If one or the other of those cities to visit in Slovenia aren’t of interest to you, Postojna Caves/Predjama Castle or Piran are also doable as day trips from Ljubljana and could be substituted in this Slovenia trip itinerary.

Option 1 (2 Days in Ljubljana, 1 in Lake Bled):

• Day One (Ljubljana): Free Ljubljana Walking Tour, Ljubljana Central Market, Ice Cream at Vigo
• Day Two (Ljubljana): Ljubljana Castle and Funnicular, Lunch in Tivoli Park (eat a horse burger at nearby Hot Horse if you are feeling adventurous). Dinner at Gostlina Sokol and wander around the old town after dark for some of those stunning night views of the bridges.
• Day Three (Lake Bled): Get an early start and head up to lake Bled.  Walk around the lake. Eat some of that amazing Bled cream cake.

Option 2 (1 Day in Ljubljana, 2 in Lake Bled):  

• Day One (Ljubljana): AM: Ljubljana Castle and Funnicular, 11am Free Walking Tour, Ljubljana Central Market, Dinner at Gostlina Sokol, ice cream for dessert at Vigo.  This is doable in one day because Ljubljana is so compact and all of these things are in the same area.
• Day Two (Lake Bled): Get an early start and head up to lake Bled.  Walk around the lake. Eat some of that amazing Bled cream cake.  Spend the night in Lake Bled area.
• Day Three (Lake Bled): Either get an early start and head to Vintgar Gorge before the crowds, or go to Lake Bohinj for a more rural, rustic lake experience.

Options 3 (Highlights of Slovenia):

• Day Two (Lake Bled): Get an early start and head up to lake Bled.  Walk around the lake. Eat some of that amazing Bled cream cake.  Spend the night back in Ljubljana.
• Day Three (Postojna Cave/Predjama Castle): Drive or take public transit from Ljubljana to Postojna Cave/Predjama Castle. Spend the day exploring these beautiful sites which are among the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

5 Days in Slovenia

Pick one of the above options for a 3 day itinerary to give you a solid base for your trip.  To it you can add one of the following to make a well rounded Slovenia itinerary 5 days:

Option 1: Two days in Driving the Vrsic Pass/Soca Valley

• Day One: Leave from Lake Bled early.  Head for Kranska Gora which is at the start of the Vrsic Pass. Enjoy views of Lake Jasna before heading over the pass.  Spend a couple hours driving over the Vrsic Pass and continue through the Soca Valley. Plan on staying in or around Bovec.
• Day Two:  Spend the second day exploring one of the areas stunning waterfalls, the Tolmin Gorge, or one of the many enlightening WWI historical sites.

Option 2: Two Days Exploring Piran and the Coast

• Day One: Head for Piran and those epic views of the Mediterranean that you see all over Pinterest. Enjoy exploring this coastal gem.  If you are carless, there are tours that will take you to Piran and to explore some of the coast from Ljubljana.
• Day Two:   Postojna Cave/Predjama Castle – These are super popular tourist spots in Slovenia for good reason.  They really are pretty amazing. They are an easy drive from Ljubljana or Piran, or if you are carless you can easily book a tour.

1 Week in Slovenia Itinerary

If you are lucky enough to have a week in Slovenia, consider picking your favorites from the above options.  You also have time to dig in a little deeper, to get past some of the main tourist sites that EVERYBODY goes to and to explore themes that interest in you in a deeper way.

Here are some more options for you to consider for spending 7 days in Slovenia:

• Logar Valley/Solcava Panoramic Road (two days): Because the drive here is a little longer than some of the others, you should really plan for a minimum of two nights here.  You will also need to rent a car to get around here. If you want to see this stunning corner of Slovenia but won’t have a car, here is an excellent tour of the area that can be arranged from Lake Bled.
• Wine Lover:  Consider digging deeper into one of the Slovenian wine regions that are close to Ljubljana.  Slovenian wine is a little off the beaten path and it is made with some varieties of grapes that at not well known elsewhere. I read some lovely things about visiting the Vipava Valley west of Ljubljana.
• Eastern Slovenia:   Head to Eastern Slovenia for stunning castles, hot springs and wine.
• Velika Planina:   We did not make it here (I DID tell you that 14 days in Slovenia was not enough for us, didn’t I?)  It was not for lack of desire because this area looks truly stunning. In the summer time, you can visit the herdsman settlement here and see how the cow herders live as well as try fresh dairy and local foods for an authentic cultural experience.
• Spend a Day or Two Exploring Small Villages: Slovenia is awash with picture worthy small villages , many of them nearly devoid of tourists and just begging to be explored.  Skofja Loka, Radovlica, Kamnik or any of the other small villages around Ljubljana would make lovely places to visit.
• Get Even more off the beaten path in Bela Krajina: Slovenia is pretty off the beaten path by almost any standards.  The Bela Krajina region in southern Slovenia even more so. Visit stunning Novo Mesto with its medieval old town.  Swim in the Kolpa River, one of the warmest swimming spots in Slovenia and right on the border of Croatia. Immerse yourself in nature and embrace a slower pace. Pop across the border for a day trip to Zagreb, Croatia.

If you are passionate about getting off the beaten path like we are, you really need to get this book. This was the best book that I read while planning out trip to Slovenia:

10 Days in Slovenia Itinerary (or more!)

Is 10 days in Slovenia too long?  We spent 14 days in Slovenia and we still felt rushed.  There are a ton of sights that I had to put onto a list for our next trip.  

Three nights in each spot is not as much time as you would like it to be. Travel time to the next spot takes part of one day in between, so three nights equals two full days of sightseeing and a travel day.

We chose to arrange our trip a little bit differently.  Instead of spending time in Ljubljana using that as a base, we chose to base ourselves near Lake Bled for a large portion of our trip and we made day trips to Ljubljana from there.  We prefer to be in a more rural environment and we find it easier with the kids to stay in a place with green space for them to run around.

While not for everybody, this worked really well for us because we were able to fit the activities that really needed nice weather into the sunny days, and we fit other day trips in around that.

The individual posts for each piece of the trip are linked below for your reference.

1 Night in Ljubljana

Vila Veselova made a convenient base for exploring the old town and its many bridges. It was only a few blocks away but located in a safe, quiet neighborhood. The hostel had a quircky charm that we loved. Our room was PERFECT for our family of five.

***We had originally booked one night here to get our bearings, thinking that we would be tired from driving.  We discovered that the drive from Ljubljana to Lake Bled was easy and we could have skipped this night in Ljubljana. We used that first evening to explore the old town a little bit at night.

• Day 1 – Ljubljana : Explored Ljubljana Old Town, free walking tour, ice cream at Vigo.  Dinner at Gostlina Sokol.

6 Nights Near Lake Bled

We stayed for the next 6 nights of our trip at Tourist Farm Dolinar Krainer , about 10 minutes outside of Lake Bled in a small village up in the hills. In addition to a large, well appointed apartment, we were spoiled with the most lovely, farm fresh breakfast every morning. An amazing base for exploring Lake Bled. You can read a full account of our farmstay experience here .

• Day 1: Vintgar Gorge
• Day 2: Lake Bled
• Day 3: Vrsic Pass / Soca Valley / Virje Waterfall / Kolvrat Open Air Museum
• Day 4: Ljubljana – Museum of Illusions, Tivoli Park, Ljubljana Central Market
• Day 5: Lake Bohinj, Vogel Cable Car, Slap Savica
• Day 6: Check out of Farm Stay Dolinar Krainer.  Drive to Solcava. Stopped at Radovlica en route.

3 Nights Near Solcava

We spent the next three nights near Solcava at Tourist Farm Ramsak . This gem was in a quiet valley up the road from the village of Solcava. We had the most adorable little chalet all to ourselves, with a stunning view of the mountains from our balcony. We were extremely well fed here as well (I particularly LOVED the homemade yogurt from the cows each morning!)

• Day 1:   Solcava Panoramic Road
• Day 2: Logar Valley / Slap Rinka, more Solcava Panoramic Road
• Day 3:   Check out of Tourist farm Ramsak.  Drive towards Piran. Stop at Postojna Cave / Predjama Castle and Technical Museum of Slovenia en route.

3 Nights Near Piran

We spent the last three nights of our stay at Tourist Farm Tonin , located in the small village of Puce, not far from Piran. We had two lovely apartments here (we booked both apartments and had the whole place to ourselves). Such nice views of the beautiful Mediterranean sunsets from here.

• Day 1: Slept in.   Visited Piran in afternoon .
• Day 2: Koper and Izola Slovenia
• Day 3: Checked out early and to head back towards airport.

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Travelling with 1 adult and 3 kids.

We'd be coming from the uk so driving there is a possibility.

I'm trying to get a rough cost of a 2 week trip before putting lots of time in to an itinerary.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Slovenia | a road trip across lakes, valleys and the coast

Mediterranean flair, like a flawless mixture of Italian, Austrian and Hungarian influences, but with a pinch of more serenity. Coastal roads framed by cypresses, a perfectly cozy capital, and surprising landscapes with turquoise rivers and impressive mountains. Your Slovenia itinerary leads you right through this exciting culture and nature.

Table of contents

Stunning Vintgar Gorge

Places to visit on your Slovenia itinerary

Ljubljana | the cozy capital, todo in ljubljana:.

• Ljubljanka river – Either just walk along the river, cross its bridges that remind of Venice, or take a boat trip to see the city from a different angle.
• Presernov Square & the triple bridge Tromostovje – With a great view of the river and the castle, this bustling square is a meeting point for many and is right at the city’s most beautiful bridge (actually three bridges that are connected).
• Old alleys in the historic center – The cobblestoned alleys around Mestni trg and Stari trg are full of cute cafes, small boutiques, and delicatessen shops. No chain stores in sight – I loved it!
• Castle of Ljubljana – Enjoy the view from the top across Ljubljana – you can either walk up or take the cable car (why not combine a cable car ride with a walking tour? )
• Metelkova art quarter – These former barracks have been transformed into an alternative quarter full of art galleries and in the evenings its bars are filled with music acts.
• Munch – Try local food in a food tour , or Slovenian wine tasting , or combine a food and wine tour , yum!

Stay in Ljubljana:

• Eagle’s Nest – A beautiful, clean apartment in a quiet neighborhood close to the center but also perfect as a base for day trips
• Pearl of Sava Wild Waters   – If you prefer staying in nature so you can go hiking or kayaking but you’re also in the city within 10 minutes
• Celica Hostel – A unique stay awarded by Lonely Planet as the hippest hostel in the world, as this is a former prison transformed into a stylish place by numerous artists

Impressions of Ljubljana

Lakes | Bled, Bohinj & Vintgar Canyon

ToDo around Lake Bled:

• Viewpoints – Hike up to one of the iconic viewpoints Mala Osojnica or Ojstrica
• Vintgar Gorge – Take an easy 2km hike into the stunning canyon along a milky-turquoise river
• Try Bled Cream Cake – the famous sweet treat

Stay at Lake Bled:

• Penzion Berc   – A cute small, family-run hotel where you can rent e-bikes for free just a few minutes from the lake
• Rikli Balance Hotel   – A beautiful, modern hotel with lake views and a small pool

The iconic Lake Bled (pictures provided by Marjut from The Smooth Escape )

Lake Bohinj

Slovenia’s largest lake is popular for swimming and sunbathing in summer. Yet, it’s less touristy than Lake Blad and large enough to enjoy it without any crowds. It’s such a clear lake and the perfect starting point for hikes into Triglav National Park.

ToDo around Lake Bohinj:

• Swim in Lake Bohinj – Go swimming & enjoy the sun
• Savica Waterfall – Take a short hike to this beauty
• Ride the cable car up to Vogel – for amazing views of the lake and the Julian Alps
• Mount Triglav – If you’re brave, hike to the peak or take one of the many hiking trails in the national park

Stay at Lake Bohinj:

• Bohinj Eco Hotel – An awarded eco-hotel (“the most energy efficient hotel in the region” as they say)
• Hotel Majerca – An extremely beautiful boutique hotel designed with love and a focus on sustainability

Zelenci Nature Reserve

• Walk across the wooden paths along the lake
• Take one of the many hikes, e.g. walk part of the Camino de Santiago

Vintgar Gorge

The coast & wine region | Piran, Koper & Izola

• Tartinijev trg ( Tartini square ) – in the heart of the historic center where you can truly feel the Italian vibes due to the Italian architecture
• Walls of Piran – for beautiful views take a walk along the historic city walls, especially for sunset
• Cathedral St. George – Another great viewpoint
• Beachtime – Hang out by the sandy beach of Portoroz
• Memento B&B – A small, stylish hotel in a historic small alley in the heart of Piran run by warm-hearted owners
• Vila Piranesi – Small apartment in the center of Piran with a spectacular view of the harbor

Beautiful Piran

• Medieval streets – Stroll through the narrow alleys full of cute boutiques and chic restaurants
• Tito square – Once the center of the island
• Venetian Palaces – Visit Loggia Palace or Praetorian Palace for insights into Venetian Gothic times
• Izola – this cute fishing village is worth a day trip

Impressions of the Slovenian coast

Postojna cave & Predjama castle

• Theodosius Forrest Village – A very special stay in a wooden bungalow in the middle of nature with a spa area

Valleys & mountains

Soča valley  (bovec).

• Old stone bridges – The small settlement Kanal ob Soči right on the river with its beautiful old stone bridge, and the Napoleon bridge close to Kobarid are two beautiful photo spots
• Waterfalls – Slap Kozjak (close to Napoleon bridge) is often referred to as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Slovenia, but Virje and Boka also offer a refreshing experience
• Jasna Lake – a gorgeous stop with a beautiful mountain panorama
• Swim in the Soča –In case you’re there around summer, the river is also popular to get refreshed from the heat
• Go rafting or canoeing – There are many water activities on the river in summer

Goriška Brda wine region

• Wine tasting – Visit a winery to taste Slovenian wine
• Gonjače Lookout Tower – For a great panoramic view across the vineyards
• Šmartno – A cute medieval town on a hill right among the wine-growing area
• Belica   – A beautiful small hotel in the picturesque town Medana

Stunning Soča Valley

Stunning Soča Valley (picture by The Smooth Escape)

Triglav National Park & Vrata Valley

• Vrata valley – There are countless hiking routes and activities in this scenic valley that stretches over 11 km
• Peričnik waterfalls – As high as 52 meters, you can even walk behind the waterfall. Sounds like in a fairy tale, right?
• Rent an e-bike – If you fancy a faster way than hiking, why not rent an e-bike?

Velika Planina

• Hiking – well, obviously this region is a paradise for hiking fans
• Take the cable car – Close to the town Kamnik you can also take a cable car up to the settlement
• Springs Izvir Kamniške Bistrice –  The three springs of the Kamniška Bistrica river swell close to Velika Planina, making it a stunning hike

Slovenia itinerary

7 days slovenia itinerary.

• Enter Slovenia through Austria and make a stop at Lake Bled on the way
• Spend 3 nights in Ljubljana to visit the city and do day trips to Velika Planina, and to Lake Bled (if you haven’t already stopped there on the way)
• On the way to the coast, you can quickly stop at Postojna Cave or Predjama castle if you’d like to
• Stay 2 nights around Piran or Koper and do day trips to the other town, to Izola, and to Goriška Brda (wine region)
• On your way back north drive through the Soča Valley. Take your time & do many stops.
• If there’s enough time, I highly recommend spending one night somewhere in the Soča Valley
• Soča Valley ⇨ back north through Austria or Italy

10 days Slovenia itinerary

• After a few days in and around Lake Bled, it’s less than one hour from Lake Bled to Ljubljana. On the way, the old medieval town Škofja Loka is a perfect stop on the way.
• Within around 1.5 hours you can reach Piran from Ljubljana. So you can easily take a stop in Postojna & the Predjama castle during the day. If you want to take it more slowly, you can also spend a night close to Postojna.
• After a few relaxed days by the sea, head towards the wine region. As you can take more time, you don’t have to rush through Goriška Brda on a day trip, but also spend a bit longer there.
• Goriška Brda is almost in the Soča valley. Within just a few minutes you’re at the river Soča. Take as many stops as you want to in the Soča Valley all the way to Nova Gorica. And make sure to spend a few days here to enjoy lots of activities.
• On the way back Slovenia’s highest pass (Vršič pass) is the last highlight of your Slovenia itinerary. It’s not far from the Italian and Austrian borders.
• In case you have to return your rental car in Ljubljana, it’s also only 1.5 hours from Vršič pass back to the capital.

Slovenia itinerary (click for interactive map)

More on slow travel

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To slovenia by car.

A car allows the easiest way to travel around the country. For driving on motorways, it is mandatory for you to have a vignette.

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Important regulations

Service stations, vehicle rental, roadside assistance.

• Tolling systems in Slovenia (e-vignette)

Travelling with a motor home

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If you choose to come to Slovenia by car, here are some useful tips on road use in Slovenia and what items you will need.

The following speed limits apply on Slovenian roads:

built-up/residential area

regional roads

express roads

Among the traffic regulations you should note the obligatory use of dipped (low-beam) headlights even during daytime driving. U se of fog lights is permitted only where visibility is reduced to less than 50 metres. The driver and all passengers in the vehicle must wear seat belts . You must carry in your car the obligatory equipment , which includes a safety triangle, a spare set of lights, a first aid kit and a reflective vest. From 15 November to 15 March your vehicle must have winter equipment – winter tyres with a profile of at least 3 mm or summer tyres and snow chains in the boot (trunk). The maximum permitted blood alcohol level for drivers is 0.5 parts per thousand . Since alcohol breath tests for drivers are very common, it is better to not drink anything .

Service stations with petrol pumps are located about every 30 km along motorways and they operate 24 hours a day . There are also plenty of petrol stations in cities and smaller towns. All petrol stations offer unleaded petrol, diesel and at certain stations LPG . The prices of motor fuels at all service stations in Slovenia are determined by the providers themselves. Visit a special website to check out the prices of fuels at a particular service station.

You can rent a car at specialised agencies in towns and at airports. Fleets comprise vehicles of various categories. To rent a car you need to be at least 21 years old and have held a driving licence for at least two years. Some car rental agencies require a young driver surcharge payment for drivers aged between 21 and 25.

Avto moto zveza Slovenije  –  AMZS provides 24-hour assistance  and towing. If you break down, call 1987 .

Toll collection in Slovenia

Motorcycles, passenger cars and vehicles with a maximum permissible weight not exceeding 3.5 tonnes must, in order to drive on all Slovenian motorways and expressways operated and maintained by the toll road operator, be equipped with a e-vignette .

Slovenian e-vignettes can be purchased online only on the official website https://evinjeta.dars.si/ .

All other providers offering the purchase of Slovenian e-vignettes via their websites are not officially authorised to sell e-vignettes and therefore vignettes purchased there are not valid!

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Types and prices of vignettes

The e-vignette is a modern way of paying a toll that does not differ significantly from the classic sticker vignette in terms of basic features and price.

The e-vignette is linked to the vehicle registration number. At the time of purchase, it is necessary to enter the correct registration number and country of registration of the vehicle and select the e-vignette for the correct toll class.

Purchase of vignette

The e-vignette can be purchased online , at the DarsGo service or at authorised points of sale . The e-vignette must be paid before you start driving on the motorway or expressway .

All other providers offering the purchase of Slovenian e-vignettes via their websites are not officially authorised to sell e-vignettes and therefore vignettes purchased there are not valid !

For online payment, the vignette can be paid by debit or credit card (Mastercard, Visa, Maestro), PayPal or bank transfer. For payment by card or PayPal , the vignette can take effect immediately after the payment , and in the case of bank transfer the first possible day of validity of the e-vignette is four (4) working days from the date of the offer .

Do not risk driving on the motorways without the vignette sticker, since the penalties are severe . The penalty for driving on a motorway without a valid vignette or without paying the toll is a fine of EUR 300 to 800 .

Validity of vignettes

The use of the vignette is not tied to the kilometres travelled , while the following time limits apply:

• The annual vignette is valid for one year (12 months) and is tied to the date of entry into force set by the customer.
• The half-year vignette is valid for six months from the date of entry into force determined by the customer, or until the end of the last day of the sixth month if there is no such date in the sixth month.
• The monthly vignette is valid from the date of entry into force determined by the customer to the end of the last day in the next month, or to the end of the last day in the month if there is no such date in the next month.

The weekly vignette is valid for seven consecutive calendar days from and including the day of entry into force determined by the customer.

The date of validity of the vignette can be set up to a maximum of 30 days in advance (including the day of purchase).

More information

For journeys on the motorway from Austria to the Hrušica exit towards the interior of Slovenia and vice versa , vignettes are not required . The toll paid for the Karavanke Tunnel is valid for travel between the first motorway exits on both sides of the national border (in Slovenia the Hrušica exit , in Austria the Podrožca/Rosenbach exit ).

Further information

Check on which cases you are eligible for a replacement vignette or a refund. More information on the DARS website .

Buses, motor homes, lorries

DarsGo is a modern electronic tolling system in the free traffic flow for vehicles whose maximum permitted weight exceeds 3.5 tonnes. Toll charge per km driven for vehicles whose maximum permissible weight exceeds 3,500 kg is stipulated by the government of the Republic of Slovenia. Toll varies based on the particular motorway section and the toll-rate category or emission standard of the vehicle. In the DarsGo system, toll charging is fully automated and based on the distance travelled.

More information about the e-vignette

Travelling with a motor home is becoming increasingly popular, including in Slovenia. You will need to have the right category of licence, and while travelling all passengers need to be in seats with seat belts fastened. Overnight stays are permitted at motor home rest areas and campsites .

Get to know the green country

Climb up a nearby hill or mountain, relax in a thermal spa, visit interesting current events and, above all, treat yourself to a culinary experience involving the Slovenian delicacies.

Facts about Slovenia

Slovenia: a land of hospitable people and unforgettable experiences in the heart of Europe.

Practical info

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Must-see attractions in green Slovenia!

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From luxury hotels to tourist farms, from private rooms to camping grounds. An exclusive offer of glamping accommodation or staying at the vineyard cottages. In Slovenia, you will find accommodation to suit every budget and every taste.

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Spas and health resorts

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

Arts and Culture

Slovenia boasts a rich cultural tradition.

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Love is experienced through the stomach.

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