You shift gears, we shift destinations. Our list of Slovenia’s top attractions is at your disposal. From classic touristy must-sees, to outdoor activities in places you never knew existed, each location’s itinerary is planned to perfection. On this holiday, the entire country is yours for the taking. Too many optional extras to choose from? No worries, you can always extend your holiday to check a few more off your list.
The superb thing about driving across Slovenia is that the distances are short, the traffic light, and the roads are of good quality. But don’t let its size fool you; Slovenia is among the most diverse places on Earth. You will be staying in cosy accommodations, located in the heart of the place you are exploring.
Your road-trip begins in Ljubljana, Europe’s greenest and most charming capital. Heading east, you’ll arrive in Maribor, our second largest city, followed by Ptuj, the oldest town dating back to Roman times. Each of these urban destinations and their outskirts have ample opportunities to keep you entertained. The road then takes you to the majestic Kamnik-Savinja Alps, where you’ll discover some of the most picturesque corners of Slovenia, before moving on to world-famous Lake Bled. Within the magical embrace of Triglav National Park, you will fall in love with Lake Bohinj, enjoy the Alpine resort of Kranjska Gora, and the scenic paradise of Soča Valley. This region promises incredible hiking, cycling, rafting, ziplining, rock climbing and canyoning, to list just a few wonderful activities.
From the highlands of Kobarid and Tolmin, with its lovely gorges and waterfalls, you’ll make your way across Slovenia’s windswept Karst, where visits to the spellbinding Postojna Cave and the medieval phenomenon of Predjama Castle are obligatory. The next stop is the coast, where the Mediterranean climate and pretty seaside towns of Piran, Koper and Portorož with their surrounding treasures will present you with yet another face of Slovenia’s diverse character. The vineyards of Goriška Brda, and the nearby winegrowing gem of Vipava Valley are sure to satisfy all your senses. Then, on the final leg of your journey, you’ll pass a few more gorgeous sites, including a UNESCO cave system, before coming full circle in Ljubljana.
You will pick up your car in Ljubljana and get briefed on your itinerary. Wandering around Ljubljana will keep you highly entertained as well as give you a chance to acclimatize to the magical ambience of the place.
Discovering the best of Styria, Slovenia’s eastern regions, is unbelievable. Ptuj, the oldest town in Slovenia, nestled on the banks of the Drava River, and Maribor, the capital of Styria, and the home of the oldest grapevine in the world, will give you a sense of how deep the roots of Slovenia’s history reach.
Your first taste of the Slovenian Alps will come in the form of one of the most scenic valleys in the country, Logar Valley. Spend the day amidst towering mountains with great possibilities for hiking, waterfalls and remarkable views. Enjoy scenic rides on panoramic roads with plenty of stops at mountain passes to truly take in this fascinating wilderness.
Heading onwards through the mountains with a short-cut through Austria, you will arrive in Jezersko, a picturesque haven on the other side of the Kamnik-Savinja alpine range. This charming Alpine corner tucked away from civilisation will inspire you with its tranquillity and rustic atmosphere.
Slovenia’s most prized attraction, Lake Bled, will give you plenty to write home about. There are tons of things to do and see in and around the town of Bled. Breath-taking viewpoints, scenic hiking trails, traditional sightseeing of historical places like the Bled Castle… You decide how active or leisurely your stay in Bled will be.
A short drive from Bled in its magnificent counterpart – Lake Bohinj. Perched in the heart of the Julian Alps in the world-renowned Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj and its surroundings are a nature enthusiast’s refuge beyond description. The area offers countless options of spending time in the wild outdoors; be it hiking, cycling or gravity-defying mountain climbing. Additional thrills can be had in the nearby canyons and rivers, or you can opt for some tranquil relaxation at the lakeshore. Spectacular views are guaranteed either way.
You cannot explore the Alps without visiting the famous alpine resort of Kranjska Gora and enjoying its mountainous setting. A network of beautiful hiking and cycling trails, the picturesque Lake Jasna and the panoramic drive up to Vršič Pass, will make you want to return to this place for a whole week.
The fairy-tale land of Soča Valley and the adrenaline capital of Slovenia called Bovec are simply too beautiful to describe. You can choose to spend the day hiking in the area, chasing waterfalls, or getting your adrenaline rush by going rafting, canyoning or ziplining. Whatever your preference, filmmakers of the Narnia movies certainly knew why they chose this location to shoot their fantasy flick.
Further down the Soča River, you will enter the historic gem of Kobarid. Famous for its role in WWI, Kobarid invites you to visit its award-winning museum. Or you can decide to tick the nature trail and snap a photo of Kozjak Waterfall instead, or even try climbing some of the epic mountains in the local area to discover which famous WWI battles took place there. The next town on your itinerary is Tolmin with its marvellous gorges, before heading to Slovenia’s unforgettable Karst region.
And you are off to your next destination, a dreamy location of rolling hills with medieval villages, old villas and chateaux vineyards as far as the eye can see. Goriška Brda, famous as one of the finest wine regions of Slovenia offer not only spectacular views and wines, but also excellent cuisine, friendly locals and a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
One of the most unique Slovenian regions and landscapes is undoubtedly the Karst. With its plethora of underground caves, you are bound to visit at least one on your trip to Slovenia. If underground is not your favourite place, you can choose to spend the day at the Lipica Stud Farm, the home of the famous Lipizzaner horses and stop in the village of Hrastovlje to see the world-famous dance-macabre frescoes. And then it’s off to the Slovenian Coast.
The so-called Slovenian Riviera is lined with impressive towns like Piran, Koper and Portorož. It is a popular summer destination with a Mediterranean vibe and the easy-going atmosphere. A perfect place to relax or saddle a bicycle and explore the hilly surroundings full of vineyards and olive groves, enjoy some gourmet treats or the incredible history of salt making.
Spending an extra day on the Adriatic coast is always a great idea. You might have missed out on something the day before or you can take an extra day off to spend at the beach!
Make the most of your last day and squeeze in a cave visit. The glorious Postojna Cave, or one of its lesser-known counterparts, is waiting to be explored. On your way back to Ljubljana, you will also pass the popular Predjama Castle, a unique cave-castle wrapped in mysterious legends, a perfect stop to squeeze in before heading back to return the car.
Why not spend a few more days in Slovenia? Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
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