Slovenia, a little corner of Central Europe, is a treasure waiting to be discovered, a small territory that boasts imposing mountains, crystal-clear lakes, enchanting historic cities and a unique cultural richness, thanks to its Slavic, Austro-Hungarian, Italian and Balkan influences. With scarcely two million inhabitants this country, bordered by the Julian Alps and stretching to the Adriatic, offers a diversity of scenery and experiences that leaves every visitor breathless with admiration. From the elegant city of Ljubljana, Europe’s greenest capital, to the peaks of the Triglav National Park, via the mysterious subterranean realm of the Postojna Caves, Slovenia is a destination that almost never fails to impress. Read on, and join a tour of the essential attractions of this fairytale land.
Ljubljana: Europe’s greenest capital city
Ljubljana, with its laid-back, cosmopolitan ambience, is the cultural, political and financial capital of Slovenia. Its cobbled streets, lined with Baroque and Modernist buildings, are reflected in the waters of the river Ljubljanica as it winds through its historic centre.
Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city, is one of the star attractions. Its towers command panoramic views of the Alps and of the city’s historic quarter. At its feet, the Triple Bridge, designed by the renowned architect Jože Plečnik, connects the city’s bustling squares and markets with a network of streets that are home to cafes, art galleries and designer shops. Don’t forget to visit the Central Market, where you can try local products such as cheeses, cold meats and honey.
In addition to its architecture, Ljubljana is also noteworthy for its commitment to the environment. Its pedestrianised zones, parks such as the Tivoli, and an efficient, sustainable public transport system earned the city the title of Green Capital of Europe in 2016.
Other cities worth visiting: a tour of provincial Slovenia, from the Adriatic to the valleys
Piran: the pearl of the Adriatic
Piran, on the Istrian Peninsula, is a small labyrinth of narrow streets and red-roofed houses that seems to extend into the sea. Tartini Square, dominated by the statue of the violinist Giuseppe Tartini, is the meeting point for exploring this Adriatic port with a Venetian vibe. Don’t miss the seafront promenade at sunset, nor the Church of St George, from which you can enjoy the finest views of the coast.
Ptuj: Roman remains in the oldest part of Slovenia
Every corner of Ptuj, considered to be Slovenia’s oldest city, is steeped in history. Founded in the Roman age as ‘Poetovio’, it still retains vestiges of its imperial past, such as the Regional Museum, where mosaics and objects dating from Roman times are displayed. The city’s castle, perched on a hilltop, affords panoramic views and houses unique exhibitions, featuring everything from historic musical instruments to traditional costumes from the Kurentovanje carnival, one of the country’s most emblematic festivals. Strolling around Ptuj’s historic quarter, with its medieval houses, narrow cobbled streets and its bustling central square is like stepping back into history.
Maribor: the wine-producing city on the banks of the river Drava
Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city, is a destination not to be missed by lovers both of wine and of nature. In the Lent district, on the banks of the river Drava, lies the world’s oldest vineyard, known as Stara Trta, which has been producing grapes for over 400 years. This is the perfect spot for tasting local wines in one of the taverns or wineries, such as Vinag or Dveri-Pax, famous for native grape varieties such as rebula or modri pinot. Don’t forget to visit Castle Square, with its Gothic St. John the Baptist’s church and historic Maribor Castle, which houses a museum. In winter, the nearby Pohorje hills are transformed into a paradise for skiing enthusiasts.
Celje: medieval heritage and thermal waters
Celje, known as the city of the counts, is notable for its imposing medieval castle, one of Slovenia’s largest. Its towers and walls command spectacular vistas of the Savinja river valley. Past and present merge in the city’s historic quarter, with its streets full of modern cafes, local shops and historic monuments such as the Count’s Palace and the Church of St Daniel. Another outstanding attraction is the thermal waters, with up to six spa centres for a relaxing soak. And don’t miss Celje Regional Museum, which hosts exhibitions on the city’s Roman and medieval periods. In addition, the city offers a lively calendar of cultural events and craft markets.
Idrija: the home of mercury and craft lace
Idrija, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, combines its rich industrial history with a unique tradition of handcrafted lace. Its mercury mine, one of the oldest in the world, offers guided tours that take visitors down into its tunnels and give an insight into the hardships of mining work. Gewerkenegg Castle, which is now a museum, relates the city’s history, and displays the famous Idrija lace, a delicate handcrafted artwork that is famous worldwide. Stroll around its quiet streets and visit local workshops to admire or buy handmade lace, a tradition dating back hundreds of years that still survives today.
Lake Bled: a picture-postcard emblem of Slovenia
Lake Bled is the jewel of Slovenia, surrounded by mountains and forests that frame a fairytale scene. The lake’s central island, home to the Church of the Assumption, can be accessed in traditional wooden boats known as pletna. When you arrive there, don’t forget to ring the wishing bell. Bled Castle, perched on a clifftop, offers the finest views of the lake and the island. You can also walk along the path that circles the lake — perfect for a quiet stroll. At the end, don’t forget to try the kremna rezina, the famous cake which is an emblem of the local gastronomy and which you can buy in the cake shops near the lake.
Lake Jasna: the serenity of the Julian Alps
Lake Jasna, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the snowy peaks of the Julian Alps, is a peaceful spot near Kranjska Gora. This artificial lake in two sections is famous for its bronze statue of a deer, a symbol of welcome for visitors. The paths around the lake are perfect for relaxed strolling, while the benches and viewing points offer idyllic views while you relax or have a picnic. In summer, the water is ideal for a cooling dip, while in winter the snowy landscape makes this a magical spot for hiking or skiing.
Postojna Cave: Europe’s most visited karst cave
Postojna Cave is a fascinating subterranean kingdom, with over 24 kilometres of tunnels and galleries full of stalactites and stalagmites. The adventure begins with an electric train ride, introduced during the nineteenth century, that crosses spectacular scenery before arriving at the Great Hall, a natural cathedral with impressive formations such as the famous ‘Brilliant’.
One of the cave’s most interesting inhabitants is the Proteus anguinus, a unique creature nicknamed the ‘human fish’ that can be seen in the vivarium inside the cave. At Christmas, the cave is transformed into a magical, living nativity scene.
Predjama Castle: Erazem, the legendary knight
Predjama Castle is a medieval wonder perched on a 123-metre-tall cliff, a unique symbiosis between architecture and nature. This fortress, built into the mouth of a cave, tells the story of Erazem of Predjama, a rebel knight who withstood a prolonged siege thanks to an intricate network of secret tunnels now open to the public.
The castle has historic rooms, weapons and a museum that tells the story of its fascinating past. In summer, the medieval tournament held around the castle transports visitors back to the age of chivalry.
Kranj and Škofja Loka: picturesque towns with history and traditions
Kranj, known as the birthplace of France Prešeren, Slovenia’s national poet, stands on the banks of the river Kokra which flows through the city’s historic quarter, offering spectacular views. The historic quarter has charming cafés, little galleries and the Prešeren House, which is dedicated to the renowned writer.
Close by, Škofja Loka is a medieval jewel with cobbled streets and a castle that houses a historic and ethnographic museum. This is one of the country’s best-preserved historic neighbourhoods. Don’t miss the Capuchin Bridge, or the views from the surrounding hills, a spectacular sight when clothed in the warm colours of autumn.
National Park of Triglav: Slovenia’s natural paradise
Triglav National Park, with its imposing, 2864-metre peak of the same name, is an alpine gem that attracts day trippers and nature lovers alike. Its trails include wonders such as the Savica waterfall, which flows down through forests, and the path leading to the glacial lakes of the Seven Lakes, a truly idyllic spot.
In spring, the meadows are filled with alpine flowers, while in winter, the snow makes for a stunningly beautiful scene. For more adventurous visitors, climbing Mount Triglav is an unforgettable challenge, and a profoundly symbolic experience for Slovenians.
The Soča Valley: adventure sports and memories of World War I
The Soča Valley, which is traversed by a vivid emerald-green river, is a not-to-be-missed destination for lovers of adventure. Here you can go rafting, kayaking, or simply walking along paths that twist and turn close to the water.
The hanging bridge near Tolmin and the Tolmin gorges are stand-out attractions in this unique landscape. Moreover, the valley has a profound historic connection: during the First World War, it was the scene of intense battles on the Soča Front. Today, these are recalled in Kobarid Museum and on themed trails such as the Walk of Peace.
