Discover the Wonders of Slovenia with GoTravelDaily

You’d be hard-pressed to find a country that packs so much to see and do in such a compact area.

Slovenia sits amid both the Alps and the Adriatic, influenced by neighboring Italy, Austria, and the Western Balkans. Moreover, because of its diminutive size, a visit here can easily cover all of its regions.

Though you could easily lose yourself in any quadrant, those looking to gather country-wide experiences are in for a multi-layered treat. World-class outdoor activities can be combined with city-based excitement, while wine tours are easily paired with history-themed journeys. Here is a smattering of the best things to do and experience in Slovenia.

1. Hike in the Alps on the Juliana Trail

Slovenians are mountaineers at heart, and the Julian Alps in the northwest are crisscrossed by miles of breathtaking hiking and trekking trails. For less experienced adventurers, a hike in the Alps may feel extreme, but it doesn’t have to be. The Juliana Trail, a 270km (168 miles) loop that follows the contours of Triglav National Park, is an excellent, accessible introduction. The majority of the trail’s 16 stages are relatively flat and categorized as easy or moderate, with highest elevations reaching around 1325 meters (4347ft).

Detour: Any trip to Triglav National Park wouldn’t be complete without a side trip to two of the country’s top attractions – the scenic, Alpine lakes of Bled and Bohinj.

2. Visit Ljubljana’s Central Market for Gourmet Picnic Provisions

More than just a place to stock up on fresh ingredients, the outdoor and covered areas of Ljubljana Central Market form the lifeblood of the city. Just off the main square, vendors offer a wide array of fresh meats, fish, vegetables, fruits, cheeses, nuts, honey, and liqueurs. There are plenty of tables available to enjoy the spoils on-site or better yet, prepare for an impromptu picnic along the river or in the capital’s sprawling Tivoli Park.

Planning: Return to the market on Friday afternoons between March and November for Open Kitchen (Odprta Kuhna), where dozens of restaurants set up stands for a weekly food fest with specially prepared dishes.

3. Admire the Urban Design of Jože Plečnik

Whether they know it or not, one of the reasons people fall in love with Ljubljana is thanks to the architectural prowess of Jože Plečnik. His genius transformed the city’s Triple Bridge from an ordinary structure into today’s mesmerizing labyrinth of white baubles and balustrades. Moreover, Plečnik also graced the Central Market with its distinctly classical columns and arches. The Plečnik House, where the architect lived and worked for nearly four decades, is a great place to begin exploring his work, much of which is recognized for its cultural heritage.

Planning: Architecture enthusiasts may want to take a guided cycling tour of the city through the eyes and talents of Ljubljana’s favorite son.

4. Experience Castle Country

The region along the Sava and Krka Rivers in southeastern Slovenia is often overlooked due to the sheer number of top sights packed into the country’s western half. The Lower Sava Valley Region (Posavje in Slovenian) is medieval castle country, showcasing numerous imposing structures across forested hilltops.

Notable stretches along the Sava River link historic structures from Sevnica to Mokrice Castle near the Croatian border. Combine a castle tour with a chocolate tasting at the elegant Rajhenburg Castle near Krško or visit the well-preserved, 13th-century Brežice Castle, where the Posavje Museum explains the area’s heritage from pre-historic times to the modern era.

Detour: North of Brežice, the picturesque Bizeljsko-Sremič Wine District is lined with wineries inviting a stop whenever you see a cellar that catches your fancy.

5. Go Spelunking in the Karst Region

Slovenia is just as breathtaking below ground as it is above. The southwestern Karst Region is filled with spectacular limestone caves that don’t require special equipment to explore. Postojna and Škocjan Caves are at the top of the list.

At Postojna Cave, you can take a four-kilometer train tour deep into its nearly 24 kilometers of tunnels, including interesting sightings of translucent salamanders, also known as “human fish.” The UNESCO-listed, 6km-long Škocjan Caves offer guided tours through the Silent Cave and into the Murmuring Cave, where adventurers can cross a bridge nearly 50 meters (164ft) above the Reka River below.

6. Sample the World’s Oldest Wine

To sample historic vintage wine, head to the Old Vine House in Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city in the northeast. The vine growing up the house’s façade is over four centuries old and holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest noble vine still bearing fruit. Enjoy tasting this ancient red variety and many others offered at the shop.

7. Ride a Scenic Railway through the Alps

The Bohinj Railway is among Europe’s most scenic train lines and a must for rail enthusiasts. The line connects northern reaches of the Austro-Hungarian Empire to the Adriatic, dating back to the early 20th century. Hop on the train in Bohinjska Bistrica and traverse the stunning route to Nova Gorica on the Italian border. During your journey, pass through mountains via the 6.3km (3.9-mile) Bohinj Tunnel and over the historic Solkan Bridge, recognized as the longest stone-arch rail overpass in the world.

8. Gallop with History in Lipica

The Lipica Stud Farm is home to around 300 elegant Lipizzaner horses, bred in Slovenia’s Karst Region for over 400 years. Visitors can stroll the grounds, capturing photos of the friendly horses, take guided tours of the farm’s museums and stables, and enjoy a carriage ride or performance at the Lipica Riding School.

Planning: It’s advisable to choose activities and book tickets in advance, while avoiding Mondays, as performances may be limited.

9. Climb Mt. Triglav for a Slovenian Right of Passage

Scaling Mt. Triglav, the tallest mountain in Slovenia at 2864 meters (9396ft), is a rite of passage. Legend has it that to be a true Slovene, one must summit the mountain at least once in their lifetime. Nestled among the Julian Alps in Triglav National Park, this challenge is inviting yet demanding.

While not requiring expert climbing skills, serious preparation is essential. Seek local guidance for the best trails and bring necessary gear like a helmet and harness for safer routes. Plan for two days of relaxation at your starting point before attempting the all-day scramble.

10. Enjoy a Splash in the Adriatic Sea

Though Slovenia has a coastline of just under 50km (31 miles), the Adriatic shore is often left for last as a reward after exploring the mountains, rivers, and caves. Koper serves as the largest city on Slovenia’s coast, offering visitors rich historical experiences alongside beautiful sea views. For a quieter experience, Izola is the perfect place to unwind, renowned for its seafood dining options.

Further along the coast lies the charming town of Piran, famous for its Venetian-style architecture and breathtaking sunsets.

Detour: Strunjan Landscape Park, just 4km (2.5 miles) east of Piran, offers pristine natural reserves and secluded beaches.

11. Wine Tasting and Heritage in Goriška Brda

While Slovenia may not yet be widely known for its wines, the excellent quality of both white and red varieties awaits discovery. The Goriška Brda region, at the foot of the Julian Alps, resembles Tuscany with its rolling hills lush with grapevines and sun-kissed orchards.

During your visit, explore wonderful vineyards, such as Marjan Simčič and Movia in Ceglo. The Klet Brda Winery, a cooperative of 400 families in Dobrovo, offers tours and tastings of a variety of wines.

Planning: It’s best to call ahead to arrange tastings at local wine producers; spontaneous visits may not align with Slovenian hospitality traditions.

12. Tour Kamnik’s Microbreweries

While many regions in Slovenia focus on wine, Kamnik has become known for its exceptional microbreweries. The town now boasts more microbreweries per capita than anywhere else in the world.

The Beer Way to Freedom Tour is a lively guided circuit through some of Kamnik’s best microbrews, offering insights into the local beer culture.

Detour: Consider pairing your trip with a visit to nearby Velika Planina, an expansive plateau hosting one of Europe’s largest herdsman settlements. Sample local cheeses like trnič alongside delicious žganci (buckwheat porridge).

This content has been updated for an enriched understanding of Slovenia’s treasures courtesy of GoTravelDaily.