Slovenia

Travel Guide
Lake Bled showing a lake or waterhole, mist or fog and mountains
Relax amid the natural beauty of forests, lakes, caves and a magical island in this central European country that was once part of Yugoslavia.

The small country of Slovenia offers amazing outdoor adventures, from the shoreline along the Gulf of Trieste to the snow-capped Alps. Enjoy forested countryside and quaint cities as you explore outdoor beauty and learn about the nation’s fascinating history.

Settled as early as the 6th century B.C., the area was once part of the Holy Roman Empire, suffered under communist rule after World War II, became an independent democracy in 1991 and joined the European Union in 2004. Learn about these periods as you travel across the flourishing country.

The capital city, Ljubljana, has over a dozen museums, including the National Museum of Slovenia and the Slovene Ethnographic Museum. Stroll through car-free Ljubljana Old Town and visit Preseren Square, bordered by the pretty pink Franciscan Church and the Ljubljana River with its unique Triple Bridge. Tour the 15th-century Ljubljana Castle and see other old mansions and castles.

Travel north to Bled near the Austrian border. The highlight of this town is the picturesque glacial Lake Bled surrounded by snow-covered mountains. Climb to Bled Castle and look at the pretty Bled Island. Take a ferry to visit the island’s wishing bell and sample the delicious Slovenian potica cake.

Nearby, hike along the Radovna river to the Šum waterfall at the Vintgar Gorge. From here, the Triglav National Park a short distance west offers outdoor exercise with fresh Alpine air and great views. Don’t miss beautiful Lake Bohinj.

The medieval town of Koper has Slovenia’s short Adriatic coastline. Wander along narrow streets, enjoy relaxing spa treatments, see cruise boats arriving and visit the beach resort of Ankaran.

A bit northeast, ride the tourist train through the Postojna Caves to see striking limestone formations. Nearby, gaze up at the Predjama Castle, built into the cliffs more than 700 years ago.

About 60 percent of Slovenia is covered by forest, helping to provide natural beauty and clean air. Enjoy hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, golf and much more in this scenic country.

Popular cities in Slovenia

Triple Bridge featuring boating, a river or creek and a bridge
Ljubljana
Known for Historical, Castle and Cafes
Explore a maze of historic pedestrianized city streets and visit a looming fortress, a 13th-century monastery and a bridge that links old and new.

Reasons to visit

  • Ljubljana Castle
  • Ljubljana Central Market
  • Ljubljana Town Hall
Piran featuring a square or plaza and night scenes as well as a large group of people
Piran
Known for Sea, Swimming and Marinas
Marvel at the preserved architecture and narrow medieval streets of this historic village, where Venetian-style façades give the air of an Italian coastal town.

Reasons to visit

  • Portoroz Beach
  • Piran Harbour
  • Bell Tower
Triglav National Park which includes a lake or waterhole, mist or fog and mountains
Kranjska Gora
Known for Skiing, Mountains and Biking
Experience trendy Kranjska Gora: its skiing, mountain views, hiking, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Lake Jasna
  • Pericnik Waterfall
  • Nordijski center Planica
Lake Bohinj which includes a lake or waterhole and kayaking or canoeing
Bohinj
Known for Lakes, Small town and Scenery
Escape to quaint Bohinj! Enjoy its lake views, skiing, and museums.

Reasons to visit

  • Lake Bohinj
  • Triglav National Park
  • Savica Waterfall
Koper
Koper
Known for Monuments, Small town and Cathedrals
Quaint Koper awaits: its monuments, cathedral, oceanfront, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary
Maribor
Maribor
Known for Historical, Monuments and Museums
Maribor awaits: its monuments, museums, castle, and more!

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