slovenia travel schedule

7-Day Slovenia Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on January 23, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning a Slovenia itinerary is so much more than booking in a couple of nights in Ljubljana and taking a day trip to Lake Bled. This small nation sandwiched between Croatia and Italy has so much to offer visitors beyond the typical tourist sites that spending a week or more in this beautiful country is well worth it.

If you’re interested in heading to beautiful Slovenia, you’ve come to the right place. These three 7-day itineraries are sure to help you plan the perfect trip to this gorgeous country no matter what kind of trip you’re after. Whether you’re looking to spend time exploring cities, hiking in the Julian Alps or relaxing on the Adriatic, Slovenia has something for everyone.

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How Many Days in Slovenia?

If all you know of Slovenia before planning your itinerary is Ljubljana and Lake Bled, you can be forgiven for thinking you may not need long in this country to really do it justice. However, there is far more to Slovenia than simply the capital and its most photographed tourist spot and you’re going to need a bit of time to be able to do the nation justice.

So how many days should you pend in SLovenia? I would say to set aside as many as possible! Despite its small size, there is quite a lot to do and see in Slovenia and you will likely need at least a couple of weeks to really cover the majority of it. When that isn’t an option, I recommend setting aside at least 7 days in Slovenia.

You definitely won’t be able to visit everywhere of interest in just one week (that is if you actually want to spend time in places), but 7 days are definitely enough to cover a fair bit of ground and really get a taste for this small but diverse country.

If you do have more time, planning to spend 10 days in Slovenia can also be a great option. If you have this amount of time, you can do a hybrid of some of the itineraries outlined below and create a trip that will be truly unforgettable.

When to Visit Slovenia?

What time of year should you visit Slovenia? That’s another pressing question those planning a trip to this beautiful country ask themselves. And while there is no bad time to plan a trip to Slovenia, it is worth noting that the nation does have a continental climate and very much experiences all four seasons.

The most popular time to visit Slovenia is in the summer, where temperatures are pleasantly warm and tourist crowds are at their peak. Expect prices for things like accommodation to be very high during this season, as well, which will add to your overall Slovenia trip cost .

Winter, conversely, is cold in Slovenia and — depending on where you are — often snowy. Some tourist attractions may be closed for the season and some roads, such as the Vršič Pass, will be closed as well. There are a number of ski resorts in Slovenia, however, which can make it a great time to visit if you intend to hit the slopes.

The shoulder seasons, like so many places in Europe, can be the ideal time to visit Slovenia. Temperatures can be mild and pleasant, tourist crowds are fewer than in the summer and prices can be discounted, as well. This is likely when tourist attractions that close for the winter will begin to open up, as well.

Getting Around Slovenia

If you’re only planning on visiting major cities or attractions, you can rely simply on public transit while in Slovenia.

There is a very robust bus network ( browse schedules here ) and a decent train network ( browse schedules here ) in the country that can take you where you need to go. In fact, the Classic Slovenia route and the Off the Beaten Path route outlined below can be done solely relying on public transit.

Sometimes, however, you may want a bit more flexibility or want to spend some time in more far-flung places. This is where renting a car in Slovenia can be an excellent option.

I would recommend this choice especially if you’re planning on spending any time in the Julian Alps region as it can be very tricky to rely on public transport to get around here.

Driving in Slovenia is easy and straightforward and the road quality is excellent. Planning a Slovenia road trip itinerary really does give you the ultimate flexibility and it can be very much worth it, as well.

If you want to rent a car in Slovenia, we recommend browsing Rentalcars.com to find deals from many rental car companies.

Classic Slovenia Itinerary

This week in Slovenia route begins in the capital of Ljubljana and takes you to a number of the classic highlights of the country.

Day 1: Ljubljana

Begin this route in the charming capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana. This is a very small city and you can see most of the highlights within a short amount of time, so plan to spend 2 days in Ljubljana enjoying the sites and atmosphere of the city.

Take the time to visit the central market, stroll along the Ljubljanica river, take the cable car (or hike up) to the Ljubljana Castle and simply relish in the completely pedestrianised Old Town.

Ljubljana is very laid-back and has the feel of a small town even though it is the capital city and it is very much worth spending some time in.

Where to Stay in Ljubljana

Bloom Hotel – This comfortable hotel is good for mid-range visitors to the Slovenian capital. There are several comfortable rooms, breakfast each morning, and a great location in the Old Town.

City Hotel Ljubljana – A lovely luxury place to stay while in Ljubljana, this Old Town hotel is perfect for higher-budget travellers. There are plenty of opulent rooms along with lots of other fantastic amenities to enjoy.

Hostel Celica – This hostel is a great budget option for backpackers, solo travellers or those looking for a social atmosphere. There are several room types on offer, good common areas and a great location within easy reach of Ljubljana’s highlights.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Ljubljana hotels!

Day 2: Ljubljana

On your second day in Ljubljana, take the time to visit some of the sites that you haven’t had a chance to take in just yet.

Spend your morning wandering through the lush greenery of Tivoli Park, take in the pieces in the cool Modern Art Museum and then wander over to the alternative area of Metelkova City.

End your day at the Ljubljana skyscraper, taking in some of the best views of the city, before strolling once more along the Ljubljanica river and enjoying the laid-back nature of this compact capital.

Day 3: Lake Bled

From Ljubljana, it is only about 1.5 hours to Lake Bled, which you can reach either by car (which is the easiest) or public transit.

Lake Bled is one of the most popular places to visit in Slovenia and for good reason — it’s absolutely beautiful. While it is possible to visit as a day trip from Ljubljana, it’s worth spending at least one full day in Bled so you can truly experience all this area has to offer.

Spend your morning visiting the beautiful Vintgar Gorge – it’s best to get there early as this place can get quite packed with tourist crowds the later in the day you end up here.

Once at the lake, you can choose to circumnavigate, get out on the water to visit the iconic island church, hike up to some incredible viewpoints and even explore the Bled Castle. If you’re visiting in the summer, you can even go for a swim in the lake and get some respite from the warm day.

Where to Stay in Bled

Jazz Bled B&B – This B&B is an excellent mid-range choice located very close to Lake Bled. They have several comfortable rooms, self-catering facilities for guests to use and a great breakfast each morning.

Hotel Triglav – A wonderful luxury choice on the banks of Lake Bled, this is a lovely hotel to stay. They have a range of beautiful rooms to choose from along with an on-site bar and restaurant.

Private Rental – Properties like this cosy apartment in the centre of Bled are another great option for those after a self-catering option while visiting Lake Bled.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bled hotels!

Day 4: Lake Bohinj

On your second day in the area, you can either choose to spend your time going on a few more hikes around Lake Bled itself (there are plenty to choose from!) or even head over to Slovenia’s largest lake — Lake Bohinj.

There are lots of great things to in around Lake Bohinj that it’s very worth spending a day here exploring. Start your day at the Savica Waterfall before heading over to the lovely Mostnica Gorge. Then, head to the lake itself and enjoy the views or, if it interests you, hire a canoe or kayak and get out on the water!

Spend the night near Lake Bled again.

Day 5: Caves & Castles

After spending two days at Lakes Bled and Bohinj, take your time moving south to visit some of Slovenia’s other famous attractions – namely one of its Karst caves and the Predjama Castle.

The Postojna and Škocjan Caves are a network of incredible subterranean caves that are open to visitors and are an unforgettable experience in Slovenia. The Postojna Caves are the more popular to visit and are also the most family-friendly, with an electric train that will take you through the network.

If you’re willing to get a bit more active and view a more extensive cave network, then consider visiting the Škocjan Caves. This cave network is on the UNESCO World Heritage list, however, you do need to have a bit of a higher level of fitness to enjoy these caves.

Nearby, you cannot miss the beautiful Predjama Castle. This 13th Century castle is built into a cliff bluff and it is a unique place in Slovenia to visit. Inside, you can explore the living quarters, the dungeons and learn about the history of the building itself and this region of Slovenia.

You can plan to leave Bled first thing in the morning before arriving at the caves, move onto the castle and finish with spending the night at our next stop.

If you choose to do this itinerary without your own car, then it is possible to do this day trip while you’re staying in Ljubljana on a guided tour such as this small-group tour that visits Predjama Castle & Postojna Cave or this half-day tour to the Škocjan Caves.

Day 6: Piran

The final stop is the lovely coastal town of Piran. This is the most beautiful town on Slovenia’s small coast and it is truly a different world to the rest of the country. There are lots of things to do in Piran , however, its small size means that you don’t need a lot of time here to really experience it all.

Take the time to wander through its winding streets and along the seaside promenade. Visit the city walls for excellent views of the Adriatic and neighbouring Italy and Croatia. If the weather is fine, you can also enjoy a lovely swim at one of the many swimming spots along Piran’s coastline.

Piran also has excellent restaurants and you can enjoy both fresh seafood at great prices or traditional Istrian cuisine like freshly made pasta and lots of dishes with truffles. There is also great olive oil produced in this part of Slovenia that you’re able to sample if you’re interested.

Where to Stay in Piran

Hotel Piran – Located right on the water in Piran, this is such a wonderful hotel for those after a plush stay on the Adriatic. There are several comfortable rooms to choose from and an on-site restaurant/bar to enjoy, as well.

Memento B&B – This quaint B&B in the centre of Piran is a great cosy and intimate base in this lovely Slovenian town. There are several (air-conditioned!) rooms to choose from and a great breakfast available daily.

Apartment Park Piran – This apartment in the centre of Piran is great for those after a self-catering stay. A two-bedroom flat, it is fully equipped for your stay and there is also a lovely outdoor terrace (with a BBQ) to lounge on!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Piran hotels!

Day 7: Piran

Spend your final day simply chilling out on the Adriatic Sea and enjoying the laid-back nature of Piran. If it interests you, you could opt to go on a day trip to the nearby coastal town of Izola, check out some sea salt pans or even head over to Trieste, Italy which is located only about an hour away.

If you’re heading back to Ljubljana, it’s only located about 1.5 hours from Piran, so it is easy to get back to the capital either by public transit or by your own vehicle.

Julian Alps Itinerary

If you want to experience the pristine Alpine nature of Slovenia, then this is the perfect route for you. Still beginning in the capital, this is the one route in this article that I wouldn’t recommend doing entirely by public transport — once in the Triglav National Park area (so-called for the eponymous mountain that is Slovenia’s highest peak), having your own vehicle is going to be necessary.

Days 1-2: Ljubljana

No week in Slovenia would be complete without visiting the capital and even if you are excited about the nature of this country, you cannot miss lovely Ljubljana. The small size of the city means that you only need to spend two days here in order to really get a food feel for the city before moving on.

Day 3: Lake Bled & Vintgar Gorge

Lake Bled is infinitely popular for a reason – it’s incredibly charming and very worth planning to spend a day in.

As mentioned earlier, plan to visit the Vintgar Gorge as early as possible before venturing to the lake later in the day. If you feel like getting a bit more active, there are tons of hikes around Lake Bled that are absolutely wonderful.

After a day exploring the beautiful Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge and elsewhere, take the time to venture a bit further into Triglav National Park and visit Slovenia’s largest lake – Lake Bohinj.

There are countless things to do in Bohinj that range beyond the lake itself and this place can be an excellent alternative to visiting Lake Bled if you’re looking for a quieter experience.

Nearby to Bohinj is the stunning Savica Waterfall. On the other side of the lake, you will find the gorgeous Mostnica Gorge, which is an excellent alternative to the ever-popular Vintgar Gorge. You can choose to spend the night near Bohinj or simply stay in Bled or elsewhere in Triglav National Park.

Including both of Slovenia’s iconic lakes in this itinerary means that you don’t have to make the tough decision between visiting Bled or Bohinj .

Day 5: Vršič Pass

One of the main reasons I recommend renting a car for this particular Slovenia route is so you can experience the incredible Vršič Pass drive . This route through the highest part of Slovenia’s Julian Alps is absolutely stunning, with epic views presenting themselves around each hairpin turn.

The drive is fantastic to experience on its own, however, there are also countless stops to enjoy and hikes to experience if you want to make it more of an adventure. Though the drive itself only takes about one to two hours, there are many trails and lookout points on the pass so you can easily spend the entire day enjoying some of the incredible scenery here.

Keep in mind that the pass is closed in the snowy winter months, but opens up as soon as there is no snow covering the road.

There is no need to find a place to stay right near the road, however, it can be an advantage if you want to get an early start and beat the crowds that do descend on this incredible mountain pass. It can also be a good idea to find a place to stay around here when it comes to exploring the Soca Valley at the next stop.

Where to Stay Near the Vršič Pass

Hotel Vandot – This Alpine-style hotel is an excellent place to stay in this area of Slovenia and is perfect for driving the Vršič Pass. Situated in the centre of Kranjska Gora, there are several comfortable rooms and breakfast is available in the mornings.

Apartmaji štAla – These apartments in Kranjska Gora are perfect for those after a self-catering choice. They have a few different flats to choose from and there is also a breafakst served each morning for guests.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Kranjska Gora accommodation!

Day 6: Soča Valley

The Vršič Pass drive ends on one side in the incredible Soča Valley where you can explore some more of the pristine nature that Slovenia has to offer.

There are an infinite number of hikes here, more river gorges to visit and plenty of mountain scenery to enjoy. The Soča Valley really is an outdoor lover’s paradise and it’s very worth spending a day here.

If you’re interested in getting an adrenaline rush, you can go river rafting or even kayaking on the Soča River. There are also opportunities for things like zip lining here or canyoning. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy the power of your own two feet and go on plenty of hikes.

Day 7: Ljubljana

End your Slovenia road trip back in Ljubljana, where you can unwind from your active itinerary by relaxing in a cafe along the Ljubljanica River or by strolling in tranquil Tivoli Park.

Off the Beaten Path Itinerary

If you would like to experience some lesser-visited towns and cities in Slovenia, then this is the itinerary for you. This route is ideal for those who are visiting Slovenia from neighbouring Austria or Croatia , however, it can be a standalone trip as well. This is also a trip that can be done entirely by public transport if you wish.

Day 1: Maribor

Begin in the country’s second-largest city – Maribor. For some reason, Maribor doesn’t get all that much international attention and that really is a shame and the city is incredibly charming has a lot to offer visitors.

There are lots of things to do in Maribor that can easily occupy a couple of days. For instance, you can take the time to wander through the pedestrianised city centre. Make sure to wind your way to the Old Vine House where you can see the world’s oldest grapevine that is still producing wine to this day!

Where to Stay in Maribor

Hotel Maribor – A comfortable hotel perfect for those looking for a bit of luxury, there are several lovely rooms to choose from. It is also centrally located and breakfast is available each morning.

Anna House – This hotel is great for budget to mid-range visitors looking for a basic yet clean and comfortable place to stay while in Maribor. It’s well-located for exploring all the city has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Maribor hotels!

Day 2: Maribor

Your second day in Maribor can be spent getting to know the city better, sampling more wine and simply taking in this lovely town.

If you want to sample more local wine, head to the Vinag Wine Cellar where you can also tour the subterranean cellars beneath the city.

There is also the lovely Pyramid Hill which is decked with grapevines and provides excellent views over the city. All in all, Maribor is an excellent place to experience Slovenian culture without the tourist crowds of Ljubljana and it is sure to charm you.

Day 3: Ptuj

Another place that doesn’t make it onto enough Slovenia itineraries is the absolutely charming city of Ptuj. Located between Maribor and the capital of Ljubljana, this charming settlement is known to be “Slovenia’s oldest town.”

Located on the banks of the Drava River, there are lots of things to do in Ptuj that will certainly keep you occupied for a day. Take the time to wander up to the beautiful medieval castle and enjoy the views from the top. Take in the gorgeous architecture of the city and enjoy the cityscape from the river.

Ptuj is absolutely beautiful and incredibly laid back and it is really worth visiting if only to get a real Slovenian “hidden gem” almost entirely to yourself. This town isn’t on many visitors’ wish lists, but it really should be!

You can either visit Ptuj as a day trip from Maribor or choose to spend the night here.

Where to Stay in Ptuj

Bed & Breakfast Šilak – Situated in a beautiful historic building right on the Drava River, this is a great B&B to stay in while visiting Ptuj. There are several comfortable rooms and a great daily breakfast.

Apartma Domenika – This spacious one-bedroom apartment is perfect for those after their own space in Ptuj. Located in the centre of town on a quiet street, it’s fully stocked with all you may need.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Ptuj hotels!

Days 4-5: Ljubljana

After visiting some more off-the-beaten-path cities and towns in Slovenia, it’s time to head to the capital of Ljubljana.

Though it’s popular to visit, it doesn’t mean that it should be excluded from your intrepid route through Slovenia as visitors flock here for a reason. Spend two days enjoying the atmosphere of the city before moving on to the next destination.

There is more to Ljubljana that is worth exploring than simply the main sites in the Old Town. For instance, take the time to explore the lovely Tivoli Park or spend a few hours admiring the works in the Museum of Modern Art.

Even venturing a bit outside of the centre to the edgy Metelkova City will make you feel as if you’ve left Ljubljana altogether. 

Days 6-7: Piran & the Slovenian Riviera

End your week in Slovenia at the country’s small coastline. If you want to get off the beaten path, consider visiting the town of Izola or the port city of Koper rather than heading to popular Piran.

I recommend spending two days on the Riviera so you can have the time both to explore Piran or another city and to head out to some more offbeat areas here.

For instance, the Salt Pans closer to the Croatian border can be worth exploring. You can also visit some local wineries or olive oil producers. If you’ve based yourself in Piran, spend your second day in Izola which has fantastic restaurants and, arguably, better swimming areas.

You could even spend the day coming down to the Riviera at the Postojna or Škocjan Caves and the Predjama Castle. Then spend your final day enjoying the incredible (if small!) coastline.

With so much to see in such a small country, planning a Slovenia itinerary can be overwheling – especially if you only have one week to spend! However, if you’re able to prioritise what you’d like to see, these three routes are sure to give you an excellent feel for this beautiful nation.

Are you planning a trip to Slovenia? Have any questions about these routes? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect Lake Bled Day Trip from Ljubljana

Best Things to Do in Bohinj: A One-Day Itinerary

11 Things To Do In Piran, Slovenia: A One-Day Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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The Perfect Slovenia Itinerary For 5, 7 or 10 Days

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This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Looking for the best Slovenia itinerary? So was I, not so long ago. After my trip around Ljubljana, Bled, Lake Bohinj and Piran, I think I cracked the perfect route. In this guide, I’ll advise you how long to spend in each destination and what to do there, as well as other tips & tricks for making the most of your trip to this unbelievably beautiful country. Following the, ahem, events of 2020 and 2021, I was thrilled to visit Slovenia because it was my first new country in over 2 years. I’d run out of time when I was backpacking in Romania , Slovakia and Bulgaria in 2019 so it had been a long time coming.

SLOVENIA ESSENTIALS Accommodation : Booking.com / Hostelworld Tours & activities : GetYourGuide / Viator Getting there : flight / car / bus / train

How long to spend in Slovenia?

I spent 10 days in Slovenia and stayed overnight in four different places. However, you could see the big names (Ljubljana and Bled) in as little as 3 days if you’re pushed for time. Personally, I would recommend at least a 7 day Slovenia itinerary because you can get past the must-sees and check out a few other wonderful destinations.

Best time of year for a Slovenia itinerary

I would always recommend shoulder season to visit Slovenia. April to June and September to October offer pleasant weather, lower prices and reduced crowds compared to the busy summer months of July and August. During this season, small but popular destinations like Bled become totally overwhelmed and you’ll be lucky to find a spare bed! If you don’t mind the cold, you can even visit Slovenia in the winter . You’ll get bargains on accommodation and perhaps see the lakes frozen. Ljubljana also hosts Christmas markets .

Itinerary overviews

5 day Slovenia itinerary: 2 days Ljubljana, 2 days Bled, 1 day Bohinj 7 day Slovenia itinerary: 2 days Ljubljana, 2 days Bled, 1 day Triglav Nat Park, 2 days Bohinj 10 day Slovenia itinerary: 2 days Ljubljana, 2 days Bled, 2 days Bohinj, 1 day Triglav Nat Park, 3 days Istria.

Slovenia itinerary for up to 10 days

Now let’s get stuck into the details. I’ll share what to do in each place to help you plan a fun trip packed with sights, food and… well, more food!

Slovenia itinerary day 1 – Ljubljana

It’s likely your Slovenia itinerary will start in the capital. You can get there by flight (I recommend Skyscanner for finding the cheapest tickets), car, bus (I arrived on the Flixbus ) or train . Ljubljana is a small but lovely city with a historic Old Town, castle, river with many impressive bridges, and places to eat and drink outside. Ljubljana is a fitting capital for Slovenia. Electric kavaliers transport people around (for free!), the main statue in the central square is of a poet not a war hero, and there are large green spaces for picnics and woodland walks. The city is developed and systems are efficient but nature and culture are prioritised. It feels like a blueprint for how cities should be.

Ljubljana Castle

The 12th-century castle houses several interesting museums within its interior, alongside offering the best views of the city from the tower. You can take a steep but short hike there or catch the to Ljubljana Castle funicular.

Entry to the castle starts from €12 and tickets including the funicular start from €16. There are various packages on offer including a ‘time machine’ guided tour, an escape castle experience and wine tours.

Things to do in Ljubljana:

• Start the day with a free walking tour to learn about the city
• See the buildings and statues in Prešeren Square
• Feel cultured at the many museums and galleries including the Museum of Contemporary History and the National Gallery
• Drink famous orange wine and other local varieties with Wine Tasting Ljubljana
• Browse the Central Market and eat lunch at My Dumpling or Kodila Gourmet
• Stop for an afternoon drink on Petkovšek Embankment
• Take a leisurely walk in Tivoli Gardens, the largest green space in the city complete with tranquil ponds, flowers, woodland and interesting artwork
• Go for a sunset drink at the top of Nebotični skyscraper
• Wander quirky outdoor arts centre, Metelkova, a unique creative hub where alternative locals hang out to enjoy the graffiti and unique artwork.

Read next: 38 things to do in Ljubljana

Where to eat & drink in Ljubljana

Now for the important stuff! I ate so much in Ljubljana, once during my first trip when my friend Kerrie and I were catching up after being separated for the turbulent years 2020-21. We had terrible weather so spent most of the trip in cafes and bars. During my second trip solo, I ate and drank even more! I don’t mean to brag (okay, that’s a lie) but I offer the BEST food advice. Here were some of the highlights.

• Atmospheric Slovenian restaurant – Figovec
• Slovenian lunch cafe – Kodila Gourmet
• Famous dumpling cafe – My Dumpling
• Best cake cafe – Cacao
• Best cafe serving local desserts – Pri Vodnjaku 
• Social enterprise – Second Violin
• Best veggie restaurant – Gujžina
• Best brunch – Ek Bistro
• Best Asian takeaway – Niam Niam
• Best drunk food – Burek Olimpija
• International eats – Abi Falafel , El Patrón Tacos & Store , Riksa wok
• Top tea house – Cajnica gallus
• Speciality coffee – Črno Zrno .

Alternatively, if you’re an indecisive foodie and want someone to pick the best food spots for you, then this 3.5-hour Ljubljana Food & Wine tour is perfect for you. You’ll sample 4 wines alongside dishes that represent the best regional cuisines in Slovenia.

Read next: complete Ljubljana food guide including restaurants, bars, cafes & food activities

Where to stay in Ljubljana

• Hostel – I heard great things about Hotel Celia inside a refurbished prison! It’s had a funky refurb and hosts events and activities. (Note – I hear it can be a bit loud at night. If that’s an issue, try the Sax Pub Hostel – guests say it’s cosy, relaxed and quiet, despite sharing a building with a friendly pub).
• Budget hotel – for a clean, spacious hotel with indoor & outdoor seating, White House Bela Hiša has coffee machines in every room and fantastic reviews. Book from €75 .
• Splash out hotel – treat yourself at uHOTEL with its rooftop wellness centre, swimming pool, fitness centre and renowned buffet breakfasts. Book from €120 .
• Apartments – check out Stella Sky with equipped studios and swimming pools with city views and Castle View Apartments with hot tubs and private parking.
• Browse all Ljubljana hotels on Booking.com and hostels on Hostelworld .

1 or 2 days in Ljubljana?

If your itinerary for Slovenia is tight, it’s easy to see the highlights of Ljubljana in a day. I’d prioritise a free walking tour, lunch at Central Market, walking up to the Castle and visiting a museum or gallery. With a second day, you can see the city at your leisure, spending a full afternoon relaxing in Tivoli Gardens if you have good weather. You’ll also have time for alternative attractions like Metalkova arts centre and Trubarjeva Cesta street with its diverse cafes and restaurants. If you enjoy the Ljubljana nightlife and take a bar crawl , you’ll appreciate the extra day to relax.

So, if you like the sound of taking it slow, dedicate an extra day to Ljubljana!

Slovenia itinerary day 2 – Predjama Castle & caves

One of the best surprises of my Slovenia itinerary was visiting the vast Postojna Cave complex and finishing the day at Predjama Castle built into a karst cliff. I hadn’t researched these destinations much because I’d been told I couldn’t take a day trip to them both by public transport. As a result, I booked a GetYourGuide day tour and waited to find out about them when I got there. It’s nice to switch off and let someone else do the work sometimes! Both were impressive but Postojna Cave was my highlight.

Postojna Cave

This vast underground wonderland is 3 million years old with eerie sculptures and 100-year-old lizards that only eat once a decade! A ticket gets you a mini railway ride and a guided tour. It’s undeniably touristic so might not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Predjama Castle

Predjama is an 800-year-old castle lodged in a karst cliff complex. In high season, you can visit the cave complex under the castle. Here I heard the folklore tale that the Erazem of Predjama was killed on the toilet after being betrayed by one of his servants. Ouch! Browse cave and castle tours:

Budget tip – for a day trip, I’d suggest bringing a packed lunch and eating it in the castle grounds. There’s a decent restaurant onsite but, as is to be expected, prices are inflated.

Skocjan Caves

If you’re visiting Predjama and Postojna, there’s another set of caves just a 20-minute drive away in the town of Divača. UNESCO world heritage Škocjan Caves are more than 200 metres deep with 6km of passageways. Take a guided tour of the karstic complex (€18), follow the Reka River underground for 3-5 kilometres or take an above-ground 2km loop along the Škocjan Education Trail. From Ljubljana, you can drive, take a train to Divača or an Arriva bus .

Slovenia itinerary days 3-4 – Bled

A spot that I’m sure will be on everyone’s ideal Slovenia itinerary is world-famous Lake Bled. The town of Bled is where you’ll stay overnight but it’s not very exciting: it’s more of a launching point for exploring the wonderful lake. I visited in May and had perfect weather: not too hot but beautifully clear. The Julian Alps were still snow-capped. Just two days later at Lake Bohinj, the weather sucked so I’m happy the rain gods played ball for me here!

Things to do around Lake Bled

• Walk around the lake path (which takes a couple of hours depending how often you stop to snap photos and lust over the views) or hire an e-bike
• Explore from the water by taking a stand-up paddleboarding tour or by gliding across the lake in a transparent kayak .
• Hike up to Osojnica viewpoint on the opposite side of Lake Bled from the town. It’s a one-hour steep hike with lots of steps but the views are just phenomenal!
• For a real bucket list experience, go paragliding ! A few people in my hostel did this and loved it
• Visit Bled Castle dating back to 1004. Even if you don’t want to pay the €17 entry (my hostel were quite honest and told me it’s not worth it), it’s a nice hike to the summit
• Hire a paddleboat at a cost of around €16 an hour
• Board a pletna (taxi boat) to take you to the island
• On the island: climb 99 steps to the Assumption of Mary Church bell tower and ring the Wishing Bell, thought to make your desires come true.

Honest thoughts – the ticket to ring the Wishing Bell and climb the tower on the island was expensive at €10 and neither attraction was very impressive. The only thing I was wishing for my money back!

As a solo traveller, the only downside to visiting Lake Bled was wanting to hire a paddleboat but not having anyone to split the costs and rowing with. I hoped to meet people in the hostel but alas, no one’s sightseeing plans lined up with mine. Still, I can’t complain because Bled is paradise!

Bled cream cake

No Slovenia travel itinerary would be complete without eating Bled cream cake (Blejska Kremna). I had it twice in two days. It tasted better than it looked with a layer of sweet custard and a layer of cream sandwiched between flaky pastry dusted with icing sugar. More than 15 million portions have allegedly been served and I can see why! Try it at:

• Confectionery Zima – this is one of the OG places to eat cream cake with a history of more than 50 years.
• Grajska Plaza Restaurant – here I ate Bled cream cake with beautiful views of the lake. The cake itself was a little better at the first place but it was still very tasty and the views are unrivalled.

Where else to eat in Bled

• Mega Burger Bled – although it doesn’t look much from the outside, this takeaway place serves amazing burgers with loads of options including truffle burgers in black buns, fried chicken burgers, veggie burgers, wraps and healthy boxes. Grab a burger and eat it by the lake.
• Oštarija Peglez’n – I can’t rave about this place enough and, with over 2,000 reviews almost all positive, neither can anyone else it seems! It’s an atmospheric restaurant with a local feel and shaded courtyard area. Slovenian food like meat, seafood and pasta comes in enormous portions. I had a giant chicken fillet with ham, cream sauce, crispy potatoes and roasted veggies.
• Pizzeria Rustika – I didn’t have time to eat here but my hostel recommended it. The reviews mention fantastic pizzas and indoor & outdoor seating areas.
• Old Cellar Bled – for excellent risottos, pastas and other dishes with creative ingredients plus fantastic local wines, don’t miss this atmospheric evening venue.

Where to stay in Lake Bled

• Hostel – I stayed at Bled Hostel which was a great base with cooking facilities, a bar and friendly staff who will give you maps and help you organise everything about your trip. Highly recommended! Book from €20 .
• Budget hotel – a great option is Nature Hotel Lukanc with comfy rooms, parking and a garden area. Check availability from €90 .
• Mid-range hotel – just 2 minutes from the beach and set inside a 19th-century mansion, Vila Prešeren is a charming base. Check availability from €120 .
• Apartments – for all your home amenities, check out Apartments Mojca and Apartments Skok .
• Browse all Bled accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Half a day in Vintgar Gorge

Even if you have just 7 days in Slovenia, I’d suggest squeezing in a trip to Vintgar Gorge while visiting Bled. This natural paradise is one of the loveliest places I visited with a cool, misty climate even on a hot day.

The gorge is huge, reaching 1600 metres in length and 250 metres in depth, with the vibrant blue Radovna River gracefully cutting through the jagged rocks below.

You have superb views as you meander along wooden boardwalks built into the cliff, narrow passages, and bridges. At the end, you’re treated to the magnificent sight of a 16-metre waterfall. Entry to Vintgar Gorge costs €10. Operating with a one-way system, you’ll start at the ticket gate near Podhom village and end at Waterfall Šum near scenic St. Katherine Church . The gorge is closed during the Winter.

How to visit Vintage Gorge from Bled: walk (but make sure to bring enough water and sunscreen as there’s no shade), ride an e-bike , take a shuttle bus or drive. Even if you want to see Vintgar Gorge but you’re not staying overnight in Bled, it’s possible. Tours from Ljubljana visit Lake Bled & Vintgar Gorge during one day.

Slovenia itinerary days 5-6 – Bohinj

I added this second lake town to my Slovenia itinerary as an afterthought and I’m so glad I did. I wondered if it would underwhelm after spectacular Lake Bled but I was stunned by its beauty. Lake Bohinj is a lot bigger than Lake Bled and has different activities on offer. It’s a highly seasonal destination as you can swim in the waters of up to 24 degrees in summer but the lake often freezes in winter!

Read next: guide to visiting Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Things to do around Lake Bohinj

• Take a boat ride across the lake between Bohinj town and Camp Bohinj. This sightseeing boat has the dual purpose of transporting you to the start of the Savica Waterfall hike & the Vogel Cable Car.
• Hike to Savica Waterfall . Although there’s a car park and restaurant at the beginning of the hike, you can make it longer by starting at Camp Bohinj and walking through the Fairy Trail forest. If you’re super energetic and don’t mind a 4-hour return walk, you can even start in Bohinj town and hike along the north bank of the lake.
• Hike in Mostnica Gorge , a beautiful wooded area 6km from Bohinj. I hiked all the way to Planinska mountain hut serving hearty meals, beers and honey tea with jaw-dropping views of the valley.
• Ride the Vogel Cable Car to Vogel Ski Resort. Even if you don’t ski, it’s worth visiting the top for the best views around.
• Hire a kayak or canoe to explore the lake or go swimming.

For a 5 day Slovenia itinerary with a car, base either in Bohinj, Bled or anywhere in between for the final 3 nights and spend a day in each lake town then a day in Vintgar Gorge or Triglav Nat Park.

Where to stay in Lake Bohinj

• Hostel Pod Voglom – I stayed here and it was cheap with great buffet breakfasts including access to a cheese toastie machine! However, the place hasn’t been renovated for decades so don’t stay expect any luxury! Book from €22 .
• Hotel – stay at Bohinj Eco Hotel for 4* peace and comfort, views of the Julian Alps and access to the wellness resort. Book from €120 .
• Apartments – check out Cvetek Apartment in Ribčev Laz, and Apartment House Jager just out of town.
• Browse all Bohinj accommodation on Booking.com and Hostelworld .

Where to eat in Bohinj

I survived on packed lunches and pasta in Bohinj as I was usually out hiking during the days and too tired to go for dinner when I returned. Still, I heard good things about the burgers at Foksner . A lovely place to enjoy drinks by the lake is Restavracija Kramar .

Slovenia itinerary for 7 days – Triglav National Park or Soča Valley

If you’re staying in Bled or Bohinj, you’re surrounded by national parks and nature. For your 7th day, consider one of the following: Triglav National Park : named after Mount Triglav, the highest peak in the Julian Alps at 2864m, this region incorporates Nadiža karst spring, Soča spring, Martuljek Waterfalls and countless other natural attractions. Browse Triglav tours and activities . Kranjska Gora : just north of Triglav is this alpine resort with options for climbing, hiking and, in the winter, skiing and other snow sports. Soča Valley : found in the east of Slovenia, this region is easily accessible from both lake towns. The Soča River is one of the most beautiful in Europe, bright emerald in colour with plenty of options for kayaking, rafting and canyoning. Another unmissable place is Vršič Pass, the highest mountain pass in Slovenia and a fantastic place for a hike. Top activities & excursions include:

• Triglav National Park tour inc 3 nature hikes (€99)
• Julian Alps tour inc Kranjska Gora and Soca Valley from Bled (€80)
• Canyoning adventure from Bled (€74)
• Kayaking on the Soca River adventure (€58)
• Zipline over Sava River (€30)
• 3 day self-guided Mount Triglav and Lakes Valley hike from Bled inc accom & transport (€200) .

Slovenia itinerary days 8-10 – Istria

At the top of the Istrian peninsular (also home to parts of Croatia and Italy ), Piran and the surrounding region make an excellent addition to any Slovenia itinerary. This was my first stop after crossing the border from Croatia and it made for a wonderful introduction to Slovenia, even though it feels culturally distinct. With a 10-day Slovenia itinerary, you have time to spend the last 3 days exploring lovely Slovenian Istria.

Getting to Piran

From Ljubljana, drive in 1 hour 20 minutes or catch an Arriva bus in 2 hours 40 minutes. Some buses will drop in Portorož rather than Piran so hop on a quick €1 bus or take a taxi. From Bled or Bohinj, you can drive in around 2 hours or catch a bus transferring through Ljubljana or Trieste, Italy.

Things to do in Piran:

• Admire the key buildings in Tartini Square and stop for a coffee
• Walk the Walls of Piran dating back to the 7th century and offering spectacular views
• Climb to the bell tower of St. George’s Parish Church for yet more amazing views
• Visit the quirky Magical World of Shells Museum
• Take a walk around the headland . There are plenty of cafes and beach bars where you can drink in the views… And Aperol Spritz! Continue along Fiesa footpath until you’ve had your fill.

Where to eat in Piran, Slovenia

• Rostelin – two words: truffle pasta! They also serve other dishes but I only tried the tartuf fuži , a traditional type of pasta native to Istria. Large strips of pasta are cut diagonally to make diamond shapes.
• Fritolin Pri Cantini – right beside Rostelin, this is another highly-rated restaurant with outdoor seating. Mussels, sardines, whitebait and calamari are all on the menu. I heard great things but didn’t eat here because the menu is largely based around platters for multiple people and I was travelling solo.
• Ladja Podlanica Piran – the best meal I had in Piran was at this super local restaurant aboard a docked boat in the harbour. There’s no menu, just a few fresh seafood dishes of the day explained by the staff. It’s wonderful!
• Gostinstvo Jasmina Račan – this was another gem I stumbled upon with excellent reviews and quality local fare. The squid I had was super fresh and very affordable.
• Piran Pirano PastIccerIa – the best gelato in town with SO many flavours!

Where to stay in Piran

• Hotels – Art Hotel Tartini is decorated with art by Slovenian artists and has an enviable breakfast buffet (€120) / Hotel Piran is right in the centre of town with a restaurant, terrace and patio with sea views (€130)
• Apartments – traditional Piran house (€40)
• Browse all Piran accommodation on Booking.com and also check Portorož (a short bus ride away) for more options

More places to visit in Slovenian Istria

If you have limited time for the Istria leg of your Slovenia itinerary, I would recommend basing in Piran. It’s so charming! However, if you have any time for excursions, there are other places you can visit. Having a car here will enable you to see a lot more of the region in a short space of time.

This was where my Flixbus from Croatia arrived. Although I didn’t stay long, it’s a popular destination with a fancier vibe than Piran. There are hotels, beach bars and cafes. Cafe Central is known for its famous cakes so of course I swung by with all my luggage before heading to my accommodation in Piran. Priorities in check!

If you do prioritise longer in the spa town of Portorož during your Slovenia itinerary, there are a few things not to miss. If you’re staying for the seaside, then laze on Portorož Beach or Moon Bay (or rent a boat!), enjoy epic coastal views from the Strunjan Cliff path and try the local seafood. A more unique option is visiting the sculptures at Forma Viva – there are 120 ocean-side stone statues here, deftly melding art and nature together.

Due to its history as a spa destination, dating back to the 13th century when Benedictines from the monastery believed the nearby seawater and mud would help cure diseases and benefit health, it’s well worth trying a spa experience while you’re here (if your budget allows for it)! The Water Park Laguna Bernardin features a massive heated seawater pool, but many hotels feature spa treatments.

This traditional coastal town in Slovenian Istria is a lovely place to wander by the water or enjoy the many outdoor restaurants and cafes. You can see the main sites of Koper in half a day, giving you time to see the historic architecture and soak up the charming cafe-lined streets.

Visit Da Ponte Fountain (a replica of Rialto Bridge in Venice ), learn about the town at the regional museum, admire the 15th-century Praetorian Palace or pay €5 to climb 241 steps to the Bell Tower . Reach Koper from Piran in 25 minutes by car or catch a local bus.

This scenic fishing town has a couple of small beaches and several significant buildings including churches and palaces. The lack of huge must-dos means it’s sleepier and quieter than its neighbours: perfect if you hate crowds! Izola is halfway between Piran and Koper so makes an easy stop between the two.

If you do add Izola to your Slovenia itinerary, don’t miss the picturesque harbour, known for its colourful houses, cute fishing boats and the medieval Church of St. Mauro. Climb up 99 steps to the top of the church’s bell tower, built in 1356, for the best views in town. Next, wind through the quaint streets of the old town to see the Besenghi degli Ughi Palce and Manzioli Palace.

If you’re here for the seaside, relax on Svetilnik Beach, see the unique rock formations at Bele Skale Beach or wander down Izola Promenade. If you’re hungry, the promenade is also an excellent spot to find a seaview restaurant or cafe. You’ll also find plenty of spots for snorkelling and boating if you feel like taking to the water.

Alternate spots for your Slovenia itinerary

If somewhere above doesn’t take your fancy, there are several other places I can recommend. For an alternative to the classic itinerary, get off the beaten track at the following spots…

Maribor may be the second largest city in Slovenia however it’s still small by most country’s standards with less than 100,000 residents. The view from Pyramid Hill alone may be worth the trip to Maribor and that’s before discussing what the town is known for: wine! Wine fans may be interested to know that the world’s oldest grapevine can be found here at the aptly named Old Vine House in Lent district AKA the Old Jewish Quarter. But you’d be forgiven if history isn’t your bag and you just want to drink wine at the various tasting rooms around town! The Jeruzalem wine region is a spectacular hidden gem in Europe. For a summer road trip in Slovenia when tourist hotspots like Bled and Ljubljana are crowded and expensive, peaceful Maribor is a relaxed alternative that doesn’t compromise on beauty. The drive from Ljubljana takes 1.5 hours so you could consider visiting as a day trip or spending a leisurely couple of nights here.

The idyllic Slovenian town of Ptuj is just a 30-minute drive from Maribor so it’s worth a visit if you decide to add Maribor to your Slovenia travel itinerary. Like many historic European towns, it has a castle with fantastic sweeping views of the countryside and town’s typical red roofs. The locals’ fear of invasion has worked out very well for our photo-worthy travel shots! From Maribor, drive or take a taxi or the train (there’s also a bus but just one per day).

Vipava Valley

This is another lesser-visited wine region that may appeal to those who love hidden gems, sweeping scenery and, of course, delicious vino! This Vipava Valley region is very near the famous Škocjan Caves and Predjama Castle so, if you’re travelling with a car, it could be the perfect base from which to visit them while enjoying the Slovenian countryside peppered with wineries.

If sleepy wine regions don’t sound like your cup of tea (or wine), a contrasting area for adrenaline junkies is Bovec, nestled in northwest Slovenia. Located in the upper part of the Soča Valley, it’s not a million miles from the Julian Alps or Triglav National Park so can easily be combined into a Slovenia road trip itinerary, or you can catch a bus from Ljubljana. Activities in Bovec range from ziplining to rafting and kayaking on the Soča River. Virje Waterfall and Soča Gorge are spectacular points of natural interest.

Where next?

If you have more time to spend in Europe, consider crossing a border.

I spent 3 months living in Croatia so it’s somewhere I’ll always love and recommend to fellow travellers. The popular Dalmatian coastal cities like Split , Dubrovnik and Zadar aren’t especially close to Slovenia, however Zagreb is approximately a 2-hour journey by car, bus or train from Ljubljana. Ticking off the best things to do in Zagreb would make a cool 2-day city break. Likewise, if you’re visiting Piran, it’s only a short drive over the border in Istria to reach Croatian destinations like Pula and Rovinj . Pula has well-preserved Roman ruins and boat trips to the Brijuni Islands while Rovinj is ridiculously quaint and charming with fantastic food and colourful streets.

Read next: the ultimate Croatia itinerary

From Slovenian Istria, you’re just a few kilometres from Italy. The closest city is Trieste , a port city full of culture. The medieval Old Town takes influence from Italy, Slovenia and the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. Visit Miramare Castle, eat seafood, tour the museums and enjoy being in the Italian city that consumes the most coffee! You can also reach Venice in under 2 hours from Ljubljana. This is what I did, catching the Flixbus at the end of my Slovenia itinerary and finally ticking Venice off my bucket list. This city can be expensive and crowded (and dirty compared to Slovenia) but it’s a wonder of our world. See it before it’s too late! After that, I continued my Northern Italy itinerary and departed from Milan airport. This would make a great route if you have the time and energy left over!

For more Central Europe inspo see my guides to Budapest , Bratislava , Prague & more !

Slovenia FAQs

Is Slovenia expensive? I would say that Slovenia is not just between Western and Eastern Europe geographically but also in terms of cost. Hostels start from €10 a night, intercountry bus journies cost as little as €1 (that’s how much I paid between Lake Bohinj and Bled, although strangely the return journey cost €5) and meals in restaurants start from €6. However, in the summer, prices surge so it’s not a cheap detination between June and August! Can you drink tap water in Slovenia? Yes, it’s pristine! Is Slovenia safe? Incrediby so. It’s easily one of the safest places in Europe for solo travellers . I was there alone and felt very safe as a woman. The only place I had a slight problem with some shady characters was around Metelkova, an alternative live music and street art venue in Ljubljana. Is English spoken in Slovenia? Yes, locals speak amazing English and are happy to help you. But of course you should learn the local pleases and thank yous to be polite!

Thanks for reading!

Read my other Slovenia posts:

• 38 things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Where to eat and drink in Ljubljana, Slovenia
• Lake Bohinj travel guide
• Review of Wine Tasting Ljubljana

For more Europe content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

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TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING SLOVENIA Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner and search by month to see the cheapest dates. Driving in Europ e – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use Flixbus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide and Viator . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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Slovenia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

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.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

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:

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10 Scotland Road Trip Tips You Need to Know Before You Go

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Nova on the Road

Complete Guide for a Magical Slovenia Road Trip + 7-day Itinerary

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Slovenia road trip itinerary for 7 days.

Slovenia is a perfect European destination for everyone. You can go hiking in the Slovenian Alps, lay by the sea or a lake, visit towns, and do many more activities! This is your sign to go on a road trip to Slovenia this year!

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Table of Contents

About Slovenia

The Republic of Slovenia is a small south-central European country, often described as Europe’s green heart . Slovenia has borders to Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. With a total of 20,271 km2 , it’s only a small country, which makes a road trip through Slovenia much easier!

Slovenia is mostly mountainous and forested. Its capital city is Ljubljana and 2 other important cities are Koper and Maribor .

Slovenia is a small country with endless things to offer!

The Slovenian Alps

You’ll find the Slovenian Alps in the northwest of the country, also known as the Julian Alps . This area is very popular for hiking and water sports. Because other than high mountains, you’ll find many turquoise rushing rivers in the Julian Alps.

And with many other attractions, like Lake Bled, Triglav National Park, many waterfalls, and the Soca River, the Julian Alps is a magical place you have to see!  

The Slovenian Coast

The coast of Slovenia is only 47 kilometers of pure beauty. With the 3 main towns; Koper, Izola, and Piran being the most important, it’s not all that the Slovenian coast has to offer. You’ll also find the most wonderful nature and stunning beaches.

The Slovenian coast is only a 1.5-hour drive from the capital city Ljubljana.

Read my full guide on visiting the Slovenian coast !

Slovenia road trip 7-day itinerary

Now that you know a bit about the country, it’s time to plan your trip! I have made you a 7-day itinerary that’s perfect if you like an active vacation, but don’t mind a day or 2 relaxing. This itinerary doesn’t have hikes longer than 3 hours and is filled with ideas for unique activities.

This self-drive road trip itinerary begins and ends in Ljubljana . However, you can also let your trip end anywhere else. I’ve made it this way because many visitors fly into Ljubljana and from here you can easily rent a car and return it a week later.

Seeing that Ljubljana lies very central, you can choose to stay here for the entire week and go on day trips. However, this itinerary is made in a logical order, so you can also choose several different accommodations along the way (which I highly recommend).

Here it comes…

Day 1: Arrival – Ljubljana

On the first day, you can already explore a bit of the city, depending on your arrival time. I’m always a big fan of arriving in the afternoon because you can check into your accommodation at once and still have some daylight left to explore the city. So try to book a flight that’s arriving in the afternoon.

Ljubljana is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe! With the most colorful architecture, unique landmarks, and the best nightlife, Ljubljana will blow your mind!

Ljubljana is also known as the city of dragons because legend has it that long ago there was a dragon living near the spring of the Ljubljanica river. It was killed by Jason, the hero of Greek mythology, who is known as the founder of the city. As of today, the dragon is the symbol and protector of the city, and you will find several dragons there.

Things to do in Ljubljana:

• Admire the breathtaking city center
• Discover all the famous bridges
• Try and find all the dragons
• Visit Ljubljana Castle
• Enjoy Slovenian cuisine at some of the finest restaurants by the Ljubljanica River
• Take a break at Tivoli Park

One day in Ljubljana is enough to see all the highlights. On day 1 you’re probably gonna have just half a day in the city, but on day 2 you’ll also stay in the city for the bigger part of the day.

Day 2: Ljubljana – Piran

In the morning you should get some breakfast in the city, we got some amazing breakfast at Slovenska Hiša (Slovenian House). This restaurant is all for Slovenian cuisine, serves the best breakfast, and the riverside location is amazing!

Now it’s time to explore the parts of the city you didn’t get to yesterday. Make sure that you’re satisfied with the things you’ve seen in the afternoon because it’s time to drive to the coastline!

Pro tip: Pick up your car on this day, in the afternoon, because you’ll only need it from now on. This way you don’t have to pay for the first day of the itinerary when you won’t use it anyway. It’s cheaper to take the bus from the airport.

The drive down to Piran is only about an hour and a half.

Day 3: Piran – Koper  

Today you’ll explore the coast of Slovenia . On this small coastline, you’ll find several historic towns, with Koper, Izola, and Piran being the main ones. I’ve visited all 3 towns in 1 day and found that Izola is so small, you’d better visit Koper and Piran if you’re on limited time.

Let’s get in some breakfast and start exploring Piran.

Ps. In and near Piran you’ll also find the most stunning beaches of Slovenia , so getting in a beach break is more than recommended!

I love Koper and adore Izola, but Piran stole my heart . This town is out-of-this-world beautiful and very famous for it. Piran has been shaped by the Venetian rule, which you can see everywhere. These wonderfully shaped structures are hard to beat.

Things to do in Piran:

• Have some coffee at Tartini Square
• Visit the Church of Saint George
• Climb the bell tower for spectacular panoramic views
• Walk the medieval walls of Piran
• Get lost in the maze of cobblestones streets in the old town
• Eat some seafood at the restaurant Pirat
• Walk the Piran promenade to Punta

Staying 3 to 4 hours in Piran should be enough to enjoy the entire city.

In this Slovenian coast guide , you’ll find several tips for visiting and which beaches to visit.

Now, let’s move on to Koper!

Koper is the largest town of the 3 and is also home to the main port on the Slovenian coast. This makes it look a bit industrial at first, but once you head into the old town, you’ll have forgotten that part.

Koper is filled with history, dating back to Roman times. Koper is actually the oldest town in Slovenia ! For a few centuries, it was part of the Venetian Republic, and the old town was actually an island . This makes it a super fascinating town to explore.

Koper isn’t that big a city, 2 to 3 hours is enough to see all the highlights.

Make sure you:

• Walk through the Muda Gate
• Take a look around Tito Square
• Climb the tower of the Cathedral of the Assumption
• Wander through the medieval streets and alleys
• Visit the Praetorian Palace
• Count the lions (you’ll find them everywhere throughout the old town)

You can choose to drive up to the Julian Alps on this day, but you can also stay on the coast for another night. Get in one more sunset and have a few drinks… I recommend staying for one more night and driving to the Alps in the morning.

Day 4: Julian Alps – Great Soca Gorge

I hope you’ve had a good night’s sleep because on day 4 we’re going to explore the Julian Alps.

In the Julian Alps, there are so many activities you can do! You could go hiking, relax at a lake, visit several waterfalls, do some water activities, and so much more!

It’s so much fun to just drive through the Alps and find the most wonderful sights of the mountains and the Soca River.

I must say, I find it very hard to find the right activities for everyone. Because everybody’s different and like different things, I have made a list of the best activities in the Julian Alps, for you to choose from. This day is all up to you to fill with the things you want to do. You can do several activities on the list below or do none, it’s up to you!

Pro tip: Read this full guide on visiting the Soca Valley , it’s filled with must-know information and the best tips!

Remember, days 5 and 6 will also be spent in the Julian Alps, but are also loosely planned so that you can add another activity from the list below to these days.

Kozjak Waterfall

One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Slovenia is the Kozjak Waterfall. There’s a small entrance fee of €5 euros p.p ., and it’s so worth it! There’s a small footpath and several wooden bridges along the most beautiful blue water. The hike is super easy and not long at all. This is one of the best activities in the Julian Alps!  

Boka Waterfall

Want to see the mightiest waterfall in Slovenia? The Boka waterfall is 144 meters high and has a width of 18 meters , which makes it truly eye-catching! You’ll reach the viewpoint in only a 15-minute walk, and a 45-minute walk uphill will give you even better views! The walk uphill is at your own risk and could be dangerous.

Visiting the Boka Waterfall is entirely free !  

The Vršič Pass is the highest and most wonderful mountain pass in Slovenia. The pass road leads over 50 hairpin bends up into the mountains. There are many hikes starting from several points on the pass and you can stop as much as you like, to admire the amazing views! This road is closed between October and early May .

Zelenci Nature Reserve

Famous for its emerald-green lake that mirrors the huge mountains, Zelenci Nature Reserve is a must-see! On a hike through the park, you’ll be able to observe many kinds of flora and fauna, and you’ll get the most spectacular views of the limestone mountains!

Zelenci Nature Reserve is free to visit, and I recommend going here early in the morning on weekdays.

Šunikov Vodni Gaj hike

My absolute favorite hike in Slovenia is the Šunikov Vodni Gaj hike. This is because it’s a super easy hike and nobody knows about it! Even when it was crawling with tourists along the Soča River, this hike was super quiet ; we only came across 2 couples and a family along the way.

The Šunikov Vodni Gaj hike will take you to several fairytale-like waterfalls and the bluest water! As I’ve said, the hike is easy and takes no more than 2 hours to complete. There’s a small parking at the entrance and it’s totally free to visit!

The Great Soča Gorge

Wonder where the Soča Valley got its name from? Well, that would be the famous Soča Gorge. In the Great Soča Gorge, you’ll find some of the bluest water in Slovenia! The icy water is perfect for taking a short dip and there are many places to sunbathe by the river.

You can’t hike through the entire gorge, but there are several entrance spots where you can take some pictures like the one below!

If it’s a day of relaxation you’re looking for, Lake Jasna is the place to be! This lake’s filled with the most crystal clear water and has a very romantic scenery. You’re allowed to swim in the lake, so if you’re looking for the perfect place to relax, Lake Jasna won’t disappoint!

Tolmin Gorge

One of the most spectacular natural attractions in the Julian Alps is the Tolmin Gorge. Whilst hiking this 2-kilometer-long pathway, you will come across the most magnificent sights, like Bear’s Head, and the Devil’s Bridge. There’s also a thermal spring and a cave.

Buy your tickets beforehand and reserve a time slot! This way the gorge won’t get crowded. An adult ticket costs €10 euros and is more than worth it!

Slap Virje Waterfall

Considered one of the most beautiful, Virje Waterfall is a must-see! With only a 5-minute walk from the parking lot, you’ll be blown away by the enchanting sights of this waterfall! And it’s totally free to visit!

The sign there said you can swim in the water beneath the waterfall, but another sign said you can’t, so we’re not sure. I’d say get into the water if there are other people swimming and otherwise, it’s probably not allowed…

The small town of Bovec is THE hotspot for outdoor activities in the region. From this town, there’s a large offer of outdoor activities and tours.

You can go:

The options are endless for thrill-seekers! If you want to experience the Soča River to the fullest, Bovec is the place to start!

Javorca Church

Have you always had an interest in the First World War? Then the Javorca Church will be fascinating to you! This enchanting wooden church is a monument to the First World War and a sanctuary of peace. The church itself and the scenery around it are absolutely breathtaking!

An adult ticket costs €4 euros , and it should be bought in advance online, while you reserve a timeslot.  

Day 5: Mostnica Gorge – Lake Bohinj

Now, as I’ve said, if there are several things you want to do from the list above, days 5 and 6 are loosely planned, so you can add another activity to your itinerary!

On day 5, you’re staying a bit longer in the Julian Alps.

Mostnica Gorge

Your first stop on this day is the Mostnica Gorge; one of the most gorgeous gorges in Slovenia (yes, I did that on purpose😉)

You can hike the Mostnica Gorge in 3 hours , on an easy footpath. The river you’ll be following is super blue and flows through the most unique sceneries.

On this hike, you’ll find several amazing landmarks. There’s the little elephant rock, which is a very special rock formation that looks like an elephant drinking from crystal-clear water.

There’s also a very picturesque stone bridge, called Devil’s Bridge. It was built in 1777 and is very interesting because it only consists of one arch.

At the end of the gorge, you’ll find the Voje Waterfall, which you can climb up to.

For hiking the Mostnica Gorge, there’s an entrance fee of €4 euros per adult in the high season. It’s open every day during the season and closed in winter.

Lake Bohinj

After your small and easy hike in the Mostnica Gorge, it’s time to relax at Lake Bohinj!

Bohinj is filled with the most fun activities, you can:

• Visit the St. John The Baptist Church
• Go paddle boarding, kayaking, or canoeing in the lake
• Walk around Lake Bohinj
• Admire Savica Waterfall
• Ride the Vogel Cablecar and get the most spectacular views
• Relax on a beach by the lake

You can fill your entire afternoon using these activities, and enjoy the wonders of Lake Bohinj!

Food tip : In Lake Bohinj, we ate at a wonderful restaurant that’s worth a mention. Restavracija Kramar was super delicious and very affordable, definitely worth checking out!

Insider tip: If you’re into water activities, you can rent anything at Alpinsport, for a cheap price, with good service, and you can pay afterward! This way you don’t need to keep track of time, they will do it for you and you can just pay an honest price when returning the gear.

Day 6:  Lake Bled – Vintgar Gorge  

Keeping some of the best activities for last, day 6 is going to be mesmerizing! Starting the day again early in the morning with a most magical hike!

Vintgar Gorge

The famous Vintgar Gorge is one of the most popular natural highlights in Slovenia! You can explore this impressive gorge by wooden bridges and footpaths.

The natural beauty of the Vintgar Gorge is extraordinary. On your hike, you’ll explore the most impressive rock formations, the beautiful blue-and-green river, spectacular waterfalls, and more! The hike through Vintgar Gorge is breathtaking, this special place is one you won’t be able to forget!

The hike is around 3,6 kilometers but you will need around 3 hours to finish it, as you’ll probably be stopping all the time to admire the beautiful views!

I recommend doing this hike early in the morning, as soon as the park opens, which should be around 8 am. This way you’ll avoid the crowds and have an incredibly peaceful experience at the Vintgar Gorge!

An adult entrance ticket costs €10 euros . I know this is expensive, but it’s very worth it!

Check out this site to buy tickets and see the exact opening hours.

After the easy hike, it’s time to move on to another exceptional highlight of this itinerary!

I will talk this lake up like it’s the love of my life because it is…

Lake Bled is such a special place. It doesn’t matter when you visit, it’ll always take your breath away. I always heard that Lake Bled is beautiful and all, but that’s an understatement. I was literally speechless when seeing the lake for the first time. And the second time.

Lake Bled is a fairytale-like turquoise lake located in the Julian Alps. There’s a small island in the middle of the lake with the cutest church on it. The views of the lake are stunning from wherever you are!

Lake Bled is located right next to the spa town of Bled. The glacial lake can warm up to 25° C in summer , which makes it very pleasant to bathe in!

There are many things to do in Lake Bled, like:

• Visiting Bled Castle , where you can get an epic view of the lake
• Row a wooden boat to Bled Island and visit the church of the Assumption of Mary
• Hike around Lake Bled
• Rent a paddleboard
• Try a Bled Cream Cake
• Relax on a beach by the lake and take a swim!

These activities will fill up your day quickly. Just visiting and looking at the lake is already more than you could want, but getting in a boat on the lake, or hiking to the most spectacular viewpoints is more than worth it!

Bled Castle

Yes, you will be exhausted by the end of the day, but just ignore those doubts. Don’t listen to your body, but listen to the lake calling out your name (it does do that, right? Or is it just me…?).

You should book accommodation near the lake, so in the evening you can crash and get a good night’s sleep.

Day 7: Ljubljana – Departure

Is it already the last day? Time flies when you’re in such a magical destination!

On the morning of day 7, just take it slow, get some coffee, and drive back to Ljubljana.

Depending on the time of your flight, you may be able to explore a bit more of Ljubljana, or just take it slow, have a drink, and relax.

I personally love to sit down in a restaurant, drink a cocktail and talk about your trip together, the things you liked best, laugh about inside jokes, and just enjoy your last afternoon of vacation.

Things to know before visiting Slovenia on a road trip

Every country is different, so you should know some things before visiting, that may come in handy.

Language and Currency in Slovenia

The spoken language in Slovenia is Slovene , and other understood languages are Italian and Hungarian. Don’t worry, many people can speak English, especially in the more touristy places.

We had no trouble speaking English with anyone in Slovenia.

In Slovenia, they pay with the Euro , like many other European countries.

Transport in Slovenia

The roads in Slovenia are very good and drivable , for every driving skill. Of course, you will find some steep roads with tricky twists and turns, but everyone should be able to drive it.

So the best way to see Slovenia is by car . You can literally get anywhere when traveling by car. The country’s pretty small, so driving distances are small as well.

We visited Slovenia with our campervan: Nova. It was so nice to have the freedom to drive anywhere and do anything you’d like. And the views you get to see from the car are unbeatable!

But say you don’t have a driver’s license, what then?

Well, Europe is very famous for its good train network. With an Interrail pass , for example, you can easily visit several European countries for a good price. They also have one-country passes , which are also available for Slovenia.

In Slovenia, you can take trains to Maribor, Ljubljana, Koper, and some more places. Other locations are easily reachable by bus.

You can get a Slovenia Interrail pass for €54 – €140 euros (depending on your travel plans and preferences). Read all about Interrail here , or buy your pass at the Interrail website.

So road-tripping Slovenia by car is by far the best option, but it’s also possible (and very much fun) to travel through Slovenia by train.

Accommodation in Slovenia

As for accommodation, the options are endless! From camping to staying in 5-star hotels, you will find anything and everything in Slovenia!

So the main question is: What is your budget? Because depending on what you want to spend, you will find something that fits your budget and your preferences.

If you like traveling on an extreme budget or you’re traveling solo , your go-to accommodation is Hostels . There you may be able to stay the night for less than €20 euros and you will probably meet some very nice people.

Of course, there are also many campings in Slovenia. For a very affordable price, you can sleep in your tent or motorhome. Some campings in Slovenia are very basic and others will bring you the most extraordinary views and an unforgettable experience!

We wild camped most nights on our trip. However, this is not allowed in Slovenia so if you choose to take the risk, make sure you don’t leave any rubbish behind.

If your budget is up to €30 euros per person per night , head for Airbnbs . Especially when you’re traveling as a couple or a family, Airbnbs are perfect for you!

And if you don’t mind the cost and you want some luxury , hotels are for you! Anywhere in Slovenia, you can find hotels , from 2 to 5 stars.

Fun fact: Slovenia is filled with unique places to stay. So for a memorable vacation, check out these unique stays !

Food in Slovenia

Slovenia may be Europe’s most underrated food destination. But actually, the food in Slovenia is excellent! From gastronomic dishes to the most delicious Slovenian wines, it’s all so good!

Food is pretty affordable in Slovenia, it’s not expensive and not crazy cheap either. Eating out you can have a delicious meal for a reasonable price.

Certain regions in Slovenia have their very own delicacy, like this Bled cream cake. A typical pastry only found at Lake Bled .

If you’re traveling on a budget and staying in an Airbnb or Hostel, you can easily cook your own meals. Supermarket products can often be very cheap and you can cook your own meal for under €5,- euros!

Insider tip: Get your breakfast or lunch at a local bakery. At most bakeries, we paid €1,30 for a cappuccino and no more than €4 euros for a good, filling breakfast.

Is a Slovenia road trip expensive?

I’ve already told you a bit about the cost in Slovenia, but overall, for a European country, Slovenia isn’t expensive. I wouldn’t say it’s as cheap as most Eastern European countries, but it’s definitely cheaper than most countries in Europe.

And then again, it’s only as expensive as you make it out to be. If you’re traveling on a budget you can keep your trip very affordable, like €500 euro per week. But if you go all out, yeah, you’re gonna need some extra cash.

Do you want to visit Slovenia on a budget but now sure how? Read my free E-book about traveling Europe on a budget . It’s filled with simple tips and tricks to keep your trip super affordable. Check it out below!

Final thoughts on this Slovenia road trip

You now have everything you need to go on a super fun trip to Slovenia! With the best highlights and things to do, you’ll have a trip you’ll never forget.

Which place in Slovenia do you like best? Let me know in the comments below!

Related posts

• How to Explore the Magical Coast of Slovenia – A Full Guide
• Slovenia Hidden Gems – Top 15 Off The Beaten Path Destinations
• 14 Top Things to Do in Lake Bled: The Dreamiest Lake of Slovenia!
• 22 Amazing Things To Do in Slovenia! (For First-Timers)
• Traveling Spectacular Istria: Hidden Gems you Don’t Want to Miss!

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Tips to Plan a Slovenia Road Trip (+ Itinerary for 7 / 10 days and longer)

Last updated on November 6, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Time to plan your unforgettable Road Trip in Slovenia !  You can already see a lot with one week in Slovenia but if you have more, that’s great! Below is my guide to help you define your perfect Slovenia Itinerary for 7 days, 10 days or longer – practical tips, where to go, map, photo inspiration and day by day suggestions.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Slovenia:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Slovenia: DiscoverCars

My favorite adventure from Bovec: Kayak on the Soca River

My favorite excursion from Ljubljana: Postojna Cave and Predjama castle

My favorite places to stay:

• Lubljana , central – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: Lesar Hotel Angel
• Bled , iconic – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: Vila Bled
• Bovec , outdoorsy – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: Dobra Vila
• Piran , historic – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: Hotel Piran

Road Trip in Slovenia – Video

Let’s start with a short video to show you what a road trip in Slovenia could look like:

Planning your Slovenia Road Trip – General Tips

How to get to slovenia.

Slovenia is located in Central Europe .

Its main airport is situated in the center of the country, 30 min North of the capital Ljubljana. And it is also only 30 min away from Lake Bled.

It is a small airport, easy to navigate to.

You can also access Slovenia by road from Austria, Croatia and Italy. So, you can land in Zagreb and create a Slovenia-Croatia road trip.

Visa for Slovenia

• Slovenia is part of the EU Schengen area – so citizens of other member-states can travel without a visa with a valid identification document
• For other countries – Always make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months past your return travel date – Some nationalities can travel in Slovenia up to 3 months without a visa, others are required to apply for a visa. Check with your consulate.

Best time to visit Slovenia

3 criteria to consider when choosing when to go on a road trip through Slovenia

• Weather – you can find 3 different climates in Slovenia: Mountainous, continental and Mediterranean. However, there is always a clear distinction between the seasons. It gets really warm in Summer and cold in Winter in the mountainous areas (with snow) – just consider overall seasons. For month by month, you can never predict what the weather will be like. And anyway, it can change very fast in the mountains.
• Crowds – If you want to avoid crowds, don’t travel in Winter to the mountain ski resorts and avoid July and August all together. It gets really crowded especially at Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj and the coast
• Activities – It also depends on the type of activities you want to do: skiing, visits, museums, rafting… Some activities and monuments are closed in Winter. The Vrsic mountain pass is closed in Winter. So, make sure the things you want to do are open.

Overall, it is often considered that May, June and September are the most enjoyable months to travel to Slovenia. But Lake Bled with the ice and the snow on the mountains, also has a lot of charm…

Driving in Slovenia

Driving in Slovenia is really easy. There is a great network of Motorways and roads are kept in good condition. You can check my Driving in Slovenia article for all my tips, all the rules, a video and information to facilitate your experience.

Or here is a quick overview of things you should know:

• Dipped headlights should be turned on all the time
• Seatbelt is mandatory for all
• Speed limit is 50km/h in cities and 130km/h on motorways
• You need to purchase a vignette to drive on motorways (no tollbooths)
• Alcohol limit is 0.0% alcohol in the blood
• Road status check here

Need to rent a car in Slovenia?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Accommodations in Slovenia

You can find all types of accommodations in Slovenia: hotels, guesthouses, B&B, rentals, hostels… They also have great campsites.

You can find more information and some suggestions on my article about where to stay in Slovenia .

Choosing where to go in Slovenia – Map

Slovenia main touristic destinations.

Slovenia is stunning everywhere with green hills or mountains and plenty of trees. However, there are region more touristic than others. 

• Ljubljana – The Capital city of Slovenia, a charming lively city with a pedestrian old center and a castle overlooking it ( see my article )
• Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj – The most touristic area in Slovenia (some people only go there directly from the airport) – Stunning lakes at the foot of the Julian Alps with emerald colors, a castle, an island and waterfalls ( see my article )
• Bovec and the Soca Valley – To the West of the country is the Soca valley, where flows one of the most beautiful rivers in the world, the Soca river, sometimes called the Emerald River. Bovec is a mountain sport center with hiking, biking, rafting, canyoning… ( see my article )
• Postojna caves and the Karst region – Towards the South is the karst region with many many (many) underground caves. The most famous is the Postojna one with the train to go deep inside. There is also the Unesco site of the Skojcan cave and the fascinating Predjama cave castle ( see my article )
• Piran and the Slovenia Coast – Slovenia has a very small coast but a charming one. I fell in love with the old town of Piran located on a small peninsula ( see my article )
• The Logar valley and panoramic roads – To the North, you can also find mountains with the Logar Valley. There are 3 beautiful small valleys ending in mountain circus. The region is also developing a great panoramic road with traditional farms and splendid views ( see my article )
• Maribor and the East – Towards the East around the 2nd largest city Maribor , you can find vineyards, charming old towns (such as Ptuj ), castles, monasteries and more…

Where to go in Slovenia Map

And here is a map to give you a general idea of the country situation:

Detailed maps with all the most beautiful locations are included in my eBook:

Plan your dream trip in Slovenia thanks to my guide

• 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 100+ pre-selected locations
• 16+ extra ideas
• GPS + info to make the most of your time
• 190+ original photos to help you choose

Driving times in Slovenia

Here is an idea of the driving time between the main destinations, to help gauge what you can do (not counting potential traffic jams):

• Ljubljana to Lake Bled – 45 min
• Lake Bled to Bovec – 2h (via Vrsic pass, not stopping)
• Ljubljana to Postojna Cave – 45 min
• Bovec to Postojna Cave – 2h
• Ljubljana to Piran – 1h30
• Ljubljana to Maribor – 1h30
• Ljubljana to Logar Valley – 1h30

And you can combine with a Croatia road trip or and Austria road trip:

• Ljubljana to Zagreb (Croatia) = 1h45 drive
• Ljubljana to Graz (Austria) = 2h15 drive

Things to see on a trip around Slovenia

There is much to see in Slovenia! And for everyone’s taste:

• Natural wonders – lakes, river, mountains, caves… The colors are simply unbelievable
• Cultural experiences – Wine regions, old towns, salt industry, farms…
• History and monuments – Castles, monasteries, strategic towns…
• And also great museums! I really enjoyed the Skofja Loka regional museum, the Idrija Museum about Mercury and Lace and the Bistra Museum about technology (fantastic old car collection!)

You can see my Best of in my article about the best things to do in Slovenia .

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

Slovenia road trip Itinerary 7 days – Highlights

If you have 7 days in Slovenia, here is a suggested itinerary which covers a good overview of the highlights of the country:

Day 1 – Bled

Airport to Lake Bled – 30 min.

Discover the amazing lake. You can walk along the shore, visit the castle, explore the Vintgar Gorge… A day of colorful wonders

See my guide to Lake Bled

Stay at Lake Bled – check out the best rated accommodations in Lake Bled

Day2 – Bled & Bohinj

Spend the morning at Lake Bled. If you are courageous, you can climb to Ojstrica viewpoint for sunrise.

Enjoy a boat ride to the island (very touristy) Then head to Lake Bohinj and appreciate the wilder area. 

Day 3 – Bohinj

Explore the sourroundings of Lake Bohinj. Appreciate the view from Ukanc, climb to the unique Savica Waterfall and take a lift to Vogel for incredible views of the Julian Alps.

See my guide to Lake Bohinj

Drive to Postojna – 1h45

Stay at Postojna to be able to enjoy the first tour of the cave the next morning – check out the best rated accommodations in Postojna

Day 4 – Karst Region

Visit the amazing Postojna cave . Then head to the Fascinating Predjama Castle just 15min away.

In the afternoon, either discover the Skojcan Caves or head to the Lipica Stud farm if you really love horses (not worth it otherwise, in my opinion)

Postojna to Piran – 1h

Stay at Piran – check out the best rated accommodations in Piran

Day 5 – Piran

Explore the fascinating town of Piran, climb on the walls and in the tower, get lost in all the small alleys. learn about the salt industry and relax.You can also opt to visit the nature park nearby

Check out my guide about Piran and the Coast

Day 6 – Coast and Ljubljana

Either drive straight to Ljubljana to have 2 full days there, or stop en route to see the fishing village of Izola and the historical town of Koper.

Piran to Ljubljana – 1h30

See my Guide of things to do in Ljubljana

Stay at Ljubljana – check out the best rated accommodations in Ljubljana

Day 7 – Ljubljana

River cruise, Gastonomy tour, Castle visit, Street art overdose… there is much to do in this charming capital. Or you can just stroll, relax and enjoy the vibe.

You can also head to Soul Travel for some ideas about Eco-travel in Slovenia

One week in Slovenia Itinerary – Full Mountains

With only one week in Slovenia you might also build your itinerary only around mountainous areas:

Same as above

Day 4 – Soca Valley North

Head East to the Soca Valley. In Summer, take the Vrsic pass (beware, your GPS will indicate a faster route that goes through Austria and Italy). Stop at Lake Jasna and along the road for great mountain panoramas and river views.

Check out my Soca Valley article .

Stay around Bovec – check out the best rated accommodations in Bovec

Day 5 – Soca Valley South

The Soca River continues to the South.

You can walk to some beautiful waterfalls (Virje, Boka, Kozjak…) and explore the Stunning Tolmin Gorges.

Check out my guide about the Tolmin Gorges .

Stay around Bovec – check out the best rated accommodations in Tolmin

Day 6 & 7 – Ljubljana

Finish in Ljubljana

Slovenia Itinerary 10 days and more

If you are lucky to have more than 7 days for your Slovenia road trips, below are some extra ideas.

Extra Day – Logar Valley

You could spend the day at the magnificent Logar Valley, get to the Rinka waterfall and drive the Solcava Panoramic Road.

Read my Logar Valley Region Guide .

Stay in the Logar Valley – Hotel Plesnik has the best views – Check out the latest prices

Extra Day – East Towns

And you can head east to visit vineyards and explore historical old centers and their castles like in Maribor or Ptuj.

Stay at Ptuj – check out the historical Hotel Mitra

Extra Day – Others

If you have 10 days in Slovenia or more, there are many itinerary variations you can create with Castles, Monasteries, Vineyards, off the beaten path locations… In that case my eBook can help you easily create your Slovenia road trip plan:

Other Slovenia Travel Tips

• Language  – Slovene but English is widely spoken in touristic areas (and German in the East)
• Money – Euros only
• Tips – not mandatory (often 10% at restaurant and taxi)
• Credit card widely accepted – some off the beaten track small accommodations might request cash
• Electricity – 220V, Types C/F (Plug with 2 round Pins)
• Traditional meals are really large portions!
• Emergency – 112

Packing for Slovenia

Nothing very specific to pack for Slovenia. You can check out my general Travel Checklists to get ready.

Items I always recommend to carrying when traveling:

Binoculars to be able to admire all the details in the scenery and monuments ( see my guide )

Thermal Blanket. They don’t take a lot of space and it is safer to have one when driving in Winter or hiking

Power strip + adapter to be able to charge all my equipment at the same time

And bring a notebook to keep all your memories!

Want to see more of SLOVENIA?

PREVIOUS: 

Best cities, towns and villages in Slovenia

NEXT: 

WHERE TO STAY IN SLOVENIA

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Reader Interactions

July 19, 2018 at 11:39 PM

Hello! I really appreciate this to get me thinking about an upcoming road trip my friends will be taking. However, we will be starting and finishing in Split. Do you have an itinerary recommendation for a 7 day trip from Split through Slovenia and back to Split?! Thank you SOOO much!

July 20, 2018 at 8:19 AM

Hi Sarah I am sorry I don’t have time to create personalised itineraries. I wish you wonderful travels! Claire

January 26, 2019 at 11:53 PM

What kind of transportation did you use? A rental car? Lazar

January 27, 2019 at 5:33 AM

Hi Lazar, Yes, a rental car

January 27, 2019 at 9:45 AM

Thanks for the quick reply! As I’m only 19, I’ll have to do some research on that as most companies require you to be at least 21 and over….

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

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The Perfect 7 Day Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary

Slovenia may be a tiny country, but it is, above all else, an intensely beautiful one. This Slovenia itinerary will show you the absolute best highlights of the country on a fun Slovenia road trip!

Slovenia is one of our favorite countries to road trip in Europe: its small size combined with its wildly diverse beauty, ranging from villages dotted with terracotta rooftops on the Adriatic Sea all the way to dramatic mountain peaks in Triglav National Park, make it incredibly rewarding to explore by car.

From stunning Lake Bled to adorable Piran, and from the dramatic beauty of the Julian Alps to the laid-back city of Ljubljana, here’s how to spend an unforgettable 7 days in Slovenia.

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Slovenia Itinerary

Renting a car for your slovenia road trip, can this slovenia itinerary work without a car, the perfect slovenia road trip itinerary, where to stay in slovenia, slovenia itinerary map, more than 7 days in slovenia, what to pack for a trip to slovenia.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We’ve designed this 7 day Slovenia itinerary as a road trip, winding from the capital of Ljubljana, past Slovenia’s most beloved mountain lakes, through the stunning Julian Alps, and all the way down to the Adriatic Sea, before looping back to the capital city to catch your plane home.

That sounds like a much further journey than it is–if you drove this Slovenia road trip route straight through without detours or hikes, the driving would only take 6-8 hours–but that’s part of the joy of traveling in Slovenia: for such a small country, it is packed with a fantastic array of things to do and see.

While we intentionally started and ended this Slovenia itinerary in the capital city of Ljubljana, as that’s where you’ll likely fly into on a standalone trip, Slovenia can also be combined with either Italy, Croatia, Austria, or some combination of those for an amazing trip!

If you’re heading to Slovenia from outside of Europe, here’s a travel hint for planning your itinerary: check the flights to Venice if Ljubljana looks pricey. Venice is only a few hours from Piran and also makes an excellent starting point for this itinerary.

For most people, of course, taking a Slovenia road trip will require renting a car.

We recommend renting a small car through Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare the prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

For the purposes of this Slovenia itinerary, we recommend picking up a car the morning you leave Ljubljana–there’s no reason to pick one up for the night you spend in the city, as parking it will likely be a hassle and you won’t need it for exploring the capital.

Check rates & book your rental car with Discover Cars today!

For the most part, yes.

While we strongly believe that Slovenia is best experienced on a road trip, and you’ll absolutely see more of the country by driving yourself, if you can’t or would rather not drive, you can still cover the vast majority of the sights included on this Slovenia road trip itinerary through a combination public transportation and guided tours.

If you’re not planning to drive, we recommend basing yourself in Ljubljana and traveling from there.

This popular day trip to Lake Bled and Vintgar Gorge and this day trip to Piran, Predjama Castle, and the Postojna Caves will give you a good idea about what options are available for guided tours around Slovenia.

Day 1: Arrive in Ljubljana and start exploring.

If you’re flying into Slovenia, you’ll almost certainly arrive in the colorful, funky capital city of Ljubljana–and if you’re anything like us and basically any of our friends who have visited, you’ll immediately become smitten with it.

Ljubljana is an incredibly fun city, full of bustling cafes and interesting sights watched over by the ever-present Ljubljana Castle that looms over it.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the incredible (and incredibly intense) street art in Metelkova, snap photos at the Dragon Bridge, soak in the views from the grounds of the castle, and see the colorful Preseren Square.

Right by the square, you’ll be able to spot the city’s famous Triple Bridge, a unique piece of architecture that feels right at home in Ljubljana.

If you don’t have a chance to hit all the places you’d like in Ljubljana today, don’t worry–this Slovenia itinerary will loop back to the capital before you leave.

Where to Stay in Ljubljana

H2O Hostel — For the perfect combination of an ideal location and excellent reviews, while sticking to a budget, look no further than the popular H2O Hostel, located a mere 5-minute walk from the Triple Bridge. With both private room and dorm options, H2O Hostel is a flexible and fun place to stay in Ljubljana.

Check rates & book your stay at H2O Hostel today!

B&B Petra Varl — Located at the foot of Castle Hill and set in a 16th-century building in central Ljubljana, B&B Petra Varl is located within walking distance of the city’s major sights, gets excellent reviews, and beautiful city views.

Check rates & book your stay at B&B Petra Varl today!

Antiq Palace — Tucked into a quiet courtyard and housed in a former aristocratic home dating to the 16th century, this luxurious boutique hotel is within easy walking distance of Ljubljana’s most popular sights and features gorgeous rooms, excellent reviews, and two beautiful courtyards.

Check rates & book your stay at Antiq Palace today!

Day 2: Visit beautiful Lake Bled.

If you’re actively planning a trip to Slovenia, you’ve probably already seen Lake Bled about a thousand times in photos. Without a doubt, the view of tiny Bled Island nestled in the center of the large lake is the most famous image of Slovenia.

… And the reality is even lovelier than the photos can convey.

Lake Bled is an incredibly beautiful place that belongs on any Slovenia road trip itinerary.

While you’re there, visit Bled Castle for incredible views of the lake, rent a rowboat to head out to Bled Island (and the Church of the Assumption that sits on it), go swimming if the weather permits, sample a tasty piece of Bled Cream Cake, and hike along (or above) the lake.

Where to Stay in Bled

Villa Mint & Lavender — Featuring excellent reviews and housed in a local home, Villa Mint & Lavender is located within walking distance of Bled Castle and Lake Bled and is a quiet and beautiful place to rest during your time at the lake.

Check rates & book your stay at Villa Mint & Lavender!

Guest House Mlino — Located right on the shores of Lake Bled, Guest House Mlino has all the features you could hope for in a place to stay in Bled: excellent views, an onsite restaurants, great reviews, and easy access to all the best things to do in Bled–including a boat rental station right in front of the guest house.

Check rates & book your stay at Guest House Mlino!

Vila Bled — As the former summer home of President Tito, you know that Vila Bled is bound to be luxurious–and it is. Set in a gorgeous building right on Lake Bled, Vila Bled offers unparalleled views, spacious rooms, and an onsite restaurant, all tied together with excellent service.

Check rates & book your stay at Vila Bled!

Day 3: Check out Lake Bohinj and the Vintgar Gorge.

Bigger and slightly less manicured than–yet every bit as beautiful as–Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj is the perfect next stop on your Slovenia itinerary.

Whether you want to rent a boat, go swimming, or try out one of the many hikes near the lake, you’ll no doubt enjoy your time there.

Personally, we recommend making time for a visit to nearby Savica Falls as part of your day in and around Lake Bohinj. It’s easily accessible with a short walk and one of our favorite waterfalls in Slovenia (which is very high praise).

For the second half of your day, also consider heading to the stunning Vintgar Gorge to enjoy a different kind of natural beauty while hiking along its beautiful boardwalks.

Day 4: Go for a hike in Triglav National Park. 

In our opinion, Triglav National Park is among the most stunning national parks in Europe–and we don’t say that lightly.

Centered around Mount Triglav, the highest peak in the Julian Alps, the park is expansive and covers everything from the stunning Soca River Valley to the peaks of seemingly endless mountains.

Technically, the third day of this Slovenia itinerary already touches on Triglav National Park–Lake Bohinj is inside its borders–but it’s worth setting aside a full day to explore the park with a beautiful hike.

If you’d rather not climb high, look for something in the Soca River Valley, or consider chasing a couple of waterfalls (Pericnik Falls is fairly easy to access and stunning).

If you would like to see the mountains from above, there are dozens of trails to choose from! The photo below is a view of the Vrata Valley we found when hiking toward Sleme from near Mojstrana.

Day 5: Get underground (and visit a castle).

From soaring mountain peaks to incredible caves: the fifth day of your Slovenia road trip is likely to be a complete opposite from your fourth.

Slovenia is home to two popular caves, located about 30 minutes apart by car.

Choose one to explore this morning–personally, we chose to visit Skocjan Caves, which features an absolutely mesmerizing underground river and holds a UNESCO World Heritage distinction.

With a resume like that, you’d think they’d be the most popular caves in Slovenia, but no–Postojna Cave holds that designation. These caves are a bit busier and more developed, but still incredible to visit.

After finishing up your cave experience, head to Predjama Castle to check out another unique feature of Slovenia: a castle built right into the cliffside!

Day 6: Relax in picturesque Piran.

Charming Piran is the jewel of Slovenia’s small slice of Adriatic coastline, and the perfect place to kick back and relax as your Slovenia road trip nears its end.

Set on a tiny peninsula that juts into the sea, be sure to climb Piran’s town walls during your stay for the best view of its gorgeous setting.

Piran is also an excellent place for a swim in the sea, and for wandering semi-aimlessly up and down the charming maze of streets (you can’t get too lost on a peninsula this size!).

Be sure to also check out Piran’s beautiful marina, pass through Tartini Square, and visit St. George’s Cathedral during your time in Piran.

Where to Stay in Piran

Hostel Pirano — Located in the heart of historic Piran, Hostel Pirano is a reliably comfortable place to stay on a budget in Piran. With excellent reviews and both dorm and private accommodation available, you can’t ask for a better combination of convenience and price when visiting Piran.

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Pirano!

Hotel Zala Piran — With comfortable rooms, a great included breakfast, and–as of a few years ago, at least–an adorable dog named Stella who lives downstairs, Hotel Zala Piran is an excellent option for mid-range travelers. Though it has undergone a name change since we were there, this is where we stayed in Piran, and we’d be happy to return.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Zala Piran!

Hotel Piran — Set right up against the sea and in the historic center of the city, Hotel Piran is one of the most popular places to stay in the city–and with good reason. With thousands of excellent reviews, swimming access right outside the door, and an included breakfast that guests rave about, you can’t go wrong with a stay at Hotel Piran.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Piran!

Day 7: Head back to Ljubljana & say goodbye to Slovenia.

As you prepare to say goodbye to Slovenia, make your way back to Ljubljana to turn your rental car in and head home (or to your next destination, as the case may be).

The drive from Piran to Ljubljana is only around 1.5 hours, so if you have extra time on your hands, consider exploring any sights in Ljubljana that you didn’t have a chance for the day you arrived in Slovenia.

You’ll likely want to move hotels throughout this Slovenia road trip–we’d recommend staying in Ljubljana, followed by staying in (or near) Bled for the next couple of nights, then in Triglav National Park, followed by staying overnight in (or near) Piran.

We’ve provided recommendations above, but as the potential places to stay when you visit Triglav National Park are so incredibly widespread and varied, that we didn’t specify any recommendations.

Personally, we stayed in this apartment near Mojstrana during our time in Triglav National Park and can’t recommend the location (or the wonderful Airbnb hosts ) enough.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

If you’re lucky enough to have more than a week in Slovenia, our first piece of advice would be to slow down and spend more time in each and every one of the places we included on this Slovenia itinerary, rather than adding on more stops.

Triglav National Park, in particular, can soak up tons of time, especially if you’re an avid hiker!

We once spent a week staying inside the park, and still constantly dream about returning to explore the area more thoroughly.

With more than 7 days in Slovenia, also consider heading to Bovec, often dubbed the adventure capital of Slovenia and an excellent place for exploring the Soca Valley, checking out the picturesque Tolmin Gorge, and stopping by the offbeat-but-beautiful city of Maribor. 

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and an exciting Slovenia road trip is definitely a case of better safe than sorry. We use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Slovenia.

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable. Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “The Perfect 7 Day Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary”

Thank you so much for sharing this itinerary! My sister and I used this as a guide for our Slovenia trip last summer and we absolutely loved it.

That’s wonderful to hear, thank you Hannah! So glad you had a great time.

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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 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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5 days in slovenia: see it all with this 5 day slovenia itinerary.

Last updated on August 9th, 2020 at 08:10 pm

I’ll be the first to admit that Slovenia wasn’t high on my bucket list during my time in Europe. Sure, Lake Bled looked pretty on Instagram, but at this point, I was well aware that seeking out destinations based on Instagram left my travels feeling empty. So when a friend suggested that I meet her in Slovenia, I wasn’t exactly super excited about it, and almost declined. However, after being on the road for 8 months I was in need of a familiar face. So I said yes and figured that I could add 5 days in Slovenia to my European itinerary.

Why Slovenia Should Be on Your European Bucket List

And let me just tell you, Slovenia is spectacular. Slovenia is a small country that offers so much to its visitors. You’ve got the charming capital city of Ljubljana, gorgeous lakes, the Julian Alps, and peaceful coastal cities. Plus various caves and castles. And the Slovenian people are just as charming and welcoming!

The five days I spent exploring Slovenia are one of the highlights of my 10 months of travel. The entire time I was there, I kept kicking myself for not getting there sooner and for only having 5 days!

How to Get to Slovenia

Depending on where you’re coming from there are a variety of options for getting to Slovenia. I was coming from Croatia after having spent a week relaxing in a hostel on the Adriatic sea. On my way to Slovenia, I stayed for two nights near Plitvice Lakes National Park , where I spent one day in the park and the next morning river rafting. I took a bus from Plitvice to Zagreb, another underrated European destination , and then I connected from Zagreb to Ljubljana. This 5 day Slovenia itinerary will start in Ljubljana so I will focus on getting transportation there.

There are a wide range of bus services to Slovenia depending on your whereabouts in Europe. The majority of bus routes stop in Ljubljana and from there you can make connections to other destinations in Slovenia. I recommend two websites to help you plan how to get from where you are to Ljubljana, Get By Bus and FlixBus .  

There are a number of airports in Slovenia, however, the airport you’ll likely fly into is Ljubljana (LJU). Additionally, if you can find cheaper tickets to Zagreb, Croatia or Triest, Italy those are decent options as well. Then you could take a bus or even rent a car to get to Slovenia.

Slovenia’s currency is the Euro. In all of the cities on this itinerary, there are accessible ATMs. Credit cards are accepted, however, it’s best to have cash on hand, especially in smaller cities. Many bus tickets you’ll have to pay cash, especially in Bled. In fact, if I remember correctly, there was only one window accepting credit cards at the bus station in Ljubljana. So prepare with cash accordingly, but know you can restock at ATMs as well.

Solo Female Travel Concerns

Slovenia is safe for solo female travelers. I arrived in Ljubljana well past midnight in the middle of a massive rain storm. Since the weather was so horrible, there was no one out on the streets, and I felt completely safe walking to the hostel. Also wandering around the cities mentioned here and even getting lost a few times, I never felt in danger.

This post contains affiliate links, which means that, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a tiny bit of income if you decide to make a purchase or booking.

5 Days in Slovenia Itinerary

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff.

Here’s an overview of your 5 Day Slovenia Itinerary :

• Day 1: Arrive in Ljubljana, explore the city. Overnight in Ljubljana
• Day 2: Travel to Bled, explore Bled & Vintgar Gorge. Overnight in Bled
• Day 3: Sunrise hike in Bled. Afternoon at Lake Bohinj. Overnight in Bled
• Day 4: Travel to Piran, explore Piran’s city walls. Overnight in Piran
• Day 5: Relax in Piran. Head off to your next destination.

Day 1 in Slovenia: Ljubljana

Make sure you wear your walking shoes for your one day in Ljubljana ! Ljubljana is a very pedestrian friendly city and it’s the best way to see it! I’ll provide you with a general overview of which direction to walk so you can see most of the highlights efficiently, however, definitely veer into the alleyways and random side streets.

Breakfast at Le Petite Cafe & Restaurant

Start your day off right with breakfast at Le Petite Cafe & Restaurant. They are open daily from 7:30 am-midnight, serving breakfast until 12:00 pm during the week and brunch until 5:00 pm. So even if you sleep in you’ll have a chance to enjoy a Croque Madame and a smoothie.

Preseren Square

After breakfast walk towards old town, Preseren Square. You’ll pass by Cobbler’s bridge and a number of cafes that are worth stopping into for a treat. Preseren Square is where you’ll find the pink church and the triple bridge. This area is said to be the meeting point of Ljubljana.

Ljubljana Cathedral

From the square, walk across the triple bridge to Ljubljana Cathedral. Its green domes are a part of Ljubljana’s skyline and it’s interior much more stunning than its exterior. It’s free to enter too! Just beyond the cathedral, you’ll find a large open market, Central Market. Here you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and even clothing!

Ljubljana Castle

Afterward, walk up to Ljubljana Castle. It provides excellent views of the city below and is a great place to watch the sunset. Plus, you can see the majority of the castle for free which is a lovely bonus! If you don’t feel like walking up the hill, there is a funicular ride you can take, although I couldn’t find it (admittedly I didn’t try very hard).

Dragon Bridge

When you’re done with the castle walk down the hill to Dragon bridge. Dragons are the city’s symbol of power, courage, and wisdom. You’ll actually find them in a number of places throughout the city, so keep your eyes open. There are four of them guarding either side of the bridge. It’s also a pretty spot for a photo opp with the Cathedral and Castle as a nice backdrop on a sunny day.

Ice Cream at Cacao

You’ve just done quite a bit of walking, so stop in for a treat at Cacao. The ice cream at Cacao is so freaking good on a hot summer’s day.

Trivoli Park

After the treat, head to Trivoli Park for a bit of respite from the city. Trivoli Park is a large green space just a few minutes walk outside of the city center. There are a number of wooded trails you can walk through, plenty of benches to relax in for a bit, an open-air art gallery, and even a sports complex. Even though Ljubljana is small and not as crowded compared to other capital cities in Europe, a breath of fresh air in a park is always welcome.

Dinner along the Riverfront

Then head back in to town for dinner and drinks along the riverfront. There are a number of options here and they all look delicious, so just pick one that suits you and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the riverfront.

Where to Stay in Ljubljana

I stayed at Turn Hostel which is located above an English pub just minutes from Preseren Square. It was comfortable, clean, and had good WiFi. The only drawbacks are there was no kitchen or common area to meet people. On one of my walks, I passed by Hostel Vrba that was about 15 minutes outside of the city center, by foot. But it was on a beautiful tree-lined street that had lots of restaurants and bars on it as well.

Check out the Booking map below to find a place suitable for your budget and style of travel.

Day 2 in Slovenia: Lake Bled

After your day in Ljubljana head to the picturesque town of Bled for two nights. Bled is a small town, that gets crowded very quickly during the summer months. So it’s best to visit in the shoulder season or towards the end of summer if you want to enjoy it without feeling overcrowded.

How to Get to Bled from Ljubljana

Buses leave frequently to Bled from the main bus station in Ljubljana. There isn’t a need to purchase a ticket in advance. Head to the bus station and ask for a ticket for the next bus to Bled. It costs approximately €7 for a one-way ticket and takes about an hour to get there. The bus stop in Bled is conveniently located directly in the center of town.

Day 1 in Bled

Well, the first thing to do in Bled is quite obvious, head to Lake Bled. There is a boardwalk path the entire circumference of the lake which makes for a beautiful walk upon arrival in Bled. It will help acquaint you with the lake as you see various places to swim, rent canoes or SUPs, or simply sunbathe.

You can rent a canoe, SUP, or pay for a Pletna boat to take you across the lake to Bled Island. I opted out of Bled Island due to reviews I read saying it’s not really worth it. But, it’s always nice to get out on the water even if you skip going on the island. Prices for rentals vary depending on the watercraft of your choosing.

Vintgar Gorge

In the afternoon explore Vintgar Gorge. Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6km gorge in Triglav National Park. The river is lined with boardwalks that criss-cross the river and takes you past beautiful waterfalls. The landscape is stunning and the river water is so clear. This is definitely a highlight of my time in Bled.

Vintgar Gorge is about 5km from Bled, so my friend and I decided to walk to it. Which turned out to be an adventure in itself. Another option is to take the bus for €1 and in 10 minutes you’ll be at the starting point for your walk through the Gorge. Be sure to give yourself a few hours here as you’ll want to stop to take lots of photos!

Entrance fee prices have increased to  €10 for adults. For the most up to date information about hours and prices check it out here and use this link for the bus schedule .

Swim in Lake Bled

If you’ve got more time in your day, return to Lake Bled and simply relax. Find a spot to lay out your towel, swim in the water, maybe even take a lakeside nap. But go to bed early, because there’s an early morning wake up call tomorrow morning.

Day 3 in Slovenia: Bled & Bohinj

Sunrise hike over lake bled.

The hike up Ojstrica is a great short hike in Slovenia and a beautiful spot to take in sunrise over Lake Bled. The hike takes about one hour, so before you go to sleep, check the time for sunrise. Plan to begin your hike at least one hour before sunrise.

My friend and I started the hike at 4:30 am in total darkness, save for our iPhone flashlights. But we were the first people to reach the viewpoint and had it all to ourselves for a glorious 15 minutes. Afterward, lots of people started to show up to get their photo ops of the Insta-Famous Bled sunrise.

The hike begins just after the Camping Bled parking lot. There will be a small wooden sign that says Ojstrica and it’s basically a straight incline until you reach the viewpoint. It’s very important to wear sturdy shoes for this hike as it’s very rocky. No flip flops!

There’s also a second, higher, viewpoint called Mala Osojnica which if you have energy, you can do after this hike – especially if it gets crowded with people as I don’t think many people keep going to Mala Osojnica.

I know we didn’t.

After this hike and our walk to and from Vintgar Gorge the previous day, we headed back to our hostel for breakfast and a long nap!

Swim in Lake Bohinj

Lake Bohinj is the largest lake in Slovenia and it’s just a short bus trip away from Bled. From the center of town take the bus to Lake Bohinj, after a 30-minute ride you’ll arrive in a small town. The town looks similar to Bled but is much less crowded. You can get off in town or keep riding the bus to get closer to the Lake. We got off at a campground called Camp Zlatorog.

Here there are restrooms, a place to rent paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks, and some food. Although, I recommend bringing a little bit of a picnic with you. It’s very rocky, so find a place to get somewhat comfortable and chill. The water is incredibly refreshing on a hot summer’s day. You could easily spend an entire afternoon here, and definitely think that you should.

Just be sure to know the bus schedule back to Bled. There are places to stay in Bohinj should you decide you want to explore this area a bit longer as there are a number of hiking trails in this area as well.

If you’re visiting in the winter, there are a number of great ski resorts in Slovenia , including Vogel Ski Resort which is just a short drive from Lake Bohinj.

Where to Stay in Bled

There are plenty of options for places to stay in Bled. As mentioned a few times, be aware of the time of year you’re visiting as Bled gets incredibly popular and crowded from June to August. So it’s best to book in advance to ensure you have a place to stay. We stayed at a small hostel above a bar called Back Bar & Hostel that is run by a lovely woman and her family. There is a small kitchen and a balcony overlooking the Julian Alps.

There are plenty of B&Bs and hotels to stay in depending on your budget and style of travel. Check out the Booking map below to see what works for you.

Where to Eat in Bled

We didn’t eat out at all while we were in Bled. There is a small grocery store where we picked up items for a hearty breakfast and dinner. We snacked in between. But there are a plethora of places to eat in Bled, and supposedly there’s a famous cake to try. I don’t like cake so I didn’t go for it, but I did have some gelato lakeside which was fabulous.

Day 4 in Slovenia: Piran

Now you’ll go from swimming in Lake Bled to swimming in the Adriatic sea in Piran. Piran is a charming medieval seaside town located in between Italy and Croatia. It’s definitely a place you will get lost in the back alleys and find families cooking up a fresh seafood feast in the streets. And it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a slower pace of life.

How to Get to Piran

Overall it’s about a three-hour bus journey from Bled to Piran, with a connection in Ljubljana. When you arrive in Ljubljana you’ll have to buy a second bus ticket for Piran.

Start your first day in Piran at Tartini Square which is the center of Piran dedicated to the music composer, Tartini, who was born in this town. Here you can find a number of cafes and restaurants all worthy of a visit.

Tartini Square, St. George’s Church, & Old City Walls

From Tartini Square walk up to St. George’s church, a small church with excellent views of Piran and Trieste, Italy. You can pay a few Euro to walk up the bell tower of this church for a better vantage point if you wish.

After visiting St. George’s church, continue on up the hill to the old city walls. It costs €2 to walk these old city walls, and since I’d never been on any, I happily paid the small fee.

From the walls, you can look across to Venice and south to Croatia! Or just admire Piran’s terra-cotta rooftops, winding alleyways, and Tartini Square from above. This would also be an epic spot to catch the sunset!

Enjoy a Seafood Dinner

End your first day with a freshly caught seafood dinner without breaking the bank. I highly recommend eating at Fritolin Pri Cantini. You order your food at the window and find a free table. If there isn’t a free table, just ask to join one. A server from the neighboring bar will get your drink order and you’ll be set for a reasonably priced and freakin’ delicious meal.

Sunsets in Piran

Afterward, enjoy the sunset along the water and listen to live music at one of the spots in Tartini Square.

Day 5 in Slovenia: Piran

Today is all about relaxing! You can wander along the alleyways as you wish. Finding streets that intrigue you and take some photos. Always stop to chat with the locals.

I met a charming elderly gentleman on one of my strolls who started speaking to me in Slovene, when I said “sorry English” he, without hesitation, switched to speaking perfect English.

He and I chatted for quite a bit about world politics and news. I found it incredibly interesting getting the perspective of the US’ political climate from an older Slovene – it was truly enlightening the impact the US has on the rest of the world.

But I digress.

Once you’re done wandering, find a spot to swim! There aren’t really any beaches here, but there are concrete platforms with stairs leading into the warm and refreshing waters.

You could also walk towards Fiesa to find rocky beaches and fewer crowds for a quiet spot to swim and just relax the day away.

Use this final day in Piran to soak up the relaxed atmosphere of not just Piran, but all of Slovenia. Take these moments to reflect on your journey through Slovenia. The best of moments that are likely not the sweeping views, but those conversations you have with the people you meet along the way.

Have one more fresh seafood meal and gelato as the sun sets. When you’re ready, head back to the bus stop and on to your next destination. Whether that is home or somewhere else in this part of the world. I hope you enjoy the journey.

Where to Stay in Piran

I stayed in a cute hostel called Hostel Adriatic Piran . There I could do my laundry for free and it had a well-stocked kitchen. The WiFi was so-so, but I barely spent any time at the hostel.

Piran offers lots of options for hotels, hostels, and B&Bs. Check out your choices below.

If You Have More Time in Slovenia

I didn’t make it to these places due to budget and feeling a bit lazy, but I’ve heard from fellow travelers that the caves in Slovenia are ah-mazing. Postojna cave is the most popular , but I’ve heard equally good things about Skocjan caves. They would make an easy day trip from any of the locations listed on this Slovenia itinerary.

Also, for the adventurous side in you, you could spend a few days on the Soca River. Before I met up with my friend, she spent 5 days rafting, caving, zip lining, and hiking in the Soca River Valley. She said she had a pretty epic time, so if those activities are up your alley, then extend your Slovenia itinerary to include them!

Get More Help Planning Your Trip with These Books

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Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary: 7 Days in Slovenia

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

From the dramatic Julian Alps to glassy lakes and streams to charming coastal towns to lush forests to unique caves – teeny-weeny Slovenia has it all! Indeed, an essential bucket list addition . An outdoor lover’s haven, Slovenia is best explored by car. Our 7 Days in Slovenia Itinerary will help you explore the best of the country on a Slovenia road trip.

7-Day Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary: An Introduction

Our Slovenia itinerary perfectly fits families and couples who love road-tripping . Having said that, you need to rent a car in order to explore Slovenia. We love Discover Cars  when it comes to renting a car anywhere in the world. Read our guide to renting a car in Europe before you rent a car in Slovenia.

PS: You can easily combine a trip to Slovenia with Croatia , Austria , and Italy.

One Week in Slovenia Itinerary: Brief Slovenia One Week Itinerary

Read More: Tips for Planning a Perfect Road Trip

Detailed 7 Days in Slovenia Itinerary

Day 1: arrive in ljubljana | explore ljubljana.

Your Slovenian adventure begins in Ljubljana , the capital and the largest city of Slovenia. Just so you know, Slovenia’s largest city is one of the smallest European capitals.

Drop your luggage at your hotel and head out to discover the wonders of Ljubljana. Choose to stay in the center of the city so it’s easy to explore the major attractions on foot.

We stayed at Antiq Palace . It’s a charming little luxury hotel tucked in a quiet spot in the heart of the city and is rated highly for its location and services.

Strolling the charming streets of Ljubljana is the best way to take in the vibe of the city. Stop by Prešeren Square , Franciscan Church of the Annunciation , Cathedral of St. Nicholas , Triple Bridge , Butcher’s Bridge , Dragon Bridge , and Stari Trg .

Have coffee and cake at Lolita – Cankarjevo Nabrezje.

Now take a funicular or urban electric train to Ljubljana Castle or you can also walk up the hill. Whatever way you choose to reach the castle, you are sure to be rewarded with stunning views.

Spend an hour or so exploring the castle grounds before you head to Restavracija Strelec for lunch.

For late afternoon, stroll through or relax at beautiful Tivoli Park . You can choose to visit one of the many amazing museums in Ljubljana. We recommend the House of Experiments if you’re traveling with kids.

And, yes climb the famous skyscraper, Neboticnik  for the best views over Ljubljana.

End your day with dinner and drinks at Monstera Bistro .

PS: If you missed a few places on your Ljubljana itinerary , you can cover those on your last day as you’re returning to the capital for your flight back home.

Where to stay in Ljubljana?

Luxury accommodation: Grand Hotel Union | Antiq Palace Mid-Range accommodation: Adora Hotel Budget accommodation: City Hotel Ljubljana

Read Next: Best Things to do in Ljubljana

Day 2: Visit Bled | Explore Kranj on the way

A tiny island right in the heart of a bluish-blue lake – that’s Bled , Slovenia’s poster child! Today, you’re going to drive to Bled. The drive is short (45 minutes) and beautiful.

We stopped by Kranj , one of the most unexplored places in Europe. Kranj is small yet mighty. You can explore the town in less than 2 hours.

Read More: A Complete Guide to Kranj, Slovenia

PS: You can also choose Skofja Loka , Kamnik , or Radovlijica over Kranj. Or you can explore all of them if you’ve time.

Once in Bled, walk around the lake , visit Bled Castle and Bled Island , take a tour of the lake by a pletna or rowboat , rent a kayak , or go stand-up paddleboarding or swim in the lake , hike Mala Osojnica for the best views of the lake , or sample the famous Kremsnita (Bled Cream Cake.)

The best places to try Bled Cream Cake are Park Hotel and Cafe Belvedere .

Where to stay in Bled? Luxury accommodation: Vila Bled Mid-Range accommodation: Old Bled House Budget accommodation: STATUS Apartments

Must Read: Best Things to do in Bled, Slovenia

Day 3: Vintgar Gorge | Lake Bohinj

One of the best natural attractions in Slovenia and the first mountain gorge in Slovenia that’s opened to the public, Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6 km canyon crafted by the Radovna River in the Triglav National Park. Vintgar Gorge is one of the easiest hikes in Triglav National Park . A beautiful trail involves walking over the wooden walkways and bridges called Žumer Galleries along and across the glassy Radovna River . Šum waterfall at the end of the trail is a sight to behold. It takes a little less than an hour to walk the entire length of the gorge.

PS: Plan to arrive as soon as the site opens to avoid the tourist crowds. Plus, you’ll have enough time to explore Lake Bohinj, your next stop.

Enjoy the hearty lunch at Gostilna Vintgar before you head for Lake Bohinj.

Essential Reading: An Ultimate Guide to Vintgar Gorge, Slovenia

Just about 30 minutes away from Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj is another beautiful Slovenian lake located in the Bohinj Valley . While you are here, explore a little charming town on the bank of Lake Bohinj, Ribcev Laz , hike Mostnica Gorge , take an Instagram-worthy pic at Voglom pier , ride the Vogel Cable Car , visit St. John Baptist Church , hike the Savica waterfall , indulge in water sports at Lake Bohinj , and walk along lake Bohinj .

For dinner, we recommend Foksner or Pizzeria Pr’Košnik or Restaurant Triglav Bohinj .

Day 4: Soča Valley Road Trip

A road trip through Soča Valley is the stuff dreams are made of. It’s one of the most beautiful road trips in Europe .

Whooshing around the 50 hairpin bends, up and over the Vršič Pass , along the ever-changing Soca river , climbing 5,285 feet in 193 km (120 miles) – It’s utterly thrilling and beautiful. Lake Jasna in Kranjska Gora , Bovec , Kobarid , and Tolmin Gorge are some of the lovely stopovers along the way.

Stop for lunch at Kuhnjca lokalnih dobrot in Bovec or Hisa Franko in Kobarid.

You can even drive up to Slovenia’s highest mountain road, Mangart Saddle , or the Mangart Pass . It serves as a starting point for hiking Mount Mangart.

Soča Valley is a famous adventure sports destination and thus, you can indulge in so many adventurous activities like biking, hiking, zip-lining, paragliding, white water rafting, kayaking , bungy jumping, fishing…you name it!

Day 5: Predjama Castle, Postojna, and Škocjan Caves

The world’s largest cave castle, Predjama Castle is a little over an hour’s drive from Bled. You’ll drive past Ljubljana.

Postojna Cave, well-known as the  Queen of Caves , is an unusual karst cave. A 90-minute historic train journey takes you to the 24-kilometer-long underground network of galleries, chambers, and corridors. The cave, at 10 °C temperature is wet and chilly all through the year so, make sure to dress appropriately.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Škocjan Cave is about half an hour away from Postojna. It’s a unique cave system carved out by the Reka River. A 2-hour guided tour (Through the Underground Canyon) takes you through the cave.

The second tour that follows the 2 km long path of the Reka River called Following the Reka River Underground is available from April to October .

Once you’re done with the day’s exploration, head to Piran for a night’s stay. Piran is about a 40-minute drive from Škocjan.

Where to stay in Piran?

Luxury accommodation: Hotel Piran | Casa Al Porto Antico Mid-Range accommodation: MEMENTO B&B Piran Budget accommodation: Apartments Vela

Day 6: Bled to Piran | Explore Piran

A tiny beautiful town, best known for its pier and Venetian Gothic architecture, along the Adriatic coast that sits at the tip of a tapered peninsula, Piran is pure love. No wonder it’s counted among some of the most beautiful places in Slovenia . Walk th e Old Town walls , stroll the charming winding alleyways , climb the Bell Tower to drink in the gorgeous views, and enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the ocean.

PS: If time and energy permit, you can cram a Nature Park Strunjan (12 minutes drive from Piran) or/and a port city of Koper (24 minutes drive from Piran) into your Slovenia travel itinerary.

You can choose to spend the night in Piran or plan to head back to Ljubljana the same day. It all depends on your flight schedule. Ljubljana is 122 km (1 hour 30 minutes drive) from Piran.

Day 7: Head Back to Ljubljana | Fly Back Home

An easy and short drive from Piran will take you to Ljubljana. The day is at leisure. You can explore the sights you missed on the first day in Ljubljana, can indulge in last-minute shopping, or can relax as you wait for a flight back home.

Make sure to return your rental car on time to avoid last-minute hassles.

That’s it! Hope our 1 week in Slovenia road trip itinerary helps you craft yours in a jiffy. If you’ve any queries about this 7 day Slovenia itinerary, comment below and we’ll be happy to answer 🙂

Recommended Reading: Renting a Car in Europe Schengen Visa for Europe How to Plan a Trip to Europe 7 Magical Places to Visit in Slovenia A First Timer’s Guide to Ljubljana, Slovenia Best Things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia Vintgar Gorge, Slovenia Lake Bled, Slovenia Kranj, Slovenia

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11 things to know before booking a trip to Slovenia

May 2, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan the perfect trip to Slovenia with these tips on booking, packing and activities © Olesya Baron / Shutterstock

I’ve been writing about Slovenia for Lonely Planet now for more than a decade.

On every trip, I’ve found Slovenians to be highly welcoming and proud of their country, particularly of Slovenia’s commitment to the environment and sustainability. English is widely spoken and you’re unlikely to have any problems hitting the ground running.

That said, a little local knowledge can help grease the wheels and make a trip to this beautiful country more rewarding and pleasurable. Here are some ideas and tips for how to prepare before you get there.

1. Book hotels and popular restaurants well in advance

By now, word has traveled far and wide about Slovenia’s immense physical beauty and its emerging rep as a high-end foodie destination. That means it’s no longer possible simply to turn up and expect to find accommodation bargains or tables at top restaurants. Ljubljana is popular year-round, so start your room hunt the moment you decide to visit. The same goes for Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj and the towns and resorts along the country’s Adriatic coastline. These all can get full to bursting in high season (July and August).

Top Slovenian chefs like Ana Roš, and her Michelin-starred restaurant Hiša Franko in Kobarid, have got gourmands around the world salivating at the very prospect of visiting the country. Book any restaurant with a whiff of foodie cred at least a month in advance.

2. Tack on an extra couple of days to your trip

Many travelers, regrettably, allocate just a long weekend or perhaps a week at most here. That may be enough time to get a sense of Ljubljana and possibly make a side trip to Lake Bled or the Adriatic coast, but it’s not enough for taking in all the sights Slovenia has to offer. The country may be small, but it packs in tremendous geographic diversity. After you’ve hit the main highlights, consider at minimum visiting the Soča Valley , the Goriška Brda wine communities, and the spectacular caves and landscapes of the Karst Region.

And certainly don’t overlook the east of the country, around cities like Maribor and Ptuj, which sees far fewer visitors than the Alpine and coastal regions of the west. In interacting with many, many travelers over the years, I’ve never once heard a visitor on returning home say they wished they’d planned to spend fewer days here.

Exploring Slovenia by car or bike? Here are the top road-trip routes

3. Call ahead when visiting wineries

A visit to a Slovenian winery, with a chance to meet the winemakers and sample the grape, is a highlight of any visit to the country. Prime tasting areas include Goriška Brda, Metlika, Brežice, Maribor, and many others. That said, resist the temptation simply to pull up at a winery gate and expect a tasting (as you might in other countries). It’s better to phone in advance or book a tasting over the winery website.

4. Take advantage of discount cards

Travelers are often reluctant to invest in city tourism cards out of skepticism for how much money they’ll actually save. In Slovenia, that's a mistake, as these cards can represent good value. The Ljubljana Card , sold at tourist information centers, includes free entry to many museums as well as unlimited travel on city buses, a free funicular to Ljubljana Castle , and bus transfer to Ljubljana Airport.

Additionally, students and people over 65 often qualify for discounted admission at museums and other attractions. When traveling with kids, look out for special “family” admission prices for up to two adults and two children.

5. Learn some Slovenian phrases

Slovenians are polyglots. In addition to English, many people speak German and Italian. However, it doesn’t hurt at all (and may even open some doors) if you can muster a few common phrases in Slovenian. Start off with dober dan , meaning “good day.” Prosim means “please,” and hvala is the way to say ”thank you.”

6. Get chatting with locals

Many Slovenians can be reserved in their daily interactions, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t friendly. Feel free to say hello to or ask questions of anyone you might meet. Most people will happily engage and pass along helpful information. Making contact goes beyond merely saying hi; it’s a great way to learn about the country. Don’t be surprised if a casual greeting leads to a longer chat over beer, coffee or schnapps. It’s all part of the culture.

7. Pack clothes for the outdoors

Slovenians enjoy getting out into the fresh air. Even if you’re just planning a city break in Ljubljana, you never know when you might get tempted by or pulled out on a hike. That means it’s best to bring along comfortable walking shoes (or boots if you’re planning on spending time in the higher elevations) as well as rain gear or a windbreaker (or whatever might be appropriate for the season). That said, don’t worry about packing too many fancy clothes. Slovenians aren’t overly dogmatic about fashion. When in doubt, go smart casual; even the most famous restaurants in the country keep it pretty chill.

8. Walk or cycle when you can

Slovenians love their cars, but wherever possible they often prefer to walk, hike or bike (rather than simply jump behind the wheel). It helps that well-marked walking and cycling trails crisscross just about every city, town and region in the land. Moving around on your own power isn't just a good way to keep fit, it's often faster and more convenient than waiting for public transportation . Ljubljana is a prime cycling territory, but pedestrians need to watch out so that they don't accidently walk into a designated cycling lane. That’s sure to earn a shrill bicycle bell and, potentially, a stiff word or two.

9. Be aware of ticks in open areas

Like much of Central Europe, Slovenia's forests and grasslands are filled with ticks. On hikes or treks, use repellents and cover up exposed skin. Always check your legs and arms after any prolonged hike or camping in the open air. Ticks can carry two serious diseases: tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease. The latter can sometimes be treated with antibiotics; the former is rarer but can only be avoided by prior vaccination. Mosquitoes can also be an annoyance around lakes and ponds in warmer months. Bring a good mosquito repellent just in case.

Looking to get outside? Here are our top hiking routes in Slovenia

10. Drive with caution in winter

Winters often bring treacherous ice and snow to Slovenian roadways, particularly in higher-elevation areas. Indeed, from November to April, many roads may be closed or impassable. These include the country's highest alpine circuit, the 1611m (5285ft)  Vršič Pass , which typically shuts down in late October and reopens only in late April.  The Traffic Information Center website has updated information on nationwide road hazards, closures and weather delays.

11. Know your limits before hitting the trails

Sadly, every tourist season brings news of a tragic accident, where someone misjudges the risks and takes unnecessary chances. While some Slovenian trekking routes are well-trodden – the country has more than 9000km (5590 miles) of trails – it's very easy to get off the beaten path, particularly at higher elevations.

It goes without saying (but it's worth repeating): always make sure you’re carrying the right equipment and be sure to seek local guidance before setting out. Consider hiring a local guide if in doubt. Let people know where you’re going and be mindful of changing weather conditions. If you have more-ambitious plans to tackle the multiple via ferrata  routes (trails with permanent cables and ladders), bring along your own gear, like harnesses, lanyards, gloves and helmets. In any emergency on the trails, contact the Mountain Rescue Association of Slovenia (GRZS) by dialing 112.

This article was first published Mar 5, 2022 and updated May 2, 2024.

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SLOVENIA TRAVEL GUIDE: Ljubljana Itinerary & Budget

A lot of things that could go wrong during our Slovenia trip did go wrong. Rain poured for most of our stay. Our flight out of the country was canceled a day before, ruining our route and itinerary.

Yet, when we look back and think about our time in Slovenia, we can’t help but smile. Of all the countries we visited on our most recent Euro trip, we could say definitively that this surprised us the most. There were things that didn’t go as planned, but none of them mattered. None of them overpowered Slovenia’s sheer beauty.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING SLOVENIA

Slovenia is a mountainous and forested country where Slavic, Romance, and Germanic cultures meet: surrounded by Italy, Austria, Hungary, Croatia and the Adriatic Sea.

In the 1st century BC, the area where modern-day Slovenia lies was conquered by the Romans. At its heart was the city of Emona. It then became a territory of several empires: the Byzantine, Carolingian, and the Austro-Hungarian, to name a few. In 1918, it became a part of Yugoslavia, which eventually collapsed. Slovenia was the first to break away in 1991. The city of Ljubljana , which stands at the site of ancient Emona , became the capital.

Ljubljana is probably not the first to come to mind when we think about European cities. Home to fewer than 300,000 residents, it is one of the smallest capitals on the continent. But that’s what makes this picturesque city such a charming destination. It may not have a globally recognizable landmark like the Eiffel Tower or Colosseum, but you’ll hardly find massive crowds and tourist traps either. Ljubljana offers a more laid-back, easygoing experience.

Here are more bits you might want to know about Ljubljana:

• Location: Ljubljana is in Slovenia. Coordinates: 46°03′20″N 14°30′30″E.
• Time Zone: UTC+1 (Central European Time). Ljubljana is 7 hours behind the Philippines, Singapore or Malaysia; and 8 hours behind Japan. However, daylight saving time is in effect from the last Sunday of March until the last Sunday of October, which puts it at UTC+2, only 6 hours behind PH, SG, and MY.
• Language: Slovene (Slovenian) is the official language. But most can understand or speak English.
• Currency: Euro (EUR, €). €1 is roughly USD 1.18, SGD 1.6, PHP 57.25 (as of September 2020)
• Modes of Payment: Many establishments accept credit cards, but most still prefer cash.

WHERE TO STAY IN SLOVENIA

If it’s your first time in Slovenia and you only have a few days, it’s best to stay in Ljubljana, the capital. Slovenia is small — one of the smallest European states — so it’s easy to get from one end to another in a day.

Ljubljana is strategically and conveniently located at the center so most travelers use it as their base. It’s also where you’ll find the most transportation and tour options to explore other parts of the country.

BEST AREA TO STAY IN LJUBLJANA

Ljubljana is divided into 17 districts. For tourists, however, the most important is the Center District , where you’ll find most of the key points of interest including the main train and bus stations.

The Ljubljanica River cuts across the Center District. If you look at the map, you’ll find that the river makes a bend in the middle. This is the tourism and historical core of the city. As a tourist, you’ll probably spend most of your time here.

Many publications refer to the area surrounding the bend in general as the Old Town. But some sources further split this area into two: Old Town and City Center.

• Old Town – the area south and east of the river, in the shadow of the Ljubljana Castle, which stands proudly on a hill.
• City Center – north and west of the river, where most hotels, hostels, restaurants, and bars are located.

Although there are a lot of budget accommodations in other districts (like Trnovo), these two areas, in my opinion, are the most ideal base when exploring Ljubljana.

Which is better? Both the Old Town and the City Center have plenty of dining and lodging options. Both are accessible from each other via the many bridges that straddle the river. To be honest, you wouldn’t really feel the distinction between these two areas.

But if I have to choose, I’d go for the City Center. It has slightly more accommodations. And tour companies usually pick up or meet up with guests on this side of the river.

TOP LJUBLJANA HOSTELS

• NEW! Hostel Metro Ljubljana. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hostel Zeppelin. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hostel Tresor. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hostel 24. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hostel Celica Art. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Fluxus Hostel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

TOP APARTMENTS & HOTELS IN LJUBLJANA

• Adora Apartments and Rooms. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Urban Hotel Ljubljana. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Hotel Mrak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Apartment Megapolis. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Apartment Nuk. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• AB Ljubljana – The Princess Castle Triplex. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Apartments Maria. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Ljubljana Hotels!

HOW TO GET TO LJUBLJANA

The Ljubljana Joze Pucnik Airport (LJU) is the city’s international airport. It’s often referred to simply as Ljubljana Airport and sometimes Brnik Airport , which is its previous name.

Even though it’s Slovenia’s largest airport, the flight options here are limited. It used to be the hub of Adria Airways , which was the country’s flag carrier until 2019, when it filed for bankruptcy. Today, airlines that operate here include EasyJet, Air France, Air Serbia, Lufthansa, Transavia, and Wizz Air, connecting Slovenia to mostly European cities.

However, according to some of the locals we met, when they need to fly to destinations not linked to Ljubljana Airport, they head for the Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) in Italy, which is easily accessible from Ljubljana. So yes, you can also fly to Venice Airport to reach Slovenia.

Ljubljana Airport to City Center

Ljubljana Airport is located around 30 km north of the city center, 30 minutes by car or 45 minutes by bus. Here are your options:

• BY PUBLIC BUS The cheapest option. Take Public Bus #28 at the airport to Ljubljana’s main bus station. Schedule: Monday-Friday, one bus at the top of every hour from 5am to 8pm; Saturday, Sunday and holidays, at 7am and every two hours from 10am to 8pm. Fare: 4.10 €. You can buy tickets from the driver. Travel time: 45 minutes
• BY SHUTTLE Two shuttle companies can take you to the city center from the airport: GoOpti and Nomago. The former gives your the option to book board a shared vehicle or a private service. Schedule: GoOpti , Nomago GoOpti Fare: shared, 17€ per person; private, 29€. Nomago Fare: 10€ per person Travel time: 30-45 minutes

There are also taxis available for those in a hurry or have extra to spend.

Visitors can also take buses and shuttles to other cities in Slovenia.

Venice Airport to Ljubljana

Ljubljana can also easily be reached from Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) , which is 230 km away! It’s much more connected than Ljubljana Airport, serving more flights to and from more cities around the world.

FlixBus has direct buses from Venice Airport to Ljubljana Bus Station at the city center. Travel time is around 3.5 hours. Fare is from 13€ to 36€, depending on how early you book.

✅ CHECK UPDATED SCHEDULE & RATES HERE!

FlixBus also connects Ljubljana to other European cities. Whether you’re coming from Austria, Germany, Italy, Hungary, Switzerland or Croatia, you can book a direct trip to Ljubljana. We have experienced traveling from Bologna straight to Ljubljana and it was a pleasant experience!

Here are the usual Flixbus fare and travel time estimates per route.

• Venice to Ljubljana. Direct. Travel time: 4 hours. Fare: 13.99€ to 29.99€.
• Bologna to Ljubljana. Direct trips available but most involve transfer in Venice. Travel time: 6 hours, direct; up to 10 hours, with transfer. Fare: 19.99€ to 50€.
• Vienna to Ljubljana. Direct. Travel time: 5 to 5.5 hours. Fare: 29.99€ to 39.99€.
• Salzburg to Ljubljana. Direct. Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours. Fare: 17.99€ to 49.99€.
• Munich to Ljubljana. Direct. Travel time: 5 to 6.5 hours. Fare: 18.99€ to 35.99€.
• Zurich to Ljubljana. Direct available. But most buses entail a Munich transfer. Travel time: 10 hours, direct; up to 12 hours, with transfer. Fare: 29.99€ to 79.99€.
• Budapest to Ljubljana. Direct. Travel time: 6 to 6.5 hours. Fare: 25.99€ to 39.99€.
• Zagreb to Ljubljana. Direct. Travel time: 2.5 hours. Fare: 8.99€ to 25.99€.
• Split to Ljubljana. Direct. Travel time: 8 to 11 hours. Fare: 19.99€ to 59.99€.

✅ CHECK FLIXBUS SCHEDULE & RATES HERE!

Ljubljana is also linked to other cities in Slovenia and neighboring countries by railway. The main train station is located on the northern edge of the Center District, just beside the Bus Station.

Some of the major cities that are directly connected by train to Ljubljana are: Zagreb, Croatia; Salzburg and Vienna, Austria; Munich and Frankfurt, Germany; Belgrade, Serbia; and Zurich, Switzerland.

There are no direct connections from Italy. If you’re coming from Italy, the most common way of reaching Slovenia is by taking the train to Venice or Trieste, and then making a bus transfer to Ljubljana.

Search for Train Tickets Here!

How to get around ljubljana.

I don’t think I’ve ever been to any European capital that is more walkable than Ljubljana. Not only is the city generally small and safe, much of it is also a pedestrian-only zone, covering the Old Town and surrounding areas. This is in line with the local government’s bid to becoming the greenest city in the world. It makes the city perfect for pleasant, relaxing strolls!

If your itinerary focuses on the city center, it is definitely possible to cover everything on foot and not take any form of transportation at all. But here are some other options:

• By Bicycle. Bikes are allowed within the Pedestrian Zone. You can rent one from the Slovenian Tourist Information Center or from one of the hostels or hotels offering a rental service. Rate is usually 5€ per day.
• By Electric Car (Kavalir). Within the Pedestrian Zone run electric-powered cars called “kavalir”. This is a FREE service primarily for the elderly and those with reduced mobility, regardless of whether they’re locals or tourists. Each vehicle can accommodate up to 5 passengers. If you have health or mobility issues, you can hail one on the streets. Available daily from 6am to 10pm.
• By Electric Train (Urban). Aside from kavalir, another electric-powered vehicle roaming the historical core is the “Urban”, a train that can take you to the key tourist spots in the city from the City Hall and Ljubljana Castle to Krakovo and back to Old Town. A roundtrip takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. Day ticket costs 8€ for adults.
• By City Bus. Ljubljana has 26 bus lines, most of which run between 5am and 10:30pm. But there are also a few night buses. To use the bus system, you need to purchase an Urbana card from key bus stops or newspaper agents. The card costs 2€ but you should top up if you’re gonna use it multiple times. Upon boarding, scan the card on the reader. Fare is 1.30€, valid for unlimited rides within 90 minutes from the first scan.

Ljubljana Card (Pass)

If you have a jam-packed itinerary, you might want to consider getting a Ljubljana Card, which will allow you unlimited access to the city buses, FREE airport bus transfer, and FREE admission to over 20 attractions in the city, among others.

Here are some of the perks of having this card:

• FREE entrance to 20+ attractions including Plečnik House, Snovik Thermal Spa, Ljubljana Zoo, National Museum of Slovenia, National Gallery, and several other museums.
• FREE funicular ride to Ljubljana Castle
• FREE guided city tour
• FREE airport bus transfer
• FREE travel on public transport
• FREE tourist boat cruise on Ljubljanica river
• FREE 4-hour bicycle hire
• FREE wifi for 24 hours

The card comes in three variants. Here are the regular prices:

• 24-hour card: 31€
• 48-hour card: 39€
• 72-hour card: 45€

You can get a slight discount if you purchase this card from Klook!

✅ GET DISCOUNTED CARD HERE!

THINGS TO DO IN LJUBLJANA

Old town walking tour.

Ljubljana’s historical center is dotted with several interesting structures! Here you’ll find beautiful buildings from a bygone era. Of course, you can also pull a DIY (do-it-yourself). But the great thing about joining a guided tour is you get to learn more about the storied past of not just Ljubljana but also Slovenia as you walk down the alleys and across the squares.

Some of the common stops include:

• Ljubljana Cathedral
• Town Hall (Mestna hiša )
• Triple Bridge
• Preseren Square
• Congress and Republic Squares
• Dragon Bridge
• Central Market

You can join a FREE walking tour or a paid one. In case you’re not familiar, free walking tours are free only in theory. In practice, you are expected to give a tip at the end, which is the only way the guides can make some money. The tip doesn’t need to be big; most usually give 5€ each. But if the guide did an exceptional job, we always add more.

We joined the classic tour organized by Ljubljana Free Tour . Schedule: Daily 11am. In some months, additional tours are added in the afternoon. Meetup point: Prešeren Square

We enjoyed the tour. The only comment we had is that the group was big so it was hard to hear sometimes.

If you want a tour with a smaller group, you can join a paid tour instead. The tour offered by Klook has an additional stop at Ljubljana Castle, including roundtrip funicular rides.

Ljubljana Castle

The Ljubljana Castle is probably the city’s most famous landmark. Its roots can be traced back to the 11th century. Perched on top of a 375-meter hill, this historic site offers a great view of the downtown Ljubljana. There are three main ways to climb to the castle:

• By hiking. You can do this independently or join a group tour.
• By Urban tourist train. We explained this in the How to Get Around section above. Fare: 8€.
• By funicular. Get to the funicular station at the base of the hill, near the Central Market. The ride will take you up and into the castle. Fare: one-way, 2.20€; roundtrip, 4€.

Opening hours: 10am-10pm.

You can explore the castle grounds FREE of charge. But to enter the watchtower, Chapel of St. George, Museum of Puppets, or the Slovenian History Exhibition, you need to purchase a ticket.

The regular ticket costs 13€, which already includes roundtrip funicular ride and access to the castle’s viewing tower, Virtual Castle, Museum of Puppetry, and Slovenian History Exhibition.

You also need to pay more to enjoy some of the other special attractions inside like the Escape Castle (escape game), Behind Bars Guided Tour or the Time Machine Guided Tour. See the rates for other tickets here!

Ljubljanica River Cruise

Another way of sightseeing is by joining the river cruise. The journey takes 45 minutes, ensuring a slow and relaxed pace. It’s a no-sweat way to explore and enjoy the beautiful sights of the old town.

You have two options for the vessel: a tourist boat and a wooden boat.

• Tourist boat , which accommodate up to 32 passengers. In winter, the boat is heated for comfort. Schedule: Daily. April-November, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, 5pm, 6pm, 7pm, 8pm; November-March, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm. Boarding spot: Ribji trg pier, close to the Triple Bridge
• Wooden boat , which is named after the river, Ljubljanica. Made of larch wood, it can ferry up to 48 pax. Schedule: Daily, every hour from 11am to 5pm. Boarding spot: Breg embankment pier

Price: 10€, adult; 5€, children 4-12 yo

Stand-up Paddleboarding

If you’re up for some excitement and adventure, you can also go stand-up paddleboarding down the Ljubljanica River!

Don’t worry if you don’t have the skills (yet)! The calm waters of the Ljubljanica makes it an ideal playground for first-timers! Each session starts with an introductory course that will teach you the basics. You’ll then join your instructor as you paddle your way across the city center. Each booking also comes with photos.

Schedule: Twice a day. One in the morning (usually 9 or 10am, depending on season) and one in the afternoon (5 or 6pm). Price: 39€, inclusive of instructor fee, equipment rental, and photos. Departure point: Špica Cafe

Ljubljana is at the crossroads of Slavic, Germanic, and Romance cultures, which makes its cuisine pretty eclectic! You’ll find Pannonian, Mediterranean, Balkan, Alpine and other international dishes at the dozens of restaurants scattered around the city. This mixture provides foodies a gastronomic adventure during their visit.

Of course, you can totally do this on your own. But if you want to learn more about Slovenia’s food culture, it’s best to join a guided tour. A guided food tour will take you to a number of restaurants where you’ll sample various dishes and wines. The guide will share information, insights and stories to enrich your experience.

Museum Hopping

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a history buff, you’ll probably find a museum worthy of your time in Ljubljana! Here are some of the museums you might want to check out.

• National Museum of Slovenia It has two sites: Muzejska and Metelkova Hours open: Daily 10am-6pm (Thursdays 10am-8pm) Closed: Some holidays Entrance fee: 6€ for 1 site, 8.5€ for 2 sites
• Ljubljana National Gallery Hours open: Tuesdays–Sundays 10am-6pm Closed: Mondays and some holidays Entrance fee: 8€
• The Museum of Architecture and Design Ljubljana Hours open: Tuesdays–Sundays 10am-6pm; Thursdays 10am-8pm. Closed: Mondays and some holidays Entrance fee: 5€
• Museum of Modern Art Hours open: Tuesdays–Sundays 10am-6pm Closed: Mondays and some holidays Entrance fee: 5€
• National Museum of Contemporary History Hours open: Tuesdays-Sundays 10am-6pm (Thursdays 10am-8pm) Closed: Mondays and some holidays Entrance fee: 5€
• Slovenian Museum of Natural History Hours open: Daily 10am-6pm (Thursdays 10am-8pm) Closed: Some holidays Entrance fee: 4€

Other Ljubljana Attractions

There are several other places in the city that may be worthy of your time including the following:

• The Central Market lies on the southern bank of the Ljubljanica, at the foot of the Dragon Bridge. It’s the place to go for local produce and street eats. For the longest time, it’s also where people meet and socialize. Today, the market comprises an open-air section and covered section. On one side, you’ll see a colonnaded lane of food stalls. That building was designed by Jože Plečnik. Hours open: Covered section, Monday-Friday 7am-4pm, Saturday 7am-2pm; Open-air section, Monday-Saturday 6am-4pm (until 6pm in summer). Closed: Sundays and holidays
• House of Illusions , which has 40 exhibits that will trick your brain and put your senses to a test. You’ll encounter holograms, puzzles, and several mind-bending spaces like the Mirror Room, the Upside Down Room, and the Vortex Tunnel. Hours open: Daily 9am-9pm Entrance fee: 9.95€ Reserve a ticket here!
• Krakovo is a trendy neighborhood south of the Old Town and part of Trnovo district. They say that Krakovo is to Ljubljana as Montmarte is to Paris. It used to be a small suburban village but became part of the city as it expanded. Quieter than the city center, you can spend half a day at its cafes and parks or admire the postcard-worthy two-story cottages.
• Tivoli Park is the largest park in Ljubljana, painting the vast area west of the city center green. It was designed by Jean Blanchard in 1813, when the city was still a part of the French Illyrian Provinces. Within the park you’ll find the Tivoli Castle, a pond, two indoor sport arenas, gardens and several notable sculptures. Also inside the park is Cekin Mansion, which houses the Museum of Contemporary History of Slovenia.
• The Preseren Square and the Triple Bridge lie adjacent to each other. The square’s current appearance dates back to the 17th century. It is a hub that connects various parts of the old town and leads to many of the historic center’s attractions. The Triple Bridge has become the main icon and is the heart of all touristic activities in the city.

We created a separate post for more attractions here: PLACES TO VISIT IN LJUBLJANA!

Day Trips from Ljubljana

In this section, we’ll share a few of most popular day trip destinations from Ljubljana. You can visit the first two items in a day by booking a tour that has all these in the itinerary. We booked with Klook — the Best of Slovenia Tour, which covers all Lake Bled, Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave — and had a fantastic time. It was one of the best day tours we had in Europe ever.

If you don’t have the time or you want a slower pace, you can also visit them individually. We provided the links to separate tours per spot.

This lake at the foot of the Julian Alps is a premier tourist destination. In the middle of the lake is a picturesque island where the Assumption of Mary Church stands. The history of the church goes all the way back to the 9th century, but the current structure you see was only built in the 17th century. To get there, board a traditional canoe!

Walk around the lake and check out different viewpoints to see the attractions from various perspectives. Overlooking the lake is Bled Castle, the oldest in the country, dating back to the 11th century. It offers the best view of the island. You can also dig into a slice of a local confection called kremšnita , a vanilla and custard cream cake topped with crispy pastry and a dusting of powdered sugar.

You can travel by bus from Ljubljana to Bled. Fare: 7.80€, one way.

However, to make the trip more enlightening, you may join a group tour. Many tourists also visit other destinations in the country within the same day. Book a tour with Klook to save time and effort in reaching these destinations and to have a stress-free day out.

Predjama Castle

Because of their proximity to each other, the Predjama Castle and the Postojna Cave are often bundled together by tour operators.

The Predjama Castle is a massive structure that was built in the mouth of a cave, making it almost impregnable. It’s not sure when it was constructed, but it was already documented as early as 1274. Legend has it that it became the seat of power of Erasmus of Lueg, a robber knight who killed an army commander. According to our guide, he’s like a Robinhood figure, but there aren’t that many similarities, IMO. But the castle is amazing! It’s also rumored to be haunted, so if you’re into spooky tales, pay a visit.

If you can’t do the full-day Slovenia tour, you can visit Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave on a half-day tour from Ljubljana!

Postojna Cave

Measuring over 24,000 meters, the Postojna Cave is the second longest cave system in Slovenia. It’s definitely, the biggest cave we’ve had the honor of stepping into. It’s so huge that there is a railway system inside, ferrying visitors to the out-of-this-world spots like the Concert Hall and the Big Mountain Hall.

Carved by the Pivka River over millions and millions of years, this karst cave is filled with rock formations like Brilliant , a marvelous five-meter stalagmite which has become the symbol for the cave; and the thousands of spaghetti , thin white noodle-like stalactites that adorn the ceiling of one of the halls.

You can visit Postojna Cave on your own by public transportation. Bus fare: 6€.

You can also join a Predjama Castle + Postojna Cave combo tour!

Škocjan Caves and Piran Coast

One of the most important cave systems in the world, the Škocjan Caves has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its sheer natural beauty, historical and cultural significance, and ecological value. This karst world has one of the world’s biggest underground canyons, nurturing a unique ecosystem.

This Klook tour also covers a stop at Piran, a charming coastal town with beautiful medieval era buildings. You’ll also visit other attractions such as the Predjama Castle and the Lipica Stud Farm.

Other Day Tours from Ljubljana

For more day trip options, we compiled some of the best destinations in Slovenia in another post. You can find it here: BEST SLOVENIA DESTINATIONS!

SAMPLE LJUBLJANA ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 4-day 3-night Slovenia itinerary. This assumes you’ll be spending your nights in Ljubljana and will just do a day trip to other destinations in the country. Go ahead and tweak this to match your schedule and other preferences.

This also assumes you’ll be coming from another European city by bus or by train, so airfare and airport transfers are not included in the budget breakdown.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL & TIVOLI PARK 01:30 pm – Arrival at Ljubljana Station 01:40 pm – Walk to hotel 02:00 pm – Hotel check-in – Settle tourist tax, 9.39€ 02:30 pm – Late lunch, 10€ 03:20 pm – Walk to Tivoli Park 04:00 pm – Tivoli Park 07:30 pm – Grocery shopping, 20€ 08:30 pm – Dinner at hotel 09:30 pm – Lights out *Best if you could catch the sunset

DAY 2: LJUBLJANA TOUR 09:00 am – Wake up, breakfast 10:00 am – River cruise, 10€ 11:00 am – Free walking tour, tip: 5€ 02:30 pm – Lunch, 10€ 04:30 pm – Ljubljana Castle* (via funicular), 13€ 06:00 pm – Walk around Old Town 07:30 pm – Dinner, 10€ 09:00 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 4 – DEPARTURE 08:30 am – Pack up 10:30 am – Early check out, leave bags 11:00 am – Early lunch, 10€ 12:00 pm – Leave for station for next city

Let’s say that you’re able to book a bed or room for 30€ per person per night. In this case, the itinerary above will set you back at least 380€ (USD 448, SGD 614, PHP 21,800) per person, excluding airfare, airport taxes and visa fees but including accommodations and a little allowance for future price movements and small miscellaneous purchases.

Note that the bulk of it is spent on the Slovenia Day Tour, which took up 40% of the budget. I included this tour because it will allow you to visit the most sites in the country in a day. But if you’re on a shoestring, you can choose just one or two destinations and take the bus. This will significantly reduce the total cost.

As mentioned, we didn’t include the train or plane fare going to and out of Ljubljana because I don’t know where you’re coming from or going to next. It varies from person to person, so it’s best to not cover it. It’s up to you to add that to your total budget.

MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Walk when you can. Ljubjana is one of the most walkable cities on the planet. It isn’t the green capital for nothing! The greater part of the city center is pedestrian-only zone. Taking a stroll in between its picturesque buildings isn’t a chore! If you have health or mobility issues, take advantage of the kavalir vehicles, which can transport you for free.
• Most good restaurants are not open the whole day. They only operate during lunch hours (11:30 am – 1:00 pm) and dinner hours (7:00 pm – 9:00 pm).
• Pay a visit to the supermarket on your first day. It’s easy to find budget-friendly restaurants in Ljubljana, but if money is a major issue, you can buy food at the grocery or supermarket and just eat it in your hotel or hostel.

That said, if your pockets are pretty loaded, feel free to spend. Contribute to the local economy by hiring guides, eating at restaurants, joining tours, and purchasing souvenirs!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do i need a visa to visit slovenia.

If Slovenia is the only country you are going to visit or if you’re traveling to multiple countries but spending the most nights in Slovenia, you must apply for a Slovene Schengen visa. However, Slovenia doesn’t have a consulate here in the Philippines. The nearest mission is in Beijing. But you can file your application at the Belgian Embassy (Embassy of Belgium).

In our case, Slovenia is just one stop on our multi-country European tour. Because we would be staying the longest in Italy, we applied via the Italian Embassy.

For more information about how to get a visa, READ: SCHENGEN VISA FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS!

Is Ljubljana / Slovenia safe?

Like most European capitals, there are pickpocketing and scams here and there, so you should remain vigilant all the time. But it is generally safe.

Just remember the following:

• Always keep an eye on your valuables.
• Don’t accept anything from strangers.
• When in doubt, ask your guide or hotel staff for advice.

Scams are NOT as rampant in Slovenia as in other touristy destinations in Europe, but we still recommend reading these posts:

✅ HOW TO AVOID SCAMS IN EUROPE

When is the best time to visit Slovenia?

Ljubljana is a year-round destination. Summer hosts lively festivals and events, autumn paints more colorful memories, and winter can be magical, too. But according to our guides, it’s best explored in spring, when the weather is a great mix of cool, dry and sunny.

We visited Ljubljana in September, when summer was giving way to autumn, and it rained half the time. Don’t get me wrong, the city is still great even when drenched, but the downpour can obviously limits one’s movements. Thankfully, there were days that the skies cleared.

What is the tipping policy in Ljubljana?

Ljubljana and Slovenia in general don’t have rigid rules when it comes to tipping. Tips are not obligatory but appreciated. The locals we talked to say they usually just round up the bill and tip if they enjoyed the service.

At restaurants, the service charge is already included in the bill. But you can still a tip if the service is exceptional.

On paid small group tours, you can tip 5-10% of the cost. At FREE walking tours, most participants leave 5€ if it’s a big group.

Is tap water safe to drink in Ljubljana?

If you have trust issues and you must drink bottled water, purchase big bottles from the grocery or supermarket instead of buying small ones at restaurants. It’s cheaper that way.

What type of power plug / socket is used in Slovenia?

2020 • 9 • 20

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Related Posts:

• LJUBLJANA: 25 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit
• 12 DAY TRIPS FROM LJUBLJANA: Best Destinations in Slovenia

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Oh, what a delightful read! Slovenia truly has a special place in my heart. Despite the challenges you faced on your trip, it’s heartwarming to hear that the beauty of Slovenia shone through. Ljubljana, in particular, is a gem, isn’t it? Its quaint charm and walkable streets make it an ideal destination. And thank you for sharing those tips on getting around Ljubljana. Walking through its pedestrian zones is indeed a fantastic way to explore this lovely city. Looking forward to reading more about your adventures in Slovenia! ✨

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3 Days in Ljubljana: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

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Mighty dragons guard historic bridges, a medieval castle towers above red-roofed townhouses, and old Roman ruins lie underfoot. Welcome to Ljubljana, one of Europe’s most fascinating capital cities.

Located along the unusually green waters of the Ljubljanica River, Slovenia ’s capital and largest city is always surprising. Founded by Roman soldiers over 2,000 years ago, Ljubljana has always been on the frontier of great empires, and the beautiful Old Town is a patchwork of Austro-Hungarian and Italian influences, framed by the brutalist buildings of the later Yugoslavian communist era. 

The capital of an independent Slovenian nation since 1990, you’ll love the newfound confidence that sweeps along the banks of the Ljubljanica River. Abandoned army barracks in Metelkova have been transformed into art galleries and nightclubs, while new Michelin-starred chefs craft Slovene-inspired tasting menus in Ljubljana’s feisty restaurants. 

In summer, the city hosts a month-long summer music and cultural festival, and in winter, the rooftops are covered in a light layer of snow as the smell of baked potica drifts through festive markets. Whatever time of year you choose to visit Ljubljana, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time. 

And while a weekend in Ljubljana is enough time to fall in love with the city’s quirky architecture and lively cultural scene, you’ll find there’s so much more you’ll want to see. Slovenia is a small country, and with Ljubljana as your base, you can hike to nearby mountains, explore the Julian Alps, and, of course, day trip to glorious Lake Bled. Keep reading to discover our perfect 3-day Ljubljana itinerary!

If you’re still deciding where to stay then make sure to check out our article on the  best boutique hotels in Ljubljana !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

How to Spend a Weekend in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Getting around ljubljana.

As your 3 days in Ljubljana begin, you’ll soon realize that the Slovenian capital is a compact city that’s a real pleasure to walk around. The city spirals outwards from its Old Town, which is itself set around a prominent hilltop on which Ljubljana Castle was built many centuries ago. Use the castle’s towers as your guiding reference points, and you’ll never lose sight of the Old Town, even if you do get lost among its cobbled medieval streets!

The Old Town sits on the eastern side of a bend in the Ljubljanica River, and you’ll find that the best sights and attractions are all just a short walk away from the river banks. You can even take a boat cruise along the river to see more. 

Further out, suburbs like Metelkova or places like Tivoli Park are only a 30-minute walk from the Old Town. The city also has an excellent and inexpensive bus service, and you can rent bicycles and easily get around town on two wheels. You may wish to purchase the Ljubljana Card , which gives you unlimited use of public transport, a walking tour, and entrance to most major attractions in the capital. 

As Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana is a transport hub for the rest of the country and neighboring European cities. You can take trains to many destinations, including Lake Bled, Zagreb, Rijeka, Pula, and even Munich and Zurich. The bus connections are even better, with domestic and international connections to anywhere in Slovenia and Europe. 

Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport is the city’s (and country’s) primary international airport, with flights to many major European cities, including London, Paris, and Budapest. The airport is a 45-minute bus ride from the city center, or you can jump in a taxi.

Explore the City of Ljubljana

Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary – Day 1

You’ve got a lot to pack into your 3-day trip to Ljubljana, and we recommend starting your visit with a walking tour of the main sights in the capital. As we already mentioned, Ljubljana is an excellent place to explore on foot, and you can either join a dedicated walking tour led by a local guide or put your own itinerary together using the major sights we’ll list below.

The Franciscan Church of the Annunciation

There are “free” city tours throughout the year, departing from the famously pink church (the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation) in Prešeren Square. There’s a departure at 11 am daily, with additional departures at 3 pm and 6 pm during the summer season. You only pay what you feel the tour was worth at the end, although you can also book private walking tours or specialist walking tours (including “communist tours,” for example). 

Prešeren Square & Triple Bridge

Your tour of Ljubljana starts with an introduction to Prešeren Square, the city’s pedestrianized central square. You’ll see the Prešeren Monument, which is dedicated to the country’s national poet, Frances Prešeren, who wrote epic stories of Slovenian nationhood when the country was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the first half of the 19th century. 

Prešeren Square is where the Old Town really begins, and from here, you’ll see where the old city gates stood before crossing over the Triple Bridge, which connects the two halves of Ljubljana. The Triple Bridge is your first introduction to the work of famous Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, who designed much of early 20th-century Ljubljana and gave the city the contemporary character it still has today. 

On the opposite side of the river, you’re now in the medieval part of the city. The castle will be above you as you stroll along to Ljubljana Cathedral, a beautiful baroque masterpiece that was built in the 1700s on the site of an even earlier cathedral that was thought to have been built in the 13th century. Walk past the Central Market and keep to the riverbank, and you’ll now see two more of Ljubljana’s most famous bridges.

Butcher’s Bridge & Dragon Bridge

First is Butcher’s Bridge. It sounds ominous, but actually, Butcher’s Bridge is covered in padlocks left behind by couples looking to eternalize their love for one another. The bridge was built in 2010 but was based on an original plan envisioned many decades earlier by Jože Plečnik. 

You can purchase a padlock nearby and lock it to the railings, or you can just take in the view of the Ljubljanica River as you walk on over. The second bridge, which you can see from Butcher’s Bridge, is the iconic Dragon Bridge. The green dragon is the symbol of Ljubljana, and wonderful dragon sculptures guard the entrance to this elegant river crossing, which was first opened in 1901. 

Stay on the “modern” side of the river, then follow the path back toward Prešeren Square and keep going until you reach the beautiful buildings of the University of Ljubljana. You’ll have an excellent view looking up from Congress Square, before you cross over yet another bridge (the equally famous Cobbler’s Bridge, which is lined with Greco-Roman plinths and pillars) before ending up at Ljubljana’s historic Town Hall and Town Square.

You’re back in the Old Town now, after a busy walk weaving backward and forwards over the new and old parts of Ljubljana. It’s time for lunch, and you can choose between a riverside setting at Slovenska Hisa , where you can try Slovenian charcuterie and sharing boards made with local produce, or Capriccio in the square, where you can enjoy the Italian influence found in Slovenian cuisine. 

Ljubljana Food & Wine Tour

Castle Hill (Ljubljana Castle)

After lunch, jump on the funicular and take in the sights as you rise to the top of Castle Hill. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend exploring the castle as you walk along parapets and enjoy magnificent vistas across the red-roofed skyline of the Old Town below. The castle dates back to at least the 12th century AD, although much of the architecture you see today was added in the Baroque style by the Habsburgs in later centuries.

Learn more about Slovenian history (dating back to Neolithic times) in the castle’s museum, then pop into the lighthearted Puppet Museum to learn about the surprising history of Slovenian puppetry. There’s a lot to do in Ljubljana Castle , including live roleplaying and escape games, temporary art galleries, and even a nightclub. 

We recommend hanging around until the sun sets. You can even stay for dinner and drinks. The castle is home to several cafes and restaurants, including the excellent Gostilna na Gradu , where you can order traditional Slovenian fare with a view of the city. After dinner, take the funicular back down to the Old Town, where you can enjoy a few aperitifs in the bars around Town Square. 

Visit the Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary – Day 2

Your Ljubljana itinerary continues on Day 2 with another action-packed day of sightseeing in the Slovenian capital. You’ve already explored the traditional sights of the Old Town in addition to the nearby sights on the modern side of the river. Today, you’re going to be having a more in-depth look at local culture and history, so we hope the overview yesterday has prepared you well!

Start with a light breakfast because we recommend joining a foodie tour on your second day in Ljubljana. Slovenian cuisine has influenced and been influenced by the cuisines of its neighbors, and local food is a unique blend of Italian, Austrian, Hungarian, and Balkan culinary traditions. Slovenia is fast becoming a foodie destination , and the country has 58 restaurants in the Michelin Guide and 10 Michelin-starred restaurants (most of them in Ljubljana).

It’s an exciting time to be eating your way around Ljubljana, as chefs prepare local delicacies using fresh ingredients brought in from the nearby countryside. There are several different tours available, many of which cater to vegetarian and vegan travelers too. 

You’ll typically get the chance to try Slovenian favorites, including the famous Kranjska Klobasa (a type of local sausage), local cold cuts of ham and delightful cheeses, and specialties like Idrijski žlikrofi, a delectable dumpling dish. 

Your food tour will take you around Ljubljana’s Central Market (you walked past it yesterday), where you’ll learn more about the stallholders, the produce, and the culinary traditions making a comeback in Slovenia today. If you decide not to join a food tour, then we recommend visiting the Central Market for lunch on Day 2 anyway, so you can try local cheese, wine, and meats in a lively local setting. 

If a food tour isn’t your thing, then we suggest spending the morning on either a communist walking tour, a street art tour, or perhaps an architectural tour (exploring the legacy of Jože Plečnik) instead, so you can delve a little deeper into a topic you enjoy while you’re in Ljubljana. 

Get a Taste of Slovenian Cuisine

Museum Hopping around Tivoli Park

Your afternoon is now dedicated to museums, of which there are many to choose from. We suggest strolling over to Tivoli Park, where you’ll find a beautiful green space that’s also home to some excellent cultural and historic institutions. If you’re traveling with kids (or if you’re just a big kid at heart!), then on the way, you can stop off at the House of Illusions for a little optical trickery before heading into the Slovenian School Museum .

House of Illusions Entrance Ticket

Next up is the nearby National Museum of Slovenia , which is one of the best places to visit in the city if you’re a big history fan. This excellent museum is the oldest museum in Slovenia, and it contains artifacts and archaeology that present you with a detailed overview of the nation’s development from prehistory to the present. The same grand public building by Tivoli Park also hosts the Slovenian Museum of Natural History , where you can see the reconstructed skeletons of mammoths and dinosaurs.  

Right on the edge of Tivoli Park, you’ll find the National Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art . The National Gallery is home to an extensive collection of artwork, the oldest of which date back to the 12th century. 

The Museum of Modern Art focuses on contemporary artists, with a collection that mostly spans the 20th century. Take a walk through Tivoli Park next, and if you have time, visit the National Museum of Contemporary History (exploring modern Slovenian history and culture), which is also nearby. 

Head back to your hotel to freshen up, then prepare yourself for an evening of eating and drinking in Slovenia’s best restaurants. If you enjoy your food with a side of history, then we recommend booking a table at Gostilna Sokol in the Old Town. 

This excellent restaurant dates back to 1870, and few other eateries serve such traditional dishes as this. For fine dining, Strelec Restaurant offers 9-course tasting menus in a romantic setting, while TaBar serves Slovenian-inspired tapas dishes from Michelin-quality chefs. 

Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary – Day 3

Your 3-day Ljubljana itinerary continues with a relaxed morning in the city. Take a walk around Tivoli Park, enjoy a short boat ride along the Ljubljanica River (if you purchased a Ljubljana City Card, a boat ride is included!), or visit one of the museums you didn’t have time to fit in on Day 2. 

Ljubljana Skyscraper

In the late morning, make your way to the Ljubljana Skyscraper , where you’ll have superb views over the city. The Ljubljana Skyscraper is one of the city’s most unusual buildings. Way ahead of its time, the skyscraper was built in 1933 and opened to great fanfare, being the tallest building in the Balkans at the time. 

It’s some 70 meters tall, and although it’s no longer the tallest building in the capital, it still holds a curious place in the hearts of locals (there’s even a famous pop song about the skyscraper!) and on the city’s skyline. 

Nebotičnik Cafe

Take in the views from the top deck, and hang around for lunch at the Nebotičnik Café, where you’ll enjoy supreme panoramas while you eat. As with everywhere in Ljubljana, there’s also a nightclub in the Ljubljana Skyscraper, although you’ve got much more to pack in on Day 3 before that opens much later. 

Metelkova District

Your final afternoon takes you to one of Ljubljana’s most interesting districts. Your next stop is the rather unusual Metelkova District, which you’ll find a half-hour walk north of the Old Town. Metelkova is now known as Ljubljana’s quirky artistic district, but until the fall of communism in 1993, it was infamously better known for its army barracks and political prisons.

Metelkova Art Center 

The area was abandoned following the withdrawal of the Yugoslav Army, and it was taken over by squatters in the 1990s. They eventually turned it into an “autonomous” social and cultural center, and today, the once derelict buildings are now an artistic hub focused around the Metelkova Art Center . There’s graffiti, street art, and unusual art installations all around the center, while you can also visit the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova for a more official look at the modern art scene in Ljubljana. 

Hostel Celica 

You’ll also want to visit Hostel Celica . Located in Metelkova, Hostel Celica was the site of Ljubljana’s former political prison. The old prison cells have been transformed into artistic spaces by former prisoners, where you can even spend the night if there’s availability. You can take a guided tour of the hostel to see how it once functioned as a prison and to hear the stories of the prisoners that were kept behind bars here. 

That should bring you into the late afternoon, but don’t leave Metelkova just yet because the district is also Ljubljana’s alternative nightlife center. There’s a packed events schedule throughout the year, and early evening sees the old barracks turned over to live music and creative arts events. By late evening, the live music is replaced by DJs, and the district hosts underground raves and late-night parties.

Spend the Night at Hostel Celica

If that’s not your scene, then we recommend popping into the bar at Hostel Celica for a craft beer, enjoying a bit of live music, then heading back to the city for dinner. You’ve got a few options for your last dinner in Ljubljana. 

Sushimama serves up Asian-fusion food made with local Slovenian ingredients, B-Restaurant offers affordable fine dining, and Gostlina AS prepares delicious local food in a traditional setting (all are recommended by the Michelin guide). 

If you’ve still got the energy, then you can close your weekend trip to Ljubljana with a last aperitif in the Old Town bars. If you’re still going strong, then maybe you’ll even be tempted by a late night back in Metelkova or a session at the castle or skyscraper nightclubs!

What to do if you have more than 3 days in Ljubljana

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 3 days in Ljubljana, then you’re in for a treat. Not only are there lots more things to do in the city, but the capital is well connected to many more nearby destinations, including the world-famous Lake Bled.

Located less than a one-hour drive away from Ljubljana, Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. This alpine lake is startlingly colorful, with glacial waters surrounded by the tall peaks of the Julian Alps. You can spend the day hiking around the lakeside (it’s around six kilometers in circumference), delving into history at Bled Castle, or rowing across to the distinctive church on the island. End the day trip with a slice of creamy Bled Cake!

Take a Trip to Lake Bled

Šmarna Gora

Just outside the city, you’ll find Šmarna Gora, a 664-meter-high hilltop that towers over the countryside. At the summit, you’ll find a dramatic church and a lovely cafe where you can refuel after your walk. A network of hiking trails leads from Ljubljana through the hills to the top of Šmarna Gora and other adjacent peaks, making for an active outing from the city. 

Go Hiking in Šmarna Gora

The city of Maribor is an hour and a half from Ljubljana by car. Located on the Drava River in the northeast, this is Slovenia’s second-largest city. Maribor is beautiful, and you can spend the day strolling through old streets and enjoying the local wines (this is a famous wine-growing region). Visit the local museum and castle to learn more about the history before heading back to Ljubljana.

Discover the Inviting City of Maribor

Lake Bohinj

It’s not nearly as famous as Lake Bled, but make an effort to visit Lake Bohinj (it’s a one hour and 20-minute drive from Ljubljana), and you’ll be awed by alpine scenery. There’s just a fraction of the crowds here, and you’ll quickly fall in love with its beautiful scenery and epic hiking trails. 

See Lake Bohinj

Postojna Cave

A 50-minute drive into the countryside brings you to Postojna Cave Park , one of Slovenia’s greatest natural attractions. Reaching a length of 24 kilometers, Slovenia’s second-longest cave system is the perfect place for a subterranean day trip. Learn about the natural karst caves common here, then visit Predjama Castle to see the world’s largest “cave castle.”  

Secure a Postojna Cave Ticket

We hope you enjoy your weekend trip to Ljubljana! Should we add something else to our 3-day Ljubljana itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

Planning a trip to Slovenia? Check out our favorite travel guides and resources!

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Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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1 thought on “3 days in ljubljana: the perfect weekend itinerary”.

My sister and I also had an exciting trip to Ljubljana. However, we rented a car because it was very hot. It is one of the best countries in Europe for driving including; a place where you can freely drive and explore all the mountain roads and amazing architectural styles.

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Your Eurail Pass is your key to a true rail travel adventure. Discover the splendid architecture, mountain vistas, and the lovely Adriatic coast of Slovenia. If you want to explore this fascinating and beautiful country by rail, there are plenty of Eurail passes to choose from. The convenience and efficiency of train travel will make it well worth your while.

Train types

Rail network.

The  national railway company of Slovenia  is called SŽ (Slovenian Railways - Slovenske železnice).

How to get there

The capital city of Ljubljana is easy reachable by direct trains from Austria (Vienna), Germany (Munich), Switzerland (Zurich), Croatia (Zagreb), Hungary (Budapest) and Serbia (Belgrade).

• Domestic trains
• International high-speed
• Night trains

Regional and intercity trains in Slovenia

Regionalni vlaki (RE)

Regional trains linking larger cities to smaller towns and villages.

2nd class carriages only.

Bicycles allowed on board upon purchase of a special bike ticket.

No reservation required.

Lokalni potniški (RE)

Local trains running on suburban commuter routes.

InterCity (IC)

Fast trains connecting major towns and cities in Slovenia.

Reservations are not required but it may be worth making one when travelling during a busy period.

InterCitySlovenija (PEN)

Tilting, fast pendolino trains providing the best comfort and rail experience in Slovenia.

Regular services between Maribor and Ljubljana.

A seat reservation is optional, but it may be worth making one when traveling during a busy period.

International trains in Slovenia

EuroCity (EC)

• Fast, modern trains connecting major cities in Slovenia with other European countries.
• The following services are available to/from Slovenia:
• Trieste –  Ljubljana  –  Maribor  – Graz – Vienna
• Zagreb –  Ljubljana  – Villach – Salzburg – Munich – Frankfurt am Main
• Fast trains connecting major cities in Slovenia with other European countries.
• Vinkovci – Zagreb –  Ljubljana  – Villach
• Ljubljana  – Graz – Budapest
• Ljubljana  – Budapest
• Ljubljana  – Rijeka
• Ljubljana  – Villach

Night trains in Slovenia

EuroNight  (EN)

•  International night train connecting Slovenia with Austria, Croatia, Germany, and Switzerland.
• Ljubljana  – Zurich
• Ljubljana  – Munich – Stuttgart

Airport city connection

Fr om the International Airport you can  take a bus to Ljubljana railway station . The journey takes about 45 minutes. Eurail passes are not valid on this connection.

Eurail aid office

For help with Eurail in Slovenia, you can go to the international ticket office at:

Ljubljana Railway Station Mon-Fri: 08.00 - 20.00 Sat, Sun and holidays: closed

See  Eurail aid offices  for details and more aid offices in Europe.

Popular connections

• Domestic Routes
• International Routes

You can travel to and from Slovenia from popular cities in the following European countries:

Reservations

How can i make reservations for trains in slovenia.

Eurail reservation self-service system

Administration costs when booking through Eurail self-service:

• € 2,- p.p.per train
• Additional € 9,- per order (for paper tickets)

With railway carriers

• ÖBB (Austrian railways) : domestic and international trains

An explanation of how each booking platform works can be found here:   How do I book my reservations

Locally at the train station

Which trains in Slovenia require reservations?

• No reservations:  Regional trains (RE) and Interregio (IR)
• Reservations highly recommended during summer season
• Compulsory:  EuroNight on all routes

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Spend your whole vacation discovering Slovenia by rail

Standard prices from $ 64

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Tips and tricks

Pass benefits in slovenia, free bus travel.

With a Eurail pass valid in Slovenia, you get free travel on the following bus route:

Divača – Škocjan Caves 

Hotel and resort services

Eurail pass holders also get discounts on swimming pools, aqua parks, and saunas at various hotels and wellness spas.

Station facilities

Stations in Slovenia usually have excellent facilities such as:

Luggage lockers

Foreign exchange desks

Restaurants and cafés

Tourist information offices

ATM cash machines

Elevators and escalators

Access for disabled passengers

Quick facts

Capital: Ljubljana

Population: 2 million

Language: Slovene

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Dialing code: +386

Slovenian hub stations

These are the major train stations in Slovenia:

• Ljubljana Central Train Station
• Maribor Train Station (Železniška postaja Maribor)
• Celje Train Station

From the International Airport you can  take a bus to Ljubljana railway station . The journey takes about 45 minutes. Eurail passes are not valid on this connection.

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Change of currency

You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.

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Nations League 2024/25 fixtures, results, table, schedule, teams, venues: All you need to know about tournament

The Nations League is back with England and the Republic of Ireland drawn together in Group B2; Scotland play in League A for the first time, having topped Group B1 in 2022/23; Wales placed in Group B4 alongside Iceland, Montenegro and Turkey; Northern Ireland are in League C

@Ben_Islington

Thursday 5 September 2024 22:34, UK

The UEFA Nations League is back with the opening round of fixtures in the fourth edition of the tournament.

The competition was created to remove the unpopular friendlies from the calendar by replacing them with meaningful fixtures - and as before, it will be partially linked with European qualification for the next World Cup in 2026.

England interim boss Lee Carsley faces Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Saturday in Heimir Hallgrimsson's first game in charge at the Aviva Stadium in League B.

• Nations League 2024/25 fixtures | tables
• Carsley appointed as England interim head coach
• Clarke names four uncapped players in Scotland squad

Meanwhile, Scotland kicked off their League A Group 1 campaign with a last-gasp 3-2 defeat to Poland at Hampden Park and now travel to play group leaders Portugal in Lisbon on Sunday after they beat Croatia 2-1 in their opening game.

However, Northern Ireland made a winning start to League C with a routine 2-0 home victory against minnows Luxembourg in Belfast, just their second-ever triumph In 17 games in the competition.

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Craig Bellamy begins his Wales reign against Turkey, who were Euro 2024 quarter-finalists this summer, at the Cardiff City Stadium on Friday. Wales then visit Montenegro in League B three days later, the game having been switched to Niksic at short notice after the Podgorica National Stadium pitch was deemed unplayable by UEFA.

Previous men's Nations League winners

• 2019: Portugal (beat Netherlands 1-0 in Porto in the final)
• 2021: France (beat Spain 2-1 in Milan in the final)
• 2023: Spain (beat Croatia 5-4 on penalties after a 0-0 draw in Rotterdam in the final)

Sky Sports takes a look at what is different to UEFA's newest competition and provides everything you need to know about the latest edition...

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How does the league phase work?

Forget about the new Champions League format - the Nations League still follows the conventional system whereby each team will play six matches in their group, one home and one away against the other three nations in the group.

The 54 UEFA member associations participating were divided into four leagues based on their results in the 2022/23 UEFA Nations League. Two years ago, England and Wales were relegated to League B while Scotland were promoted to League A. Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland remain in Leagues B and C respectively.

The fourth-placed teams in Leagues A and B are automatically relegated to League B and C respectively. As before, the four group winners in Leagues B and C, as well as the two group winners in League D, are automatically promoted to Leagues A, B and C respectively.

The two lowest-ranked fourth-placed teams in League C, meanwhile, are relegated to League D.

And the winners of the four League A groups progress to the final?

No - that's changed since the last edition. Now, the Nations League has been expanded with an additional knockout round to be played in March 2025.

The League A group winners and runners-up will participate in home-and-away quarter-finals between March 20-25, with the winners of these ties qualifying for the finals next June.

Any other changes to the format?

Furthermore, the third-ranked teams of League A and the runners-up of League B, as well as the third-ranked teams of League B and the runners-up of League C, will play a home-and-away promotion/relegation play-off.

There will also be play-offs between the two best-ranked fourth-placed teams from League C and the two runners-up from League D.

So when are the Nations League finals?

The finals - to be staged by one of the four nations that qualify - are set to take place in June 2025.

The semi-finals will take place on June 4/5. The winners progress to the final on June 8, while the two beaten semi-finalists will face off for third place earlier on the same day.

When is the draw for the promotion/relegation play-offs?

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The draw for the promotion/relegation play-offs will be held on November 22 2024 in Nyon, Switzerland, along with the draw for the League A quarter-finals.

For the League A/B and B/C ties, the first legs will be played on March 20, and the second legs will be played on March 23. For the League C/D ties, the first legs will take place on March 26 2026 with the return legs on March 31 2026.

Do teams qualify for World Cup 2026 through Nations League?

The road to Canada, Mexico, and the United States technically starts here. When it comes to the draw for World Cup qualification, each national team involved will also be placed in a ranked table, based on the performance in the 2024/25 UEFA Nations League.

Essentially, the four highest ranked teams who do not then secure an automatic place at the 2026 World Cup will be granted a playoff safety net.

For 2026 World Cup qualifying, there will be 12 groups of either four or five teams. Only the group winners will qualify automatically for the tournament.

The 12 group runners-up and four best Nations League group winners, based on the Nations League overall ranking, will be drawn into four play-off paths, playing two rounds of single-match play-offs (semi-finals with the seeded teams to host, followed by finals, with the home teams to be drawn).

The four path winners will qualify for the World Cup finals.

Nations League 2024/25 draw in full

• Group A1 : Croatia, Portugal, Poland, Scotland .
• Group A2 : Italy, Belgium, France, Israel.
• Group A3 : Netherlands, Hungary, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Group A4 : Spain, Denmark, Switzerland, Serbia.
• Group B1 : Czech Republic, Ukraine, Albania, Georgia.
• Group B2 : England , Finland, Republic of Ireland , Greece.
• Group B3 : Austria, Norway, Slovenia, Kazakhstan.
• Group B4 : Wales , Iceland, Montenegro, Turkey.
• Group C1 : Sweden, Azerbaijan, Slovakia, Estonia.
• Group C2 : Romania, Kosovo, Cyprus, Lithuania.
• Group C3 : Luxembourg, Bulgaria, Northern Ireland , Belarus.
• Group C4 : Armenia, Faroe Islands, North Macedonia, Latvia.
• Group D1 : Gibraltar, San Marino, Liechtenstein.
• Group D2 : Moldova, Malta, Andorra.

Scotland fixtures

Scotland 2-3 Poland - 05/09/24 Portugal vs Scotland - 08/09/24 Croatia vs Scotland - 12/10/24 Scotland vs Portugal - 15/10/24 Scotland vs Croatia - 15/11/24 Poland vs Scotland - 18/11/24

England fixtures

Republic of Ireland vs England - 07/09/24 England vs Finland - 10/09/24 England vs Greece - 10/10/24 Finland vs England - 13/10/24 Greece vs England - 14/11/24 England vs Republic of Ireland - 17/11/24

Republic of Ireland fixtures

Republic of Ireland vs England - 07/09/24 Republic of Ireland vs Greece - 10/09/24 Finland vs Republic of Ireland - 10/10/24 Greece vs Republic of Ireland - 13/10/24 Republic of Ireland vs Finland - 14/11/24 England vs Republic of Ireland - 17/11/24

Wales fixtures

Wales vs Turkey - 06/09/24 Montenegro vs Wales - 09/09/24 Iceland vs Wales - 11/10/24 Wales vs Montenegro - 14/10/24 Turkey vs Wales - 16/11/24 Wales vs Iceland - 19/11/24

Northern Ireland fixtures

Northern Ireland 2-0 Luxembourg - 05/09/24 Bulgaria vs Northern Ireland - 08/09/24 Belarus vs Northern Ireland - 12/10/24 Northern Ireland vs Bulgaria - 15/10/24 Northern Ireland vs Belarus - 15/11/24 Luxembourg vs Northern Ireland - 18/11/24

Nations League 2024/25 schedule

• Matchday 1: September 5-7 2024
• Matchday 2: September 8-10 2024
• Matchday 3: October 10-12 2024
• Matchday 4: October 13-15 2024
• Matchday 5: November 14-16 2024
• Matchday 6: November 17-19 2024
• Knockout round play-off draw: November 2024
• Knockout round play-offs: March 20-25 2025
• League A quarter-finals: March 20-25 2025
• Final tournament: June 4-8 2025

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