Home / Travel Europe / Balkan Travel / 32 Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia for your bucket list

32 Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia for your bucket list

Love it? Share it!

As a traveler heading to the Balkans, you want to make sure that you don’t miss the most beautiful places in Slovenia. We get it, there are so many options that it can be overwhelming trying to decide which destinations are worthy of adding to your Slovenia itinerary

Don’t worry! In this travel guide, we will help you plan your trip by giving you an overview of all the main sights, cities, towns, and lakes in Slovenia; so whether it’s hiking in the Julian Alps, exploring Lake Bled, or experiencing history at Postojna Cave, we got you covered!

32 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Slovenia

Slovenia travel destinations

Discover the most beautiful places in Slovenia you must visit in Europe. This Slovenia bucket list includes fairytale villages, castles, and mountains. Best places to visit in Slovenia Europe travel. Slovenia things to do.
Slovenia Bucket list detsinations

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana
Ljubljana: Slovenia Beautiful Places to Visit

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Union

Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia. It is one of the most underrated capital cities in central/eastern Europe. Once you set foot into Ljubljana you will be amazed to see how it brings in the best of medieval world charm, greenery, culinary, and comfort – all in one place.

Often called the ‘green city’ in Europe, Ljubljana is a very pedestrian-friendly destination and you can literally walk and explore it all. 

The city centre is the heart of Ljubljana, and this is where you will find the lovely Ljubljanica River flowing through the city and a castle that towers from above!

On your trip, you can hop on a sightseeing cruise to soak in the city highlights. We highly recommend this as part of your Ljubljana itinerary.

Also, check out the stunning Prešernov trg Square, and take in the beautiful architecture of the pinkish Franciscan Church and the art nouveau buildings and structures surrounding it.

Views from Ljubljana Castle
Views from Ljubljana Castle

When hungry, head to the Central Market – this is the prime spot to try out local delicacies, especially during the ‘Friday Open Market’ event, wherein world-class chefs bring forth their signature dishes for visitors to enjoy. 

When wandering the old town, it is impossible to miss the gorgeous Ljubljana Castle and the many bridges that are built over the Ljubljanica River. Don’t forget to snap an Instagrammable photo at the Dragon Bridge or the Triple Bridge.

Triple Bridge in Ljubljana
View of the Triple Bridge

For accommodation, consider staying at the Grand Hotel Union, it is a 4-star hotel, perfect for the weekend visit to Ljubljana.

Ljubljana is a great starting point to explore more of Slovenia. Many of the destinations in this compact country can be explored as day trips from Ljubljana, so we have included all the distances for each below! 

Piran

View of Piran Slovenia
View of Piran roof, Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Piran | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.50 hours by car

Piran is located on the Adriatic coastline of Slovenia. This quaint seaside city built in Venetian style will take you back to another era.

During your trip, you must visit the Tartinijev trg Square (Tartini Square), which is the central square of Piran. Here you can browse through the well-stocked souvenir shops and eat at any of the cafes along the cobblestone streets.

The charming architecture of the city, its narrow streets flanked with old buildings, and the scenic beauty of the sea make it a very romantic place to visit in Slovenia.

The cafes set up on the waterfront are perfect spots for watching a sunset together. 

Do make time to soak in the views from the well-preserved walls of Piran. Another pretty viewpoint area is the St. George’s Parish Church. This is a Roman Catholic church located on the hill above Piran, and it offers uninterrupted views of the coast.

For accommodation, consider staying at Hotel Piran which is an elegant 4-star hotel that will make you feel like royalty.

Distance from Ljubljana to Piran is 1 hour 30 minutes by car. Without a car, a bus ride takes 2 hours and 50 minutes to get there.

Idrija

Idrija
View of the Gewerkenegg Castle, in the historic center of Idrija, Slovenia

Accommodation: Kendov Dvorec | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car 

The city of Idrija is loaded with historical sights including the beautiful baroque town hall, rich mining history, and many museums.

Idrija is also known for the Idrija Mercury mine where you can head down into the mines and learn about mercury mining in this historic town.

The oldest part of the mercury mine (tunnel Antoni) dates back to 1500 and is visited by lots of tourists.

Take advantage of the stunning Kendov Dvorec for accommodation in Idrija – it is a beautiful place to stay for a night or two.

Distance from Ljubljana to Idrija is 1 hour by car.

Portoroz

Portoroz

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Portoroz | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.50 hours by car

Portoroz is a charming resort town, located on the Slovenian coast of the Adriatic Sea. This small town is one of the most popular resorts in Slovenia, and it attracts tourists from all over Europe.

The seaside destination of Portoroz has something to offer for everyone, whether it’s sightseeing, sunbathing on the beach, or fun water sports.

Portoroz is one of the finest beaches in Europe, if not the best. Plus there are a lot of thermal spas in town – so don’t forget to immerse yourself in these healing waters.

For accommodation, consider the Grand Hotel Portoroz which is a 4-star hotel with an amazing view of the sea and a superb spa center. 

Distance from Ljubljana to Portoroz is 1 hour 30 minutes by car. Without a car, a bus ride takes 2 hours and 10 minutes to get there.

Maribor

Maribor
Amazing view of Maribor Old city, medieval water tower on the Drava river at morning, Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel City Maribor | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.50 hours by car

Maribor, another adorable city in Slovenia is perfect for couples who love nature and medieval buildings. The lovely Drava River flows through Maribor, making it an important river port city.

The Old Town of Maribor is a must-visit with its castles, colorful houses, and cobblestone streets.

The Old City Hall is an excellent example of Slovenian Renaissance architecture, built in 1515. The inside exhibits offer a glimpse into the history of the city. It is located in the central square of Glavni trg.

There are many spots that will provide romantic views of Maribor – Stari Most (Old Bridge) with its distinctive pillar, the Štukljev most (Stuckel Bridge) with its perfectly arched ceiling and lighting, and St. Urban – a popular city viewpoint.

Don’t forget to check out the Glavni trg Square for some sightseeing. This square is home to a 12th-century castle that now functions as a museum.

You can book a room at Hotel City Maribor which offers comfortable accommodation in the heart of Maribor with easy access to all major attractions. 

The distance from Ljubljana to Maribor is 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.

Ptuj

Cityscape from Ptuj Castle on Old town and Drava River in Slovenia. Architecture in Slovenija.
Cityscape from Ptuj Castle on Old town and Drava River in Slovenia. Architecture in Slovenija.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Primus | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.50 hours by car

The city of Ptuj is a quaint little town nestled in the hills of Eastern Slovenia. It is the oldest recorded city in the country.

Ptuj offers a spectacular view of the countryside, and it is filled with old buildings that give off an air of mystery.

During your stay, make sure to visit the Town Square (Rajska trg) as well as some of the churches and monasteries in town. The Dominican monastery is richly decorated in pink and has architecture with gothic and baroque elements.

The Ptuj Castle, built in the 11th century, sits on a hilltop overseeing the entire city. There are two towers that provide panoramic views of Ptuj, and is worth the climb. There is a castle musuem on site.

Hikers can check out the walking trails that surround the city, including the River Drava. There are several walking paths along this river to take in nature at its best.

Not into hiking? Enjoy a walk across the Pedestrian bridge, which offers views of the town and the River Drava.

For accommodation, book a suite at the Grand Hotel Primus, which offers a relaxing spa, and green space along with a lot of hiking opportunities nearby. 

Distance from Ljubljana to Ptuj is 1 hour and 30 minutes by car via A1/E57.

Celje

Celje
Aerial view of Celje: Most beautiful cities in Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Evropa | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car 

Celje is a historic city in Slovenia and is the third-largest in the country.  It is located only an hour away from Ljubljana. This picturesque town will take you back in time to the medieval period.

You can go for a walk around the cobblestone streets of Celje – or better yet, spend an afternoon exploring its nearby castles and churches.

There is a lot to see and do in Celje – from visiting the popular Grayfriars’ monastery, Pokrajinski muzej Celje (museum), and a 14th-century Gothic chapel.

For accommodation, consider staying at Hotel Evropa which is a clean and comfortable stay in the city.

Distance from Ljubljana to Celje is 1 hour by car. Without a car, a bus ride takes 2 hours and 10 minutes to get there.

Kamnik

View over farm on hill in Logarska valley to mountain range Kamnik–Savinja Alps in Slovenia, Europe
View over farm on hill in Logarska valley to mountain range Kamnik–Savinja Alps in Slovenia, Europe

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Union (Ljubljana) | Distance from Ljubljana: 30 minutes by car

Located 30 minutes north of Ljubljana, Kamnik is full of medieval architecture, churches, castles and it’s surrounded by green hills.

Here you can visit the famous Kamnik Castle that was once home to the Lords of Kamnik, then Habsburgs, Russians, and later the Nazis. This castle is now a museum with an extensive art collection.

You can also explore nearby towns like Vransko, and Luce which have an interesting Church of Mary.

There are no major hotels in the Kamnik area, but you can stay in nearby cities like Ljubljana or Zagreb. The distance from Ljubljana to Kamnik is 30 minutes by car.

Koper

Koper
Landscape with a view on the port of Koper in Slovenia

Accommodation: Apartment Koper | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.25 hours by car

Koper is a charming city located on the Istrian peninsula. This city has been through many rulers from Romans, Illyrians, Venetians to Napoleon’s empire and finally becoming part of Italy as Trieste Province until 1954 (when it became Slovenian territory).

Along with its rich history, Koper is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Slovenia. It has some excellent museums, churches, and palaces for art history lovers to explore.

The town is also home to Venetian-influenced structures such as the Praetorian Palace, a Gothic-style loggia, and a replica of the Rialto Bridge.

The central square of Koper known as Titov Trg Square is the heart of the city with an impressive Cathedral of St Nazarius (or Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary). The 15th-century bell tower is especially scenic at night with its glittering lights.

If you are looking for someplace special to get cozy, try the Apartment Koper which features stylish and elegant bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms.

The distance from Ljubljana to Koper is 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.

Bovec

Bovec: Most beautiful places in Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Mangart | Distance from Ljubljana: 2 hours by car

The town of Bovec is located by the emerald Soča River and features some excellent river rafting opportunities. It has plenty to offer for nature lovers such as Lake Bled, Triglav National Park, and Vršič Pass.

The Walk of Peace trail is quite popular in the region, and it offers World War I sights including trenches and bunkers.

The Brda wine region is also close by with its gentle rolling hills and vineyards. Bovec has plenty of excellent restaurants serving tasty local dishes made with fresh ingredients.

In Bovec, there are a few quirky historical sites such as the Fort Kluze and the Ravelnik Open Air Museum which are worth exploring.

For accommodation, choose Hotel Mangart which provides comfortable rooms, free parking, and a balcony that overlooks the nearby hills and mountains. Distance from Ljubljana to Bovec is 2 hours by car or 4 hours+ by bus.

Podcetrtek

Old church in Podcetrtek, Slovenia
Olimje castle and monastery in Podcetrtek, Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Breza | Distance from Ljubljana: 2 hours by car

Podcetrtek is a small town located in the eastern part of Slovenia. It is close to both Croatia and Hungary, thus making this spot an ideal gateway for exploring the region. This wonderful historic town falls under the oldest preserved castle in Slovenia, which has been declared as a national monument.

During your visit, you must explore the Olimje castle, which is open to the public. There are amazing exhibitions on display inside. Apart from this, you can also enjoy the architecture of the town hall, the church of St. Michael and others.

Then there is the Podčetrtek Castle, which overlooks the entire valley. This castle can be explored, however, this site is not maintained.

Podcetrtek has a romantic atmosphere that will invite you to spend some quiet time with your loved one.

For accommodation, consider staying at the Hotel Breza, which is an amazing 4 star property, with a pool and amazing views. 

Distance from Ljubljana to Podcetrtek is 2 hours by car. Without a car, you can hire a taxi for around 120 euros one way. 

Skofja Loka

Panoramic aerial view of medieval old town of Skofja Loka, Slovenia
Panoramic aerial view of medieval old town of Skofja Loka, Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel garni Paleta | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car

Located near the city of Kranj, Skofja Loka is a small town with an atmospheric centre that overlooks the shallow Loka River. Kranj to Skofja Loka is only 15 minutes by bus.

This charming little town features some excellent Gothic and Renaissance architecture at its Town Square (Mestni trg).

Equally stunning is the Škofja Loka Castle and Museum, which is an art and history fortress. Do climb up to the top, and soak in orange roof views from up there.

The Old Town Hall on the Town Square is an excellent example of a gothic building with beautiful exterior wall paintings, and there are several other town squares throughout Skofja Loka that you should explore.

When in town, don’t forget to snap a photo of the Ponte Dei Cappuccini (bridge).

Skofja Loka is probably known best for its traditional Easter celebrations called Pust. This unique celebration features a horse race and a traditional trumpet fanfare to mark the coming of spring.

For accommodation, stay at the Hotel garni Paleta which is located in town, and offers amazing views and is perfect for 2 people.

Distance from Ljubljana to Skofja Loka is 1 hour by car. This town is set in the beautiful countryside between Ljubljana and Lake Bled.

Kranj

Kranz
Kranj town with Alps: Best towns in Slovenia

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Union (Ljubljana) | Distance from Ljubljana: 30 minutes by car

Located near the capital Ljubljana, Kranj is home to beautiful castles and churches. This cute city is the fourth largest in the country, and is surrounded by green forests, rivers, and pastures making it an idyllic destination for those who want to explore nature or escape from the busy urban life of Ljubljana.

Explore the Old Town Hall in Kranz, and then opt for an underground tunnel tour that goes for 1,300 metres with an exhibition centre. Also check out the Kranj’s parish church which is considered to be one of Slovenia’s finest Gothic monuments.

You can visit one of the oldest Slovenian castles located near Kranj – Brdo Castle (Renaissance castle). It’s surrounded by an enchanting park with a lot of romantic spots for couples.

You can also visit the two museums located in Kranj – Gorenjska Museum (art), and National Museum Kranj.

Book a room at the Grand Hotel Union which is an elegant accommodation near the city center of Ljubljana. The suites here are luxurious, and very comfortably accessible to sightseeing and transportation network.

The distance from Ljubljana to Kranj is about 30 minutes by car.

Bela Krajina

Bela Krajina (White Carniola): Best places to visit in Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Bela Krajina | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.75 hours by car 

Bela Krajina is a nice, almost untouched region in the southeastern part of Slovenia along the Croatian border. The area offers spectacular views of the Slovenian countryside with green mountains and winding rivers.

In Bela Krajina, you can visit Bizeljsko-Sremič Wine Route which has a beautiful wine house to sample some of the local wines. Set aside time to explore its prime towns Črnomelj, Metlika, and Semič, and soak in the views, wines, and brews!

This region is best for slow travel, eating and wandering your way, but it is also perfect for outdoor enthusiasts from hiking, kayaking, and more.

Stay at Hotel Bela Krajina, in Metlika for fuss-free accommodation.

Distance from Ljubljana to Bela Krajina is 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.

Kranjska Gora

Accommodation: Ramada Resort | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car

Located in the heart of the Alps, Kranjska Gora is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests.

The best time to visit this destination is during the summer when you can relax on one of the many lakes that dot the landscape or even hike a mountain trail. For winter lovers, this place has some excellent ski slopes too. 

The town is home to many historical and natural sites. There is the Russian Chapel on the Vršič Pass and the 17th-century Liznjek House which are worth visiting for history buffs.

Russian Chapel in  Kranjska Gora
Russian Chapel in Kranjska Gora

For outdoorsy and nature lovers, hit the Nordic Center Planica and Zelenci Nature Reserve (birds watching).

You can stay in modest hotels like the Ramada Resort located in town. The distance from Ljubljana to Kranjska Gora is an hour by car.

Lake Bled

lake bled views
View of Lake Bled

Accommodation: Vila Bled | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car

The beautiful Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, and for a good reason.  This lake is surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped mountains and it offers an enchanting view of the Church of Mary the Queen sitting on a small island.

Boats are a great way to see Lake Bled. You can hire them on the lake (Pletna Boat Cruises are very popular and romantic!), and then visit the island, the church and walk the 99 steps.

Don’t forget to take photos of the blue waters and lush green hills that surround it.

Other than the island exploration, there’s so much to do in Lake Bled. For one, you must explore the Bled Castle, which is a medieval castle built on a precipice above the city of Bled in Slovenia, and it overlooks the lake and surrounding areas. 

Lake Bled Castle
Lake Bled Castle

If you have time on your hands, you can also hike up the forested hill to get a bird’s eye view of Lake Bled. This image of the church in the middle of the lake is something that will stay with you for a lifetime. And in the winter Lake Bled looks like something out of a fairytale!

For accommodation, consider staying at Vila Bled which offers lakefront views and luxurious rooms to make your stay comfortable.

Distance from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is 1 hour by car. You can also take a bus ride to get there for approximately 2 hours, but keep in mind that buses run less frequently from November to April.

Vintgar Gorge

River in green forest in Canyon Vintgar, Triglav - Slovenia
River in green forest in Canyon Vintgar, Triglav in Slovenia

Accommodation: Vila Bled (Lake Bled) | Distance from Ljubljana: 2.50 hours by car

If you are in Bled, make sure to explore the Vintgar Gorge. This gorge is 16 kilometers long and it’s located in Northwest Slovenia near Lake Bled.

The park offers a 1-mile (1.6 km) walk through the canyon with wooden bridges, steps, natural pools, and rapids that will take your breath away! You can hire a guide or explore the park on your own.

There are several cafés and rest areas you can stop at to take a break while walking through this gorge, so don’t worry about getting tired.

You have many options for accommodations in Bled – from hotels near Lake Bled like Vila Bled (listed above) that are conveniently located to the lake, to home rentals at vacation rentals listed by owners.

Distance from Ljubljana to the Vintgar Gorge is about 2.5 hours by car or you can take a bus ride.

Skocjan Caves    

Beautiful Skocjan Caves, Natural Heritage Site in Slovenia
Beautiful Skocjan Caves, Natural Heritage Site in Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Malovec (Divaca) | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car

The Skocjan Caves are located in Southwest Slovenia. These are limestone caves with some of the largest underground chambers found in Europe. There are more than 6 miles or 9.6 kms of passages, tunnels, and halls that you can explore.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its magnificent natural rock bridges, arches, and shafts that have been created by centuries of water erosion.

You can take a guided tour and watch an exciting multimedia show in the visitor center that will give you insights into this site. Tours last 1 hour 30 minutes.

Just outside the caves is the Skocjan Regional Park which is home to Karst forests, sinkholes, and ravines. There are also opportunities for caving, climbing, hiking, cycling, and fishing.

If you are looking for an affordable place to stay, consider booking at Hotel Malovec which is located in Divaca, about a few kilometres from Skocjan caves.

Distance from Ljubljana to the Skocjan Caves is about 1 hour by car or 2 hours if you take a bus.

Lake Bohinj

Foggy morning in autumn at Lake Bohinj In National Park Triglav, Slovenia
Foggy morning in autumn at Lake Bohinj In National Park Triglav, Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Bohinj | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car

Another beautiful lake in Slovenia is Lake Bohinj, about an hour’s drive from Ljubljana. Lake Bohinj is the largest permanent lake in Slovenia, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains covered with forests.

There are several activities you can do at Lake Bohinj – like hiking, biking, and kayaking. You can also take a boat ride to the Savica Waterfall or visit the Srednja Vas village nearby.

You can stay at Hotel Bohinj which is a cozy accommodation option with lake views, and a spa on-site. 

The distance from Ljubljana to Lake Bohinj is 1 hour+ by car, and it’s best to have a car to explore the lake and nearby areas.

Lake Jasna

Lake Jasna Slovenia's beautiful places
Lake Jasna Slovenia’s beautiful places

Accommodation: Jasna Chalet Resort | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car

This is another beautiful lake that’s located very close to Lake Bohinj and it’s surrounded by lush green forests. Lake Jasna is a perfect stop on your way to Vršič Pass. 

You can enjoy a lot of activities on this lake like swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Another popular activity for visitors is to take the boat ride where you will get excellent views of the nearby mountains!

There are several options for accommodation including staying at Kranjska Gora, but for a special treat opt for the stunning Jasna Chalet Resort, which is a cabin-style lakeside property with a restaurant/cafe on-site. 

Lake Jasna consists of two interconnected artificial lakes located near Kranjska Gora, and it is an hour + from  Ljubljana.  

Savica Falls

Savica waterfall in Triglavski national park, Slovenia
Savica waterfall in Triglavski National Park, Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Bohinj | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car

Savica Falls are located in Northwest Slovenia and it’s one of the most popular stops for visitors from Lake Bohinj.

There are two waterfalls – an upper and a lower fall. The lower fall is about 20 meters high, and the upper fall is over 80 meters. You can take a walk to both waterfalls or just enjoy them from a distance.

Distance from Ljubljana to the Savica Waterfall is about an hour by car.

The Vršič Pass 

Sheep grazing in the mountins of Vrsic pass, Julian Alps
Sheep grazing in the mountins of Vrsic pass, Julian Alps. Slovenia travel guide

Accommodation: Ramada Resort (Kranjska Gora) | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.50 hours by car

The Vršič Pass is located in the Slovenian Julian Alps and it’s one of the most famous passes used by automobiles, motorbikes, and bicycle enthusiasts. It takes about an hour to drive up to the top of this scenic road that reaches 1,611 meters above sea level.

The first road was built here in the first world war for the Austro-Hungarian army by the Russian prisoners. Today, Vršič Pass links Carinthia and Upper Carniola, and it is a popular tourist attraction. 

There are many activities you can do here like biking, hiking, skiing in the winter months, or even paragliding!

Distance from Ljubljana to Vršič Pass is about 1.5 hours by car or 2 hours+ by bus.

Triglav National Park

Colorful summer sunrise in the Triglav national park, Slovenia, Julian Alps, Europe.
Colorful summer sunrise in the Triglav national park, Slovenia, Julian Alps, Europe.

Accommodation: Apartmaji Triglav | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car

The Triglav National Park is the only national park in Slovenia and it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The park is home to three mountains – Mt. Triglav, the highest mountain in Slovenia at 9,396 feet above sea level; Mt. Kanjavec (6,564 ft.), and Mount Krn (5,700 ft.).

There are many activities you can do in the Triglav National Park like hiking and climbing. You can even go on guided trips for ice climbing and kayaking.

The best way to experience the Triglav National Park is by staying at one of the campsites or renting a suite at Apartmaji Triglav with uninterrupted mountain and forest views. 

The distance from Ljubljana to Triglav National Park is about an hour’s drive via highway A2 and then E61. You can also book day tours from Ljubljana to explore.

Pericnik Falls

Waterfall Pericnik in Julian Alp in autumn, Slovenia, Europe
Waterfall Pericnik in Julian Alp in autumn, Slovenia, Europe

Accommodation: Apartmaji Triglav | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour+  by car

The Pericnik Falls are located in the heart of Triglav National Park. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia as it is one of the highest waterfalls in the country.

You can take a short walk to get closer to this three-story waterfall, or you can do more outdoor activities here like zip-lining and caving.

There are also several activities along the so-called ‘Golden Trail’ – a trail that showcases the Slovenian countryside.

Distance from Ljubljana to Pericnik Falls is about 1 hour+ by car or 2 hours by public transport.

Postojna Caves 

Postojna Cave
Amazing Postojna cave, Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Jama | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car 

Postojna is a small town in Slovenia, and it’s home to the famous Postojna Caves which were discovered by Luka Cec (known as St. Luke the Caveman) in 1819. The caves are famous for their stalactites and stalagmites that formed over 500 million years ago. 

The cave is also home to the endemic Proteus, which are tiny blind salamanders that inhabit the caves.

Postojna Caves can get crowded especially in summer, but it’s worth exploring the huge limestone caverns and stalagmites/stalactites inside.

For accommodation in town, you can stay at Hotel Jama which is centrally located and has luxury rooms.

Distance from Ljubljana to Postojna is an hour’s drive via highway A1 or about 1.5 hours by train.

Predjama Castle

Blue spring flowers and Predjama castle on background
Blue spring flowers and Predjama castle on background

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Union (Ljubljana) | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car 

Located at the top of a 123-foot high cliff in the village of Predjama is this bucket list-worthy castle.

Predjama Castle was built in the 12th century by the first known member of nobility in Slovenia (prior to that time, Slovenia was ruled by tribal leaders).

The exterior of Predjama Castle is well preserved, and you can explore the castle’s museum that has weapons, medieval furniture, and instruments from that time.

The distance from Ljubljana to Predjama Castle is about 1 hour by car or bus ride. It is situated near Postojna Caves and can be explored on the same day.

Otočec Castle

Water Castle: Slovenia bucket list

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Union (Ljubljana) | Distance from Ljubljana: 45 minutes by car

Another bucket list-worthy castle near Ljubljana is the Otočec Castle that was built in the 13th century.

Otočec Castle wasn’t a residence, but it served as a fortification against Ottoman invaders. It has a pentagonal plan with a round tower and a chapel at its core. It is the only water castle in the country.

The distance from Ljubljana to Otočec Castle on the other side of the Krka River is about 45 minutes by car or about 2 hours + via bus. You can explore this on a day trip from Ljubljana as well.

Soca River Valley

Soca River in the summer
View of Slovenian Soca river in the summer

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Union (Ljubljana) | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.50 hours by car 

The Soca River Valley is another place in Slovenia that you should visit. It’s located about an hour and a half drive from Ljubljana, so it makes for a great day trip or weekend destination!

Soca River was also nominated as one of the world’s cleanest rivers in the past few years. Here you will also find the lowest point of the Triglav National Park.

For accommodation, you can stay at one of the campsites by the Soca River or book a private apartment to save money. There are many adventures you can do in the Soca River Valley like rafting, kayaking, and even paragliding.

Distance from Ljubljana to Soca Valley is about 1 hour 30 minutes via highways A1 and E70. It’s best to have a car to explore the Soca River and nearby areas.

Logar Valley

Logar Valley
Most beautiful places in Slovenia: Logar Valley

Accommodation: Hotel Plesnik (Slocava) | Distance from Ljubljana: 1.50 hours by car 

Logar Valley is another hidden gem in Slovenia, and it’s located near Bovec. It’s also known as the Valley of Flowers as it has numerous wildflowers and plants that grow throughout the area. There are lots of hiking trails, so you can take a short or long walk through the valley.

For a weekend of outdoorsy activities stay at the mountain lodge, called Hotel Plesnik which offers luxury rooms and great amenities.

Distance from Ljubljana to Logar Valley is an hour and 30 minutes by car.

Zelenci Nature Reserve

Zelenci (in English means - green) natural reserve
Zelenci (in English means – green) natural reserve: Slovenia beautiful places

Accommodation: Hotel Kompas | Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car 

Zelenci Nature Reserve is located in the southwestern part of Slovenia. The area gets its name from Lake Zelenci – it’s a glacial lake that was formed about 10,000 years ago.

Lake Zelenci is known for having some of the clearest waters in the country, and you can see some underwater plants.

There are also trails to take around the lake, and if you’re lucky, you can see some animals like deer or wild boars.

You can stay at Hotel Kompas which offers luxury rooms/villas, with restaurants and a pool on-site. 

Distance from Ljubljana to Zelenci Nature Reserve is an hour’s drive via highway A2/E61.

Most na Soči

Aerial view of Most Na Soci lake in beautiful colors near Tolmin in Slovenia
Aerial view of Most Na Soci lake in beautiful colors near Tolmin in Slovenia

Accommodation: Hotel Soča | Distance from Ljubljana: 2 hours by car 

Most na Soči is a small town located in the Littoral region. It’s known for its sport opportunities like rafting, kayaking, and other adventure sports.

Primary attraction in Most na Soči is its artifical lake (that has the same color as Soca River), and 2 historical sites – a Roman House, and a parish church dedicated to Saint Lucy.

There are also some waterfalls along the Soča River that you can explore as well as a hiking trail to one of the nearby peaks.

There are lots of places to stay, but we recommend Hotel Soča for relaxed accommodation with mountain views.

Distance from Ljubljana to Most na Soči is a two-hour drive via highway A1 and then the E61.

Črni Kal Viaduct 

Črni Kal Viaduct : Must see places in Slovenia
Črni Kal Viaduct : Must see places in Slovenia

Distance from Ljubljana: 1 hour by car 

The Črni Kal Viaduct is one of the highest bridges in Slovenia, and it’s located near Koper. It was built in the years 2001-2004 and stands tall at 87.5 m (287 ft).

Near Črni Kal you will also find a memorial that was set up to commemorate fighters and veterans from the surrounding area who fell and fought during the National Liberation War (WWII).

Distance from Ljubljana to Črni Kal Viaduct is an hour drive via highway A1. 

That’s a wrap

Slovenia is a beautiful country with many incredible places to visit. The different aspects of the culture and natural beauty make it an ideal destination whether you are looking for a relaxing break or something more action-packed.

It’s hard to pick just one place as the most beautiful in Slovenia because there are so many amazing things about this small European nation, from the coast with its sun-warmed pebbles; the Julian Alps that tower over Ljubljana; to Lake Bled’s crystal-clear water! 

And not to forget all the hidden gems scattered all over the countryside.

These are all the wonderful attractions and sites that make Slovenia a must-visit as your next European destination!

Pin: Best places to visit in Slovenia

Slovenia travel destinations

Discover the most beautiful places in Slovenia you must visit in Europe. This Slovenia bucket list includes fairytale villages, castles, and mountains. Best places to visit in Slovenia Europe travel. Slovenia things to do.
Best places to visit in Slovenia
Slovenia travel destinations

Discover the most beautiful places in Slovenia you must visit in Europe. This Slovenia bucket list includes fairytale villages, castles, and mountains. Best places to visit in Slovenia Europe travel. Slovenia things to do.
Must visit places in Slovenia

Love it? Share it!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.