17 Things to do in Slovenia if You’re Looking for Adventure

Ready to discover the best things to do in Slovenia? Explore with this insider’s guide.

Ah, Slovenia. Just thinking about this amazing European country makes me feel like taking a deep breath of fresh Slovenian air.

The beautiful, magical, fairytale-like, kind of addictive tiny country of Slovenia, located just east of Northern Italy, is one you might not have thought of visiting. But with dozens of things to see, adventures to try, food to eat, and places to visit in Slovenia, it’s a country I’d highly recommend for ANY kind of traveler.

I’ve now been to Slovenia twice because, if you haven’t noticed, I’m kind of obsessed. I mean, who wouldn’t love a country full of farm-to-table food, mountains to hike, and charming small towns to fall in love with?!

The country’s small size makes it a lot easier to get around, meaning you can see a LOT in a short amount of time. It’s a perfect destination for time-strapped travelers who want to see more than just the highlights in a short amount of time.

To help convince you to visit this place that I hold deep in my heart, I’ve compiled this list of my 17 favorite (or highly recommended) things to do in Slovenia.

Table of Contents

• 1. Ljubljana
• 2. Bled
• 3. Lake Bohinj and Savica Waterfall
• 4. Soča Valley
• 5. Kranjska Gora
• 6. Predjama
• 7. Postojna Cave
• 8. Piran
• 9. Izola
• 10. Mangart Saddle
• 11. Logar Valley and Velika Planina
• 12. Novo Mesto
• 13. Maribor
• 14. Vogel
• 15. Ptuj
• 16. Idrija
• 17. Skocjan
• Practical Tips

17 Unique and Adventurous Things to do in Slovenia

1. Ljubljana

Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital and its largest city — so it figures it’s at the top of most travelers’ lists of things to do in Slovenia. It’s also the heart of many of the significant events in Slovenia’s history, as well as a great hub to base yourself if you’ve only got a couple of days in Slovenia. With tons of historic landmarks and fun neighborhoods, Ljubljana is definitely worth exploring for a few days.

While you’ve probably come to Slovenia to enjoy the small villages and natural attractions, there’s a lot to enjoy in Ljubljana. First of all, there’s an epic free walking tour you can take to get acquainted with the city, led by local guides who know all kinds of epic and weird facts and trivia. Tours run daily at 11am, with a second tour at 3pm between November and April.

Afterward, head to the citadel of the city, Ljubljana Castle, which has tons of historic rooms, galleries, and exhibits you can view. It’s also got some of the most breathtaking views of the city’s iconic red-roofed homes.

When you’re done there, go for a stroll along Mestni Trg, the Old Town walking street between the castle hill and the river where you can find tons of boutique shops and restaurants.

At the end of the walking street, there’s the Central Market, which is open every morning. On Fridays in the summer, you can also find a big food market full of stalls from local chefs, also known as Ljubljana’s Open Kitchen.

Additionally, you can take a boat tour, sample amazing traditional Slovenian eats (the garlic struklji at Figovec and the kranjsko klobaso at Klobasarna are to DIE for), or visit one of the many art and history museums in the downtown area.

2. Bled

If you’ve ever seen those dreamy photos of a beautiful church steeple on a tiny island in a lake surrounded by mountains, you’ve actually seen Lake Bled.

While the name is a little violent, it’s actually quite a peaceful place. Arguably one of the most picturesque locales in all of Europe, Bled’s stunning location and memorable island make it one of the most coveted places to visit in Slovenia.

While you can visit Bled as a day trip from Ljubljana, I strongly recommend spending a night or two there to explore the town’s attractions and the nearby Triglav National Park.

Of course, in Bled, you’ll probably want to take a boat and visit the iconic church (Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria) that first brought attention to this small Slovenian town. Legend has it that the island was once the temple of a Slavic goddess, Ziva, but it was destroyed when Christians began to settle the region. A Gothic church was then built in its place, which through the years (and an earthquake) was destroyed and restored. Today, it’s said that if you ring the church bell and make a wish at the church on the island, your wish will come true.

But after that, don’t just leave! There are tons of other things to do in Bled that warrant a few extra hours (or days). Don’t forget to try the famed Bled cream cake (kremsnita) and visit the Bled Castle, which sits atop a picturesque cliff along the side of the lake. Surrounding the lake, there are also some hikes you can do, including the hike to Ojstrica and Osojnica.

3. Lake Bohinj and Savica Waterfall

Located in the northwestern corner of Slovenia, Triglav National Park is the only national park in the country and one of the sparkling gems of the entire Alpine region. With gorgeous waterfalls, sparkling lakes, amazing hiking trails, and some of the most awe-inspiring views in the country, this park showcases the Julian Alps in the best way possible.

Within Triglav are two incredible sights located not far from each other: the mysterious Lake Bohinj and the deep teal Savica Waterfall.

Lake Bohinj is the largest permanent lake in Slovenia and the center of many local myths, including a large dragon which supposedly lives in one of the many caves there. On the shores near the parking lot, you’ll find the famous statue of the golden-horned goat, Zlatorog, the protector of the lake. At Bohinj, you can go for a swim, ride the electric boat for just €10 round trip, or walk the trails around the lake’s perimeter.

A short drive away lies the trail to Savica Waterfall (Slap Savica) — a short uphill hike rewards you with excellent views of Triglav National Park and a stunning 78-metre teal waterfall. Go early and you may enjoy the falls all to yourself!

4. Soča Valley

Another famed area of Triglav National Park is the scenic and magical Soča Valley. Home to the Soča River — also known as the Emerald River — this area is arguably the most beautiful in all Slovenia. Honestly, who’s to judge? I think everywhere in Slovenia is beautiful, but the Soča Valley does top my list.

For outdoor lovers, there’s a TON to do here. You can rent a kayak and paddle the river or join a whitewater rafting tour in the Soča River. Alternatively, tackle one of the breathtaking hikes in the area, like the Soča Trail or Kobarid Waterfall. You can also visit the stunning Boka Waterfall, which drops over 100 metres and is pretty freaking breathtaking.

If you’re not a big fan of getting your feet wet, Soča Valley offers a wonderful selection of cute inns and farmhouses to stay in. And for serious food lovers, this is where you’ll find Hiša Franko — chef Ana Roš’s extraordinary restaurant in Kobarid, which now holds three Michelin stars, the first restaurant in Slovenia ever to achieve this distinction. The tasting menu draws on hyperlocal, foraged and farmed ingredients from the Soča Valley and its surroundings, and bookings are essential and sought-after. It doesn’t get more special than this if you’re willing to plan ahead.

5. Kranjska Gora

Kranjska Gora is a small ski town located on the border of Austria, much less visited than its neighbors Triglav National Park and Bled. If you want to get a little off the beaten track — Kranjska Gora is for you. But don’t let the smaller tourist numbers fool you — this is one of my favorite places in Slovenia because it’s SO. FREAKING. BEAUTIFUL.

When you visit Kranjska Gora, don’t confine yourself to the town. Instead, visit some of the gorgeous gems — lakes, mountains, and rivers — surrounding the area. Take a short drive to Lake Jasna, one of the most picturesque alpine lakes in the country, where you can spend the day admiring the reflection of the Julian Alps in the still, turquoise water.

In winter, Kranjska Gora offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing, winter hiking, ice climbing and more. It’s basically a winter wonderland for snow sports lovers.

6. Predjama

One of the strangest and most oddly beautiful places to visit in Slovenia is Predjama Castle, situated about an hour outside of Ljubljana. As you can see from the photo, this castle was built into the side of a limestone karst mountainside — a super unique marriage of man-made structures and the dramatic natural landscape.

You may be tempted to simply photograph the outside and leave. But it’s really worth paying to enter and take the audio tour. The tour recounts the story of Erazem Lueger, a terrifying robber-baron who owned the castle until his rather undignified death while literally sitting on his “throne.” (You’ll have to take the tour to get the joke!) Hidden inside: secret escape tunnels, cave dungeons, and hideouts built directly into the karst rock of the mountain.

7. Postojna Cave

Next to Predjama is the amazing Postojna Cave, one of the most popular and beautiful places to visit in Slovenia. The karst limestone that makes up much of Slovenia’s landscape creates enormous underground cave systems, and Postojna — the second-longest in the country — is the most spectacular to visit.

Sadly, I’ve never actually gotten to visit because I always arrived too late in the day. (Don’t be like Kay: research the cave’s opening hours before getting in the car in Ljubljana!)

Guided tours run several times a day during the high season, with paved footpaths and lighting throughout. They’ve also got an electric train that takes you into the cave — definitely a great happy hour conversation starter. You can also see the cave’s famous resident, the olm (Proteus anguinus) — a rare, cave-dwelling amphibian found only in the karst of the Western Balkans. Book tickets in advance during peak season.

8. Piran

Totally different from the snowy peaks and alpine lakes in the north, Piran is a picturesque seaside town on Slovenia’s tiny Istrian Coast. Piran is home to a very unique blend of Slovenian, Croatian, and Italian cultures, and its food and local lifestyle reflect the laid-back coastal vibes here. When people ask me about my favorite places to visit in Slovenia, Piran is ALWAYS on the list.

You can have a totally jam-packed itinerary in Piran, or you can simply enjoy the sea breeze and wander around the town without a plan. Both are totally awesome ways of exploring this lovely little town. Head to the Walls of Piran for some of the most amazing views, climb the St. George’s Bell Tower, and sample fresh seafood dishes (with Slovenian wine!) in basically any restaurant in town.

Getting There: Strongly recommend taking the bus from Ljubljana. Driving in Piran is severely restricted and you’ll likely need to park outside the historic city limits anyway.

9. Izola

If you’d love a seaside getaway in Slovenia without the crowds of famous Piran, head to Izola, a quaint seaside town just up the Istrian Coast. Filled with traditional orange-roofed homes just like its neighbor, Izola is a quieter, more local fishing village where you can enjoy the seaside way of life without as many fellow tourists.

Unlike Piran, Izola has actual beaches where you can put on your swim trunks and relax! Book into a local B&B or boutique hotel and simply unwind — or sample fresh seafood after wandering along the shoreline trails to nearby villages.

10. Mangart Saddle

As one of Slovenia’s hidden gems for hikers, Mangart Saddle is a jaw-dropping mountain area on the very northern border of the country, perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, and lovers of the outdoors. It’s a bit difficult to reach without your own car, but if you make the trek, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most absolutely stunning, raw nature available in all of Slovenia.

11. Logar Valley and Velika Planina

According to locals, Logar Valley and Velika Planina are some of the most beloved places to visit in Slovenia — and because they’re not on the typical tourist track, they’re a bit less crowded than Ljubljana or Bled.

Logar Valley is home to breathtaking landscapes carved by ancient glaciers, with striking valleys amidst jagged, otherworldly mountaintops. Drive down the scenic Solcava Panoramic Road that winds through the mountains, or head out on one of the many hikes in the area. Nearby Velika Planina is an alpine plateau full of rustic houses — take a cable car to get up to the plateau, where you can hike around and visit the famed herdsmen’s settlement.

12. Novo Mesto

Situated in the eastern part of Slovenia, the picturesque city of Novo Mesto is an architectural marvel in the middle of Slovenia’s Dolenjska wine country, where they make the traditional Slovenian Cvicek wine. Visit the Museum of Dolenjska to learn more about the region’s history and artifacts, or sample local eats at a home-owned restaurant.

Just outside of Novo Mesto lies Otočec Castle — a gorgeous 16th-century castle hotel on an island in the middle of the Krka River, where you can actually stay the night. Book Otočec Castle Hotel.

13. Maribor

Maribor is Slovenia’s second city and a perfect gateway to the eastern part of the country. Spend a couple of days in Maribor if you have the time.

Visit the Old Vine — officially the oldest grapevine in the world, over 400 years old and still producing grapes — and sample some fine wines in its shop. For history lovers, the Maribor Cathedral and the Maribor Regional Museum delve into the city’s deep history. The nearby Mariborsko Pohorje Ski Resort is an excellent winter destination.

14. Vogel

Winter sports lovers will LOVE Vogel, the hub of skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, winter hiking and more. Located not far from Lake Bohinj, it’s a perfect region to pair with a winter trip to Bled or nearby Austria.

15. Ptuj

A total gem of a city in eastern Slovenia, Ptuj is a gorgeous example of Slovenian architecture and fascinating cultural heritage. Visit the historic Ptuj Castle and learn about the ancient religion of Mithraism at one of the city’s many Mithra shrines. Don’t forget to look out for the shaggy Kurent costumes — traditional fertility ritual costumes worn to celebrate the first days of spring — if you’re here at the right time of year.

16. Idrija

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Idrija is one of the most historically significant places to visit in Slovenia. A historic mining town built amidst rolling hills, Idrija was where mercury was first discovered in Slovenia in 1490, and many historic mining buildings continue to tell its story today. The town is also famous for its exquisite handmade lace — you can find locally-made pieces in its boutiques.

Visit the Idrija Mercury Mine to understand the town’s mining history, the Idrija Lace School to see the famous local craft made in real time, or head to Wild Lake (divje jezero), a fascinatingly coloured forested lake that appears to be multi-coloured depending on the light.

17. Skocjan Caves

The Skocjan cave system is a little out of the way, but it’s an absolutely magnificent display of nature at work. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Skocjan Caves feature some of the world’s most dramatic underground landscapes, including an enormous collapsed karst doline and the Reka River canyon — far more dramatic in scale than Postojna.

To visit, buy a ticket at the entrance and choose a designated tour time. The guided tour covers 2.3 kilometres of paved, lit pathways through extraordinary rock formations. One of the most remarkable natural sites in Europe.

Practical Tips for Visiting Slovenia

When to Visit Slovenia

Slovenia is truly a year-round destination. Here’s a quick guide by activity:

For hiking, caves, or rafting: June to mid-September is the best window, though this is also peak tourist season and the main attractions will be very crowded.

For snow sports: December to late February for the best powder and winter conditions.

To avoid the tourists: Spring (March to May) or autumn (October to November) — the least crowded months, often with dramatic scenery.

Getting to and Around Slovenia

Getting there: Take a FlixBus to Ljubljana from most nearby cities (Verona, Venice, Trieste, Zagreb, Graz, Vienna) or fly directly to Ljubljana Airport (LJU) on most European airlines.

Getting around: The easiest way is by rental car — Slovenia has well-maintained highways to all the major sights. Book online in advance (Sixt is a reliable option) and pick up at the airport or in Ljubljana. Buses also connect most major towns.

Where to Stay in Slovenia

• Hostel Celica (Ljubljana): Built inside a former jail — all rooms are converted jail cells. Wonderfully unique.
• Otočec Castle Hotel (Otočec): Stay in a literal castle on a river island in eastern Slovenia.
• Old Parish House B&B (Bled): Quaint B&B next to the staircase to Bled Castle in an old convent building, some rooms with lake views.
• Hiša Franko (Soča Valley): The three-Michelin-star restaurant also has a beautiful farmhouse-style guest house on the property, with breakfast included.

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