When it comes to to European vacations Slovenia doesn’t get the credit it deserves. Bordered by Austria, Hungary, Croatia and Italy, Slovenia sits in the shadow of its more famous neighbors but has everything you need for a great getaway. Home to mountains and beaches, castles and cuisine Slovenia just might be Europe’s best kept secret.
Slovenia has a bit of everything
Slovenia shares many characteristics with its neighbors. You’ll find towering Alpine scenery just like in Austria, pristine beaches like Croatia and amazing food like in Italy. The good thing is that you get all of this in one place and it’s quite easy to travel around.
Slovenia is the Land of Lakes
Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction in Slovenia Lake Bled is a must on any trip to Slovenia. With it’s island castle Lake Bled is straight out of a fairytale. Aside from Lake Bled some of the most stunning lakes can be found in Triglav National Park. Boasting every shade of blue framed by the Julian Alps Lake Bohinj is truly a sight to behold. Whether you fancy a swim, fish for trout or just take in the views Slovenia’s lakes are well worth the trip.
Castles and History
Slovenia is home to some of the most beautiful and best preserved castles in Europe, as well as many traditional villages with a distinct rural charm. Bled Castle overlooks the beauty of Lake Bled and a visit here will give you the opportunity to learn Slovenia’s history. The country’s capital, Ljubljana, oozes old world charm and is filled with historic landmarks. You can visit castles and historic monuments like the Ljubljana castle, St. Nicholas Cathedral, and much more. Slovenia’s unique culture blends together elements from the country’s past, from the Roman and Slavic empires to the Habsburg Monarchy.
The Slovenian Alps
The Alps are Europe’s signature mountain range and extends into Slovenia. Running through through three ranges(the Julian, Karavanke and Kamnik-Savinja Alps). With peaks soaring over 9,000 feet the Slovenian Alps are a haven to adventure enthusiasts who enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter as well as hiking and camping in the summer. The highest peak, Triglav, is even featured on the country’s flag and coat of arms.
Beautiful Landscapes
Some people think of Slovenia as a smaller and more affordable version of Switzerland. With its blend of rolling pastures, deep forests , and towering mountains dotted with glacial lakes Slovenia has everything you’d find in Switzerland, and for 1/3rd the cost. A trip to Lake Bled and Ljubljana itself is enough to offer a taster on the scenic and cultural diversity of Slovenia. The Slovenian countryside features some of the most stunning road trip routes in Europe taking you on a journey through winding mountain passes and past cascading waterfalls.
Slovenia is affordable
Slovenia is an incredibly affordable destination to visit. Hotels and lodging are a fraction of the price of more popular countries in Europe. Public transport covers all major cities and is efficient and very affordable. Eating out in Slovenia can be a real gastronomic treat, and surprisingly inexpensive. Slovenia offers a well rounded European experience giving you a lot of bang for your travel buck.
Slovenia is easy to get around
Because Slovenia is small and well connected, it is quite convenient to get around and explore more of the country. Northern Slovenia is home to the majestic Alps and magic of Lake Bled. Towards the center of Slovenia and you’ll arrive at Ljubljana, a fairytale of a city that offers a a big European experience in a small package (You can spend one day in Ljubljana to catch all its highlights). Head west and you’ll chance upon the natural underground cave system that will leave you spellbound. Another hour from there and you’ll find beaches and beautiful coastline.
Outdoor Adventure
Slovenia is home to some of the best outdoor adventures in Europe, from rafting and kayaking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter. Slovenia is also home to an endless number of hiking trails to suit all fitness levels. Amazing white whiter rafting can be experienced on the Soča River, a popular river for extreme sports. Thrill seekers should head to the Julian Alps for some of the best paragliding in all of Europe.
Thermal Hot Springs
After a day’s adventure you can relax in one of Slovenia’s many thermal hot springs. These thermal springs come with a variety of temperatures, and many have swimming pools and saunas. You can find numerous hot springs throughout the country, like the Terme Olimia in Podčetrtek and Terme Čatež near Brežice, both of which offer a wide range of activities and services for a luxurious and relaxing spa experience. Thermal springs in Slovenia can be traced back to the Romans, who used them for medicinal purposes.
If you like this article be sure to check out some of my other posts!
The Best Things to Do in Sao Miguel, The Azores
One Week Itinerary – Switzerland
Unusual Things to Do in Krakow, Poland
Pin this post for later!
Tanya Bindra
Contributor
Tanya Bindra runs a travel blog at myrightsock.com. She writes about smart travel in Europe, drinks coffee like an Italian, and makes animated gesticulations while talking. You can subscribe to her bad jokes and handy travel tips by dropping her a line at Tanya@myrightsock.com.
Leave a Comment