Slovenia might be among the smaller countries in the world, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in its diversity. In fact, this green country (over 60% is forested) is the only European country where the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst and the Pannonian Plain meet. This results in immense diversity within short distances, which come in handy, as it will take you only two hours to drive from the capital to the most remote corners of the country. Here, you'll find a number of things to do, including active holidays and exploring nature, pampering at spa resorts, cultural spots and superb gastronomy and wines. What all these exciting experiences have in common is sustainability, which is reflected in care for the environment, tradition and taking care of the well-being of the locals and visitors alike.
From the Ljubljana Castle, you can see the whole city from above. Stop by the famous Dragon Bridge and continue along the Ljubljanica River until you find the perfect cosy café to take a break at. Explore the Central Market and get a taste of Slovenia. Finish your day with a relaxing walk through Tivoli Park and a visit to the National Gallery or Museum of Modern Art. In December, don't forget to admire the city's festive decorations, which fill the city with a charming holiday atmosphere.
Let your journey lead you deeper into the heart of Slovenia to discover the wild beauty of Kočevje. From a hidden lookout in the Kočevsko region, you can watch a brown bear in its natural habitat. In Idrija, discover how intricate lacework is crafted by skilled hands. Explore the hills surrounding Škofa Loka, to find unusual forts, and catch a glimpse of Cerklje na Gorenjskem in the valley below Krvavec. In Kamnik, you'll be drawn to the Velika Planina Plateau, and on the warm Kolpa River, you'll contemplate how far the experiences offered by Slovenia can take you.
Jošt Gantar, Slovenian Tourist Board
In the heart of the Julian Alps, a true winter fairytale awaits: Lake Bled, framed by snow-dusted peaks, enchants visitors with its serene atmosphere and the iconic church on its island. As winter settles over the landscape, the area invites you to enjoy peaceful walks, winter hiking, cross-country skiing, ice skating and festive seasonal events (for alpine winter adventures, Bohinj, Kranjska Gora and Soča Valley are also not to be missed). After a day in the crisp mountain air, slow down with a warm drink and a slice of traditional Bled cream cake in one of the cosy lakeside cafés.
Jošt Gantar, Slovenian Tourist Board
Don’t miss the charming coastline and Karst caves
Alternatively, you can opt for a journey towards south, to Karst and to Mediterranean Slovenia, or towards east, to Thermal Pannonian Slovenia. But let us start on the coastline. Slovenia’s coastline is modest yet beautiful, with a handful of sun-drenched coastal towns famous for their production of wine, olive oil and salt. Of Slovenia’s three main seaside towns - Koper, Izola and Piran - it is Piran that is most impressive. With its Venetian Gothic architecture, Piran’s Old Town is one of the best-preserved historical towns anywhere in the Mediterranean. Adventure even awaits underground. Did you know that Slovenia features as many as 13,000 caves, with new ones being discovered all the time? The most impressive are certainly the Postojna Cave and the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves. These subterranean wonders are among the world’s most captivating caves with magnificent formations and diverse fauna. Not to mention Postojna’s most iconic inhabitant; the famous ‘baby dragon’.
Nina Kurnik, Slovenian Tourist Board
For pampering and great wines, head eastwards
Moving on to the eastern parts of Slovenia, to Thermal Pannonian Slovenia, where no visit is complete without a pampering at one of the spa resorts which are thanks to natural water springs dotted around the area – some can be found also elsewhere in Slovenia, but the eastern part of Slovenia is really packed with them. You can choose just the right health resort for you according to the region or according to what your body needs, what your inner self wishes, and what kind of a getaway you and your family expect.
Ciril Jazbec, Tent, Slovenian Tourist Board
