#25 Famous Landmarks in Slovenia

There are quite a few things Slovenia is famous for, but the landmarks in Slovenia really stand out as some of the most impressive monuments in Europe, making them well-known worldwide.

Located in central Europe and marked by the Julian Alps, Slovenia has a plethora of natural landmarks and striking natural beauty that impresses anyone visiting it. Furthermore, it also has a few notable human-made monuments that one should visit.

n this article, we will explore natural and historical sites to reveal Slovenia’s 20 most famous landmarks. Nevertheless, we enjoyed exploring Slovenia and its landmarks we asked a few fellow bloggers to pitch in with their favorite Slovenian landmarks to produce the most thorough article possible.

Famous landmarks in Slovenia – Ljubljana

Ljubljana castle

The Ljubljana Castle stands on a hill above the downtown of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. It is an impressive big structure that marks the city’s skyline.

Ljubljana castle was a medieval fortress built in the 11th century, destroyed, and rebuilt in the 15th century. It was used as a defensive structure and the seat of the lords of Carniola in the 14th century.

Nowadays, the castle complex is used as a cultural venue. It houses several museums like the exhibition on Slovenian history and the puppet museum. You will also find the Chapel of St George, the prison, and the viewing tower. The viewing tower has panoramic views of the city. Inside the castle, there are also several restaurants, cafes, art exhibitions, and an escape room.

To reach the castle from the city, you can go by funicular, or by foot (there are several pathways) or by car.

You don’t have to pay to enter the castle courtyards, you can easily explore the restaurants and exhibitions. You only have to pay if you want to go to the Museum of Slovenian History and the Tower. In our opinion, it is not worth it.

River Ljubljanica and its bridges

The Ljubljanica River is an important feature of Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana. It runs through the city, along with wide pedestrian streets on both sides of the river. The whole city seems to have been built along the river.

In the past, the river had an important role in trading. It has several bridges crossing it, which gives Ljubliana the nickname “The City of the Bridges.” 

Ljubljana has 17 bridges crossing the river, the most famous are Dragon Bridge, Butcher’s Bridge, and Triple Bridge. They are also the most beautiful.

The Dragon Bridge is decorated with dragons, the symbol of the city. The Butcher’s Bridge is decorated with mythological bronze sculptures and is full of love padlocks hooked to its sides. And the Triple Bridge is a group of three bridges across the River.

One of the best activities in Ljubljana is taking a boat tour along the river, enjoying the views, and appreciating the several bridges. If you are lucky, you are even able to spot a beaver.

The river, the bridges, and the sidewalks along the river, full of cafes with people eating and drinking, make the city of Ljubliana a charming and lovely place to hang.

Slovenia Landmarks in the South and Coast

Škocjan Caves

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

The Skocjan Caves are one of Slovenia’s most famous landmarks. Located in the Karst region in the Slovenian countryside, the Skocjanske jame is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional natural features. The limestone cave system includes the largest underground cavern in the world, several waterfalls on the Reka River, and underground passages with unique karstic formations.

Getting to Skocjan Caves is easiest if you have a car. You can drive to the caves from Ljubljana, the country’s capital, or towns on the Slovenian coast, such as Koper or Piran. A guided tour is the next convenient option if you do not wish to drive.

Tours usually combine a visit to Skocjan Caves with a visit to the Lipica Stud Farm or Piran. You can also take a train to Divaca, from where you will need to take a taxi or walk to the caves (about 35-40 minutes).

The Skocjan Caves can only be visited on an official guided tour. Different tour combinations are available, but you can also just tour the main caves. There is a downhill walk from the visitor center to the cave entrance.

On the 90-minute tour, your guide will walk you through the two large cave chambers, called the Silent Cave and the Murmuring Cave. You will see large stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations and witness the thundering river below you.

Unfortunately, you can’t take photos inside the caves, but visiting the Skocjan Caves is a memorable experience in Slovenia!

Postojna cave

As the most visited cave in Europe (1.2 million visitors), the Postojna cave is not only one of the most famous landmarks in Slovenia but also a popular natural wonder in Europe. Located in Postojna in southwestern Slovenia, these karst caves are like no other!

Created by the Pivka River, the Postojna Caves are massive, almost 25 km (80k feet) long. Yet, they are only the second longest in Slovenia, behind the Migovec system caves. Besides its size, the cave also impresses with its marvelous galleries and rock formations, including stalagmites, stalactites, columns, and curtains.

The experience of visiting the Postojna caves is unique, as you need to take a guided tour that includes taking a train inside them. The tours consist of 3 parts. First, a 3.5km train into the cave, then a 1.5 km hike along the galleries, and finally, another 3.5 km train back to the entrance.

The train ride inside the cave is unique and creates a memory of a lifetime. It’s a rather slow ride, but we feel like being inside an adventure film or a videogame.

Another famous thing about the Postojna cave is the olm, or proteus, the human fish. With a pale appearance, adapted to subterranean life, it is a unique being with biological characteristics (it lives for more than 100 years and can be years without eating) that make it a captivating species for scientific study and a popular attraction for visitors to the cave.

Most people visit the Postojna cave together with the Predjama castle, another famous Slovenian landmark in this list, as they are close to each other and can be visited on the same day. There are even combo tickets for both attractions.

Predjama castle

Imagine a Gothic castle built inside a cave – a spooky and magical castle. That is Predjama Castle. It seems like fiction from a fantasy book, but it exits in Slovenia, 62 km south of the capital Ljubliana.

The castle was built in 1274 by the Patriarch of Aquileia and was later owned by the Luegg family. One of the castle’s most famous owners was Erasmus of Lueg, known as the “robber baron.” There are several legends surrounding Erasmus of Lueg.

The castle was under siege several times and was very resistant. Eventually, in the 16th century, it was destroyed and rebuilt by a different family.

Visiting the castle is one of the most amusing and interesting experiences in Slovenia. You are offered an audio guide with the entrance ticket to explain the history and all the legends relating to the castle. The rooms are decorated in a medieval style, giving you an image of how they lived. Below, above, and behind Predjama Castle is a labyrinth of caves that you can explore with a guided tour.

The castle is a tourist site so we recommend buying the entrance ticket in advance. The castle is very close to Postojna Cave. You can easily visit both on the same day. A combined ticket with the castle and the cave exists and works up cheaper.

Lipica – Stud Farm

Lipica Stud Farm is the home of the Lipizzan horse, a riding horse associated with the Spanish Riding School of Vienna, Austria. Although they are mostly grey, the Lipizzan is known as the white horse; they are powerful and long-lived.

Lipica stud farm dates back to 1580 and is still a functional breeding farm. Lipica has over 300 white Lipizzan horses and over 300 hectares of green space. If you are a horse aficionado, you will love Lipica.

Lipica Stud Farm allows you to visit the horses’ stables, watch the horses’ training, or see a show by the Lipica Riding School, where the horses do difficult stunts. Plus, you can have contact with the horses. The estate also has a hotel, restaurants, and a golf Course.

Even if you don’t want to enter the Lipica Stud Farm or see a show, we advise you to go to the farm. Green spaces with beautiful trees surround it, and at certain hours, you are able to see the horses graze. It is a very cool experience.

Piran

By Martina from PlacesofJuma

Piran in Slovenia is a breathtaking coastal town on the Adriatic Sea’s shores. A visit to its historic old town is a well-kept secret for travelers seeking an extraordinary experience. Accessible within approximately 1.5 hours from Slovenia’s capital, Piran can be conveniently reached by car, bus, or guided tour.

The town’s historical center and captivating Venetian architecture are must-see attractions that adorn nearly every street corner. The Mediterranean ambiance is simply unbeatable, and the local restaurants beckon visitors to savor their culinary delights.

Piran’s old town is uniquely situated on a peninsula, creating a picturesque backdrop with its charming stone houses. Surrounding the old town, an array of stunning beaches awaits, inviting visitors to enjoy a refreshing swim in a splendid setting.

Taking a leisurely stroll through the town reveals a wealth of captivating sights and romantic spots, perfect for moments of relaxation. You can ascend the ancient city walls for a small fee, providing a breathtaking panoramic view.

Among the many highlights, one should not miss the idyllic waterfront promenade, adorned with delightful restaurants offering mesmerizing sea views. Adjacent to the promenade lies Tartini Square, a magnificent main square that hosts a monthly flea market.

However, the most iconic landmark in Piran is the Church of St. George, prominently positioned atop the town. Its towering presence offers an awe-inspiring panorama of the old town and the sparkling sea.

The Piran Salt Pans

By Emily from Wander-Lush

Located just outside the charming city of Piran on the Adriatic Coast, the Piran Salt Pans are a fascinating and underrated landmark in Slovenia.

Dating back to the 9th century, the salt pans encompass different salt fields located in Portorož, Strunjan, and Sečovlje. The area can easily be reached from Piran by walking or cycling along the coastal path or by taking a local bus.

The Strunjan Landscape Park is debatably the most visually spectacular area, with a tall sea cliff hanging over the glossy white bains. The Sečovlje Salt Pans are a great place to learn about traditional salt production via a guided walk or visit to the Salt-Making Museum.

A unique way to experience this landscape is by partaking in Thalassotherapy, a health and beauty treatment that uses local salt and salt water. Lepa Vida Spa in Sečovlje is praised for its therapies. Be sure to sample the local fleur de sel (flower of salt) as well. This specialty ingredient is used by many local chefs in Piran and beyond.

Salt harvesting occurs in summer (from June to September), making this the best time to visit the area. If you can, try to time, your trip with the annual Saltern Festival held in Piran in August. It celebrates Slovenia’s salt-making traditions with markets and live music in Tartini Square.

Famous Landmarks Slovenia – Bled and surroundings

Lake Bled

Lake Bled is the most famous landmark in Slovenia. It is the international postcard of the country. And it is a very picturesque place. It is located in the Julian Alps, 55km northwest of Ljubljana.

Lake Bled is 2,120m long and 1,380m wide, and in the middle of the lake exists a small island, Bled Island, with a church dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. Forests, mountains, and the tourist area with hotels and restaurants surround the lake. Above the lake is a medieval castle built by Emperor Henry II in 1004, which thoroughly enjoyed the lake.

The lake has been a recreational area since medieval times, it was believed to be good for your health, and many people made pilgrimages to the church of Assumption Mary on the traditional boat pletna that still exists today.

Lake Bled is a mandatory stop in Slovenia. It is beautiful and has plenty of activities. Plus, it has the local specialty, the Kremna Rezina, that you must eat in Slovenia. The downside to visiting the lake is it is very difficult to park and drive.

Lake Bohinj

Lake Bohinj isn’t as well known as Lake Bled but is equally beautiful and is the largest permanent lake in Slovenia. It is very close to Lake Bled, only 25 km, and is part of Triglav National Park.

The lake has crystal clear waters in tones of blue and green, you can even see the fish swimming. The impressive Julian Alps surround it. And by the lake exists a gothic church of St John the Baptist built before 1300 alongside a bridge. It is simply a perfect scenery, like a perfect painting.

Furthermore, the lake has plenty of fun activities to do. In the summer, you can swim, ride a boat, kayak, or do a boat tour. There also exist several hiking and biking trails. And nearby, you have the Savica waterfall and Vogel Ski Center, with breathtaking views and several ski tracks.

Vintgar Gorge

The Vintgar Gorge walkways are probably the most popular short hike in Slovenia. And with reason, the Vintgar Gorge is absolutely stunning.

The Radovna River carved this 1.6km gorge with almost vertical walls through the millenniums. At times the gorge with incredibly narrow creating stunning visual effects. The lovely turquoise waters of the river further enhance the beauty of the place.

We also find several rapids, lagoons, and small waterfalls along the gorge. At the end of it, there’s the final highlight, the mighty 13 meters high Šum River waterfall.

Vintgar Gorge is located inside Triglav national park, very close to Bled, one of the most tourist destinations in Slovenia. It is possible to hike from Bled to the entrance or reach it by car.

Visiting the gorge is extremely easy as walkways and wooden bridges were built along it. To enter the walkways, it is necessary to buy a ticket, but you can only hike the walkways in one way. You can’t return. You can learn everything about visiting Vingar Gorge here.

Peričnik Waterfall

Peričnik Waterfall is considered by some the most beautiful waterfall in Slovenia. And we won’t refute it, but besides its beauty, it is one of the most fun waterfalls. First, you can walk behind the waterfall; second, the waterfall has a lower and upper level you can visit.

Peričnik Waterfall is in the Vrata Valley and is part of the Triglav National Park. It is very close to Lake Bled, just 32 km. The road to the waterfall, Triglavska 908, is very picturesque. You follow a Bistrica, with its white and blue colors, surrounded by mountains and forest. The ride itself justifies going to the waterfall.

The waterfall has no entrance fee, but you must pay for the car parking. To reach the Peričnik Waterfall, you need to do a short hike that is quite steep and slippery. The lower waterfall has 52 meters, and you can hike behind it. It is a fantastic experience. You will feel the water passing by, and it is stunning.

You can continue the hike and return to the car. Or you can visit the upper level and walk up the hill. It is a more challenging hike. The upper level is 16 meters high.

Vršič pass

Vršič Pass is a mountain pass that crosses the Julian Alpes. It is the highest pass in Slovenia, reaching 1,611 mt high. It is also known as Russian Road, as it was built in the 19th century by Russian POWs. The pass starts in Kranjska Gora and descends into the Soča Valley.

This is a paradise road for all mountain lovers. To reach the top of the pass, you will drive through 24 ascending hairpin bends if you are coming from Kranjska Gora. At the top, you have breathtaking views of the Julian Alpes.

If you have the courage and stamina, the top of the pass is also a starting point for several hikes. Then you will descend, driving through more than 26 hairpin bends until the Soča Valley.

Throughout the pass, there are several viewpoints where you can pull over to enjoy the amazing views. Also, you may want to stop at some points of interest. Like Jezero Jasna Lake, an emerald-green lake with fantastic views of the Julian Alpes. And the Russian Orthodox Church, built by Russian POWs.

Be aware that during winter, the road is closed due to the snow, so inform yourself beforehand.

Jezero Jasna Lake

By Angie Kunze from We’re Not in Kansas Anymore

Jezero Jasna Lake is located at the foot of the Julian Alps, near Kranjska Gora, a small village in Slovenia. The beginning of the Vršič Pass Scenic drive through Triglav National Park is less than 5 km away Jasna, so if you are headed there, be sure to stop!

Arrival at Jasna Lake is possible either by car or by bus. Car parking is available on the road opposite the lake. You can expect to walk another 2 km from the bus stop if you arrive by bus.

What makes Jasna a famous Slovenian landmark? Crystal-clear emerald-green water produces a mirror-like surface that reflects the surrounding mountains. It is simply breathtaking! This man-made lake is quite a work of art!  

There is an idyllic path that circles the tiny lake. Take a leisurely walk around the lake and stop for refreshments at the lakeside snack stand. Visitors can enjoy summer activities such as swimming, sunbathing, or paddleboarding.

Another option is to simply relax along the shores of one of the prettiest places in Slovenia! There are dining options with amazing views of the lake, and overnight guests at the lodge can spend an evening on the shores of the lake.

Landmarks Slovenia – Soča Valley

Soča River Valley

By Gretchen from Chasing ADVNTR

Tucked into the Julian Alps in the northwest corner of Slovenia, the incredible Soča River Valley is approximately 138 kilometers. The stunning river is known for its turquoise water, adventure sports, breathtaking mountain views, and tragic but rich history. Running among the hills and mountains of Triglav National Park, the Soča River Valley is an important Slovenian landmark.

The Soča River Valley is a popular adventure sports destination, and you will find opportunities for kayaking, canyoneering, rafting, hiking, fishing, and biking.  Most activities center around the crystal clear and blue waters of the river, and you can find small towns dotting the river valley, the largest of which is the town of Bovec.  Exploring these towns lets you immerse yourself in the culture and food of the region.

In addition to the natural beauty, the Soča River Valley has a long history – the entire region was the location of several significant major World War I battles, known as the Isonzo Front. Visitors can explore numerous open-air museums, trenches, and memorials, gaining insights into the harsh realities of war.

You can reach the Soča River Valley and the town of Bovec by road on Route 203 from the north and south of major Slovenian cities like Ljubljana and Kranj. Bovec is 2 hours from Ljubljana and 1.5 hours from Lake Bled.

Kozjak waterfall

Kozjak is a charming waterfall in the Soča Valley near the small town of Kobarid and the also famous Napolean Bridge. This waterfall is 15 meters high, enclosed in a semi-cave, and hidden by tall, dark walls.

To reach the waterfall, you will need to hike for about 30 min. But the hike is well worth doing. It is amazing. You will walk alongside the Soča River and pass by a suspended bridge, a luscious green forest, and small wooden bridges. At the end of the trail, you are rewarded with an amazing waterfall with a turquoise lake.

We went in the low season, so we didn’t have to pay the entrance fee, but from June to September, you need to pay 5€ to visit the waterfall. There is a parking lot at the beginning of the trail, which is paid.

Boka Waterfall

By Carina Klein bucketlist2life

The Boka Waterfall is the highest in Slovenia – of course, this famous landmark belongs on every Slovenia itinerary.

It is located a 10-minute drive from Bovec. The Boka Waterfall can already be seen along the Soca road from Bovec to Zaga. There are parking spaces for hikers on both sides of the bridge over the Boka. Northwest of the bridge starts a sometimes difficult hiking trail to the source of the Boka.

The walking time to the source is about 1.5 hours. An easy hiking trail begins southwest of the bridge, leading into the Boka Valley and closer to the waterfall.

The whole Boka stream is only about 1 km long. The Boka is fed by a spring located at the foot of a vertical cliff. About 30 meters behind the spring, the Boka falls 144 meters in two stages over a width of 18 meters.

The free fall of the first stage is 106 meters, and the second stage another 30 meters – making the Boka Falls the highest waterfall in Slovenia. After a length of 1 km, the Boka flows into the Soca, overcoming a total height of about 550 meters.

The amount of water varies greatly depending on the season and the weather – keep that in mind for your visit.

Tolmin Gorge

By Ben from Ticket 4 Two Please

The Tolmin Gorge is a gorgeous natural Slovenian landmark found at the Southern edge of Triglav National Park, in the very North of the country. 

The gorge is approximately 200m long and 60m deep, making it one of Slovenia’s most impressive and awe-inspiring landscapes. What makes the gorge particularly note-worthy is the narrowness of the cavern walls that create the gorge – they are between 5-10m in places, adding to the ominous sense that the walls are closing in on you.

It is usually recommended that visiting Tolmin Gorge should be part of an extended trip in the Triglav National Park/ Soca Valley region – this area of the country is brimming with the most stunning landscapes found anywhere in Slovenia. 

To visit the Gorge, it is a 2-hour drive from the capital of Ljubljana or around 1hr 45mins from the famous Lake Bled. While there are public buses that make the trip to Triglav National Park, they can be infrequent, so it is always best to hire a car for the day and explore Tolmin Gorge in your own time. 

You’ll likely need around 2 hours to explore Tolmin Gorge fully, and this will provide you with ample time to visit the Thermal Springs, cross the Devil’s Bridge, and marvel at the Bear’s Head – a rock formation caught between the gorge walls that looks eerily like the head of a gigantic bear.

With free on-site parking and entry tickets for as little as €8 for an adult, it is easy to see why Tolmin Gorge has become one of the most visited famous landmarks in Slovenia.

Virje Waterfall

By Lexi of Stylish Packing Lists

Situated in Northwestern Slovenia, Virje Waterfall (Slap Virje) is a stunning natural attraction that is worth visiting. It’s one of the major attractions of a trip to the small town of Bovec because it is an easy hike from the town’s center. The waterfall is swimmable in summer and the surrounding months and the water is so clear you can see the bottom.

From the Slap Virje car park, you’ll be surrounded by trees for most of the walk, and at the end, you’ll be greeted by the beautiful emerald waterfall. While the trail is pretty easy to walk, make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring along some water and lightweight snacks for the hike.

Virje Waterfall is gorgeous in summer, so pack your swimwear so you can go for a swim at the end of your walk. In the shoulder seasons (pictured), the water is still beautiful, although the pool is shallower and may not be the best for swimming. 

If you have a car, the hike down to the waterfall is an easy 10-15 minute walk. The drive from Bovec will take about the same time. It is also possible to walk from Bovec, which takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on how fast you walk. 

If staying at a smaller hotel or b&b, the owner may drop you off, meaning you only need to walk the way back. So make sure to ask at your reception.

Slovenia Famous Landmarks – Maribor

Maribor Plague Column

By Goya Galeotta from Goya Galeotta

Slovenia is known for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landmarks. Among these, the Maribor Plague Column stands as a testament to the country’s tumultuous past, serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of the plague, and offers a glimpse into the region’s history and resilience.

Situated in the central square, Glavni trg, of Maribor, the second-largest city in Slovenia, the impressive Plague Column is a replacement of the original column that was first erected there in 1681, after the end of a plague epidemic that has claimed a third of the city’s population.

However, the column as it currently stands was created by a German sculptor, Joseph Straub, in 1743. It features a gorgeous marble column topped with a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary, symbolizing hope and protection.

Maribor is easily accessible from Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital. The journey takes approximately 1 to 2 hours by train or car, making it an ideal day trip destination, and the monument is conveniently located near the city center.

Visiting the Maribor Plague Monument offers a cultural experience that allows travelers to delve into the region’s history and gain insight into the impact of pandemics. It symbolizes resilience and strength, honoring the victims while showcasing the city’s ability to rebuild and thrive.

Lent in Maribor

By Džangir Kolar from Dr Jam Travels

When you visit Maribor, the second biggest city in Slovenia, you can’t miss out on visiting Lent. Lent (from the old German word Lander, which means landing place) was built in the 16th century, and it is the oldest part of town, lying on the bank of river Drava.

Since medieval times this was a port for rafts on the river where more than 1000 rafts would land yearly. On the east side, it runs up to the Water Tower, and on the west side, it goes to the Court Tower. In between, there are many colorful medieval buildings, such as the Jewish Tower, the Jewish Square, the Old Bridge, Žička Court, the Minorite Monastery, and the Minorite Church of the Assumption of Mary.

But the most prominent would be the House of Stara trta, where the oldest vine in the world grows. The 450-year-old grapevine of the zametovka sort is known far and wide as the oldest in the world that still bears fruit today (Guinness World Record).

Every summer, the Lent Festival takes place here, which is the largest Slovenian outdoor festival and also one of the largest in Europe. At Lent, you can witness raft baptism, the harvest of the oldest grapes, and other traditional events.

Famous Landmarks in Slovenia – Others

Idrija Mines

By Tom from travelpast 50

Idrija, Slovenia, achieved UNESCO World Heritage status because it was the site of the world’s second-largest mercury mine. But another significant industry, and one Idrija is still known for, is lace making.

Mercury mining started in Idrija in 1490 and continued for almost 500 years, only ending when the falling prices and increased knowledge of the poisonous effects of mercury made it no longer economically or ecologically viable to continue the operation.

An abbreviated tour of the original mine is available today. Originally, the mine had 15 levels of tunnels below the town, but all but a couple have been filled in.

But some of the mine’s walls are preserved; in some spots, you can see the colorful red and blue-green strata containing the mercury.

Mercury mining was a deadly profession; most miners died before turning 40.

An ironic fact of life in Idrija is that while the men were working in the fatal environment of the mine, the women mostly occupied themselves making elaborate and beautiful lace. It seems every girl in Idrija still learns lace-making, although few can make a living at it today.

The Municipal Museum is full of lovely examples of Idrija lace, including several characteristically unique asymmetric creations requiring uncanny skill, imagination, and patience.

Ptuj

By Paul D’Souza from Paulmarina

Ptuj is known as the oldest town in Slovenia. A Bronze Age settlement was found, and the Romans made Ptuj an important strategic settlement. At its Roman peak, Ptuj counted over 40,000 souls.

The city, with Maribor, was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire up to 1918, and this has influenced the way of life of the people and the architectural style of Ptuj. You will first notice the orange-red roofs and the neutral-colored stone walls, with the cobbled streets leading up to the medieval castle on the hill.

The castle has various exhibits telling the tale of the city, and you can visit the remarkable castle interiors. Another section talks about the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity-protected carnival of Ptuj, which is known as Kurent.

Walking across the streets will lead you past colorful buildings with small local boutiques. Local handcraft is still celebrated in Ptuj today. Look out for the Dominican and Minorites monasteries and their gorgeous gardens connected to medieval monasteries.

The city is also known for its Roman archeological sites, such as the Mithra shrine and the brickwork kiln. The Ptujska Klet in Ptuj is the oldest winery in Slovenia and one of the oldest in Europe. Tour the cellar, drink outstanding wine, and discover all the things to see in Ptuj.

Velika Planina

By Joanna Neander from Plan Before Land

Velika Planina is a gorgeous alpine region in Slovenia, nestled in the Kamnik Alps. It is one of the lesser-known, albeit famous landmarks of the country, renowned for its pristine beauty and strong connection to Slovenia’s cultural heritage.

The most practical and convenient way to get to Velika Planina is by car. From the capital city, Ljubljana, take the A2 highway and exit at Kamnik. Once in Kamnik, follow signs to Kamniška Bistrica. The cable car parking lot is located here!

Purchase a ticket for the cable cars and ride up into this mountainous heaven. 

If you do not have access to a car, public transport from Ljubljana is available. Many guided tour companies also run from the capital city to Velika Planina. This is a great option for those uncomfortable with driving or public transport! 

Once in the sky, you will be rewarded with vast green meadows, panoramic views of the mountains, and many cows roaming about. 

Velika Planina is a popular spot for those looking for outdoor activities, those interested in learning about Slovenia’s centuries of farming, or those who just want to have some fresh cheese and milk while admiring the sweet cottages, known as “kočas” (pronounced koh-chah).

Velika Planina’s combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and accessibility has made it a famous landmark in Slovenia, attracting tourists and locals seeking adventure and memories to last a lifetime!

Logar Valley

By Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

The Logar Valley is an area of stunning scenery surrounded by the Kamnik-Savinja Alps in northern Slovenia near the Austrian border. It is an easy hour-and-a-half drive from the capital city of Ljubljana to Solcava, the start of the Logar Valley.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love this glacial valley declared National Landscape Park in 1987. Outdoor adventures of the Logar Valley include hiking trails in the valley and surrounding mountains. A short hike to Slap Rinka, the second-highest waterfall in Slovenia, is a must. In addition, a 7 km trail winds the whole length of the valley with interpretive signs along the way to explain the culture and nature of the region.

Cyclists will enjoy biking the quiet roads of the valley. For a jaw-dropping bike trip, cycle the 37-km Solcava Panoramic Road. The sweeping views over the valley make the switchback climb up the mountains totally worth it. Rental E-bikes are available to make for an easier trip. You can also drive the route, stopping at remote farmsteads selling local products.

Accommodation in a tourist farm in the Logar Valley will allow you to soak in the serene vibes of a region based on eco-friendly and sustainable tourism. Visit the Rinka Center to explore the ethnological heritage of the area.