Places to Visit in Slovenia

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

You have heard much about this country, but you don’t know what places to visit in Sloveniainfo-icon?

Slovenia is a tiny Central European country, an ex-Yugoslavian state, and a surprisingly beautiful place. Its famous neighbors (Austriainfo-icon, Italyinfo-icon, and Croatiainfo-icon) attract so many visitors that sometimes can be tiring to stay in line for sightseeing. The price is often high, as well. But what are you actually looking for?

If you want beaches and seaside resorts, Slovenia has a splendid coastline to the Adriatic Sea. If you want mountains, snow, and winter sports, Slovenia has the Slovenian Alps. If you want medieval cities, baroque architecture, and history lessons, Slovenia has them too.

There are plenty of beautiful places in Slovenia. First time you will be surprised, but the second time you will come as a friend. And then, you will just keep coming back.

Slovenia is that perfect place you don't want to tell your friends about because you just want it for yourself. 

Slovenia is a European Union member and also a Schengen Area and Eurozone member. Besides their Slovenian language, people here often speak English and German. Travelling to this country is a joy, especially if you like road trips or boat trips.

Maribor

Places to visit in Slovenia

If you are coming from Austria, Maribor is the first city to visit in Slovenia. Maribor is an old city, dated in the 12th century, with a vibrant and youthful present. It is a university city, a cultural center, and the second largest city in Slovenia.

Almost all of its history, the city was governed by the Austrian Habsburgs and this can be easily seen in the city's architecture. Visit the old city (called Lent) and check out the Main Square and the City Hall, museums (the National Liberation Museum, the Regional Museum), churches and cathedrals. Take a walk along the Drava River, stop for a coffee or for lunch in one of the many restaurants around, and be curious about the local cuisine because it is delicious.

The most famous place in Maribor is not a castle or a church is actually the oldest vine in the world and its museum, the Old Vine House. The vine is more than 400 years old and it is the reason for many events, festivals, and celebrations (Pruning of the Old Vine, St. Martin’s Day, and the Old Vine Festival).

Maribor is surrounded by the Pohorje hills, with a beautiful countryside life and ski resorts.

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia

Ljubljana

The capital, Ljubljana, is definitely on the list of places to visit in Slovenia. A green city, Slovenia was the European Green Capital in 2016 and it is ranked among the top 100 green destinations in the world. The city offers sustainable life, but also a beautiful old town, a lot of pedestrian and cycling areas, parks, museums, cafes and restaurants with terraces along the river. The best way to visit this city is walking or cycling. This way you will be sure you are not missing anything.

Visit Ljubljana's castle, situated on a 375 meters high hill, right in the middle of the city. The castle was built in the 16th century and hosts a Watchtower, a chapel, a Slovenian History Exhibition, a Puppet Theater, and a Time Machine. Take a walk in the Old Town, visit the Roman Ruins, admire the Triple Bridge and the Dragon Bridge with their exquisite designs. And for a complete tour of the city, visit the Central Market to taste, smell, and be amazed by the delicious local food.

Like the Slovenians say, Ljubljana is a city with a green soul, peaceful, and picturesque.

Lake Bled

Stunning Lake Bled

Only 55 km away from Ljubljana, in the heart of Julian Alps, there is Lake Bled, a lake with mixed glacial and tectonic origins. It is 2 km long and 1.4 km wide which makes it perfect for walking and cycling. The landscape is breathtaking and attracts many tourists, but also rowing enthusiasts. The World Rowing Championship was held here four times.

A castle and a beach complete the walk around the lake. In summertime, swimming in the lake is a pleasure.

Lake Bled is also home to the only island of Slovenia. On the island, there is the Assumption of Mary Church where you can make a wish and ring the bells. The locals say it is a sure method to make your wish come true. You can visit the island by traditional wooden boats.

Postojna

Postojna castle

On the list of places to visit in Slovenia, there is one of the largest caves in the world. Postojna is a karst cave, about 20 km long, with chambers up to 50 meters high. A train will take you on a 90 minutes tour, in a world of stalactites and stalagmites. Next to the cave, there is an adventure park, with swing bridges, ropes, and climbing nets. Only 9 km away is Predjama Castle, bursting out of a cave. It was once the home of a legendary knight. A visit to Postojna will fill a day with excitement, adventure, and legends.

If one word could describe Slovenia it would have to be charming. A place of stories, serenity, and love for nature, Slovenia is welcoming and knows how to make your journey unique.

Monica Radulescu a freelance writer for aSabbatical.com
Travelling is a joy. It's a way to become a better and wiser person. Mountain paths and road trips are my favourites.