If you’re on the hunt for one of Central Europe’s biggest surprises, look no further than the pint-size nation of Slovenia. Overshadowed by neighbours like Austria, Italy, and Croatia, Slovenia doesn’t quite receive the same hype.
Quickly, however, travellers are catching on to Slovenia’s charms. Whether it’s wandering effortlessly through the timeless streets of the compact capital of Ljubljana or resting among perfect hues of blue with mountains as your backdrop in Bled, more and more travellers are seeing Slovenia as the perfect detour from Europe’s typical tourist track.
Ready to experience one of the the continent’s loveliest corners? Get prepped with help from this quick & easy Slovenia travel guide…
Looking to explore other countries in the region? Check out our Central Europe Travel Guide!
When to visit Slovenia
For such a small country, the weather in Slovenia is surprisingly diverse. Three main climatic zones dominate here to make planning your trip either an amazing experience or one fraught with difficulty.
Along Slovenia’s southern coast, you’ll experience a sub-Mediterranean climate characterized by pleasant temperatures year-round. In the mountainous, expect cold winters and, overall, unpredictable weather. Outside of the coastal and alpine areas, a typical continental climate takes hold, similar to other inland Central European countries like Germany or Czech Republic.
Overall, the best time to visit Slovenia is in either May or September. Both of these months fall within Slovenia’s shoulder season and see warmer temperatures and relatively dry conditions with smaller crowds than in the summer high season.
Where to go in Slovenia
Despite it’s small stature, Slovenia is chock-loaded with diverse destinations that’ll tackle just about any craving you could muster up while journeying through Europe.
Whether you’re keen on wandering through picturesque old towns, hiking through picture-perfect alpine trails or dipping your toes in the Adriatic for a little fun in the sun, these top destinations in Slovenia will get your traveller blood flowin’…
Looking for quick ideas on where to go in Slovenia? Check out these travel resources:
Ljubljana
Almost every trip to Slovenia begins with a foray into the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana. Rarely coming up in conversation (likely because of its slightly tongue-twisting name!), Ljubljana is one of those cities with the rate ability to unexpectedly move you from the moment you start explore.
Much of the touristic action in this adorable city takes place in and around the lively Old Town. Perched upon the banks of the Ljubljanica River, this area is perfect for strolling around and soaking in the traditional Central European charms of Ljubljana.
Elsewhere in the city, you’ll get to dive into Ljubljana’s “green” side. The city teems with relaxing parks that really highlight its residents’ lust for the outdoors and hint at the natural treasures that lie elsewhere in the country.
Ready to plan your trip to Ljubljana? Get started with these resources:
- One Day in Ljubljana: A Complete Itinerary
- Best Things to Do in Ljubljana: Top Attractions & Places to Visit
- Best Day Trips from Ljubljana
- Where to Stay in Ljubljana: The Best Hotels for Travellers
Bled
If you thought Ljubljana was incredible, just wait until you dig your claws into Bled. It’s hardly any surprise that Bled is Slovenia’s most popular destination. Featuring some of the most moving views you’ll experience anywhere on the continent, Bled captivates immediately and forcefully when you first set your eyes upon it.
The region’s namesake Lake Bled sits among Europe’s most stunning natural wonders. It’s crystalline waters are truly something to behold on their own—even without the snow-capped Julien Alps forming a backdrop that’s nothing short of breathtaking.
Even if you become dulled to the views (and, if you do, I seriously recommend taking a break from travelling), there’s a whole barrage of incredible hiking trails in the area including through the fantastic Vintgar Gorge.
Ready to plan your trip to Bled? Get started with these resources:
- Best Things to Do in Bled: Top Attractions & Places to Visit
- Indisputable Reasons to Visit Lake Bled
- Where to Stay in Bled: The Best Hotels for Travellers
Piran
Need a little more sun during your Slovenia adventure? Look no further than the lovely resort town of Piran. Like so many of the best places to visit in Slovenia, Piran’s got the flash and pomp to keep even the most jaded of small-European-town connoisseurs at bay.
Jutting out into the Adriatic Sea on the peninsula, Piran shows off architectural stylings that lean both towards the Venetian influences of its Italian neighbour and the Austro-Hungarian graces of its Central European brethren. What results is an ancient seaside town that’s every bit as impressive & unique as any along the Mediterranean and absolutely begs for your attention when planning out your Slovenia trip.
Transportation in Slovenia
Getting there
By air: The main airport in Slovenia is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU), located about 24 kilometres northwest of the city. Several major airlines fly into Ljubljana—including Adria Airways, easyJet, and Wizz Air—mostly from other European destinations.
By land: The quickest way to get into Slovenia is often by train via the various land borders. There are a direct trains to Ljubljana from Germany (Frankfurt, Munich), Switzerland (Zurich), Italy (Venice) and Austria (Vienna, Graz). From Croatia, buses are often quicker & more convenient than trains.
Getting around
By bus: For travelling between the most popular destinations in Slovenia, buses are often more convenient and faster than trains. Sample journey times from Ljubljana include Bled (1h), Piran (2h), Maribor (2h), and Koper (1h15m).