26 Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia: The Ultimate List

Starlet of the Balkans, sunny side of the Alps: The tiny nation of Slovenia is a sight to behold. Read on for the best places to visit in Slovenia.

From the fairytale-like capital city of Ljubljana, with its dragon bridge and Baroque architecture, to the dozens of castle-topped towns that dot the Carnolian countryside, the iconic Lake Bled at the foot of the Julian Alps all the way to Istria’s Adriatic coast, Slovenia is one beautiful landscape after the next.

From north to south, east to west, it’s all dazzling lakes, verdant valleys and sprawling vineyards.

Whether you’re in the process of planning the perfect Slovenia itinerary or you’re just looking for some travel eye-candy, this list showcases the best of Slovenia, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the cutest cities and villages, and the most majestic natural landscapes on offer.

Here are 26 of the most beautiful places to visit in Slovenia:

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Beautiful Cities in Slovenia

1. Ljubljana

It’s not all that often that a country’s capital can be counted among its most beautiful destinations. But Ljubljana, Slovenia’s biggest city, is a rare exception.

Elegant in every sense of the word, the Slovene capital is the product of centuries of history and some very considered city planning, mostly at the hand of one man, Jože Plečnik, who took inspiration from Ancient Athens when moulding his hometown.

The painted Plečnik House, the pink Franciscan Church of the Annunciation and the stately Central Market building that overlooks the river are among Ljubljana’s star attractions.

For the best city views, head up to Ljubljana Castle, the beautifully restored stone fortress that crowns the city. The meandering streets of the Old Town stretch out at the foot of the castle hill, divided by the Ljubljanica river from the newer part of the city.

Moving between the two halves requires crossing one of half a dozen quaint bridges: The Triple Bridge, Cobblers’ Bridge and Dragon Bridge are all gorgeous.

Where to stay in Ljubljana: Art Hotel offers bright boutique-style rooms in the heart of Ljubljana Old Town. Ask for a room on the upper level, where the private balconies overlook the city’s red rooftops.

2. Maribor

The compact city of Maribor, the second-largest city in Slovenia, isn’t as popular as some other destinations in the country, but it’s still well worth a visit. Located in the eastern part of Slovenia near the border with Austria, Maribor is well connected with Ljubljana as well as with Graz and makes for a perfect stop when travelling between these two cities.

Maribor was founded in the 12th century and was an important stop on the Drava river. Badly destroyed during WWII, today Maribor is one of the most underrated cities in Central Europe.

The centre is small but charming, with beautiful architecture from the times of the Habsburg Empire and numerous cafes and bars, busy with people until the late night hours.

The prettiest place in Maribor is Glavni Trg (Main Square), the largest square where you can find the Town Hall, the first brewery in Maribor, and the former casino.

The nearby Lent district, located on the bank of the Drava river, is the oldest part of the city and is very pleasant as well. This is also where you can find the oldest grapevine in the world – it’s been growing in this very place for over 400 years.

Maribor and the surrounding region are big on the European wine scene, so make sure you visit a few of the vineyards right outside the city. With so many great things to do in Maribor, you won’t ever get bored!

By Kami from Kami and the Rest of the World

Where to stay in Maribor: Hotel Maribor City Apartments offers modern self-contained apartments in the Old Town, with secure parking on site.

Take a day trip to Maribor: This full-day trip from Ljubljana shows you the best the 2012 European Capital of Culture has to offer and also visits the town of Ptuj and the vineyards.

3. Koper

Another of the most beautiful places in Slovenia is the city of Koper, the country’s 6th largest city and one of few large coastal communities. Koper is located in the southwestern part of Slovenia on the Adriatic Coast, just 5 kilometres from the Italian border. You can easily visit on a day trip from Italy.

The Venetian Empire ruled over this part of Slovenia for hundreds of years and they certainly left their mark on the architecture, as you can see in the many plazas, fountains and Renaissance-style facades that make up the historic core. Roam around to discover the quaint little streets, stopping in at some of Koper’s best cafes for delicious food along the way.

The Old Town is the most beautiful part of Koper, with the 15th-century Venetian Gothic-style Praetorian Palace in the centre. Today, the city government is housed inside the building.

For beautiful views of the Bay of Trieste, head down to the marina and city beach. More secluded swimming spots can be found on the stony stretch of coastline to the north and south of Koper. 

By Dymphe from Dymabroad

Where to stay in Koper: Casa Mia Apartments & Suites offers stylish self-contained rooms close to the promenade and city centre.

4. Kranj

Kranj, well-known as the capital of the Slovenian Alps, is one of the most beautiful and wonderfully outré places in Slovenia. With a 6,000-year-old history, a fascinating culture, incredible culinary scene, strategic location, and imposing views of the highest peaks of three mountain ranges (Triglav, Stol and Grintavec), Kranj packs a punch indeed.

Of the many unique things to do in Kranj, walking the cobbled streets of the Old Town is perhaps the best. Often named one of the best historical towns in Slovenia, Kranj Old Town opens up steadily. As you stroll the streets and gaze around the beautiful squares, be sure to check the Špital Tower, Prešeren’s House, Pungert and Khislstein Castle. Each provide clues to Kranj’s historical and cultural background.

Another gem in Kranj is the tunnels built under the Old Town during WWII. You can walk the tunnels on your own or join a guided tour for a comprehensive experience. Don’t leave Kranj without hiking the Kokra River Canyon, the second-highest city canyon in Europe.

Kranj is located between Bled and Ljubljana and makes for a great stopover if you’re driving from Ljubljana to Lake Bled or vice versa.

By Anjali from Travel Melodies

Where to stay in Kranj: Apartment Na Skali is a nice place to stay in Kranj because of its super-central location and welcoming host who takes good care of his guests.

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Beautiful Slovenian Villages & Small Towns

5. Piran, one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia

The most beautiful town on the Slovenian Riviera, Piran is a historic Venetian settlement with a long and storied past. Built atop a small peninsula that juts into the Adriatic, the main part of town is a sea of terracotta-coloured rooftops that faces onto the Bay of Trieste, hemmed in by a sloping hill and fortress walls at the rear.

Old Piran centres on Tartini Square, a glimmering Italian-style piazza with a tiny inner harbour on one side, and a ring of pretty pastel facades on the other. From there, you only need an hour or two to traverse the entire town on foot.

Start by walking the length of the coastline up to Punta, the point of the peninsular marked by a small lighthouse, then work your way back to the square by following the stone passageways and snaking streets of the Old Town. Along the way, you’ll find a multitude of cafes, seafood restaurants and small shops selling sea-inspired souvenirs.

For the best views of Piran, head first to the Town Walls to summit the stone steps and look directly down on the peninsular and bay. An alternative (and just as beautiful) view can be found from the top of the bell tower adjoining St. George’s Parish Church. This vantage point looks directly down over Tartini Square.

Where to stay in Piran: Apartments Lara is a terrific self-contained space in the centre of Piran with a full kitchen for self-catering and a private rooftop terrace.

6. Skofja Loka

An easy day trip from Ljubljana, Skofja Loka embodies all the charm small-town Slovenia is associated with. It boasts a classic semi-circular stone bridge (the Capuchin Bridge), historic cobbled streets lined with painted houses, a meandering waterway, and of course a magnificent castle to top it all off.

While away a day in Skofja Loka by walking the two opposing hills for views over the town. The restored 13th-century Loka Castle itself is well worth a visit for the extraordinary museum encased within the medieval castle walls. For a hit of nature, take any one of the hiking trails that branch off behind the city walls.

Be sure to eat a traditional Slovenian lunch in the Old Granary (Kašča), which has been transformed into a delightful restaurant. It’s one of the top foodie experiences in Slovenia. It’s mandatory to finish your day with a glass of local wine at Kavarna Homan, the oldest inn in Skofja Loka, before heading back to Ljubljana.

Where to stay in Skofja Loka: If you want to linger a little longer, Hotel Garni Paleta sits right on the river offers simple, modern rooms. Breakfast is included in the nightly rate.

7. Kamnik

The medieval town of Kamnik in northern Slovenia is an off-the-beaten-track destination that is well worth a visit. With a picturesque Old Town, Bavarian castle ruins and some incredible landscapes, Kamnik is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Slovenia. Nestled in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, just 45 minutes from the country’s capital Ljubljana, it’s a town rich in history, culture and beauty.

Visitors can wander down the main street of Šutna, stopping off for shopping and snacks along the way, before visiting Mali grad and Stari grad, the town’s two castle ruins, and the impressive Franciscan Monastery. Travellers can also hike or take the cable car up to Velika Planina (aka Big Pasture), a summer settlement for shepherds and their animals (more on Velika Planina below).

While the charming town of Kamnik is relatively unknown, it is surprisingly easy to get to from Ljubljana by train or bus. Tickets cost less than 5 Euro each way.

By Chrysoula from Historic European Castles

Where to stay in Kamnik: If you’re looking to stay in Kamnik as opposed to visiting as a day trip from Ljubljana, the central Hotel MD is a great choice. The hotel features spacious comfortable rooms, a bar, garden, terrace and free WiFi throughout and there is parking on-site too.

8. Velika Planina

For an incredible European destination, head to one of the very best places in Slovenia – the historic mountain plateau herdsmen settlement of Velika Planina. Plan your trip in summer or early autumn before the winter weather sets in.

This mountaintop destination near Kamnik is an easy one-hour day trip from Ljubljana on a well-marked road. The easiest and most scenic way to get to the top is by cable car then onto the chair lift where the panoramic views are incredible.

Hiking is a big attraction here, with marked trails that double as cross-country skiing trails when the snows come. Visit the tiny museum and hike to the historic herdsman settlement with its uniquely designed wooden huts. It’s best to hire a guide or join a tour to learn about the history of the cow herders.

On Christmas Eve, Mass is celebrated at the Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows. Visitors arrive by candlelight making for a magical experience.

The stunning views of the surrounding Kamnik-Savinja Alps are worth the trip alone, and a perfect backdrop to the bright green pastures, bucolic settlement and wild flowers of the plateau.

But for the tinkle of cow bells on the wind before the herds are taken back down in September, it’s serenely quiet at the top. When visiting Slovenia, hiking Velika Planina is a must.

By Lori from Travlinmad

9. Kranjska Gora

Kranjska Gora is a beautiful mountaintop town nestled in the Julian Alps, close to Triglav National Park and about an hour from Ljubljana.

This is a picture-perfect town that is ideal for walks. Get out and about with a drive over the Vršič Mountain Pass to the Soča Valley, which is packed full of activities and active sport opportunities.

Kranjska Gora really comes alive in wintertime, though. If you’re looking for one of the best ski resorts in Europe for families, then it should absolutely be on your list. With a kind, gentle manner, Slovenians are perfect for getting everyone confident on the slopes. And there can’t be many places more beautiful to do it. 

When it comes to additional activities, there’s horse riding, and also the opportunity to head to Liznjek House, which has an amazing collection of period furniture and tools to give you a real insight into the lives of people who have made Kranjska Gora home through the ages.

By Nichola from Family Hotel Expert

Where to stay in Kranjska Gora: Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, stay at the Ramada Resort in the centre, which is the perfect base to get out and explore this picturesque alpine town.

10. Kostanjevica na Krki

With a history dating back to 1252 and just 703 inhabitants, Kostanjevica na Krki is both one of oldest and smallest towns in Slovenia. Protected as a cultural and historical monument, it’s located in Dolenjska region at the northern foothills of the Gorjanci, between the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, and the capital of Croatia, Zagreb. You can visit Kostanjevica from either city in around one hour.

What makes this town so beautiful is the fact that it’s set on a small island just 500 metres by 200 metres in the river Krka. In fact, it’s often referred to as the ‘Venice of Lower Carniola’ (Dolenjske Benetke in Slovene).

Straight out of a fairytale, the island has just one circular road, two wooden car bridges and one additional bridge for pedestrians. After a walk amongst the medieval buildings, you can sit at the Kmečki hram, a local inn with a nice garden. If you’re hungry, duck is the best thing on the menu.

In the summer time you can swim, fish, go paddle boarding or canoe to enjoy the green river. For a cultural experience, you can find the Božidar Jakac gallery inside the Cisterian Abbey just 3 minutes’ from town. For nature lovers, Kostanjevica cave and the or primeval oak forest at Krakov are both in close proximity. 

By Džangir from Dr Jam Travels

Where to stay in Kostanjevica na Krki: For accommodation on the island, I recommend B&B Castanea.

11. Portoroz

Set back from Piran and encompassing a long stretch of the Slovenian Riviera, Portoroz (the ‘Port of Roses’) is a popular seaside resort town with a posh beachfront and harbour.

The coastal town was developed as a health retreat in the 19th century and became known for its public baths and luxurious sanatoriums, including the Palace Hotel which was frequented by the Austro-Hungarian monarchy.

But long before it came into vogue as an elite retreat, Portoroz was an important trading port and the centre of Slovenia’s salt industry. One of the most beautiful landscapes in this part of the country is the vast salt pans around Portoroz that were used to harvest precious crystals of sea salt. Salt and brine also formed an important part of the health and beauty regime for spa visitors. A few of the resorts still offer these traditional treatments today.

Like Piran, Portoroz was part of the Venetian Empire, which left an impression on its architecture and city planning. There are also a number of important churches in town that date back to Byzantine times, including the Church of St. Bernadine, which stands prominently on a hill overlooking the bay.

Portoroz can be reached from Piran on foot or bicycle by following the wide seafront promenade that connects the two towns.

Where to stay in Portoroz: Hotel Kempinski Palace is set within the walls of the old Palace Hotel and offers luxury rooms and spa treatments right on the waterfront.

12. Ptuj

Inhabited since the late Stone Age, Ptuj holds the title of Slovenia’s oldest recorded city. Today the town is home to fewer than 20,000 people and is the perfect size for exploring on foot.

Mirrored in the glassy waters of the Drava river, Ptuj’s Old Town features ornate bell towers and stately hilltop castles that rise above a jigsaw of rooftops. On closer inspection, the streets of Ptuj’s historic quarters are every bit as pretty as the distant view promises.

Much of the town’s architecture dates back to the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and it suitably furnished with floral flourishes and sloping arches.

Ptuj’s historic parish church, town hall and Dominican Monastery are among its notable landmarks. The striking Orpheus Monument in the town’s main square is a hint to an earlier chapter of Ptuj’s history, when it fell within the boundaries of the Ancient Roman Empire.

There’s beauty in Ptuj’s local culture, too. Try to time your visit to coincide with the Kurentovanje festival, a 10-day extravaganza dedicated to the coming of spring with roots in the region’s Slavic pagan traditions.

Where to stay in Ptuj: Apartment Little House is a self-contained cottage near Ptuj Castle that sleeps up to four people.

Take a day trip to Ptuj: If you’re short on time, this full-day trip to Ptuj from Ljubljana stops off in the city of Maribor and the surrounding wine country, too.

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Beautiful Lakes in Slovenia

13. Lake Bled

No place captures Slovenia’s postcard-perfect natural beauty quite like its most iconic lake. Bled is the poster child for tourism in the country, and it’s not hard to see why.

Bled is located in Upper Carniola, the region of northwestern Slovenia close to Ljubljana and the Julian Alps. While you can easily travel to Bled from the capital by coach or car and back in a day, it’s recommended to spend at least one night lakeside.

An early morning or late-night walk around the water’s edge will give you an entirely different, decidedly more tranquil perspective on Slovenia’s most popular tourist attraction.

Aside from stretching your legs on the trail that encircles the lake’s entire perimeter, other highlights include touring Bled Castle, a medieval fortification perched on a cliff overlooking the lake, and venturing out to Bled Island (Blejski otok) to visit the petite pilgrimage church. In the latter case, the only way to travel is by pletna, a traditional wooden boat.

One of the most beautiful sights at Bled is the ranks of pletnas with their decoratively painted tails and striped awnings arranged on the lake’s edge.

The most breathtaking views of Bled are from the hills above the lake. Follow the marked trail to the Mala Osojnica viewpoint from the western end of the lake for a classic panorama. As a reward for completing the strenuous hike, you can treat yourself to a square of kremšnita, a decadent cream cake made to a Hapsburg-era recipe and a much-loved culinary tradition in Bled.

Where to stay in Bled: For the full Bled experience, don’t look past Grand Hotel Toplice, one of the world’s best small luxury hotels.

Take a day trip to Lake Bled: This popular itinerary includes transfers from you hotel in Ljubljana and allows for ample time at the lake plus a visit to Bled Castle.

14. Lake Bohinj

While Lake Bled may be Slovenia’s most notable lake, Lake Bohinj, just 30 minutes away, is the country’s largest permanent lake.

Visitors can follow a 12 km path that winds around the lake’s perimeter. Traverse small forests and alpine meadows as you take in the beauty of the vibrant waters. During the warm summer months, you’ll find swimmers, kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddle-boarders enjoying the crystal-clear lake.

On the eastern shore of Bohinj Lake, the 700-year-old Church of St. John the Baptist is adorned with 14th century frescoes. To get a bird’s eye view of the lake and its gorgeous alpine surroundings, take a mile-high (1,535m) journey on the Vogel cable car, just minutes away. Also nearby is a hike to the popular Savica Falls.

Because of its distance from city lights, Lake Bohinj is a wonderful place to take in the night sky as well. Indeed there is no shortage of ways to appreciate the beauty of Slovenia’s Bohinj region.

By Toccara from Forget Someday

Where to stay at Lake Bohinj: Vila Park B&B is a wonderful accommodation in Ukanc on the lake’s western shore.

Take a day trip to Lake Bohinj: This alpine lake tour from Ljubljana combines a visit to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.

15. Lake Jasna

The shores of Lake Jasna are perhaps the closest you’ll come to a white-sand beach in the Slovenian alps. Located on the Pisnica River in the north-west corner of the country, just 10 minutes shy of the Austrian and Italian borders, Jasna might be a man-made lake, but it’s still a slice of Slovenian paradise.

Jasna is actually not one but two interconnected lakes. If you’re not visiting as a side trip from Kranjska Gora or when driving through on the scenic Vrsic Pass, you can overnight on the shore at one of the chalet-style resorts purpose-built for maximum relaxation.

Walking paths skirt the lake’s pretty shoreline, while a trail through the nearby Mala Pisnica valley leads you through forested terrain. Take note of the statue depicting a chamois’s Zlatorog (golden horn), which is tied to nearby Mount Triglav’s origin story.

This is the perfect departure point for Triglav National Park and the more secluded hiking trails and lakes nestled within the park.

Where to stay at Lake Jasna: Vila Triglav is ideally positioned in the hills just above the lake and offers stunning panoramic views from the generous outdoor terrace.

Take a day trip to Lake Jasna: On this day tour from Ljubljana to Triglav National Park, you’ll visit Jasna Lake, Pericnik waterfall, and other natural landmarks in the area.

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Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia for Nature: Parks, Valleys, Caves & Mountains

16. Triglav National Park, one of the best places in Slovenia for adventure

Slovenia’s sole national park and largest protected area (it encompasses an astounding 4% of the country’s total territory), Triglav is the prime Slovenian destination for trekking and adventure activities.

The combination of rugged beauty and convenience (the gateway to Triglav is less than an hour’s drive from Ljubljana) makes it a popular choice for tourists and locals alike. Thus it can get quite busy in the warmer months – but don’t let that deter you, there are still quiet spots to be found if you travel deeper into the park.

Triglav encompasses the eastern part of the Julian Alps and some of Europe’s finest hiking trails, including the summit hike to the country’s tallest peak, Triglav. The distinctive crest of this mountain forms a backdrop to many other beautiful places in Slovenia featured on this list – and here’s your chance to see the massif up close.

Shorter, less strenuous hikes including the Seven Lakes Valley, Slemenova Špica path, Savica Waterfall and Peričnik Waterfall hikes and the Soca River Trail are also available, along with scenic drives. Don’t miss the stunning Russian Chapel (Ruska kapelica), a church nestled in the forest that was built in memory of those who constructed the road.

Depending on which trails interest you, you can base your stay in Kranjska Gora, Bled, or in any other of the small towns and mountain villages around the park’s boundary.

Take a day trip to Triglav: This day tour from Ljubljana fits in the best Triglav Park has to offer, including numerous viewpoints, a short hike and a visit to Jasna Lake.

17. Vintgar Gorge

Located in northwestern Slovenia in Triglav National Park, Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6 km-long gorge carved out by the Radovna River. It’s one of the most magical places in the whole country and since it’s only 5km away from the famous Lake Bled, it can easily be included in any Slovenia itinerary. You can find a few hotels and apartments near Vintgar Gorge, but it’s best to stay at Lake Bled and visit as a day trip.

The easiest option is to arrive with a car, but there is also a shuttle bus that runs from Bled several times a day in the summer season. Parking lots fill up very quickly so it’s recommended to arrive early in the morning (this way you can also avoid the crowds). Entrance to the gorge costs 10 Euro per person, and it’s typically accessible between 7am and 7pm.

The path through the Vintgar Gorge mostly consists of wooden walkways, but there are some sections where you need to walk on gravel paths. The panoramas are simply stunning – besides the emerald-green river, you’ll come across natural lakes, cascades including the Šum Waterfall, and even a large stone bridge along the way.

By Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

Take a day trip to Vintgar: This self-guided 4-hour bike tour from Bled is an ideal way to explore the gorge. The price includes bike hire and a skip-the-line ticket.

18. Mangart Saddle

For a small nation, Slovenia’s list of things to see and do is overwhelmingly long. The country’s legendary hiking trails outshine the lesser-known route to the Mangart Saddle (Mangarskte Sedlo) – which is unfortunate, because it’s definitely an unforgettable travel experience.

Located in the mountains right on the border between Slovenia and Italy, Mangart Saddle is a scenic drive through the country’s highest-lying Route 902, a narrow road built close to the edge of the cliffs. There’s just enough room for two cars to drive past each other slowly, and for both drivers to hold their breath while manoeuvring.

Each time you make yet another breathtaking hairpin, it opens up new stunning panoramas of the mountains, making the whole experience well worth the dare.

Entrance to the Mangarskte Sedlo road comes with a fee of 5 Euros. The drive takes around 40 minutes to complete. From the parking lot at the end, there are several options to continue the journey by road.

The easiest route is a short and scenic hike to the mountain terrace that opens views of Laghi di Fusine. The second, more daring option is summiting Mangart Mountain, which requires special equipment and certain skills.

By Inessa from Through a Travel Lens

Where to stay near Mangart Saddle: The road to Mangart Saddle starts not far from Bovec. This town has plenty of budget-friendly and comfortable hotels and hostels, including Soca Rocks, which also sells great hiking, rafting, and canyoning tours for adventure seekers.

19. Goriska Brda

Goriška Brda is commonly referred to as the ‘Tuscany of Slovenia’, and for very good reason. This small region reaches the border with Italy and has vineyards as far as the eye can see. What ground isn’t covered in grape vines is planted with fruit trees. Cherries are a specialty in early summer. 

With more vineyards than you can count, your days can be filled with wine tasting and wine cellar tours. Rebula is the most notable and beloved variety stemming from the region. 

Other than sipping wine with incredible views, it’s recommended to visit Gonjače Viewing Tower, Dobrovo Castle, and Šmartno, a medieval walled town that is a cultural heritage monument. Nestled in the centre of Smartno is Marica Hiša, which is highly recommended for a meal. The menu changes weekly based on seasonal and local ingredients, and it’s also possible to book a room for the night here.

The best way to visit Goriška Brda is with your own car, but it’s also possible to take the bus with Nomago to Dobrovo or Smartno. From May until September, a Hop On bus is available in the region for just 5 Euros a day. 

By Helene from Wandering Helene

Where to stay in Goriska Brda: House Marica in Smartno has comfortable rooms and a terrific locavore restaurant on-site.

20. Soca River Valley

The Soča River Valley is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Slovenia. While it’s one of the most popular day trips from Ljubljana (or Bled), the valley is also a place where you can spend a few days – especially if you love nature or adventurous activities.

The first thing that will strike you when you see the Soca River is its impossibly stunning aquamarine colour. And the best place to see the river in its full force is from the Napoleon Bridge in the little town of Kobarid. It’s possibly the best spot for photos, too.

Along the length of the river, towns like Bovec offer adventures including kayaking and river rafting. You can also swim in the river, or dip your feet in the crystal clear water if it is too cold to hop in. There are many places in the valley where you can scramble down to the banks.

If you enjoy hiking, there are a number of beautiful trails along the river that you can walk as well. One popular route leads over the suspension bridge in Kobarid to the Kozjak waterfall.

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Where to stay in the Soca Valley: Hotel Hvala Superior is a great place to stay in Kobarid in the Soča Valley. The hotel offers bikes for hire and has an on-site restaurant.

21. Boka Waterfall

Vying for the title of the most beautiful waterfall in Slovenia, Boka Waterfall (Slap Boka) is the highest cascade in the country at a mighty 144 metres tall. The double-level karst spring is also one of the most powerful waterfalls, especially in spring and autumn when snow melt enhances the roaring torrent.

Boka is located in the country’s west, close to the Italian border, in the foothills of the Kanin mountain chain. (Just up the road, there’s another famous waterfall, Slap Virje. Both can be visited as a day trip from the Soca Valley) The vertical rock wall at Boka is extremely impressive, but even cooler is the fact that this waterfall gets a little bit deeper every year: The sheer power of the water is eroding the rock at the bottom. Currently the falls reach a depth of 30 metres.

With temperatures averaging 4.5 °C, the turquoise waters at Boka are a tad too chilly for swimming. Instead, follow the water down to the Soca river, where adventure sports including white water rafting and canyoning are on offer.

22. Bela Krajina

Situated at the southernmost point of the country, Slovenia’s Bela Krajina region is all about quirky folklore, handicrafts, wine, excellent food, and a lot of greenery.

First, the River Kolpa captivates you with its striking green colour and quiet flow. It also acts as a border between Slovenia and Croatia. You can go on a walk or on the hiking trails along the banks of the river to soak up the natural beauty of the place. You can also explore the river in a boat or by kayaking.

Črnomelj, Metlika and Semič are just a few of the towns in the region to explore. Go for a wine tasting as well – Bela Krajina has a wide range of local wines including Portugalka, Belokranjec PTP and Metliška črnina PTP, best sipped with Slovenia’s traditional welcome bread, pogača on the side. You can also attend a workshop to learn how to make pogača.

The most intriguing thing to see in Bela Krajina is the Romarski kompleks Tri Fare complex, with its three churches enclosed within one churchyard. Two Orthodox churches and the only pair of Greek Catholic churches in Slovenia are also located in the region. The Bela Krajina Museum and historic water mill are also worth visiting.

By Nisha & Vasu from Le Monde, the Poetic Travels

Where to stay in Bela Krajina: Big Berry on the banks of river Kolpa overlooking the Croatian side is highly recommended. It has many activities for all ages.

23. The Logar Valley

A vast sea of pea-green meadows flanked by pine trees and the silhouette of distant peaks, the most famous of Slovenia’s glacial valleys, the Logar Valley (Logarska Dolina), takes ‘natural beauty’ to a whole other level. Seated at the foot of the Kamnik Alps in the shadow of some of the country’s most dramatic mountains, the valley is prime territory for hiking and biking in summer, and for winter sports in the colder months.

Apart from the splendid landscapes that speak for themselves, this part of Slovenia is also culturally rich. The sparsely populated Logar is home to a distinctive alpine cuisine, vibrant festivals and traditions, and a special vernacular architecture.

Many of the isolated farmsteads double as lodging for tourists so you can really immerse yourself in the pastoral way of life. Choose from any one of the sweet turistična apartments at the northern end of the valley for a perfect base.

The best way to explore the Logar Valley is by following the marked ethnographic trail that highlights the best of the area’s vistas and cultural heritage. Don’t miss the Logarski Kot Herdsman’s Hut, the Chapel of Christ the King, and the dozens of kašče wooden granaries that define the landscape.

Where to stay in the Logar Valley: Turistična kmetija Gradišnik is a picture-perfect mountain cabin with easy access to the valley and trails.

Take a day trip to the Logar Valley: This guided tour from Bled passes through the magnificent Logar Valley on the way to 1000 Springs, where you have the option to go paragliding over one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.

24. Zelenci Nature Reserve

Zelenci Lake is yet another breathtakingly beautiful lake that Slovenia holds within its borders. The surrounding Zelenci Nature Reserve is one of the more remote and lesser-visited of the country’s parks.

Zelenci Nature Reserve is a petite 47 hectares of pristine alpine terrain. Its location in the far-northern corner of the country, close to the town of Kranjska Gora and on the road to Mangart Saddle, makes it accessible from bordering Italy and Austria too.

Zelenci is a waterworld. The park is the source of the Sava Dolinka river that feeds into the Danube, which in turn flows all the way to Budapest and beyond. The swampy contours of the park are divided by a long wooden footbridge that allows visitors intimate access. Here you can often see flocks of nesting birds and other wildlife if the season is right.

The deep emerald lake itself is the real gem and gives the park its name (zelena is the Slovenian word for ‘green’). Framed by an unreal backdrop of scalloped mountaintops (including the peak of Triglav), the views as you complete the easy hike around the lake edge are simply breathtaking.

The area looks amazing in winter, when a carpet of pure-white snow makes the lake appear almost incandescent. Spring is also a pleasant time to visit, when willows and arrowgrass hug the shore and the birds start to arrive for the season.

Where to stay near Zelenci Nature Reserve: There are several cosy guesthouses in the beautiful village of Rateče, just 1.5km from the entrance to Zelenci. Guest House Vila Moj Mir is set inside a sweet mountain cabin and is a destination in its own right.

25. Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle, the largest cave castle in the world and the most iconic of all cliffside castles, is pure magic and belongs in a fairytale. Built against the cliff-face and partly inside a cave, it blends in perfectly with its environment and is one of the most popular attractions in Slovenia.

The current castle was built in 1570. Wandering around the grounds guided by the excellent audio tour, it’s easy to feel like you’re a character in a medieval novel. The best part of course is peering into the secret karst cave behind the castle. It had a functional purpose, allowing soldiers to secretly supply the castle during a siege.

The most famous inhabitant of the castle was the knight Erazem, who sought refuge inside the castle after his plundering angered the Emperor. The army besieged the castle, but even after almost a year, the inhabitants still did not starve nor surrender.

Predjama Castle is located roughly 10km from the caves at Postojna, which makes it very easy to combine the two sights. If you’re driving, park your car at either spot and use the shuttle bus that connects the two sights during the summer months.

By Manouk from Groetjes uit Verweggistan

Where to stay near Predjama Castle: The beautiful Hotel Kras is highly rated and very close to the caves. It also gives easy access to Predjama Castle.

Take a day trip to Predjama Castle: This full-day tour from Ljubljana includes a visit to both Predjama Castle and the Postojna Caves. A private guide, transfers and entrance tickets are all included in the price.

26. Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave might not be conventionally beautiful, but this natural wonder embodies a particular kind of beauty – the kind that comes from millions of years of being shaped by the elements.

The cave’s chambers are characterised by jagged stalagmites, stalactites and unique formations called ‘draperies’ that resemble pleated curtains. Illuminated by soft lights, the twisted rocks take on a mysterious, alluring character.

Slovenia’s second-largest underground cave system, Postojna is located in the country’s west, roughly 50km from Ljubljana on the banks of the Pivka river. The caves were first documented in the 17th century but their history dates back much further than that, with evidence that they were used by humans for shelter from as early as the 13th century.

Today, the Postojna Cave system is one of Slovenia’s top tourism destinations. Visitors can observe a 5km stretch of the 24km-long cave system by walking a set of pathways or riding the underground train – the first of its kind in the world when it opened in 1872.

Postojna and Predjama Castle are separated by a 10-minute drive so it makes sense to pair the two for a half-day of sightseeing.

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I hope this compilation of the most beautiful places in Slovenia has given you some inspiration for planning your Slovenia itinerary!

If you’re headed to the Balkan countries soon, remember to check out my Balkans Travel Guide and Balkan road trip planner for more advice.

What is the most beautiful place in Slovenia in your opinion? Anything you’d like to add to the list? Let me know in the comments below.

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