slovenia
travel guide
SLOVENIA
A hidden gem awaiting discovery, this small country boasts an abundance of captivating landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm-hearted locals make it a must-visit destination. Slovenia's remarkable natural beauty will undoubtedly leave you awe-struck.
ljubljana
Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, is a true gem nestled in the heart of Europe. With its picturesque setting, rich history, and vibrant culture, this captivating city offers a unique experience for travelers seeking something off the beaten path.
You will be treated to enchanting architecture & serene vistas, well-kept green spaces & a commitment to sustainability, a cultural melting pot embracing tradition & innovation and warm & welcoming hospitality.
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Zlata Ladjica — A historic house carefully restored and nestled in the heart of Ljubljana. Each room honors a piece of history immersing guests in the past, present and future of Slovenia.
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Central Market — As the true heart of the city, this lively market consists of both an open-air & covered markets where you will find local crafts, produce and street eats.
Ljubljana Castle — Ride the funicular to the top of Castle Hill where you will take in the breathtaking views of the city, tour the Castle and walk through an exhibition on Slovenian history.
Open Kitchen — A one of a kind food market bringing food lovers and culinary adventurers to the city centre every sunny Friday from March – November.
Shop — Walk the streets and discover a variety of sweet local shops and boutiques. A few of our favorites are Honey House and Piranske Soline has artisanal salt, chocolate and beauty products.
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Ana in Slon — A pop-up restaurant opened by the best female chef in the world Ana Roš. If you have a chance, check out her other location, Hiša Franko.
Cacao — Ice cream! Perfect for a hot day and stroll along the river.
Gujžina — This family owned restaurant transforms Slovenian for vegetarians & vegans. They also make a fantastic pumpkin seed oil!
JB Restaurant — Fancy a fine dining tasting menu? As the first Slovenian restaurant to make it on the list of “Worlds Top 50”, you will not be disappointed.
Slovenska Hiša — Casual “small bite” eatery along the river featuring only local cuisine. The Slovenian Veggie Board was our favorite!
Vigò — Best ice cream in Ljubljana. Don’t miss the dark chocolate with orange. Delectable!
Zlata Ladjica — Not only do they offer a lovely traditional Slovenian breakfast every morning, but the dinner is not to be missed. We spent several evening on the patio people watching, sipping wine and eating. Be sure to also try their flight of local beers.
Zvezda Café — A sweet local Patisserie located along the beautiful Park Zvezda.
Julian alps
The Julian Alps are renowned for their natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. The region is home to numerous protected areas, including Triglav National Park, which encompasses a large portion of the range.
The park offers breathtaking landscapes, alpine flora and fauna, and opportunities for hiking, climbing, and other outdoor activities.
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MILKA — Located in the small town of Kranjska Gora sits a gorgeous, modern boutique hotel with picturesque views. With only 6 rooms, a Michelin awarded restaurant and exceptional staff, you will feel right at home.
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Lake Bohinj — A stunning alpine lake surrounded by lush green forests, towering mountains and crystal-clear turquoise waters. A tranquil escape from bustling city life, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Its picturesque shores are dotted with charming villages and hiking trails.
Vogel Cable Car — Take a panoramic boat ride on an old wooden boat to the Vogel Cable car. Fun fact — All boats on the lake must be paddle or electric. Ride the cable car to the top of the mountain for magestic views and an Alpine lunch at the café.
Lake Bled — An iconic glacial lake with emerald-green waters, a small island adorned with a picturesque church, and a medieval castle perched atop a hill overlooking the lake. The lake exudes a sense of enchantment that captures the hearts of all who visit.
Bled Castle — Take a traditional wooden Pletna boat to the island, ascend the 99 stone steps to the Assumption of Mary Church and ring the bell for good luck. The surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of the lake's shores.
Krnici Trail — A captivating hiking trail winding its way through majestic peaks and lush greenery. Along the way you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the mighty Mount Krn. Breathe in the fresh alpine air and experience the tranquility of the Slovenian countryside.
Russian Chapel — A solemn and evocative wood structure serving as a poignant memorial to the Russian prisoners of war who tragically perished during World War I while constructing the Vršič Pass road.
Zelenci Nature Reserve — Just a short hike from the road is a captivating and ecologically diverse natural gem, known for its stunning emerald-green springs, lush wetlands, and rich biodiversity.
Tamar Trail — Begin at the Planica Nordic Centre, famous for its ski jumping hills, and meander through breathtaking alpine scenery. Follow the trail through lush green meadows, dense forests, and panoramic mountain views. Pass by the crystal-clear waters of the Tamar River. Along the way, take a rest at a charming alpine hut and enjoy local delicacies.
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Pino Alpino — A quintessential Alpine restaurant & wine bar. We ate there two nights in fact, sitting on the beautiful patio and people watching.
MILKA — The breakfast each morning is a traditional Slovenian spread, beautiful and delicious. Take advantage of happy hour, grab a glass of wine or a craft cocktail, sit on the patio, and enjoy the spectacular views. Dinner is a regional culinary experience where every bite is a delectable memory. The chef curates a beautifully presented menu paired with unique and local wines — not to be missed!
Café Belvedere — Taste the famous Bled Cake & sip on bubbles on the patio at Villa Bled. You are in for a treat.
Mihov Dom — Stop here to enjoy local Apline cuisine while soaking up the stunning views from the patio. We shared the Ћganci z ocvirki (Buckwheat with cracklings) and Mushroom soup. Very filling but perfect after a long hike. The inside of the quaint structure smells like heaven so be sure to pop inside!
Like the winding rivers that flow through the country, Slovenians embrace visitors with open arms, sharing their rich history, traditions, and culinary delights.
day trips
Small but mighty, you can get from one side of the country to the other in just about 2 hrs. Make Ljubljana your home base and take day trips to the Julian Alps, the Mediterranean coast and magical wine region.
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The Postojna Caves in Slovenia are a mesmerizing underground wonderland, renowned for their stunning stalactite formations, expansive chambers, and the unique experience of riding a train through the labyrinthine network of subterranean passages.
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Piran is a delightful coastal town on the Slovenian Adriatic coast, known for its charming medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and picturesque harbor, offering a delightful blend of history, culture, and seaside beauty.
Have lunch at La Bottega di Sapori. A small, family-owned, restaurant with exceptional food and a view of the main square.
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Climb the 144 stairs of the Gonjače Lookout Tower built in 1961 representing the central point of Brda. Enjoy breathtaking views of all four points of the compass: the Alps and Dolomites to the North, the Friulian plain to the West, the Trieste Gulf and the Karst to the South, and the Trnovo forest and the Vipava Valley to the East.
Šmartno is a picturesque hilltop village in Slovenia's Brda wine region, characterized by its medieval walls, narrow streets, and panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards, showcasing a timeless charm and a rich cultural heritage. Treat yourself to a lunch at Hiša Marica, tucked away in an adorable alley.
A trip to Brda wouldn’t be complete without tasting fantastic wine! The Brda wine region is a fairy-tale union between the Julian Alps and Mediterranean Sea. Visit Marjan Simčič Domaine for organic wine highlighting the region, unique terroir and amazing an family that has dedicated their lives to their passion for winemaking.
