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Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Switzerland, Greece, Croatia, Montenegro and Italy… You are most certainly familiar with these amazing European countries.
But, what about a hidden gem this time? Beautiful Slovenia. Because, as we like to say in Croatia, Slovenia is always a good idea.
Slovenia is a small European (Balkan) country that borders Italy, Hungary, Croatia and Austria. The official language is Slovenian, but they will understand you in English. And when it comes to money, they will “understand” you in euros.
No worries; you will feel very safe and welcome here. Also, before you visit, keep in mind that our Slovenian neighbors value hard work, discipline and an active lifestyle. So, if a Slovenian tells you they have planned a nice hike for you, be cautious because you may end up with muscle inflammation.
Slovenia Hidden Gems
Joking aside, let’s go a little off the beaten path and discover the best hidden gems of this beautiful, small European country.
Logarska Valley
I remember the first time I saw the Logarska Valley, I was delighted. When I discovered this natural beauty in neighboring Slovenia, it immediately went high on my travel bucket list. Fresh air, untouched nature and mountain peaks of the Alps above 2000 meters make a real Slovenian fairytale.
This beautiful place is the perfect day trip for body and soul. And if you’re looking for the must-visit tourist hotspots, visit the 90-meter-high Rinka waterfall and drink something in the Eagle’s Nest (if you dare because it’s “hanging” from the rock.) I guarantee that both your heart and phone memory will be full at the end of the day.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for the perfect photos, take a ride on the incredible Sločava panoramic road. You’re welcome!
Soča Valley
Do you know those destinations that are beautiful in photos but not so much in person? The Soča Valley is definitely NOT one of them. This turquoise fairytale is formed by the river Soča, which flows through beautiful landscapes and is surrounded by the peaks of the Julian Alps.
You will especially enjoy Soča Valley if you are a fan of adrenaline because here you have nice kayaking and rafting options, as well as the largest zipline in Europe. If you are thinking about swimming, but you are like me, forget about it because the temperature of the Soča River does not rise above 15 degrees even in summer. But, guaranteed, you’ll have great fun anyway.
Piran
If you want to experience something similar to Istrian Rovinj, visit the coastal town of Piran. If you don’t know what our Croatian summer hit destination Rovinj is like, in short: Mediterranean vibe, old town, fresh seafood, narrow streets, colorful facades, and the Adriatic Sea.
Piran is a small town where you can see everything in a few hours, but I am quite sure that you will want to stay longer.
Triglav National Park
Slovenia is such a beautiful country full of natural beauty that it is a miracle that it has only one national park. Triglav National Park is, therefore, a must-see tourist destination.
Its area is 84 thousand hectares, so it’s best to plan your day. Here are some suggestions: Peričnik waterfall, Kozjak waterfall, Pokljuka, Bohinj Lake (which I will definitely write more about in this article), Zelenci Lake and the amazing Vintgar.
Also, put Triglav National Park somewhere at the top of your Slovenian bucket list if you are a fan of hiking. Actually, put Triglav National Park somewhere at the top of your Slovenian bucket list. No “if”.
Lake Bled
Okay, Lake Bled is not a hidden gem; it is probably the most popular Slovenian tourist destination, but I can’t write about beautiful places in Slovenia without mentioning the magnificent Lake Bled.
It is a green lake with a beautiful small island in the middle of it. Sure, it would not be the same without the stunning scenery: Slovenia’s oldest castle, lush vegetation and the Alpine Mountains.
In addition, Lake Bled has many interesting legends. One such legend is about how the islet was formed as a revenge of the fairies against the shepherds (my favorite). Also, what rings at the bottom of Lake Bled and many more.
Oh, yes, I almost forgot: be sure to try the Bled Cream Cake. If you ask me, this is the type of legend we want.
Postojna Cave
As a unique experience that delighted me, I recommend Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. It’s worth visiting because it’s definitely something we don’t see every day.
You will enjoy the train ride through the Postojna cave, explore one of the world’s largest karst cave formations and see human fish. Do you know that it was believed that the human fish was a descendant of dragons? Even today, it is believed that there is something mythical about them.
Also, be ready for lower temperatures because it is quite cold in Postojna Cave. And did I mention it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Izola
Izola is another “Instagram-worthy” coastal town in Slovenian Istria, where you can spend your days strolling through the old town and enjoying fresh seafood, Mediterranean vibes and colorful facades.
You can also, relax at one of the beaches, such as Svetilnik Beach, and swim in the Adriatic Sea’s crystal-clear waters. Or you can take a boat trip to, for example, neighbouring Croatia.
Lake Bohinj
If you want something similar to Lake Bled but more wild and less touristy, go to Lake Bohinj. It is one of Slovenia’s best hidden gems. I mean, just look at the photo.
I suppose you’ll know what to do once you arrive at Lake Bohinj, but here are a few suggestions: Take a boat trip and enjoy the beautiful views, walk the trail around the lake (it’s very nice, but keep in mind it’s 11.5 kilometers long); and take a ride with the cable car.
If you treat yourself to an apple strudel at the end and do nothing else, it will already be one of those days when you return to your apartment and say, “I really needed this.”
Ljubljana
Okay, Ljubljana isn’t a hidden gem, but it is a gem, so we’re good, right? Despite being vibrant and urban, Ljubljana is the greenest city in Europe, with the highest number of green spaces per person. This is the Slovenian city that we Croats like to take as a destination for a road trip.
Slovenia’s capital city is a tourist destination with charming cobblestone streets, a laid-back atmosphere, bridges, charming cafes, Baroque buildings, modern glass towers and contemporary art installations.
Ljubljana is small enough that you can walk to most of its sights, but I recommend getting on a boat and admiring the city from the river too.
Take a walk through Prešeren Square, walk over the Ljubljana bridges (almost as if you were in Venice) and see why it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. By the way, did you know that in the past, Ljubljana was an important Roman settlement?
Škocjan
I have several reasons why you should visit the amazing Škocjan, one of the largest underground canyons in the world. A river Reka (river River) flows through it (which makes Škocjan special compared to other caves). Its rooms, where you will walk, are one of the largest cave “rooms” in the world, and it is stunning. Of course, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sounds interesting enough to visit Škocjan and Slovenia in general? I think so too.
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Katarina Marjanović is a travel writer at Go World Travel Magazine. She studied Croatian language and literature at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Science in Zagreb. She is a freelance columnist, writer, influencer, and content creator. Additionally, she is the author of three books and the owner of a publishing and service company.
