Slovenia packs a lot into a small footprint. Within its borders, travelers will find snow-capped peaks, beaches on the Adriatic Sea, pint-size medieval towns, and a green capital city.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan a trip to Slovenia:
Things to do
Visit Ljubljana
Slovenia’s capital has a thriving arts scene and ample walking and biking paths. Wander Old Town and be sure to stop at Prešernov Trg (the main square) and the Triple Bridge. Then, swing by Central Market for snacks to take on the funicular to the medieval Ljubljana Castle for a picnic.
Hike the Juliana Trail
Writer Peggy Orenstein trekked 10 sections of the Juliana Trail, starting in Kranjska Gora and ending in Bovec, over nine days. The trail’s official website explains the various sections and provides information on mileage, elevation gain, and scenic viewpoints. For assistance with planning, contact the booking center, which will help organize an itinerary and offers luggage forwarding.
Catch the view at Lake Bled
For some of the best views of this Alpine lake, head up to Bled’s clifftop castle, which was first mentioned in written records in 1011. From the ramparts, visitors can see Lake Bled’s island, which is accessible by traditional, wooden pletna boats. Once on the island, ascend the 99 stairs to the church to ring the wishing bell.
Where to eat and drink
Photo by Julia Nimke
Aljažev Dom
Set in Triglav National Park, the shingled Aljažev Dom lodge is a popular spot for a post-hike lunch. Named after Slovenian mountaineer, writer, composer, and priest Jakob Aljaž, the restaurant offers apple strudel and house-made soups.
Bled Castle Restaurant
Superlative wines, stellar views: Located in Bled castle, this restaurant also serves a five-course tasting menu with seasonal dishes (such as a Krškopolje pig filet with sweet potato purée, roasted baby cabbage, and chimichurri). Reservations are a must.
Kosobrin
A family-run log cabin restaurant and guesthouse in Kranjska Gora, Kosobrin focuses on hearty Slovenian classics, such as dumplings, sausages, and cream cakes.
Hiša Franko
Chef Ana Roš Stojan’s Michelin-starred restaurant in Kobarid, some 75 miles northwest of Ljubljana, draws visitors for its multicourse tasting menu, which is centered on foraged and seasonal ingredients—think watermelon, pimpinella, cucumber, and langoustine from the Kvarner Gulf in the northern Adriatic Sea.
Where to stay
Hikers on the Juliana Trail can experience sauna culture at the Hotel Bohinj in Ribčev Laz.
Photos by Julia Nimke
Grand Hotel Toplice
Book now: From $250 per night. sava-hotels-resorts.com
Paul McCartney and former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright have both been guests at this hotel, which dates to the mid-19th century. The furnishings are decidedly Old World— expect heavy brass keys and antique furniture in the 87 rooms, 28 suites (many of which have balconies overlooking Lake Bled), and presidential apartment. The property is a member of Small Luxury Hotels and includes a spa, a terrace bar, and an indoor mineral pool.
Kendov Dvorec
Book now: From $200 per night. relaischateaux.com
This Relais & Châteaux hotel is located a couple miles north of Idrija. Historically known for lace and its now-closed mercury mines, the town today draws cyclists, fly-fishing enthusiasts, and hikers. Originally built as a home in the 14th century, the mansion has 11 rooms and landscaped gardens.
InterContinental Ljubljana
Book now: From $175 per night. ihg.com
Slovenia’s first five-star hotel has 165 modern rooms with generous windows, deep soaking tubs, and marshmallow-soft bedding. Take advantage of breakfast: The restaurant is on the 20th floor, with impressive views of the city.
Hotel Bohinj
Book now: From $215 per night. hotelbohinj.si
A few minutes’ stroll from Lake Bohinj, this property has an Ecolabel certificate from the European Union for its sustainability practices. It counts 62 rooms, a salt wall room, saunas, and hot tubs among its offerings.
