This article is entirely dedicated to those who are wondering what to see in Slovenia. This country is one of the smallest states in Europe. Despite this, there are a lot of sights in Slovenia, and we will get to know them.
What is the first thing to see in Slovenia?
For a Russian traveler, the described country is exotic. If you decide to go on a trip in this direction, you will not regret it, you will find a lot of interesting and unforgettable things.
1. Predyamsky castle
View of the Predyam castle
It is worth starting sightseeing in Slovenia with a first-class and famous tourist destination far beyond the borders of the country. Its peculiarity is that it is located in a cave, and in the literal sense of the word. Its rocky cliff is a supporting element of the building, and it covers a huge entrance to the cave. The castle became state property only after the end of World War II, since that time it has been undergoing restoration. The building is one of the best attractions, today it is used as a museum for excursions, as well as weddings.
Official website: https://www.postojnska-jama
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2. Postojnska Yama
Postojnska Yama is a famous system of karst caves
Do you want to see with your own eyes one of the most mysterious places on the planet? You go to the labyrinth of karst caves. The description of this place says that it impresses with its vast halls, tunnels, corridors. Fans of extreme sports will also enjoy overcoming various ascents and descents. The nearest settlement to this Slovenian landmark is the city of Postojna. The Pivka River was formed by a system of caves, it has been flowing under its arches for hundreds of thousands of years. When going there, do not forget that the caves are dominated by a constant air temperature, it is + 10 degrees Celsius.
Official website: https://www.postojnska-jama
3. Lake of Bled
An island with the Chapel of the Assumption on Lake Bled
What else to see in Slovenia? Do not ignore the mountain reservoir located in the Julian Alps. It is 500 m from the level of the world ocean, and there is a reserve of national importance in the district. It is named after the highest point in the described area – Triglav. A trip here will be not only interesting, but also useful, because the lake is deservedly considered a balneological resort. Its total area is 1.45 km2, and it attracts attention precisely for its location. In the summer, a variety of sports activities are offered here.
4. Idria Mining town
Recreation area in the mining town of Idria sylaf
For hundreds of years, it has been known far beyond the borders of the country, which has made it a landmark in Slovenia. We are talking about the largest mercury mining center. Despite the fact that the mines have been closed for a long time, the city diligently preserves the values of the region, both historical and cultural. This has turned it into an attractive destination for tourists. What awaits you in the mining town? Here you will get acquainted not only with mining facilities, but also taste national cuisine, buy original souvenirs, and attend unique celebrations.
5. Vintgar Canyon
The nature of the Vintgar Canyon
All guides in Slovenia recommend that guests of the country do not ignore the beautiful gorge of natural origin, located just a few km from the famous Lake Bled. This place never leaves anyone indifferent. A special path for tourists is built of wood along the gorge. Walking along it, you can admire the emerald river, natural mosses, beautiful trees, powerful whirlpools, there is even a waterfall. From the reviews, you can find out that the described area has very “delicious” air.
6. The city of Piran
Giuseppe Tartini Square from a bird’s eye view
The settlement is Slovenian, although it is located 20 km from Italy. Its inhabitants use two languages at the same time, despite the fact that they are completely different. The founders were the ancestors of modern Italians, this is noticeable even in the architecture of the ancient town. It implies an alternation of Roman pediments, Venetian terraces, Florentine bell towers. In numerous photos of this city, we see that it is characterized by narrow streets, they wind through vegetation, which stands out for its picturesqueness. The main attractions here are two squares, one is a legacy of the Middle Ages, and the other is part of a body of water in the past.
Check out the wonderful views of Slovenia in this fascinating video!
7. The Old Town of Ljubljana
Medieval architecture of the Old Town of Ljubljana
We will talk about the capital of Slovenia, which is located between the Alps and the Mediterranean. Scientists have found that the territory of the settlement began to be inhabited in the second century BC. Continuing the review, I would like to say that the Old Town is a pedestrian zone. The sights of Slovenia such as the Churches of St. James, the Annunciation, and the Franciscan Church are presented to the attention of local residents and guests. There is also interest in the Preshen Square, the Republic, the Longovzh Palace.
8. Bled Castle
The former residence of the monarchs on a steep cliff
It looks like an eagle’s nest. It deservedly belongs to the number of interesting places, because it is located on a rocky cliff, which is inaccessible not only in appearance. And the castle rises to 130 m. Waves of a reservoir formed by melting glaciers are splashing below, which happened a huge number of years ago. In old documents, the fortress is referred to as Feldes. Nowadays it is used as a site for exploring the surrounding area. Don’t know where to go in Slovenia? Head to the Bled Castle, from the territory of which you can fully appreciate the views of the Triglav National Park, alpine landscapes that you will not see anywhere else on the planet.
Official website: http://www.blejski-grad.si/en/
9. Socha River Valley
Landscape of the Socha River Valley
This is an area originating from the Triglav National Nature Reserve, and ending with the small university town of Novaya Gorica. The rating of this Slovenian landmark is simply off the scale, because there is a lot of interesting things here. Special attention should be paid to the river itself, which has a turquoise color, it originates deep in a valley surrounded by Alpine mountains. At one time, the valley was used as an important trade route, and large settlements were located on its expanses. Numerous archaeological finds are proof of this. If you are thinking about what to see in Slovenia in 1 day, and are among the adventurous, then the Soca River Valley is the perfect place for you.
10. Stud farm in Lipica
The famous Lipitian horses
Excursions in Slovenia are often organized in this direction. A 60-minute drive from the city of Ljubljana there is a factory on the territory of which Lipitian horses of world renown are bred. It was founded back in 1580. It became a center of tourism and recreation only after the Second World War ended. Paying attention to the recommendations, it is better to come here in early June, when events dedicated to the World Cup in horse dressage are organized.
Official website: http://www.lipica.org/en/
11. Ljubljana Castle
Stone walls of the Ljubljana Castle
It is one of the most famous and attractive sights of Slovenia, in particular its capital. The castle is located in its visual center, and stands on a high hill completely covered with greenery. You can admire it from anywhere in the city, but it is best to go upstairs and enjoy the view of Ljubljana from above. Once this hill was a strategically very important object. The complex includes a Whistler Tower, from which residents of the city were notified of the danger. There is also a Watchtower, it was clearly visible from it when the assaults were being prepared, riots on the part of the locals.
Official website: https://www.ljubljanskigrad .
12. The limestone plateau of Krasus
A unique view of the limestone plateau of Krasus
What to visit in Slovenia? Try to get to the limestone plateau in the northwest of the Balkan Peninsula, you will not regret it. It consists of carbonate rocks that are easily soluble in water. For this reason, we observe karst phenomena. It is worth noting that the vegetation in the described area is quite sparse and grassy, and grapes are grown on fertile soils.
13. Triglav National Park
Mountain peaks in Triglav National Park
If you are thinking about what is so unique to see in Slovenia, stop your attention at a large park named after the highest mountain in the country. It is considered one of the oldest protected areas. At the beginning of the park area, you can observe a small reservoir formed by former glaciers. The landscape of the described area is considered ideal, even man-made structures do not spoil it. Argali people live in the expanses of the national park, and a monument has been erected to them on a large stone.
Official website: https://www.tnp.si/en/learn/
14. Bohinj Lake
Amazing view of Bohinj Lake
It is one of the largest in the country, with 318 hectares of land under its water surface. In its appearance, it somewhat resembles the Norwegian fjords. Like most other reservoirs, it appeared in this area due to the melting of glaciers. It “feeds” from karst springs and small rivers. The peculiarity of this Slovenian landmark is that the lake is home to many fish of various species. If you like fishing, then you are guaranteed a great catch.
15. Logar Valley
Panorama of the Logar valley
This place is one of those that is worth seeing in Slovenia, because alpine tourism is developed here and there is a calm atmosphere. Given the poor accessibility of the valley, you will not have to face crowds of tourists here. When choosing this destination, keep in mind that the possibilities of living here are limited. In order to book a hotel room in Slovenia, it is better to use special services. By properly organizing your trip, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the valley.
16. Otochets Castle
Otocec Castle surrounded by nature
What else to visit in Slovenia? The answer is the most unusual castle of its kind. Its peculiarity is that it is located on a small island, namely in the middle of the Krka River. The fortress was founded by the bishops of Freising, and it belonged to them for more than two centuries, and performed exclusively protective functions. Each owner tried to leave something of their own in the architecture, the changes were not always useful. Among the most significant changes is the drawbridge, as well as the chapel murals. In the XVII century, the building was slightly modified, it became similar to a noble manor. Once it burned down and was abandoned for a long time. But! After a large-scale restoration, the castle was reopened to the public. It even opened a 5-star hotel.
Official website: https://www.grad-otocec.com/ru
Sights of Slovenia: What else to visit in Slovenia?
Did you know that a large number of Slovenian films were shot in cities such as Ljubljana, Piran, Prekmurje. The attractiveness of the country is not limited to the sights of Slovenia described above.
17. The city of Kranj
The center of the Old Town of Kranj
It will be about the old capital of the historical region of Krajina. The settlement is located at the base of the Julian Alps, the number of its inhabitants barely reaches 40 thousand. At one time, an industrial center was formed in it, including enterprises of the chemical and electronic industries. What makes the city even more valuable is its proximity to the borders of Austria and Italy.
18. Celski Castle
The courtyard in the old castle of Celje
It towers over the settlement of the same name and is its symbol. At one time, the castle was subject to reconstruction, since then it has been divided into several parts – the square Frederick tower, buildings for defense and economic purposes. Today, the building is perceived not only as a large fortress of the Middle Ages, but also an excellent platform for exploring the surrounding area. Theatrical performances are often held here, and jousting tournaments are organized. In short, there is something to see in Slovenia, namely in the Celski castle.
Official website: http://castle .grad-celje.com/
19. Tivoli Park in Ljubljana
Tivoli Park in Ljubljana is a place of rest for citizens
It is considered the largest in the entire capital, which is not surprising, because the area of the park area is 500 hectares. It was founded during the stay of the Napoleonic troops. The park is laid out around the palace, which is a typical example of classicism. It combines a small garden around the castle itself and a park near the landscaped Tsekin house. The modern version of the park area was created under the guidance of the famous local architect J.The shoulder guard. It was he who designed the through avenue. Alleys, hiking trails, gazebos with fountains – all this appeared only in the middle of the last century. There are also many cozy corners here.
20. Partisan hospital of Franja
The exposition of the museum Partisan hospital Franja Sl-Ziga
In conclusion, what to see in Slovenia, I would like to draw attention to the secret hospital of the Second World War. It is located in the western part of the state. Soldiers of both warring sides were treated there. Now the hospital has been turned into a museum, it is protected by the state, because it is considered a cultural monument of national importance.
Official website: http://www.muzej-idrija-cerkno .
21. Bohinj Ski Resort
Active recreation at the ski resort
The last thing you need to visit in Slovenia is a resort on the shore of a glacial lake. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is surrounded by the Alps. In summer, in this area you can do mountaineering, ride along mountain rivers, overcome canyons, and paraglide. The ski season starts in December. At any time of the year, your stay here will be unforgettable.
The most popular cities and resorts in Slovenia include not only Ljubljana, Bohinj, Bled and Bovec. There are also such directions as Rogashka Slatina, Maribor, Celje. You can choose any one, the main thing is to prepare in advance for getting to know a new country, then the rest will pass without unpleasant surprises.
Read also about the best sights of Montenegro and be inspired for your further journey through Europe!
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