6 Things to know before you travel to Slovenia

Photo by Miriam Eh on Unsplash

From the turquoise waters of Lake Bled to the subterranean wonderland of Postojna Cave and the lovable capital of Ljubljana, Slovenia has so much to offer travelers. Ahead of our special event next week, here are some handy details to know before you travel to Slovenia. 

One country, four worlds 

At the crossroads of four geographical regions, Slovenia is categorized into four distinct environments.

​Central Slovenia is the location of the capital, Ljubljana, where you can connect with Slovene culture and cuisine. Alpine Slovenia contains one of the oldest national parks in Europe, the Triglav National Park, and provides a multitude of hiking trails and outdoor pursuits. Mediterranean Slovenia features a small yet splendid stretch of coastline along with karst caves, salt pans and vineyards. Thermal Pannonian Slovenia invites you to take it easy and rejuvenate your body and mind in therapeutic hot springs surrounded by tranquil green landscapes. 

Green is the new black

Two-thirds of Slovenia is covered by forest which makes it, literally, one of the greenest countries in Europe. In fact, it was declared the World’s First Green Country in 2016 due to the nation’s commitment to conservation. The mystical primeval Kočevje forests are home to the largest population of brown bears in Europe which you can visit with the help of a professional nature guide. Meanwhile the Bela Krajina region presents a fairytale scene of silver birch forests and meadows that are perfect for cycling. 

​Ljubljana is the city of love

With its colorful town squares, lush botanical Tivoli Gardens and ornate bridges, the Slovene capital is known to captivate anyone who visits. This pedestrian friendly city sits upon the Ljubljanica River and you can enjoy riverside strolls and coffee breaks before weaving your way up to Ljubljana Castle to discover local history. In the Slovenian language, ‘ljub’ means ‘to love’ which is perhaps why anyone who steps foot in the city falls head over heels with the beloved city.  

Unique sites and experiences 

Slovenia has its fair share of incomparable natural wonders besides Lake Bled and Postojna Cave. At Karavanke UNESCO Global Geopark you can paddle your way through an underground cave 700 meters below Mount Peca. Lake Bohinj is a glacial-fed lake that provides watersports and hiking pursuits during summer and ice skating in winter. In the Savinja Valley, you can discover over 160 types of herb before conducting your own herbal brew. 

The perfect self drive vacation

Slovenia is a small nation that registers 7,827 square kilometers (20,271 sq mi) which is around the same size as Massachusetts. This means that you can see much of Slovenia in a short trip and it’s a pleasure to get around either via public transport or as a self drive vacation. Cars drive on the right and there are only a handful of major highways that connect the cities, which makes it hard to get lost.

Continue the journey 

Slovenia shares borders with Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia so you can take day trips across to other European destinations or include Slovenia in a wider itinerary.

Join us on May 13th, 5:00pm for an interactive virtual event all about Slovenia. Roundabout Travel, the Slovenian Travel Board and myself will share our insider tips on traveling in Slovenia and answer any questions you have. Please sign up online for the free presentation to secure your spot.