Europe
Slovenia
Continent
Best States to Visit
- Drava
- Mura
- Carinthia
- Savinja
- Central Slovenia
Best Cities to Visit
- Ljubljana
- Maribor
- Koper
- Kranj
- Piran
Size
20,271 KM2
Population
2,078,938
GDP
$48,769,655,479
Spending Budget
$91 - $1,274
Famous For
- A remarkable 53.6 per cent of Slovenia is protected land. Slovenia is one of the greenest countries in the world
Best Time to Visit
- June
- July
- August
History
The history of Slovenia chronicles the period of the Slovenian territory from the 5th century BC to the present. In the Early Bronze Age, Proto-Illyrian tribes settled an area stretching from present-day Albania to the city of Trieste. The Slovenian territory was part of the Roman Empire, and it was devastated by the Migration Period's incursions during late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages. The main route from the Pannonian plain to Italy ran through present-day Slovenia. Alpine Slavs, ancestors of modern-day Slovenians, settled the area in the late 6th Century AD. The Holy Roman Empire controlled the land for nearly 1,000 years, and between the mid-14th century and 1918 most of Slovenia was under Habsburg rule. In 1918, Slovenes formed Yugoslavia along with Serbs and Croats, while a minority came under Italy. The state of Slovenia was created in 1945 as part of federal Yugoslavia. As a constituent of the Federal People’s Republic of Yugoslavia, Slovenia underwent a complete restructuring of its economy, politics, and society along Stalinist lines. Following the rupture between Tito and Stalin in 1948, however, conditions improved. Over the next two decades, Slovenia managed to achieve greater prosperity than the southern Yugoslav republics under the unique economic system known as “socialist self-management”—designed largely by Tito’s chief ideologue, the Slovene Edvard Kardelj. Slovenia gained its independence from Yugoslavia in June 1991. Slovenia reoriented its politics and economy toward western Europe and forged closer bonds with the countries of the European Union.
Present Day
Slovenia, officially the Republic of Slovenia is a country in Central Europe. Slovenia is a small but topographically diverse country made up of portions of four major European geographic landscapes. Slovenia is mostly elevated. Outside the coastal area, its terrain consists largely of karstic plateaus and ridges, magnificently precipitous Alpine peaks, and valleys, basins, and arable or pastorally useful karstic poljes. Slovenia’s flora reflects the country’s physiographic diversity, especially its varying elevations. Slovenia is a developed country, with an advanced high-income economy; ranking very high in the Human Development Index. It is a member of various international organizations, including the European Union, the Eurozone, the Schengen Area, the OSCE, the Council of Europe and NATO. Slovenia may be a small country, but it is positively packed with beauty. Cities, castles, soaring mountains, picturesque beach towns, idyllic lakes, and even wine country: whatever kind of beauty you prefer, there’s no doubt that you can find it in at least one of these best places to visit in Slovenia.
Future
Slovenia’s commitment to balanced and fair development across the globe is reflected through its contribution to development cooperation and humanitarian aid. Slovenia shares global responsibility for eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities and achieving the SDGs. National Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid Strategy by 2030 puts two cross-cutting themes at the heart of Slovenia's action: environmental protection and gender equality. Slovenia’s Spatial Development Strategy 2050 sets five strategic spatial development goals: Rational and efficient spatial development; Competitiveness of cities; Quality of life in urban and rural areas; Strengthened spatial identity; and Territorial resilience, multifunctionality and adaptation to changes. The role of spatial planning in tackling global challenges such as environmental sustainability and climate change is addressed in the Territorial Agenda 2030 under the objective of ‘A Green Europe’. The three related priorities are also relevant for Slovenia’s Spatial Development Strategy 2050: A ‘Healthy Environment’, of which ecosystems and their services are an important part, is operationalised through a national green infrastructure system which connects, and consists of, various green urban systems that are also important elements of municipal spatial plans. Guidelines for urban development determine the components of these systems (e.g. parks, playgrounds, urban forests, water surfaces), their characteristics, functions and accessibility criteria. Another key element of urban renewal in Slovenia refers to ‘Sustainable Connections’. The Spatial Development Strategy emphasises that a different design of cities and neighbourhoods, based on the concept of mixed land use, as well as access to high-quality communication networks can reduce mobility needs in both urban and rural areas.
Ljubljana
It’s not all that often that a country’s capital can be counted among its most beautiful destinations. But Ljubljana, Slovenia’s biggest city, is a rare exception. Elegant in every sense of the word, the Slovene capital is the product of centuries of history and some very considered city planning. For the best city views, head up to Ljubljana Castle, the beautifully restored stone fortress that crowns the city. The meandering streets of the Old Town stretch out at the foot of the castle hill, divided by the Ljubljanica river from the newer part of the city.
Maribor
Maribor was founded in the 12th century and was an important stop on the Drava river. Badly destroyed during WWII, today Maribor is one of the most underrated cities in Central Europe. The centre is small but charming, with beautiful architecture from the times of the Habsburg Empire and numerous cafes and bars, busy with people until the late night hours. Maribor and the surrounding region are big on the European wine scene, so make sure you visit a few of the vineyards right outside the city.
Koper
Another of the most beautiful places in Slovenia is the city of Koper, the country’s 6th largest city and one of few large coastal communities. The Venetian Empire ruled over this part of Slovenia for hundreds of years and they certainly left their mark on the architecture, as you can see in the many plazas, fountains and Renaissance-style facades that make up the historic core. Roam around to discover the quaint little streets, stopping in at some of Koper’s best cafes along the way. The Old Town is the most beautiful part of Koper, with the 15th-century Venetian Gothic-style Praetorian Palace in the centre.
Kranj
Kranj, well-known as the capital of the Slovenian Alps, is one of the most beautiful and wonderfully outré places in Slovenia. With a 6,000-year-old history, a fascinating culture, incredible culinary scene, strategic location, and imposing views of the highest peaks of three mountain ranges, Kranj packs a punch indeed. Of the many unique things to do in Kranj, walking the Old Town is perhaps the best. Often named one of the best historical towns in Slovenia, Kranj Old Town opens up steadily.
Piran
The most beautiful town on the Slovenian Riviera, Piran is a historic Venetian settlement with a long and storied past. Built atop a small peninsula that juts into the Adriatic, the main part of town is a sea of terracotta-coloured rooftops that faces onto the Bay of Trieste, hemmed in by a sloping hill and fortress walls at the rear. Old Piran centres on Tartini Square, a glimmering Italian-style piazza with a tiny inner harbour on one side, and a ring of pretty pastel facades on the other. From there, you only need an hour or two to traverse the entire town on foot.
Skofja Loka
Skofja Loka embodies all the charms of a small-town that Slovenia is associated with. It boasts a classic semi-circular stone bridge, historic cobbled streets lined with painted houses, a meandering waterway, and of course a magnificent castle to top it all off. The restored 13th-century Loka Castle itself is well worth a visit for the extraordinary museum encased within its walls. For a hit of nature, take any one of the hiking trails that branch off behind the walls.
Kamnik
The medieval town of Kamnik in northern Slovenia is an off-the-beaten-track destination that is well worth a visit. With a picturesque Old Town, Bavarian castle ruins and some incredible landscapes, Kamnik is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Slovenia. Nestled in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, just 45 minutes from the country’s capital Ljubljana, it’s a town rich in history, culture and beauty. Visitors can wander down the main street of Šutna, stopping off for shopping and snacks along the way, before visiting Mali grad and Stari grad, the town’s two castle ruins, and the impressive Franciscan Monastery.
Velika Planina
For an incredible European destination, head to one of the very best places in Slovenia – the historic mountain plateau herdsmen settlement of Velika Planina. Hiking is a big attraction here, with marked trails that double as cross-country skiing trails when the snows come. Visit the tiny museum and hike to the historic herdsman settlement with its uniquely designed wooden huts.
Kranjska Gora
Kranjska Gora is a beautiful mountaintop town nestled in the Julian Alps, close to Triglav National Park and about an hour from Ljubljana. This is a picture-perfect town that is ideal for walks. Kranjska Gora really comes alive in wintertime, though. If you’re looking for one of the best ski resorts in Europe for families, then it should absolutely be on your list. With a kind, gentle manner, Slovenians are perfect for getting everyone confident on the slopes.
Kostanjevica na Krki
With a history dating back to 1252 and just 703 inhabitants, Kostanjevica na Krki is both one of oldest and smallest towns in Slovenia. Protected as a cultural and historical monument, it’s located in Dolenjska region at the northern foothills of the Gorjanci, between the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, and the capital of Croatia, Zagreb. What makes this town so beautiful is the fact that it’s set on a small island just 500 metres by 200 metres in the river Krka. In fact, it’s often referred to as the ‘Venice of Lower Carniola’.
Portoroz
Set back from Piran and encompassing a long stretch of the Slovenian Riviera, Portoroz (the ‘Port of Roses’) is a popular seaside resort town with a posh beachfront and harbour. The town was developed as a health retreat in the 19th century and became known for its public baths and luxurious sanatoriums, including the Palace Hotel which was frequented by the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. But long before it came into vogue as an elite retreat, Portoroz was an important trading port and the centre of Slovenia’s salt industry. One of the most beautiful landscapes in this part of the country is the vast salt pans around Portoroz that were used to harvest precious crystals of sea salt.
Ptuj
Inhabited since the late Stone Age, Ptuj holds the title of Slovenia’s oldest recorded city. Today the town is home to fewer than 20,000 people and is the perfect size for exploring on foot. Mirrored in the glassy waters of the Drava river, Ptuj’s Old Town features ornate bell towers and stately hilltop castles that rise above a jigsaw of rooftops. On closer inspection, the streets of Ptuj’s historic quarters are every bit as pretty as the distant view promises. Much of the town’s architecture dates back to the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and it suitably furnished with floral flourishes and sloping arches.
Bled
No place captures Slovenia’s postcard-perfect natural beauty quite like its most iconic lake. Bled is located in Upper Carniola, the region of northwestern Slovenia close to Ljubljana and the Julian Alps. While you can easily travel to Bled from the capital by coach or car and back in a day, it’s recommended to spend at least one night lakeside. An early morning or late-night walk around the water’s edge will give you an entirely different, decidedly more tranquil perspective on Slovenia’s most popular tourist attraction.
Lake Bohinj
Lake Bohinj, is the country’s largest permanent lake.Visitors can follow a 12 km path that winds around the lake’s perimeter. Traverse small forests and meadows as you take in the beauty of the vibrant waters. During the warm summer months, you’ll find swimmers, kayakers, canoers, and stand-up paddle-boarders enjoying the crystal-clear lake. Because of its distance from city lights, Lake Bohinj is a wonderful place to take in the night sky as well.
Lake Jasna
The shores of Lake Jasna are perhaps the closest you’ll come to a white-sand beach in the Slovenian alps.Located on the Pisnica River in the north-west corner of the country, just 10 minutes shy of the Austrian and Italian borders, Jasna might be a man-made lake, but it’s still a slice of Slovenian paradise. Jasna is actually not one but two interconnected lakes.
Triglav National Park
Slovenia’s sole national park and largest protected area, Triglav is the prime Slovenian destination for trekking and adventure activities. The combination of rugged beauty and convenience, makes it a popular choice for tourists and locals alike. Triglav encompasses the eastern part of the Julian Alps and some of Europe’s finest hiking trails, including the summit hike to the country’s tallest peak, Triglav. The distinctive crest of this mountain forms a backdrop to many other beautiful places in Slovenia
Vintgar Gorge
Located in northwestern Slovenia in Triglav National Park, Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6 km-long gorge carved out by the Radovna River. It’s one of the most magical places in the whole country and since it’s only 5km away from the famous Lake Bled, it can easily be included in any Slovenia itinerary.
Mangart Saddle
Located in the mountains right on the border between Slovenia and Italy, Mangart Saddle is a scenic drive through the country’s highest-lying Route 902, a narrow road built close to the edge of the cliffs. There’s just enough room for two cars to drive past each other slowly, and for both drivers to hold their breath while manoeuvring. Each time you make yet another breathtaking hairpin, it opens up new stunning panoramas of the mountains, making the whole experience well worth the dare.
Goriška Brda
Goriška Brda is commonly referred to as the ‘Tuscany of Slovenia’, and for very good reason. This small region reaches the border with Italy and has vineyards as far as the eye can see. What ground isn’t covered in grape vines is planted with fruit trees. Cherries are a specialty in early summer.
Soča River Valley
The Soča River Valley is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Slovenia. The valley is also a place where you can spend a few days – especially if you love nature or adventurous activities. The first thing that will strike you when you see the Soca River is its impossibly stunning aquamarine colour.
Bela Krajina
Situated at the southernmost point of the country, Slovenia’s Bela Krajina region is all about quirky folklore, handicrafts, wine, excellent food, and a lot of greenery. First, the River Kolpa captivates you with its striking green colour and quiet flow. It also acts as a border between Slovenia and Croatia. You can go on a walk or on the hiking trails along the banks of the river to soak up the natural beauty of the place. You can also explore the river in a boat or by kayaking.
Logar Valley
A vast sea of pea-green meadows flanked by pine trees and the silhouette of distant peaks, the glacial Logar Valley takes Slovenia’s natural beauty to a whole other level. Seated at the foot of the Kamnik Alps in the shadow of some of the country’s most dramatic mountains, the valley is prime territory for hiking and biking in summer, and for winter sports in the colder months. Apart from the splendid landscapes that speak for themselves, this part of Slovenia is also culturally rich. The sparsely populated Logar is home to a distinctive alpine cuisine, vibrant festivals and traditions, and a special vernacular architecture.
Zelenci Nature Reserve
Zelenci Lake is yet another breathtakingly beautiful lake that Slovenia holds within its borders. The surrounding Zelenci Nature Reserve is one of the more remote and lesser-visited of the country’s parks. Zelenci Nature Reserve is a petite 47 hectares of pristine alpine terrain. Zelenci is a waterworld. The park is the source of the Sava Dolinka river that feeds into the Danube, which in turn flows all the way to Budapest and beyond. The swampy contours of the park are divided by a long wooden footbridge that allows visitors intimate access.
Predjama Castle
Predjama Castle, the largest cave castle in the world, is pure magic and belongs in a fairytale. Built against a cliff and partly inside a cave, it blends in perfectly with its environment. The current castle was built in 1570. Wandering around the grounds guided by the excellent audio tour, it’s easy to feel like you’re a character in a medieval novel. The best part of course is peering into the secret cave behind the castle. It had a functional purpose, allowing soldiers to secretly supply the castle during a siege.
Postojna Cave
The cave’s chambers are characterised by jagged stalagmites, stalactites and unique formations called ‘draperies’ that resemble pleated curtains. Illuminated by soft lights, the twisted rocks take on a mysterious, alluring character. Slovenia’s second-largest underground cave system, Postojna is located in the country’s west, roughly 50km from Ljubljana on the banks of the Pivka river. The caves were first documented in the 17th century but their history dates back much further than that, with evidence that they were used by humans for shelter from as early as the 13th century.