Slovenia is a small country but packed with stunning sights, from alpine forests to emerald green lakes. From the quaint capital city to the coastal resort town, there are plenty of places to visit in this beautiful European destination.
While Ljubljana has a rich history, it also offers a youthful vibe that is distinctly European. Explore the cobblestone streets, people watch from a waterfront cafe or visit the lively Metelkova Mesto area for trendy galleries and street art.
1. Ljubljana
If you’re looking for a city with a mix of historic and modern architecture, Ljubljana is the place to go. It’s also a great place to shop.
The cosmopolitan capital’s main shopping streets include Miklosic Street, Copova Street and Preseren Square. There you’ll find various shops selling contemporary clothes and other products from mid-price range brands to high-end ones.
You can also take a stroll along the riverside to enjoy some great views of the city centre and check out some interesting bridges, decorated with dragons or love locks!
The city’s main pedestrian streets are home to many small boutiques and stores where you can find authentic Slovenian products. There’s also the Galerija MAK, a gallery featuring works by artists from Slovenia and the region, as well as seasonal special selections.
2. Lake Bled
Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist attractions in Slovenia. The tranquil glacial lake is surrounded by mountains and captivates travellers across the seasons.
There are many things to do and see in Lake Bled including visiting the tiny church on Bled Island, a castle and hiking. In addition to these popular activities, you can also explore Vintgar Gorge and Savica Waterfall.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, you can sign up for a farm stay. This is an amazing way to learn about the local culture while enjoying delicious food and fresh air.
Another must-see attraction is Bled Castle, an 11th century medieval fortress that sits atop a cliff overlooking the lake and surrounding mountains. The castle also has a museum that displays its history and artifacts.
3. Maribor
Maribor is Slovenia’s second largest city and is filled with attractions and things to do. The cobbled streets of the Old Town are a treat and there is a great energy and laid-back pace of life here.
The best way to explore the city is on foot and it’s a good idea to take a guided tour or ask at your accommodation for some recommendations. Make sure to stop in the main city square - Glavni Trg – and snap some photos of the lovely Renaissance architecture.
When you’re not in the city center, there are plenty of things to do near Maribor including hiking, skiing and mountain biking. You can also book a cruise on the Drava River and see the beautiful sights of the city from the water.
Another attraction is the Vinag Wine Cellar which you can visit under Liberty Square. It’s a fascinating place and you can get to know more about the local wines and the wine culture in Maribor.
4. Piran
Piran is a small medieval town in southwestern Slovenia that has plenty to offer the traveler. It’s the perfect destination to experience a bit of history, enjoy some good food and drink, and soak up some sun along the Adriatic coast.
- The Old Town of Piran is a treasure trove of cafe tables, narrow streets and historic buildings. Tartini Square, named after the town’s famous violinist and composer Giuseppe Tartini, is one of the main attractions here.
- Another must see in this quaint little town is the Piran Maritime Museum. It’s just a short walk from Tartini Square, and it has plenty of artefacts that showcase the town’s rich maritime heritage.
- You can also climb to the top of the Bell Tower in Piran for some stunning views over the city. This is a bit of a trek, but it’s well worth the effort.
