Small But Mighty: Five Must-Visits in Slovenia

Why you should consider visiting one of Europe’s smallest countries.

When it comes to European vacations and backpacking trips, which countries come to mind? Perhaps you think of England, France and Germany? Italy, Greece and Spain? While these countries are wonderful destinations and will provide you with plenty to experience, why not check out a country a little further off the beaten path?

This is the part where I tell you all about the lovely country of Slovenia. Slovenia sits just east of northern Italy, south of Austria, north of Croatia and west of Hungary for those of you who struggle with geography. 

The country is small; its population is just over 2 million people. It takes about three and half hours to drive from the coast to the uppermost corner — a drive filled with snow-capped mountain peaks, greener-than-green hills and all the charm of a European countryside.

In terms of actual destinations, look no further than below:

Ljubljana

Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital and largest city with just under 300,000 residents. The city has a plethora of areas to explore, but is also small enough that you can squeeze it all in one day if you’re pressed for time! 

Besides getting coffee and dessert with a view of the river, Ljubljana has a castle atop a hill right in the center of town. There are several ways up and down this hill, including a funicular and driving — but of course, I recommend walking for the best experience (even walking there are multiple ways up). At the top of the hill you have a wonderful view of the city and you get to explore the castle!

Postojna Cave

Walking through Postojna Cave is a unique and spectacular experience. It costs around $30 to do a walking tour, which lasts around an hour and a half. The walking tours are given in multiple languages (Slovenian, English, German and Italian) and there are audio guides in various other languages available as well.

Predjama Castle

Only a short distance away from Postojna Cave is Predjama Castle — a castle built into a cave. Predjama Castle is the world’s largest cave castle and will leave you in awe of medieval engineering. 

While touring the castle, you can listen to an audio guide that gives you information about the castle’s history.

Lake Bled

Lake Bled is one of many of Slovenia’s natural wonders. Lake Bled is six kilometers around — about 3.7 miles — and will leave you breathless (especially if you go in spring or summer). 

Along with Lake Bled’s beauty, there is also a castle you can visit that provides awe-inspiring views of the lake for a small fee (and some stair climbing). While you’re there, be sure to head to a local restaurant or cafe and order a slice of kremšnita — a light yet rich cream-based dessert that Lake Bled is known for.

Triglav National Park

This national park has multiple sights to see, but one I’d like to highlight is Peričnik Waterfall. Not only is this waterfall beautiful, the short hike to see it is lovely as well. You get to walk alongside Triglavska Bistrica — a river that is one of the most exquisite blues you will ever see. Peričnik Waterfall is also just as beautiful in the winter when it freezes over as it is in the warmer months when it’s flowing freely!

If you plan a trip to Europe some time soon, consider adding Slovenia — and one of these five destinations — to your list. I promise you won’t regret it.