Formerly part of Yugoslavia until 1991, Slovenia is now a thriving nation, known for its beautiful nature, friendly people, and widely renowned as an extremely green country. As one of Europe’s less-discovered gems, we’ve got the lowdown on this country rich in mountain and forest land, so you can get planning your next sustainable break.
How to get to Slovenia
Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana has an international airport, with direct flights from London. Slovenia also borders the Northern Italian city of Trieste which is only a little over 50 miles from Slovenia’s capital, with regular connecting flights from within Europe.
For those looking for a more eco-friendly option, Slovenia is also on Europe’s well-connected train routes, meaning you can hop aboard an interrail route from Munich, Vienna, or Zurich—or even as far as London or Paris!
Best time to visit Slovenia—Travel Tips
European peak summer holiday season is July and August, so you can expect everywhere to be busy in these months. Slovenia comes to life with locals frequenting outdoor cafes and bars and flocking to the rivers and lakes on their summer holidays. In terms of tourism, Slovenia is still relatively quiet in peak season compared to neighboring summer hotspots Croatia and Italy.
If you want to catch the last of the heat and warm waters but avoid a bit of crowding, September is an ideal time to visit the country.
For those looking for a break earlier in the season, Slovenia starts to warm up in Spring, making April or May an ideal time to visit if you’d like to hit the great outdoors and go hiking before the summer sun gets too intense.
Fall is a great time to visit if you’re all about the views—the fall colors will be in full swing by October, offering an autumnal wash at picturesque spots like Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.
Finally, If you’re a keen skier, the winter months of December, January, and February will offer great snow conditions across the Julian Alps. In December you’ll also be able to enjoy the charming European Christmas markets on the banks of the Ljubljanica river in the capital.
Slovenia and Sustainable Travel
In 2016, Slovenia was declared the ‘Green Destination of the World’ by the international company Green Destinations. Nine municipalities in the country follow a zero waste initiative, visitors and strongly encouraged to use the country’s excellent public transport system, and park-and-ride and bicycle hire schemes are abundant at key tourist sites.
At Lake Bled, Slovenia boasts Europe’s first zero waste hotel–the Ribno Alpine Resort. With a hostel, hotel, and glamping options, there’s something for every budget, allowing you to travel and stay consciously while at the beautiful Lake Bled.
Ljubljana
Slovenia’s capital is also the green capital of Europe. The city is a fairytale web of medieval streets on the banks of the Ljubljanica River. The city is known for its strict traffic restrictions, making it a haven for pedestrians and cyclists. The 16th-century castle sits on the hill in the east of the old town, overlooking the city. The city is awash with picturesque bridges along the river, historic churches and cafes, bars and restaurants serving local delicacies. The city is relatively small for a European capital, meaning it's great to explore on foot—the whole city can be explored in a matter of hours.
Slovenia attractions
Lake bled
One of the country’s most desirable holiday locations is Lake Bled, located only 90 minutes by train from the capital. Walk the perimeter of the 3.7-mile lake, hire a rowing boat to visit the charming tiny island in the center, or visit the clifftop Bled Castle. Of course, it’s a great spot for a summer dip too!
Vintgar gorge
Located within Triglav National Park, the gorge offers emerald-colored waters and is easily one of the best things to see in Slovenia. Hike along the purpose-built walkways through the gorge with canyons and waterfalls dotted along the route. Entry to the gorge is €10 for adults and €5 for children.
Postojna cave
In the country’s southwest region, you’ll find the Postojna cave, a 15-mile-long cave system, and one of the best-known caves in the world. Ride the electric train through the cave network, rich with Stalactites and stalagmites—some of which are up to two million years old!
Food in Slovenia
Slovenia has a rich offering of traditional delicacies. The country’s food takes inspiration from its neighbors, with Mediterranean and Eastern European influence. There are many dishes, but here are the ones you must try when visiting Slovenia.
Dumplings
Arguably the country’s national dish, you’ll find dumplings made of buckwheat and filled with cheese, pork, veal, or potato on any restaurant menu in Slovenia.
Bograč
A hearty winter delight—Bograč is a type of meat stew that typically combines pork, beef, and game with potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Kremna rezina
A traditional Slovenian cake, originating from the Bled region. The cake consists of layers of cream, puff pastry, and custard, and is found at cafes across the country. The best, of course, is found by the lakeside at Bled itself, with the Hotel Park serving a famous offering.
Outdoor activities Slovenia
Slovenia is abundant with outdoor activities. For keen hikers, the country has many trails and routes. The Slovenia Mountain Trail is over 370 miles long and takes approximately a month to complete—but if you’ve not got that much time on your hands you can walk a section of it!
Canyoning and caving are also popular activities, as well as exploring the beautiful gorges, such as the Vintgar Gorge at the edge of Triglav National Park.
Skiing is a popular winter activity in the country, whilst hiring an e-bike or joining a tour to navigate the stunning but undulating terrain is a great way to explore on two wheels.
Finally, for those visiting Lake Bled, the Straža Bled is a thrilling downhill toboggan ride built into the hillside overlooking the lake—a must for thrillseekers.
Long story short…
Slovenia is certainly a country leading the way in sustainable travel and is a relatively undiscovered natural paradise for outdoor lovers. With great connections to the rest of Europe and so many attractions, Slovenia is the perfect spot to visit on your next European trip!
Written by Alex Callahan
