Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia and a beautiful city to start your trip. Start your exploration with a visit to Ljubljana Castle, which stands majestically atop a hill. Afterward, stroll through Tivoli Park, the largest park in the city, and enjoy the beautiful botanical gardens.
Lake Bled is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by the Julian Alps. You can take a boat ride to Bled Island to visit the church, walk around the lake, or hike up to Bled Castle for some incredible views.
Postojna Cave is a network of underground passages, halls, and chambers that will take your breath away. You can take a train ride through them and enjoy the magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.
Predjama Castle is a unique castle built into the side of a mountain. It has an interesting story and history that you can learn about as you explore this remarkable site.
Škocjan Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site and offer breathtaking insight into the underground natural beauty of Slovenia. You can walk through the passages and marvel at the incredible rock formations.
Piran is a charming coastal town on the Adriatic Sea that offers something for everyone. You can swim in the sea, explore the old town with its winding streets and Venetian-style architecture, or simply relax and enjoy the views.
Škofja Loka is a charming little town with a proud history that dates back to the 12th century. You can walk through the colorful streets, visit the castle, and learn about the town's fascinating past.
Vintgar Gorge is a stunning natural sight that can be explored on a leisurely 1.5-mile walk. You can enjoy the crystal clear water of the Radovna River while walking along the wooden walkways suspended above it.
Maribor is the second-largest city in Slovenia and is located near the Austrian border. You can visit the city's old town square and cathedral, learn about wine production at Vinag Wine Cellar, and relax in the city's many parks and squares.
In Slovenia, it is recommended to rent a car or hire a private driver to make the most of your time. The roads are easy to navigate and the scenery is breathtaking. A rental car costs about $60-80 per day, and a private driver is around $300-500 per day. Public transportation is also an option but may limit your flexibility and ability to explore certain areas. It is best to budget around $500-600 for transportation costs during your trip.
If you have more time, consider adding a trip to the seaside town of Koper or exploring the Julian Alps. If you have less time, shorten your stay in Maribor or skip Vintgar Gorge. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for all the exploring you will do, and don't forget to try the local cuisine and wines.
The main international airport in Slovenia is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (airport code LJU), located about 20 miles northwest of Ljubljana. There are also smaller airports in Maribor and Portorož, but they mostly serve regional flights. Taxis or rental cars are available to get from the airport to your accommodation.