Day 1 – Bled

Day 2 – Kranjska Gora

Day 3 – Soča

Day 4 – Piran

Day 5 – Bohinj

Day 6 – Ljubljana

Hiking

Biking

Rainy day

Day 1 – Bled

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Day 2 – Kranjska Gora

Day 3 – Soča

Day 4 – Piran

Day 5 – Bohinj

Day 6 – Ljubljana

Hiking

Other

Rainy day

Inspirations & Planing

Activities

We’ve prepared a selection of inspiring experiences to make your holiday even more relaxing. Our travel plan is centered around a specific geographical area, offering you breathtaking sights each day. Every day brings a new adventure with beautiful landmarks and unforgettable experiences, all carefully curated for your enjoyment.

DAY 1

Bled and Vintgar

Getting to Bled (6 km from our home)
You have several good options to reach Bled from our place:

🚗 Driving
Bled is a popular destination, especially in June, July, August, and during holidays. There’s only one main road from Lesce to Bled, so traffic can be heavy.
Tip: Leave before 9:00 AM — the drive takes about 15 minutes. After 9:00, it could take up to an hour.
Parking: Prices range from free to €1, €2, or €3 per hour, depending on the location. The closer you are to the lake, the more expensive it gets.
Check parking info and prices here: Bled Parking Info

🚌 Public Transport
There’s a bus stop (Radovljica zahod) right next to our home. Buses to Bled run approximately every 30 minutes.
Tickets: Pay in cash only to the driver.
Schedules and prices: Arriva Bus Timetable

🚴 Biking
Biking to Bled takes about 30 minutes and is a great way to enjoy the surroundings.
Routes: You can take the direct path on a bike path along the main road or a scenic route along the Sava River: Google Maps Route
Bike Rentals: You can rent bikes from us, from local shops in Radovljica, or use the Gorenjska Bike public system. It’s also easy to extend your trip to Vintgar Gorge from Bled.

What to See in Bled 

There’s so much to explore in Bled — from lakeside strolls and castles to panoramic viewpoints and sweet treats. Here are our top picks:

🌊 Walk Around Lake Bled
Take a relaxed walk around Lake Bled (approx. 6 km loop). It takes about 1.5 hours and offers stunning views all along the way.

📸 Hike to Ojstrica Viewpoint
Want the best photo of Bled? Hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint — especially beautiful at sunrise.
Hiking guide here

🏰 Visit Bled Castle
Perched on a cliff above the lake, Bled Castle offers breathtaking views and a step back in time. There is a Museum, wine cellar (vinoteka), old printing shop (tiskarna), and bee product shop.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
Admission: €13 (adults), €4 (children 6–14), free for kids under 6.
Use the virtual audio guide for a self-guided tour
In summer, don’t miss medieval reenactments with knights — check the event calendar.

⛪ Visit Bled Island
Hop on a traditional pletna boat (every 30 min, €18/person) or rent a rowboat to reach this charming island.
Main attraction: Church of the Mother of God
Ring the wishing bell inside the church
Explore the bell tower, hermitage, and more
Tradition: Grooms carrying brides up the 99 steps = happy marriage
You can also take the Bled boat line shuttle.

Straža Hill – Toboggan Ride & Adventure Park
Great for families! Enjoy the summer toboggan ride with lake views or visit the adventure park.
Toboggan price: ~€5–7 per ride

Karlov Honey – Beekeeper Ambrožič
Visit this small local honey farm to learn about beekeeping and taste homemade honey.
Contact here to check if they are open, and you can buy products on-site.

🍰 Taste the Original Bled Cream Cake
You must try the legendary Bled Cream Cake (Blejska kremšnita) — a local dessert since the 1950s.
Try the original at Park Hotel Bled, where it all began!

What to See around Bled

Vintgar Gorge, carved by the Radovna River, is one of Slovenia’s most breathtaking natural sites, surrounded by legends of mystical guardians. The 1.6 km walk through the gorge takes about 45 minutes and ends at the impressive Šum Waterfall. From there, visitors can return via two routes: a shorter forest path (about 1.3 km) or a longer scenic trail (4.3 km) that passes the Church of St. Catherine with stunning views.

To protect this natural treasure, advance reservations are required and tickets must be purchased online at tickets.vintgar.si. On-site ticket sales are no longer available.

Access by car is limited, so visitors are encouraged to use the Vintgar Shuttle e-bus, a convenient and eco-friendly transfer from nearby parking areas and the Bled bus station. Shuttles run regularly throughout the day and stop at the Vintgar Visitor Centre. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your entry time to ensure a smooth visit. More information is available at vintgar.si.

Pokljuška soteska (gorge) is a peaceful hidden gem near Bled—a dry, rocky ravine once filled with water and streams, much like Vintgar . Today, the water has vanished, leaving behind dramatic rock formations, and a serene forest setting perfect for a quiet walk. Long ago, before the age of cars, this gorge served as the shortest route for locals heading to the Pokljuka Plateau. In 1930, wooden galleries known as the “Galleries of Prince Andrew” (Galerije kraljevica Andreja) were constructed by the local Tourist Society of Gorje to facilitate passage through the narrowest parts of the gorge.

Open year-round and best enjoyed from spring to autumn, the gorge offers a free, self-guided 1 to 2-hour walk through lush landscapes. No reservation is needed, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers seeking tranquility and history.

Koža na Taležu hike is a peaceful forest and meadow trail offering beautiful views of the surroundings and the Julian Alps. It takes about 1 to 1.5 hours each way at a relaxed pace, with a gradual ascent suitable for most fitness levels. At the top, you’ll find a cozy mountain hut (Dom na Taležu), where you can enjoy traditional Slovenian food and drinks. On clear days, the panoramic view stretches from Bled all the way to Triglav. See the path.

DAY 2

Kranjska Gora valley

🏘️ Kranjska Gora Old Town
The heart of Kranjska Gora is its lovely old town, where you can stroll through traditional alpine architecture, explore quaint shops, and enjoy the restaurants. The town is rich in history, with its roots going back to the early 20th century.The town square often hosts events and festivals, check town’s website for events.

🎿 Kranjska Gora Ski Resort
In winter, Kranjska Gora is a top ski destination, offering excellent slopes for all levels of skiers. The resort is also famous for its World Cup ski races. During the summer months, the resort transforms into a hub for outdoor adventures, offering activities such as mountain biking, tobogganing, and hiking. You can take chairlift to the top of Vitranc mountain.

🌊 Lake Jasna
Located just outside the town, Lake Jasna is a beautiful artificial alpine lake with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by towering mountains. It’s a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. There’s a lovely walking path around the lake, and you can rent pedal boats in the warmer months. The surrounding area also offers several hiking trails that lead into the nearby mountains. You can head to the Koča v krnici hut at the end of the valley, link here.

🌿 Zelenci Nature Reserve
Zelenci is a tranquil, emerald-green spring in a protected nature reserve, just a short drive from Kranjska Gora. The area is known for its crystal-clear waters, rich plant life, and unique wildlife. The spring feeds into the Sava Dolinka River. A wooden walkway (5 min walk) and viewing platform offer excellent views of this peaceful and pristine area.

🏔️ Planica ski jump center
In Planica international ski events are held. The current (2025) wold record was made here 254m by Domen Prevc. You can do the same with a zip line insted of skis. Check the round house where the shops are. Go with elevator to the bottom and search for parking lot. In summer months the parking garage is transfered into a freezer. It is filled with snow, where pro ski runners train.

🏞️ Tamar Valley
Tamar Valley starts with Planica center and is a peaceful and beautiful hiking destination located just outside Kranjska Gora. It offers scenic views of towering peaks and lush meadows, with several routes suitable for all levels. The valley is home to the Tamar mountain hut, where hikers can rest and enjoy traditional Slovenian dishes. In winter months it is nice destination to go sledging with families.

🌊 Martuljški Waterfalls
The Martuljški Waterfalls, located in the Martuljek Valley, are a stunning natural attraction. To reach the trail, park at the Martuljek parking lot (just off the main road). It takes around 45 minutes from the parking lot to reach the first waterfall, the path leads you through nice gorge. From the first to the second waterfall, the trail continues with a moderate ascent, taking about 45 minutes and covering an elevation gain of 200 meters. On the way back, above the first waterfall, you’ll find the Ingotova Koča na Planini Jesenje hut, open on weekends, where you can enjoy local food and relax. For more details, visit the hike description.

💦 Peričnik Waterfall
The Peričnik Waterfall, located in the Vrata Valley, is a spectacular double waterfall where you can even walk behind the water. The waterfall is especially impressive in winter, when the water transformes to ice. You can park at the Vrata Valley parking lot near Aljaž Hut for €3 per day. If it’s full, a shuttle service from Mojstrana drops visitors near the trailhead. The 30-minute hike to the waterfall is easy, with a 150-meter elevation gain. The waterfall sits at about 1,100 meters above sea level.

🏞️ Dolina Vrata
Dolina Vrata offers stunning views of north wall of mount Triglav and is a popular base for hikers, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.Parking at the Aljaž Hut parking area costs €2 per hour (March 16–June 14 & Sept 16–Nov 15) with a daily max of €15, or €4 per hour (June 15–Sept 15) with a max of €25. Alternatively, a free shuttle bus runs from Mojstrana to the valley. The hike to Triglav’s Kredarica hut is 10 km one-way with an elevation gain of 1,200 meters, offering incredible alpine views along the way. Peričnik waterfall is in the middle of Vrata Valley.

DAY 3

Soča valley

Radovljica to Soča Valley via Vršič Pass

The Soča Valley lies on the southern side of Triglav National Park and can only be reached by tunnel or mountain passes. You want to spend the whole day there. That is why this plan is prepared as a circular path taking you through Triglav National Park.

It’s important to start the day early—ideally before 8:00 AM. Begin your journey by heading toward Kranjska Gora and make a quick stop at Jasna Lake to stretch your legs and take a few photos. From there, continue your drive toward the Vršič Pass. This scenic mountain road features 50 hairpin bends—24 on the Kranjska Gora side and 26 on the Soča side—and reaches an elevation of 1,611 meters, making it the highest mountain pass in Slovenia. Built by Russian prisoners of war during the First World War, the road has a tragic history—many lives were lost in a snow avalanche during its construction. Along the way, you can visit the Russian Chapel, a touching memorial to those who perished. If you look closely at the southern rock face, you might spot the naturally formed “Face of the Ajda Girl,” a haunting image shaped by nature itself. When you reach the top of the pass, take a short 15-minute hike to the nearby Vršič summit. There are two mountain huts along the way where you can grab a quick snack.

The Vršič Pass is also a natural watershed divide. Rainfall on the northern side eventually flows to the Black Sea, while water on the southern side feeds into the Soča River, making its way to the Adriatic Sea.

As you descend toward the Soča River, consider making a brief detour at the final curve to visit the river’s spring. A little further down, you can stop at the Korita Mlinarice and then visit the nearby Alpine Botanical Garden Juliana. Continue driving through the Soča Valley to the Great and Small Soča Gorges (very nice). For those brave enough to face the icy water, this is an excellent spot for a refreshing swim.

Your next stop is Bovec, where you should arrive around 2:00 PM—perfect timing for lunch. During the busy summer months, restaurant reservations are highly recommended. This is the town where sports agencies for kayaking, canyoning, ziplining, and rafting are based. If you’re interested in history, you can take a short five-minute drive to Fort Kluže and explore its tunnels, remnants from the First World War.

From there, the road leads you south to Boka Waterfall—the largest in Slovenia. While it’s difficult to get close, it’s still impressive when viewed from a distance.

Continue south toward Kobarid and be sure to visit the stunning Kozjak Waterfall. There’s a parking fee of €1.50 per hour, and the walk to the falls takes about 30 minutes. An entrance fee of €5 for adults and €3 for children is required to access the trail leading to the waterfall.

The Church of Saint Anton above Kobarid is a charming 17th-century chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, offering a peaceful retreat with panoramic views of the Soča Valley. Beneath the church lies an ossuary containing the bones of soldiers from the First World War, making it a poignant historical site as well as a spiritual one.

Later in the afternoon, make your way down to Tolmin and visit the Tolmin Gorge. Here you can observe the fascinating mix of stream colors at the confluence. Just a bit further from the gorge stands the Church of Saint Javorca, a UNESCO heritage site built by soldiers during the war. Nearby, two historic bunkers can be explored with a local guide.

As you head back home, you have two options: drive over the Sorica Pass to Bohinj, or load your car onto a train and travel through the tunnel while remaining in your vehicle—a unique and memorable experience. Be sure to arrive at Most na Soči 25–30 minutes before the train’s departure. Train times and prices for the “avtovlak” can be found here. Once in Bohinj, you can have dinner in Bohinjska Bistrica or head straight home to Radovljica.

DAY 4

The Sea Side – Piran

Starting your trip from Radovljica, the journey to Piran takes just over two hours by car. Once in Piran, the town offers several attractions within walking distance. The main square, Tartini Square, is the heart of the town and surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and the marina. Just above it, St. George’s Church offers access to its bell tower for €2, providing a wide panoramic view of the coast. The church and tower are open from 9:00 to 18:00, depending on the season. The old city walls, accessible for a €2 entrance fee, are another highlight and open daily from 8:00 to 20:00 during the warmer months.

From Piran, a short drive or bike ride brings you to Moon Bay, locally known as Mesečev zaliv. This bay is located in the Strunjan Nature Park and is accessed by a steep walking path through pine woods. The beach is undeveloped and natural, with no facilities, but it’s ideal for a peaceful swim or rest. Entry is free and the area is open all day, though parking can be limited.

Close to the Croatian border lies the Sečovlje Salina Nature Park, known for its historic salt pans and birdlife. There are two entrance areas. The northern Lera side includes a salt museum, while the southern Fontanigge side focuses on open nature walks. Entry costs €7 for adults and €5 for children. The park is open from 9:00 to 17:00 between April and October, with reduced hours in the winter. For up-to-date info, it’s worth checking their website at www.kpss.si.

Heading inland, Marezige is a popular stop thanks to its Wine Fountain, located on a terrace with wide views over the Istrian hills and coast. You’ll need to pick up a wine card with a €3 deposit, which you can load with money to sample different local wines. Tastings typically range from €1.50 to €3.00 per deciliter. The fountain is open daily from 12:00 to 20:00 in the main season and on weekends during the off-season. Entry is free, and you only pay for the wine you sample.

Socerb Castle is a small site perched above the Gulf of Trieste. The castle grounds are freely accessible and open all day. It’s not large, but the viewpoint is spectacular. Nearby, the Holy Cave (Sveta Jama) is open for guided tours. Entrance costs €5 and tours operate on specific days, which are listed on svetajama.eu.

A short drive south brings you to Črni Kal, known for its stone viaduct and surrounding limestone cliffs. The area is popular with climbers, but also makes for a scenic walking and photo spot. Access is free, and you can explore as long as you like.

The Parenzana cycling trail follows the route of a former narrow-gauge railway. One of the most popular stretches for a short ride or walk is between Izola and Strunjan, continuing toward Portorož. The trail is paved and mostly flat, with tunnels and sea views. It’s free to use and accessible at multiple points. Bicycles can be rented in Izola or Portorož, with prices starting at around €10 for two hours.

Izola itself is a small coastal town with a pleasant old center and a lively marina. You can explore the narrow streets, visit the Church of St. Maurus, and enjoy seafood or local wine at one of the restaurants near the waterfront. Parking is available in paid lots close to the marina or in the Argo garage near the edge of town.

To round out your visit, Koper offers a short and pleasant stop. The old town is centered around Tito Square, which features the Praetorian Palace, the cathedral, and the city’s bell tower. You can climb the tower for €3 to get a view of the entire town and bay. The tower is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00. The city promenade and beach area are also nearby, offering a chance to relax before heading home.

Parking in all coastal towns is regulated and generally paid by meter or mobile app. EasyPark and ParkMe are both commonly used and support multiple zones across the coastal region. Food options are plentiful in Piran, Izola, and Koper, while Marezige is a good inland choice for a lighter, wine-focused lunch.

DAY 5

Bohinj

Bohinj is not a town, but a wider alpine valley region in northwestern Slovenia, within Triglav National Park. The area includes two glacial valleys formed by the Triglav glacier: the Upper Bohinj Valley and Lower Bohinj Valley. At the heart of it lies Lake Bohinj, the largest permanent lake in Slovenia, surrounded by mountains and high plateaus.

Lake Bohinj

Lake Bohinj is the central feature of the region. It is surrounded by mountains and forests, with a shoreline that remains mostly natural and undeveloped. The eastern shore of the lake, near Ribčev Laz, is best suited for easy walking and panoramic views. A well-maintained walking path follows the shore and is suitable for families. The western shore, near Ukanc, is quieter and excellent for swimming during warm weather, especially in summer when the lake temperature can reach around 22–24°C.

You can also rent kayaks, SUPs, or canoes on the lake (starting at €10/hour) or take the electric boat taxi, which connects Ribčev Laz and Ukanc several times a day during the tourist season. Tickets for the boat ride are about €9 one-way or €12 return for adults.

Savica Waterfall (Slap Savica)

Savica Waterfall is one of the most visited natural landmarks in the Bohinj region. The waterfall is about 78 meters high and is the source of the Sava Bohinjka River. To reach it, you must walk up a stone path with 553 stairs from the parking area. The path is well maintained and shaded.

There is an entrance fee of €4 for adults and €2 for children. Tickets are bought at a kiosk at the start of the trail. The official parking is located below the trailhead and costs €4 for 3 hours (payment at the machine). If parking along the road outside the official parking area, be aware that fines are possible during the summer season due to active patrols.

Mostnica Gorge (Korita Mostnice)

Mostnica Gorge is located above Stara Fužina and is a narrow, scenic canyon carved by the Mostnica stream. The walk through the gorge is about 2 kilometers one-way, following wooden bridges and forest paths. The entrance is located at the end of the road in Stara Fužina, near the Voje valley.

There is an entrance fee of €4 for adults and €2 for children during the main season. Parking is available nearby for €3 to €4 per day, depending on location. The full loop, continuing into the Voje Valley, is about 12 km total and includes a mountain hut at the end where food and drinks are available.

Vogar Plateau (Viewpoint over Lake Bohinj)

The hike to the Vogar Plateau starts from Stara Fužina and follows a marked forest path uphill. It takes about 1 hour of moderate hiking to reach the paragliding launch site, which also serves as a popular viewpoint with a panoramic view over Lake Bohinj. There is a mountain hut near the top that serves local food and drinks.

Vogel Cable Car and Summer Activities

From Ukanc, the Vogel Cable Car takes you to 1,535 meters elevation in about 5 minutes. In summer, the Vogel plateau becomes a hiking and activity area with several marked mountain trails suitable for families and experienced hikers alike. There are short walks, such as to Orlove glave, and longer routes toward Komna or Triglav Lakes Valley.

You can also rent mountain bikes, try the adventure park, or simply enjoy a drink at the restaurant at the upper station. A return ticket for the cable car costs €28 for adults and €15 for children (prices vary slightly by season). Parking at the base station is free.

Cycling in the Bohinj Valley

There is a dedicated cycling path running through both valleys, mostly flat and separated from the main roads. It passes through villages like Stara Fužina, Bohinjska Bistrica, and Srednja vas. Ideal for families and recreational cyclists, bike rental is available in Ribčev Laz and Bohinjska Bistrica.

Studor and Alpine Architecture

The village of Studor is known for its traditional “kozolec” hayracks and preserved alpine architecture. You can visit the Oplen House, a small ethnographic museum showing how people lived in the region in the past. The village is a quiet stop, also connected to the cycling path.

Zajamniki on Pokljuka Plateau

Zajamniki is a high mountain pasture located on the Pokljuka Plateau, famous for its wooden shepherd huts lined along a ridge with spectacular views of the Julian Alps. It can be reached by car (last part on a gravel road) or by mountain bike or hiking. There are no tourist services here, just nature and the traditional alpine setting.

Also on Pokljuka is the Biatlon Center Pokljuka, which offers cross-country skiing in winter and roller-skiing, hiking, and training facilities in summer. The area is a good starting point for several longer hikes into Triglav National Park, including the route to Viševnik.

DAY 6

Ljubljana

Ljubljana

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a compact and vibrant city that combines old-world charm with a modern, youthful energy. The city center is pedestrian-friendly and centered around the Ljubljanica River, which winds past historic buildings, lively cafés, and green spaces.

The Ljubljana Castle stands on a hill above the city. You can reach it on foot via a steep path or take the funicular from the old town. Entry to the courtyard is free, but the castle museum and tower require a ticket (€12 adults / €8 children). The castle is open daily, typically from 10:00 to 20:00 in summer, with shorter hours in winter.

In the old town, Prešeren Square and the Triple Bridge mark the heart of the city. The Central Market, designed by architect Jože Plečnik, is a good stop for local produce and quick street food. Across the river, the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, the Town Hall, and the Robba Fountain form the historic civic center.

Ljubljana is known for its green character. You can rent a bike or electric scooter to explore the city or walk through Tivoli Park, which stretches west from the center. Museums such as the National Gallery, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Slovenian Ethnographic Museum offer cultural insight.

Parking is regulated in the city center. It’s best to park in one of the public garages, like Kongresni trg or Šentpeter, or use the P+R (park and ride) systems on the city’s edge.

Arboretum Volčji Potok

Located about 25 kilometers from Ljubljana, near Kamnik, Arboretum Volčji Potok is the country’s largest and most visited botanical garden. It features a wide variety of trees, flowers, ornamental gardens, and walking trails spread over a gently rolling landscape.

The park is open daily year-round, with longer hours in spring and summer (usually 8:00–20:00). The entrance fee is €10 for adults and €6 for children. In spring, especially in April and May, the arboretum hosts large flower exhibitions with blooming tulips and seasonal displays. There’s also a greenhouse with tropical plants and a section for families with dinosaur and animal models for kids.

Parking is free and available directly in front of the entrance. The paths are mostly paved or gravel, and the entire park is suitable for casual walking or relaxed half-day visits.

Velika Planina

Velika Planina is a high alpine pasture plateau above Kamnik, known for its traditional shepherd huts and wide mountain views. In summer, the plateau is alive with grazing cattle and seasonal herdsmen’s life. Visitors can explore the area on foot, enjoy local food in mountain huts, or simply take in the open scenery.

Access is possible via a cable car and chairlift from Kamniška Bistrica. The cable car operates year-round, with extended hours in summer. A return ticket for the cable car and lift costs about €20 for adults and €10 for children. Alternatively, hiking routes from the valley take about 2 to 3 hours uphill.

Once on the plateau, marked trails connect key points, including Gradišče, the chapel of Our Lady of the Snows, and traditional shepherd dwellings. There are planšar huts where you can try local dishes like sour milk and buckwheat žganci. The area is open and accessible without entrance fees, but weather can change quickly at this altitude.

Jezersko

Jezersko is a quiet alpine valley near the Austrian border, shaped by glacial activity and surrounded by steep mountain walls. Its name comes from a former lake that once filled the valley. Today, the area is known for its calm atmosphere, alpine pastures, and scenic walks.

The central point of interest is Planšarsko jezero, a small artificial lake reflecting the nearby peaks, with a restaurant and walking path. Short walks in the area include paths through ravensko valley and toward Česka koča, a mountain hut located at 1,542 meters (roughly a 2.5-hour hike from the valley floor). In summer, the area is excellent for road cycling and hiking, while winter brings cross-country skiing and ski touring.

There are no entrance fees to visit the valley. Parking near the lake is free and simple to find. Jezersko is not overdeveloped, so it suits those looking for peace and less tourist traffic.

Logarska Dolina

Logarska Dolina is one of the most beautiful alpine valleys in Slovenia, part of the Solčavsko region and protected as a regional park. The glacial valley is surrounded by high limestone peaks of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps and is known for its pristine nature and easy access to hiking routes.

The valley is accessible by a toll road. The fee for private cars is €7, collected at the entrance booth. Once inside, a scenic road leads to the end of the valley, with several parking areas and trailheads. A popular, easy walk leads to Rinka Waterfall, one of the highest in Slovenia, which falls 90 meters from a rocky wall. From the waterfall, it is possible to hike further into the Okrešelj glacial basin.

Several alpine farms and guesthouses serve local food and drinks. Cycling is allowed on the main road, and e-bikes are available for rent in Solčava or from accommodations in the area. The valley is open year-round but most services operate from May to October.

For a panoramic drive, the nearby Solčava Panoramic Road climbs above the valley and offers views of the Alps, alpine meadows, and scattered mountain farms. It’s a good option on the way in or out of the valley.

CLOUDY DAY

Rainy day

When the weather turns rainy, Slovenia offers several unique and weatherproof destinations. The region between Ljubljana, the Karst plateau, and Idrija includes some of the country’s most fascinating underground caves, historical mines, and museums, making it a great area to explore on a cloudy or wet day.

Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave is Slovenia’s most visited tourist attraction and one of the largest karst cave systems in the world open to the public. The cave is famous for its underground train, large chambers, and formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and the rare olm (proteus), also known as the “human fish.”

Guided tours are offered in multiple languages and take about 90 minutes, including a train ride and a walking section. The cave is open year-round, with tours starting every hour or two depending on the season. In summer, the first tour is usually at 9:00 and the last at 18:00.

Entrance fee is €29.90 for adults, €23.90 for students, and €17.90 for children (2024 prices). Combined tickets are available for multiple attractions, including Predjama Castle. Parking near the cave costs €5 per day. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 10°C, so a jacket is recommended regardless of outside weather.

Predjama Castle

Just 9 kilometers from Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle is a dramatic Renaissance fortress built into the mouth of a cliff-side cave. The castle has a long history, most famously associated with the knight Erazem of Predjama, who supposedly resisted a siege by using secret cave passages.

The interior is partially restored, and visitors can explore living quarters, defense towers, a dungeon, and natural cave sections. An audio guide is included with the ticket and explains the castle’s history and legends. The self-guided tour takes about 1 hour.

The castle is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 in the high season and shorter hours in winter. Admission is €17.90 for adults, €14.30 for students, and €10.70 for children. Tickets can be combined with Postojna Cave for a reduced total price. Parking is free near the castle.

Idrija Mercury Mine (Antonijev rov)

The old mercury mine in Idrija is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a deep dive into the town’s industrial past. The main attraction is the Anthony’s Shaft (Antonijev rov), the oldest preserved entrance to the mine, where visitors follow a guided underground route through mining tunnels and exhibits.

Tours include protective coats and helmets, and last around 90 minutes, offering insight into mining life, the history of mercury extraction, and technical innovations from the past centuries.

Opening times vary by season, but guided tours are usually offered daily from 10:00 to 15:00. It’s best to check or reserve in advance, especially outside the summer months. The entrance fee is €13 for adults, €10 for students, and €6 for children. Parking is available near the mine entrance, and the town also offers additional attractions such as the Idrija Lace Museum.

Škocjan Caves

The Škocjan Caves are another UNESCO-listed natural wonder, known for their vast underground chambers and the Reka River canyon that runs through them. Unlike Postojna, this cave system is more rugged and awe-inspiring, with footbridges suspended over deep underground gorges.

Tours follow marked, secure paths and are always accompanied by a guide. The main loop includes the Silent Cave and the Murmuring Cave sections, lasting about 1.5 to 2 hours and involving some moderate walking. While the caves are mostly underground and protected from rain, some access paths are outdoors, so a waterproof jacket is still recommended.

The entrance fee is €22 for adults, €16 for students, and €11 for children. The cave is open every day, with tours scheduled at set times depending on the season (generally starting from 10:00, with the last around 15:30). Parking at the site costs around €2–3 for a standard car.

Technical Museum of Slovenia (Tehniški muzej) – Bistra

The Technical Museum in Bistra, located in a former Carthusian monastery about 25 km from Ljubljana, is the country’s largest museum dedicated to science and technology. It covers a wide range of topics, including transport, printing, electrical engineering, forestry, hunting, and carpentry.

One highlight is the automobile collection, which includes historical cars once used by President Tito, as well as early Slovenian-made vehicles and engines. The museum is mostly indoors, making it perfect for a rainy day, although some open-air exhibits are located in the courtyards and surrounding park.

The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 to 17:00 (closed Mondays and some public holidays). Entrance costs €8 for adults, €5 for students, and €4 for children. Parking is free at the museum entrance.