Looking for the most beautiful places in Slovenia to visit? We’ve got you covered, with 15 of the most stunning places to see in this gorgeous country.
Set in the heart of Europe, Slovenia is a gorgeous country, with stunning scenery no matter where you look. We had the opportunity to visit Slovenia in June and it’s just as beautiful in person as it is in photos.
While it’s hard to narrow down a list of the most beautiful spots, as everywhere you look is another postcard-worthy view, we have compiled the 15 most beautiful places in Slovenia to visit. From the charming streets of Ljubljana to the stunning peaks of Mount Triglav and the iconic Lake Bled or the gorgeous Soča River, each corner of Slovenia promises stunning scenery and unforgettable experiences.
Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia
Slovenia is a gorgeous country with so many stunning places that it’s hard to narrow down the top places in Slovenia. Nevertheless, we’ve put together a list of the must see places in Slovenia, from beautiful cities to gorgeous landscapes and stunning natural wonders.
Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia Map
Beautiful Slovenia Cities to Visit
Ljubljana
Ljubljana, situated in the heart of Slovenia, is the capital and largest city in the country. With a mix of medieval charm, beautiful architecture and the picturesque Ljubljanica River weaving through the city, it’s not hard to see why Ljubljana is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.
Known as the greenest city in Europe, Ljubljana is very walkable, with pedestrian-only streets that wind through the Old Town. Here the medieval charm is evident, with well-preserved architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and the iconic Ljubljana Castle overlooking the city from its perch atop the aptly named Castle Hill.
One of the most beautiful spots in the city is Ljubljana’s main square, Prešernov trg Square, which is dominated by the pink hues of the Franciscan Church. Other beautiful buildings surround the square and leading from the square to the Old Town is the unique Triple Bridge, where stairways lead down to terraces that run along the Ljubljanica River.
Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the river, cross one of the many picturesque bridges, like the Dragon Bridge and the Cobbler’s Bridge, or take a sightseeing cruise along the Ljubljanica River for a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks.
Beyond its physical beauty, Ljubljana is also known for its welcoming and laid-back atmosphere that instantly makes visitors feel at home. Outdoor cafes line the streets alongside the river and numerous green spaces invite you to slow down and take in the charm of the city.
While there are plenty of things to do in Ljubljana, it’s a place where you can simply wander through the streets and along the river, enjoying the city’s fairytale-like charm.
Maribor
Surrounded by green hills and set in the heart of the Slovenian wine region, Maribor is one of the best cities in Slovenia to visit.
Within the city, the Drava River passes through the Old Town which is filled with well-preserved medieval architecture, charming squares and lively streets.
Wander through the pedestrian streets in the center, admire the beautiful red-roofed buildings surrounding Glavni Trg, the main square, and take in the 15th-century Maribor Castle, an impressive building set in the center of the city.
Then stroll through the riverside Lent district, where you’ll find some of the most important and historical sights, including an ancient vine that was planted 400 years ago and is the oldest in the world.
Just outside the city, the Pohorje Mountains provide plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing and panoramic views. Or head to the north and east and discover the picturesque valleys that are home to some of Slovenia’s best wine regions.
Celje
Celje is a town steeped in history and charm and one of the most beautiful cities in Slovenia. While it’s not a popular tourist destination, the city boasts some excellent museums and gorgeous architecture, as well as being home to many historical and cultural landmarks, including the beautiful Celje Castle.
Perched high on a hill with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, Celje Castle is a medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century. Wander through its well-preserved walls and towers, or stroll through Celje’s Old Town below, with its cobbled streets, charming squares and colourful buildings.
In addition to its historical past, Celje also offers plenty of green spaces, including the City Park along the Savinja River and its unique Tree House, as well as nearby Lake Šmartinsko and plenty of hiking and biking trails in the nearby hills and forests.
Beautiful Towns in Slovenia
Piran
Located on Slovenia’s coastline, Piran is easily one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.
Slovenia’s coast isn’t large, but it’s stunning. Situated on the Istrian Peninsula, alongside neighbouring countries, Croatia and Italy, Piran has a very different feel than other Slovenian towns like Ljubljana, Ptuj or Bled.
Here you’ll find a mix of both Slovenian and Venetian influences, as the town has been part of Italy and Slovenia throughout the years.
Piran boasts a picturesque harbour, where colourful boats bob gently in the crystal-clear water. The main square, Tartini Square, serves as the heart of the town, as is surrounded by charming buildings and the iconic St. George’s Church.
Wander the narrow winding streets, discovering hidden corners and local artisan shops, relax at an outdoor cafe or take a leisurely stroll along the seawall for panoramic views of the coastline.
Climb the church tower for a bird’s eye view of the square or walk along the city walls for stunning views of the city set.
There are plenty of things to do in Piran, but with its quaint Old Town, reminiscent of a small town in Southern Italy, and beautiful views, it’s easy to simply wander, take in the sights and soak in the charming atmosphere.
Potoroz
Potorož, set on the Istrian coast next to Piran, is renowned for its spas and stunning beaches and is one of the prettiest towns in Slovenia.
Walk along the wide tree-lined boulevard, with luxurious hotels, outdoor cafes, excellent restaurants and shops, or relax on the large man-made beach and take in the sea views.
Stroll along the seaside promenade, dip your toes in the Adriatic Sea, sip a coffee or enjoy an excellent meal while watching the sunset over the water.
The nearby Sečovlje saltpans are also an interesting and unique sight to see and offer some excellent views along the coast.
Whichever way you choose to spend your time in Potorož, take your time to unwind by the sea and soak in the beauty of the Slovenian coastline.
Ptuj
Located in Eastern Slovenia on the Drava River, Ptuj is a fascinating mix of history and charm.
One of the oldest towns in Slovenia, Ptuj has a charming historical center, with cobblestone streets, churches and towers, and well-preserved medieval architecture.
The pedestrian-friendly streets invite you to wander and explore or head up to the impressive castle that sits high on a hill above the town. From the castle, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of the red-roofed buildings of Ptuj and the Drava River.
While Ptuj is beautiful to wander through, the surrounding area is just as lovely to explore. Surrounded by picturesque valleys and rolling hills, which are known for some of the best wines in Slovenia, it’s worth exploring the nearby area as well.
Best Places to Visit in Slovenia
Lake Bled
With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, the impressive Bled Castle overlooking the lake, and its picturesque tiny island, Lake Bled is a scene straight out of a fairy tale. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, and as it’s easy to get to from Ljubljana, Lake Bled is definitely a place you need to see.
Take a traditional wooden Pletna boat out to the island, where you can explore the island and visit the 17th-century Church of the Assumption, which is a popular venue for weddings.
Back on the shore, be sure to try the local speciality, the famous Bled cream cake, found at cafes around the lake and stroll along the lake’s promenade, which offers stunning views of the water.
Whether you’re strolling along the lakeshore, rowing across the lake to the island, or simply taking in the views from above, it’s easy to see why Lake Bled is one of the must-see places in Slovenia.
Here’s more information about getting from Ljubljana to Lake Bled and
Lake Bohinj
Set in Triglav National Park against the impressive backdrop of the Julian Alps, Lake Bohinj is just as beautiful as the more popular Lake Bled. In fact, I thought it was one of the most beautiful places in the Julian Alps, and a must-see when visiting Slovenia.
The largest permanent lake in Slovenia, Lake Bohinj is surrounded by dense forests and the towering peak of Mount Triglav. Less crowded than its counterpart Lake Bled, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and take in the beauty of the area.
While it has a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere than Bled, there are still plenty of things to do at Lake Bohinj. Take a walk around the lake, visit the spectacular Slap Savica, a waterfall that’s worth the hike, or take in the views from the top of Mount Vogel.
Ribčev Laz, one of the traditional small villages in Slovenia, is also worth exploring. The iconic Church of St. John the Baptist is located just across a stone arch bridge near the lake and makes for a picturesque view, whether admiring from the water’s edge or taking a closer look at the frescoes painted on the church walls.
There are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water as well, whether you choose to rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board, or simply go for a dip in the crystal-clear water.
While Lake Bohinj is undeniably stunning, part of its charm is the chance to escape the busy crowds and soak in the beautiful natural scenery that Slovenia has to offer.
Postojna Cave
Hidden beneath the surface of Slovenia is the awesome and impressive wonder of Postojna Cave. This expansive karst cave system, one of the most visited in Europe, is stunning to see, with stalactites and stalagmites that have been evolving for millions of years.
A double-track train takes you through the cave where you can admire these amazing formations up close and then pass through the large awe-inspiring chambers, like the Gothic Hall and the Concert Hall, where live concerts are still held.
Postojna Cave is also home to the unique olm, also known as the human fish, a rare species that is only found in these caves. While it’s hard to see, you can visit the terrarium for a closer look after touring the cave.
It’s an incredible experience to walk through the caves, past stalagmites and stalactites that have been forming for millions of years. Postojna Cave is an impressive sight and one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.
Predjama Castle
Only a few kilometres from Postojna Caves, Predjama Castle is one of Europe’s most dramatic castles, and one of the most interesting and unique that we’ve ever seen.
Built within the mouth of a cave, Predjama Castle is the largest cave castle in the world and one of the top places to see in Slovenia.
Step inside to see how this castle was built into its rocky surroundings, and explore the medieval architecture inside. It’s an excellent, self-guided tour and one that’s well worth it.
My kids loved the audioguide and enjoyed learning some of the interesting facts, such as stories of the famous resident, Erazem Lueger, who was a fugitive hiding out in the castle. Unfortunately, he was killed by a stone catapult while using the outhouse, which was added to the side of the castle and lacked the protection of the cave system. See what you learn when you travel with young boys?
Predjama Castle is easily combined with a visit to Postojna Cave and is included in most entrance fee packages to the cave. Even if you’re not interested in taking a tour of the inside, it’s worth the short detour from Postojna Cave to see the unique castle built into the side of the cave.
Vintgar Gorge
Just a few kilometres from Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge is another of Slovenia’s best places to visit. Carved out by the Radovna River, this stunning natural spectacle is a perfect example of Slovenia’s natural beauty.
A wooden boardwalk follows the river for 1.6km (1 mile) through the gorge, where the rushing water turns different shades of green and turquoise, depending on the light. Follow the path alongside the water, where sheer rock walls rise on either side and wooden bridges crisscross across the river.
Along the boardwalk trail, a charming stone railway bridge passes overhead, and at the end of the boardwalk, the impressive Šum Waterfall provides a spectacular end to the hike.
For more information on the hike and how to best experience the gorge, read this post on Vintgar Gorge: What to Know Before You Go.
Skocjan Caves
Another fabulous cave system in Slovenia, Skocjan Cave is a subterranean wonder, highlighting the remarkable underground karst landscapes.
This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique and awe-inspiring journey underground, revealing immense chambers, intricate formations and an underground river that has carved its way through the limestone over millennia.
With similar formations to Postojna Cave, the towering stalactites and stalagmites create a surreal experience, reaching heights over 15 meters (49 feet).
A guided tour takes you through the cave, past these remarkable formations, and across a narrow bridge that passes over the underground river, where you can even glimpse an underground waterfall.
It’s an incredible experience and easy to see why it’s one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.
Beautiful Places in the Julian Alps
Vrsic Pass
Passing through the Julian Alps and Triglav National Park, the Vršič Pass provides some of Slovenia’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Connecting the towns of Kranjska Gora and Trenta, this is an epic drive through the heart of the mountains.
The drive to Vršič is an adventure in itself, with a series of hairpin turns and breathtaking views unfolding at every bend. Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys and sheep grazing in the meadows await.
The road ascends to an elevation of 1,611 meters (5,285 feet), making it the highest mountain pass in Slovenia. Take a moment at the top to breathe in the crisp air and soak in the stunning views, or hike one of the many trails that lead through the national park.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, or simply looking to experience the beauty of the mountains, the Vršič Pass offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the country.
It was our first introduction to the gorgeous scenery of the country, and for me at least, driving the Vršič Pass was one of the highlights of our time travelling in Slovenia.
Kranjska Gora
Set amid the Julian Alps near the border of Italy and Austria, Kranjska Gora is a picturesque alpine resort town that is perfect to visit anytime of the year.
In the winter, Kranjska Gora transforms into a winter wonderland, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities on its well-groomed slopes and world-class ski jumping facilities.
During the warmer months, Kranjska Gora is also a great place to visit, with hiking and cycling trails providing opportunities to explore the surrounding mountains. The beautiful Lake Jasna, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountains, is an ideal spot to relax or spend the afternoon on the water.
Whether you visit in the summer, spring, fall or winter, Kranjska Gora is undeniably one of the most beautiful towns in Slovenia.
Soca Valley
The picturesque Soča Valley is known for its beauty as well as the outdoor adventure activities that it offers.
The Soča River, one of the most beautiful rivers in the world, is renowned for its vivid turquoise colour, as well as for its outdoor experiences. Kayaking and rafting experiences are one of the most popular activities on the river while hiking or relaxing along the riverbank are other favourites.
The charming town of Bovec is the largest and most popular place to visit in the Soca Valley. Here you’ll find most of the adventure activities, as well as hiking and biking trails, and in the winter, skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, experiencing the rush of adventure sports or simply soaking in the stunning landscapes, Bovec and the Soca Valley offer a perfect blend of excitement and natural beauty in the heart of the Soča Valley.
How to See These Beautiful Places in Slovenia
The easiest and best way to get around Slovenia is by car. We did a Slovenia road trip and managed to see some amazing places in the country that we wouldn’t have been able to visit without a car.
While you can visit much of the country by car or bus, driving in Slovenia allows you to see small villages, drive through the mountains and access other areas of the country that aren’t easily reached with public transportation.
We often use trains and buses in Europe, but this is one of the times that I recommend renting a car. We personally use and recommend Discover Cars to find the best deals on car rentals. Get a quote on Discover Cars here.
Final Thoughts: Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia
Situated in the heart of Europe, Slovenia is a stunning country with historical sites, outdoor adventures and gorgeous scenery everywhere you look.
From the medieval streets of Ljubljana and Celje to the stunning scenery of Lake Bled and Bohinj, the awe-inspiring subterranean world of Postojna or Skocjan Cave or the gorgeous adventure-filled Soča Valley, there are plenty of beautiful places in Slovenia to explore.
Which of these best places in Slovenia will you visit first?
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For more tips and inspiration on travel in Slovenia and Central Europe, be sure to check out these posts:
- Vintgar Gorge: What to Know Before You Go
- Best Things to Do at Lake Bohinj [+ Where to Stay & Why You Should Visit]
- 15 of the Best Souvenirs from Slovenia
- Driving in Slovenia
- Best Things to Do in Piran
- Driving the Vrsic Pass
- Is Postojna Cave Worth Visiting? Everything You Need to Know About Visiting
