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“Travel Man” Spends 48 Hrs in Slovenia

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Barely scratching the surface. 

Earlier this year British comedians Richard Ayoade and Eddie Izzard visited Ljubljana to film an episode of Travel Man -  “48 Hours in Slovenia”. Your mileage may vary with regard to the humour, and if you know anything about cityand the bigger tourist sights (Postojna, Bled) then you’ll learn very little, but there’s always some entertainment to be had in seeing the place you call home through foreign eyes.

That said, to these eyes, those of a professional observer of all things Slovene, this show was a missed opportunity, the kind of the thing that makes you realise once again what we lost with Anthony Bourdain’s passing.

Still, it’s making a big noise in the local media, so here it is embedded on the Facebook page of Ljubljana Castle (since the copy we had here has been removed).

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Travel Man: 48 Hours in... – Season 7, Episode 7

Where to watch, travel man: 48 hours in... — season 7, episode 7.

Watch Travel Man: 48 Hours in... — Season 7, Episode 7 with a subscription on Prime Video.

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Richard Ayoade is joined by Eddie Izzard for two days in Slovenia, where they begin by trying Slovenian tapas and the country's orange wine in the capital city Ljubljana. Day two starts with a trip out of town to the stunningly beautiful Lake Bled, where they try summer tobogganing and a spot of rowing, while there's also a magic church bell, custard pastries and a funicular ride to Ljubljana Castle.

• Originally Aired September 24, 2018
• Runtime 24 minutes
• Content Rating United States of America TV-PG
• Network Channel 4
• Created January 8, 2019 by Administrator admin
• Modified April 14, 2024 by topbanana

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Ep 3. Ljublajana

• September 24, 2018

Travel Man: 48 Hours in... is a travel documentary series that follows comedian Richard Ayoade as he travels to different cities around the world for a weekend trip. In each episode, Ayoade explores the city's culture, cuisine, and attractions within a 48-hour timeframe.

In season 7 episode 3, Ayoade visits the picturesque city of Ljublajana, the capital of Slovenia. Located in the heart of Europe, Ljubljana is a charming city that boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Despite its small size, Ljubljana has a lot to offer tourists, and Ayoade is eager to explore the city's hidden gems.

The episode begins with Ayoade arriving in Ljubljana and checking into his hotel. He then heads out to explore the city's Old Town, a pedestrian-only zone that is home to some of Ljubljana's most iconic landmarks, such as the Triple Bridge, the Ljubljana Castle, and the Dragon Bridge. Ayoade takes in the beautiful architecture, street art, and lively atmosphere of the Old Town, while also chatting with locals and trying out some of the city's traditional snacks.

For lunch, Ayoade visits one of Ljubljana's many open-air food markets, where he samples some of the city's most delicious dishes, such as the Slovenian sausage and the famous Burek pastry. He then takes a stroll along the scenic Ljubljanica River, which flows through the heart of the city and is lined with charming cafes and bars.

In the afternoon, Ayoade visits the Museum of Illusions, a unique and interactive museum that showcases the science of perception and illusions. Ayoade tests his senses with optical illusions, puzzles, and holograms, and learns about the secrets of the human brain.

For dinner, Ayoade meets up with a group of locals who take him to one of Ljubljana's hippest neighborhoods, where he tries out a variety of modern Slovenian dishes and trendy cocktails. He then heads out to experience Ljubljana's vibrant nightlife scene, which includes everything from live music venues to underground dance clubs.

The next day, Ayoade wakes up early to visit the Ljubljana Central Market, one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a hub of local culture and tradition. He samples some of the market's freshest produce, including artisan bread, honey, and homemade cheeses.

Ayoade then embarks on a scenic drive to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia's most famous natural attractions, known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning surroundings, and picturesque island with a church. Ayoade takes a boat ride to the island and hikes up to the church, where he learns about the local folklore and traditions.

The show concludes with Ayoade heading back to Ljubljana to catch his flight back home, reflecting on his experience in the city and making plans to return one day.

Overall, season 7 episode 3 of Travel Man: 48 Hours in... offers a fascinating glimpse into the beautiful city of Ljubljana, its unique culture, and rich history. From its lively streets to its stunning natural landscapes, Ljubljana is a must-see destination for any traveler, and this episode is sure to inspire and entertain viewers from around the world.

• Channel Sundance Now
• First Aired September 24, 2018
• Content Rating TVPG
• Language English

The 8 best places to go in Slovenia

May 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana, is a charming delight full of culture, bike trails, museums and cafes © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet

For proof that good things come in small packages, one need only visit Slovenia . In an area half the size of Switzerland, this Central European country packs in breathtaking mountain scenery, lively coastal resorts, fashionable cities, crystal-clear lakes and rivers, and charming, isolated villages.

Better still, because of this compact size, you can take in most or all of these delights within the course of one trip. In the span of a few days, you can walk in the Alps, kayak a glacial waterway, visit some world-class winemaking regions, and take a dip in the sea. Don't worry if you're not able to name many cities, regions or landmarks in this stunning country. Slovenia – hiding in plain sight – is waiting to be explored.

1. Ljubljana

Best for spectacular architecture

All roads in Slovenia lead to the capital, and not just because it’s situated in the center of the country. Ljubljana buzzes with active, cycle-riding residents, alternative culture and eclectic restaurants, museums and cafes. However, the setting alone is worth a visit – every square features stunning architecture that reveals the city’s history in stone and eye-catching ornamentation.

Start your investigation at the fairytale-like Ljubljana Castle , an ancient hilltop fortification whose origins date back to the 12th century. You can either hike a short but steeply inclined path to the top or take the funicular. Once there, poke around old medieval rooms that have been preserved and take in attractions like the Slovenian History Exhibition or Museum of Puppetry .

Make your way back to the Old Town to admire the main square, Prešernov Trg , and its baroque, salmon-pink 17th-century Franciscan Church of the Annunciation . Several buildings here sport beautiful art nouveau and secessionist facades from the early 20th century.

Fans of early-modern architecture will want to scout out the works of native son Jože Plečnik, a gifted architect who bequeathed several breathtaking bridges and buildings to the city during the first half of the 20th century. Many of his creations, including the dazzling Triple Bridge and the interior of the National & University Library , are UNESCO-protected works of cultural heritage.

2. Lake Bled

Best for a romantic holiday

Whether you know it or not, you’ve likely seen Lake Bled before. The image of a seemingly mythical church standing in the middle of a turquoise lake is Slovenia’s most iconic image. Even in two dimensions, this magical place pulls at your heartstrings. When you see it in person, with that special someone by your side, get ready for fireworks.

Begin with a sunrise walk around the lake, about 5km and almost entirely flat. Three footpaths signposted " Grad" lead toward Bled Castle ; each one involves a climb but it's worth it for the views. Then visit magical, tiny Bled Island in the middle of the lake. Board a pletna , a wooden boat that resembles a Venetian gondola, and head over to climb the 99 stairs into the Church of the Assumption of Mary .

No romantic outing here is complete without an easy hike to Vintgar Gorge , around 4km from the center of town. Boardwalks and bridges take visitors on an intimate journey across the magical 1600m-long ravine.

Planning tip: Buy tickets for Vintgar Gorge in advance . Entry is staggered to protect the gorge; pets are also welcome by purchasing a special ticket.

3. Lake Bohinj

Best for experiencing local culture

For a small country, Slovenia boasts a surprising amount of regional variation. The communities surrounding pristine Lake Bohinj – Slovenia’s largest natural lake, tucked into the Triglav National Park – truly lean into their regional identity. You’ll find makers here of everything from distinct dairy and cheese products to meats, honey, jam and even gin. To make it easier to find the genuine article, look for the “Bohinjsko” (from Bohinj) label signifying it’s locally produced.

Hike out into the rural hamlets north of the lake to learn more about local lifestyles. At the Alpine Dairy Farming Museum in Stara Fužina, exhibits explain how farm-to-table is more than just a dining trend – the locals are passionate about their heritage. Give in to the temptation to sip on whatever is handed to you and just listen.

Bohinj comes into its own in summer when you can swim or sail on the lake and hike or bike into the national park. Once you’re ready to travel again, board the scenic Bohinj Railway and ride it from the station at Bohinjska Bistrica all the way to Italy.

Planning tip: Lake Bohinj is lovely in springtime when the annual International Wildflower Festival allows you to experience the region from the roots up. Learn more about the magical activities in the area with our insider guide to Lake Bohinj .

Best for peeling back layers of history

Maribor could fit into several “best of” categories. Slovenia’s second-largest city anchors the country's Podravska wine region and has a thriving gourmet scene, including some of the country’s best restaurants. Plus, because it sits on the Drava River, it's a hub for adventure activities like rafting, cycling and hiking. But Maribor is, at its heart, a treasure chest of historic layers.

Settled time and again during the Stone Age, Celtic period and Roman era, the modern city dates back to the Middle Ages. First, stop in at Maribor Castle, home of the regional museum , to get a historical overview and then explore the main medieval market square, Glavni Trg .

Here, you’ll see the 16th-century Town Hall before taking a seat to enjoy a glass of wine at the Old Vine House , where the world’s oldest producing vine — more than 400 years old — climbs the facade and still produces vino. If you want to stretch your legs some more, hike 30 minutes out to an ancient, 12th-century castle known as Piramida .

Planning tip: Two excellent restaurants to try are Hiša Denk and Restavracija Mak . Book your table well in advance, particularly during the high season.

Best for outdoor adventure

At the edge of Triglav National Park, squeezed between the Julian Alps and the crystal-clear turquoise Soča River, Bovec is a haven for water-based activities. The frothy river, boasting unimaginable cerulean shades that come from the underlying bedrock itself, is just as stunning as you’ve heard and neither picture nor rumor does it justice.

The best way to experience the river is to join a white-water rafting or kayaking tour (they run from March to October). Canyoning – where groups make their way down a mountain stream in a gorge with techniques like abseiling, climbing, sliding and jumping – is gaining ground too. Bovec offers zip lining over the Julian Alps, with more than 3km of lines at the Adrenalin Park Bovec .

In winter, skiing is king, and nowhere is more popular than the Kanin Ski Centre. The biggest ski area in Slovenia shares custody with Italy, and the starting point for the gondola is in Bovec. Hit the slopes and watch the sea below.

Planning tip: Several rafting companies offer excursions for beginners and experts, including Nature's Ways and Kayak Soča .

6. Karst Region

Best for landscapes and caving

Slovenia’s Karst Region, which takes its name from its porous, limestone topography, is home to some of Europe’s largest and most-stunning cave systems. Two caves in particular, Postojna and Škocjan , stand out but the karst is riddled with dozens of underground attractions. Postojna Cave, one of the world's largest, features unparalleled stalagmite and stalactite formations. Once inside, take a 1.5-hour tour that unveils 5km of the expansive cave. More than half the journey is covered by a cool electric underground train.

The immense complex of the Škocjan Caves, 20km southwest of Postojna, is, if anything, more spectacular. The entire system was created by the Reka River, which carved its way over the millennia through a gorge beneath Škocjan village.

Planning tip: Aside from underground treasures, the Karst’s deep green hills are rich in fruits, ruby-red teran wine, pršut (dry-cured ham), and lots of picturesque villages with old stone churches.

Best for soaking up the sun

Such is the bounty of Slovenia that you can play in the mountains in the morning and lounge on the beach in the afternoon. When that urge strikes, Piran is the spot to soak up the rays, splash in the Adriatic and discover a unique destination along the country’s tiny 47km long coastline.

Often called the most beautiful town along the Slovenian Adriatic, Piran predates the Romans but got its present look in the Middle Ages as part of the Venetian Empire. Get a panoramic overview by climbing the stairs to the top of the bell tower, next to the 17th-century baroque Cathedral of St George . From here, you'll be able to see three countries at once.

Come down from your perch to Tartinijev Trg , the town’s nerve center, before heading to the Mediadom Pyrhani , a museum that offers a multimedia take on Piran history. But don't forget the reason you’ve come – a 15-minute walk takes you to Fiesa Beach for your cooling plunge into the sea.

Planning tip: The nearby Strunjan Landscape Park , east of Piran, offers two secluded (and harder-to-reach) beaches: Moon Bay and Bele Skale.

8. Goriška Brda

Best for sampling wines

Straddling the Italian border, Goriška Brda (or simply “Brda") is an absolute charmer: rolling hills lined with grapevines and sun-kissed orchards topped with small settlements and churches. The area is one of Europe's best-kept secrets. From one of the many perched villages scattered across the fertile hillsides, you’ll see a seemingly endless expanse of vineyards disappearing over the horizon.

A paradise for cyclists, the hills of Goriška Brda are home to dozens of scenic trails that are great for exploring on two wheels. Wineries to look out for include Klet Brda , the largest wine producer in Slovenia, with a well-stocked wine shop at its Dobrovo estate and excellent daily tours, Vinoteka Brda , and Edi Simčič , a third-generation family estate with tastings almost every day.

Planning tip: Like elsewhere in Slovenia, most local wine producers require visitors to call or book ahead to arrange a tasting.

This article was first published Jan 5, 2022 and updated May 2, 2024.

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Slovenia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is crazy to me because it’s incredible! Known for its mountains, ski resorts, fabulous wine, extensive cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe — but with a fraction of the crowds and for a fraction of the costs.

Ljubljana, the country’s vibrant capital, is considered one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities while Lake Bled, Slovenia’s Insta-famous hotspot, is just as stunning in person as it is in photographs.

Inhabited since prehistory, the Romans established numerous outposts around present-day Slovenia. The region was later annexed by various powers, including the Holy Roman Empire and the Hapsburgs. Slovenia saw heavy casualties during World War I and was seized by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy during World War II. After the war, the region was part of Yugoslavia until Slovenia (and Croatia) gained independence in 1991.

Today, this often-overlooked country is a favorite of hikers and history buffs, owing to its rugged landscape and contentious past. There’s a slew of outdoor activities here, making it the perfect destination for active travelers looking for less-crowded landscapes.

This travel guide to Slovenia can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this incredibly undervisited country.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Slovenia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in slovenia.

1. Wander Ljubljana

Ljubljana (pronouced lyoo-blyah-nuh) is a city built on myth and legend. According to Greek mythology, Jason and the Argonauts slayed a dragon here. Wander around the old town, gaze at the Baroque architecture, and climb the clock tower to take in the view.

2. Visit Piran

Piran is one of the most picturesque cities on the Adriatic coast. Its crown jewel is its old town, which is one of the best-preserved historical centers in the Mediterranean. Take in the historic Venetian architecture and relax in one of the many plazas.

3. Enjoy the views at Lake Bled

One of the most popular destinations in Slovenia, Lake Bled attracts thousands of visitors every year. Its main draw is the island in the middle of the lake, which is home to a 17th-century church. Visit the nearby Bled Castle overlooking the lake too (admission is 13 EUR).

4. Do some water sports

Slovenia has 7 sizeable lakes. From stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking to rappelling down waterfalls, there’s something for every fitness level and interest. Expect to pay around 15-20 EUR for a SUP or kayak rental and 65 EUR for a canyoning trip.

5. Go wine tasting

Wine lovers visiting Slovenia should head towards the Vipava Valley. Tucked beside the Italian border, the mild climate and closeness to the sea makes for ideal winemaking conditions. Expect to pay at least 150 EUR for a full day wine tour.

Other Things to See and Do in Slovenia

1. visit predjama castle.

Located one hour south of the capital, Predjama Castle was originally constructed in the 13th century. It is now a Renaissance-style castle with a Gothic façade, built right into the side of a cliff. (Fun fact: a Slovenian robber baron once called the castle home.) There’s also a “secret” tunnel that leads to the nearby Postojna Cave. The cave stretches over 24,000 meters and is open to the public (it’s the second-largest cave system in the country). Admission to the castle is 13.80 EUR, the cave is 25.80 EUR, and a combined ticket is 35.70 EUR.

2. Go hiking in Triglav National Park

The Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park. Opened in 1981 and spanning 880 square kilometers (310 square miles), the park is named after the country’s tallest mountain. Thanks to its mountains, hills, lakes, waterfalls, springs, and rivers, the park is a magnet for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can also kayak, raft, skydive, parasail, and even scuba dive here. It’s a beautiful park and well worth a visit. To extend your time in the park, you can stay overnight in one of the mountain huts (from 80 EUR) or the lodge (from 26 EUR). It’s free to visit the park, though some attractions require small fees to visit (generally 2-5 EUR).

3. Tour Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle was built in the 16th-century and boasts some of the best views of the city. Perched on Castle Hill above the city, you can take a self-guided tour and wander the grounds yourself or take a guided tour to learn more about the castle and its history. Inside the castle are several permanent exhibitions on its history, the Museum of Puppetry, an escape room, and a café and restaurant. Admission is 13 EUR and includes a guided tour and a return funicular ticket (since the castle is up a hill).

4. Hang out in Velika Planina

Located northeast of the medieval town of Kamnik, Velika Planina translates to ‘Big Pasture Plateau’ — and that is pretty much what it is. This huge, empty plateau is dotted by a handful of small traditional wooden houses surrounded by the towering snow-capped Alps. From June through September, the houses are used by local shepherds whose livestock graze on the plateau, creating a seasonal village open to tourists. Be sure to sample some of the amazing cheeses and local dishes (like barley stew or hota , a bean and sauerkraut hotpot). To get here you either need to drive to the top or take a 10-minute gondola lift ride from Kamniska Bistrica, a nearby village, which costs 17 EUR for a roundtrip ticket.

5. Tour the Skocjan Caves

Located one hour from Ljubljana, this enormous cavern system spans over 1,000 acres. It’s considered one of the most important cave systems in the world as it is one of the largest, home to a unique ecosystem. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times and there are underground streams and rivers, massive stone formations, and a 47-meter-high bridge you can cross. The caves have been in use for millennia, appearing in written sources as far back as the 2nd-century BCE. They are awesome! Guided tours start from 18 EUR. You can also arrange day trips from Ljubljana.

6. Go skiing

For the best skiing, head to Vogel in the Lake Bohinj area. It offers both downhill slopes and cross-country trails. The regular ski season lasts from December all the way until May. Expect to pay around 10-30 EUR for a lift pass. You can also get multi-day passes that bring down the price per day. Osovje, Luce, and Dole Pri Litiji are some of the most affordable places to ski if you’re on a budget.

7. Visit the Rogatec Open-Air Museum

The Rogatec Open-Air Museum is a small but fascinating living museum that highlights what life was like in rural Slovenia in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Located near the border with Croatia , you’ll learn about everything from basket weaving to blacksmithing to how livestock was kept and managed. Admission is 3 EUR. It’s a bit cheesy but if you have time (or are looking for a family-friendly activity), stop by!

8. Hike to Lovrenc Lakes

For an easy and beautiful hike that won’t take much time, head to Lovrenc Lakes. Located near Pohorje in the northeast, this one-hour trail begins at the Rogla Ski Center. Follow the wooden footpath that leads to the middle of the bog where there’s a viewing tower to climb for stunning views over across the marsh and forest. There are longer full-day trails and mountain bike paths too. Admission is free.

9. Do some underground cycling

Underground biking is one of the more unusual experiences that you may not find anywhere else. Near Mezica in the north, cyclists can explore the Slovenian underground by taking a tour underneath Mount Peca via its disused lead and zinc mine shafts. There are 5 kilometers (3 miles) of underground trails that you can explore with tours costing 40-50 EUR. You can also kayak sections of the underground mine too (tickets are the same price).

10. Drink beer from a fountain

The only beer fountain in the world is in the Slovenian town of Žalec. Located in the hop-growing capital of Slovenia, the Green Gold Fountain opened in 2016. Choose between six different beers to taste (including a green beer specially brewed just for the fountain). Simply buy a special mug for 8 EUR and sample each of the six beers on tap in the fountain. The fountain operates from April to October. Continue your beer adventure by visiting the nearby Eco-Museum of Hop-Growing and Brewing Industry in Slovenia.

11. Take a food tour

Slovenia travel costs.

Accommodation – Hostel dorms with 4-6-beds cost 16-22 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and self-catering facilities are common. For a private room, expect to pay 40-50 EUR per night.

Budget hotels start at 40 EUR per night. Many budget hotels include free breakfast (but not all do) so if you’re on a budget be sure to book a hotel that includes free breakfast.

Airbnb is another budget-friendly option in Slovenia, with private rooms starting at 35 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 70 EUR per night (though prices average double that if you don’t book in advance).

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds are available around the country. Prices start around 12 EUR for a basic plot without electricity. Wild camping is illegal.

Food – Slovenian cuisine is influenced by Italian, Austrian, and Balkan cooking. Spicy sausage, goulash, and schnitzel make regular appearances and are easy to find in most restaurants. Burek , a flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese, is a local favorite for when you’re on the go. Other popular dishes are žlikrofi (potato-filled ravioli) and žganci (a porridge served with sauerkraut). On the coast, there’s plenty of mussels, fish, and squid.

An inexpensive dish at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 8-11 EUR, and a pizza costs about the same. International food, such as Thai and Indian cuisine, can only be found in the capital. Expect to pay between 7-13 EUR for a main dish.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 6 EUR for a combo meal, though you can get a doner kebab for around 3 EUR. A beer costs 2.50-3 EUR, a glass of wine is 3-5 EUR, and a cappuccino or latte costs 2 EUR. Burek , the flaky pastry mentioned above, can be found in cafes around the country for 2-3 EUR.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 15-18 EUR, including a drink. Prices are closer to 25 EUR for a steak dinner with a drink.

Some of my favorite places to eat and drink were Restaurant Manna, Vino & Ribe, and My Dumplings of Slovenia.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 30-40 EUR for basic staples like meat, potatoes, cheese, pasta, and seasonal produce.

Backpacking Slovenia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to pay around 50 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, doing free activities like walking tours and hikes, and using local transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of about 120 EUR, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out at budget-friendly for most meals, drink a bit more, do some castle tours, go cycling or kayaking, and take some taxis to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 225 EUR per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, do as many activities as you want, rent a car, and book some private guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Slovenia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Slovenia is one of the cheaper countries in Europe. If you’re trying to save money, it’s easy to do so, especially since most of the outdoor activities are free. Here are some ways to save money in Slovenia:

• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are a fun and budget-friendly way to learn about a new destination. Ljubljana Free Tour has a free tour that covers all the major sites in the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Get the Ljubljana Card – This city card grants entrance to 20+ museums, a free guided tour, a trip on the funicular, a boat cruise, free public transportation, and a half-day bike rental. The card comes in 24, 48, and 72-hour versions costing 31-45 EUR respectively.
• Ride Flixbus – Flixbus is an affordable way to get around the country (and region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for overnight and long-haul bus journeys.
• Cook your own meals – If you’re on a tight budget, book accommodation that has a kitchen. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it keeps your budget intact
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing (or a similar sharing economy site) is a great way to not only save money but you’ll meet knowledgeable locals who can help you better understand the city and its people.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major cities in Slovenia are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few extra euros.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Bring a reuseable water bottle – The tap water in Slovenia is safe to drink so bring a reusable bottle to avoid buying single-use plastic. LifeStraw makes bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s especially helpful if you’re out hiking).

Where to Stay in Slovenia

Slovenia has some great hostels in all the popular backpacker spots around the country. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Slovenia:

• Hostel Vrba (Ljubljana)
• Aladin hostel (Ljubljana)
• Proteus (Postojna)
• Hostel Lukna (Mojstrana)
• Hosteller (Bled)
• Adriatic Piran (Piran)
• Uni Youth Hostel (Maribor)

How to Get Around Slovenia

Public transportation – Public transportation prices vary by city but expect to pay around 1.20 EUR for a standard adult ticket.

Bus – Flixbus is one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel around Slovenia (and into neighboring countries as well). The 90-minute journey from Ljubljana to Bled is 5-9 EUR while the 75-minute bus ride from Ljubljana to Koper is 8-13 EUR. The 2.5-hour ride from Ljubljana to Zagreb, Croatia costs 12-18 EUR.

Train – Trains connecting Slovenia with other European cities run daily. Thanks to Slovenia being part of the Eurail network, it can be a great budget way to travel both internationally and domestically. This post has everything you need to know about the Eurail Pass .

Slovenia Railways is the sole company operating domestic trains. You can find the full timetable and pricing on their website. It is always better to buy your ticket in advance as prices can double if you buy them last minute.

The 2.5-hour train ride from Ljubljana to Koper costs 11 EUR while the hour-long trip from Ljubljana to Bled is 5 EUR. The trip to Zagreb, Croatia from Ljubljana takes around 2.5 hours and costs 24 EUR while the 3.5-hour journey to Graz, Austria is 13-18 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

Fly – There are no domestic flights in Slovenia as it’s a small country.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 25-30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Be sure to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as you need one for the rental.

When to Go to Slovenia

While it is a small country, Slovenia has a very diverse climate in its three distinct regions. In the mountains of the north, there’s an alpine climate, the central lowlands have a more continental climate, and the west has a more Mediterranean climate.

Summer is the busiest and most popular time to visit. From June-August, the weather is much more reliable though prices rise slightly and there are far more tourists around (especially at Lake Bled). Expect daily highs around 23°C (73°F).

To beat the crowds, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season — either April-May or September-October. The weather is warm enough to hike and explore but you won’t have to compete with the growing number of visitors.

Unless you plan on skiing, it is probably best to skip the winter months. Slovenia gets cold and temperatures can drop below freezing.

How to Stay Safe in Slovenia

Slovenia is not just one of the safest places to visit in Europe — it’s one of the safest countries in the entire world. Ranking 6th on the Global Peace Index, Slovenia is a country where you can travel freely without any noteworthy concerns for your safety (the United States, for reference, is ranked 117th).

Of course, you still want to use some common sense. Don’t flash any valuables and keep an eye out for pickpockets in busy areas like public buses or bus/train stations. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in the vehicle overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

While scams here are rare, to avoid getting ripped off, read my post on common travel scams to avoid.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Slovenia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Slovenia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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• Episode aired Oct 21, 2019

Richard Ayoade begins his final stint presenting the wry travel series in Dubrovnik with Stephen Merchant. The pair take a Game of Thrones (2011) tour, a buggy safari and a ferry across to t... Read all Richard Ayoade begins his final stint presenting the wry travel series in Dubrovnik with Stephen Merchant. The pair take a Game of Thrones (2011) tour, a buggy safari and a ferry across to the cursed island of Lokrum. Richard Ayoade begins his final stint presenting the wry travel series in Dubrovnik with Stephen Merchant. The pair take a Game of Thrones (2011) tour, a buggy safari and a ferry across to the cursed island of Lokrum.

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• Connections References Game of Thrones (2011)

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• October 21, 2019 (United Kingdom)
• United Kingdom
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