Five ideas for guided tours in Slovenia

• Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia

  Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a green gem nestled in the heart of the Dinaric Alps. With its warm atmosphere, well-preserved historical heritage and proximity to nature, Ljubljana is a must-see destination for travelers seeking authentic discoveries.
  The 11th century Ljubljana Castle is perched on a hill above the city. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city and the surrounding mountains. You can walk through its well-kept gardens, visit its exhibits and learn about the fascinating history of the region.
  Strolling through the city center, you will immediately be charmed by its lively and picturesque atmosphere. Prešeren Square, with its iconic statue of the Slovenian poet of the same name, is the heart of the city. From here, you can stroll along the Ljubljanica River, lined with cafes and terrace restaurants, and cross the many picturesque bridges that span its crystal clear waters.
  Ljubljana’s central market, housed in an Art Nouveau building, is a must-see for lovers of local food. Here you will find colorful stalls selling fresh products such as fruits, vegetables, honey and cheese, as well as typical souvenirs from the region. It is also a great place to enjoy a traditional Slovenian coffee and soak up the local atmosphere.
  Ljubljana is also a green city, with the Tivoli Park offering shady paths, flower gardens and playgrounds for children. The Ljubljana Botanical Garden, meanwhile, is a haven of peace with its collections of rare and exotic plants.
  Venturing outside the city center, you can discover other hidden treasures. The Metelkova district, once a military barracks, is now an alternative and artistic place where you will find colorful graffiti, trendy bars and open-air concerts.

• Kozjanski Regional Park

  Green hills, picturesque valleys and rich flora and fauna await you at the Kozjanski Regional Park, located in eastern Slovenia. With its 206 km², the park is a preserved natural gem where visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and discover the natural beauty of the region.
  One of the highlights of the park is the Sotla River, which winds through the area and offers swimming, fishing and boating opportunities. Hiking enthusiasts can also explore the park’s many hiking trails, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and traditional Slovenian villages. The park is also home to fascinating caves, majestic waterfalls and unique rock formations, such as the Bistrica River canyon. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Dobrna thermal baths to relax after a busy day.

• Ptuj, one of the oldest cities in Slovenia

  If you’re looking to explore Slovenia off the beaten path, the city of Ptuj is a great destination. Located in the Lower Styria region, this medieval town is one of the oldest in this Central European country, dating back to Roman times. With its cobblestone streets and well-preserved historical buildings, Ptuj is a true hidden gem.
  Stroll through the old town to admire the colorful facades of the houses and discover the narrow, winding streets that lead to the main square. Be sure to visit Ptuj Castle, a magnificent medieval building located on a hill overlooking the city. The city is also known for its cultural festivals, such as the famous Kurentovanje festival which takes place every year in February. It is a traditional festival of the region where masked and colorful characters invade the streets to chase away the winter. The city is located on the banks of the Drava River, offering many opportunities for walking and swimming in the summer.

• Village of Velika Planina

  The village of Velika Planina is lost in the mountains at an altitude of more than 1,500 meters and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding alpine landscape. Visitors can experience the peaceful and pastoral atmosphere of the village, which has retained its traditional Slovenian character. It can be reached by cable car from the village of Kamnik, which is about an hour’s drive from the Slovenian capital. Once in Velika Planina, visitors can explore the village on foot and admire the picturesque wooden chalets, which have been rebuilt on the foundations of the old shepherds’ houses.
  The village is surrounded by vast green pastures, where herds of traditional Slovenian cows, the famous “krasne planšarske krave” graze. Visitors can also walk along the hiking trails that crisscross the mountain and offer a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
  The village of Velika Planina is famous for its annual transhumance event, during which local shepherds bring their cows back to the valley from summer pasture. This traditional festival, which takes place every year in June, is an opportunity to learn about Slovenian pastoral culture and to participate in local festivities.

• Bled Lake

  Located in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is surrounded by imposing mountains and lush nature, the lake is a real gem of the region. The place is famous for its picturesque island, in the center of the lake, on which stands a baroque church. The panoramic view from the castle, perched on a hill overlooking the calm waters, is also a must-see. Visitors can walk along the lake shore, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
  The crystal clear waters of Lake Bled invite a refreshing swim in the summer, while kayaks, pedal boats and paddle boards are available for rent for those who want to explore the waters in more detail. Hiking enthusiasts can take excursions into the surrounding mountains to enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and valley below.