Hidden Gems in Europe: Guide to Traveling Slovenia

Tucked away between Italy, Hungary, Austria, and Croatia, traveling Slovenia is an amazing experience that tends to be off the beaten track. If you haven’t already, you should definitely check out this hidden gem in Europe.

Quick facts about Slovenia

Where is Slovenia?

Slovenia’s geography makes the country a connector between Western and Eastern Europe. Bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, make Slovenia a mixture of different cultures colliding.

Is Slovenia Good For Tourists?

Although it may not be at the top of tourists’ bucket list, Slovenia is an amazingly beautiful country. You can find lakes, mountains, and countless natural wonders in Slovenia, such as Tolmin Gorge inside Triglav National Park. With direct access to the rest of Europe, it’s a perfect destination for a weekend away.

Is it safe to travel Slovenia?

I never felt threatened in Slovenia, even outside of the tourist area. I also found the people to be very welcoming so I don’t think any traveler, solo or not, will have a problem.

Is Slovenia cheap to travel?

Compared to Western Europe, Slovenia is a bit cheaper. Compared to Eastern Europe, it is more expensive. This country really sits in the middle!

Is Slovenia easy to get around?

The country is well connected by buses and trains in some cases. Even if the train stations may seem empty and outdated, they are still running on fairly timely schedules! You don’t necessarily need a car to travel around Slovenia, although it would still be nice! I also used Blablacar during my time there, which allows you to catch a ride from someone with a car going in the same direction as you.

My experience traveling Slovenia

I spent a weekend in Slovenia last June and was amazed by the scenery and charm this small country holds.

To get to Slovenia the easiest way, you can fly into the capital city: Ljubljana (the j’s are pronounced like i’s). I, however, was coming from Italy, and had to take the train route to the capital.

I started in Trieste, although you can also start from Venice. From Trieste, you have to take a regional train to Gorizia. This takes about 40-45 minutes. After Gorizia you need to take a bus across the border to Nova Gorica, or just a taxi. From Nova Gorica there is a train directly to Ljubljana.

The capital of Slovenia is a wonder to behold. The city centre is historic, filled with shops and restaurants. There’s a castle, and riverboat trips so you can see the town from the water. Outside of the historic centre, you’ll find communist era buildings and colorful graffiti. This mixture of environment is always what draws me to the Balkan countries.

When in Slovenia, you absolutely have to visit the lakes around the area: the most famous being Lake Bled. Located only a couple hours outside Ljubljana, this lake is beautiful and easy to reach.

You can stroll around the lake for hours. There are small towns along the shore and restaurants with beautiful views. If you want to take a boat on the lake, you can find rentals in certain areas. There are also designated beach areas where you can swim and dozens of hiking trails.

My trip in Slovenia was way too short. I hope to return soon and get a better taste of this amazing country.