Located in the Balkan peninsula and often mistaken for Slovakia, Slovenia is a small yet beautiful country offering diverse landscapes for all types of travellers. Whether you’re after a walking break or want to relax by the famous Lake Bled, hike by the Julian or European alps, explore some underground caves, see local architecture or enjoy the coasts of the Mediterranean -this place has got you covered!
If it’s your first trip to Slovenia and want to cover the main highlights over a long weekend or a 3-day trip, here’s what I recommend:
- Ljubljana (the capital)
- Lake Bled
- Postojna Underground Caves
Day 1: Ljubljana
The charming capital should not be missed. It’s most likely you’ll fly into here as there’s frequent flights from other European cities or travel here overland from neighbouring countries. Ljubljana is a picturesque city, so make sure to visit:
- The triple bridge (Plečnik’s Ljubljana)
- Ljubjana Castle (a steep walk indeed, great for a sunset view)
- Tivoli Park
- Zmajski most (Dragon Bridge)
- Ljubjana Museum
- Prešernov trg Square with the Franciscan Church
Day 2: Lake Bled
For a day trip to Lake Bled, start early by heading to the Ljubljana bus station in the morning (buses start from 5am and run hourly). Catch the direct bus to Lake Bled, the journey takes around 1 hr and 20 minutes and costs approximately £2-4. Things to do in Lake Bled:
- Walk around the lake
- Visit the Bled Island and church (this is very popular and small boats take tourists to explore the small island in the middle).
- Explore Bled Castle
- For the best panoramic views from the top, highly recommend a 3-5km hike. Download AllTrails app for hiking routes. I recommend going on the Ojstrica Loop trail, some steep gradients but I promise you it’s worth it and takes less than 2 hrs to complete.
You can enjoy some Slovenian lunch in neighbouring cafes and restaurants by the lake and enjoy tasty Truffle oil infused omelettes and pizzas.
You’ll need to head back the same way you arrived; ensure you get to the bus stop on time as there are less frequent buses in the evening heading back to Ljubljana.
Day 3: Postojna Caves
For your final full day, head to the Ljubljana bus station for a bus to the famous underground caves of Postojna, one of the largest explored cave systems in Europe and should not be missed out, if you’re into your geology and fascinated by stalactites -this is for you!
Note not all buses are direct so make sure to double check when purchasing tickets, but there are other ways of getting here, check Postojna caves for more information. As this is a popular attraction, you may want to book your tickets online during peak seasons or wait in long queues upon arrival. All tours are guided through miniature railway which run every ½ hr and lasts for over an hr.
Muslim Friendly:
Due to the climate here, food is quite hearty and on the heavier side which I found visiting in autumn. There are vegetarian options available in restaurants and the only halal options you’d encounter would be kebab shops in town. Slovenia is not the most popular destination in the Balkans for Muslim tourist, nonetheless the vibe is very similar to that of Austria.
How to get here:
If you’re planning on a short trip with day trips from the capital, let Ljubljana be your base. You can either fly here direct or from Trieste airport which is in Italy and get a bus here. Slovenia shares borders with Italy, Hungary, Croatia and Austria making international travel easier on buses, check out Flixbus for some overland routes.
Where to stay:
Somewhere centrally located within 1km of Ljubljana is a good start, there are a few hostels if you’re travelling solo and want to save on cash but not all female dorms have their own bathrooms. There are nicer guest houses and hotels located in the centre that typically costs £30-40pppn.
When to visit:
June – September is ideal but you can still visit in autumn and early spring though some mountainous regions may be cut off in winter months.
Top tips:
- Check out public holidays before visiting as this can affect local transport as it did with me.
- No Uber/Bolt equivalent but local taxis were inexpensive if shared.
- Do shopping in local grocery stores (there are Aldi/Lidl around) if you’re not keen on Slovenia food, stock up.
- Bring waterproofs and good boots for hiking.
- Hire a car if you can – allows you to see much more of the country at your own pace.
Halal Foodie Travel 