Best day trips from Ljubljana
You have been strolling down the streets of Ljubljana for the past 2 days using your BRB Travel Blog Ljubljana itinerary. While walking and enjoying a perfect gelato, you may have noticed the beautiful mountains in the background, not far from the city. These mountains, the Julian Alps, are worth visiting after spending time in the capital. If you haven’t received the calls from the mountains then maybe the Mediterranean will call you or maybe other cities in Slovenia or in neighbouring countries. One of the best things about Ljubljana is that it has a great location for other destinations!
Here are the best day trips from Ljubljana!
Velika Planina
Grab your hiking shoes and start your journey into the Slovenian Alps. Velika Planina, which translates to big pasture, is located in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, just minutes away from Northeast of Kamnik. To get the full experience, we booked a tour; I highly recommend you do the same.
The mountain plateau is characterized by its hut village. Even if they look empty, these huts are still home to many herdsmen and their cows. In fact, the cows can walk freely on the plateau and come back at night in the huts. In the early morning hours, the herdsmen will milk the cows that produce delicious milk. Once you get to the village, you can walk between the huts and look at their unique architecture. There is a church and also a museum explaining the history of the village. In fact, Velika Planina is the largest shepherd settlement in Europe. You can even rent a hut and spend a night or 2 in the village. After hiking around, we stopped in a herdsman’s hut where he and his wife cooked buckwheat with pork for us paired with homemade apple juice and sour milk. Delicious and obviously a must-stop as it is a traditional herdsman meal. You can also try the other dairy products offered at the herdsman's hut. After eating all that food, we continued our hiking journey using the many paths the plateau allows you to follow to… another restaurant! We stopped at the Zeleni Rob house where we had a jota (bean sauerkraut stew with sausage) and Rice, a barley stew with vegetables and sausage. Our guide had the house specialty: the cheese dumpling! Unfortunately, we were too full to try it!
The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, to say the least. I suggest you bring a raincoat with you. Also, due to the mountain air, the temperature is lower than in Ljubljana.
Kamnik
The region of Kamnik, located 20 minutes away from Ljubljana, should be your next stop. From hiking or biking to simply enjoying the beautiful landscapes, this region will make you discover another aspect of beautiful Slovenia: nature at its best.
Kamnik is a unique medieval old town located 20 minutes away from the capital. This sleepy town holds a hidden gem that even a few locals know about it, Kamnik Bistrica. The landscapes were absolutely stunning going from clear blue water to a beautiful gorge. You can even jump into the river to cool yourself down but watch out: the water is a little cold!
I would suggest visiting the gorge on your way back from the mountains. Also, Kamnik is building its reputation to be the craft beer hub of Slovenia, so be sure to stop for a drink or two. Unfortunately, due to our packed schedule, we did not have a chance to taste their beers.
How to get there
From Ljubljana, you can rent a car or you can either take a bus to Kamnik.
To get to Velika Planina, you can either hike from Kamnik or take the car. The hike from Kamnik is 3 hours and a half long but, according to our guide, it is well worth it! You can also bike but the hills are very steep. The last way to get there is to drive from Kamnik and reach the cable car at the bottom of the mountain. We chose the latter as I always think that the views from the cable car are one of a kind. The cable car costs 18 Euros per person and will also give you access to a lift chair that will easily bring you to the top of the mountain.
Arboretum
Volčji Potok Arboretum is located between Kamnik and Ljubljana. With its 80 hectares, the park allows you to walk through the many paths and enjoy the beautiful trees with the Julian Alps as a background. There are different gardens in the park: French, British and a rose garden. As you walk into the park, you will also notice the presence of Dinosaurs and whales! In fact, the dinosaurs and whales are very popular with kids. After being chased by all these creatures, why not stop and have a coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice at the park’s café in the middle of the trees? For all these reasons, we can understand now why the Arboretum is the most visited horticultural facility in Slovenia and one of the top attractions near Ljubljana. In 1950, the park was even declared a cultural and natural heritage of national importance. This is another great Ljubljana day trip.
Lake Bohinj
by Erki from Genem Travels
The largest lake in Slovenia is about 56 km from the capital Ljubljana. It gets often overshadowed by the famous Lake Bled which stands between the capital and Lake Bohinj. But that place offers you much more than just a scenic lake. Lake Bohinj area is the perfect spot when backpacking in Slovenia as it offers so many outdoor activities like hiking, paddling on the lake, and scuba diving. The nature is just stunning and from the spot, you can explore the amazing Julian Alps.
The most notable places around Lake Bohinj are the cool lake itself, the most popular waterfall in Slovenia called Savica, ride up to the valley with Vogel cable car, and the hike to the beautiful Seven Lakes Valley.
It’s an ideal day trip option from Ljubljana for outdoor enthusiasts or for those who enjoy the scenery of nature. From there you will find a large valley full of activities, restaurants, a beautiful mountain village, and crystal-clear Lake Bohinj. It’s also a starting point to countless hiking trails to the Julian Alps and from there you can take a trekking trail to the highest Triglav mountain.
As it's a popular tourist destination there will be some public transportation between the capital. But it’s more recommended to rent a car as it's a more flexible solution. The public transportation prices are also a bit too expensive as it’s in such a remote destination.
Lake Bled
by Marjut of The Smooth Escape travel blog
Lake Bled is a picturesque blue-green lake nestled in the foothills of the Julian Alps. Because of its stunning natural surroundings and a fairytale-like ambiance, Lake Bled is often considered one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia.
Located just 55 kilometres northwest of Ljubljana, the lake is an excellent destination for a day trip. If you decide to rent a car, it’s an easy 45-minute drive from Ljubljana. Be aware though that in the summer season the lake gets pretty busy so you should aim to be there early to avoid traffic jams. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a train from Ljubljana. The journey takes around 90 minutes.
One of the best things to do at Lake Bled is to walk or bike along the scenic 6-kilometre trail around the lake. You can admire the beautiful scenery from different viewpoints, relax in one of the lakeside cafes or go for a swim in the crystal clear water. In the middle of the lake, there’s a picture-perfect little island with a church, which you can visit by renting a rowboat or a SUP. Make sure to also visit the medieval Bled Castle perched on a cliff overlooking the lake.
During your day trip to Lake Bled, you should also taste the famous Bled Cream Cake, which you can find in nearly every cafe. It’s a local specialty dessert combining custard, whipped cream and puff pastry.
Psst: BRB has a dedicated guide for this gorgeous little town. You can find it here
Triglav National Park
by Heather of Conversant Traveller
Set in the stunning Julian Alps in northern Slovenia, Triglav National Park is just 60 miles from Ljubljana. The best way to visit is by car, giving flexibility and independence to explore, but there are several buses too if you prefer to use public transport. It takes between 1-2 hours to reach the park, depending on transport mode and end destination.
The lakes, mountains, and valleys of Triglav are stunning, and there are lots of hiking trails that take you into the heart of nature. If you’re travelling by car, driving up the Vrsic Pass makes for an epic road trip, with panoramic views at the corner of every hairpin bend. Don’t miss the pretty wooden church halfway up, which was built by Russian prisoners of war in 1917.
Adrenaline junkies will love kayaking down the emerald Soca River, which runs through the middle of Triglav National Park. There are several waterfalls worth visiting too, including Slap Boka and Slap Savica. Lower down in the valleys you’ll find the shimmering lakes of Bohinj and Triglav, where boating, paddle boarding, and hiking offer immersive experiences. You can even go swimming during the summer, which is perfect after a waterside picnic lunch!
On your return journey to Ljubljana, catch the Bohinjska Road Train from Podbrdo which takes you on an adventure right through the mountain, cutting down the driving distance back to the city.
Psst: This was one of your stops on our Slovenia road trip. This is definitely a must-do. You can read more about it here
Kransjka Gora
by Fernanda from Mauka Travels
Kransjka Gora is located in the northeast of Slovenia and is a city known for outdoor activities in the summer and during the winter. Since Kranjska Gora is almost at the edge of the Triglav National Park, the incredible landscapes around this area are what make it such an incredible Slovenian destination.
The easiest way to get to Kranjska Gora is by car – the drive will take you approximately 1h outside of rush hour. Another alternative is to use the public transport or book a day tour. If you choose the first option, you can get one of the daily bus lines connecting Ljubljana and Kranjska Gora. There are buses leaving almost every hour and the trip will take approximately 2h.
One of the best things to do in Kranjska Gora is to explore the areas around the Julian Alps. First, head to Lake Jasna, a beautiful alpine lake located only a few minutes away. The lake is fairly small but it is great for families or a short visit.
Next, go to Zelenci Nature Reserve, where the source of the longest river in Slovenia is located. Zelenci is a very special place, it feels like an oasis with the clear blue water contrasting with the majestic Alps in the background. Zelenci can be visited all year round because the spring water from the reserve never freezes.
If you are an active person, you can also go hiking around Kranjska Gora to explore the region. Martuljek and Pericnik are two incredible waterfalls located close by that are worth a visit. If you prefer cycling, there is also an incredibly scenic cycling path that goes from Kranjska Gora to the Italian border.
During the winter, Kranjska Gora is known as the largest ski region in Slovenia. Planica, the famous ski jumping ramp, is located very close to Kranjska Gora and is another location worth visiting.
Predjama Castle
by Jonny of Faraway Lands
Predjama Castle makes for a great day trip from Ljubljana and is also one of the best castles in Europe to visit. It's epically built at the start of a cave complex on a high cliff face and is a feat of medieval engineering. It's actually the largest cave castle in the world.
If you have any interest in castles or history then this is a must-visit site in Slovenia and an excellent day trip from Ljubljana. The castle was built in the 15th century and you can explore most of the rooms inside. There is also a huge cave behind the castle to look at and some cave passages underneath the castle that stretch some 14km, although obviously, you can't see all of that.
The best way to reach the Predjama Castle from Ljubljana is if you have your own car as you can drive right up to the castle area and it only takes around 45 minutes to drive. Taking the train is the best option if you don't have your own car and you take it to the town of Postojna which takes around 2 hours and from the station there it is then around a 20-30 minute walk to the castle.
Tip: not far from the castle is the Postojna Caves which make a great addition to the day trip.
Postojna Cave
by Nicole of Go Far Grow Close
One of the most incredible day trips that you can take from Ljubljana is to visit Postojna Cave. It is located only 45 minutes by car from Ljubljana.
Postojna Cave was uncovered hundreds of years ago but only opened to the public around 200 years ago. There are around 24 km of underground pathways that take you past towering mountains, rivers and subterranean halls carved out over millions of years from minuscule droplets of water.
When you first arrive, you hop on a train that takes you on a 3.7 km journey deep into the caves. Along the way, you pass beautifully lit-up stalagmites and stalactites.
As you can imagine, it is cold in the caves, even in the summer. It is even colder on the train. Accordingly, make sure that you dress very very warmly. If it is in the middle of summer, and you didn’t bring anything that warm, you can also rent winter outdoor clothing at the Caves.
After the train ride, you take a one-hour walking tour along the pathways with a guide. You learn about the history of the caves and the incredible geological formations that you are seeing. The walk is fairly easy and suitable for children. However, you should wear closed-toe walking shoes with a good tread as it can be slippery.
Vintgar Gorge
by Cosette of KarsTravels
The Vintgar Gorge is in Northern Slovenia, 65 kilometres from Ljubljana on toll roads. You can reach the gorge by car, there’s a parking lot near the entrance. The gorge itself can only be reached on foot. With public transport, you have to get out at the bus stop in Spodnje Gorje. In the Summer months, there’s also a shuttle bus from Lake Bled to the gorge.
In an hour you’ll reach the gorge from Ljubljana. The gorge is simply beautiful. The gorge is 1.6 kilometres long and shaped by the Radovna River. At the end is the Slap Šum waterfall, with 16 meters high the largest fall in Slovenia. The walls of the gorge are some 50 to 100 meters high. The beginning of the gorge is small and the wooden path on the side of the gorge is breathtaking.
Walk the path through the gorge enjoying the clear turquoise water and the high cliffs. At the end, you can swim at the waterfall. Walk the same way back or use the entrance near the waterfall.
You can walk the path two ways, you can either start at Slap Šum or at the village of Podhom. The last is the best way to enter. You’ll first walk through the smallest part of the gorge, also considered the most beautiful part and end at the waterfall. The waterfall is at its largest in Springtime. Especially in the Summer visit early in the day or late in the afternoon, to beat the crowds. The Vintgar Gorge is a highlight on a 6-week European road trip.
Piran
by Martine of Places of Juma
Piran in Slovenia is a beautiful coastal town on the Adriatic Sea and a real insider tip for a day trip from Ljubljana. The excursion destination is located about 1:30 hours from the Slovenian capital and can best be reached by car, bus or also by guided tour.
The Slovenian port city is famous for its historical center and impressive Venetian architecture, which can be admired on almost every corner. The Mediterranean flair is also unbeatable, and the restaurants invite you to enjoy it.
Piran's location is also unique! The small town is located on a peninsula directly on the coast and conjures up a picture-perfect ambience with its ancient stone houses. Around the old town and in the surrounding area there are numerous beautiful beaches, which are just perfect to swim in a wonderful environment. During a city tour, you can visit numerous interesting attractions and romantic places that invite you to linger. You can enjoy a fantastic view from the old ring wall, which can be visited for a small fee.
One of the main highlights, which should not be missed, is the picturesque waterfront promenade, where cute restaurants are lined up next to each other. With a fantastic view of the sea, you can enjoy incredible scenery here. Right next to it is Tartini Square, the gorgeous main square where a flea market also takes place once a month.
However, the most important sight of Piran is the Church of St. George. It is located at the top of the town and can hardly be overlooked! It towers over the city and offers an incredible view of the old town and the sea.
Psst: If you like the seaside for a couple of days, you can read my Art Tartini hotel review here
Tolmin Gorge
by Jan of JanAdventures
If you are looking for a cool place to visit from Ljubljana, include a day trip to the fascinating Tolmin Gorge. The gorge is located in the southern part of the Triglav National Park. The easiest way to reach the area from Ljubljana is by car. The journey will take you just under two hours. You can also reach the area by train and the travel time varies between two and five hours depending on the time schedule.
The Tolmin Gorge (also called Tolminska Korita) was formed by the confluence of the Tolminka and Zadlascica rivers. The gorge is 1 kilometre (.6 miles) long, between 5-10 meters (16-32 feet) wide, and up to 60 meters (197 feet) deep.
Parking is available and the adult price to enter the gorge is 6-10 Euros depending on the season.
The amazing views of the Bear’s Head and the Devil’s Bridge make this trip worth the journey. The huge triangular stone resembles a bear’s head and is wedged between two cliffs. As you walk through dark tunnels and reach the top of the gorge, you will cross over the Devil’s Bridge to get a wide view of the flowing river below. You can walk the length of the gorge and see the different viewpoints in one hour and a half. The walk is not difficult but caution should be used for small children as the path can be slippery.
If you are taking a day trip here from Ljubljana, it would be worthwhile to combine the visit to Tolmin Gorge with a trip to see the Kozjak Waterfall (a 25-minute drive from the gorge).
Skofja Loka
by Sarah of Life Part 2 and Beyond
Just 23 kilometres from Ljubliana and easily reached by car, bus or train, the gorgeous medieval city of Skofja Loka is well worth a visit.
Considered to be the best-preserved medieval city in Slovenia, the best way to explore the town and its cobble-stoned streets is on foot. Consider doing a walking tour while you’re there, as it’s a great way to learn more about this historic town.
Visit the old stone bridge. Built in the 14th century, this is one of the oldest bridges in Central Europe. Cross the bridge to visit the Capuchin Monastery and its incredible library with more than 30000 books that date back to 1709.
Be sure to visit Loka Castle, which overlooks the town. Attached to the castle is an interesting museum. There’s also a reconstruction of a 16th-century peasant house on the castle grounds, which is fun to explore.
If you fancy a lovely countryside walk, it’s only five kilometres -consider doing the Three Castle Path, which starts at Loka Castle and takes you by the ruins of the Krancelj Tower and the Old Castle. Maps for the walk are available at the museum.
Feeling hungry after all that exploring, head to the Granary for a bite to eat. Built of stone, the Granary was once part of Skofja Loka’s defensive walls and one of the best-preserved medieval buildings in the town. The food is good too.
Vršič Pass
by Kat of Wandering Bird
If you want an unforgettable day trip from Ljubljana and you have your own vehicle, driving the Vršič Pass is at the top of your list.
The Vršič Pass is a road that runs through the Julian Alps mountains and has the distinction of being one of the highest roads in Slovenia.
It climbs to around 1600m above sea level and is drivable for almost all vehicles. Tour buses go up and down daily. However, there are fifty tight hairpin bends to navigate (half up, half going down), and there are some very steep drops over the side, so it’s not the road for nervous drivers!
From Ljubljana to the start of the pass at Kranjska Gora is about an hour drive and then it will take about two hours to drive up and down the Vršič Pass, depending on how often you stop to take photos. The road is called Route 206.
There’s plenty to do along the way if you want to take longer. You can stop at the beautiful Lake Jasna, where there is a cafe and you can swim in the lake on a warm day. There are plenty of hikes all over the mountain and you can also see the church built by the men who were forced to build the road.
TOP TIP: Drive this road as early in the day as possible. Just after sunrise is perfect. You’ll have far fewer other vehicles to worry about and you’ll be able to get parking at the top to enjoy the breathtaking views.
Heart Shaped Road in Špičnik
by Lori of Travlinmad
Just an hour and a half from Ljubljana (146 km), in the rolling hills of Spicnik is a quaint rural spot and possibly one of the most Instagrammable places in northern Slovenia — the Heart-Shaped Road.
Nestled amongst lush vineyards, the road is literally laid out in the shape of a heart, making it a destination for selfie-loving travellers to both northern Slovenia and the southern Austrian region of Südsteiermark.
You see, while the road may be located in Slovenia, the only vantage point from which to see it clearly is just a few meters away on a hillside in Austria.
Visitors who find the vantage point will also find themselves in the middle of a vineyard at the small farm of Dreisiebner.
This small, unassuming place seems to care little about the tourists who travel just to glimpse this romantic road, probably because drinking a glass of their wine is usually involved.
You can buy a bottle or just a glass, and walk among the vineyards and flowering trees. The view is an epic one and makes for beautiful pics. So take the ride and enjoy some local wine, then get out your phone and snap some pics of the prettiest little road in the world!
Skocjan Caves
by Corinne Vail of Reflections Enroute
Only about an hour’s drive from Ljubljana is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Skocjan Caves. This amazing labyrinth of underground caves is well worth the trip from the capital city.
Skocjan Caves are a very popular activity, so I would recommend getting there as close to opening as possible. There are tours offered on the hour from 10:00 until 3:00, and it’s possible to buy your tickets online before you go. At the cave entrance, after the beginning of the hike, the docents will split you into language groups. There is usually an English option.
This is not a tour for those who have trouble walking or don’t like stairs. Even though the distance is between three and five kilometres, the walking is strenuous. However, the views, the history, the science, make it all worthwhile. Some of the most amazing views are the ones overlooking a gigantic cavern. The people on the bottom look so small and insignificant.
Some things to consider when going are: wear sturdy shoes, don’t bring a stroller and remember the temperature is chilly all year round, so perhaps bring a fleece or sweater.
The Skocjan Caves really live up to their reputation. If you are visiting Slovenia, don’t miss them.
Koper
Recommended by Martine of Places of Juma
The coastal town of Koper in Slovenia is a hidden gem for a day trip from Ljubljana. Located approximately 106 kilometers southwest of Ljubljana, it can be easily reached in 1-2 hours by rental car or public bus.
Koper stands out as a true hidden jewel along the Slovenian coast. Its enchanting Old Town boasts well-preserved Venetian architecture. As you stroll through narrow, winding alleys, you'll be amazed by a unique blend of an industrially influenced port city and a rich historical heritage. A must-see is the magnificent Praetorian Palace and the impressive Cathedral, both situated on the famous Tito Square. There, you'll also find the Loggia with its charming café, recognized as one of the oldest in Slovenia.
History enthusiasts should explore the Regional Museum Koper during their excursion, as it provides deeper insights into the cultural heritage of the region around Koper. Another highlight is the seaside promenade, offering the opportunity to enjoy the Adriatic breeze and leisurely stroll along beautiful beaches on sunny days.
For a smooth day trip, it's advisable to check the weather beforehand, dress accordingly, and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets. Those with a rental car can explore further along the coast, visiting renowned places like the city of Piran.
Ptuj
by Paul from PaulMarina Travel
Ptuj is situated to the east of the country, 85 miles (136 kilometers) away from Ljubljana. You can get there within 1 1/2 hours via the A1 highway by road or take public transport, which is a 2-hour trip.
Known as a former Roman city and an important medieval stronghold, Ptuj is a fantastic place to visit if you would like to know more about the history and culture of the region. The castle on the hill offers not only a wonderful panoramic view of the red-roofed town, but you can also stop by the permanent exhibition which tells the tale of this once grand city.
Explore Ptuj on a walk along the cobbled roads, which are lined by colorful pastel houses, and also head over to the two monasteries and their manicured gardens. Don't forget to book a tour of one of the oldest wineries in the country. The owner will introduce you to excellent Slovenian wine and the local grape varieties.
I also highly recommend spending time in the Thermal Park Spa, where the natural thermal waters will help you relax your body and mind. If you are in the region during carnival, you will witness the traditional furry carnival characters, which are known as Kurrent or come to see the local market Oswald fair, which is held yearly on the 5th of August.
Soca Valley
Contributed by Adri of Traveltipzone
If you're looking for a day trip from Ljubljana, the Soca Valley can be an excellent choice.
The Soca River Valley is one of Slovenia's most beautiful and popular destinations, located near the country's western border. It's about a 2-hour drive and approximately 130 km from Ljubljana, and although the route isn't easy, the journey itself offers stunning sights.
If you're coming from Ljubljana, you can reach the valley via the challenging but picturesque Vrsic Pass, or take an easier route from the Italian side, coming from Tarvisio. For public transport, guided tours are recommended, as reaching the Soca Valley by train or bus can be complicated.
When it comes to the Soca Valley, it's challenging to highlight just a few main attractions. Among the most beautiful spots are the Great Soca Gorge, the Virje Waterfall near Bovec, which is a true hidden gem, and the Kozjak Waterfall near the town of Kobarid.
The Soca Valley offers plenty of active leisure opportunities. You can hike, go rafting, kayaking, canyoning, and even paragliding. It's a true paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike. Moreover, the Soca Valley is full of historical landmarks, as important battles of World War I took place here. During your hike, you may encounter old fortresses like the Kluže Fortress and impressive memorials like the Javorca Memorial Church.
If you're unsure where to go for a day trip from Ljubljana, consider visiting the stunning Soca Valley. For many, it's a favorite spot for relaxation, hiking, photography, and other outdoor activities. So, if you're in Ljubljana, don't miss out, it's almost guaranteed to offer unforgettable experiences.
Logar Valley
By Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler
The Logar Valley is a magical glacial valley located at the foot of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, a mere 63 km north of Ljubljana. By car it is a 1 hour 20 minute drive from the capital city to the start of the valley in Solčava.
Besides sublime scenery, the outdoor adventures of the Logar Valley beckon many visitors. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy the hiking trails or cycle though the valley on mostly flat roads. An easy 7 km hiking trail winds through the valley. Signs along the trail tell stories of the history and culture of the valley. Mountain trails also leave from the valley trailheads to take hikers up into magnificent alpine scenery.
A hike to Slap Rinka is a highlight for visitors to Logar Valley. This 20 minutes hike takes you to the second highest free falling waterfall in Slovenia.
The Logar Valley is a National Landscape Park with a nominal per car entry fee that supports the sustainability of the area. The historic farms have been preserved and provide a pastural charm to the scenery. The tourist farms provide accommodations and sell homemade products such as cheese, meat and milk products, wool, honey, tea, jam, candies, and mushrooms.
For breathtaking views of the Logar Valley from above, Drive or cycle on the Solčava Panoramic Route. This 39 km scenic route has themed stops along the way to view the mountains and the high-altitude subsistence farms.
Bovec
by Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast
Bovec is a delightful day trip from Ljubljana, as it’s a cute town just barely outside of Triglav National Park, with a lot of incredible nature and adventure activities to do in and around the town. Bovec is 130 km from Ljubljana, and it takes about two hours to drive between the cities. Public transportation takes quite a bit longer, so I’d recommend getting here with your own car.
There are several gorgeous waterfalls near the city, including the Slap Boka waterfall (the tallest in Slovenia), the Slap Globoski waterfall, and the Slap Virje waterfall (one of my favorites!).
The incredibly gorgeous Soca River passes right by Bovec, and many people come to the town to participate in adventure activities on the river. Indeed, going white water rafting on the Soca River is one of the funniest things to do in the area! The surrounding mountains and forests are a beautiful backdrop to the bright turquoise-green river.
Bovec also has a lovely, thriving city center, with pedestrian-friendly streets and many cafes and restaurants to sit and enjoy on a warm evening. Finally, just 10 minutes from town is the Great Soca Gorge, a gorgeous area where the river turns into a slot canyon, with tall, narrow riverbanks and incredible views.
Trieste, Italy
by Ingrid from Ingrid Zen Moments
Less than 90 kilometers away from Ljubljana, Trieste is the perfect destination for a day trip by the sea. Easily reached by car in roughly one hour, or by train in around 2 hours, it is easy to understand why this Italian town with Austrian influences should be on your list.
Set in Northern Italy incredibly close to the border, Trieste is the place to go to for some sea, sun, and delicious food! Let's not forget that the famous coffee brand Illy comes from this city, thus expect tens of types of great coffee options.
Climb the hill and visit the San Giusto Castle dating from the 1600s and learn about the city's vast history, hop on the bus, and head to Barcola where you shouldn't skip a visit to the Miramare castle and a stroll through its beautiful gardens. Spend some time at the beach, take the boat to Muggia and stroll through the streets of this small yet charming seaside town, have a coffee in Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, and bring a bottle of wine for sunsets on Molo Audace.
Museum-lovers will have plenty of options to choose from: Museo Civico Revoltella home of 6 floors of modern art, Museum Riseria di San Sabba will take you back to World War II with its exhibitions, or the Aquarium in Trieste is the perfect destination when travelling with kids.
Take a stroll to the Canale Grande, hop on the funicular that will take you to Opicina, or go outside of town and admire the region's natural beauty.
Zagreb, Croatia
by Maya & Sari from Chasing Lenscapes
Croatia’s capital is located only 140 km away. away from Ljubljana and it will only take you 2 hours to reach it by train, so why not hop on a train and explore a totally different country for the day? Don’t forget to bring your passport with you since Croatia is not part of Europe’s Schengen Zone.
Zagreb is such a wonderful place to explore on a day trip from Ljubljana. It offers beautiful architecture, famous historic monuments, unique coffee culture and lots of green parks. The old part of Zagreb is actually pretty small, and the main highlights can easily be covered in just one day. The best way to explore it is to take a self-guided walking tour of Zagreb. You can start by exploring Zagreb’s upper town where many of Zagreb’s historic monuments are located and then make your way to the lower town where you’ll find leafy parks, beautiful architecture and a totally different vibe.
Some of the things you must do in Zagreb?
See Zagreb Cathedral with its twin towers and golden statues. Have a bite at Dolac Market. Go through the Stone Gate to reach the old Gradec area where you’ll find some of Zagreb’s most famous monuments including Lotrščak Tower and St. Mark’s Church with its colourful roof tiles. There are also plenty of beautiful viewpoints around.
After exploring Zagreb’s upper town, it’s time to make your way to the lower town of Zagreb which has a totally different atmosphere. Walk around Zagreb’s Green Horseshoe - a series of leafy green parks where you can walk around amongst the fountains and admire some of Zagreb’s most beautiful buildings.
Two dishes you must try on your day trip are Burek, a traditional pastry filled with either meat or cheese and Štrukli which resembles blintzes and can be cooked or baked, sweet or savoury and is extremely delicious!
Rovinj, Croatia
by Michela from She Goes the Distance
Dreaming of a bit of beach while exploring the Slovenian capital? Then plan a day trip to Rovinj, Croatia.
This laidback seaside town on the Istrian peninsula is just over two hours away from Ljubljana by car, making it a perfect day trip if you are looking to spend some time on the Adriatic.
Rovinj is the best town to visit in Istria for its charming old town, relaxed vacation vibe and a mix of natural sandy beaches and rocky coastline.
One of the best things to do in Rovinj is to visit its beaches. There are many to choose from to satisfy any kind of traveller, from the natural oasis Cuvi Beach along a forested park to family-friendly Lone Bay with a view of Rovinj Old Town. If you prefer beach clubs to beach chairs, then enjoy the party vibes of Mulini Beach Bar.
Rovinj’s winding cobblestone streets all lead up a hill to the Church of St. Euphemia, which faces vast views of the Adriatic. And if you really want a unique experience to end your day, dine at Tipico Green Garden, a farmhouse restaurant with tables scattered among the rows of grapevines and horses roaming the grounds.
Rovinj is your romantic beach adventure from Ljubljana!
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