Alpine lakes, limestone caves and a capital built for strolling.
Slovenia fits Alps, caves, vineyards and a sliver of Adriatic coast into a country you can cross in a few hours. Lake Bled with its island church and nearby Lake Bohinj are the classic images, Triglav National Park and the emerald Soča Valley are made for hiking and rafting, and the Postojna and Škocjan caves are enormous. Ljubljana is green, walkable and car-free at its centre.
It is easy, safe and outdoorsy, with good wine, Karst pršut, mountain huts and the Venetian-style coastal town of Piran. May to September is best for the mountains and lakes; July and August are busiest at Bled. Winter brings skiing and Christmas lights in Ljubljana.
Best time to visit Slovenia
May, June, July, September.
Places to visit in Slovenia
Ljubljana: Slovenia's small, green capital, with a riverside old town, dragon-guarded bridges and a castle on the hill.
Lake Bled: An alpine lake with a church on its tiny island and a castle on the cliff above.
Piran: A small Venetian-style town on a peninsula, the highlight of Slovenia's short Adriatic coastline.
Postojna Cave: A huge limestone cave system toured partly by underground railway, near a castle built into a cliff.
Soča Valley: An alpine valley with a vivid emerald river, known for rafting, hiking and First World War history.
Essentials
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Slovenian; English widely spoken
Plugs: Type C / F, 230 V
Driving: Right side
Time zone: UTC+1
Tipping: Not expected; round up or leave up to 10% for good service
Getting around: Buses and trains are good; a car makes the Alps and countryside easier
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking