2 Weeks in Slovenia Itinerary

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It all started when I got into watching Tour de France during the pandemic and there’s not much travelling happening. This is where I came across the professional cyclists Primoz Roglic and Tadej Pogacar who are from Slovenia.

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After watching them for three years across different cycling races, I know I have to add their home country to the places I must visit when the world opens again. And this finally happened and I went for 2 weeks in Slovenia.

Slovenia might be small on the map, but it’s packed with some of the most breathtaking landscapes imaginable. Think majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and endless green forests. Not to mention lovely and friendly locals.

It’s the perfect spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or just soaking up the serene beauty, Slovenia offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural riches.

Imagine exploring ancient castles, wandering through historic towns, and tasting local delicacies. A vacation in Slovenia isn’t just a break; it’s an immersion into a world where every corner tells a story.

ALSO READ: 2 weeks in Southern Europe itineraries, 2 weeks in Europe, and 2 weeks in Eastern Europe itineraries

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BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR SLOVENIA

4 images - top left is the Predjama Castle in the cave in Postojna. top right is the Ljubljana Castle on top of a hill. Bottom right are the blue lakes and snowcapped mountains of Triglav Lakes Valley. Bottom left is the church in the middle of Lake Bled - 2 Weeks in Slovenia Itinerary

Slovenia receives about 5,000 tourists every year (prior to COVID-19), which is nothing compared to the 80 million visitors in France. This means that there is less information available online to plan a trip to Slovenia.

If you’re undecided or currently planning when to go and the cost of a trip to Slovenia, here are some tips and answers for you:

When is the best time to travel to Slovenia

The best time to visit is May to September when warm temperatures allow for exploration of its lush landscapes and historic cities.

Peak season is July and August, perfect for hiking and lake visits, yet crowded. Rain is most frequent in spring and late autumn, adding a mystical beauty to its forests.

Winter, from December to March, transforms Slovenia into a snow paradise, ideal for skiing in the Julian Alps.

Shoulder seasons, April to June and September to October present a sweet spot with fewer tourists, pleasant weather, and the chance to witness Slovenia’s natural beauty in peace, from blooming valleys to the vibrant colours of autumn.

Are 2 weeks enough for Slovenia

14 days is plenty of time to explore Slovenia. Since it’s a small country by land size, you can easily visit 4-5 cities, compared to bigger countries where 3-4 cities are more suitable. With great transportation planning, you can really maximise your time. But, you can also travel slower if you prefer that.

How to get around

Getting around Slovenia is both convenient and scenic. The most convenient way to explore its diverse landscapes is by car, offering flexibility to visit remote areas and natural attractions.

For affordability, public transport, including buses and trains, connects major cities and tourist spots efficiently, though less frequently to off-the-beaten-path locations.

Slovenia also supports sustainable travel with an extensive network of cycling routes. Ride-hailing apps, such as Bolt, provide a modern alternative in urban areas, blending convenience with competitive pricing.

You won’t really need to fly domestically since top to bottom takes less than 2 hours on a car, and east to west is about 3 hours. This country can easily be done by car.

Language and currency

The main language in Slovenia is Slovene. Tourists can generally get around with English, especially in major cities, tourist areas, and among the younger population. English is widely taught in schools, making communication in tourist hotspots, hotels, restaurants, and public transport quite accessible.

However, learning a few basic Slovene phrases is appreciated and enhances the travel experience, showcasing respect for the local culture and openness to Slovenia’s rich linguistic heritage.

The main currency in Slovenia is the Euro (EUR). While it’s the preferred and most widely accepted form of payment, some tourist areas might accept other major currencies like USD or GBP, but it’s less common and not guaranteed.

Bank cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in cities, tourist spots, and by most service providers, making them a convenient payment method.

However, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller establishments, local markets, or in rural areas where card payments might not be as readily accepted. Generally, a mix of card and cash is recommended for convenience and preparedness.

Visa

Slovenia is part of the EU and also subscribes to the Schengen Area membership, which means that they have the same visa policy as other members of the Schengen Area.

If your passport is from most countries in America, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Israel, the UAE, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, you can enter and travel around Slovenia or the Schengen Area for 90 days out of 180 days.

For EU passport holders, you have freedom of movement. While other nationalities not mentioned here must apply for a Schengen tourist visa in advance to be allowed to enter and travel in Slovenia.

Cost of 2 weeks in Slovenia

A vacation in Slovenia can cater to various budgets, depending on the choice of accommodation, dining, and activities.

  • Affordable: For budget travellers, two weeks could cost around €700-€1,000 per person, including hostel stays, public transport, and self-catered meals or inexpensive restaurants.
  • Mid-range: A comfortable mid-range trip might range from €1,500 to €2,500 per person, featuring 3-star hotels, dining in moderate restaurants, renting a car for part of the trip, and engaging in paid activities like guided tours.
  • Luxury: For a luxury experience, expect to spend €3,000 to €5,000+ per person. This includes staying in 4-star or 5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours, and exclusive experiences.

Travel arrangement tips

HOTELS
VISA
CAR RENT
TOURS
FLIGHTS
BUS (EU/US/CA)
TRAINS (EUROPE)
TRAIN/BUS (ASIA)
BOOKED TOURS
TRAVEL INSURANCE
TOURS (ASIA)
HOSTELS
AIRPORT PICK UP
ESIM
BIKE RENTAL

MAP OF TOP SITES AND ACTIVITIES IN SLOVENIA

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN SLOVENIA ITINERARY

Heading to Slovenia for two weeks? You’re in for a treat! Picture this: Hiking through lush forests and climbing mountains that touch the sky. Imagine wandering through medieval castles, each stone telling a story of knights and legends.

Slovenia is a history book that comes to life, where every corner reveals a bit of traditional Europe. Whether you’re trekking the great outdoors or diving deep into the past, your vacation will be a mix of adventure, discovery, and stepping back in time.

Get ready to explore a land where history and nature collide most beautifully. We have prepared two travel itineraries for spending 14 days in Slovenia.

Itinerary #1: First-timer (Ljubljana, Bled, Postojna, Koper)

Imagine diving into a two-week adventure in Slovenia, a hidden gem in Europe. Your journey kicks off in Ljubljana, a city buzzing with cool vibes and street artists. Then, it’s off to Lake Bled, where a castle on an island looks like it’s from a fairy tale.

Feel like a mountaineer as you conquer Triglav, Slovenia’s tallest peak, offering views you’ll never forget. Explore the underground world of Postojna Cave, filled with magical stalactites. Wrap up your adventure in Koper, where the sea meets history.

This travel itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors of Slovenia, whether you’re looking into exploring its cities, hiking trails, Medieval castles, and histories.

2 images - on the left is the top view of the church in the middle of Lake Bled. On the right is the Ljubljana castle on top of a hill surrounded by the city houses.

Ljubljana for 4 days

Ljubljana is like a living fairy tale city, perfect for your first adventure into Slovenia. Imagine walking along the Ljubljanica River, with cool cafes on one side and street performers on the other.

The city is super green, filled with parks where you can chill or bike around. Don’t miss the castle on the hill – you can hike up or take a funicular for epic city views. Plus, it’s easy to explore, with lots of spots to discover on foot.

Ljubljana is cosy, vibrant, and full of surprises, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the heart of Slovenia. It’s a perfect place to start your 14 days in Slovenia, this city gives you access to all major attractions in the country.

Bled and Triglav for 4 days

Bled is like stepping into a postcard; it’s that beautiful. There’s a stunning lake with an island right in the middle, and you can row out to it. The castle perched high above the lake looks like it’s guarding ancient secrets.

Then, there’s Triglav – the ultimate adventure. It’s not just a mountain; it’s Slovenia’s pride, the highest peak in the country and could be done as a day trip from Bled if you’re looking for an easy hike.

Hiking up Triglav is like earning your badge of honour; the views from the top make every step worth it.

To get to Bled from Ljubljana, you have a few options. The fastest is by car, the drive is only 40 minutes covering 54 km (33.5 mi). You can also take a bus, which is the most affordable choice and takes an hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The train is also an option for a more scenic route, which is about 45 minutes to an hour. Some people would take a taxi, and it should cost €45-€55.

Postojna for 3 days

Postojna is like exploring another planet but right here on Earth. Imagine hopping on a train that takes you deep underground into a cave filled with jaw-dropping stalactites and stalagmites, some looking like giant ice cream cones or wizard’s hats.

It’s a whole hidden world down there, complete with its own creatures like the olm, a cool, blind salamander called the “human fish.” Walking through Postojna Cave feels like a real-life adventure movie, where every corner holds a new, natural wonder.

It’s a place where nature’s artistry is on full display, making it a must-visit spot.

If you rent a car, you can drive from Bled to Postojna and it would take an hour, about 100 km (62 mi). The bus is slower but more budget-friendly, which takes 3 hours and 30 minutes and the train is 2 hours and 45 minutes and requires a change or connection in Ljubljana.

Koper for 3 days

Slovenia might not be your ideal Southern Europe beach destination, but it still has a small coastal region in its Southwestern area. The most popular town there is Koper.

This is an amazing place to end your trip since you can enjoy the sun and saltwater, and still have great access to Ljubljana if your flight is leaving from there.

On the other hand, there’s a ferry from Piran that will take you straight to Venice (Italy) and it’s only a 24-minute drive/taxi from Koper or less than an hour by bus (19.5 km/12 mi)

From Postojna, you can reach Koper quickly by driving, which is a 45-minute trip, 57.5 km (36 mi). The train is an option, but only until Divaca, then you can take the bus for the rest of the way. You can also just take the bus, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

2 images - on the left is the Predjama Castle in the caves of Postojna. On the right is the beautiful blue lakes of Triglav Lakes Valley surrounded by snowcapped mountains

Itinerary #2: Cities and Hiking (Ljubljana, Bled, Triglav, Celje, Gradac)

If you love classic European cities with their cobbled stones and medieval castles, but at the same time enjoy hiking – this 2 weeks in Slovenia itinerary might be for you. This plan features 5 cities all offering different experiences.

You’d see Bled and Triglav here as separate destinations, but if you want, you can use Bled as your base, and plan a hiking day trip to an overnight hike to Triglav to save you time.

While Celje features historical landmarks, and Gradac is the place to go if you want to be around nature and explore the scenic river of Lahinja.

Ljubljana for 3 days

Ljubljana the capital of Slovenia is undoubtedly a place for life where amazing museums, trendy cafes, and historical landmarks such as the Ljubljana Castle can be found. At the same time, there are some mini hiking trails that you can explore.

Plan a day trip and hike Polhograjska Grmada, a well-marked trail which leads to a panoramic observation deck. Not too far from downtown, you can visit the Golovec area which has various trails including bike paths and MTB trails.

This is an awesome place to start your trip since from Ljubljana you can get to many cities easily and directly.

Bled for 4 days

Some people would say you can simply take a day trip to Bled from Ljubljana – which is correct since it’s less than an hour’s drive if you have a vehicle. However, that’s only true if you just want to see 2-3 sites.

If you prefer to explore deeper than that and understand why Bled is a must-visit, you should surely spend at least 2-3 nights here. Don’t worry, there are plenty of things to do including the beautiful Lake Bled, hiking the Soteska Vintgar, and the view of the Alps if you plan to ride the glide planes.

You can reach Bled in many ways, driving a vehicle being the fastest and most convenient since it’s less than an hour’s drive (54 km/33.5 mi). Of course, there’s the bus, a cheaper option, but it can be slower. The train is also a great choice, a bit faster than the bus but offers great views along the way.

Triglav for 3 days

Triglav is the ideal destination for hikers visiting Slovenia. It’s not too far from Bled, so you can also simply plan a day trip here or even one night. But if you want to try various trails, 2-3 nights would be a great amount of time.

The nearest main town in Triglav is Lake Bohinj, about 17 km (10.5 mi) from the mountain. You can plan to stay here during your trip, or simply use Bled as your base.

2 images - on the left is the Predjama Castle in the caves of Postojna. On the right is the beautiful blue lakes of Triglav Lakes Valley surrounded by snowcapped mountains

Celje for 3 days

For history lovers, Celje features the medieval castle of Celje which offers exhibits and a wonderful view since it sits on top of a hill overviewing the city and the valleys around it.

Celje is not a super busy city, making it a great place if you want to take a little break from the usual tourist trails while enjoying a true Slovenian experience at the same time. Head downtown and find some cute cafes, unique and interactive museums, and some bars that are popular among the locals.

Celje is about 175 km (109 mi) east of Triglav. The drive is around 1 hour and 45 minutes, there’s a bus and it takes 5 hours and 30 minutes.

Lahinja/Kupa River for 2 days

Finally, head to your final location – Lahinja or the Kupa River. This is the ultimate destination for relaxing and doing some more outdoor activities. It’s right at the border of Slovenia and Croatia.

This is the place where you can really put up your feet, go camping, rent a van to sleep on and do some old-style vacation. There is no one specific town you could stay at since most accommodations are scattered between Gradac, Primostek, and Metlika.

It’s a 2-hour drive south of Celje, around 112 km (69.5 mi). Taking a bus could be a bit challenging since you have to take the bus from Celje to Ljubljana, and then transfer to another bus to Gradac.

This is the part where renting a car might be better and then you can plan a little road trip as part of your 2 weeks in Slovenia.

This also means that if you’re flying out of Slovenia, you have a direct line to Ljubljana from here whether you’re driving for 1 hour and 30 minutes or taking the 4-hour bus.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN SLOVENIA (per city)

Ljubljana

  • Learn about the history by joining a walking tour around the city center of Ljubljana
  • Ljubljana Castle
  • Explore the Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle – check out this tour or this one
  • Tivoli Park
  • Day trip to Triglav National Park via this tour
  • Dragon Bridge
  • Book an all-day tour to Lake Bled and Bohinj Valley
  • Saint Nicholas’s Cathedral
  • Try Slovenian cuisine and wine through a food tour
  • House of illusions
  • Be one with nature on a trip to Soča Valley and Kranjska Gora – check what’s included
  • Central Market
  • Explore the Škocjan UNESCO caves via a full-day tour
  • Kongresni Trg
  • Enjoy the city’s beauty while riding a boat cruise

Bled

Postojna

  • Predjama Castle
  • Postojna Cave
  • Planina Cave
  • Weaver Cave
  • Notranjski muzej Postojna

Koper

  • Book a tour to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle
  • Praetorian Palace
  • Explore Lake Bled & Ljubljana via a day tour
  • Da Ponte Fountain
  • Enjoy a scenic tour to Piran
  • Koper Regional Museum
  • Join a hunt for truffles in Istria Forest – check out the activity
  • Plaža Žusterna

Triglav

  • Join a two-day climbing tour to the peak of Mount Triglav
  • Waterfall Pericnik
  • Soteska Vintgar
  • Planica Nordic Centre
  • Savica Waterfall
  • Mala Osojnica
  • Russian Chapel

Celje

  • Visit the Celje Castle – buy tickets here
  • Regional Museum of Celje
  • Tehnopark Celje
  • City Park
  • Pekel Cave

Lahinja/Kupa River

  • Kayaking
  • Camping
  • Hiking at Izvir Krupe

LOCAL SLOVENIA DISHES AND DRINKS TO TRY

3 images of traditional Slovenian dishes - on the left is a plate of zganci. In the middle is a potica cake. On the right is a bowl of ricet - 2 Weeks in Slovenia Itinerary

Slovenia might not be known for its cuisine, but that doesn’t mean that you must not try any during your visit. I recommend you at least try 2-3 dishes and see which one you liked the most:

  • Žganci – A traditional Slovenian dish made from buckwheat flour, water, and salt, often served with milk or yoghurt.
  • Jota – A hearty stew made with beans, potatoes, sauerkraut, smoked pork, and garlic.
  • Kranjska Klobasa – A smoked sausage known for its distinctive taste, made from pork, bacon, garlic, and salt.
  • Štruklji – Rolled dumplings that can be sweet or savoury, filled with ingredients like cottage cheese, nuts, or meats.
  • Potica – A traditional rolled dough cake, filled with a variety of fillings, such as walnuts, honey, or poppy seeds.
  • Ričet – A barley stew with beans, potatoes, carrots, and pork, seasoned with garlic and bay leaves.
  • Idrijski Žlikrofi – Dumplings from the town of Idrija, filled with potatoes, onions, and spices, often served with a meat sauce.
  • Prekmurska Gibanica – A layered pastry with poppy seeds, walnuts, apples, raisins, and cottage cheese.
  • Potica – Mentioned above, it’s also enjoyed as a dessert, especially with sweet fillings.
  • Kremna Rezina (Bled Cream Cake) – A famous Slovenian dessert, consisting of a thick layer of cream and custard sandwiched between sheets of delicate puff pastry.
  • Gibanica – Also mentioned as Prekmurska Gibanica, it’s a rich, multi-layered cake, enjoyed as a dessert.
  • Laško and Union Beer – Two of the most popular Slovenian beer brands.
  • Teranov Likér – A sweet liqueur made from Teran wine, known for its rich red colour and unique taste.
  • Cviček – A traditional Slovenian wine, light and slightly sour, made from a blend of red and white grape varieties.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SLOVENIA

Ljubljana

Bled

Postojna

Koper

Triglav (Kranjska Gora)

Celje

Lahinja/Kupa River

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN SLOVENIA

I honestly can’t believe that I’ve waited this long to visit Slovenia. It’s beautiful and such a breath of fresh air since many countries are Europe are super crowded. I love every place I visit, but Lake Bled is truly one of a kind, while Ljubljana is easily one of the cities in the world I could see myself living in.

Now, whenever someone asks me for my tips on where to go in Europe that is away from tourists, Slovenia is definitely one of the top recommendations I have.

I hope that this article about 2 weeks in Slovenia itinerary has helped you imagine a trip there and plan a vacation, and I hope that you have a great time just like I did.

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Slovenia is ideal for solo travelers, offering charming cities like Ljubljana, stunning Lake Bled, and the Julian Alps. Enjoy outdoor adventures, explore medieval castles, and experience the rich culture and warm hospitality in this beautiful country. via @twoweektraveller