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Slovenia in 10 Days: Complete Travel Guide & Itinerary (2026)

Why Visit Slovenia? – What Makes It Worth the Trip

Slovenia had long been on our travel bucket list. It’s a small country that combines alpine landscapes, turquoise lakes, charming towns, and access to the sea—all within a relatively compact area. It’s perfect for a road trip and an active holiday. This article is a detailed 10-day travel itinerary for Slovenia, based on our own experience.


Travel Plan – Slovenia in 10 Days

Below you’ll find our day-by-day itinerary for exploring Slovenia, including accommodation, attractions, and practical tips. The route was designed to minimize long drives and make the most of our time.

Days 1–5: Camp Velenje, Lake Velenje, Ljubljana, Celje, Laško Thermal Spa, Škofja Loka Days 6–10: Lake Bohinj, Stara Fužina, Mostnica Gorge, Vogel, Seven Lakes Valley


Summary

  1. Why did we choose Slovenia?

  2. Travel plan – Slovenia in 10 days


🏕 Part 1: The area around Lake Velenje

🏔 Part 2: Lake Bohinj and the Julian Alps


Interactive travel map of Slovenia


This year I had many ideas for a summer trip, but as always, chance made me choose Slovenia. I had been to this beautiful country a few years ago and visited its most famous places: Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle, the coastal town of Piran, and Lake Bled. I was amazed by these places, and when I came across an advertisement for a campsite by Lake Velenje, I decided that this would be my next destination.

The plan was to spend the first five days camping and exploring the surrounding area, and then move for the next five days to the mountain village of Stara Fužina to hike in the Julian Alps. We had to stay flexible because the weather dictated the conditions, but we managed to visit most of the planned places and were absolutely delighted.

Mapa atrakcji i aktywności w okolicy Jeziora Velenjsko, Słowenia - trasy rowerowe i wodne
Map of activities near the lake

Part 1: The area around Lake Velenje (Days 1–5)


Camp Velenje by Lake Velenjsko – An Ideal Base

Camp Velenje, where we stayed for five days, is a great place both for active holidays and for relaxation, for example during yoga classes held on SUP boards.

Dmuchany plac zabaw na wodzie w Camping Velenje, Słowenia - atrakcja dla dzieci`
Blow-up playground

The region is characterized by a lot of greenery, with numerous cycling and horseback riding trails running through it. Nearby mountains offer climbing opportunities, while the Savinja River provides adventures such as canyoning or rafting.

Mapa tras rowerowych wokół Jeziora Velenjsko w Słowenii - ścieżki dla rowerzystów`
Cycle routes near the lake

The campsite offers various types of accommodation:

  • Plots from 70 m² to 100 m² for tents, caravans, or camper vans

  • All plots have electricity connections

  • Plots are located close to the water

  • Possibility to rent comfortable cottages

  • Exclusive glamping tents for two people

There is also a large and clean sanitary complex. On the campsite, there is a pleasant restaurant where you can have breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Our first day was a very rainy Saturday. We were even worried whether we would be able to pitch the tent. Fortunately, the weather gave us a few hours to settle in – there was no sunshine, but also no rain.

Namiot rozbity na działce w Camping Velenje, Słowenia - miejsce z przyłączem prądu
This is where we pitched our tent

The next day, the weather improved enough for us to fully enjoy water and cycling activities. Thanks to calm waters and rich aquatic life, Lake Velenjsko is an excellent place for SUP. In recent years, SUP has taken over the world of water sports, so we decided to try it ourselves. At Camp Velenje, you can rent a board or bring your own.

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We explored the nearby area by bike using very well-prepared cycling paths. In the evening, unfortunately, it became cloudy and started raining. Our plans for Monday had to change, and after carefully analyzing the weather forecast, we decided to head to the capital, where many attractions can be found “under a roof.”

Ljubljana – The Charming Capital of Slovenia

Ljubljana is one of the smallest European capitals. It is never crowded, but also never boring. Around 50,000 university students give it a youthful vibe, and as the economic and cultural center of Slovenia, it offers a lot both to residents and visitors. All the main attractions can be easily reached on foot.

Ljubljana’s Main Attractions

The Triple Bridge (Tromostovje)

After parking in the underground car park right in the city centre, we set off to explore this charming city. First, we headed towards the Triple Bridge, which is a remarkable architectural feature of Ljubljana.

Potrójny Most (Tromostovje) w Lublanie, Słowenia - projekt architekta Jože Plečnik
The Triple Bridge (Tromostovje)

It is based on an old stone bridge dating from 1842. In 1931, the architect Jože Plečnik added two footbridges on either side of the existing bridge. This created a triple bridge providing access to the Old Town.

Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) in Ljubljana, Slovenia
The Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) - a design by the architect Jože Plečnik

Dragon Bridge (Zmajski Most)

Taking advantage of the dry weather, we headed to the Metelkova district, crossing the famous Dragon Bridge. The dragon is regarded as the symbol and protector of Ljubljana. It features in almost every official depiction of the city, including its coat of arms.

Smoczy Most w Lublanie, Słowenia - słynne posągi smoków, symbol miasta`
Dragon Bridge

The Dragon Bridge, adorned with its famous dragon statues, features in the most iconic photographs of Ljubljana. Built between 1900 and 1901, it was the first reinforced concrete structure in Ljubljana and one of the largest bridges of its kind built in Europe. According to the original plans, it was to be adorned with winged lions instead of dragons.

Local legend has it that when a maiden crosses the bridge, the dragons wag their tails.


Metelkova Mesto – Alternative Culture Centre

It took us about 10 minutes to walk to a very interesting neighbourhood dominated by ubiquitous graffiti.

Metelkova mesto is a centre for alternative culture that has developed within former military barracks and has become one of Ljubljana’s most famous attractions. It brings together a variety of artistic practices and events. It is home to numerous clubs hosting a regular programme of concerts, club nights and one-off club events featuring underground artists and DJs from all over the world.

Metelkova Mesto w Lublanie - centrum kultury alternatywnej z graffiti, Słowenia
Metelkova mesto - graffiti

The centre also hosts performances, exhibitions and occasional festivals. With its lively daily programme of events, it attracts people every night of the week.

Metelkova Mesto w Lublanie - centrum kultury alternatywnej z graffiti, Słowenia

The history of Metelkova Mesto as a cultural centre dates back to 1993, when the northern part of the barracks complex was occupied by a group of around 200 volunteers on the initiative of an independent association of underground artists and intellectuals known as the Metelkova Network (Mreža za Metelkovo). The aim was to prevent the demolition of the abandoned military complex. As a result of the efforts of many well-known Slovenian artists, these 19th-century barracks from the Austro-Hungarian era were transformed into a centre for alternative culture.

Ljubljana Castle

From Metelkova mesto, we headed to Ljubljana’s most recognisable landmark: the castle. No visit to the Slovenian capital would be complete without seeing the castle towering over the city and the gardens surrounding it.

Widok na wzgórze zamkowe w Lublanie, Słowenia - zamek góruje nad miastem`
View of the castle hill

Archaeological research confirms that the Celts were the first to build fortifications on this hill. They were followed by the Illyrians and then the Romans. The origins of the medieval castle date back to the 9th century, although the first written record of the structure does not appear until 1144.

Wieża zamku w Lublanie, Słowenia - punkt widokowy z panoramą miasta
The castle tower
Wieża zamku w Lublanie, Słowenia - punkt widokowy z panoramą miasta

The castle’s renovation is now almost complete. There are two rooms here where weddings are held, as well as the tower, chapel and café, which are open to visitors. The rest of the building is occasionally used for performances, exhibitions and other events.

Near the castle stands a monument to the Slovenian peasant uprising, erected in 1974. It was designed by Stojan Batič.

Pomnik słoweńskiego powstania chłopskiego w Lublanie, Słowenia - rzeźba Stojana Batiča
Monument to the Slovenian Peasants’ Uprising

How to Get to Ljubljana Castle – Funicular & Walking

You can reach the hill by a scenic lift or walk up a very pretty, slightly steep path. As always, we opted for the walk. The whole journey took us no more than 10 minutes.

The cable car runs approximately every 10 minutes and can carry 30 people at a time. The ascent or descent takes about a minute. The lower station of the cable car is located just behind Krekov Trg square.

Górna stacja kolejki linowej na zamek w Lublanie, Słowenia - transport turystyczny`
The lower station of the cable car is located just beyond Krekov Trg square
Dolna stacja kolejki linowej na zamek w Lublanie, Słowenia - transport turystyczny`
The lower station of the cable car

🚡 Ljubljana Castle Cable Car (Funicular) – Prices & Times

The cable car connects the old town centre (Krekov trg) with the castle. The journey takes around 60 seconds.

Category

One way

Both ways

Adults

3,30 €

6,00 €

Children (7–18), students, pensioners, groups of 15 or more

2,30 €

4,50 €

Family

7,90 €

15,00 €

⏰ Frequency: Every 10 minutes


🐕 Dogs: Permitted on the cable car and in the courtyard (on a lead and wearing a muzzle), but NOT inside the castle


We decided not to go inside the castle. We walked around it and strolled through the surrounding park. You won’t find any princely or royal apartments at Ljubljana Castle. The building is very modern, and most of the rooms have been converted into exhibition spaces and catering facilities (a café, a wine bar and two restaurants).

Entry to the castle grounds and the ramparts is free of charge. However, there is an admission charge for the observation tower and the museums. Temporary exhibitions are held in the cellars.
Entry to the castle grounds and the ramparts is free of charge. However, there is an admission charge for the observation tower and the museums. Temporary exhibitions are held in the cellars.

Ljubljana Castle Price List 2026

Source: The castle’s official website - www.ljubljanskigrad.si


🎫 Castle Ticket

The castle ticket includes admission to: - „4D film Virtual Castle" - Slovenian History Exhibition - Museum of Puppetry - Viewing Tower

Ticket prices:

Category

Castle

Castle + return cable car ticket

Adults

15,00 €

19,00 €

Children (7–18), students, pensioners, groups of 15 or more

10,50 €

13,50 €

Family (max. 2 adults + min. 1 child aged 7–18)

36,00 €

46,00 €

*When you buy a family ticket, you’ll receive a Family Guide

FREE ENTRY: - Children under 7 accompanied by a parent (excluding school trips) - People with reduced mobility + a personal assistant - Holders of valid ICOM membership cards (excluding the cable car)

🎧 TICKET WITH AUDIO GUIDE

Castle ticket + audio guide hire

Category

Castle

Castle + return cable car ticket

Adults

19,00 €

23,00 €

Children (7–18), students, pensioners, groups of 15 or more

13,50 €

16,00 €

Family

46,00 €

55,00 €

👥 Guided Tour

Regular guided tour + castle ticket (for individuals)

Category

Castle

Castle + return cable car ticket

Adults

19,00 €

23,00 €

Children (7–18), students, pensioners, groups of 15 or more

13,50 €

16,00 €

Family

46,00 €

55,00 €

🎮 ESCAPE CASTLE

An ‘escape room’-style game (teams of 2–4 players) + castle ticket

Category

Castle

Castle + return cable car ticket

Adults

19,00 € / person

23,00 € / person

Reservation: info-center@ljubljanskigrad.si


🚻 TOILETS

Service

Price

Use of the toilets

1,00 € / person

The receipt from the toilet can be used as a discount voucher in the souvenir shop

💡 MORE INFO

Free admission to the castle courtyard

• Entry to the castle courtyard is FREE

• The courtyard offers a beautiful view of the city

• There are restaurants and cafés in the courtyard

• You only need to pay to enter the museums and the observation tower


What you need to know:

✅ Tickets can be purchased online (recommended to avoid queues)

✅ It is best to buy tickets online the day before your planned visit


The House of Illusions in Ljubljana

Straight from the castle hill, we headed to our final planned attraction, the House of Illusions, located right in the city centre at 13 Kongresni trg.


The House of Illusions is a museum of fun and education where you can test the limits of your perception. Inside, relativity is something you experience quite literally. The illusions offer a different experience of space and everything you think you know about it.

Wejście do Domu Iluzji (House of Illusions) w Lublanie, Słowenia - atrakcja turystyczna
Entrance to the museum

The museum has around 70 exhibits, optical illusions and holograms. Smaller installations, such as the Mirror of Truth, the Ruby Vase, Albert Einstein’s Empty Face and so on, are scattered throughout the museum. Photographs and holograms change, appearing and disappearing before visitors’ eyes.

The museum’s attractions include:

  • The Anti-gravity Room – where everything seems to defy the laws of gravity

  • The Rotated Room – where reality is rotated by 90 degrees

  • The Ames Room – where you appear taller or shorter

  • Vortex Tunnel – where everything seems to be spinning and you struggle to keep your balance

  • A playroom with educational and logic games and puzzles


Practical information:

🕐 OPENING HOURS

Every day (including public holidays):

Monday–Sunday: 09:00 – 21:00

⚠️ LAST ENTRY: 1 hour before closing (i.e. by 20:00)


🎫 PRICE LIST 2025

STANDARD PRICES (weekdays)

Category

Price

Notes

Adults (15+)

14,00 €

Standard admission ticket

Children (5–15)

11,00 €

Children under 5: FREE ENTRY

Students (Curious Minds)

12,00 €

Up to 26 years old with a valid student ID

Seniors (65+)

12,00 €

65+ years old

Family ticket

41,00 €

2 adults + 2 children, all-day access

WEEKEND AND HOLIDAY RATES

Category

Price

Difference vs. weekdays

Adults (15+ lat)

16,00 €

+2 €

Children (5–15 lat)

13,00 €

+2 €

Students (Curious Minds)

14,00 €

+2 €

Seniors (65+)

14,00 €

+2 €

Family ticket

48,00 €

+7 €

What’s included in the ticket:

✅ Access to over 70 exhibits and optical illusions

✅ Interactive exhibitions and installations

✅ Holograms and educational exhibits

✅ Photography permitted in all rooms

✅ All-day access (you can leave and return on the same day)


HOW TO BUY TICKETS?

Option 1: Online (RECOMMENDED – best prices!)

Website: https://shop.houseofillusions.si/tickets

Advantages of buying online:

✅ Lowest price – available only on the official website

✅ Guaranteed entry (no queues at the ticket office)

✅ Saves time

✅ Option to choose a specific time

✅ E-ticket sent to your phone


Option 2: On-site

Ticket office: Kongresni trg 13, Ljubljana

Payment methods: Cash, card

PLEASE NOTE: There may be queues at weekends and on public holidays!


HOW TO GET THERE?

Location:

✅ City centre – Kongresni trg (Congress Square)

✅ Next to the Ljubljanica River

✅ 5–10 minutes’ walk from the main attractions


Public transport:

Buses: 2, 9, 18, 27

Walking:

From the railway station: 16 minutes’ walk (1.3 km)

From Prešeren Square: 5 minutes

From the Castle: 10–15 minutes

By car:

Nearest car park: Kongresni trg or the underground car park at the NUK (National Library)


Celje Castle – The Largest Medieval Castle in Slovenia

The next day promised to be beautiful, sunny, and warm. We decided to take advantage of the opportunity and headed to the town of Celje, located about 25 km from our campsite. Our destination was the largest medieval castle in Slovenia.

Celje Castle is a castle ruin, formerly the seat of the Counts of Celje. It was built on three hills southeast of the city, where the Savinja River meanders into the Laško Valley. The earliest written mention dates back to 1322.

Brama wejściowa do zamku Celje, największego zamku średniowiecznego w Słowenii
Entrance to the castle

It was rebuilt several times and remained in the possession of the Counts of Celje until the 15th century, after which it passed into the hands of the Habsburgs. It fell into ruin in the 17th century. At the end of the 19th century, restoration work began, and the castle was rebuilt from the ground up.

Drzewo genealogiczne hrabiów Celje w zamku, Słowenia - historia rodu
Family tree of the castle's owners

During the most recent renovation, a modern tourist information center and the Veronika café were added, making the site an attractive tourist destination today, offering magnificent views of the city and the surrounding area.

Frederick's Tower – History and Legend

The best-preserved part of the castle is Frederick’s Tower. It owes its name to Frederick II, the son of the most powerful and influential member of the family, Herman II of Cyles.

Wieża Fryderyka w zamku Celje, Słowenia - punkt widokowy z panoramą miasta
Frederick’s Tower

After murdering his wife, Elizabeth Frankopan, Frederick secretly married Veronica Desnic against his father’s will. For this, he was imprisoned by his father and confined to the tower. According to legend, he was saved from death by a loyal servant who dug an underground passage through which he brought him food.

Today, the tower houses an observation deck from which visitors can admire the city lying at its foot.

Wieża Fryderyka w zamku Celje, Słowenia - punkt widokowy z panoramą miasta
View of the city from Frederick's Tower

Celje Castle Legends Worth Knowing

The fortress is known for its rich collection of legends. There are tales of a circular torture plate located in the tower that crushed the prisoners inside, and of a bridge leading from the castle to St. Joseph’s Church, where the wise men crossing it would throw rebellious peasants into the abyss.

Practical information:

  • There is a small parking lot right by the entrance gate; parking is free.

  • You can also reach the castle via a forest path that runs along the walls.

  • In the summer, the castle is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

  • Admission tickets: adults €7, children €3, family ticket (2+1) €15

  • The Veronika café is located on the castle grounds

  • There are swings and a slide for children

We began our tour of this charming place around 10 a.m. The parking lot was almost empty, which meant we were practically alone there the whole time. I highly recommend this historic landmark. Both the tower and the ramparts offer stunning views of the city and the river flowing below. The castle itself has an unforgettable atmosphere; you can really feel the spirit of the past.


Celje Castle (Celjski grad) - OPENING HOURS

Celje Castle is open daily throughout the year. Opening hours vary by month:

Month

Hours

January, December

10:00 – 16:00

February, November

09:00 – 17:00

March, October

09:00 – 18:00

April

09:00 – 19:00

May, September

09:00 – 20:00

June, July, August

09:00 – 21:00

⚠️ LAST ENTRY: 30 minutes before closing


TICKET PRICE LIST - STANDARD TICKETS

Category

Price

Notes

Adults

7,00 €

Includes a €1 credit to use at Kavarna Veronika on the same day

Children (ages 6–15)

3,00 €

No food or drink included

Children under 5

FREE

Free admission

Students

4,00 €

Valid student ID required

Seniors

5,00 €

Document confirming status required

Family (2 adults + children)

15,00 €

Save €2 compared to individual tickets

HOW TO GET THERE?

Parking at the castle:

✅ Free parking right next to the castle entrance gate

✅ Easy access by car

✅ Parking for approx. 30–40 cars

✅ Buses: separate parking lot for tour buses


Directions from the center of Celje:

Walk: - Time: 20–30 minutes - Distance: 1.5 km - Difficulty: Moderate (uphill) - Path: Well-marked, scenic route

By car: - Time: 8 minutes from the center - Road: Paved, in good condition -

Navigation: “Celjski grad” or “Cesta na grad 78”

Public transportation: - No direct bus connection - Best to take a taxi or drive


What else is worth seeing in Celje:

The town of Celje offers many other attractions. You can take a stroll through the surrounding hills, explore the historic center—including the Count’s Palace (Stara Grofija), located near Glavni trg Square—and cross the footbridge over the Savinja River to the city park. Visitors can enjoy the shade of towering trees, meticulously maintained green spaces, and stunning scenery.


Laško Thermal Spa (Thermana Park) – Prices & What to Expect

Enticed by very positive reviews, we decided to spend a few hours at the thermal baths in the nearby town of Laško. They are famous for their healing thermal water, whose properties have been confirmed by decades of therapeutic use in balneotherapy. Recent studies have shown that Laško thermal water is also suitable for drinking.

Thermana Park Laško – Price List for Pools and Saunas (Official)

Thermal Pools

Ticket type

Mon.–Fri

Sat., Sun., holidays, school breaks

Day pass – adults

19 €

23 €

Day pass – children and teenagers (ages 5–18, students up to age 26)

13 €

17 €

3-hour ticket – adults

15 €

19 €

3-hour ticket – children and teens

11 €

15 €

🌙Swimming pools after 7:00 p.m.

Evening ticket

Mon.–Thu.

Friday

Sat., Sun., holidays

Adults

8 €

10 €

12 €

Children and teenagers

6 €

7 €

9 €

Family tickets

Family

Mon.–Fri

Sat., Sun., holidays

2 adults + 1 child (Ages 5–18)

45 €

57 €

2 adults + 2 children

56 €

72 €

2 adults + 3 children

67 €

87 €



Beneath the magnificent glass dome, you’ll find: a wave pool, a recreational and massage pool with waterfalls and underwater springs, a rapid river, a children’s water park, three hot tubs above the pool, a Kneipp zone, and a water slide. Outdoor facilities include: a thermal pool connected to the indoor pool, a recreational pool, a children’s pool, an outdoor crystal hot tub, a fast slide, and a children’s splash park.

According to the brochures, bathing in Laško thermal water refreshes, revitalizes, and detoxifies. We left feeling rested and relaxed. A beautiful and well-maintained place surrounded by green hills and a river flowing nearby. For me, the main advantages of the thermal center are the varied and inspiring water relaxation experiences under a unique glass dome that multiplies the sun’s rays, creating magical moments.


Špančeva Zidanica Winery – Local Wine Tasting

In one of the blogs about Slovenian vineyards, I came across an interesting statement that “pure wine flows in the veins of this small country.” Until now, I hadn’t had the opportunity to try wine from this country, as Slovenia cannot match production giants like France or Italy in terms of volume. Here, everything is rather based on small-scale, family-run, home production. But there are quite a lot of these mini vineyards – we found three near our campsite.

We decided to visit one of them in the evening, as the weather was still in our favor, despite rather pessimistic forecasts. After about a 15-minute drive, we found the Špančeva Zidanica vineyard.

Winorośle w winnicy Špančeva Zidanica, Słowenia - uprawa winorośli
In the cellars of this historic house, barrels of wine are kept.

⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTE about access:

If anyone plans to visit this place, there are two access routes: on one side, a wide asphalt road, and on the other, a narrow gravel path where a car can barely fit. Of course, Google Maps led us along the latter, turning what was supposed to be a pleasant short trip into an automotive nightmare. At one point, residents even came out of a house to see for themselves whether, with folded mirrors and at a snail’s pace, we would manage to squeeze through the narrow road bordered by fences on both sides. To make things more intense, there was a mountainside on one side and a steep drop on the other.

The first question we were asked upon arriving at the vineyard was why we had chosen that route—and kudos to the driver for managing it! Once we had calmed down, we could start admiring the fantastic views and strike up a conversation with the incredibly friendly owners.

Winorośle w winnicy Špančeva Zidanica, Słowenia - uprawa winorośli
The grapevines at the Špančeva Zidanica vineyard.

About Špančeva Zidanica Winery

Špančeva Zidanica is a gem of the cultural and ethnological heritage of Slovenian viticulture. As we descended the steep driveway to a small, high-basement house, beneath which centuries-old grapevines grow, we felt as if we had stepped back in time.

The interior of a multi-generational home where you can taste wine.
The interior of a multi-generational home where you can taste wine.

Anže Podgoršek, a winemaker for generations, explained to us how the oak wine press from 1791 works, took us into the traditional cellar, and offered us exceptional wine made from the native white Ranfol grape, along with some snacks.

Wine presentation and tasting
Wine presentation and tasting

An oak wine press from 1791
An oak wine press from 1791

The vineyard consists of three plots:

  • The oldest contains grapevines that are over 150 years old.

  • In 1995, they planted varieties cultivated using cuttings from 150-year-old vines, “Refoška – Raška rosa.”

  • The youngest vineyard was established in 2012 at the top of Marežgan Hill, directly exposed to the influence of the sea, sun, and winds.

Winorośle w winnicy Špančeva Zidanica, Słowenia - uprawa winorośli

Winorośle w winnicy Špančeva Zidanica, Słowenia - uprawa winorośli

In this winery, every bottle has its own story to tell. Of course, you can also make purchases there. Besides a fair amount of wine, we also bought some liqueurs, which are made on-site as well.

Homemade liqueurs
Homemade liqueurs

Although I really enjoy wine, I still can’t match the average Slovenian, who reportedly drinks thirty-three liters of this grape beverage per year. But can it be otherwise, considering that the oldest grapevine in the world (440 years old), still bearing fruit, grows in this country? Climbing up the wall of a house in Maribor, saved somewhat by chance, it stands as a clear sign – we have been making wine forever, without interruption.

Contact:

  • Address: Mali Vrh 56, 3327 Šmartno ob Paki, Slovenia

  • GPS: 46.336404, 15.040421

  • Tel: +386 31 348 676

  • Email: anze.podgorsek@gmail.com


Škofja Loka – A Colorful Little Town

On the fifth day of our stay in Slovenia, it was time to change our base. Our next destination, where we planned to spend the remaining five days, was the small alpine village of Stara Fužina by Lake Bohinj in Triglav National Park. The drive from the campsite was supposed to take about two hours, and along the way we decided to visit the beautiful town of Škofja Loka.

Škofja Loka is a charming town located on the route between Ljubljana and Lake Bled. With an impressive castle perched on a hilltop and a stunning main square, it is a perfect place for a few hours’ visit.

Widok na miasto Škofja Loka z wzgórza zamkowego, Słowenia - panorama starego miasta
View of the town from the castle hill
Nowy most nad rzeką Selška Sora w Škofja Loka, Słowenia - punkt widokowy
The new bridge over the Selška Sora River

History of Škofja Loka:

This town boasts a rich history spanning over 1,000 years. Its origins date back to the 10th century, when the Bavarian bishops of Freising decided to establish a settlement here called Bischoflach. In German, the name meant “Bishop’s Meadow,” while in Slovenian it became Škofja Loka. It enjoys a spectacular location at the confluence of two rivers and is surrounded by picturesque hills.

It is a remarkably well-preserved small medieval town, perfect for short walks. It is also home to many historical landmarks worth seeing.

Main Attractions of Škofja Loka

Capuchin Bridge

We began by entering the town via the new bridge over the Selška Sora River and stopped to admire the views. On one side stands the beautifully preserved Capuchin Bridge.

Most Kapucynów w Škofja Loka, Słowenia - najstarszy zachowany most w kraju z XIV wieku
Capuchin Bridge

It is the oldest preserved bridge in Slovenia. The bridge was built in the mid-14th century, although its iron railings are much newer. In the middle of the bridge stands a statue of Saint John of Nepomuk.

The new bridge is a perfect spot to photograph the Capuchin Bridge in its beautiful surroundings.

Figura świętego Jana Nepomucena na Moście Kapucynów, Škofja Loka, Słowenia
The statue of Saint John of Nepomuk.

Church of St. James

Almost immediately upon entering the town, you come across the Church of St. James. This parish church, built in the Late Gothic style in the 15th century, is beautiful. Its turquoise-colored bell tower is typical of Slovenian churches.

Kościół Świętego Jakuba w Škofja Loka, Słowenia - gotycki kościół z XV wieku
The Church of St. James.

Capuchin Church

Near the Stone Bridge stands the Capuchin Church. The complex consists of the Church of St. Anne and the Capuchin monastery, built in the early 18th century. The monastery library holds many rare old books, as well as records of births, deaths, and marriages.

It is also home to the Škofja Loka Passion manuscript, written by the Capuchin friar Father Romuald in 1721. It is listed as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Mestni Trg – The Main Square

Next, head to Mestni Trg, the town’s main square.

The façades of the houses along Mestni Trg are stunning. Their bright shades of orange, yellow, and dusty pink have earned the town the nickname “Colorful Loka.” The details on the façades are equally beautiful.

Mestni Trg - główny plac w Škofja Loka, Słowenia, z kolorowymi kamienicami
Mestni Trg – the main square in Škofja Loka, Slovenia, with colorful townhouses.

The Old Town Hall features frescoes dating back to the 17th century. The Homan House has frescoes depicting soldiers and Saint Christopher, which were discovered during renovations after an earthquake. Most of the houses in the square have names, likely derived from their owners. You’ll also find Martin House, which was built as an extension of the medieval walls, and Žigon House at the edge of the wider part of the square.

Plague Column

The square is also home to the Plague Column, featuring statues of the Virgin Mary, Saint Anthony, and Saint Roch. This Baroque monument was built in the 18th century as a token of gratitude for protecting the town from the plague.

Słup Zarazy na placu Mestni Trg w Škofja Loka, Słowenia - barokowy pomnik z XVIII wieku
Plague Column

Škofja Loka Castle

The distinctive silhouette of the castle, rebuilt after an earthquake, stands out in the town’s skyline. Inside, it houses a museum whose exhibition is considered one of the most interesting in the country. The ethnographic display is particularly noteworthy. The castle’s façade is impressive, especially with its bright red roof.

Zamek w Škofja Loka, Słowenia - fasada z jaskrawoczerwonym dachem, muzeum
The path leading up to the castle hill

A gentle path leads up the not-too-high castle hill. The walk to the top is beautiful. In spring and summer, you can see plenty of wildflowers along the way, while in autumn the leaves turn stunning colors. Most people shouldn’t have any trouble reaching the castle on foot, but it is also possible to drive up.

In the adjacent park, we found a beautiful linden tree avenue.

The park located near the castle
The park located near the castle
The Linden Avenue
The Linden Avenue

Pr Pepet Restaurant – Where to Eat

As lunchtime was approaching, we decided to head to a local restaurant. We chose Pr Pepet (https://www.prpepet.si/), which is said to be one of the locals’ favorite places to spend time.

The owners, Janez and Polona, are truly hospitable and speak excellent English. The food is really good—fresh and delicious. There is a great selection of wines and beers from local microbreweries. In summer, it’s the perfect place to sit in the garden, enjoy a coffee or beer, or have something tasty to eat. The restaurant is also vegetarian-friendly.

The cozy interior of the Pr Pepet restaurant
The cozy interior of the Pr Pepet restaurant

Getting There and Parking:

Škofja Loka can be a great day trip from Ljubljana or Bled. It is located just over 20 kilometers from Ljubljana, and the drive takes about 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. There is a parking lot near the train station, another just before the bridge leading to the old town, and one more on the hill if you drive along the river.


Part 2: Lake Bohinj and the Julian Alps (Days 6–10)


Lake Bohinj – Slovenia's Most Beautiful Alpine Lake

We decided to spend the rest of our holiday hiking in the mountains, cycling, and enjoying all the other activities this region has to offer. We looked for accommodation near Lake Bohinj and found the perfect place in the village of Stara Fužina.

Lake Bohinj lies in the heart of the Julian Alps, which are the highest and largest mountain range in Slovenia, as well as the southeasternmost part of the Alps. It is a quieter and less crowded destination than the famous Lake Bled, making it ideal for those seeking a more authentic connection with nature.

The surroundings of Lake Bohinj
The surroundings of Lake Bohinj
The Bohinj Lake
The Bohinj Lake

What to See at Lake Bohinj:

Church of St. John the Baptist

It’s worth taking a walk around the lake (over 10 km) and along the way visiting the settlement of Ribčev Laz and the Church of St. John the Baptist, which combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Its interior is covered with Gothic frescoes.

The Church of St. John the Baptist
The Church of St. John the Baptist

Stara Fužina – An Ideal Base for Accommodation

Apartmaji Verica Ceklin Address: Stara Fužina 142, 4265 Bohinj, Slovenia

A two-room apartment with a kitchenette, bathroom, and a flower-filled balcony was located in a beautiful mountain house with a view of the Julian Alps. It was peaceful and quiet, yet it was easy to reach all the main attractions from there. Shops, restaurants, and bus stops are available nearby.

Mostnica Gorge – Hiking Trail Near Lake Bohinj

Mostnica Gorge is one of the most beautiful places in the Lake Bohinj area. The crystal-clear river cuts through rock formations, creating spectacular waterfalls and natural pools.

A detailed guide to Mostnica Gorge, including trail descriptions, practical information, and photos, can be found in a separate article:

Vogel – A Cable Car Trip

Vogel is a mountain offering breathtaking views of Lake Bohinj and the surrounding peaks of the Julian Alps. A cable car takes visitors up to 1,540 meters above sea level, where stunning panoramas await.

Read more: A complete guide to visiting Vogel, including hiking trails, cable car prices, and practical tips, can be found here:

Seven Lakes Valley – Day Hike in Triglav National Park

The trail through the Triglav Lakes Valley (Seven Lakes Valley) is one of the most spectacular mountain experiences in Slovenia. This demanding yet unforgettable hike leads through alpine meadows and past seven glacial lakes.

Trip details: A complete guide to this alpine route, including maps, hiking times, difficulty level, and practical advice, can be found in the article:


Summary – Why Visit Slovenia?

Slovenia is a country that offers incredible diversity within a small area.

In 10 days, you can experience:

✓ Fairytale landscapes – lakes, mountains, waterfalls, gorges

✓ A rich history – castles, medieval towns, historical sites

✓ Active holidays – hiking, SUP, cycling, climbing

✓ Relaxation – thermal spas, vineyards, peaceful campsites

✓ Authentic culture – local vineyards, traditional cuisine


Will we return to Slovenia?

Definitely! We plan to climb the Triglav massif – Slovenia’s highest peak, which we didn’t have time for this time round. This beautiful country still has so much to offer, and we’ll definitely be back.










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