Slovenia, a country in central Europe, wedged in between: Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia. It is relatively small with a population of just over 2 million people. The official language of the country is Slovenian and the currency used is euro.
Slovenia is known for its ski resorts, lakes and beautiful landscapes.
Getting to Slovenia
If you are planning to fly, you will arrive at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport located 24km/15miles northwest of Ljubljana. There are direct flight connections available from most major European cities. There is a local bus operating between the airport and Ljubljana bus station, alternatively you can get a taxi.
You may also consider a train. There are international trains connecting Ljubljana (the capital city of Slovenia) with Zagreb, Budapest as well many international coach connections.
Ljubljana
The is lots of accommodation choices within the city, from hostels, to hotels and Airbnb apartments. Personally I have stayed at the City Hotel Ljubljana which is centrally located and everything is within walking distance so you don't need to use the public transport.
Things to see in the city include:
Ljubljana castle
Tivoli Park
Dragon bridge
Central Market
House of Illusions
Make sure just to walk around the city and just get lost, wondering around the beautiful streets of the old town. In the summer there are some sport events going on along the river which really livens up the city and allows you to see what the locals get up to in their free time.
Honey production has a long history in Slovenia. I highly recommend visiting the honey house in Ljubljana, where you can buy, or even just taste some of the best and unexpected honey products that I was ever able to try!
Every country I visit I aim to try and have a meal at McDonald's and let me tell you McDonald's in Slovenia proved to be one of the best ones I have ever had. Other than that, there are many coffee shops all over the city as well as very good restaurants, such as Restavracija Most.
Lake Bled
Lake Bled is one of the most picturesque spots to visit in Slovenia. Located 55km/34miles away from Ljubljana, easiest way to reach it would be by hiring a car. You can also reach the lake by train which takes under two hours from the capital. When you are at the Lake Bled, other than taking in the stunning scenery, you can walk around the lake which takes around and hour - hour and a half. You can also hop on the boat and make your way to the Bled Island, which is the centrepiece of Lake Bled.
On the island there is a little church with rather interesting legend. Its believed that whoever rings this bell will have their wish come true. The story goes that 500 years ago a widow had a bell made in memory of her husband. While the bell was being transported across the lake, a storm struck Lake Bled, sinking the boat, the bell, and everyone on board. The Pope consecrated a new bell and that one was successfully installed in the church. Now, when you ring this bell, you are showing honour to the Virgin Mary and your wish will come true.
As a result, when you approach the Bled Island you will most likely hear the church bells ringing and that's everyone ringing the bells to have their wishes come true.
You can combine your trip to Lake Bled with a visit to the oldest castle in Slovenia - Lake Bled Castle, that sits on the cliffs overlooking the lake. There is a museum located the castle, you can also do some wine tasting the castes cellar as well as if you fancy lunch or dinner with spectacular views, you are at the right place.
Postojna Cave
One of Slovenia's top tourist attractions, located in southwestern part of the country. You can access the cave from Ljubljana by train, which takes just over one hour and then it is about 20 min walk from the station. Make sure to pack a jumper even when visiting in the summer as the temperature in the cave is rather chilly. The cave has a constant temperature of 10 degrees Celsius. I advise to arrive at the cave fairly early as the queues can be quite long even when you have purchased the tickets online.
Make sure to wear comfortable footwear. Part of the tour through the cave is made on a train, but there is also a lot of walking involved. Its an amazing experience especially if you are into nature. You can also visit the Expo exhibition during the visit. If you get hungry after all the walking you have done, there is limited choice of restaurants just outside the entrance where you can grab a burger before you head back.
If you wish to, you can combine your visit to Postojna Cave with Predjama Castle. When booking your cave tickets, you will have an option to combine the two attractions and purchase your tickets in one place. Predjama Caste is Renaissance castle built within a cave. Its a great option for those of you who enjoy history, but also like to visit a castle which isn't just your bulk standard castle which you have seen so many before.