Italy, France, Greece, Spain—these are the heavy-hitting “must-visit” European destinations at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists. But there’s a dynamic yet often-overlooked country that deserves to be added: Slovenia.
A compact country to explore, Slovenia is a short flight from many of Europe’s major airports (and even a short drive from major cities, like Venice). You could add an excursion into Slovenia to your European itinerary—or build your entire vacation around it. Here’s five reasons why you should:
1. It’s like Italy … without the crowds.
Cruising alongside country roads bordered by wildflowers and vineyards, breaking bread with the locals at quaint cafes, strolling cobblestone streets in picturesque villages that have been around for centuries … that’s what many travelers imagine when they think of a vacation in Italian hotspots like Tuscany.
But this is the experience you actually get in Slovenia. Slovenia still remains distinctly under the radar, with as many quaint hamlets and romantic landscapes as its more popular neighbor. The most iconic areas of Italy, meanwhile, have been overrun by big coach buses and tourists crammed shoulder to shoulder in the streets during the high season. If you’re after a more authentic trip, Slovenia is the ticket.
2. You get to experience multiple countries in one.
Slovenia is a largely landlocked country that’s boarded by four others. In addition to Italy to its West, Slovenia’s neighbors include Austria, Hungary, and Croatia, and its coast touches a sliver of the Adriatic Sea. This confluence of cultures makes Slovenia a real melting pot, where Europe’s East meets West.
3. There’s charming architecture galore.
If you’re after vistas that looked like they were pulled straight out of a fairytale, Slovenia delivers. Its crown jewel is Lake Bled. The lake is ringed by mountains, and in the middle of the lake you’ll find tiny Bled Island—home to a church with a freestanding bell tower that dates back to 1465. The red-roofed tower set against the backdrop of the blue lake and imposing mountains is one of the most iconic images of Europe. Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, is a must for architecture lovers as well, with its walkable old town filled with ornate bridges, churches, and red-roofed palaces.
4. Breathtaking green landscapes beckon active travelers.
From the Julian Alps to the Soca Valley, Slovenia is an active traveler’s paradise. Pristine nature blankets much of the country, making it the perfect destination for hiking, cycling, paddling, and more. Your adventure may take you through verdant forests, near cliff-top castles, and along trails grazed by shaggy cows. If you don’t want to traverse Slovenian landscapes on your own, you can join a walking, cycling, or e-bike tour (I can help pair you up with one!).
5. The food (and wine!) is incredible.
You’ll eat very well in Slovenia, with its hearty Northern Italian and Balkan-influenced cuisine. Think savory dumplings, stews, and warming soups. Butter-heavy pastries and cakes are hard to pass up, too! But if you’re a wine aficionado, you’ll love what Slovenia has to offer. The country has been producing wine since the 5th century BC, and in recent decades quality has really climbed. You can find red, white, and even organic “orange” varietals across Slovenia—and the different wine regions are all within just a few hours’ drive from one another.
Ready to explore spectacular Slovenia?
My team and I at Diya Vacations would love to help—book your complimentary consultation call with me to get started.
