Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Slovenia

If you’re thinking about heading to Slovenia, we’re here to help you plan the perfect trip. After an incredible experience in this beautiful country, we’ve compiled all the essentials you need to know before you go. From the capital city of Ljubljana, to hiking in the Julian Alps, and finishing off with a visit to the magical Lake Bled, Slovenia will truly surprise you with its charm, history, and natural beauty.

Welcome to Travel with Track Us Down!

Hi, we’re Monique and Doug! If this is your first time here, welcome to our blog! We’re the creators of the Track Us Down! YouTube channel, where we talk about retiring early, moving abroad, and living what we like to call “the better second half of life.” Based on the beautiful island of Madeira, Portugal, we’re passionate about travel and discovering hidden gems around the world.

On our most recent adventure, we discovered Slovenia – a country we previously didn’t know much about. Slovenia was once part of Yugoslavia and is located in Central/Eastern Europe, though it’s quickly becoming one of Europe’s must-visit destinations. Here’s what you need to know about exploring three incredible areas: Ljubljana, the Julian Alps, and Lake Bled.

Exploring Ljubljana: Slovenia’s Charming Capital City

Our first stop was Ljubljana, the country’s beautiful and walkable capital. This city has it all – history, modernity, and a youthful, active vibe. Here are a few key things to know before visiting:

1. Stay Near Old Town. Ljubljana’s Old Town is where all the charm is. It’s full of history, restaurants, cafes, and microbreweries. The city is very walkable, and you can explore much of it on foot, either on your own or by joining a free walking tour.

2. Experience the Active Lifestyle. Ljubljana is an active city with people jogging, biking, and enjoying the outdoors. You’ll also find electric buses running everywhere, making it easy to get around.

3. Tivoli Park. If you want to enjoy a relaxing Sunday, head to Tivoli Park – a massive green space in the middle of the city. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a city “hike.”

4. Indulge in Local Cuisine. While in Ljubljana, we recommend trying traditional Slovenian dishes. Monique’s favorite was ričet, a hearty barley soup, while Doug enjoyed burek, a delicious pastry stuffed with fillings like cheese or meat.

5. Visit Ljubljana Castle. For history lovers, Ljubljana Castle is a must-visit. You can explore most of the castle for free, but we suggest skipping the paid tours unless you’re really into towers or puppetry museums. The walk up to the castle offers incredible views, and there’s even a cute café inside.

6. Catch Some Jazz. If you’re in town on a Friday night, check out the jazz club located in the basement of the castle. It’s an Art Deco space with amazing acoustics – perfect for a night of music.

7. Don’t Miss the Dragons! Ljubljana’s dragon emblem is everywhere, from statues to souvenirs, symbolizing its mythical history tied to Jason and the Argonauts. The dragons, along with the city’s lush green spaces, create a magical vibe.

Hiking in the Julian Alps

While Ljubljana is a fantastic city, we were really in Slovenia for the hiking. The Julian Alps, named after Julius Caesar, are a haven for nature lovers like us. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Plan Your Route. If you love hiking, we recommend the Juliana Trail, which loops around the Julian Alps. However, it can be intimidating if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Lake Bohinj and Lake Bled make great bases for day hikes, but if you want to experience hut-to-hut hiking (which we highly recommend), plan ahead. Monique planned our four-day hike herself, saving us a lot of money compared to booking a tour.

2. Gear Up with a Garmin. We can’t stress this enough – bring a Garmin. Doug loves the Garmin GPSMAP 66i, which connects to two satellite systems and can get you through any alpine adventure. It was especially handy when we had to change our route due to storm damage, as it helped us stay on track with pre-loaded maps and alternate paths. Plus, it’s a lifesaver when there’s no cell service in the mountains.

3. Be Physically Prepared. Hiking in the Alps involves some serious elevation gains. You’ll be carrying a pack, so make sure you’re ready for the physical challenge. We recommend waterproof hiking boots with solid soles, as the terrain can be tough on footwear.

4. Hut-to-Hut Accommodations. Forget what you think you know about huts – these are more like alpine bed-and-breakfasts. Clean rooms, hot showers, and hearty breakfasts await you after a long day of hiking. It’s the perfect reward after conquering the trails.

5. Stunning Scenery. The Julian Alps are a nature lover’s dream. Picture lush valleys, snow-capped peaks, and the sound of cowbells ringing in the distance. You’ll pass through charming villages and witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Europe.

The Magic of Lake Bled

Our final stop was the enchanting Lake Bled, known for its iconic island church and crystal-clear waters. Here’s what you need to know about this magical destination:

1. The Iconic Lake Bled. Lake Bled is picture-perfect, with its turquoise-green waters and the charming island church in the middle. The water temperature was a warm 24°C (75°F) when we visited in September, making it perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.

2. Explore the Wellness Culture. Lake Bled is historically a wellness destination, known for its clean air and relaxing atmosphere. Whether you’re staying at a wellness hotel or just enjoying the beautiful surroundings, you’ll feel rejuvenated after a visit here.

3. Walk the Lake’s Circumference. One of the best things to do is walk around the entire lake, which takes about an hour (longer if you stop to take in the views). There are plenty of paved paths, and you’ll see people walking, biking, and enjoying ice cream.

4. Row to the Island. For a small fee, you can either rent a rowboat or pay to be rowed to the island. It’s definitely worth it! Once there, you can explore the church and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains.

5. Visit Bled Castle. Unlike Ljubljana Castle, we highly recommend paying for the tour at Bled Castle. The views from the top are incredible, and the museum inside gives you a great sense of the region’s history. First mentioned in 1004, the castle adds to the fairytale vibe of the area.

6. Try the Famous Bled Cake. You can’t leave Lake Bled without trying the famous Bled Cream Cake, best enjoyed at the Park Hotel where it was invented. It’s a delicious and indulgent treat after a day of exploring.

7. Rent E-Bikes to Vintgar Gorge. One of our favorite activities was renting e-bikes and heading to the nearby Vintgar Gorge. The ride is easy with e-bikes, and you’ll beat the crowds by arriving without a car. The gorge itself is breathtaking, with rushing waters and dramatic cliffs.

Final Thoughts

Slovenia exceeded all of our expectations. From the lively capital of Ljubljana to the majestic Julian Alps and the serene beauty of Lake Bled, this country is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a city lover, a hiking enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Slovenia has something for everyone. If you enjoyed reading about our journey, make sure to check out our YouTube channel Track Us Down! for more tips on early retirement, moving abroad, and living your best second half of life. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new adventure! Thanks for spending some time with us today, and we’ll see you on our next trip. Until then, Track Us Down!