Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary
Experience a road trip of a lifetime in the beautiful country of Slovenia. This 7-day road trip starts and ends in Ljubljana, taking you through some of the most stunning scenes in the country. Along the way, you'll pass through Bled, Nova Gorica, Piran, Novo Mesto, and Maribor, all of which offer unique experiences that you won't want to miss. The total distance is 853km and is best to be done in the summertime, when the weather is at its best.
The landscapes you'll experience along the route are truly breathtaking, including rolling hills, lush forests, and vibrant cities. Be sure to check out the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Piran, Novo Mesto, and Maribor. The roads are in excellent condition, so you can rest assured that you'll have a safe and comfortable journey.
This road trip provides an unforgettable experience that you'll remember for years to come. It's suitable for any driver, regardless of experience, and can be done on a moderate budget. With stunning views, exciting attractions, and a wonderful atmosphere, the Slovenia Road Trip is an experience you won't forget.
7
number of days
853 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Ljubljana
Distance 853 km
Driving time 15.2 h
Pace: modest
221.9 kWh
Airports
LJU
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Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is an ideal starting point for the Slovenia Road Trip. It is a vibrant city full of cultural attractions, museums, and monuments. A must-see is the iconic Ljubljana Castle, an impressive medieval fortress perched atop a hill. There are many other fascinating sights to explore, such as the Triple Bridge, the Dragon Bridge, the Franciscan Church, and the Tivoli Park.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU). It offers car rental services, so travelers can get straight on the road as soon as they arrive. The Slovenia Road Trip begins with a scenic drive along the Adriatic Coast, where travelers can admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The road then heads north, taking in the picturesque towns and villages of the Slovenian countryside.
Whether it's vibrant city life, stunning coastal views, or peaceful rural retreats, the Slovenia Road Trip has something to offer everyone. Start your journey in Ljubljana and explore the best that Slovenia has to offer.
1
Ljubljana
- Bled
Distance 54 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
16.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Ljubljana to Bled, a journey of 54 km that will take you less than an hour. Start your trip in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, and admire the city's unique architectural style, art galleries, and cultural attractions. Then, continue your journey to Bled, a stunning town situated on the glacial Lake Bled. Visit the iconic Bled Castle, perched on a rocky cliff above the lake, and enjoy the magnificent views of the lake and the Julian Alps in the background. Explore the historic streets of the old town, visit the beautiful Church of the Assumption, and take a boat ride to the island in the middle of the lake. Don't forget to try the famous Bled Cream Cake and take a walk around the lake's shore. With its picturesque landscapes and historical sites, this road trip is sure to be a memorable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.
Bled - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
Bled - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Bled
- Kranjska Gora
- Soce Valley
- Bovec
Distance 85 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
22.0 kWh
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Start your road trip in the beautiful town of Bled, Slovenia, and take a scenic drive through the Soča Valley and Kranjska Gora. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and lush forests. You'll have the chance to explore the historical sites of Kranjska Gora and Soča Valley, as well as the picturesque landscapes of the Julian Alps. Be sure to take a break to admire the breathtaking views of the Julian Alps, and take some time to explore the many hiking trails that wind through the area. As you make your way to Bovec, you'll also have the opportunity to visit the nearby villages and explore the local culture. The entire journey is only 85 km and will take you less than two hours to complete.
This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, so be sure to keep an eye out for more attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. For more information, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip and have a safe journey!
Bovec - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Bovec - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Bovec - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Bovec
- Kobarid
- Nova Gorica
Distance 71 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: modest
18.4 kWh
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Embark on a magical road trip from Bovec in Slovenia to Nova Gorica and explore the stunning natural beauty of the region. This 71 km drive, taking less than 2 hours, will take you through the picturesque towns of Kobarid and Nova Gorica.
Kobarid, located in the Soča Valley, is known for its picturesque landscapes and historical sites. Be sure to make a stop at the Kobarid Museum, which tells the story of the Isonzo Front during World War I. The nearby Kozjak Waterfall is also worth a visit.
The next stop is Nova Gorica, a vibrant city located on the border between Italy and Slovenia. Stroll through the town's cobbled streets, admire the architecture and explore the local culture. Don't miss out on the Solkan Bridge, a beautiful 19th century structure, and the nearby Šmartno Church.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Nova Gorica - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Nova Gorica - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Nova Gorica
- Štanjel
- Lipica
Distance 47 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
12.3 kWh
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Embark on an amazing road trip to explore Slovenia's stunning countryside! Start your journey in Nova Gorica and drive through Štanjel, a picturesque village at the foothills of the Karst Plateau, to reach Lipica in less than an hour. Along the route, take in the stunning views of vineyards, rolling hills, and lush forests.
In Štanjel, explore the historical sites, such as the medieval castle, the church of St. Martin, and the Church of the Assumption. Enjoy the views of the Karst Plateau and the nearby Italian border from the top of the castle.
Continue your journey to Lipica, home to the famous Lipizzaner horses. Visit the Lipica Stud Farm to admire the majestic horses and learn about their history. Enjoy the picturesque scenery of the Lipica Stud Farm, and take a stroll in the lush park.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start your road trip adventure to explore the stunning countryside of Slovenia!
Lipica - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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5
Lipica
- Koper
- Piran
Distance 57 km
Driving time 0.8 h
Pace: fast
17.0 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Lipica, Slovenia to Piran! This 57 km journey, which will take you less than an hour to complete, will take you through the beautiful Koper. As you make your way along this route, be sure to look out for some of the interesting historical sites that dot the landscape.
In Lipica, you can take a tour of the Lipica Stud Farm, a breeding ground for the world-famous Lipizzaner horses. You can also explore the nearby Lipica Cave, a natural underground cave system. Koper is also home to some great attractions, such as the Praetorian Palace, the Loggia, and the Town Hall. From here, you can also take a boat trip to the nearby Strunjan Nature Reserve.
Finally, you will reach Piran, a picturesque fishing village. Here, you can explore the Venetian-style old town, which is home to the Church of Saint George and a number of other historical sites. You can also take a stroll along the harbor and admire the views of the Adriatic Sea.
For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Piran - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Piran - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikipedia
Piran - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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6
Piran
- Postojna
Distance 84 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: fast
25.2 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Piran, Slovenia to Postojna! This 84 km drive will take you less than two hours to reach your destination, and along the way you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful and historical sites in the country. Start your journey in the stunning seaside town of Piran, where you can marvel at the Venetian-style architecture and take in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. From there, you’ll drive through the Karst region, where you can admire the picturesque landscapes and visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. Stop in the charming town of Štanjel, where you can explore the 16th century castle and take a stroll through the cobbled streets. You’ll then continue on to Postojna, a town known for its incredible caves. Take a tour of the caves and learn about their fascinating history before ending your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the itinerary for this stage.
Postojna - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Flickr
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7
Postojna
- Fužina
- Novo Mesto
Distance 119 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
30.8 kWh
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Welcome, road-trippers! We invite you to take a 119 km journey from Postojna, Slovenia to Novo Mesto. Start your journey in Postojna and make sure to visit the famous Postojna Cave, the largest cave system in Slovenia. Afterward, head to Fužina, and explore the beautiful nature of the area. Don't forget to take a stroll around the lake and visit the local church. Then, continue your journey to Novo Mesto, where you can explore the historical sites such as the Old Town and the castle. Make sure to also visit the old churches, the museum, and the local market. The entire journey should take you less than three hours, so don't forget to take your time and enjoy the beautiful scenery. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Novo Mesto - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Википедия
Novo Mesto - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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8
Novo Mesto
- Otočec
- Kostanjevica
- Celje
Distance 103 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: modest
26.7 kWh
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Start your adventure in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, a city of great historical importance. From here, take a 103 km journey to the medieval town of Otočec, located on the banks of the Krka river. Here you can admire the castle, which is a true gem of Slovenian architecture. After a short drive, you will reach Kostanjevica, a picturesque town full of old churches, monasteries and parks. Make sure to take a few pictures of the magnificent views of the mountains and the river. The last part of the trip leads you to Celje, the third largest city in Slovenia. Here you can explore the old city center, the castle, and the beautiful churches. The drive will take you less than 3 hours, so make sure to enjoy the scenery. On the way, pay attention to the historical sites to get a glimpse of the rich history of the region. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great road trip!
Celje - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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9
Celje
- Maribor
Distance 56 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
16.9 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Celje to Maribor and explore the beauty of Slovenia! This 56 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete and will be an unforgettable experience.
Start your journey in Celje, the third largest city in Slovenia, where you can visit the Celje Castle, the old town centre, and the Open-Air Museum of Celje. Then, drive through the beautiful countryside of Slovenia, taking in the stunning views and admiring the rolling hills.
As you approach Maribor, you will be captivated by the city's historical sites, such as the Old Vine House, the Maribor Castle, and the Maribor Synagogue. Take a stroll through the city's old town centre, and don't forget to visit the Lent Promenade, where you can enjoy a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Finally, end your journey in Maribor with a visit to the Pohorje Mountains, where you can take in the breathtaking views and explore the many trails.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from Celje to Maribor!
Maribor - Slovenia - Europe - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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10
Maribor
- Slovenj Gradec
- Ljubljana
Distance 178 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
53.5 kWh
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Embark on a road trip through Slovenia, beginning in Maribor, the second-largest city in the country. From there, drive 178 km to Slovenj Gradec, a small town with a rich history. Visit the Old Castle, a 13th century castle that stands atop a hill overlooking the city. The castle is home to a museum and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. After you’ve explored the castle, head to the nearby Church of St. Bartholomew, a stunning baroque church built in the 17th century.
Continue your journey to Ljubljana, the capital and largest city of Slovenia. Visit the Ljubljana Castle, a medieval fortress and museum that offers breathtaking views of the city. Then, explore the Old Town, a charming area full of narrow cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Don’t miss the iconic Triple Bridge, a three-arched bridge that spans the Ljubljanica River.
This road trip is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. With fewer than 3 hours of driving time, this is a great way to experience the beauty of Slovenia.
Ljubljana
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If you are planning a road trip to Slovenia, Ljubljana should be your final destination. As the capital and largest city in the country, Ljubljana offers plenty of activities and attractions to explore. From historic castles to vibrant nightlife and unique restaurants, the city has something for everyone.
One of the most popular attractions in Ljubljana is Ljubljana Castle, perched atop Castle Hill. The castle has been standing since the 16th century and offers stunning views of the city below. Inside, visitors can explore the castle’s museum and chapel.
For a taste of Ljubljana’s nightlife, a visit to the Metelkova City is a must. This alternative culture center is filled with street art, music venues and bars. The city also has a number of unique restaurants, such as the award-winning JB Restavracija, serving traditional Slovenian cuisine.
When it comes to outdoor activities, Ljubljana has plenty to offer. The Ljubljana Marshes is a protected wetland area where visitors can go bird watching or take a leisurely stroll. For the more adventurous, the nearby Triglav National Park offers plenty of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.
If you’re traveling to Ljubljana by air, the closest international airport is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU). From there, you can rent a car and drive to the city, which takes about 30 minutes.
At the end of your road trip, Ljubljana is the perfect place to explore and experience the best of Slovenia. With its diverse attractions, culture, and stunning scenery, Ljubljana is sure to make your Slovenia Road Trip a memorable one.
Slovenia Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Ljubljana
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End:
Ljubljana
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Distance:
853 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating 7-day Road Trip through Slovenia, a hidden gem in the heart of Europe. Covering approximately 853 kilometers, this journey takes you from the cultural buzz of Ljubljana to the serene vistas of Bled, through the wine-rich region of Nova Gorica, the historical treasures of Novo Mesto, to the maritime charm of Piran, and ends with the unique allure of Maribor.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Ljubljana: The picturesque capital offers a blend of rich history and modern culture, featuring the enchanting Ljubljana Castle, Dragon Bridge, and the vibrant banks of the Ljubljanica River.
- Bled: This alpine town boasts the fairy-tale Bled Castle perched above a glacial lake, the serene Church of the Assumption on Bled Island, and the opportunity for a traditional 'pletna' boat ride.
- Nova Gorica: Situated on the border with Italy, it's a gateway to the verdant Vipava Valley, known for its boutique wineries, and the nearby dramatic Kozjak Waterfall.
- Piran: Stroll through the narrow streets of this coastal town, which is a testament to its Venetian heritage, and climb the walls of Piran for a stunning sunset over the Adriatic.
- Novo Mesto: Discover the region's archaeological wonders, including the prehistoric artifacts at the Dolenjski Museum and the nearby UNESCO-listed heritage of the Pleterje Charterhouse monastery.
- Maribor: Visit the Guinness World Record-holding Old Vine House to see the oldest producing vine in the world, and explore the city's thriving arts scene and annual festivals.
Best Time to Go:
Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is the ideal time for a Road Trip in Slovenia, with pleasant temperatures and lush landscapes. Summer offers the most vibrant atmosphere, with numerous cultural events and outdoor activities.
Potential Risks:
Be aware of mountainous terrain that can lead to sudden weather shifts. It's advisable to monitor local weather forecasts and Road conditions, especially when driving through the Julian Alps or other high-altitude regions.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Slovenia's compact size means that you can breakfast in the mountains and dine by the sea on the same day.
- The country is one of the world's most water-rich, featuring numerous lakes, rivers, and a short but charming coastline.
- Slovenia was the first country in the world to be declared a green destination based on the Green Destinations Criteria, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
A good choice for:
A Slovenia Road Trip is a journey through a tapestry of natural splendors, historical landmarks, and cultural festivities. It offers a perfect balance for enthusiasts of both outdoor adventures and urban exploration. With Slovenia's well-maintained Roads and the country's commitment to green tourism, travelers can look forward to a memorable and responsible travel experience.
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