Highlights of Slovenia: Bled, Bovec, Ljubljana, & More - 9 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Ljubljana, Transfer to Lake Bled

Welcome to Slovenia! Meet your transfer at the Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport to make your way to the fairytale town of Bled.

Bled's tourism industry dates all the way back to the 1800s, when Swiss Arnold Rikli opened a health facility on the lake, attracted to its long swimming season and beautiful scenery. He based his treatment plans on "water, air, and light," with key tenets of regular walks and swims, nude sunbathing, and a vegetarian diet. 

Today, Bled is popular with honeymooners and adventure-seekers alike. Whether you opt for hikes, history, or a lakeside happy hour on one of the hotel decks, you're sure to find something that suits your travel style. 

Day 2: Explore Lake Bled

Explore the scenic shores of Lake Bled, where you can choose between a plethora of shorter hikes through gorges or up to scenic viewpoints. One of the stars of the region is just 2.5 miles (4 km) from town: the popular Vintgar Gorge, with its craggy walkways and waterfalls.

You can also climb up to Bled Castle and tour its blacksmith's workshop, wine cellar, and printing press before enjoying a traditional meal in the restaurant. Row or paddleboard across the placid waters to the fairytale island at the lake's center and climb up the church's 99 steps, where legend has it the ringing of the bell can grant your wishes. If you're up for more, cycle on side roads through typical Slovenian countryside, visit a local beekeeper, or simply sunbathe on the lakeside with a slice of the famous Bled cream cake.

Day 3: Drive from Lake Bled to Bovec

After breakfast, you'll check out of your hotel and get back on the road. It's time to change locations and drive across Slovenia's highest pass, the Vršič Pass (5,285 feet / 1,611 m) in the central Julian Alps. Admire the nearby limestone rock as you make your way up the winding road, with potential detours to several view-filled walks of varying lengths, including a stroll into the region's history on paths built by Russian prisoners of war.

After you've stretched your legs, have a coffee with a scenic mountain view and a typical alpine lunch in a cozy hut. In the afternoon, drive to the Soča Valley to explore its hidden spots, including WWI forts, river gorges, and mountain town of Bovec, where you can relax in a microbrewery when you settle in for the night.

Driving time: 2 hours
Driving distance: 54 miles (87 km)

Day 4: Free Day in Soča Valley

Enjoy a day on the Soča River, which is also called the Emerald River for its bright colors. Explore on a raft, zipline, or canyoning excursion, or just take a leisurely swim in its scenic pools. If you prefer to stay dry, walk along the banks or bike the area, with nearby destinations including the WWI Museum in Kobarid.

You can also cast your rod in search of the famous Soča trout, sought after by fishermen from all over the world. Or, try it for yourself without the effort at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Drive from Bovec to Goriška Brda

After breakfast in Bovec, you'll have the chance to discover more hidden spots on the Soča River as you drive south towards Slovenia's Goriška Brda wine country. 

Dotted with family vineyard estates, tiny churches, and cypress trees, the region has earned its nickname of "Slovenian Tuscany." Climb a village tower to enjoy the best view from the Slovenian Alps to the Adriatic Sea, bike through the hillside, or visit a winemaker or two (or four).

When you're ready to retire for the evening, try dinner at one of the region's local inns and sample the local produce alongside specialty cured meats and cheeses. For the ultimate dining experience, visit Ana Roš, voted World's Best Female Chef in 2017, with a reservation at House Franko restaurant. Fun fact: Ana's husband is the sommelier!

Driving time: 1.5 hours
Driving distance: 43 miles (70 km)

Day 6: Drive from Goriška Brda to Škocjan Caves & Piran

After breakfast, it's time to visit the Slovenian Karst region and the Adriatic coast. Go underground with a stroll through the stunning canyons of the limestone Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boardwalks will lead you through the specialized ecosystem of one of the world's largest known underground caverns. The caves are believed to have been visited by humans drawn to their majesty since the Iron Age. 

In the afternoon, continue driving towards the Adriatic Coast and check in to your hotel in Piran. Piran's old city walls, Venetian-style architecture, and stony beaches are filled with history and charm. Get lost among the picturesque narrow streets and squares and enjoy the evening in one of Piran's many seafood restaurants, with a casual drink and fresh seafood before you retire.

Driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Driving distance:  88 miles (124 km)

Day 7: Free Day in Piran

Spend the day getting lost among the picturesque narrow streets and squares of Piran. Relax at one of the city's many spas, which are especially known for their mud and salt treatments. Or go directly to the source and walk through the salt pans of  Sečovlje Salina Nature Park.

Enjoy the evening on the Adriatic at one of Piran's many seafood restaurants.

Overnight: Piran

Day 8: Drive from Piran to Ljubljana

Return to Ljubljana in the morning, then spend your day exploring the city. Guided tours are available if you'd like an inside perspective on Ljubljana's history and culture or secret food spots. You can also explore on your own.  

Start by strolling on the main street along the banks of the Ljubljanica River, stopping in whatever small boutique, outdoor cafe, or wine bar terrace strikes your fancy as you breathe in the fresh air of one of the continent's greenest cities. Many of the restaurants offer a multi-course prix fixe lunch menu, which is perfect for a long, leisurely lunch. You can also get onto the river itself with a canoe or stand-up paddleboard.

You'll notice the legacy of modern architect Jože Plečnik around the city at the National Library, Central Market, Triple Bridge, and Plečnik's own home turned museum, all of which sit under the watchful eyes of the city's many signature dragons.

Day 9: Depart Ljubljana

Depending on your departure time, you can visit a local museum or simply sit by the riverbank, relax, and enjoy an ice cream before your flight. 

Driving time: (Ljubljana to the airport) 30 minutes