Weather
August continues to bring the hot weather especially in the western plains and along the short coastline of the Adriatic, with daily averages ranging from 66 degrees Fahrenheit to 79 degrees. Inland around Ljubljana is a little cooler with lows of 57 and highs of 79 degrees, though short heat waves occur, temperatures sometimes spiking to 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
The high mountains remain comfortable at a daily average of 62 degrees. You can still expect afternoon thunderstorms in and around the capital and in the mountains, so pack your rain gear with both lighter layers (shorts and t-shirts) and warmer layers for those inevitable cooler days.
Crowds & Costs
August remains ever crowded as the weather is little changed from the month before, visitors flowing in for the sun, festivals, and popular attractions. Hotels fill up fast in the Bled and Lake Bohinj areas, the capital and in cities along the coast like Piran, so be sure to book in advance. You can find some respite in the eastern region of the country, however, like Celje, Žiče, Ptuj, Podsreda, and Styria wine country in and around Maribor.
Where to Go
If the crowds don’t deter you, head to the short coastline of the Adriatic Sea and explore the number of medieval seaside villages, from Portorož to Ankaran, stopping along the way in Piran, Izola, and Koper. The Karst region for cave exploration and Goriška Brda for wine make for popular next stops, followed by the ever attractive Triglav National Park, its rivers, mountains, and lakes offering something for everyone.
Beat the heat and head further north testing your driving skill through the Vršič Pass to the mountains and to Kranjska Gora. A classic next point of interest would be to spend some time in Lake Bled before ending your trip in Ljubljana. With cobblestoned streets and narrow alleys in its historic core, the charming capital offers plenty of art galleries, museums, cafés, and restaurants.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
While the weather is at its best and if you can handle the crowds, make your way to the beaches that dot Slovenia’s short coastline and explore the Slovenian Riviera. Visit lively Portorož for its beach lined with luxury resorts, shops, and great restaurants, or check out Piran and swim, sunbathe, and cycle along the promenade.
The pebbled beach of Izola is great for a swim in the surf and taking in a sunset in the late afternoon. Other great swimming options include the plethora of lakes and rivers that can be found throughout the country. Lake Bled and Bohinj are the country’s two most popular spots, their alpine waters just warm enough to swim in this time of year.
While in the area, hike the Vintar Gorge (just outside Lake Bled) along steep limestone cliffs and alpine streams toward Šum Waterfall. Ride the cable car up to Mount Vogel south of Lake Bohinj, keen hikers can carry on up to the summit for expansive views over the Julian Alps.
For a gentler, kid-friendly option, choose one of 15 trails and hike to the top of Šmarna Gora (just north of Ljubljana). Bonus, catch a sunrise from the summit with a coffee in hand and stellar views over the country and Kamnik-Savinja Alps.
The truly adventurous can rappel down waterfalls in the Soča Valley. Join a canyoning excursion and climb, hike, rappel, and swim the alpine cliffs and rivers for an exceptional experience. Or test your legs and mountain bike through the winding hairpin turns of the Vršič Pass in the Julian Alps.
Read this article for more hiking options. Additional ideas for outdoor fun are listed in the Top 5 Adventures in Slovenia.
Events in August
Festival Radovljica. One of Europe’s most important festivals of early classical music takes place over two weeks in August.
Fishermen’s Festival. The small fishing town of Izola celebrates its rich fishing culture with live music, sporting events, plenty of savory seafood, and cultural activities.
Pisana Loka. Over 10 days in late August, this arts festival stages music, film, theater, and children’s events.
Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen). An outdoor food festival that takes place every Friday.
Traveling to Slovenia in August? Check out these great itineraries.
Slovenia Cycling Adventure - 7 Days. Discover Slovenia's diverse natural beauty on this thrilling week-long cycling trip from the Julian Alps to wine country to the seaside. Take in unforgettable views on this challenging ride through stunning terrain. You'll climb up mountain passes and follow emerald green rivers in Triglav National Park, go wine tasting in the vineyards of Goriška Brda, and swim in the Adriatic Sea in historic Piran.
Discover the Slovenian Alps - 8 Days. Experience the diversity of the Slovenian Alps in this ultimate nature lovers tour. Take on a mix of serious hiking, white water rafting, kayaking, and even canyoning. Explore the vibrant city of Ljubljana and savor Slovenian food and wine on an adventure you won't soon forget.
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