Why Slovenia needs to be on your list!

This small but beautiful country, bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, is truly one of the most underrated destinations in Europe.  With dramatic mountains, vibrant green valleys, crystal clear lakes and rivers, castles, storybook towns, forests, wine regions and even a sliver of sparkling Adriatic Coastline, Slovenia truly has it all!

On this 10 day / 9 night itinerary, we’ll experience the best of Slovenia, combining history, culture, beautiful scenery and outdoor pursuits where you can breathe in the fresh mountain air and connect with nature.  Not to mention the Slovenian cuisine! With a couple of free afternoons to explore on your own, this trip is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

‍SUMMARY:

Day 1:  Arrival to Ljubljana and transfer to Bled

Day 2:  Bled Lake and Vintgar Gorge

Day 3:  Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj and the Julian Alps

Day 4:  From the Alps to the Slovenian Coast

Day 5:  Explore Piran and free afternoon

Day 6:  From the coast to Maribor

Day 7:  Maribor and the Drava River

Day 8:  Explore Ptuj and travel to Ljubljana

Day 9:  Guided tour of Ljubljana and free afternoon

Day 10:  Departure

DETAILS:‍ ‍

Day 1: Arrival to Ljubljana

Upon arrival at the Ljubljana airport, meet your English-speaking tour guide and transfer to Bled (approximately 30 minute drive).  Drop off your luggage and check in at one of Slovenia’s most beautiful hotels on Lake Bled.  You will then have free time to explore Bled, take a walk along the lakeshore, or relax at a local café.  In the evening, we will meet for our welcome dinner where you will enjoy traditional Slovenian cuisine in a beautiful setting by the lake.

(D)

Overnight stay in Bled

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Day 2:  Bled Lake & Vintgar Gorge‍ ‍

After breakfast, we will explore the enchanting Lake Bled.  We’ll start with a traditional pletna boat ride to an island in the center of the lake to visit the charming Church of the Assumption.  Our tour then continues with a visit to the iconic Bled Castle, dramatically perched on a cliff above the lake, offering panoramic views of the mountains.  We will then take a break for lunch followed by a tasting of the famous Bled cream cake (kremsnita).  Heavenly layers of custard and cream in between a flaky puff pastry--this dessert is not to be missed!  In the afternoon, we will head to Vintgar Gorge and walk along the wooden pathways.  This canyon, which is one mile long and 820 feet deep, was carved by the Radovna river.  As we walk along the gorge walls, we’ll admire the crystal-clear waters, rapids and waterfalls.  Afterwards, we’ll transfer back to our resort on Lake Bled for a free evening.

(B, L)

Overnight stay in Bled 

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Day 3:  Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj and the Julian Alps‍ ‍

A full-day alpine experience begins with a visit to Triglav National Park and Lake Bohinj.  Covering much of the Julian Alps, this is Slovenia’s only national park and a paradise for nature lovers.  We’ll start with a scenic hike (approximately 2 hours) through the Mostnica Gorge, where the trail follows turquoise waters, carved pools and unique rock formations.  This hike is suitable for most fitness levels. After the hike, we’ll take a cable car ride up to Vogel Mountain for spectacular views of the Julian Alps and Lake Bohinj.  At the summit, we’ll enjoy a traditional mountain lunch at a cozy hut.  In the afternoon, we will stop at a local beekeeping farm for a honey tasting and insight into Slovenia’s rich apicultural heritage.  Slovenia is the world capital of beekeeping.  It has its own breed of honeybee and is home to around 90,000 beekeepers!

(B, L)

Overnight stay in Bled

Day 4:  From the Alps to the Slovenian Coast‍ ‍

After breakfast, we’ll travel across the scenic Vrsic Pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.  The journey continues through the picturesque Soca Valley, with several short stops to admire and take photos of the turquoise river and alpine landscapes.  We’ll arrive in the town of Kobarid and explore the Kobarid Museum which showcases the history of the Isonzo Front during World War I.  Afterwards, we’ll stop for lunch and a visit to Planika Dairy to learn about traditional cheese production and a tasting of local cheeses.

This afternoon, we’ll discover the beauty of the Soča Valley on foot! This guided hike takes you along one of the valley’s most picturesque trails, starting near the Boka Waterfall – the highest in Slovenia – and continuing along forest paths and river viewpoints.

During the 1–1.5 hour walk, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the emerald Soča River, hidden cascades, and the surrounding Julian Alps. The trail is suitable for most fitness levels and offers plenty of opportunities to take photos, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and connect with nature at a slower pace.

We’ll then continue to Slovenia’s coastal region and settle into our hotel in Piran.

(B, L)

Overnight in Piran

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Day 5:  Exploring Piran and Free Afternoon ‍ ‍

After breakfast, we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of Piran.  This charming coastal town on the Adriatic Sea is known for its medieval architecture, narrow winding streets, and beautiful seaside views. The Tartini Square, named after the famous violinist and composer Giuseppe Tartini, is the town’s centerpiece, surrounded by Venetian-style buildings. Piran’s old town, historic churches, and scenic harbor make it a picturesque destination.

The afternoon is free for you to relax by the sea, indulge in a massage at our hotel, or enjoy local cafes and shops along the promenade.

(B)

Overnight in Piran

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Day 6:  From the Coast to Maribor‍ ‍

In the morning, we’ll depart from the Slovenian coast and travel toward Maribor, Slovenia’s wine capital.  Our first stop will be the spectacular Postojna Cave, one of the largest and most famous karst caves in Europe.  We’ll explore by foot and also ride the underground train to admire the stunning stalactites, stalagmites and underground passages.  Afterwards, we will stop for photos of the Predjama Castle, dramatically built into a cliff.  We’ll then enjoy lunch in Postojna before continuing our journey to Maribor.

(B, L)

Overnight in Maribor

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Day 7:  Maribor and the Drava River‍ ‍

We’ll start our day with a traditional raft ride on the Drava River, offering views of Maribor’s riverside landscapes and surrounding hills.  Lunch will be served on board with local specialties and wine.  In the afternoon, we’ll take a walking tour of Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city.  We’ll explore the city’s historic streets, the main square and landmarks such as the Maribor Cathedral.  Then we’ll head to the Old Vine House, home to the world’s oldest grapevine.  Over 400 years old, this vine still produces grapes!  Here we will take time to enjoy a tasting of local wines.

(B, L)

Overnight in Maribor

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Day 8:  Explore Ptuj and travel to Ljubljana‍ ‍

After breakfast, we’ll travel to Ptuj, one of Slovenia’s oldest towns, known for its rich history and charming old town.  We’ll stroll through its historic center, rich in Roman heritage, and enjoy lunch with a wine pairing at a local winery.  In the afternoon, our journey continues to Ljubljana.  We’ll check into our hotel, located in the heart of the city, and the evening is free to relax or explore on your own.

(B, L)

Overnight in Ljubljana

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Day 9:  Guided Tour of Ljubljana and Free Afternoon‍ ‍

Today we’ll discover Ljubljana, known as Europe’s Green Capital for its green spaces and sustainable initiatives like the car-free city center.  Ljubljana, Slovenia’s largest city, has a charming old town and vibrant cultural scene. The Ljubljana River flows through the city, lined with lively cafes and beautiful bridges like the Dragon Bridge and Triple Bridge.  We’ll enjoy a guided city tour including Preseren Square and the Central Market.  We’ll also take the funicular to Ljubljana Castle where we can explore the historic rooms, panoramic terraces and learn about the city’s history.

In the afternoon, you will have free time for personal exploration or relaxation.  You can choose to stroll along the riverside, visit local cafes or shops, relax in a park, or enjoy one of the city’s museums and galleries.

This evening we’ll meet for our farewell dinner and make a toast to friendships and memories made.  This will be a fun traditional folklore dinner, celebrating Slovenian music, food and culture!

(B, D)

Overnight in Ljubljana

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Day 10:  Departure‍ ‍

Unfortunately, every good thing must come to an end.  After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the Ljubljana airport for your departure flight where you will leave Slovenia with memories that will last a lifetime.

(B)

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(Photos of accommodations shown below)

Nights 1 – 3:  Hotel Park

Hotel Park, located on Lake Bled, offers beautiful lake and castle views.  The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to restaurants, cafes and shopping as well as the promenade of Lake Bled where you can go for a stroll or sit and relax.  Hotel amenities include an indoor thermal pool and wellness and spa facilities.

Nights 4 & 5:  Hotel Piran

This boutique waterfront hotel, located in the heart of the old town, offers a prime location and great views of the Adriatic Sea.  Enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail at the rooftop bar with beautiful views of the sea and the city.  The hotel also offers an onsite spa where you can book a massage or other treatment.  Numerous restaurants are located within walking distance from the hotel. 

Nights 6 & 7:  Hotel City Maribor

This modern-design hotel is located on the Drava River and is just a 5-minute walk to the old town and main attractions of Maribor.  An onsite restaurant, located on the top floor, offers indoor dining as well as an outdoor terrace with views of the Drava River.  The hotel is conveniently located near restaurants and shopping.

Nights 8 & 9:  Hotel BB Ljubljana Park

Surrounded by parks and greenery, Hotel BB offers an oasis of tranquility in the urban heart, perfect for those seeking a balance between city life and contact with nature.  The central location of Hotel BB allows you to discover Ljubljana, known as the European Green Capital, on foot.  You can easily reach the Old City with its main cultural and historical attractions and the stunning Ljubljana Castle.

Trip Price - $3,580 (double occupancy)

Single Room Supplement:  $950 (This is to have your own room without sharing/having a roommate, not for upgraded rooms)

Deposit: $1,075 (30% of trip price)

Trip Booking Deadline:  March 1, 2026

Final Balance Due - July 13, 2026

Cancellation policy: Only 100% refundable only within two weeks of paying your deposit.

INCLUSIONS

Itinerary as described with all entrance fees and costs for all activities 

All breakfasts at hotels

6 lunches at local restaurants

2 dinners at local restaurants (Welcome dinner and Farewell dinner)

9 nights accommodations at 3 & 4 star hotels

Arrival and departure transfers between the airport / hotel

Private ground transportation for the group

Local guide accompanying the group

Gratuities for local guide and driver

EXCLUSIONS

International airfare 

Any meals or beverages not listed in Inclusions 

Travel Insurance

The itinerary officially starts on Sunday, September 20, so you'll need to depart the U.S. on Saturday, September 19 for an overnight flight to Ljubljana.  Return will be on Tuesday, September 29 out of Ljubljana.

For travelers in the Washington DC / Baltimore MD area, below is the suggested flight on Lufthansa.  The price as of February 6, 2026 for Economy Basic is $1,277 (includes one checked bag and one carry-on bag).

Depart Saturday, September 19 (arrival on Sunday, September 20) 

Lufthansa flight numbers: LH 417 / LH 1458 

Total duration:  12h 10m

Depart Washington (IAD) – 3:25 pm

Arrive Frankfurt (FRA) – 5:30 am 

Layover in Frankfurt – 2h 50m

Depart Frankfurt (FRA) – 8:20 am

Arrive Ljubljana (LJU) – 9:35 am 

Return Tuesday, September 29 

Lufthansa light numbers: LH 1459 / LH 418

Total duration:  11h 40m

Depart Ljubljana (LJU) – 9:55 am

Arrive FRA – 11:50 am 

Layover in Frankfurt – 1h 50m

Depart Frankfurt (FRA) – 1:10 pm

Arrive Washington (IAD) – 4:05 pm

Note:  The layover in Frankfurt on the return flight is only 1 hour 50 minutes.  Since we won’t be changing airlines and our luggage will be checked all the way through, this could work.  Alternatively, you could opt for a longer layover and take the flight below from Frankfurt to IAD.

Flight LH 9252

Layover in Frankfurt – 5h 20m

Depart Frankfurt (FRA) – 5:10 pm

Arrive Washington (IAD) – 8:00 pm

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months.  A visa is not necessary for U.S. citizens entering Slovenia (for up to 90 days).

• The EU is developing a travel information and authorization system called ETIAS.  It plans to launch in late 2026, so most likely we will not be affected.  I will let you know if this changes.

• The official language in Slovenia is Slovene, however, you will find English speaking people in larger cities and tourist areas.

• The official currency of Slovenia is the Euro (EUR)

• Credit and debit cards are common in most shops, restaurants and hotels (Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted).  It is advisable to carry some Euros for small purchases and tipping.

• ATMs are easy to locate in Slovenia.  They are common throughout the country, especially in tourist areas.

• Electrical outlets use the Type F (Schuko) plug adaptor.  This is the main plug type in Slovenia, featuring two round pins with earth clips on the side.

• The time zone in Slovenia is Central European Standard Time.  In September, Slovenia will be 5 hours ahead of Washington DC.

• Tipping in Slovenia is appreciated for good service but not obligatory.  For tourists, 10% in restaurants for good service is common.  Small tips for hotel staff (bellhops and housekeeping) are good gestures, typically given in cash.

• It’s safe to drink the tap water in Slovenia.

• Slovenia has a diverse climate with three main types:  Alpine in the mountains, Continental in the interior, and Mediterranean on the coast.  In September, average temperatures are as follows:
  
  Ljubljana & Maribor – high 73 F / low 54 F
  Bled – high 68 F / low 50 F
  Piran – high 77 F / low 57 F