5 Best Sights in Slovenia

Bled's famed lake is nestled within a rim of mountains and surrounded by forests, with a castle on one side and a promenade beneath stately chestnut trees on the other. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop along the promenade while swans glide on the water, creating the ultimate romantic scene. On a minuscule island in the middle of the lake, the lovely Cerkov svetega Martina (St. Martin's Pilgrimage Church) stands within a circle of trees. Take a ride over to the island on a pletna, a traditional covered boat.

Lake Bohinj is the quieter, wilder, and prettier sister of Bled and lies entirely within the Triglav National Park. The entire length of the north shore is rugged and accessible only by foot. At an altitude of 1,715 feet, the lake is surrounded on three sides by the steep walls of the Julian Alps. The altitude means the temperature of the water—even in August—rarely rises above a brisk but still swimmable 74°F. The small village of Ribčev Laz, on the eastern end of the lake, functions as the de facto town center, where you'll find a grocery store, post office, currency exchange, an ATM, and the tourist information center. On the western shore lies the remote village of Ukanc, anchored by the Hotel Zlatorog, a campsite, and a few small shops. Just to the north and east of Ribčev Laz are the tiny hamlets of Stara Fužina, Studor, and Srednja Vas.

Covering some 4% of Slovenia's entire landmass, Triglav National Park is the ideological and spiritual heart of the country. The iconic three peaks of Triglav (the highest point in the country) are found on Slovenia's coat of arms and its flag, placing this dreamland of gorges, caves, waterfalls, rivers, and forests front and center for the nation. Winter sees locals and visitors alike head here in search of skiing and other snow-based activities, while the warmer months are perfect for amateur and experienced climbers and hikers. Mountain huts dot the landscape offering affordable accommodations for those looking to wander the meadows. Slovenia's only national park, Triglav contains everything that makes Slovenian nature magnificent, all within 840 square km (324 square miles) of magic.

An idyllic way to while away a day, Ljubljana's riverside is packed with cafés and restaurants that are perfect for people-watching. Prices have skyrocketed recently, but you're paying for location and atmosphere above all else.

Slovenes love to get out and about, so don’t be surprised to see whole families packing the hiking and biking trails around the city on the weekend. Less than a mile from downtown Ljubljana, Golovec is a popular choice, with the path starting close to the Botanical Garden. The views from the top are fantastic.