Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital and largest city, is set on the magnificent Ljubljanica River that gently meanders through the Old Town, providing a picturesque backdrop to the quaint cafes and tempting restaurants that line the banks. This tranquil setting belies a dynamic and fast-growing capital packed with compelling sights and a lively nightlife bolstered by its vibrant student population. Ljubljana is known for its many fascinating museums. These include the National Museum of Slovenia, displaying historical exhibitions, and the Museum of Modern Art, home to 20th-century Slovene paintings and sculptures. While seminal Slovenian architect Joze Plecnik shaped the city’s overall appearance, Ljubljana has also been heavily influenced by the Hungarians, Austrians and Italians. These eclectic influences permeate many aspects of city life, including its food, drink and its myriad architectural styles.
Bovec is a beautiful town set within the Triglav National Park, in the enthralling setting of the Soca Valley. Wedged between the Soca River and the Julian Alps, it’s no surprise that the town has been nicknamed the ‘adventure capital of Slovenia’ for the multitude of activities it affords. Enjoy idyllic kayaking or rafting on bright turquoise waters, explore myriad mountain biking routes or go skiing in winter. For a more leisurely way to soak in the views, enjoy a ride in the Kanin Cable Car, from which you’ll be able to see all the way to the Adriatic Sea on a clear day; or drive up to the Mangart Saddle for a sunrise (or sunset) over the spectacular Laghi di Fusine (Fusine Lakes, which belong to Italy).
Appropriately dubbed 'Europe in Miniature', the tiny central European country of Slovenia offers dramatic snow-capped alps, exquisite Mediterranean coastline, striking emerald-green lakes and rivers, historic churches, and medieval castles that look like they're straight from a fairy tale. Travellers seeking some exhilarating outdoor adventure in this natural wonderland will be spoiled for choice, with plenty of skiing, cycling, hiking, canyoning, rafting, ballooning, caving and boating on offer. Suppose all this sounds like a bit too much activity for your liking. In that case, you can escape to the coast to sunbathe on the beaches overlooking the Adriatic or head to the capital of Ljubljana, where you can cafe hop along the river bank and explore countless museums.
