Slovenia City Breaks

A guide to Slovenia

Roughly half the size of Switzerland and with a little over two million residents, Slovenia is a tiny country with a huge personality. It is fast becoming one of the most popular Eastern European countries to visit, due to its rugged beaches, majestic mountains, hillside vineyards, sweeping plains covered in sunflowers, amazing Gothic churches, castles, palaces, and warm, welcoming people. What’s more, the country is relatively inexpensive compared to other European countries, making it ideal for a cheap weekend away. Short trips in Slovenia tend to focus on the capital city, Ljubljana.

Relax in the medieval streets of Ljubljana

Ljubljana is an enchanting city of cobbled streets, medieval and modern architecture and a welcoming, liberal atmosphere. The heart of the city is the medieval old town, featuring picturesque squares, a beautiful cathedral, 12th century castle and many quaint cafes and small restaurants in which to unwind and watch the world go by. With a great nightlife scene including theatre, jazz, opera and classical music venues, as well as plenty of clubbing spots for younger holidaymakers, there's plenty to keep you busy, and culture-lovers can visit art galleries and museums during the day, or explore the daily market and reasonably-priced shops.

Get out and explore the culture, sights and scenery

Ljubljana is not the only city to visit in this wonderful country, however; Maribor, located in the heart of Slovenia’s wine-making region, is the country’s second-largest city and also makes an excellent choice for a few days away. With a strong sense of Slovenian culture, Maribor is a great for giving the feel for Slovenia in a way that only a smaller city can. Popular tourist spots here include the Gothic Maribor Castle and Renaissance-style Maribor Town Hall. Additionally, Kranj lies 20km north-west of Ljubljana and boasts a picturesque medieval Old Town, an impressive 14th century church and a mid-16th century castle. Kranj is a sedate, laid-back city and makes for an excellent stop off for anybody on a driving holiday around the country, with other fantastic smaller cities including Celje, Novo Mesto, Velenje.