Discover Nearby Gems: 5 Half Day Trips Just an Hour from Ljubljana

1. Bled (55 km from Ljubljana)

Nestled amidst the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is a postcard-perfect destination and the reason many people come to this part of Slovenia. The iconic Bled Island, crowned by a Baroque church of the Assumption of Mary, is a must-visit. Rent a traditional "pletna" boat to reach the island and ring the wishing bell. 

If you love castles, a visit to the Bled castle is a must. Perched high above the lake, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Take the marked hiking trail to get to the castle or drive the asphalt road leading to the castle walls.

For a more dramatic overhead view of the Lake — the one you see in all the pictures — hikers can take the trail up a steep forest paths to the Ojstrica and Osojnica viewpoints over the lake, two of the best trails for hiking at Lake Bled though definitely more moderate to difficult hikes. NOT SUITABLE for flip-flops!

Adrenaline junky? Zipline Dolinka - The Longest Zipline in Europe is the thing for you. 
Did you know Bled has thermal waters? Morning family fun in  Wellness Živa will make everyone happy!

Insider tip: don’t forget to try the famous Bled cream cake!

Feeling overwhelmed? Let us create a perfect day in Bled for you - contact us!

2. Kamnik (23 km from Ljubljana)

Kamnik is a delightful medieval town nestled at the foot of the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, offering a blend of history and natural beauty. The town's heart, Šutna Street and Glavni Trg (Main Square), are lined with well-preserved buildings from the Middle Ages. 

Take a stroll along the Šutna street and discover numerous attractions, including the parish church of Mary Immaculate with a separate Gothic spire, the Sadnikar museum and the birthplaces of many renowned inhabitants of Kamnik.

There are several fun things to do in and around Kamnik but by far our favorite is the Arboretum Volčji Potok. It was opened to the public in 1952 by the University of Ljubljana, and features flowers and trees from all over the world as well as several gardens with just native Slovenian species.

The Arboretum is known for their spring flower shows, and is quite popular with young families — kids love running around on the expansive lawn with giant whale sculptures that appear to be diving in and out of the ground.

There are also several castles and a monastery to explore around Kamnik, and two unique healing and health resorts: the Terme Snovik health resort has fabulous pools and wellness services for the whole family, and the Tunjice Healing Grove is renowned for its beneficial energies.

Insider tip: There is a direct train taking you from Ljubljana's railway station to Kamnik's old town.

Kamnik is also part of our Velika planina private half day tour

3. Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle (54 km from Ljubljana)

Postojna Cave is one of the most famous karst caves in the world. The guided tour (included in the ticket price) takes you through a mesmerizing underground world of stalactites and stalagmites and starts with a 2km open train ride through the cave itself - perfect for the little explorers. 

Postojna cave is the home of the baby dragons, its where small translucent lizard-like creatures called olms live, will have you fixated to see one with your own eyes.

Nearby, you can visit the impressive Predjama Castle, built into a cliff. It is the world’s largest cave castle and the enchanting story behind the brave knight who built it is the stuff of fairytales. But once you see it perched in the middle of a cliff nearly 400 feet high, it’s so much more.

The rebellious knight Erazem of Predjama built this unique fortress 800 years ago amidst a network of caves and secret tunnels, which you can tour today along with the castle and surrounding park.

There are different tours and tour combinations you can take, including the castle, cave, park, and other interesting local sights.

4. Škofja Loka and Kranj (36 km from Ljubljana)

Škofja Loka is a beautifully preserved medieval town that offers a rich historical experience. One of the main attractions is the Škofja Loka Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the town. The castle houses a museum that showcases the region’s history, culture, and art. As you wander through the town, you’ll come across the Capuchin Bridge, the oldest preserved bridge in Slovenia, offering picturesque views of the Selška Sora River. The Church of St. Jacob is another notable site, with its impressive architecture and historical significance. Don’t miss the charming main square, where you can enjoy a coffee and soak in the town’s medieval ambiance

Kranj is another fantastic destination, known for its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Kokra River Canyon, located right in the middle of the old town, is a unique natural attraction that offers scenic walking paths and stunning views. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Tunnels under the old town, which were used during World War II and now serve as a fascinating historical site. The Brdo Castle and its surrounding park provide a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and walking paths. For a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding area, hike up to Šmarjetna Gora Hill. The main square in Kranj is also a lively spot, with cafes, shops, and historical buildings

Insider Tip: consider starting early to make the most of your time. Both towns are easily accessible by car or direct public transport. Wear comfortable shoes, as both towns are best explored on foot. 

5. Velika planina (35 km from Ljubljana)

Velika Planina is a stunning alpine plateau located in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, known for its traditional herdsmen’s settlement and breathtaking views. One of the main attractions is the herdsmen’s huts, which are unique in their architecture and offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life. These huts are particularly vibrant during the summer months when herdsmen bring their cattle to graze on the plateau. The Preskar Museum, housed in one of these huts, provides fascinating insights into the history and culture of the herdsmen.

Velika Planina is not just about scenic beauty (which is truly captivating); it also offers a range of activities. You can take a cable car ride from Kamniška Bistrica to the plateau, which is an experience in itself, providing stunning aerial views. For a more immersive experience, join a guided tour to learn about the herdsmen’s traditions, visit the Preskar Museum, and explore the Veternica Cave. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Trnič cheese, a traditional hard cheese made by the herdsmen.

Insider tip: The cable car operates regularly, but it’s a good idea to check the schedule in advance. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a jacket, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. There are a few places to eat , such as the Zeleni Rob Inn, where you can enjoy traditional Slovenian dishes while taking in the stunning views!

Click here to book your Velika planina private tour with us!