Southeastern Slovenia Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture of Southeastern Slovenia. Plan your trip to this charming region in Central Europe with our detailed guide.


Introduction to Southeastern Slovenia

Southeastern Slovenia is a region located in Central Europe, in the eastern part of Slovenia. It is known for its scenic beauty, diverse cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. The region is perfect for those who want to explore off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of Slovenia. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture of Southeastern Slovenia.

List of Places to Visit in Southeastern Slovenia

Southeastern Slovenia has a plethora of attractions that are worth visiting. We have compiled a list of the most popular places to visit in the region.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ptuj Castle: A medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century.
  • The Old Synagogue in Maribor: The oldest synagogue in Slovenia, built in the 14th century.
  • Regional Museum of Celje: A museum showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of the Celje region.
  • Kostanjevica Monastery: A former monastery that now serves as a cultural center and is home to the tombs of the last members of the French royal family.

Natural Attractions of Southeastern Slovenia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Logarska Valley: A picturesque valley in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, featuring hiking trails and waterfalls.
  • Lake Bled: A postcard-perfect lake with a small island and a castle.
  • Grad Kozjak: A castle perched on a cliff overlooking the Kozjak waterfall.
  • Škocjan Caves: One of the largest underground canyons in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeastern Slovenia

Southeastern Slovenia is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The region boasts numerous hiking and biking trails, offering breathtaking views of the countryside. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Snežnik Castle Loop: A 37-kilometer circular route that takes you through the forests and meadows of the Snežnik plateau.
  • Ljubljana Marshes: A flat and easy trail that is perfect for beginners and families.
  • Pohorje MTB Tour: A challenging mountain bike tour that takes you through the forests and hills of Pohorje.

Best Things to Do in Southeastern Slovenia: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Southeastern Slovenia offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors. Some of the best things to do in the region include:

  • Wine Tasting in Jeruzalem: Taste the local wines of the Jeruzalem wine region and learn about the wine-making process.
  • Zipline in Cerkno: Experience the thrill of ziplining over the Idrijca River valley.
  • Rafting in Soča River: Navigate the rapids of the Soča River, known for its crystal-clear water and stunning scenery.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soar over the countryside and admire the views from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southeastern Slovenia

For those who want to explore the region thoroughly, we have put together a week-long itinerary that covers the best attractions and activities in Southeastern Slovenia.

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Ptuj Castle and the Old Town of Ptuj
Day 2 Visit the Škocjan Caves and Vipava Valley
Day 3 Hike in the Logarska Valley
Day 4 Wine Tasting in Jeruzalem and Visit Maribor
Day 5 Visit Lake Bled and Bled Castle
Day 6 Cycling in the Pohorje Mountains
Day 7 Rafting in the Soča River and Hot Air Balloon Ride

Food and Drink Scene of Southeastern Slovenia

The cuisine of Southeastern Slovenia is influenced by the neighboring regions of Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Prekmurje Layer Cake: A traditional cake made with layers of dough, poppy seeds, walnuts, and cottage cheese.
  • Idrija Žlikrofi: Small dumplings filled with potato, bacon, and onion, served with a meat sauce.
  • Belokranjska Pogača: A round bread with a crispy crust, topped with pumpkin seeds, cheese, and garlic.
  • Kranjska Klobasa: A Slovenian sausage made with pork and flavored with garlic and salt.

Local Beverages

  • Wines: Southeastern Slovenia is known for its quality wines, especially white wines like Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.
  • Beer: Laško and Union are two popular Slovenian beer brands.
  • Schnapps: Fruit schnapps, like pear and plum, are a popular Slovenian spirit.

Where to Stay in Southeastern Slovenia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southeastern Slovenia offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best options include:

  • Hotel Garni Oštrc: A 4-star hotel located in the center of Ptuj.
  • Hotel Bellevue: A 4-star hotel with panoramic views of Lake Bled.
  • Youth Hostel Celje: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of the city.
  • Guesthouse Pri Kapucinu: A family-run guesthouse in the picturesque town of Škofja Loka.

What to Buy in Southeastern Slovenia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southeastern Slovenia is known for its handicrafts, wines, and local food products. Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

  • Idrija Lace: A traditional lace-making technique from the town of Idrija.
  • Handmade Pottery: Pottery-making has a long tradition in the region.
  • Slovenian Honey: The honey from the beekeeping region of Prekmurje is considered some of the best in Europe.
  • Local Wines: Bring home a bottle of the region’s finest wines as a memento of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Southeastern Slovenia

Slovenia has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from neighboring countries like Austria, Italy, and Hungary. Some of the customs and traditions specific to Southeastern Slovenia include:

  • Ptuj Carnival: A colorful and joyous traditional carnival held in the town of Ptuj.
  • Kurentovanje: A pre-Lenten festival that celebrates the coming of spring.
  • Harvest Festival: A celebration of the autumn harvest, with traditional food, wine, and music.
  • Slivovitz Festival: A festival dedicated to the plum brandy, held annually in the town of Dobrna.

Best Time to Visit Southeastern Slovenia

The best time to visit Southeastern Slovenia is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April or October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southeastern Slovenia

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Southeastern Slovenia:

Do:

  • Try the local food and wine.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Ask for permission before taking photographs of local people.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.
  • Smoke in public places.
  • Ignore traffic rules.
  • Touch or damage cultural artifacts.

Safety and Health

Southeastern Slovenia is a safe region for travelers. However, make sure to take the usual precautions, like not leaving your valuables unattended and staying alert in crowded areas.

Safety in Southeastern Slovenia

  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas.
  • Avoid walking alone in secluded areas at night.
  • Respect the local wildlife and don’t approach wild animals.
  • Check weather conditions before embarking on outdoor activities.

Health in Southeastern Slovenia

  • The tap water is safe to drink.
  • EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive medical treatment at reduced cost.
  • It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Southeastern Slovenia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southeastern Slovenia is well-connected to the rest of the country and Europe.

Airports Near Southeastern Slovenia

  • Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport: The largest airport in Slovenia, located near the capital city of Ljubljana.
  • Klagenfurt Airport: An international airport located in Austria, just over the border of Slovenia.

Bus Stations Near Southeastern Slovenia

  • Maribor Bus Station: The main bus station in Maribor, with connections to other major cities in Slovenia and Europe.
  • Celje Bus Station: The bus station in Celje, with connections to nearby towns and villages.

Other Options

  • Train: Slovenia has a well-developed railway network, with connections to other major cities in Europe.
  • Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the region at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Southeastern Slovenia

The easiest way to get around Southeastern Slovenia is by car. However, if you prefer to use public transportation, there are buses and trains that connect the major towns and cities in the region.

Where to Go Next from Southeastern Slovenia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southeastern Slovenia is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Slovenia and neighboring countries. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Ljubljana: The charming capital city of Slovenia, with a stunning old town and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Zagreb: The capital city of Croatia, located just a few hours from Southeastern Slovenia.
  • Friuli-Venezia Giulia: An Italian region known for its picturesque towns and great food and wine.

Conclusion

Southeastern Slovenia is a region that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip to this charming part of Slovenia and discover its hidden gems. Don’t forget to try the local food and wine and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.



    Novo Mesto
    Ribnica
    Sevnica