Thinking of visiting Slovenia with kids?
Slovenia is a country of forests and mountains, the cleanest lakes and a wonderful seacoast.
It is a country that can surprise you a lot. Lakes Bled and Bohinj, Triglav National Park, Vrsic Pass, Soca river, the beautiful capital city Ljubljana, and the Adriatic coast are among the top places to visit in Slovenia.
Most likely, the first thing you will get to know is the country’s capital, Ljubljana. Surprisingly, Ljubljana was able to absorb all the good things that happened in the capitals: developed infrastructure, interesting architecture, rich cultural life, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
Another great city which is worth your attention is Maribor.
It has fantastic Maribor Castle built back in the 12th century, which first was an important trade centre, and then a cultural one. Novo Mesto is another city with beautiful views and fascinating tourist attractions on the list of Slovenia’s best things to do.
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Visiting Slovenia with Kids
Slovenia is a place that can become a fabulous family memory – a country of elves and fairies – greenery, silence and healing procedures. The country has a comfortable climate, which will definitely benefit both you and your children.
When you plan your trip to Slovenia, decide the mean of transport suitable for you the most. There are plenty of flights to Slovenia with competitive prices.
The roads are good, so a lot of the places in the country are easily accessible by car or train, and of course, you can always hire a car in Slovenia.
The locals have a wonderful attitude towards children – do not be surprised if the Slovenes come up to you on the street, look at your child with loving eyes, and present a gift to him. Also, you will find many fun activities for children, and generally, there is a lot to do in Slovenia.
21 Best Things to do and Places to Visit in Slovenia with Children
Travellers with kids frequently wonder if the country is good for a visit and what to do in Slovenia. Although Slovenia is a small country, there are plenty of places to visit and fun things to do in Slovenia with kids.
You can climb the Alps, walk through the Alpine meadows, breathe in the freshest air, swim in the warm Adriatic Sea, and visit Slovenia’s fantastic thermal springs and caves.
There are many charming Slovenian towns where you can wander and admire Gothic architecture and monuments.
Children will love to be entertained in the “Mini City” and Lipica stud farm; they offer fun activities and are among the best things to do in Slovenia. No matter what time of the year you are going on vacation with children to Slovenia, you will always have fun.
#1 Triglav National Park
Triglav National Park includes Mount Triglav, the highest in the country (2864 meters), which is a symbol of Slovenia and a must-see.
The area of the national park is 840 square kilometres. People come here to admire the mountains, lakes, and waterfalls and just relax. Hiking is also very popular here among both young people and older ones.
#2 Lake Bled
The architectural landmark of Slovenia is Lake Bled. A reservoir of glacial origin is located among the snow-white peaks of the Julian Alps, which are reflected in clear water as if in a mirror.
In addition to bewitching views and a healthy mountain climate, the shores of the lake are rich in thermal springs. In the middle of the reservoir is a small island on which the baroque church of St. Mary has been standing since the 17th century.
There is also an amazing Bled castle which has been located on a 130-meter cliff near Lake Bled for a thousand years. At various times, it served as an impregnable fortress and episcopal residence, withstood two strong earthquakes and a peasant uprising.
Today, a historical museum with objects of medieval life, a museum of ancient printing and a wine cellar are based inside the building. In summer, medieval tournaments are held in the castle courtyard, where participants compete in the skill of archery.
#3 Predjama Castle
The main cultural attractions of Slovenia are associated with the Middle Ages. Predjama Castle, hidden inside a 123-meter cliff near Postojnska Yama Cave, is no exception. Its name can be translated as “pre-cave” from the Slovenian language.
The first mention of Predjama Castle dates to the beginning of the 13th century, but it acquired its current appearance in the second half of the 16th century. The castle was erected at the entrance to the cave, and rock acts as a supporting structure.
Currently, there is a museum inside. You can come here when an annual medieval-style tournament takes place. This costumed spectacle is an exciting event for kids. The little knights can practice swordsmanship and archery.
#4 Lake Bohinj
Lake Bohinj is the largest lake in Slovenia, which was formed from a glacier. The attraction is in the Julian Alps at an altitude of 525 m.
The whole area of the lake is 3.18 square kilometres, the depth reaches 45 meters, and it is part of a national park. The tourists find this place calm, serene and beautiful, suitable for tours with kids.
#5 Julian Alps
The Julian Alps are mighty peaks offering the most picturesque panoramas, crystal clear water sparkles in the sun, and a green landscape that fills us with fresh energy.
Triglav reigns in these parts, the highest peak in Slovenia, which has great symbolic significance for Slovenes. The hike to the great peak can be difficult but possible to conquer. Take a stroll along the emerald river Soča to the Brda hills filled with vineyards or take a guided tour.
#6 Kranjska Gora
Kranjska Gora is a famous ski resort in northwestern Slovenia. The Alpine Skiing World Cup is regularly held here on Kranjska Gora.
It’s a small town beautifully located in a picturesque green valley at the foot of the Julian Alps. In addition to mountaineering, skiing, snowboarding and hiking, the region offers natural and cultural attractions to tourists of all ages.
Cultural attractions are not so numerous: several museums, churches and monuments. But the real treasures are natural assets: The Triglav National Park and the Zelenki Reserve, waterfalls and lakes. Visiting them are among the best things to do in Slovenia.
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#7 Vintgar Gorge
Vintgar Gorge is a picturesque canyon cut by the Radovna River. At the canyon’s end is a bridge and an impressive waterfall, “Sum”. A trip to the gorge can be combined with a visit to Lake Bled – the sights are not far from each other.
Vintgar was discovered only at the end of the 19th century, but today it is a very popular tourist route in Slovenia. To make moving along the gorge possible, wooden bridges are scattered throughout its length.
The length of the gorge is about 1.6 kilometres. Keep in mind that you can visit Vintgar only during the summer months. Before travelling, check the last updated information to avoid disappointment if the place is closed.
#8 Maribour Castle
The ancient Maribour castle is located in Slovenia’s second-largest city of Maribor and is the only one of the three fortresses that once existed in the city that has survived to this day. It was built in the 15th century with the direct participation of Emperor Frederick III.
The oldest elements were decorated in the Gothic style, the later ones in the Renaissance and Baroque styles. Now the castle is more like a palace – with white walls, brick-red roof tiles, a high tower, and a stunning interior.
The halls are decorated with luxurious painted ceilings, carvings and frescoes on the walls. The Maribor Museum operates on the territory and contains an exposition of clothes and uniforms of representatives of the nobility in different periods of history.
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#9 Ljubljana
The beautiful capital of Slovenia is called the green capital of Europe, and it’s a great city break with kids. The international influence has left its mark on interesting architecture, rich culture and delicious Slovenian cuisine.
It is worth coming here to walk along the medieval streets, enjoy the local gastronomy, visit museums, stroll at the farm market or take a guided tour.
There is plenty to see in Ljubljana and things to do. The centre of Ljubljana is almost entirely pedestrian, which gives the city a cosy atmosphere. Also, visiting Ljubljana, you cannot skip visiting Ljubljana castle.
The castle was built in the 12th century, survived several earthquakes, was rebuilt several times, passed from dukes to kings, and was used as barracks, a prison and a hostel for the poor in different periods.
You can climb to Ljubljana Castle on foot or by funicular. It is convenient that Ljubljana is located almost in the centre of the country, so from here, you can easily get to any sights of Slovenia and settle in the city as a “base”.
It is worth spending at least a couple of days here to thoroughly explore the capital. In the summer, various festivals and performances are constantly held here.
#10 Celje Castle
The fortress in the city of Celje has become a symbol of the city. It is located on the Grajska mountain, and its construction took place at the beginning of the 13th century.
In the eastern part of the castle, Frederic’s tower with a square base stands out, built according to ancient technologies to construct defensive structures.
There are outbuildings and a fountain in the western part of the castle. Views of the Savinya River and the city panorama open from the fortress territory.
You can try national Slovenian dishes and drinks prepared according to old recipes and Slovenia’s local wine in a local restaurant. Also, a knighting ceremony is held here for everyone to participate in, which is among the top things to do in Slovenia.
#11 Postojnska Jama
Postojnska Jama or Postojna Cave, is the largest cave in Slovenia, with underground halls, tunnels and grottoes, with bizarre stalactites and stalagmites, stretching over 20 kilometres. But only 5 kilometres of these tunnels are open for free visiting.
Part of the route must be overcome on foot, the other part – in wagons along the railway, which is built right in the cave. For those who want to explore the underground world in more detail, there are special tours to the more remote parts of the caves.
It is worth taking. Many tourists find it one of the most unusual things to do in Slovenia. The temperature underground is about 10 degrees above zero all year round, so don’t forget to bring a warm cloth. About 10 kilometres from the caves is the Predjama Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Slovenia. The castle can be reached from Postojna by free bus.
#12 Tivoli Park
Tivoli Park is the biggest park in Ljubljana (5 square kilometres), called so by the Napoleonic troops in honour of the Parisian gardens of the same name. On its territory, Tivoli Palace was founded in the 17th century and later became the residence of the Bishop of Ljubljana.
Now Tivoli has been converted into a centre for graphic arts. The park has beautiful ponds, fountains, pavilions, footpaths and alleys and is a great place for walks with kids.
#13 Izola
Izola is a perfect place for a seaside holiday with children. This place is suitable even for travellers to Slovenia with a toddler due to the bay’s mild climate, warm sea, and shallow waters.
A family-friendly beach, Simonov Zaliv, has a quiet, leisurely atmosphere just about a 15-minute walk from the centre.
#14 Maritime Museum in Piran
Piran is an old town on the Adriatic coast which dates to the 5th century. In addition to architectural sights, there are several museums in Piran. The main one is the Maritime Museum, founded in 1954 in the Gabrielli de Castro Palace on the waterfront.
The museum collection is dedicated to developing Slovenian navigation and related industries. Among the exhibits, there are old maps, models and photos of ships. The museum would be very interesting for children; visiting it is among the best things to do in Slovenia.
#15 Ski resorts in Slovenia
Slovenia is rich in ski resorts. Among the best places to visit are Mariborsko Pohorje, Kranjska Gora, Bovec, Vogel, and Rogla.
Each of them offers good conditions for skiing and snowboarding, and mountain climbing. There are trails of different lengths and difficulty levels. Winter sports in Slovenia are available from December to March.
#16 Napoleon’s Bridge in Kobarid
The Napoleon Bridge is an architectural heritage of Slovenia, and the Soča river is a great place for fans of extreme recreation – kayaking, canyoning, and rafting.
In addition, the Napoleon Bridge is adjacent to other sights of the Soca Valley – the Tolmin Gorge, the World War I Museum in Kobarid and the Triglav National Park.
The river soca is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe. No wonder it was filmed in the film “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian” – a fairy tale is everywhere.
#17 The Aqualuna Thermal Water Park
The Aqualuna water park in Podcetrtek is a wonderful place for swimming and relaxing on the water and one of the most popular things to do in Slovenia.
Besides numerous slides and a waterfall, it offers a great fun activity for kids – gold hunting. Since the water temperature here never drops below 27 degrees, it is an ideal place for kids.
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#18 Koper
Koper is a resort located on the Istrian peninsula, on the Adriatic Sea, a great city for Slovenia holidays. Koper is not only the largest port in the country but also a popular holiday destination for locals and tourists.
Due to the location next to the border with Italy, people here speak both Slovenian and Italian. Besides numerous attractions, including the period of the Venetian Republic, there is a big zoo. This is not only an amusement park but also a famous research centre with a wide variety of animals.
#19 Hisa Iluzij
The House of Illusions in Ljubljana is one of Slovenia’s most fun experiences for kids and adults. It offers 40 installations, a play space, labyrinths and tunnels, rebuses and puzzles, and a mirror of revelations and ghosts.
Here you can plunge into the world of physics, learn a lot about light and colour, visit a room that rotates and be sure to take funny photos for memory. This two-story museum is in the city’s historic centre on Congress Square and is one of the top Slovenia things to do.
#20 “MiniCity”
Mini City is a children’s town in Ljubljana and is a must-see place when visiting Slovenia. It is considered the main play centre for children from up to 12 years old.
This is an educational and entertaining place in the form of a small town with its own streets, park and houses. Children will see the fire department, a farm, a bakery, a cafe and a cake shop here. Developing puzzles, board games, toys, and luminous plasticine are on sale.
Under the guidance of experienced animators, children will learn about various professions and acquire useful skills and knowledge.
#21 Lipica stud farm
Lipica stud farm is an estate with foals and horses and a collection of wagons and carriages that have been assembled for more than 100 years. This is a great place for children to interact with horses, acquire some knowledge, and try horse riding.
FAQ’s
Slovenia is famous for its incredibly beautiful nature, ecologically clean air, gorgeous lakes, picturesque landscapes and monuments of medieval architecture.
Slovenia is a small country with many interesting places to visit. 5 days will be enough to travel, given that at least 1 day needs to be spent in Ljubljana’s capital.
The best time to visit Slovenia is in the spring and summer months when the weather allows you to move around the open-air sights comfortably. In addition, the Adriatic coast is great for a seaside vacation.
Slovenia is a fairly cheap country compared to neighbouring European countries. Tourists’ food, accommodation and entertainment are much cheaper here than in Italy or Austria.
Lake Bled is considered the most beautiful place in Slovenia and one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The majority of local guides recommend starting their trip to Slovenia from this alpine lake.
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