The Julian Alps in Slovenia are a great mountain range to explore. They offer stunning natural beauty, with rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys. Mount Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia, is located in the Julian Alps and is …
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Backpacking Slovenia in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Slovenia with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Slovenia
Welcome to Slovenia, a compact European gem offering backpackers a perfect blend of nature, history, and affordability. Pros? Explore charming medieval towns, hike in the Julian Alps, and enjoy a budget-friendly travel experience. Slovenia's size allows easy exploration, but limited public transportation may require some planning. For the backpacker seeking a European adventure without breaking the bank, Slovenia's stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality create a unique and accessible destination, where every step leads to new discoveries.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Slovenia
Mountains
Scenery
Slovenia offers a diverse range of stunning scenery to explore. One of the top attractions is Lake Bled, with its picturesque island and medieval castle perched on a hilltop. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island, hike up to the castle for …
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People
Slovenian people are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making visitors feel right at home. They possess a genuine sense of hospitality that is deeply ingrained in their culture. Slovenians are friendly, open-minded, and always willing to …
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Backpackers
The backpacker scene in Slovenia is vibrant and diverse, offering a range of experiences for budget travelers. The country’s stunning natural landscapes, including the Julian Alps and Lake Bled, attract outdoor enthusiasts looking for hiking, …
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Uniqueness
Exploring Slovenia is a unique and off the beaten track experience because of its diverse natural landscapes, rich history, and charming small towns. From the stunning beauty of Lake Bled and the Julian Alps to the underground wonders of the …
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Cheap
The average cost for backpacking in Slovenia can vary depending on the traveler’s preferences and travel style. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around $30-50 per day for accommodation in hostels or budget guesthouses. Meals at …
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💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Slovenia
- Visit Lake Bled: This picturesque lake is surrounded by mountains and features a charming island with a church. It’s a must-visit for its stunning natural beauty and the opportunity to explore the castle perched on the cliff.
- Explore Ljubljana: The capital city of Slovenia is known for its vibrant atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and pedestrian-friendly streets. Take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River, visit the Ljubljana Castle, and enjoy the lively cafes and restaurants.
- Discover Postojna Cave: This fascinating cave system is one of the largest in the world and offers a unique underground experience. Take a guided tour to see the stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and don’t miss the famous ”human fish” – a rare aquatic salamander.
- Experience Triglav National Park: Slovenia’s only national park is a paradise for nature lovers. Hike through the Julian Alps, admire the crystal-clear lakes, and enjoy the breathtaking views from Mount Triglav, the highest peak in the country.
- Taste Slovenian cuisine and wine: Slovenia is known for its delicious food and wine. Don’t miss the chance to try traditional dishes like potica (rolled pastry), štruklji (rolled dumplings), and kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage). Pair your meal with a glass of local wine, such as the famous Rebula or Cviček.
But Slovenia offers more...
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Slovenia
Don’t try this at home
Slovenia | Slovenia turned out to be a don’t-try-this-at-home episode of my life. A few tips how to avoid this from happening to you.Never drink in a place where it’s also possible to sign up for paragliding Rule 1 is especially important if you are afraid of heights In case you did ignore rule 1 and 2 don’t pick an instruct...
Read more To the top of the most dangeours mountain of Slovenia
Slovenia | Still don’t know how I did it but climbed this monster today. When I saw the mountain I was pretty sure I was not able to reach the top. But thanks to my personal superguide Blaž Lovenjak (who I met in Iceland last year) we made it. He even showed me the largest waterfall of slovenia.#fakenews: it wasn’t today but yesterday but already start...
Read more Traveled route: Ljubljana, Bled, Kransjka Gora, Soça, Bovec, Logatec, Trieste, Brana Mountain, Ptuj
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Slovenia
The best time to visit Slovenia for backpacking is during the spring and autumn seasons. In spring (April to June), the weather is mild, and the landscapes are blooming with colorful flowers. It's an ideal time for hiking and exploring the country's natural beauty.
Autumn (September to October) is also a great time to visit as the temperatures are pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. The autumn foliage adds a beautiful touch to the already picturesque landscapes, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Both spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for backpacking, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) on average. However, it's important to note that weather can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to pack layers and be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Autumn (September to October) is also a great time to visit as the temperatures are pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. The autumn foliage adds a beautiful touch to the already picturesque landscapes, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Both spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for backpacking, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) on average. However, it's important to note that weather can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to pack layers and be prepared for occasional rain showers.
Risk level: low (0%)Safety advice for Slovenia
- Always be alert to terrorism. Terrorists have targeted European cities. Crowded places, such as music and cultural events, festivals, Pride events, tourist areas, Christmas markets, shopping areas, transport hubs, major sporting events and other public areas are possible targets. Be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities. Report anything suspicious to the police.
- Petty crime, theft from vehicles and highway robberies can happen. Be careful on public transport, in tourist areas, petrol stations and highway parking areas. Use secure parking facilities.
- Drink spiking can occur at popular nightclubs.
- Protests are peaceful but can disrupt transport. Monitor the local media.
- Avalanches, flash floods and mudslides occur in alpine areas. Monitor local weather. Follow the advice of local authorities. Stick to marked slopes and trails when skiing, hiking, and mountain climbing.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
SloveniaMy tips to get you on the way!Does Slovenia sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Slovenia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Slovenia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Slovenia. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Slovenia may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Slovenia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Slovenia, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 29 September 2024
Help othersDo you like this info about Slovenia?
Do you like this info about Slovenia, please share it with a fellow-backpacker. Did you spot a mistake, or you have any tip for improving, please let me know!