Finally, we’ve reached the last chapter of my Balkans travel series! I know right~ It’s been quite a journey. After sharing a total of eight posts covering all the other beautiful destinations, it’s time to wrap things up with our grand finale - Slovenia 🇸🇮
In this final post, I’ll be taking you through some of the country’s most charming spots: Ljubljana, Postojna, and the breathtaking Bled. It’s been such an unforgettable trip, and I can’t wait to share these final memories with you all. So sit back, relax, and enjoy reading!
About Slovenia
Slovenia, the final gem of my Balkans journey, and honestly, what a perfect place to end the trip. From the moment I set foot here, I was captivated by how peaceful and picturesque everything felt.
It’s a country that somehow blends fairy-tale charm with natural beauty, where emerald lakes, charming towns, and lush green landscapes all coexist in perfect harmony.
Whether it’s wandering through the lovely streets of Ljubljana, exploring the magical underground world of Postojna Cave, or simply soaking in the serenity of Lake Bled with its iconic island church, Slovenia felt like a breath of fresh air after days of travelling.
Every corner looked like it was pulled straight out of a postcard, calm, romantic, and effortlessly beautiful.
Ljubljana
Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia, truly surprised me with its beauty and calm vibe. It’s one of those cities that doesn’t try too hard to impress, yet effortlessly wins your heart the moment you arrive. With its pastel-colored buildings, cobblestone streets, and cosy riverside cafés, Ljubljana feels like a mix of fairy-tale charm and European elegance.
What I loved most was how walkable the city is; you can easily explore everything on foot while soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.
Strolling along the Ljubljanica River, crossing its famous Triple Bridge, and admiring the stunning view from Ljubljana Castle felt like stepping into a postcard. It’s small, peaceful, and full of character, definitely a hidden gem worth adding to your travel list.
Attractions
St. Nicholas Cathedral
Located in the heart of Ljubljana’s Old Town, St. Nicholas Cathedral (also known as Ljubljana Cathedral) is one of those places that quietly draws you in with its timeless beauty.
The moment I stepped inside, I was mesmerised by its stunning baroque architecture, intricate frescoes, and golden details that shimmered under the soft light. It’s not just a cathedral, it’s a piece of history that tells stories of faith, art, and resilience through the centuries.
Even if you’re not deeply religious, this cathedral is worth a visit for its breathtaking interior and serene atmosphere.
The green dome and twin towers make it one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and when the church bells ring across the Old Town, it feels almost magical, like the city is whispering its own gentle melody.
Details
Location : Dolničarjeva ulica 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Business hours : Tue (11.00am - 2.00pm) ; Mon & Wed - Sat (11.00am - 6.00pm) ; Sun (1.30pm - 3.00pm | 4.45pm - 6.15pm)
River Ljubljanica
The Ljubljanica River is truly the heartbeat of Ljubljana. As I wandered along its charming riverside, I couldn’t help but be enchanted by the colourful buildings, quaint cafés, and little bridges that line its banks. There’s something magical about watching the gentle flow of water while the city buzzes softly around you. It’s calm, romantic, and effortlessly beautiful.
One of my favourite moments was simply sitting by the river, sipping a coffee, and watching boats glide past. From the iconic Triple Bridge to the cosy riverside promenades, every corner offers a perfect snapshot of Ljubljana’s charm. Whether you’re taking a boat ride or just strolling along the banks, the Ljubljanica River makes you slow down, breathe, and truly appreciate the city’s peaceful vibe.
Dragon Bridge
The Dragon Bridge is one of Ljubljana’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s easy to see why. Standing on this striking bridge, you’re greeted by its four majestic dragon statues, which seem to guard the city with a mix of power and elegance.
The bridge itself is a marvel of early 20th-century engineering, and the combination of its Art Nouveau design with the legendary dragons makes it an unforgettable sight.
Crossing the bridge, I couldn’t help but admire how it perfectly frames the Ljubljanica River below and the charming streets of the Old Town beyond.
At sunset, when the golden light hits the dragons’ bronze scales, the whole scene feels almost magical. It's like Ljubljana is whispering its own little fairy tale. It’s a must-visit spot for photos, but also just to pause and soak in the city’s unique character.
Preseren Square
Prešeren Square (also known as Prešernov trg) is the vibrant heart of Ljubljana, and the perfect place to feel the city’s energy. Surrounded by colourful buildings, bustling cafés, and street performers, it’s where locals and travellers alike come together to enjoy the city’s charm.
Standing here, you can’t miss the iconic Franc Prešeren statue watching over the square, a tribute to Slovenia’s beloved national poet. Prešeren Square is the kind of place that makes you want to pause, soak in the surroundings, and feel Ljubljana’s heart beating right beneath your feet.
Food
Cacao Cafe
If there’s one place in Ljubljana that effortlessly blends city vibes with sweet indulgence, it’s Cacao Café. Tucked right next to the Ljubljanica River, this café is the kind of spot that makes you want to sit back, slow down, and just enjoy the moment.
The atmosphere is lively yet cosy, with both locals and travellers stopping by for their coffee fix, a refreshing scoop of gelato, or simply to enjoy the riverside view. It’s one of those cafés that immediately draws you in with its warm energy and irresistible dessert displays.
What truly won me over was their gelato. Creamy, rich, and easily among the best you’ll find in the city. Pair it with a cup of coffee or one of their decadent cakes, and you have the perfect afternoon break.
Whether you’re taking a short rest from exploring Ljubljana’s old town or just looking for a peaceful spot to unwind, Cacao Café makes you feel right at home. It’s definitely a must-visit stop for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Details
Location : Petkovškovo nabrežje 3, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Business hours : Sun - Thu (8.00am - 10.00pm) ; Fri - Sat (8.00am - 11.00pm)
Asian Restaurant Han
If you ever find yourself craving Asian flavours while exploring Ljubljana (like me), Asian Restaurant Han is such a comforting stop. Tucked away not too far from the city centre, this place surprised me with its warm atmosphere and a menu filled with familiar dishes that instantly felt like home.
After days of European cuisine, walking into Han felt like a little escape back to Asia, the aromas, the ingredients, the presentation… everything brought a sense of comfort I didn’t expect to find in Slovenia.
What I loved most was the generous portion size and genuinely delicious flavours. From savoury stir-fries to hearty noodle soups, the dishes were well-seasoned, balanced, and clearly prepared with care. It’s the kind of place you go to when you want something satisfying, warm, and fuss-free, especially after a long day of sightseeing. If you're in Ljubljana and your taste buds are calling for a familiar Asian touch, Han is definitely worth a visit.
Details
Location : Kongresni trg 3, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Business hours : Mon - Fri (11.00am - 10.00pm) ; Sat (12.00pm - 10.00pm) ; Closed on Sun
Accommodation
Four Points by Sheraton
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| ( Photo credit to Agoda.com ) |
During my time in Ljubljana (or wherever you stayed), Four Points by Sheraton became the perfect little retreat in between all the exploring. The moment I stepped into the lobby, I was greeted with a warm, modern ambience that instantly set the tone for a comfortable stay. The rooms were spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed. You know that satisfying feeling when you sink into a crisp hotel bed after a full day of walking? That was exactly the kind of comfort Four Points delivered.
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| ( Photo credit to fourpointsljubljanamons.si ) |
Breakfast was another highlight! A generous spread with both international and local selections, it was the ideal way to start the morning before heading out to explore the city. The staff were friendly, helpful and always ready with recommendations or assistance. Overall, Four Points by Sheraton struck that perfect balance between practicality and comfort. A hotel that made me feel well taken care of throughout my stay.
Details
Location : Pot za Brdom 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Cost per night : RM400++
Postojna Caves
Visiting Postojna Cave felt like stepping into a hidden world carved by nature over millions of years. The moment you hop onto the little cave train and glide into the dimly lit tunnels, you’re transported into a fairytale of dripping stalactites, towering stalagmites, and massive limestone halls that seem to stretch endlessly.
Every corner reveals another breathtaking formation, some sharp and dramatic, others soft and cathedral-like. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel tiny in the best possible way.
As I walked deeper into the cave system, guided under shimmering mineral curtains and echoing chambers, I couldn’t help but marvel at how beautifully untouched everything felt.
One of the highlights was spotting the famous “baby dragons”, the olm creatures that call this underground world home. By the way, a "baby dragon" is not basically a salamander, but rather, a specific type of cave-dwelling salamander called the olm (Proteus anguinus) has been nicknamed and believed to be a baby dragon in folklore for centuries. Postojna Cave is more than just a tourist spot; it’s a surreal natural masterpiece, and definitely a must-visit for anyone exploring Slovenia.
Details
Location : Jamska cesta 30, 6230 Postojna, Slovenia.
Business hours : Daily (10.00am - 3.00pm)
Entrance tickets : check out the pricing here
Lake Bled
Lake Bled is one of those places that leaves you speechless the moment you arrive. The lake itself looks almost unreal, calm, mirror-like water in the perfect shade of turquoise, surrounded by lush mountains and quiet walking paths. And right in the middle, the charming Bled Island sits like a scene from a storybook, complete with a little church whose bell you can actually ring for good luck.
Whether you’re strolling along the lakeside, enjoying the gentle breeze, or simply sitting on a bench watching the boats drift by, everything about Lake Bled feels slow, peaceful, and impossibly enchanting. Lake Bled isn’t just a destination, it’s a place you remember long after you leave.
Bled Castle
Perched dramatically on a cliff 130 meters above Lake Bled, Bled Castle is one of those places that instantly makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a medieval postcard. The walk up may leave you slightly out of breath, but trust me, the view at the top is worth every step.
From the courtyard, you get sweeping panoramic views of the shimmering lake, the tiny island in the middle, and the mountain ranges wrapping around the horizon. It’s the kind of view that makes you stop talking for a moment, just to take it all in. I remember standing there thinking, “Wow… this feels unreal.”
Inside the castle, you’ll find a charming mix of museum rooms, old corridors, and quiet corners perfect for exploring. The exhibits give you a glimpse into the region’s history, but honestly, the outdoor terraces are the real highlight.
I spent a good amount of time just soaking up the atmosphere, snapping photos, and enjoying how peaceful everything felt from above. If you’re visiting Lake Bled, Bled Castle is absolutely a must! Not just for the history, but for that magical bird’s-eye view you’ll remember long after the trip.
Details
Location : Grajska cesta 61, 4260 Bled, Slovenia.
Business hours : Daily (8.00am - 8.00pm)
Pletna boat ride
One of the most charming experiences in Bled is definitely the traditional Pletna boat ride, and honestly, it feels like stepping into a fairytale the moment you hop on. These handmade wooden boats, rowed by skilled oarsmen standing at the back, slowly glide across the calm, emerald waters of Lake Bled.
There’s something incredibly peaceful about the gentle rhythm of the boat, the cool breeze brushing past you, and the picture-perfect views unfolding from every angle. It’s the kind of moment where you naturally put your phone down and just enjoy being present.
As you approach Bled Island, the iconic church comes into view, and the atmosphere feels almost magical. The ride itself is about 15–20 minutes, but it’s an experience that stays with you much longer.
A Pletna boat ride to Bled Island costs €18 per person for a round trip. This price covers the journey to the island, where you get time to explore, and the return trip to the mainland. It is a cash-only payment. I remember sitting there, watching the reflections dance on the water, thinking how this simple boat ride became one of my favourite memories in Slovenia. If you’re visiting Lake Bled, don’t skip the Pletna — it’s truly one of the most unforgettable ways to soak in the beauty of this dreamy destination.
And that’s a wrap for my Balkans trip! I finally completed all my pending travel posts just in time before heading off on my next adventure. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading these entries and watching the travel vlogs as much as I enjoyed creating them. I can’t wait to share more itineraries and travel stories with you soon. Until then, xoxo.
Travel Vlog
( Subscribe to my YouTube Channel : TheShinilola )
#ShiniInSlovenia
For more photos, search the hashtag #ShiniInSlovenia on Instagram. There, you can also find additional details about my personal experiences during the trip.
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