If you're looking for a scenic road trip, look no further than this guide to driving from Slovenia to Croatia. With stunning landscapes and plenty of attractions along the way, you'll fall in love with the Adriatic coast.
Are you looking for a unique kind of trip? Are you ready to experience some extraordinary destinations? Does your idea of a good time consist of being constantly on the move, adventurous and dynamic? If so, you've come to the right place.
During the workweek, we usually commit to doing the same old things over and over again, so we need a break - we need to do something that excites us. Some of us have a primary need to see the outdoors, change numerous places and visit the most extraordinary places.
So here is your chance to escape the daily grind, experience the most spectacular views at the Julian Alps, feel the fresh breeze on the beaches of the Adriatic Sea and get your adrenaline pumping.
If you are planning a stay in Slovenia and looking for a full Itinerary, read our 7-day guide for travelling in Slovenia.
Lake Bled-Jewel in the Slovenian Alps
Head to Bled and take a dip in the glacial lake with a cute little island. You can hike to the fabulous mediaeval castle or just enjoy the beguiling views of Slovenia's highest mountain peaks.
Activities: rafting, canyoning, hiking, zip line, bike rental, trekking, swimming.
Best local restaurant: Ostarija Babji Zob
Camping: Camping Sobec
Ljubljana-The capital of bridges
Europe's greenest capital will surprise you with its vibrant nightlife on the banks of Ljubljanica. Summer in Ljubljana is truly like a huge street party with numerous lively cafes, restaurants and small boutiques. Jože Plečnik was a superstar Slovenian architect, and he is mainly responsible for the outfit of Ljubljana's Old Town.
Must-see in Ljubljana:
- Ljubljana Castle
- Tivoli Park
- Central Market and the Butcher Bridge
- Triple Bridge.
Where to stay: Hostel Celica
Where to eat: Odprta Kuhna, Druga Violina (tip: try the pasta with truffles, the roast veal and the struklji cheese dumplings)
Postojna Postojna Cave and Predjamski Castle
Postojna Cave and Predjamski Castle are a must-see. Postojna Cave is not only the largest cave in the world but also the home of Proteus or Human Fish - one of the most unique creatures on our planet. The cave train will take you through the 27 km long system of caves and tunnels where you can admire the wonders of nature: magnificent stalactites and stalagmites.
Predjama Castle is an imposing complex built into a rock face and was once the home of the legendary knight Erasmus. For all the legends and mysteries, visit à Predjama Castle
Where to eat: Pizzeria Minutka
Piran - Piece of Venice
For the best-preserved Venetian architecture in the Adriatic region, you'll have to make a stop in the ancient town of Piran. In the heart of this miniature city, you'll find Tartini Square - all covered in marble and full of panache.
Pula - a refreshing stopover
The largest Istrian City with Roman Heritage - here you'll see one of the best-preserved amphitheatres and if you're lucky you may even see the Pula Film Festival (July 14 -22). If you're not here for the city, but the coast, you won't be disappointed either. A 10-minute drive in your rental car will take you to the best-unspoiled beaches in Istria - Rt Kamenjak.
Activities: Rent a bike, explore caves, and swim.
Where to eat: Konoba Istriana - if you're by the sea, go for the seafood. For a quick snack, visit Safari Bar at Rt Kamenjak - sardines in local olive oil and their homemade tea are essential.
Camping: Brioni Sunny Camping
Opatija - cool and stylish town
Opatija is a tranquil old town. Its waterfront is perfect for long romantic walks or evening jogs.
Activities: For hiking, cycling or even hand gliding visit Učka. National Park
Camping in Opatija: http://www.campingopatija.com/
Where to eat: We recommend heading to Rijeka, where Konoba Kod Ive serves the best local food.
Plitvice Lakes-National park
For all nature lovers, the UNESCO natural heritage Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see. The turquoise waters of the 16 natural lakes will leave you in awe. Plitvice Lakes are a true natural wonderland with wild forests and waterfalls. We recommend a hike to the Great Waterfall - the highest waterfall in Croatia.
Camping: Camp Borje
Where to eat: Head to Korenica for the best roast lamb. Bistro Vila Velebita
Zadar -City of the Sun Salutation
The capital of the northern Dalmatian region is unjustly overlooked, which is a shame because Zadar has a lot to offer: numerous cafes, museums, churches and Roman ruins. The Monument to the Sun and the Sea Organ make Zadar a truly remarkable city - just as good as Dubrovnik.
Things to do: take a private half-day speedboat tour to the nearby islands
Where to eat: For great local wine and fresh fish go to Trg Petra Zoranica - Konoba Skobler.
Murter - a quick stop for a swim.
For more sun and beach hopping visit Island Murter and the spectacular bay of Jasenovec.
Vodice - a charming old village
It takes about 2 hours to get to Vodice - a charming village where you can stop at Konoba Tri Piruna - you must try their oysters, black risotto and Fiorentina - in that exact order.
Camping: Camping Vodice - Autocamp Ivona
Split- Atmospheric old town
The second-largest city in Croatia was founded in the 3rd century BC as a Greek colony. It was founded in the 3rd century BC. Split is not only the home of Diocletian's Palace but also the proud owner of the Blue Flag beach award. Beach Bacvice and Trstenik will enchant you with their white pebbles and crystal-clear water. Split is ideal when driving a hired car.
Camping: Camping Stobrec Split
Where to eat: For more local cuisine, visit Villa Spiza. Stuffed peppers and grilled tuna steak that melts in your mouth - yes, even Anthony Bourdain would eat here.
Makarska - shortstop for a swim.
On your way to Dubrovnik, we recommend a stop in Makarska. It's hard to find the words to describe Brela beach, so let's just say it's a dream beach.
Dubrovnik - The source of wealth and culture
Here we are - the star of the show - Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik is packed with baroque churches, mediaeval fortresses and glamour. If you plan to visit Dubrovnik in July or August, you can visit Dubrovnik Summer Festival. The only downside to Dubrovnik is its overcrowding.
Activities:
Everything is possible in Dubrovnik - from sea kayaking to freediving.
Where to eat: Konoba Veranda serves the best truffles and brodet (seafood stew).
Glamping: head to Čilipi - but book in advance at Cadmos Village. Let's go glamping - Treehouse at Cadmos Village
