The 7 Best Half Day Trips from Ljubljana in 2025

Slovenia’s beauty extends far beyond Ljubljana, and taking a half day trip from Ljubljana is the perfect way to experience more of the country without straying too far from the capital. Whether you’re short on time or prefer a city base with quick escapes, these trips let you explore alpine lakes, medieval castles, and charming coastal towns— all within a few hours.

On our trip to Slovenia we did just that – stayed in the hear of Ljubljana while renting a car and taking day trips all over the country. It felt like a great way to get a feel for Slovenia and so I’ve created this list of all the best places to take a half day trip from Ljubljana.

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Don’t Have Time to Read the Whole Post?
Here the Best Half Day Tours from Ljubljana:
🏞 Half-Day Tour to Lake Bled
🏰 6-Hour Tour to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle
🍷 Half Day Wine Tour to Vipava Valley

7 Best Half Day Trips from Ljubljana, Slovenia

Below are the best half day trips from Ljubljana to surrounding areas. These include popular places like Lake Bled and hidden gems like Celje Castle.

All of these day trips can be done in 4-6 hours, making them perfect half-day options. Most of these can also be done either by car, by public transport, or by joining a tour.

Lake Bled

Distance from Ljubljana: 54 km
How to get there: Drive (40 minutes), Bus (45 minutes), or take this Half-Day Tour to Lake Bled

Lake Bled is easily the BEST half day trip from Ljubljana, and for good reason. Lake Bled is absolutely gorgeous! The alpine lake has such a stunning blue color and it is easily one of the prettiest places I’ve seen in all of Europe.

There is actually quite a lot of things to do in Lake Bled and you could easily spend a few days there. However, if you are short on time then I highly recommend taking a half day trip to see Lake Bled.

One of the best things to do in Lake Bled is to visit the medieval castle, which is perched atop a high cliff overlooking the lake. If you are a history buff (like I am) you’ll be interested to know that the castle has over 1,000 years of history as it dates back to 1011AD.

However, even if you aren’t a big fan of castles I’d recommend going because the views of Lake Bled are incredible from the castle.

Another must-do on your half-day trip from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is to take one of the traditional Pletna boats, which are handmade by locals. The boat ride takes you to Bled Island where you can see the Assumption of Maria Church and explore the island for about 40 minutes before heading back.

**Note that you will need cash for the Pletna boat ride (currently €18 per person for roundtrip).**

Why Do a Day Trip to Lake Bled?

🏞 Postcard-Perfect Views – A crystal-clear alpine lake, a picturesque island church, and a medieval castle perched on a cliff.
🛶 Take a Traditional Pletna Boat Ride – Row or be rowed to Bled Island and ring the wishing bell.
🏰 Visit Bled Castle – Stunning panoramic views and a museum showcasing the region’s history.
🍰 Try the Famous Bled Cream Cake – A must-try local delicacy at a lakeside café.
🥾 Outdoor Activities – Enjoy walking, biking, or even paddleboarding around the lake.
🚗 Easy Day Trip – Only a 45-minute drive from Ljubljana, making it a convenient.

Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

Distance from Ljubljana: 53km
How to get there: Drive (~40 minutes), 6-Hour Tour to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle is another popular day trip from Ljubjana and can easily be done within 5-6 hours. Plus, you get to mix some Slovenian history with a unique experience on this half-day trip.

Postojna Cave is one of the most visited attractions in Slovenia. To visit, you’ll join a guided tour that takes you deep into the cave via an underground train. Once inside, you’ll spend the next 1.5 hours exploring the cave by foot.

Located nearby Postojna Cave is Predjama Castle. This is a smaller castle, but it is super unique in that it was carved into the cliff walls and is connected to an underground cave system.

Predjama Castle has a fascinating back story, and its worth going inside the castle to explore. You’ll want to plan to spend around 45 minutes to 1 hour in Predjama Castle.

If you are driving yourself or taking public transport to Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle, you can buy a combined ticked for both attractions on site. If you prefer to take a tour from Ljubljana this 6 hour tour to Predjama and Postojna is a highly-rated choice.

Why Do a Day Trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle?

🌍 Postojna Cave – Slovenia’s Most Famous Cave – Ride a unique underground train through vast caverns filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
🦎 See the “Baby Dragons” – Spot the rare, blind olm (proteus), a unique cave-dwelling amphibian.
🏰 Predjama Castle – A Fairytale Fortress – Perched in a cliffside, this medieval castle looks straight out of a fantasy novel.
⚔ Legends of a Rebel Knight – Discover the story of Erazem of Predjama, a Robin Hood-like figure who once lived here.
🚗 Easy to Reach – Only a 45-minute drive from Ljubljana, with both sites located close to each other.
🎟 Great Combo Ticket – Visit both attractions in one trip with a combined entrance ticket.

Vintgar Gorge

Distance from Ljubljana: 59km
How to get there: Drive (~45 minutes) or take the bus from Ljubljana to Lake Bled and then utilize the free Vintgar shuttle from Bled.

If you are looking to get out into nature, then the Vintgar Gorge walk is the perfect day trip option. This scenic hike takes you through a gorge located in the Julian Alps (not far from Lake Bled).

The unique aspect of this walk is that for 1.5 km you will be walking directly through the gorge on a boardwalk. It reminds me a bit of Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia (another place worth visiting if you love hiking/being out in nature).

The boardwalk portion of the hike is one-way, and afterwards you can choose between 2 different trails to get you back to the starting point. One trail is more difficult but shorter, while the other is an easier trail through the forest that takes a bit longer.

You can find more information about visiting at the official Vintgar Gorge website here.

Why Do a Day Trip to Vintgar Gorge from Ljubljana?

🌊 Breathtaking Natural Beauty – Walk along wooden boardwalks suspended above the crystal-clear Radovna River, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.
🥾 Easy & Family-Friendly Hike – A 1.6 km boardwalk trail suitable for all ages, ending at the stunning Šum Waterfall. From there, choose between 2 trail options to get back to the start.
📷 Fantastic Photography Spot – Capture the turquoise waters, moss-covered rocks, and picturesque wooden bridges.
🚗 Close to Lake Bled – Just a 10-minute drive from Lake Bled, making it easy to combine both in one trip.
🌿 Less Crowded in the Morning – Visit early to enjoy the tranquility before the crowds arrive.

Škocjan Caves

Distance from Ljubljana: 76km
How to get there: Drive (1 hour 15 minutes)

Škocjan Caves is karst cave system that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its best known for its massive & dramatic underground canyon which was created by the Reka River.

The difference between Škocjan Caves vs Postojna Cave is that Škocjan Caves feels more dramatic, natural, and on the wilder side. Postojna feels more set up for tourism as it includes a train ride down and then you’ll be a part of a walking tour while in the cave.

Personally, if I’d opt for Postojna Cave or if I was traveling with kids, was nervous about visiting a cave system, or if I was visiting Predjama Castle. However, if you want something more adventurous and off-the beaten path then Škocjan Caves is the better choice for you.

Why Take a Day Trip to Škocjan Caves?

🌍 UNESCO World Heritage Site – Recognized for its immense geological and cultural significance.
🌊 One of the World’s Largest Underground Canyons – Walk across a thrilling bridge suspended above the roaring Reka River.
⏳ Less Crowded Than Postojna Cave – Offers a more rugged, natural cave experience with fewer tourists.
🚗 Easy to Reach – Just an hour’s drive from Ljubljana, making it a convenient day trip.
🥾 Great for Hikers & Nature Lovers – Extend your visit with a scenic walk through the surrounding Škocjan Regional Park.

Celje Castle

Distance from Ljubljana: 81km
How to get there: Drive (1 hour)

Celje Castle is the largest medieval castle in all of Slovenia, and is definitely worth a visit if you love history. The castle was built in the 12th century and was home to the Counts of Celje, one of the most powerful noble families in medieval Slovenia.

Visiting Celje Castle offers a view into medieval life in Slovenia and is tied with a rich history – including the tragic love story of Friderik and Veronika, often called Slovenia’s “Romeo and Juliet.”

Celje Castle also offers panoramic views of the surrounding town and countryside.

One thing I loved about visiting Celje Castle is that it was a hidden gem, and we almost had the entrie castle grounds to ourselves in the middle of summer. So, while you should still visit Ljubljana Castle, visiting Celje Castle is worth it for a much less crowded experience!

Why do a Day Trip to Celje Castle from Ljubljana?

🏰 Rich History – One of Slovenia’s largest and most important medieval castles, linked to the powerful Counts of Celje.
🌄 Scenic Views – Perched on a hill, the castle offers breathtaking panoramas of Celje and the Savinja River valley.
🚗 Easy Day Trip – Just an hour’s drive or train ride from Ljubljana, making it convenient for a short getaway.
🗡 Legends & Stories – Explore medieval towers, ramparts, and learn about the castle’s dramatic past, including tales of treachery and romance.

Vipava Valley Wine Tour

Distance from Ljubljana: 81km
How to get there: Best option is to take a tour like this Half Day Vipava Valley Wine Tour.

If you are a wine lover than than this day trip to the vineyards of Vipava Valley is the perfect choice. Not only is Slovenia famous for their local wine varieties, but the views of the vineyards and Slovenian countryside are absolutely gorgeous.

Taking a tour from Ljubljana is a great way to enjoy visiting the wineries, as you don’t have to worry about driving and can instead worry about enjoying all the delicious wine.

Why Do a Day Trip to Vipava Valley?

🍷 Top-Quality Slovenian Wines – Taste unique local varieties like Zelen and Pinela, found only in this region.
🌄 Stunning Landscape – Rolling vineyards, charming villages, and dramatic karst hills create a breathtaking backdrop.
🍇 Meet Local Winemakers – Enjoy intimate, family-run wineries with personal tastings and stories about traditional winemaking.
🧀 Delicious Local Cuisine – Pair wines with homemade cheeses, prosciutto, and other regional delicacies.

Piran

Distance from Ljubljana: 121km
How to get there: Drive (1.5 hours), bus (2 hours), Half-day guided tour

If you want to experience one of Slovenia’s most beautiful coastal towns on a short day trip from Ljubljana, then Piran is a great choice.

Located around a 1.5 hour drive from Ljubljana, the seaside town of Piran is known for its charming historic district with colorful houses and coastal views.

Piran’s old town is small and compact, making it easy to explore within a couple of hours. Some of the best things to do include wandering through the old town and Tartini Square or heading to the waterfront to enjoy the scenic views and some fresh seafood.

Why Do a Day Trip to Piran?

🏛 Venetian Charm – Wander through a stunning medieval town with colorful buildings, narrow alleys, and Italian influence, shaped by its Venetian past.
🌊 Breathtaking Coastal Views – Climb the old city walls or visit St. George’s Church for panoramic Adriatic Sea vistas.
🐟 Fresh Seafood by the Sea – Savor locally caught fish, calamari, and other seafood delicacies at waterfront restaurants.

Where to Stay in Ljubljana

If you are planning to visit Slovenia, staying in Ljubljana and making day trips around the country is a great option. Here are some of the best places to stay in Ljubljana.

📍 Best City Center Hotel – Grand Hotel Union Eurostars

⭐ Rating: 9/10 Stars I ✅ Book Now

If you are looking for a Ljubljana hotel with a central location, look no further as Grand Hotel Union Eurostars is directly in the heart of the old town. Not only does this hotel offer an amazing location but it also has beautiful newly renovated rooms and is highly rated.

📍 Best Apartment Rental – Central Apartment with FREE Parking

⭐ Rating: 9/10 Stars I ✅ Book Now

If you are planning to rent a car in Ljubljana, then staying at this city center apartment is ideal because it includes free parking. The apartment has a modern design with space for up to 4 people. Plus, the central location means that you can walk to all the places in Ljubljana’s old town.

The Wrap-Up: Best Half Day Trips from Ljubljana

One of the best things about Ljubljana is that it is in the center of Slovenia, making it easy to stay in the capital city and take day trips to the surrounding areas. Taking a half day trip from Ljubljana is the perfect way to combine spending time in city with seeing some of Slovenia’s most iconic places like Lake Bled, Postojna Caves, Predjama Castle, and more.