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Slovenia Attractions

By , About.com Guide

Slovenia's top attraction is the city of Ljubljana, but visitors to this country should venture beyond the capital city to gain the best understanding of Slovenia's regions and culture. For example, did you know that Slovenia produces wine? Or that its cave networks are full of mysterious geological formations and underground waterways? Slovenia's geographical diversity and cultural richness will ensure a tour of the country is full of pleasant surprises. 

Ljubljana

Ljubljana, SloveniaCC BY-NC-SA Stefano Liboni

Ljubljana is Slovenia's capital city and one of its most-visited attractions. Here, you'll find Ljubljana Castle, the famous Dragon Bridge, the main square with its monument of Preseren the poet, as well as cafes, restaurants, an outdoor market, museums, and shopping. During holidays, Ljubljana is hopping with celebrations and, during the Christmas season, decorations light up the historic architecture. New Year's Eve in Ljubljana is one big party, but no matter when you go, you'll be able to enjoy the city's energetic pulse. 

Lake Bled

Lake Bled SloveniaiStockphoto/Mokotar

Lake Bled is a romantic destination that throws Slovenia's natural landscape into sharp relief. Hotels surround the lake itself, in the middle of which is an island with a church. A castle overlooks both. Then, in the distance, Mount Triglav, with its triple frosted peak, is visible. During the high season, Lake Bled teems with vacationers, but it proves to be a peaceful retreat during the off season. A boat ride to the lake's island is a recommended activity. You may catch newlyweds ascending the stairs to seal their futures together as a part of a long-held custom. 

Ptuj

Ptuj, SloveniaCC BY-NC-SA Opspin

Ptuj is the oldest city in Slovenia. It is also one of the most famous destinations during Slovenian Carnival, during which participants dress up in sheepskin masks and suits to scare away evil. Ptuj Castle is its most prominent site, but the town itself should also be explored.

Maribor

Maribor, SloveniaCC BY-NC-SA sincretic
Maribor is Slovenia's second-largest city and is notable for its wines and nearby ski resort. The city is also culturally rich, and visitors will have no trouble tracing history by viewing its sights, which include a cathedral and a town hall, or taking in a performance at the Slovak National Theater. Before a visit to Maribor, a calendar of events should be consulted; Maribor hosts plenty of festivals throughout the year, including a puppet festival and a Lent festival.

Caves

Postonja CaveCC By Shadowgate
Caves are a mysterious natural attraction in Slovenia. Postonja Cave is the most famous and is a part of one of the longest cave systems in the country. At the mouth of the cave stands Predjama Castle. This castle, with its intriguing history, is surrounded by legend and romance. Skocjan Caves are protected by UNESCO, and they boast one of the largest underground caverns in all of Europe. Križna Cave is recognized for its underground lakes of startling green water.

Lipica

Lipizzaner Horses in Lipica, SloveniaCC BY-NC-NC Peter J Dean
Lipica is the famous home to the Lipizzaner horses--the white horses known for their grace and skill in classical dressage with origins that date to the time of the Hapsburgs. The main site in Lipica is the stud farm, but visitors should try to arrange their visit during one of the demonstrations in riding technique.

Wine-Growing Regions

Vineyards at Goriska Brda, SloveniaCC BY-SA jmcnally
Wine regions in Slovenia are popular with tourists. Primorska is a wine region that shares its borders with Italy. The dark red Teran wine comes from this region, though Primorska's main product is white wine. Posjave is noted for its sparkling wines. And Podravje, home to Prekmurje--a culturally significant region int he far east of Slovenia--produces mainly white wines.

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