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7-day itinerary

Notranjska Highlights Tour

Seven-day exploration of Notranjska's caves and forests

Length
7 days · 18 sights
Pace
Moderate
Estimated cost
€503 per person
Based in
Notranjska

Day by day

  1. Day 1: Arrival in Ljubljana & City Highlights

    Arrive in the capital, explore the historic center, and get a feel for Slovenian culture before heading south.

    • 10:00

      Robba Fountain & Prešeren Square

      Start your trip at the iconic 18th-century Baroque fountain designed by Lorenzo Mascheretti in the heart of Ljubljana.

      About 60 min

    • 11:00

      Ljubljana Castle

      Take the funicular or walk up to the castle for panoramic views of the city and a tour of the medieval towers.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 13:00

      Lunch in the Old Town

      Enjoy traditional Slovenian cuisine at a restaurant near the Triple Bridge.

      About 60 min

    • 15:00

      Žale Cemetery

      Visit the final resting place of Slovenian national heroes, a significant cultural and historical site.

      About 60 min

    • 16:30

      Union Experience Brewery

      Explore the 160-year-old Union Brewery museum and enjoy a beer tasting session.

      About 60 min

    Meals:
    Lunch at Old Town Ljubljana; Dinner at Ljubljana City Center
    Where to stay:
    Stay in central Ljubljana for easy access to public transport and attractions.
    Getting around:
    Walkable city center. No car needed for Day 1.

  2. Day 2: Drive to Notranjska & Postojna

    Travel south from Ljubljana to the heart of the Karst region, visiting Postojna.

    • 09:00

      Drive to Postojna

      Drive south from Ljubljana to Postojna (approx. 40-50 km).

      About 60 min

    • 10:30

      Postojna Cave

      Explore the world-famous karst cave system with its underground railway and stunning stalactites.

      About 3 hours

    • 13:30

      Lunch in Postojna

      Traditional lunch at a local restaurant.

      About 60 min

    • 15:00

      Predjama Castle

      Visit the impressive Renaissance castle built into the mouth of a cave, located just outside Postojna.

      About 1.5 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Postojna Town; Dinner at Postojna or Pivka
    Where to stay:
    Stay in Postojna or nearby Pivka for easy access to the caves and next day's activities.
    Getting around:
    Car required. Parking available at both Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle.

  3. Day 3: Rakov Škocjan & Karst Plateau

    Explore the dramatic karst valley of Rakov Škocjan and the surrounding plateau.

    • 09:00

      Rakov Škocjan Cave Valley

      Hike through the unique karst valley with natural bridges, wetlands, and the famous Rakov Škocjan Cave.

      About 60 min

    • 12:30

      Lunch on the Karst Plateau

      Enjoy local specialties like black cuisine (black risotto) in a rural farmhouse.

      About 60 min

    • 14:00

      Karst Formations & Dolines

      Visit various dolines (sinkholes) and karst fields to understand the geological history of the region.

      About 2 hours

    • 16:30

      Kozina Wind Farm

      Visit the scenic Kozina area with its wind turbines, offering great views of the Karst landscape.

      About 1.5 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Karst Plateau; Dinner at Kostanjevica na Krki
    Where to stay:
    Stay in Kostanjevica na Krki or nearby Metlika.
    Getting around:
    Car required. Roads are generally good but can be narrow in rural areas.

  4. Day 4: Metlika & Črnomelj

    Explore the wine region of Lower Carniola and the town of Črnomelj.

    • 09:30

      Metlika Castle

      Tour the Renaissance castle and its famous wine cellars, known for sparkling wines.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 12:30

      Lunch in Metlika

      Lunch at a local restaurant, possibly with wine tasting.

      About 60 min

    • 14:00

      Črnomelj Heritage

      Explore the historic center of Črnomelj, including the Franciscan Monastery and the town square.

      About 2 hours

    • 16:30

      Krka River Walk

      A relaxing walk along the Krka river, enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

      About 1.5 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Metlika; Dinner at Črnomelj
    Where to stay:
    Stay in Črnomelj.
    Getting around:
    Car required.

  5. Day 5: Idrija & The Cinnabar Heritage

    Travel to Idrija, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its mercury mine.

    • 09:00

      Drive to Idrija

      Drive from Črnomelj to Idrija (approx. 100 km).

      About 1.5 hours

    • 11:00

      Idrija Mercury Mine

      Take a guided tour of the historic underground mercury mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

      About 2 hours

    • 13:30

      Lunch in Idrija

      Try the local Idrija žlikrofi (dumplings) for lunch.

      About 60 min

    • 15:00

      Wild Lake (Divje Jezero)

      Visit the karstic lake with the deepest explored cave system in the world.

      About 1.5 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Idrija Old Town; Dinner at Idrija
    Where to stay:
    Stay in Idrija.
    Getting around:
    Car required.

  6. Day 6: Logarska Dolina & Alpine Scenery

    Explore the beautiful Logarska Dolina valley, a hidden gem in the Slovenian Alps.

    • 08:30

      Drive to Logarska Dolina

      Drive from Idrija to Logarska Dolina (approx. 100 km).

      About 2 hours

    • 11:00

      Logarska Dolina Valley

      Hike or drive through the stunning alpine valley, visiting the waterfall and enjoying the pristine nature.

      About 3 hours

    • 14:30

      Lunch at the Valley Restaurant

      Lunch with a view of the valley.

      About 60 min

    • 16:00

      Mountain Hut Visit

      Visit a traditional mountain hut for a snack or coffee.

      About 60 min

    Meals:
    Lunch at Logarska Dolina; Dinner at Slovenj Gradec
    Where to stay:
    Stay in Slovenj Gradec or nearby.
    Getting around:
    Car required. Roads can be winding.

  7. Day 7: Return to Ljubljana & Departure

    Drive back to Ljubljana, stopping at any final sights, and depart.

    • 09:00

      Drive to Ljubljana

      Drive from Slovenj Gradec to Ljubljana (approx. 80 km).

      About 2 hours

    • 11:00

      Ljubljana Central Market

      Browse the fresh produce and local crafts at the central market.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 13:00

      Farewell Lunch

      Final Slovenian meal in Ljubljana.

      About 60 min

    • 15:00

      Ljubljana Riverbank Walk

      A relaxing walk along the Ljubljanica river before departure.

      About 60 min

    Meals:
    Lunch at Ljubljana
    Where to stay:
    No overnight stay.
    Getting around:
    Car required for return trip.

Practical information

Notranjska, located in southwestern Slovenia, offers a distinct alternative to the country’s more crowded Alpine regions. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, temperatures are mild, making hiking and cave exploration comfortable. Summer can be warm but pleasant, while winter brings snow that may restrict access to certain rural roads and trails. Spring and autumn provide fewer tourists and lush landscapes, though rain is more frequent. Transportation in Notranjska is best handled by car. Public transport exists but is limited and infrequent, making a rental vehicle essential for flexibility. The region is accessible via the A1 motorway, with exits near Postojna and Ilirska Bistrica. Once there, roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, particularly in the Karst area. Parking is usually available at major attractions like Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, but arrive early during peak season to secure spots. For accommodation, stay in Postojna for convenience and access to the cave system, or in Ilirska Bistrica for a quieter, more local experience. Rural guesthouses and agritourism farms in the surrounding villages offer authentic stays and home-cooked meals. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, as options are fewer than in Ljubljana or Bled. Budget-wise, Notranjska is moderately priced. Entrance fees for Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle are significant costs, so consider purchasing combined tickets if available. Meals at local restaurants are affordable compared to tourist hubs, and self-catering options can further reduce expenses. Bring sturdy walking shoes, as terrain varies from paved paths to rugged trails. Pack layers for changing weather, rain gear, and insect repellent, particularly for cave tours and forest hikes. Always carry cash, as some rural establishments may not accept cards. Respect local customs and preserve the natural environment by staying on marked trails and disposing of waste properly. This region rewards those who seek tranquility and geological wonders over bustling nightlife.

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