Slovenia has a strong national culture and heritage. Slovenians enjoy traditional (and modern) music, dance, and festivals, and the country has several large museums, art galleries, as well as theatres and performance halls. There are also many historical places of interest to visit, including churches, castles and cathedrals, and visiting these places is a great way to learn about the country’s traditions and history.
Slovenian culture
Outdoor activities
Slovenia is a fantastic place for outdoor activities and sports, as the country offers beautiful beaches and mountains. Expats also have the opportunity to hikeÃÃ in areas such as Triglav National Park, and enjoy wintertime skiing in Kranjska Gora. The riverside town of Bovec is also popular for white water rafting and kayaking on the Soca River. Cyclists, hikers, swimmers, and winter sports enthusiasts can all find ample opportunities within the country.
Places of interest in Slovenia
There are many day trips or weekends away from your base that you can enjoy in your leisure timeÃÃ in Slovenia:
- Ljubljana: The capital city, Ljubljana, offers parks, cathedrals, beautiful architecture, and popular museums, including the National Museum of Slovenia and the National Gallery. A wide range of shopping, dining, and other cultural activities can also be found here.
- Lake Bled: This beautiful lake, famous for a small island containing a church, is popular with weddings and is a great recreational spot for walking, swimming, dining, and relaxing.
- Bovec: This small town along the Soca River, near the Italian border, is a great weekend away for those who like adventure, with whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, and skiing available.
- Kranjska Gora: Slovenia's most well-know ski town, all winter sports and activities can be found here.
- Piran and Portoroz: These coastal Mediterranean towns are very scenic, and are great places to relax in the sunshine during the summer months.
Shopping in Slovenia
The largest shopping centres are in the major cities, such as Ljubljana and Maribor, and stock international and domestic retail goods, including fashion and electronics. In smaller towns, you can usually find grocery stores and markets, but many retail brands will offer online shopping and delivery services.
Dining in Slovenia
Dining and restaurant options are also plentiful in the country. Cafes are almost everywhere, offering quality coffees, meals, and snacks. Thanks to Slovenia's geographical location, its cuisine is a combination of many different countries, and diners can find foods from Austria, Italy, Hungary, and Croatia. In restaurants, pizza, pasta, schnitzels, and meats are popular, as is fresh seafood, cheeses, and a range of local desserts. The Mediterranean influence means cuisine is often fresh, local, and many healthy options are available. There are restaurants and dining options available to suit all budgets, from weekend food and produce markets to fine dining establishments. Slovenia also produces local wines, which are often featured in local restaurants.
In larger areas such as Ljubljana, you are most likely to find international cuisine options, such as Chinese, Japanese, or Spanish restaurants.
Useful links:
Tourism information
Shopping information
Skiing in Kranjska Gora
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