Slovenia’s most
exciting cycling event

Perched on the edge of a peninsula that juts into the Adriatic Sea, Piran is the perfect place to disconnect and let yourself get lost in its old-world charm. To get a glimpse into the city’s past as a flourishing commercial and cultural centre, take an aimless stroll through the historic centre, with its cobblestoned backstreets and Venetian architecture.

Piran changed flags with astounding frequency over the centuries, and each chapter in its story influenced the layout and look of the city. For Venetian influences, check out the bell tower at St. George’s Parish Church, a replica of Venice’s iconic St. Mark’s Campanile. Climb the 146 steps to the top and you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the city and coastline.

To truly experience Piran like a local, ease into the city’s laid-back seaside vibe by stopping in a cosy cafe for a coffee or trying some of the seafood specialities. Sea bass baked in salt and Buzara mussels are two local favourites you can’t miss.

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, stop in one of the shops in Tartini Square and pick up some of Piran’s famous sea salt. Known for its outstanding quality, Piran salt was once the backbone of the city’s economy. To get a peek at the region’s centuries-old salt making tradition, take a short detour to Sečovlje Salt Pans. Established in the year 804, it’s one of the last salt pans in the Mediterranean where salt is still obtained manually the same way as it was done several hundred years ago.

Visiting Ljubljana is like diving into the pages of your favourite childhood fairytale. Slovenia’s capital city was built around the glimmering Ljubljanica river, in the shadow of a pretty castle on a hill. Strolling is a joy here – the city’s cobbled streets are lined with willow trees and peppered with charming restaurants and bars. 

You can get the lay of the land on a free walking tour or by renting a bike through the BicikeLJ bicycle-sharing system located across the city. Ljubljana has gained international recognition as a green city, with an estimated 300 kilometres of cycling paths and green areas covering almost 75% of the city’s surface. You can enjoy the views from one of the city’s 17 bridges, or get a different vantage point on a Ljubljana river cruise. 

If you’re hungry, head to Ljubljana’s Central Market to try some tasty Slovenian street food, like Sirov burek or kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage). The magnificent covered market is an attraction in itself – it was designed by beloved Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik to follow the bend of the Ljubljanica River and features elegant arches and columns.

For an outdoor adventure, there’s no better place to explore than the Ljubljana Marshes, just south of the capital. Slovenia’s largest wetlands cover 163 square kilometres and are home to 100 species of birds, 89 species of butterflies, 48 species of dragonflies and countless other animals. Bring your binoculars and you’re in for a treat.

The Postojna Cave system was carved out by the Pivka River more than two million years ago. Today, its caverns, halls and secret passages have expanded to around 24 kilometres and host a remarkable variety of wildlife and minerals. You can learn more about the cave’s rich history and biodiversity on a 1.5 hour guided tour – available in four to six different languages.

More than 38 million people from around the world have visited the 5 kilometre stretch that’s open to the public. Thanks to efforts to make the site more accessible, even those with reduced mobility can enjoy the stalactites and stalagmites from the comfort of the cave’s modern electric train. The largest stalagmite, known as the Skyscraper, stands at 16 metres tall and is the crystal white symbol of Postojna cave.

There are also quirky attractions within the cave system, like the oldest underground post office in the world, or the vivarium where you can learn about over 150 animal species that live in Slovenia’s caves. 

The most mythical animal in Postojna Cave is the olm, or human fish. According to folklore, these subterranean vertebrates are the offspring of a dragon that once lived in the cave. The largest underground predators, olms can live for up to 100 years and can survive more than eight years without food.

Velenje, the youngest Slovenian city, was once a bustling mining town. Its industrial past has given way to a sustainable future – Velenje is now one of Slovenia’s greenest and sunniest cities. Visitors can take advantage of the area’s varied outdoor activities and dip their toes into its unusual history.

History buffs should stop at Velenje’s fully renovated underground Museum of Coal-mining in Slovenia for a glimpse into the life of the region’s coal miners, who spent decades plunging 160 metres underground to dig for the “black gold”. The underground museum features a train and 15 life-sized models that bring Velenje’s mining past to life, using modern audiovisual technology.

Above ground, Velenje Lake perfectly encapsulates the city’s particular dichotomy – the natural reservoir formed as a result of lignite extraction in the mines, but has now become a centre for sports and other outdoor activities. To enjoy the fresh air on the water, rent a paddleboard or sailboat, or take a lounge break in the sun on the celebrated beach. You can take in the gorgeous scenery – rolling hills and sunken trees – on a group tour in a ‘pletna’ boat or electric boat.

Another of Velenje’s historical quirks is its massive statue of Marshal Tito, communist revolutionary and former President of Yugoslavia. Standing six metres tall on top of a four metre pedestal in Titov trg, it’s said to be the tallest statue of the communist revolutionary in the world. If you’re curious about the country’s socialist past, take a stroll from the statue to the former workers’ home, which was once a prominent gathering point for Velenje’s miners.

Celje boasts a rich history – from Ancient Roman Celeia, a commercial hub known as “second Troy,” to the City of Counts ruled by one of Europe’s most powerful noble families. Today, visitors can peel back these historical layers as they explore the town – both above and below street level.

Take a walk through the old town centre and you’ll find remnants of a Roman road, medieval towers, exceptional architectural heritage and modern squares with restaurants and boutiques where you can buy souvenirs made by local artists.

To dive into the era of the Counts of Celje, climb the hill in the town to get to Celje Castle – Slovenia’s largest medieval castle dating to the 12th century. This fortress housed Slovenia’s most influential dynasty. You can hear the legends of the Counts as you explore the halls. And if you’re lucky, you may even come across a re-enactment.

For glimpses into the city’s Roman past, venture underground to the archaeological exhibition “Celeia – a Town Beneath Today’s Town”. Located in the basement of the Prince’s Mansion in Celje, the site reveals how the city’s ancient residents lived – with amenities like toilets, sewage systems, communal baths, private spas, and ingenious heating systems. Archaeologists estimate only 10% of Roman Celeia has been uncovered, suggesting nearly every modern building in Celje sits above undiscovered historical treasures.

Located on the eastern edge of the country, Rogaška Slatina is renowned for its traditional glassblowing and unique mineral water, with the highest content of natural magnesium in the world. Take advantage of your time here to discover its fine crystal and world-class wellness culture, built around the Donat Mg spring that’s long been believed to have healing powers.

If you want to wind down after an exciting day of cycling, the health resort’s spas are ready to soothe your mind and body with anti-stress massages, nourishing mineral baths, and invigorating saunas. Soak in the mineral-rich natural spring water at the balneotherapy wellness centres, or quench your thirst with a mineral water drinking treatment.

You can access the medical centres and spas by strolling through Rogaška Slatina’s Spa Park, a 10,000 square metre green space in the heart of town with vibrant flower beds and verdant sycamores.

Aside from its mineral water, Rogaška Slatina is also world-famous for its glass production, a tradition that dates back 350 years. Rogaška Glass Factory is one of the largest glass manufacturers in the world, with the most glass blowers and manual glass grinders. Specialised in crystal, the factory’s products are still made by hand – you can get to know all the different stages of production and pick up some unique crystal souvenirs at the Rogaška Glassworks Sales Shop.

Before you go, don’t miss the tallest building in Slovenia – the 106-metre Kristal Observation Tower is a shining monument to the region’s industrial history, adorned with over 500 square metres of glass. Take in the spectacular view from the cafe at the top while sipping a hot cup of delicious Slovenian coffee.

Tucked at the foot of the Dravinja Hills, Majšperk beckons travellers with authentic rural Slovenian charm. This historic trade settlement invites visitors to step away from bustling city life and into a world where time seems to slow down.

The surrounding Haloze Hills are an outdoor playground for nature lovers. Hikers and cyclists can explore countless trails winding through this picturesque landscape, discovering breathtaking vistas of sun-dappled vineyards, heritage orchards, and verdant woodlands.

Majšperk itself is known for its well-preserved historical architecture, including the Church of St. Nicholas, which showcases elements from different architectural periods. The parish church dates to the 13th century and was rebuilt in 1639. Nearby, Hamre Castle stands as a testament to 18th-century elegance – this 1735 baroque manor offers visitors a glimpse into the settlement’s surprising cultural sophistication that goes beyond its agricultural roots.

For a unique cultural experience, arrange a visit to the Wool and Tapestry Museum housed in the former Majšperk Woolen Products Factory. This hidden gem preserves the art of textile craftsmanship – the craft has almost completely vanished from the region, despite being a thriving industry throughout Podravie in the 20th century. Though accessible only by appointment, the museum provides an intimate window into Slovenia’s industrial heritage that you’ll rarely find elsewhere.

Home to the UNESCO-recognised Kurentovanje carnival, a fantastical masked celebration for Mardi Gras, Ptuj is full of surprises. Nestled between wine-growing hills and the River Drava, Slovenia’s oldest town is where you can walk in the footsteps of Neolithic settlers and discover the modern joys of ancient history.

Start by taking in the best view from Ptuj’s castle hill, first settled in the Neolithic period (5th millennium BC). The medieval fortress dates back to the 11th century and houses a museum featuring Slovenia’s largest collection of musical instruments.

Located in the heart of Slovenia’s wine country, Ptuj is perfect for oenophiles. Visit Ptuj Wine Cellar, Slovenia’s oldest, to taste exceptional vintages from the Haloze Hills. The wine archive showcases precious treasures like the 1917 vintage Zlata trta (Golden Vine), considered Slovenia’s oldest wine. Don’t miss the country’s largest wooden barrel, capable of storing more than 22,115 litres of wine. Take a guided tour to taste some award-winning Ptuj wines and bring home your favourite bottle.

For Ancient Rome enthusiasts, the Poetovio open-air archaeological museum connects visitors with Ptuj’s history when it was known as Poetovio. This route reveals Roman relics across the city including the Orpheus Monument, a five-meter tall 3rd-century monolith decorated with mythological scenes. It’s the biggest tombstone in the Roman province of Pannonia, and weighs around 7 tonnes!

To pamper yourself like the Romans once did, visit Terme Ptuj spa for luxurious treatments inspired by Ancient Roman bathing traditions.

Nestled in the heart of Slovenia’s acclaimed Jeruzalem wine region, Ormož captivates visitors with its pristine landscapes and genuine local experiences. Take the time to explore the area and you’ll be rewarded.

The town’s cultural heartbeat is Ormož Castle, a beautifully restored medieval fortress now transformed into a vibrant hub housing art exhibitions, a library, and a regional museum. Even during a brief visit, the castle will give you invaluable insights into the town’s rich heritage. Don’t miss the inventive Cafe Repair Shop inside, where you can pick a coffee cup from a seemingly endless supply of vintage dishware. The concept is original – buy the cup, and the coffee is free! Take home your cup as a unique souvenir.

After wandering through the meticulously maintained Castle Park, grab a bicycle from the Tourist Information Centre housed within the castle. This perfect mode of transportation allows easy exploration of the town and surrounding countryside. 

One of the best places to discover the local wine culture is the Puklavec Family Wines cellar, which was built in 1967 and descends 25 metres underground. Arrange a tour to explore its seven floors housing 254,000 bottles of wine, which are preserved with cutting-edge technology. Visit their tasting room to sample the elegant wines that have given the region its stellar reputation among wine lovers.

Cycling south along the Drava River leads to the remarkable Ormož Basins Nature Reserve, a thriving wildlife sanctuary where water buffalo roam freely. This ecological gem has become a paradise for numerous bird species, offering nature lovers a tranquil escape into Slovenia’s biodiversity.

Slovenia’s second-largest city offers travellers remarkable experiences, from its celebrated gastronomy to the warmth of its residents. Recently recognised as Best European Green Capital for 2025, Maribor combines environmental consciousness with metropolitan appeal. Take advantage of the Stage 4 starting point to explore this modern metropolis.

To get to know the city better, join an organised tour led by friendly local guides. Themes range from wine tasting to explorations of the city’s underground tunnels and bridges. Book through the city’s website and get ready to learn some fun facts for your next dinner party.

Walking or using the Mbajk bike-sharing system lets you explore attractions like the Judgement Tower and Maribor Market. In Lent, the oldest district, you’ll encounter the world’s oldest grapevine – a 400-year-old “Žametovka” vine recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest vine still producing fruit. The mighty vine stretches across a building that’s become a hub for oenological activity in Maribor. Go inside to try some of the highest-quality wines from the Štajerska Slovenia wine-growing region.

Lent, once an ancient port for rafts and barges and a centre for the timber trade, offers a unique perspective when viewed from the River Drava. Hop on a small wooden raft called a “hlodovec” for an immersive historical experience led by a local guide. On a guided river rafting tour, you’ll get to steer the vessel, sample traditional foods, and hear tales of the legendary water god Gestrin.

Tucked in the shadow of the mighty Pohorje Hills, the town of Zreče is powered by nature. The popular wellness resort offers spa treatments inspired by its verdant surroundings, with plenty of natural wonders to explore nearby. It’s the perfect destination for some rest and relaxation ahead of the final stage of the Tour of Slovenia.

Take a self-care break at the Terme Zreče Spa, located near the spruce forest in town. Here, you can enjoy unique treatments that make the most of the region’s natural treasures. Peat baths and wraps use peat moss from Pohorje bogs, which is known for its healing properties and can improve circulation. Sink into the warm embrace of the thermal pools at the spa or revive sore muscles with a deep tissue massage featuring pouches of warm Pohorje herbs and aromatic oils.

The nearby Rogla mountain resort transforms into a green forested wonderland in the summer, and is intertwined with numerous trails and bike paths. For a unique experience in this pristine natural environment, head to the Pohorje Treetop Walkway, a 1000-metre-long elevated trail through the treetops. Accessible by wheelchair, the forest path is the only one of its kind in Slovenia and features a 62-metre high treetop slide and a 22-metre high “virtual abyss” for adrenaline junkies.

To try some local specialities and get a feel for the region’s vibrant social life, visit the Zreče farmer’s market, which takes place every Saturday from 7 am to 12 pm. Grab some freshly baked bread or traditional ‘pogača’ pastry and top with dried ‘bunka’ salami for a true Styrian delicacy. 

In the winter, Golte is one of Slovenia’s most popular ski resorts, beloved by athletes and amateurs alike. But come summertime, the mountain resort in the Upper Savinja Valley transforms into a paradise for nature lovers – with activities ranging from hiking to skydiving and mountain biking. 

First, take Slovenia’s longest cable car up to Golte Landscape Park, the starting point for a variety of outdoor adventures. The views from the cable car alone are worth the trip, and in just eight minutes you’ll be 1,000 metres above sea level. From here, a 20 minute walk will get you to Golte lake, where you can enjoy a picnic with a view of cattle grazing. Rent a standup paddleboard for an easy workout on the refreshing water.

There are many hiking trails on the Golte plateau, but one of the most unique is the hike to Smrekovec, the only volcano in Slovenia. The challenging hike to the extinct volcano is a great workout that will take you past sharp ridges and mountain streams. More casual hikers can try the Rabbit Trail, the easiest path on the Golte plateau that’s also suitable for children and four-legged friends. It goes past a small chapel, the Mozirska koča mountain hut and the Alpine Garden, a collection of more than 100 alpine plants from around the country.

To get some fresh air, you can try out a tandem paragliding flight with sweeping views of the Savinjska region, or test your climbing skills on the outdoor artificial climbing wall. And to spend a truly unique night in the area, book a stay in the stargazing domes on the Golte plateau. The partially-transparent domes offer an unobstructed view of stunning sunsets and glittering constellations, with modern comforts like air conditioning and a fully-equipped bathroom. There’s something to quench everyone’s thirst for outdoor adventure in Golte!

At the spot where the Sava River forms its largest bend, settlers built a thriving community that became the village of Litija. Today, the former mining settlement maintains its heritage through tourism – and generous locals are eager to share their rich history with visitors.

Life in Litija and the surrounding areas was once closely tied to the Sitarjevec mine, the main source of income for most residents until it closed in 1965. Today, the mine has become a modern underground museum, offering visitors unique insight into the geological diversity of the region. Sitarjevec is one of the richest mineral deposits in Europe, containing more than 60 different minerals. Book a tour in advance to explore the mine’s export pit, and try the traditional “Sitarjevec snack” or “dwarf šmorn”, Dwarf shredded pancake.

Another precious resource in the area was wood, which locals learned to process into top quality charcoal. The region’s charcoal burners became so famous that Dole pri Litiji began to be known as the “Land of Charcoal.” You can visit homesteads in the area to see this century-old tradition in action, and even participate in the charcoal burning yourself! 

Literature buffs can also walk the first portion of Levstik’s Trail, a 33 kilometre scenic hiking route inspired by Fran Levstik’s 1858 travelogue. The Slovenian writer, dramatist, poet, critic and linguist described his journey from Litija and Čatež in the seminal work, introducing his literary vision for Slovenia. Every November, hundreds of travellers walk the path together in honour of the writer. But summer also offers a verdant stroll across hills, meadows, forests and vineyards from the trail’s starting point in Litija.

Situated in the south of Slovenia, Dolenjska is famous for its rolling hills and deep wine culture. Locals are proud of the traditions and heritage they’ve passed on for generations, and they can’t wait to share their customs with curious travellers.

Wine isn’t just a product here, it’s a way of life. After the gruelling harvest season, local vintners gather with friends and family in their vineyard cottages – small wooden or brick cottages located in the heart of the grapevines. Today, many locals share this tradition with visitors: There are 40 different vineyard cottages in Dolenjska that invite tourists to experience the region’s landscape and wine culture. You can spend the night in the middle of a vineyard, or stop by to sample some of the best wines in the region from the owner’s wine cellar.

The region is home to the quirky Cviček wine, which is one of the rare wines in the world made from both red and white grape varieties. Also called Slovenian special wine, Cviček has a light red colour and a fresh fruity flavour that goes great with local traditional dishes. Visit the Izvir wine fountain to try some local Cviček with a platter of regional specialities in a sleekly designed outdoor setting.

For a buzzworthy experience, head to the API Beehive and Honey Garden outside Novo Mesto. The massive beehive is home to more than 30 bee families and features a honey garden made up of more than 100 species of honey plants, many of which are medicinal. Owner Andreja Stankovič, a biologist and beekeeper for over 40 years, shares her wisdom with visitors during tours and tastings. Call ahead and you could even book a honey massage, for some extra sweet relaxation.

Located off the beaten track in the heart of Slovenia, the charming village of Šentrupert offers a special blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the easygoing local lifestyle, and take a trip back in time at the region’s unique outdoor museum.

One of the most fascinating attractions in the area is the Land of Hayracks, where visitors can explore traditional drying structures and sample delicious local honey. The site features 19 drying devices from the Mirna Valley – all beautifully preserved by expert conservationists – and showcases the development of the hayrack across time. All six types of Slovenian hayracks are presented at the museum, including the oldest “Lukatov Toplar” from 1795, one of the oldest preserved double hayracks in the world. The experience gives visitors a privileged look at the region’s local agricultural heritage and offers 1 kilometre of trails to enjoy a leisurely walk in the sunshine.

Nearby Trebnje is also home to several historical landmarks that are worth a detour, including the 13th century Trebnje Castle. Its well-preserved architecture and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside make it a popular stop for both locals and tourists. You can further enjoy the region’s scenic landscapes by taking one of the numerous hiking or biking trails, which are adaptable to all levels. The Krka River is also a great place to stop for a picnic or try some water activities like kayaking and fishing.