Slovenia River Cruises 2023/2024

Slovenia Travel Guide

Slovenia River Cruises Things To Do

• 
  Koper

  Known as Slovenia's largest coastal town, Koper sits close to the Italian border and therefore conveys an Italian influence. The town's street signs provide directions in both Italian and Slovenian. Some of the major sites include the Titov trg square, located in Old Town, and the city's Praetorian Palace. Both sites are symbols of Koper's past and are prime examples of fifteenth-century Venetian-type architecture.

  Best Time To Visit

  If you want to save money and sail when there aren't as many crowds, choose to go in September or October.

   

  You Should Know

  Located in the city square, the Praetorian Palace was initially constructed from two older houses, built in the thirteenth century, which were connected by a loggia. After many rebuilds, the structure was completed as a Gothic Venetian palace. It now serves as the location of the tourist office in Koper. The Cathedral of the Assumption, which was built in the late 1100s, has one of the oldest bells in Slovenia. The bell was cast in 1333 by Nicolo and Martino of Venice. The church's upper terrace, when open, provides a panoramic view of the Bay of Trieste.
• 
  Piran

  Piran lies along Slovenia's Adriatic coast and is a good day trip from Koper. It is known for its Venetian-styled buildings and its long pier. Notable structures on the city's Tartini Square include the Red Venetian House in a Gothic design and the frescoed Tartini House.

  Best Time To Visit

  Plan to visit Piran during October, when the river cruise rates are lower and so are the crowds.

   

  You Should Know

  Piran's Tartini House is the birthplace of the famous violinist Giuseppe Tartini. The town hall, built in the 1800s, highlights a stone lion, a representation of the former Republic of Venice. Stop by St. George's Cathedral, which features marble altars and lovely paintings from the seventeenth century.
• 
  Bovec

  An excursion to the picturesque and Alp town of Bovec seems like a scene from a Hansel and Gretel fairy tale. The town is surrounded by the crystal stream of the Soca River and the grandeur peaks of the Slovenian Alps. If you love to hike, you will find this excursion to be well worth your time.

  Best Time To Visit

  Mark your calendar to see Bovec during September or October, or in the summer, as it is a good place to stay cool from the heat.

   

  You Should Know

  The area's Boka Waterfall is the country's highest cascade and is a great destination for hikers. The Kluze Fortress was built in 1472. It was used to defend the town from invading Turks.
• 
  Kobarid

  A noted settlement in Slovenia, Kobarid is home to the Kobarid Museum, an award-winning site that features the story of World War I through its exhibits and displays. It is also the home of the Napoleon Bridge, a popular tourist attraction that spans across the narrowest section of the Soca Gorge.   

  Best Time To Visit

  Pack your travel bag or backpack and visit the attraction in September or October.  

   

  You Should Know

  In 1917, Kobarid was the location of the Battle of Caporetto. The Italian retreat during the conflict was recorded in A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway. The battle is documented, as well, in Kobarid's award-winning museum. Kobarid is home to a cheese-making museum. The attraction has received special recognition for its world-class eateries, which are part of the settlement's Gastronomic Circle. You can sample local cuisine at the Jestival Festival, held in October.
• 
  Tolmin

  The largest town in the Soca River Valley, Tolmin sits at the meeting point of the Soca and Tolminka streams. Close to the town lies the Tolmin Gorges, which is the lowest access point to Triglav National Park. Trails carved into the gorges direct trekkers to the park.

  Best Time To Visit

  Visit the town in the summer or fall, or during one of the town's many festivals, such as Metaldays or the Over Jam International Reggae Days, held toward the end of July and August, respectively.

   

  You Should Know

  Tolmin is known for its many festivals, so if you want to find a place that is well-revered for its celebrations, you will find it in Tolmin. The wooden church on the hill Javorca, known as the Church of the Holy Spirit, is situated over the Polog plateau. The memorial church commemorates the soldiers that fell during the Battles of Isonzo during the First World War.Tolmin was honored as the Alpine Town of the Year in 2016.
• 
  The Lakeside Town of Bled

  The town of Bled, next to Lake Bled, can only be described as a true hidden Slovenian gem. Not only can you cycle in this small lakeside town, you can also drop in at the charming coffee shops and boutiques. The town is located beside Lake Bled at the foothills of the Julian Alps – a place where outdoor activities abound.

  Best Time To Visit

  Every part of the year offers a certain excitement when you visit Bled. During the summer you can canoe while winters give you a chance to ice skate on the adjacent lake.

   

  You Should Know

  Take a ride in a traditional Slovenian boat, called a plenta, around peaceful Lake Bled. The stunning baroque Church of the Assumption stands in the center of Lake Bled on an island.
• 
  Ljubljana

  There are too many sights and attractions in Ljubljana to ignore. The capital of Slovenia is recognized for its university population, including the Ljubljanica River that runs along with the city's outdoor cafes, and serves as a border between Old Town and the city's commercial district. A walk through the capital allows you to see its many vibrant and colorful buildings, its triple bridges over the Ljbljanica River, and its Central Market.

  Best Time To Visit

  The best time to see Ljubljana is in the fall when it is not crowded and the climate is more temperate.

   

  You Should Know

  Ljubljana won recognition—the European Green Capital Award—in 2016. The award distinguishes the city for its well-laid-out cycling and pedestrian paths, and the city's clean and large green spaces. Free historical walking tours are regularly offered in Ljubljana. Explore one of the graffiti-covered neighborhoods in the city, such as Metelkova.
• 
  Maribor

  Second only to Ljubljana, Maribor is Slovenia's largest city. Situated close to the border of Austria, it stretches along the banks of the Drava River. Known for its wine-growing and recreational opportunities, Maribor offers visitors to Slovenia plenty to see and do.

  Best Time To Visit

  Travel during the summer when the vineyards are green and the grapes are growing.

   

  You Should Know

  Maribor is home to the oldest vine in the world, or the Stara trta, which dates back more than 450 years. Lovers of wine won't want to miss a tour of the Old Vine House or the large Vinag Wine Cellar. Maribor boasts several charming squares, including Castle Square, Main Square, and Slomskov Square.

Slovenia River Cruise Packages

Slovenia River Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

• What Are Slovenia River Cruises?

  Slovenia river cruises take one of the various forms. Some primarily focus on traveling to Slovenia towns and cities while adding well-known river cruise destinations in Italy, Hungary, or Croatia. The all-inclusive river cruises can last a week or two or more weeks at a time. It just depends on the river cruise line, the number of ports, and the types of side excursions that are planned. You receive all your meals and beverages free onboard, and can participate in regular off-shore activities.

• What Is Included on Slovenia River Cruises?

  Slovenia river cruises cover a number of European ports, primarily cities or towns in Italy, Austria, and the Swiss Alps, as well s Slovenia. The river cruises allow you to sight-see in Slovenia and its neighboring countries while taking advantage of activities, such as hiking and cycling. Some of the outdoor excursions include hikes to waterfalls or canoeing. You receive Wi-Fi on board the ship as well as three free meals per day, including complimentary beverages.

• What’s the Best River Cruise of Slovenia River Cruises?

  Check with your tour representative to find the best Slovenia river cruise for you – one that permits you to participate in activities that meet your specific interests and abilities. Many of the off-board excursions in Slovenia involve hiking, so you should be reasonably fit. When you do find a river cruise that offers a list of amenities that meet your expectations, you have chosen the best river cruise for you.

• What Is the Cost of Slovenia River Cruises?

  The cost for this type of river cruise, when taken during the fall, for instance, is around $10,000 per person if your sail date is toward the end of October. This price represents a luxury river cruise price that covers about two weeks. Check if the river cruise line also features discounts.