It often feels like Slovenia has more castles than it does hotels. Every new city or town you arrive in, you’re almost certain to find an imposing castle. Often, they’re located high above the city looking down on the town folk. After travelling extensively throughout Slovenia this summer, I’ve compiled a list of the best castles to visit in Slovenia. These are the most impressive castles that are open to the public and one you can even stay in!
The Best Castles to Visit in Slovenia
Bled Castle
Chances are that if you’re travelling to Slovenia, you’re going to visit Bled. Lake Bled is one of the most iconic and idyllic locations in the entire country. Sitting pretty above the lake is the impressive medieval Bled Castle, the first castle in Bled. Nowadays it is open to the public as a living museum. To make the most of your visit, be sure to drop by the restaurant for lunch. It is here where you will find one of the best views over Lake Bled.
Ljubljana Castle
Slovenia’s capital city is home to one of the most visited castles in the country. Ljubljana Castle offers a brilliant view of the city below. If you can time your visit with sunrise or sunset, it is one of the best views in the city.
Plan your visit: A Guide to Ljubljana
Predjama Castle
The impressive Predjama castle is built into a cave mouth, making this one of the most spectacular castles in Slovenia. Just a short drive from Postojna caves, this castle is one of the more remote castles to visit. Despite its remote location, this castle attracts many visitors locally and from neighbouring countries. Combine your visit with a stop at the predjama caves for the ultimate experience in the southeast of Slovenia.
Otočec Castle
What makes Otočec Castle so special is that you can stay here. This beautifully refurbished castle is one of Slovenia’s most celebrated hotels. For the past decade has been welcoming travellers as royal guests. The castle is located in the southeast of the country which is much less visited by international tourists. Even in the summer months the castle is quiet on weekdays, making it a great escape. Looking to explore the region further? Check out some of the best Wine Tours in Slovenia.
Celje Castle
Celje is one of Slovenia’s major cities and the main attraction for travellers is Celje Castle. The castle ruins are open to visitors seven days. However, the castle itself is currently in the process of being restored. Celje itself can be considered a gate to visiting more of the south and southeast of the country. If you’re looking for more to see in this area, consider nearby Otočec Castle and Žužemberk Castle.
Žužemberk castle
Žužemberk Castle is my final suggestion to complete your castles of Slovenia tour. The castle is located in the southeast of Slovenia and originated in the 13th century. The present shape of the castle changed to protect against enemies in the 16th century.
Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.
