Slovenia Travel Experience

The 16th edition of the Best of Local awards is here. Together with locals and everyone who loves Slovenia, we’re celebrating the destinations, attractions and experiences that make this country unforgettable. The Slovenia Travel Experience category shines a light on the people and places that help visitors discover Slovenia at its best.

A great trip is more than a list of sights. It might be an adventure in the mountains, a family day out, a hidden gem you can’t wait to share, or a relaxing escape by the sea. This category brings together experiences that reveal Slovenia’s nature, culture and local character.

We’re also celebrating tourism that cares for the places we love: experiences that respect the environment, support local communities and encourage visitors to explore responsibly.

Best Weekend Getaways in Slovenia

From Alpine valleys and wine-growing hills to historic towns and the landscapes of eastern Slovenia, these destinations show just how much you can experience during a short break in Slovenia.

The 2027 finalists are:

    • Goriška Brda
    • Škofja Loka & Poljane Valley
    • Soča Valley
    • Pomurje
    • Julian Alps
    • Kamnik & Tuhinj Valley
    • Posavje
    • Rogla & Pohorje
    • Logar Valley & Solčava
    • Bela Krajina

Best Hidden Gems in Slovenia

Some of Slovenia’s most memorable places are those still waiting to be discovered by a wider audience. These hidden gems offer authentic local experiences, beautiful landscapes and plenty of reasons to venture beyond the country’s best-known destinations.

The finalists are:

    • Cerknica
    • Mozirje
    • Trbovlje
    • Cirkulane
    • Miren, Kras
    • Tržič
    • Sveti Jurij ob Ščavnici
    • Litija
    • Šentrupert
    • Šmartno ob Paki

Best Outdoor Adventures in Slovenia

With mountains, rivers, forests, lakes and countless trails, Slovenia is made for adventure. This year’s finalists range from underground kayaking and rafting to cycling, hiking, skiing and wildlife experiences.

The finalists are:

  • Kayaking through the underground of Mount Peca
  • Rafting on the Soča, Alpine School, Bovec
  • Skiing at Krvavec
  • Olimpline Zipline, Črna na Koroškem
  • Brown Bear Watching in Snežnik Forest, Loška dolina
  • Drava Cycling Route
  • Adventure Park Geoss
  • Rowing with Olympic rowers on Lake Bled
  • Hiking on Nanos
  • Velika Planina

Best Family Trips in Slovenia

Looking for ideas for a family day out or weekend adventure? These finalists combine nature, animals, history, fun and hands-on experiences that both children and adults can enjoy.

The finalists are:

  • Arboretum Volčji Potok Botanic Garden
  • ZOO Ljubljana
  • Lipica Stud Farm
  • Neotropica, Postojna
  • Treasure of Pokljuka – Škrateljc
  • Treetop Walk Pohorje
  • Predjama Castle
  • Dolga njiva Alpine Pasture, Tržič
  • Jelenov Greben, Olimje
  • Military History Park, Pivka

Best Indoor Things to Do in Slovenia

Rainy day? No problem. Slovenia has plenty to discover indoors too, from interactive science centres and escape rooms to chocolate, brewing heritage and the fascinating underground world.

The finalists are:

  • WOOP!, Ljubljana
  • House of Experiments, Ljubljana
  • Center Noordung, Vitanje
  • Chocolarium Ljubljana
  • Union Experience, Ljubljana
  • Enigmarium Escape Room, Ljubljana
  • Carniolan Bee House, Višnja Gora
  • Tehnopark, Celje
  • Vulkanija, Grad
  • Škocjan Caves