Top reasons to visit Slovenia in 2024
Fill your year with unparalleled adventures in Slovenia and check out the reasons why your next great story might just be waiting in Slovenia.
For each month of 2024, we are unveiling exciting stories waiting to be discovered and written about. Take a journey through these exciting ideas, pitch your own story and consider it an open invitation to explore the enchanting landscapes and experiences that Slovenia has to offer.
January
In Slovenia, the first month of 2024 brings a winter wonderland filled with exciting adventures. We're diving into the exhilarating world of skiing, including the 60th edition of the Golden Fox, exploring the architectural legacy of Jože Plečnik, and experiencing the warmth of Slovenian hospitality at the "I feel Slovenia Night" in Dallas.
Join us on a journey through these diverse and captivating topics, discovering the unique charm that Slovenia has to offer in the heart of winter.
Skiing and outdoor activities
Prepare for an unparalleled ski season in Slovenia! Ski resorts, such as Krvavec, Vogel, Golte, Rogla, Kope, Mariborsko Pohorje and many others, are awaiting you with a series of thrilling upgrades.
The mountains are calling, and a winter adventure like never before awaits you in the Slovenian Alps.
11 new ski lifts for the 2023/2024 season
More than 10 large ski centres and more than 30 smaller ski resorts
15 active ski schools with professional instructors
6 venues for major international winter sports competitions
The single SKI PASS SLOVENIA connects several Slovenian ski resorts
Architectural visionary
Jože Plečnik, a visionary architect, left an indelible mark on the urban landscape of Vienna, Prague, and his most cherished canvas, Ljubljana.
Plečnik's daring architectural and urban planning endeavours turned Ljubljana into a masterpiece, a cityscape woven with his artistic vision. Many of his masterpieces have found their place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.
In January, we pay homage to Jože Plečnik, commemorating both his birth on January 23, 1872, and his legacy, as he departed on January 7, 1957. Discover the compelling story of this visionary architect.
I Feel Slovenia Night in Dallas
On Monday, January 22 2024, Slovenia will be celebrated at the home match of Dallas Mavericks vs. Boston Celtics at the third “I Feel Slovenia” Night at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. The basketball game will feature the NBA team of the amazing Slovenian player, Luka Dončić.
I feel Slovenia Night is part of a partnership agreement with the Dallas Mavericks. A set of unique events to promote business, sports, science and tourism opportunities for the American market in Slovenia will also take place in Dallas, Texas.
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February
Culture and Historical Cities are one of the four leading tourist products, which form a crucial component of the Slovenian Tourism Strategy 2022-2028. In 2024 and 2025, art and culture will be the main communication theme.
The Slovenian Tourist Board (STB) will employ a captivating array of communication channels and tools to unveil Slovenia as a modern, creative and irresistible cultural tourism destination. Get ready for a fusion of Slovenian art and culture and embark on a cultural journey that will leave you spellbound and yearning for more.
It's a date. With culture.
Step into a whirlwind of vibrant cultural happenings in 2024! Dive into a myriad of festival celebrations, delight in world-class performances on Slovenian stages, and explore the contemporary creative essence showcased in highlighted exhibitions and biennales.
GO! 2025 Nova Gorica — Gorizia
Nova Gorica, a city born anew in the aftermath of World War II, when the delineation of the border between Italy and Slovenia took shape, and Gorizia, a hub of culture, administration, and economy, steeped in ancient history, will join forces in the GO! Borderless project and become the European Capital of Borderless Culture.
The vision is clear: to harmonize the rich heritage of a modernist city and a millennia-old city, crafting a story that transcends their historical divides through a journey of reconciliation.
March
In Slovenia, March emerges as a bridge between the frosty winter and the blossoming spring. At the heart of this transition stands a unique celebration known as Gregorjevo (St. Gregory's Day), a Slovenian counterpart to St. Valentine's Day, observed on 12 March. Legend has it that on this special day, the birds take flight into the skies to embark on their enchanting courtship rituals.
Thus, March in Slovenia emerges not merely as a transition between seasons, but as a month where nature's wonders seamlessly intertwine with cultural celebrations, creating a harmonious symphony of romance, love and the anticipation of new beginnings.
Love is in the air
Slovenia invites couples to discover its beauty through enchanting destinations, delectable cuisine and indulgent spa experiences. Wellness resorts entice with irresistible pampering packages, while charming towns unveil romantic spots for leisurely strolls.
Elevate your dining experience with original locations in unconventional places, as they say, the way to the heart is through the stomach. Captivated by Slovenia's beauty, you might even choose it as the perfect backdrop to say your "I do".
LUV
The LUV festival celebrates the true essence of love. Discover an array of exciting events and experiences taking place in Ljubljana from February 8 to March 12.
ITB Berlin 2024
The world’s leading travel trade show will once again take place LIVE at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds from 5 to 7 March 2024. Slovenian destinations and providers will represent themselves at the Slovenian stand in Hub 27.
April
April marks a special month dedicated to celebrating the essence of Slovenia's green story—a story woven with conservation, tradition, and a commitment to a sustainable future.
Celebrating a Century of Conservation
In 2024, Triglav National Park, the jewel nestled within the Julian Alps and a cornerstone of Slovenian nature conservation, marks a significant milestone — its 100th anniversary. The celebration is rooted in the signing of the lease agreement in 1924, establishing the Alpine Conservation Park as a response to mounting threats from increased human influence during the industrial revolution.
Slovenia's nature parks
Slovenia is home to over 22,000 species of animals and plants, making it one of the most biodiverse countries globally. With more than a third of its land under protection in the Natura 2000 network, Slovenia is committed to preserving its rich natural ecosystems and rare species.
May
On May 1, 2004, Slovenia marked a historic milestone as it officially became a full member of the European Union, standing among ten countries from Central and Eastern Europe.
Marking the central event of 20 years of Slovenia in the EU, a national celebration is scheduled for May 9, 2024, in Nova Gorica.
Slovenia's Culinary Triumph
In the recent years, Slovenia has risen in popularity among gourmands and foodies, also thanks to the prestigious Michelin Guide, which has solidified Slovenia's global culinary presence. With an impressive number of 9 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one with three stars and another with two, along with seven one-star restaurants, Slovenia stands among the 146 countries with three-star recognition. Remarkably, only 8 of these restaurants are led by female chefs and Ana Roš from Hiša Franko is among them. What will 2024 bring?
Celebrate World Bee Day in your own way.
Following a Slovenian initiative, 20 May is now celebrated as World Bee Day. Slovenia’s beekeeping traditions have deep roots. Slovenian beekeepers have shared their wealth of knowledge of beekeeping all over the world, and today we are creating unique experiences with innovative approaches. Join us in the celebration of World Bee Day, learn about the beekeeping tradition and enjoy various experiences related to bees and honey.
June
Slovenia, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasts a passionate community of hikers, cyclists, and runners, reflecting the country's commitment to healthy living and a sporting spirit.
With a growing number of enthusiasts each year, Slovenia's emphasis on an active lifestyle resonates in every aspect of its culture. The nation's abundance of top athletes, achieving remarkable success on the global stage, positions Slovenia as a sporting phenomenon.
Tour of Slovenia
In 2024, the Tour of Slovenia marks its 31st anniversary, with this year's race being the 30th edition, as it was canceled once due to the epidemic.
Cyclists will once again hit the Slovenian roads from June 12 to 16 for this prestigious event.
Slovenian Thermal Spas
Slovenia, a land of healthy water, boasts thermal and mineral springs that serve as fountains of health and well-being.
Whether you seek the tranquil ambiance of the Pannonian Plain, the unique allure of the Karst Region, the majestic beauty of the Alps, or the coastal charm of the Mediterranean, our thermal spas offer diverse experiences.
From healing treatments to preventive care, wellness to selfness – your ideal Slovenian health resort awaits, tailored to your desired region, bodily requirements, innermost desires, and family expectations.
July
Traditionally in July, we unveil a roundup of newly opened accommodations and exciting renovations (from July 2023 onwards). Whether you're drawn to the vibrant energy of a bustling city or the serene charm of a secluded paradise, these additions to Slovenia's hospitality scene cater to every traveler's desires, offering a diverse range of options.
August
In Slovenia, August unfolds with a diverse array of engaging topics: from lively summer festivals, rejuvenating wellness retreats, serene lakeside or seaside escapes or exciting outdoor adventures.
Additionally, the sporting spirit takes centre stage as Slovenia cheers for its athletes participating in the Summer Olympics in Paris, providing an excellent opportunity to delve into the country's passionate sports culture.
Ready to shine: Slovenian athletes in Paris 2024
Excitement builds as we look forward to the Slovenian athletes shining in Paris 2024. Fueled by their impressive track record and recent accomplishments, we're filled with optimism as the Olympic stage unfolds from July 26 to August 11. With the world's athletes coming together, our Slovenian sports stars are ready to showcase their skills, confidently aiming for exceptional achievements that will undoubtedly fill our nation with pride.
The Idrija Žlikrofi Festival
The Idrija Žlikrofi Festival is a first-class culinary experience, which reinvents the traditional Idrija dish with a modern touch. Celebrated annually on the penultimate Saturday in August, the festival showcases certified producers of Idrija žlikrofi, offers tastings of innovative sauces by local chefs, hosts a competition among hunting families in the preparation of venison bákalca and provides a delightful setting for a casual gathering with top winemakers, microbrewers, and žlikrofi enthusiasts. This year, the festival will take place on 24 August.
Savouring Slovenian Tradition
Explore the tourism destinations through local cuisine and traditional dishes. Keep an eye out for the dishes with a protected designation of origin or traditional specialty guaranteed labels.
MorePotica, a traditional dessert
During holidays, Slovenia is especially fragrant with the tempting aroma of potica, the most typical Slovenian dessert. However, this dessert appears in many different forms. It gets its flavour from about 80 different fillings. The most common potica is the walnut potica.
MoreHoney for sweet moments and well-being
In Slovenian cuisine, you will find honey around every corner. In the past it was mainly used as a sweetener, but nowadays it is found in a wide variety of dishes. Honey gives dishes a special taste and has positive effects on our well-being. Treat yourself to a spoonful of it.
MoreSeasoned with love
The taste of dishes typical for Slovenia and for particular gastronomic regions is enhanced by fresh and local herbs and spices. Slovenian salt, produced in the northernmost traditional salt pans still operating in the Mediterranean, holds a special place among them.
MoreWhen you visit Slovenia, you get potatoes!
That Slovenians love potatoes is evident from the fields where local varieties are grown, as well as from restaurant menus where potato dishes are the most common side dish.
MoreSeptember
September in Slovenia promises a diverse range of exciting travel experiences. It invites you to embark on hikes through picturesque wine regions and attend vibrant harvest festivals. It encourages leisurely strolls through historical towns, exploration of caves or relaxation at renowned thermal spas. Additionally, it encourages enthusiasts to celebrate sports, as the Day of Slovenian Sport is observed every 23 September.
Best autumn family holidays at spa resorts
MoreTop reasons for an autumn visit to wine-producing Slovenia
MoreRambling through the colourful setting of autumn
MoreHints for the best autumn experience in Slovenia
MoreAn active autumn in Slovenia
MoreAutumn gastronomic events in Slovenia
MoreHiking trails with stunning views of autumn landscapes
MoreOctober
As the pace of life slows down in autumn, seize the perfect opportunity to indulge in spa pampering and embark on a rejuvenating journey for both your body and mind. In your quest to elevate well-being and extend vitality, spas become a sanctuary where wellness practices, therapeutic treatments, and serene surroundings converge, fostering a balanced and enduring approach to life.
The holistic nature of spa experiences extends beyond mere relaxation, playing a pivotal role in nurturing a sustainable foundation for long-term health and longevity.
November
November is dedicated to wine, as St. Martin's Day, celebrated on November 11, holds special significance in Slovenia. Known as "Martinovanje," this festive occasion is deeply rooted in Slovenian traditions and customs.
Also, did you know that Maribor is home to the oldest vine in the world. At more than 450 years, it is the only plant boasting its own museum – the Old Vine House. Maribor hosts a number of events celebrating the Old Vine, such as the Pruning of the Old Vine, St. Martin’s Day, and the Old Vine Festival. Believe it or not, the Old Vine even has its own anthem, and the locals are only too keen to let you hear it.
November is also the month when Slovenia proudly presents itself at the world's largest travel trade market, WTM London. Connect with our co-exhibitors at WTM, learn about Slovenia’s tourism products and discover new and unique business opportunities.
December
December in Slovenia is a magical time marked by festive traditions and charming Christmas markets. Towns come alive with twinkling lights, while locals and visitors enjoy the delights served at Christmas markets.
In Postojna Cave, the spotlight in December is on the live nativity scene, which transforms the cave into the grandest Christmas and New Year spectacle in Slovenia.