Central Slovenia is a region full of surprises. Its mix of lush valleys, mountain views, historic villages, and delicious wines makes it an ideal place to explore through guided tours. Whether you’re after an outdoor adventure, a taste of local wines, or a cultural stroll, this region offers something for every interest. We especially love the kayaking trip on the Sava River for its refreshing perspective on Slovenia’s landscape, and the Velika Planina tour for a scenic mountain experience. If you want to blend food and culture, the Michelin-star dinner experience is a highlight. With so many options, it’s worth choosing tours that match your interests and energy level.
Below, you’ll find our curated list of the 7 best tours in Central Slovenia, each with its own unique charm. From adrenaline-filled activities to relaxed tastings, these experiences showcase the best of what this region has to offer. Click the links to learn more about each, and start planning your adventures now.
1. Bled: kayaking trip on the river Sava
Paddling down the Sava River offers a fantastic way to see Central Slovenia from a different angle. This 3.5-hour kayaking trip combines fun, safety, and stunning views of the Julian Alps and Karavanke mountain range. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, you can choose guided trips or lessons tailored to your skill level. The tour includes all necessary equipment and transportation from a nearby starting point, making it easy to just show up and paddle.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of outdoor activity with scenery. The emerald waters of the Sava are both refreshing and visually striking, especially with mountain vistas in the background. The itinerary includes a quick stop for local snacks, giving you a taste of authentic flavors after your paddle. Reviewers love the safety focus and the friendly, knowledgeable guides, earning it a perfect 5/5 from six reviews.
Bottom Line: If you want an active, scenic, and safe introduction to Slovenia’s waterways, this kayaking trip is a top choice. It’s especially good for those who want to combine adventure with sightseeing.
2. E-bike tour Soča valley: The ultimate explorer
For around $102, the E-bike tour of the Soča Valley offers an excellent way to cover a lot of ground while soaking in some of Slovenia’s most breathtaking scenery. Over a 5-hour guided ride, you’ll explore hidden corners of the Soča River Gorge, Bovec, and other scenic stops like Slap Virje. The tour includes several stops for sightseeing and a picnic break, making it perfect for those who want to combine active exploration with relaxation.
The guide’s ability to set a good pace is frequently praised, ensuring that both leisurely riders and more energetic cyclists enjoy the experience. The tour also offers an opportunity to taste local foods prepared by your guide, adding a culinary dimension to the adventure. Reviewers repeatedly mention how the trip reveals the hidden treasures of the valley, with one saying, “This is the best way to embrace the treasures of Soča.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a full-day adventure in the mountains, complemented by local flavors and spectacular views.
3. Goriška Brda: Wine Tasting with Local Snacks
At number 3, the Wine Tasting with Local Snacks in Goriška Brda is a delightful experience for lovers of good wine and good company. This 1.5-hour tasting involves sampling estate-produced wines paired with local cold cuts and cheese. You can choose to enjoy your tasting in a vineyard, winery, cozy gazebo, or lounge — all set against the picturesque landscape of this famous wine region.
The hosts are passionate about their craft, sharing insights into the unique terroir that influences Brda’s wines. One visitor remarked on the hospitality and the quality of the wines: “The wines are very good and you can taste their uniqueness compared to other regions.” The experience also includes a brief overview of Brda’s history, making it both educational and enjoyable.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed, authentic tasting experience in a stunning setting. It offers excellent value for the quality of wines and hospitality.
4. From Ljubljana: Velika Planina Tour with Meal & Photos
For a scenic escape from Ljubljana, the Velika Planina Tour combines mountain views, traditional culture, and memorable photos. The 6-hour tour starts with a scenic gondola and chairlift ride to the alpine plateau, where you can stroll among traditional wooden huts and listen to cowbells echoing across the meadows. A local shepherd’s meal of sour milk and buckwheat žganci is served, and your guide will help you capture professional-quality photos of this beautiful landscape.
What makes this tour special is the blend of natural beauty and cultural authenticity. Walking among traditional wooden houses with grazing cows offers a glimpse into rural Slovenian life. The inclusion of professional photography ensures you return home with lasting memories. The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of gentle activity and cultural insight in a stunning setting.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for families, photographers, or anyone wanting a taste of mountain life with a delicious meal and panoramic views.
$293 per person
5. Goriška Brda: Wine Walk and Tasting
Another fantastic experience in Brda is the Wine Walk and Tasting, which lasts around 2 hours. This tour takes you through the vineyards, where you learn about the grapevine’s lifecycle, vineyard practices, and wine production. You’ll visit a winery and enjoy tasting five wines paired with local delicacies, all while walking through scenic vineyards.
The guide’s explanations provide insight into the region’s climate and soil influence, adding depth to the tasting. One reviewer noted, “This is a great way to learn about winegrowing while enjoying beautiful scenery.” The small-group setting makes it intimate, ideal for those who want a laid-back, educational experience.
Bottom Line: Suited for wine lovers and curious travelers who want to explore Brda’s landscapes and wine culture at a relaxed pace.
$51 per person
6. Ljubljana: Michelin Star Experience, dinner and tour
At number 6, the Michelin Star Experience combines culinary excellence with cultural exploration. Over 6 hours, you’ll visit a family-run duck farm, learn about traditional farming methods, and enjoy a multi-course menu featuring local ingredients. The tour includes wine and meat aging rooms and a guided walk through Ljubljana’s culinary scene.
This experience is perfect for foodies looking for high-quality, innovative Slovenian cuisine with a story behind each dish. One review highlights the atmosphere: “The wines are excellent, and the food is paired beautifully.” The combination of farm visits, tasting, and cultural insight makes this a memorable, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for discerning diners and those interested in Slovenia’s culinary traditions, with an emphasis on regional ingredients and craftsmanship.
$163 per person
7. Šmartno: Village Walking Tour with Local Guide
Concluding our list is the Šmartno Village Walking Tour, a one-hour stroll through this charming fortified village. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore the seven towers of the old fortress, admire colorful church paintings, and take selfies in photogenic spots. It’s a quick but rich culture, perfect for travelers wanting a taste of rural life and history without a full-day commitment.
This tour appeals to those interested in architecture and local stories, with a focus on small details like the meaning behind church paintings. It’s accessible and easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. Reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the village’s Instagram-worthy vistas.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers short on time but eager to experience the charm and history of a traditional Slovenian village.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If outdoor adventure is your priority, the kayaking trip or e-bike tour are excellent options. For wine lovers, the Brda wine tastings offer different approaches—relaxing in a vineyard or wandering the vineyards on foot. Food enthusiasts should consider the Michelin-star dinner for a high-end culinary experience, while culture seekers will enjoy the Šmartno walking tour or the Velika Planina for cultural and scenic richness.
When planning, think about your budget, time constraints, and physical activity preference. Book early, especially in summer, to secure your spot on popular tours like Velika Planina or the wine tastings.
Final Thoughts
Central Slovenia offers a diverse range of tours that showcase its natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural heritage. For a quick outdoor escape, the kayaking trip on the Sava is a winner. If you prefer mountain vistas and traditional villages, the Velika Planina tour offers an authentic experience. Wine lovers can indulge in tastings in Brda, with options to relax in a vineyard or explore on foot. For those craving a more luxurious experience, the Michelin-star dinner combines Slovenia’s best ingredients with fine dining.
No matter your taste, these tours provide memorable ways to connect with Slovenia’s diverse landscapes and traditions. Book early to secure your preferred dates and enjoy a trip filled with authentic, well-curated experiences.