Triglav National Park: Day Trips and Tours from Ljubljana

The only national park in Slovenia, Triglav covers over 800 square kilometers and is filled with a smattering of alpine lakes, and dense pine thickets, set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will jump at the chance to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind, and visit this verdant oasis nestled in the Alps.

Day trips to Triglav National Park from Ljubljana offer a new perspective of Slovenia and allow you to connect with Mother Nature.

Here's all you need to know about Triglav National Park, one of the most exciting day trips from Ljubljana.

How to get to Triglav National Park from Ljubljana?

Triglav National Park is located in the northwestern part of Slovenia and forms part of the Julian Alps. It is approximately 80 kilometers from Ljubljana.

From Ljubljana to Triglav National Park by car

The journey to Triglav National Park takes just under 1.5 hours and begins by heading north out of Ljubljana along the E61. As you pass Lesce, you’ll turn onto Ljubljanska Cesta, which takes you as far as Bled, before utilizing Seliška Cesta and Rečiška Cesta to head toward the mountains. You’ll follow signs for Spodnje Gorje and from there, take Route 905, which leads you the rest of the way into Triglav National Park.

From Ljubljana to Triglav National Park by bus

Those without access to a car can make the jaunt to Triglav National Park via public transportation instead. There is a direct bus that links Ljubljana and Lake Bohinj — located in the reserve — which departs from Tivoli Park several times a day, and takes approximately 2 hours to reach the destination.

Guided tour to Triglav National Park from Ljubljana

Alternatively, many people choose to book a guided excursion to Triglav National Park and allow someone else to arrange their transportation details. These tours usually last between 9 and 12 hours depending on the additional destinations you visit, and meet at an easy-to-reach destination in the city between 7 AM and 9 AM. If you book a private day trip, you’ll be collected from your hotel instead.

What is the typical itinerary?

Each Triglav National Park day trip features its own unique itinerary. However, they all share some similarities. After meeting your guide, you’ll board your vehicle and set off on a comfortable ride away from the city, and into the mountains. On your way to the park, you may stop at Lake Bled — one of the most famed natural attractions in the country — where you can discover the castle that overlooks the water and hop on a traditional wooden boat to see the Church of Mary of the Assumption.

Once you reach Triglav National Park, you’ll visit a host of landmarks, some of which include Lake Bohinj and Planica Valley. You’ll typically wander these destinations on foot, which enables you to gain the most from the experience by roaming areas that are inaccessible to vehicles.

While a meal is not included in most Triglav National Park day tours, these excursions last all day and so you’ll have a dedicated lunch stop carved out of your itinerary. Once you’ve explored the region thoroughly, you’ll return to Ljubljana where your day trip ends.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Triglav National Park?

There are several different types of Triglav National Park day tours to choose from.

Guided tours to Triglav National Park from Ljubljana

Watch the city skyline be replaced by lofty mountains and deep valleys as you travel into the Julian Alps where Triglav National Park is located. While the drive is lengthy, you’ll enjoy regular stops along the way to stretch your legs and admire the breathtaking scenery of this corner of Slovenia.

Upon arrival at Triglav National Park, you’ll participate in a series of invigorating hikes to remarkable natural attractions, including the tranquil waters of Lake Bohinj, as well as the tumbling Pericnik Waterfall and the cavernous canyon of Vintgar Gorge. You’ll also pay a visit to the charming alpine village of Mojstrana, which is popular among skiers in the wintertime before heading back to Ljubljana.

Private tour to Triglav National Park plus the Alps from Ljubljana

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more personal touch, book a guided excursion. Your first stop on this Triglav National Park day tour is the ski resort of Kranjska Gora, where you can take leisurely stroll around the peaceful waters of Jasna Lake and discover Slovenian history at a local homestead.

Moving on, you’ll make your way to the wetlands of Zelenci Nature Reserve, which is home to an array of birdlife, as well as snakes. Lastly, you’ll journey to Planica Valley where, depending on the time of year, you can participate in a handful of thrilling winter sports, including sledding, zip lining and snowshoeing. Those who prefer a peaceful experience over an adrenaline rush can simply take in the views that stretch across the Tamar Valley, surrounded by soaring peaks.

Day trip to Triglav National Park plus Lake Bled from Ljubljana

As part of a small group, you’ll begin your Triglav National Park day trip by visiting the iconic Lake Bled, famed for the picturesque 12th-century church that sits in its center. You’ll then journey to the cliffside Bled Castle to explore its opulent rooms and chapel frescoes.

Head off the tourist trail to the largest lake in Slovenia, Bohinj, which is located off the beaten path in the heart of Triglav National Park. After soaking in this serene slice of paradise, you'll move on to Vintgar Gorge, which carves out the landscape for over 1.5 kilometers and features towering canyon walls of up to 100 meters.

How much does a day trip to Triglav National Park from Ljubljana cost?

The most budget-friendly day tours to Triglav National Park include Lake Bled and cost between €90, and €100 per adult. Children between the ages of 2 and 12 pay half the adult rate, and your group will include no more than eight travelers. You’ll be responsible for all entrance fees.

Alternatively, if you choose a day trip to Triglav National Park that focuses solely on this region, you’ll pay approximately €120 per person of any age. You must book for a minimum of two guests and you can expect the excursion to cover all entrance fees.

Private tours cost €640 per group of up to eight participants. With the maximum number of guests in your party, you’ll each pay just €80. While this excursion includes round-trip transportation and the services of a knowledgeable guide, all admission fees are at your own expense, as well as any additional activities, such as snowshoeing or sledding.

What will you see and do?

Officially named a national park in 1981, Triglav is a natural wonderland, providing a home for a wealth of flora and fauna within the Julian Alps. From roaring waterfalls to famous ski slopes and crystalline lakes, the park is one of the most diverse places in Slovenia.

There are no less than 19 endemic plants in the region, which include the golden yellow Triglav hawksbeard, as well as the Julian poppy and Zois' bellflower, the latter of which is often associated with everlasting love. Because of its vast and largely untouched lands, Triglav National Park is the ideal habitat for many woodland creatures, including brown bears, wolves, and Eurasian lynx.

One of the most visited spots in the park is Lake Bohinj, which is the largest body of water in Slovenia and contains almost 100 million cubic meters of water. Visitors on a Triglav National Park day trip can amble around the banks of the lake, admiring its vast size. Surrounding the glacial lake is a church dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, which features both Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

Planica Valley is popular among winter sports enthusiasts and serves as a ski resort. It is famed for ski jumping events, which have taken place there since the first ski jumping hill was constructed in 1930.

When is the best time to visit Triglav National Park?

Overall, the best times to visit Triglav National Park are spring and autumn when the weather is nice and the park is less crowded. However, winter is also a great time to visit if you are interested in winter sports or just want to experience the park's snowy landscape. Plan according to your interests and favorite outdoor activities.

Are there any tours to Triglav National Park from other cities in Slovenia?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Slovenia:

• Day Trips to Triglav National Park from Bled

Travel tips

• Wear layers so you can adapt your clothing to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Weather in Triglav National Park can be unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes.
• Drink enough during the warmer months when the sun is more intense. There is natural spring water in the park, but if you want to drink it, it is recommended to bring a water filter.
• Triglav National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Please respect the environment by walking on designated trails, avoiding littering, and observing wildlife from a safe distance.
• Check the local weather forecast before setting off. Weather conditions in the mountains can change quickly, so it's important to be prepared for possible storms and bad weather.
• Pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and snacks.
• Certain areas of Triglav National Park have been designated as wildlife sanctuaries. Please respect these areas and follow the restrictions and guidelines that apply to protect their natural habitat.