Slovenia Sightseeing

Ljubljana
Take your time wandering the streets of the country's capital. The Ljubljana River runs through the city with al fresco cafés on the bank promenades, great for people watching and refueling. Structures and buildings you shouldn't miss are the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers, the Town Hall and the Skyscraper.

Metelkova
For those interested in cutting edge art visit Metelkova Mesto, an old military barracks taken over by artists in 1994 and transformed into an autonomous cultural centre. It is made up of seven buildings and includes space for musicians and performers, art installations, studios, even several night clubs.

Ljubljana's Dragon
The city's symbol, the mighty dragon, is depicted throughout the city on buildings, bridges, iron and woodwork. Visit Dragon Bridge for an up-close encounter with the brave beast or go on a dragon hunt and see how many you can find.

Ljubljana Cathedral
Head for the twin towers of Ljubljana Cathedral (1708), which house some impressive frescoes in what is widely regarded as the finest ecclesiastical building in the country.

Museums and galleries
Take your pick from Ljubljana's fine choice of museums and galleries which include the City Museum, National Museum, the National Gallery, Plecnik's House and the Modern Art Gallery.

Postojna Cave
Take a train into the spectacular 20km (12-mile) cave of Postojna (www.postojnska-jama.si), only one hour's drive from the coast, which has been deemed one of the greatest sights of natural beauty, and features gigantic stalagmites and a cavernous hall which can hold over 10,000 people.

Koper Port
In the coastal town of Koper, explore the old town and see the Town Tower (1480), the 15th-century Cathedral, the loggia and the Praetor's Palace; also of interest is the Romanesque Carmin Rotunda (1317). The excellent Provincial Museum houses old maps of the area. 
 
Piran
Southeast of Koper is the picturesque town of Piran. Enjoy the flurry of Venetian architecture and the waterfront seafood restaurants or just enjoy a swim in the Adriatic shadowed by the town's voluminous hilltop church.
 
Ptuj
To the south of Maribor, see the Roman remains and medieval centre of Ptuj (www.ptuj-tourism.si), which is also the scene of traditional carnivals. Ptuj's old town overflows with cobbles, churches and impressive baroque buildings.
 
Bled
In the mountain resort of Bled (www.bled.si), see the neo-gothic Parish Church (1904) with its interesting frescoes and Bled Castle, the former seat of the bishops of Brixen. Perching above a 100m (328ft) drop, the castle offers magnificent views over the city and lake.

See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.