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The Ultimate Guide To Postojna Cave And Predjama Castle

Published: September 10, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Emmye Bill

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Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle! Nestled in the picturesque region of Slovenia, these two attractions offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history and stunning natural wonders. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique adventure, a visit to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle is a must.

Slovenia, located in Central Europe, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and warm hospitality. And within this hidden gem lies Postojna Cave, a mesmerizing underground labyrinth, and Predjama Castle, a fairytale-like fortress built into a cliffside.

Postojna Cave is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Slovenia, attracting visitors from all over the world. With its intricate network of tunnels, magnificent rock formations, and diverse wildlife, the cave offers a truly awe-inspiring experience. On the other hand, Predjama Castle stands as a testament to medieval architectural brilliance and fascinating tales of daring knights and noble lords.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the history, exploration tips, nearby attractions, and other essential information for visiting Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. So, let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through the depths of nature and the heights of medieval fortresses.

Brief History of Postojna Cave

The history of Postojna Cave dates back millions of years, with its formation attributed to the forces of nature. It all began with the gradual dissolution of limestone rocks by acidic water, giving birth to vast underground chambers and intricate passages.

The cave’s earliest human inhabitants were believed to be the ancient Celts, who utilized its chambers for various purposes, including religious ceremonies. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that Postojna Cave gained international recognition and became a popular tourist attraction.

In 1818, a local innkeeper named Luka Čeč discovered the cave’s entrance. Realizing its potential as a tourist attraction, he developed the cave’s infrastructure to accommodate visitors. With the construction of walkways and electric lighting, Postojna Cave officially opened its doors to the public in 1819.

Throughout the years, the cave underwent further enhancements and advancements to improve visitor experience. Today, it stands as one of the most well-developed and accessible show caves in the world, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Postojna Cave’s geological marvels continue to captivate visitors. Spanning over 24 kilometers (15 miles), the cave comprises several chambers adorned with breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique formations. The most famous of these chambers is Brilliant, known for its stunning white stalagmites resembling chandeliers.

Aside from its geological wonders, Postojna Cave is also known for its vibrant underground ecosystem. It is home to various species, including the enigmatic olm, a blind, cave-dwelling amphibian. This fascinating creature, often referred to as the “human fish” due to its human-like skin color, has become a symbol of the cave and is highly revered by scientists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Postojna Cave’s historical and geological significance has earned it numerous accolades and recognition. It has been declared a natural monument, while the nearby Proteus Cave Laboratory serves as a research center for the study of subterranean life forms.

Today, a visit to Postojna Cave offers a unique opportunity to delve into the depths of ancient history and marvel at the wonders of nature. Join us as we explore this breathtaking underground realm and unravel its secrets.

Brief History of Predjama Castle

Perched majestically on a sheer cliffside, Predjama Castle is a medieval fortress steeped in history and legend. Its origins can be traced back to the 13th century, during the era of knights, chivalry, and feudalism.

The castle’s strategic location, built directly into the rock face of a towering cliff, provided a natural defense against invaders. Originally constructed by the Patriarch of Aquileia, Predjama Castle served as a defensive fortress, safeguarding the nearby region of Carniola.

One of the most intriguing tales associated with Predjama Castle is the legend of Erazem of Predjama, a cunning nobleman who defied the Habsburg Empire in the 15th century. Erazem, known for his rebellious nature, turned Predjama Castle into a haven and stronghold as he launched daring raids on the Habsburg forces.

The most famous exploit of Erazem occurred in 1471 when he successfully withstood a siege, using a secret tunnel that connected the castle to a nearby cave system to ensure supplies and escape routes remained accessible. This audacious act earned Erazem the reputation of a “Robin Hood” figure and solidified the castle’s place in history as an impregnable fortress.

Over the centuries, Predjama Castle underwent several renovations and expansions, adopting a primarily Renaissance architectural style. However, it managed to retain its medieval charm and defensive features, including a drawbridge, battlements, and a network of hidden passages. The castle’s interior has also been beautifully preserved, showcasing period furniture, artifacts, and artwork.

Today, visitors can explore the corridors and chambers of Predjama Castle, stepping back in time to experience the life of medieval nobility. Highlights include the impressive Knight’s Hall, the Chapel, and the fortified living quarters. The castle also hosts various cultural events and performances throughout the year, immersing guests in the rich history and ambiance of the medieval era.

Predjama Castle’s striking appearance and captivating legends have made it a popular destination for filmmakers and adventurers alike. It has been featured in films such as the James Bond movie “The Spy Who Loved Me” and continues to inspire countless stories of knights, outlaws, and romantic intrigue.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Predjama Castle and explore its fascinating history. Discover the secrets hidden within its walls and marvel at its breathtaking location, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Predjama Castle is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of medieval architecture and a true gem of Slovenia’s cultural heritage.

How to Get to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

Located in southwestern Slovenia, both Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle are easily accessible from various parts of the country. Here are the different transportation options available:

• By Car: If you prefer the flexibility of driving, renting a car is a convenient way to reach Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. From Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, take the A1/E61 highway towards Koper and exit at Postojna. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes. There is ample parking available near both attractions.
• By Public Transport: Slovenia has an extensive public transport network, making it easy to reach Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle by bus or train. From Ljubljana, take a direct bus to either destination. The journey takes about an hour. Alternatively, you can take a train from Ljubljana to Postojna and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Predjama Castle.
• Organized Tours: Another convenient option is to join an organized tour from Ljubljana or other major cities in Slovenia. These tours typically include transportation to and from the attractions, as well as guided tours of both Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. It’s a hassle-free way to explore both sites while gaining insights from knowledgeable guides.

Once you arrive at Postojna Cave, the entrance is easily accessible from the parking area. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, allowing you to explore the cave’s wonders with an experienced guide. The tour includes a train ride that takes you deep into the cave, followed by a walk through the illuminated passages.

To reach Predjama Castle from Postojna Cave, you can take a short drive or hail a taxi. The castle is located approximately 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) away, and the journey takes around 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that includes transportation between the two attractions.

Overall, reaching Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle is convenient and straightforward, whether you choose to drive, use public transport, or join an organized tour. Once there, prepare to be enchanted by the natural wonders of Postojna Cave and the medieval allure of Predjama Castle.

Admission Fees and Opening Hours

Before planning your visit to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the admission fees and opening hours of these attractions. Here’s what you need to know:

Postojna Cave:

Postojna Cave offers various ticket options, depending on your preferences and the areas you wish to explore. Here are the general admission fees:

• Adults: [insert price]
• Children (6-15 years): [insert price]
• Students and seniors: [insert price]
• Children under 6 years: free

Keep in mind that these are approximate prices, and it’s a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, guided tours are included in the admission price, ensuring that you have a knowledgeable guide to lead you through the cave’s wonders.

The opening hours of Postojna Cave vary depending on the season:

• November to March: [insert opening hours]
• April to October: [insert opening hours]

Again, it’s advisable to check the official website or contact the attraction directly for the most accurate and current information regarding opening hours.

Predjama Castle:

The admission fees for Predjama Castle are separate from Postojna Cave, as they are two distinct attractions. Here are the general admission fees for Predjama Castle:

Similar to Postojna Cave, guided tours are typically included in the admission price at Predjama Castle.

The castle’s opening hours are as follows:

Again, it’s important to note that these opening hours may vary, especially during public holidays or specific events. It’s recommended to check the official website or contact Predjama Castle before your visit.

By familiarizing yourself with the admission fees and opening hours of both Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, you can plan your visit accordingly and make the most of your time exploring these magnificent attractions in Slovenia.

Exploring Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave offers a mesmerizing underground adventure that will leave you in awe of its captivating beauty. Here’s what you can expect when exploring this natural wonder:

Guided Tours: To ensure a safe and informative visit, exploring Postojna Cave is done through guided tours. The tour begins with a scenic train ride that takes you deep into the cave, providing a glimpse of its vastness. From there, you will continue on foot with an experienced guide who will navigate you through the illuminated pathways and share fascinating insights about the cave’s geology, history, and unique formations.

Stunning Formations: As you venture deeper into the cave, be prepared to be amazed by the extraordinary stalactites and stalagmites that adorn its chambers. The intricate formations, forged over thousands of years, come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, creating a surreal and magical atmosphere. Highlights include the Brilliant chamber, famous for its white stalagmites resembling chandeliers, and the Concert Hall, renowned for its excellent acoustics.

Subterranean Wildlife: Postojna Cave is not only a geological marvel but also home to a rich subterranean ecosystem. The most famous resident is the olm, a rare blind amphibian that has adapted to life in the darkness. Often referred to as the “human fish” due to its pale skin color, the olm is a symbol of the cave and a fascinating sight to behold. During the tour, your guide will provide interesting facts about the unique creatures that call the cave their home.

Interactive Exhibition: After the guided tour, you have the opportunity to visit the Postojna Cave Exhibition Center. This interactive exhibition offers a deeper understanding of the cave’s geological processes, its ecological significance, and the ongoing scientific research being conducted. It’s a great way to complement your cave exploration and learn more about the natural wonders you have witnessed.

It is important to note that the average duration of a guided tour in Postojna Cave is around 1.5 hours, but this can vary depending on the specific tour and any additional activities or exhibitions you choose to explore.

Exploring Postojna Cave is truly a remarkable experience, immersing you in the subterranean wonders that lie beneath the surface of Slovenia. Prepare to be amazed as you delve into the depths of this underground labyrinth and discover the breathtaking beauty hidden within.

Highlights and Points of Interest in Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave is a treasure trove of natural wonders, filled with unique features and stunning formations. Here are some of the highlights and points of interest you can expect to encounter during your visit:

Brilliant Chamber: As one of the most impressive chambers in the cave, the Brilliant Chamber lives up to its name with its breathtaking white stalagmites resembling chandeliers. The formations glisten and sparkle, creating a magical ambiance that is truly awe-inspiring.

Concert Hall: Another notable feature of Postojna Cave is the Concert Hall. This chamber is not only renowned for its size but also for its exceptional acoustics. In the past, it has hosted various musical performances and concerts that take advantage of the natural reverberation of sound in the cave.

Spaghetti Hall: Prepare to be amazed by the Spaghetti Hall, where delicate formations of thin and elongated stalactites hang from the ceiling, resembling strands of spaghetti. It’s a unique sight that showcases the diversity of shapes and structures within the cave.

White Hall: The White Hall is a visual feast for visitors, featuring numerous stalactites and stalagmites of varying sizes and shapes. The contrast between the white formations and the dark surroundings adds to the dramatic beauty of this chamber.

Skylight: Within the cave, you’ll also come across an enchanting natural phenomenon known as the Skylight. This opening in the cave’s ceiling allows natural light to filter down, illuminating the chamber and creating a magical play of light and shadow on the formations below.

Underground River: As you explore Postojna Cave, you’ll encounter an underground river that flows through the chambers. The crystal-clear waters add an element of serenity to the surroundings and offer stunning reflections of the cave’s incredible formations.

Olm Exhibition: As mentioned earlier, Postojna Cave is home to the enigmatic olm, a rare amphibian that has adapted to life in the darkness of the cave. To learn more about this fascinating creature, make sure to visit the Olm Exhibition, where you can gain insights into its unique biology and behavior.

These are just a few of the many highlights and points of interest you can discover during your exploration of Postojna Cave. Each chamber and formation offers a mesmerizing experience, showcasing the marvels of nature that have been crafted over thousands of years.

Prepare to be captivated by the underground wonders of Postojna Cave as you uncover its hidden treasures and witness the breathtaking beauty that lies within its depths.

Tips for Visiting Postojna Cave

Visiting Postojna Cave is an exciting adventure, and to make the most of your experience, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Book Tickets in Advance: Postojna Cave is a popular attraction, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid long queues and ensure your spot, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, either online or through a reputable tour operator.

2. Dress Appropriately: The temperature inside the cave remains a constant 8-10°C (46-50°F) throughout the year, so it’s important to dress warmly and comfortably. Wear layers and comfortable footwear suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.

3. Arrive Early: To make the most of your visit and have a more relaxed experience, try to arrive early in the day. This allows you to avoid crowds and have more time to explore the cave at your own pace.

4. Follow the Guided Tour: To fully appreciate the cave’s wonders and learn about its geological and historical significance, it is highly recommended to follow the guided tour. The guides are knowledgeable and provide valuable insights that enhance your understanding of the cave’s unique features.

5. Respect the Rules and Regulations: Postojna Cave has certain rules and regulations in place to ensure the preservation of the cave and the safety of visitors. Please follow these guidelines, including not touching the formations and staying with the guided group at all times.

6. Capture Memories: Photography is allowed inside the cave; however, the use of flash and tripods is prohibited. Make sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of the cave, but remember to be respectful of other visitors and avoid creating obstructions.

7. Bring Essentials: Along with warm clothing, consider bringing a small backpack with essentials such as water, snacks, and a light raincoat in case of sudden weather changes. Some areas of the cave may be damp and slippery, so bringing a small towel or extra grip shoes could be useful.

8. Plan for Additional Activities: In addition to the cave tour, Postojna Cave offers other activities, such as the Vivarium and Expo Cave Karst exhibitions. Take some time to explore these attractions to further enrich your visit and expand your knowledge of the cave’s ecosystem.

9. Check for Special Events: Throughout the year, Postojna Cave hosts special events and concerts, adding an extra level of enchantment to your visit. Check the official website or local listings to see if any events coincide with your planned visit.

10. Explore the Surrounding Area: Postojna Cave is located in a scenic region of Slovenia that offers other attractions and activities. Consider extending your visit to explore nearby sites, such as Predjama Castle or the beautiful countryside, adding even more to your Slovenian adventure.

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on a memorable and enjoyable journey as you explore the wonders of Postojna Cave.

Exploring Predjama Castle

Perched dramatically on a cliffside, Predjama Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval history and architectural ingenuity. Here’s what you can expect when exploring this captivating fortress:

Guided Tours: Exploring Predjama Castle is best done through a guided tour. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the castle’s history, architectural features, and intriguing legends associated with the nobleman Erazem of Predjama. The tour takes you through the castle’s various rooms, corridors, and hidden passages, allowing you to immerse yourself in the medieval ambiance.

Awe-Inspiring Architecture: Predjama Castle’s architectural brilliance is evident as you wander through its well-preserved rooms. Marvel at the medieval stonework, Renaissance additions, and defensive features such as the drawbridge and battlements. The castle’s strategic location attached to the rocky cliff face is a testament to the skill and innovation of the architects who designed it.

Living Quarters: Step into the past as you explore the castle’s living quarters, including the Great Hall, the Castle Chapel, and the Knight’s Hall. Admire the period furniture, intricate woodwork, and artistic details that transport you back to the heyday of chivalry and nobility.

Hidden Passages: One of the most intriguing aspects of Predjama Castle is its network of hidden passages. These secret tunnels allowed the castle’s occupants to move discreetly and obtain supplies during times of siege. Exploring these passages gives you a sense of the castle’s strategic advantages and the ingenuity of its inhabitants.

Spectacular Views: From the castle’s elevated position, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Slovenian countryside. Take in the rolling hills, verdant forests, and picturesque landscapes spread out below, offering a memorable backdrop to your visit.

Castle Events: Predjama Castle hosts various cultural events and performances throughout the year, bringing its storied past to life. Keep an eye out for special events, such as medieval reenactments or concerts, which further enhance the castle’s ambiance and provide a deeper immersion into its history.

When exploring Predjama Castle, take your time to appreciate the architectural intricacies, historical significance, and the captivating stories that surround it. Through guided tours and immersive experiences, Predjama Castle offers a memorable journey back in time to the world of medieval knights and noble lords.

Highlights and Points of Interest in Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle is a marvel of medieval architecture and history, nestled in the picturesque Slovenian countryside. Here are some of the highlights and points of interest that await you during your visit:

Cliffside Location: One of the most remarkable features of Predjama Castle is its unique location. Built into a towering cliff, the castle appears as if it is emerging from the rock face, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Medieval Fortifications: As you explore the castle, take note of the impressive fortified walls, bastions, and towers that once served as the castle’s defense against potential invaders. The architecture exemplifies the defensive strategies employed during medieval times.

Living Quarters: Step into the castle’s well-preserved living quarters and imagine what life was like for its noble inhabitants. Highlights include the Great Hall, adorned with ornate decorations, and the Knight’s Hall, where knights once gathered for feasts and celebrations.

Erazem’s Secret Passage: Discover the legend of Erazem of Predjama, a nobleman who defied the Holy Roman Empire. The castle is renowned for its hidden secret passage, which Erazem used to receive supplies and evade capture during a year-long siege. Learn about the daring adventures and intrigues associated with this legendary figure.

Castle Chapel: Visit the Castle Chapel, a place of worship within Predjama Castle. Admire the architectural details and experience the serene ambiance of this spiritual space as you imagine the castle’s inhabitants seeking solace within its walls.

Breathtaking Views: Climb to the highest points of the castle to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Take in the rolling hills, lush forests, and quaint villages that stretch as far as the eye can see. The vantage point provides a stunning backdrop for memorable photos.

Castle Events: Predjama Castle hosts various events and reenactments, bringing the castle’s history to life. Experience medieval jousting competitions, knightly tournaments, or traditional music performances that transport you back in time and provide a deeper immersion into the castle’s rich heritage.

These highlights and points of interest offer a glimpse into the captivating world of Predjama Castle. From its remarkable cliffside location to its intriguing legends and architectural splendor, a visit to this medieval fortress will transport you to a bygone era of knights and noble intrigues.

Tips for Visiting Predjama Castle

Visiting Predjama Castle is a unique and fascinating experience that offers a glimpse into medieval history. To make the most of your visit, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Check Opening Hours: Before planning your visit, make sure to check the castle’s official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on opening hours. This will ensure that you arrive during the designated visiting times and avoid any disappointment.

2. Guided Tours: Joining a guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the castle’s history and architectural features. Knowledgeable guides provide interesting insights, stories, and historical context that bring the castle to life. Guided tours are available in multiple languages to accommodate visitors from around the world.

3. Dress Comfortably: Predjama Castle requires climbing stairs and walking through uneven surfaces, so be sure to wear comfortable footwear and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Keep in mind that some areas of the castle may not be heated or air-conditioned, so layer your clothing accordingly.

4. Photography: Photography is permitted within the castle, so don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the stunning architecture and panoramic views. Be respectful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography in sensitive areas or rooms.

5. Respect the Rules: Predjama Castle is a historic site, and it is important to respect the rules and regulations in place to preserve its integrity. Listen to the instructions of your guide, refrain from touching artifacts or decorations, and be mindful of any restricted areas.

6. Take Your Time: Predjama Castle is a place with rich history and intricate details to explore. Take your time to admire the architecture, artwork, and scenic views. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere and allow yourself to be transported back in time.

7. Explore the Surroundings: The area surrounding Predjama Castle offers beautiful natural landscapes and charming villages. Consider taking a leisurely stroll or hike in the countryside after your castle visit to fully appreciate the beauty of the Slovenian countryside.

8. Check for Special Events: Predjama Castle hosts various events, such as medieval reenactments, concerts, and exhibitions. Be sure to check if any special events are taking place during your visit, as they can provide a unique and immersive experience in the castle’s historical ambiance.

9. Plan for Refreshments: While there is no restaurant within Predjama Castle itself, there are nearby options for dining and refreshments. Consider bringing a snack or finding a local eatery to replenish your energy during or after your visit.

10. Combine with Postojna Cave: Predjama Castle is located in close proximity to Postojna Cave. Consider combining your visit to both attractions for a full day of adventure and exploration. Many tour operators offer combined ticket options and transportation between the sites.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure a memorable and enjoyable visit to Predjama Castle, where history comes to life and the medieval atmosphere is palpable.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Located in the picturesque Slovenian countryside, Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave are surrounded by a plethora of attractions and activities. Here are some notable nearby places to explore:

Pivka Park: Located between Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave, Pivka Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely walk amidst the beautiful scenery and discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Skocjan Caves: Just a short drive from Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave, the Skocjan Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore a network of cave passages, awe-inspiring underground canyons, and colossal cave chambers. The natural beauty and geological significance of the Skocjan Caves make them a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts.

Lake Cerknica: Located approximately 30 minutes away, Lake Cerknica is the largest intermittent lake in Slovenia. Depending on the season and weather conditions, the lake’s water level can fluctuate dramatically, offering a unique and ever-changing landscape. Explore the lake by foot or bike, or enjoy birdwatching and other activities on its shores.

Ljubljana: Slovenia’s capital city, Ljubljana, is approximately an hour’s drive from Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave. It offers a wealth of attractions, including the iconic Ljubljana Castle, picturesque old town, vibrant riverside promenade, and numerous museums and galleries. Stroll along the charming streets, savor delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Idrija: About a 40-minute drive from the attractions, the town of Idrija is known for its rich mining history and lace-making tradition. Visit the Idrija Gewerkenegg Castle, explore the Mercury Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about the intricate art of Idrija lace. Immerse yourself in the town’s fascinating heritage and traditional craftsmanship.

Vipava Valley: Situated about 40 kilometers west of Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave, the Vipava Valley is a paradise for food and wine lovers. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, the region offers excellent opportunities for wine tasting, sampling local delicacies, and enjoying the picturesque countryside. Explore charming towns like Vipava and taste their renowned wines and regional cuisine.

Črni Kal: A short drive from Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave, Črni Kal is a small village known for its impressive rock-climbing opportunities. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can test your climbing skills on the village’s towering limestone cliffs or simply enjoy the panoramic views they offer.

These are just a few of the many nearby attractions and activities to explore when visiting Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave. From natural wonders to cultural heritage, the region offers a diverse range of experiences to complement your journey through Slovenia’s captivating countryside.

Accommodation Options near Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

For those looking to spend more time exploring the wonders of Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, there are several accommodation options available in the surrounding area. Here are some recommendations for places to stay:

1. Hotel Jama: Located near Postojna Cave, Hotel Jama is a popular choice for visitors seeking convenience and comfort. The hotel offers modern rooms, a restaurant serving Slovenian cuisine, and amenities such as a spa, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. With its proximity to Postojna Cave, it’s an ideal base for exploring the cave and its surrounding attractions.

2. Hotel Sport: Situated in the town of Postojna, just a short drive from both Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, Hotel Sport offers comfortable accommodation, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel is known for its friendly staff and convenient location near the town’s shops and restaurants.

3. Guesthouses and Apartments: There are numerous guesthouses and apartments available in the area, providing a more intimate and home-like experience. These accommodations offer comfortable rooms or self-contained apartments with kitchenettes, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. They often come with friendly hosts who can provide local tips and recommendations.

4. Farm Stays: For a unique and authentic experience, consider staying at a traditional Slovenian farm. These farm stays offer comfortable accommodation, often with picturesque surroundings and the opportunity to learn about rural life. It’s a great option for those seeking a tranquil retreat while still being within reach of the cave and castle.

5. Camping: If you prefer a more outdoorsy experience, there are campsites in the area where you can pitch your tent or park your camper. Camping is a budget-friendly option and allows you to enjoy the natural surroundings. Some campsites offer amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, and on-site restaurants.

It’s important to note that during peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially for hotels and guesthouses. This ensures availability and allows you to secure the best rates.

Whatever your preference and budget, there are accommodation options near Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle to suit every traveler. Consider your needs, location preferences, and preferences for amenities when choosing where to stay, and enjoy a comfortable and convenient base for your exploration of these captivating Slovenian attractions.

Dining Options near Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

After a day of exploring Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Luckily, there are several dining options available in the surrounding area that offer delicious Slovenian cuisine and international flavors. Here are some dining recommendations near Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle:

1. Restaurant Jama: Located near Postojna Cave, Restaurant Jama offers a delightful dining experience with a focus on traditional Slovenian cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including specialties such as “štruklji” (rolled dumplings) and “žganci” (buckwheat spoonbread). The restaurant also boasts a selection of Slovenian wines to complement your meal.

2. Gostilna Na Gradu: Situated in the vicinity of Predjama Castle, Gostilna Na Gradu is a charming restaurant housed in a restored farmhouse. It offers a diverse menu, blending Slovenian and international flavors. From hearty traditional dishes to gourmet creations, there is something to satisfy every palate. The restaurant’s picturesque setting and warm atmosphere provide a memorable dining experience.

3. Gostilna Pr’ Kovaču: Located in the village of Rakitnik, a short drive from Predjama Castle, Gostilna Pr’ Kovaču is a family-run inn and restaurant known for its warm hospitality and authentic Slovenian cuisine. The menu features homemade dishes made from local ingredients, including game meat, traditional stews, and delicious desserts. It’s a great option for those seeking a taste of traditional Slovenian flavors.

4. Restaurant Kras: Situated in the town of Postojna, Restaurant Kras offers a blend of Mediterranean and Slovenian cuisine. The menu showcases fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a variety of vegetarian dishes. The restaurant is known for its friendly service and stylish ambiance, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

5. Local Pubs and Cafés: If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience or a quick bite, there are numerous local pubs and cafés in the area where you can grab a sandwich, burger, or a cup of coffee. These establishments often offer a relaxing atmosphere and a chance to mingle with the locals while enjoying a light meal or refreshment.

Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Slovenian dishes, international cuisine, or a casual dining experience, you’ll find a range of dining options near Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle to satisfy your culinary cravings. Exploring the local gastronomy adds an extra dimension to your visit, allowing you to savor the flavors of Slovenia while immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage.

A visit to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Slovenia’s natural and historical wonders. From the mystical underground realm of Postojna Cave to the captivating medieval fortress of Predjama Castle, these attractions offer a unique blend of natural beauty, architectural marvels, and rich cultural heritage.

Postojna Cave’s awe-inspiring formations, subterranean wildlife, and interactive exhibitions make it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and curious travelers. The guided tours provide a captivating experience, unveiling the secrets of this ancient underground labyrinth.

Predjama Castle, perched on a cliffside, evokes a sense of medieval grandeur and intrigue. Explore its hidden passages, admire its fortifications, and immerse yourself in the tales of knights and noble lords that echo through its corridors.

While visiting these attractions, take advantage of the nearby sites and activities that further enrich your Slovenian adventure. From the natural beauty of Pivka Park and Skocjan Caves to the cultural delights of Ljubljana and Idrija, the region offers a wide range of experiences to suit every interest and preference.

Ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit by following the tips provided, whether it’s booking your tickets in advance, dressing appropriately for the cave’s constant temperature, or respecting the rules and regulations in place to preserve these unique sites.

Make the most of your visit by indulging in Slovenia’s culinary delights at nearby restaurants, sampling traditional Slovenian cuisine, or enjoying international flavors. The dining options in the area cater to a variety of preferences and offer a delightful gastronomic experience.

In conclusion, a visit to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle promises a journey through Slovenia’s captivating landscapes, history, and natural wonders. Immerse yourself in the depths of the cave, marvel at the medieval fortress, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Experience the beauty and heritage of Slovenia as you explore these remarkable attractions and unlock the secrets they hold.

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Travel Slovenia – Beauties of our little country

Postojna is an urban settlement in the administrative center of municipality Postojna, which is located on the gradual slope above the bottom of the eastern part of Spodnja Pivka (en. Lower Pivka), below the southern edge of Postojnska vrata (en. Postojna door) on altitude 612 meters. It is the most gradual passage from the hinterland of Slovenia towards the sea. Postojna is located in Littoral-Inner Carniola region, on the area, where there are many forests that have lead to the development of the wood industry, somewhat later, the machinery and food industry. Big impact in this area has tourism. The city is also an educational center with secondary school center, college, and foresty school. It is also an administrative center with the court, at the same time also commercial, health, and cultural center. In the city is parish church St. Stefan and subsidiary church St. Lazar on city cemetery.

NAME OF THE CITY

The city was not always called Postojna, it was for the first time mentioned in the 13th century under the name Arnsberg, later Adelsberg. Before the current name settled, the city has experienced quite a few changes in its name. In the middle of the 14th century, the name Postoyna occurs. The city got its name after the white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) or postojna, which a bird of prey from the family of goshawks and which nested on nearby Sovič. Its motif is on the Postojna coat of arms.

Near the city is a famous post Bealov spodmol, which is Paleolithic cave site with remains of tools and bones of the prey of the former hunters. From times of Roman empire partly preserved fort stands on Sovič and Roman findings along the highway. The old city center is called Majlont, which developed below hill Sovič, where still today are seen preserved remains of a medieval castle. Postojna was for the first time mentioned in the year 1226, as a market in the year 1432. In the 16th century, Turks came to the city several times. In times of horse and cart driving, the city expanded along with today’s Tržaška and Ljubljanska cesta (en. street), in the year 1857 also towards the train station with the construction of the railway. In the year 1689, the Sovič castle burnt down, for what on today’s Titov trg (en. Tito square) Spodnja graščina (en. Lower manor) was built. Here used to be a court, today here is Institute for exploring Karst. In the year 1810, the city gets gymnasium, in the year 1851 printing house, which was bought by Maks Šeber. In the year 1909, Postojna acquires the status of the city. It becomes an important provincial center, because of its favorable traffic position and tourism. It experienced rapid growth during world wars when it belonged to Italy. Italians built barracks in the upper part of the city. After WWII the city expanded even more with construction of apartment buildings.

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Tourist information

Tourist information centres are a treasure trove of information about the Municipality of Postojna: history, stories, tourist sights, working hours, price lists, transport, accommodation, events, catering providers and much more. The friendly tourist information staff will always take the time to answer your questions and provide you with all the information you need.

TIC Galerija The Galerija tourist information centre is located in the very centre of Postojna, next to the Beno Zupančič Library. We offer our visitors a diverse and rich range of tourist publications about Postojna, the region and Slovenia, as well as local products for sale, most of which are unique products, made by local creators.  These are a beautiful and high-quality reflection of craft and artistic activities within our municipality and the region. These products offer travelers and tourists a pleasant souvenir of their visit to our beautiful area, and even the locals can find something for themselves or as a gift for their loved ones. 

TIC Galerija Trg padlih borcev 5, 6230 Postojna +386 (0)40 122 318 [email protected]

• analitične namene – spremljamo vedenje uporabnikov, zato da lahko izboljšamo delovanje strani,
• jezik - za prepoznavanje trenutnega jezika obiskovalca in nazadnje obiskanega jezika,
• priljubljene - za shranjevanje priljubljenih vnosov.

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How To Visit Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle in Slovenia

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Postojna Cave is an absolutely fascinating place to visit! The massive cave system features cavernous corridors and an abundance of magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. Extending across the landscape, the cave karst phenomena can also be witnessed at the nearby 12th century Predjama Castle.

Welcoming visitors for more than 200 years, Postojna Cave Park and Predjama Cave Castle firmly rank as top Slovenia tourist attractions. The two sights are located in southwestern Slovenia – just 30 miles (50km) from Ljubljana. Because of their close proximity, you can easily visit Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave from Ljubljana in a single day. 

Plan a Trip: Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

Travelers have a few options when it comes to visiting Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle in Slovenia. Visitors with a rental car can simply drive; there is a paid parking lot at both the cave and castle. 

Joining an organized tour is the easiest way to get from Ljubljana to Postojna. The half or full day trips alleviate guests from worrying about specifics. However, organized tours tend to be on the pricey side. 

It’s also fairly easy – and about half the price of a tour – to set off on a day trip using public transportation. In fact, this DIY excursion is one of the easiest Ljubljana Day Trips to plan!

How To Get to Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle

Visitors without a car can use the scheduled buses from Ljubljana to Postojna Caves. The direct bus is operated by Arriva . To search for the Ljubljana to Postojna Caves bus schedule online, select Ljubljana (Ljubljana AP) to Postojna Cave (Postojnska Jama). The cost of the bus ticket is less than €6 each way.

Getting to Predjama Castle from Postojna

Predjama Castle sits 6 miles (10km) from the Postojna Caves Park. Guests can get between the two sights via car, taxi or shuttle bus. 

The drive between the castle and cave takes about 15 minutes. However, be aware that the paid parking is extremely limited at the castle entrance. Using a taxi to get from the caves to the castle will cost about €15. 

The cheap way to get from Postojna Caves to Predjama Castle is the shuttle bus – which is available for free to guests with a combination Caves and Castle Ticket. However, the free shuttle bus only runs during peak periods (typically Spring Beak and Summer Vacation).

Predjama and Postojna Cave Tickets

Tickets to Postojna Cave start at €30. However, the basic entry fee only allows access to the cave tour – and there are many other sights to see in the area.

The Postojnska Jama ticket office sells a range of money-saving combination tickets that include multiple attractions. For example, the combination Predjama and Postojna Cave price is €42 – which provides a €7 savings over the individual ticket prices. 

That said, the ticket package that we recommend is the Full Park Experience. Priced at €52, this combination ticket includes the cave tour, castle tour, vivarium and expo. We detail the highlights of each attraction in the next section. 

Predjama and Postojna Caves Opening Hours

Opening hours at Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle vary by season. During the summer months, the cave and castle are open from 9am until 7pm. However, winter hours are limited to just 10am to 4pm. 

Visiting Postojna Caves, Slovenia: What To Expect

Before making any plans, it’s best to have an idea of what to expect. From the guided tours of Postojna Caves to the top park attractions, we are dishing out the details of our experience to help fellow travelers better plan their day trip!

History of Slovenia Caves: Postojna Formation

Postojna Cave was formed millions of years ago by the underground Pivka River. The karst cave was created when the water dissolved the limestone and created an open space below the earth’s surface.

In the thousands of years since the now famous Postojna Cave was created, nature has been slowly, but steadily, decorating the interior into an array of rock formations. The stalactites and stalagmites are stacked from the floor and dangling from the ceiling like petrified icicles. 

The subterranean space offers a beautiful, yet surreal, scene. The dazzling natural occurrence and sheer size of the underground chamber make visiting Postojna Cave one the best things to do in Slovenia!

Postojna Cave Slovenia Tour

The guided Postojna Cave Tour covers about 1 mile of the massive 15 mile passageway. The amusement park style Postojna Cave train ushers visitors through the hollowed earth.

When we departed the train and walked in the darkness, it took a few moments for our eyes to adjust to the dim lighting. Outside, the Slovenian summer sun was already hot, but deep in the Postojna Cave, the damp air cooled our skin and clung to our clothes.

As we stood in the vast space, known as the Great Mountain, we were beginning to see our surroundings more clearly…and we were in awe of what we were viewing!

Postojna Cave Rooms

The guided Postojna Cave Tour takes visitors through three distinct sections of the cave. In some ways, the tour feels like walking through galleries at an art museum. 

In the Spaghetti Hall, thousands of thin, white stalactites hang from the top of the ceiling. To us, it looked like a shreds of cheese dangling from a giant cheese grater.

In the next gallery, enormous stalagmites stand like dripping candles. The rocks in White Hall have a pearly appearance, which is obtained from concentrated calcium carbonate.

In the Red Hall, the stalactites and stalagmites are rust colored. The red hue is attributed to the iron minerals from the soil above.

Famous Postojna Cave Rock Formations

During the tour, visitors come face-to-face with some of the most spectacular stalactites and stalagmites in Postojna Cave. Some are so unique that they’ve been nicknamed!

Two, long, skinny columns that have joined into one are called “Romeo and Juliet.” The “Organ” looks like it’s been plucked out of a church. Meanwhile “Brilliant” looks like an enormous diamond on display, although, we think it looked more like a double-scoop of ice cream…or maybe we were just getting hungry!

Total Darkness in Postojna Caves Slovenia

In addition to the red, rusty color, visitors will notice that two other colors appear on the rocks – black and green – throughout Postojna Cave. The dark black is a naturally occurring pigment from manganese, however the green is mold.

The unnatural lights introduced to the interior of the cave facilitate the growth of mold, which is why lights are used sparingly and camera flashes are prohibited inside Postojna Cave.

To show us the true darkness of the cave, our guide extinguished the lights and we were enveloped in complete blackness!

Postojna Cave Human Fish

Image courtesy of Postojnska Jama

Mold, however, isn’t the only thing living in the cave. There are more than 100 species that call Postojna Cave home. Insects and spiders make up the majority of the list, but the most interesting creature to dwell in the cave is the Proteus. The animal is also referred to as an Olm, Baby Dragon and, our favorite, Human Fish.

The pale pink, salamander-like Postojna cave animal is completely blind. The ‘Baby Dragons’ grow to almost 12 inches. Most interesting is that it lives to be 100 years old and can go without food for 10 years at a time!

Where to See a Postojna Cave Dragon

Since these creatures would be fairly difficult to find naturally on a tour, a large aquarium holding Postojna Cave Human Fish is located inside the cave so that visitors could get an up-close view.

Our visit happened to coincide with a rare event: the birth of baby Proteus. Although they weren’t yet ready to be formally introduced, we could watch their movements on a video screen.

Postojna Cave Concert Hall

The last stop on the Postojna Cave tour is the incredible Concert Hall. Featuring fine acoustics, the space can hold an echo for five seconds and has been used as a performance hall by various singing groups. Equally intriguing is that the Concert Hall hosted an in-cave basketball event!

While in the Concert Hall room, visitors can stop by the world’s oldest (and only) underground post office. The Postojna Post Office has been sending letters and parcels since 1899 – and still does today. Before boarding the train to ride up to the exit, send a postcard to yourself as a memory of your trip!

More Things To Do at Park Postojna 

Tours in the Postojna Cave last about 1.5 hours. Visitors who purchase the “Full Park Experience” ticket, however, have a lot more to see. The combo ticket also provides entry to the underground zoo, the expo center and the nearby Predjama Castle. 

Vivarium Proteus Underground Zoo

The underground zoo, Vivarium Proteus, features the insects and other creatures that inhabit the Postojna Cave. In 1831, the first cave beetle was discovered and it launched a new branch of biology, known as Speleobiology. A small laboratory and exhibits are located within Vivarium Proteus.  

Expo Center Postojna

The Expo Center is an excellent place to gain a better understanding of the history of Postojna Cave. Informative and interesting displays on the creation of the cave, as well as the story of it’s discovery and promotion as a tourist sight, are highlighted.

Particularly intriguing are the details of how Postojna Cave was originally equipped to handle the visitors. Exhibits share how it was originally lit and provides info about the development of the interior railway, which has been in existence since 1872.

Visiting Predjama Castle Slovenia

Perched in the middle of a 400-foot cliff, the stunning Predjama Castle is an impressive sight. The famous Slovenian Cave Castle was built 800 years ago, during the Middle Ages. What makes the castle so special is that is was constructed to incorporate a natural cave. 

Inside, visitors can tour the secret passageways, find a natural water source and step inside hidden rooms. The one-of-a-kind ‘Castle in a Cave’ is unlike any other castle we have ever visited!

Predjama Castle Tour

Visitors need about an hour to tour Predjama Castle – and perhaps another half hour to leisurely wander the grounds and take in the exceptional views from the various vantage points. A free audio guide, which is offered in multiple languages, is included with the Predjama Castle admission ticket. 

When we toured the inside of Predjama Castle, we moved leisurely from room-to-room, soaking up all of the engaging history. Each area of the castle – from the dungeon to the dining room to the chapel – provides information about how the space was used. 

For us, the highlight of the tour of Predjama Castle was the natural cave interior – and how it was integrated with the castle.

Where to Eat at Postojna

Between visiting Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle, we suggest taking a break for lunch. There are a handful of restaurants at the cave entrance, but we recommend venturing into the center of Postojna Town for better options. On our trip, we ate lunch at Restaurant Proteus.

Lunch at Postojna Proteus Restaurant

We chose to walk less than a mile from the cave to the town of Postojna for a fine dining experience at Proteus Restaurant. 

The bright and atmospheric Postojna restaurant serves first class cuisine. Our decadent, two-hour, five-course lunch – of which the highlights were baked octopus in a tomato sauce and glazed lambchops – was complimented with delicious Slovenian wine!

Predjama and Postojna Cave Map

Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our map of Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle.

Travel Tips for Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

Ready to discover the cave and storm the castle? Okay, first we have some advice that will help make planning a Day Trip to Postojna and Predjama a breeze! 

What to Wear at Postojna Cave

The temperature inside the caves is about 46-50˚F year-round. I initially felt silly carrying a fleece jacket with me in the middle of August, but I was happy to have it after entering the cave! Jackets are available for rent at the entrance.

Also, make sure you wear good travel shoes , as the interior of the cave can be slippery and there are a lot of stairs in the castle. I wore these casual and comfortable Columbia Shoes and Kris wore trail shoes by Merrell . 

What To Bring to Predjama and Postojna

Don’t forget to bring a proper travel camera ! At Postojna Cave, tour participants are permitted to take photos, but only without flash and your first glimpse of Predjama is one you’ll want to remember forever. We shoot with a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens , which also comes with loads of accessories and makes a fantastic travel camera on a budget . 

We also suggest carrying a versatile day bag . We use these small backpacks that are big enough to stow our camera, jackets, water bottle and snacks!

Where To Stay in Postojna

Although most will visit the cave and castle on a day trip, there are hotels in Postojna. In fact, the on-site Hotel Jama is located just outside the main entrance and is highly rated in customer reviews. Even if you’re not staying at Hotel Jama, you can tour the secret surveillance rooms from the time of Yugoslavia!

Looking for something else? We recommend starting your search on Booking.com – but read our money-saving tips for Booking the Best Hotels Rooms  first!

More Slovenian Caves

Postojna is just one of 11,000 caves in Slovenia!  During our extensive Slovenia travels, we have visited numerous of these caverns, including the massive Skocjan Cave. Those trying to decide between visiting Postojna or Skocjan Caves can use our Guide to Skocjan for additional tips and honest advice.

Slovenia Trip Planning Resources and Info

• Buy Postojna Cave Tickets on the Official Site
• Review Top Rated Organized Ljubljana to Postojna Cave Tours
• Organize Your Vacation to Europe : Use our Printable Travel Planner to get prepared

Slovenia Travel Guides

Traveling to Slovenia is something we’re quite familiar with, having visited the country multiple times and from one end to the other. It really is surprising how underrated Slovenia is. See more and plan your Slovenia vacation with our free and honest travel articles!

• Best Things To Do in Ljubljana
• What To See in Kranj, Slovenia
• How To Spend One Day in Ljubljana
• What To Do at Lake Bled (and how to find the Top Viewpoints )
• Best of Lake Bohinj (and the Popular Hiking Trails )
• Visit coastal Piran , marvelous Maribor , the castle at Celje and medieval Skofja Loka
• Get off the Beaten Path in Bela Krajina
• Sip and Swirl at the Top Slovenia Wineries 

Start planning your trip to Slovenia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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A Wonderful Underworld: A Guide to Visiting Postojna Cave

Europe , Slovenia , Travelling / Last modified on August 8, 2022 by Alex / Leave a Comment

Postojna Cave is one of Slovenia’s most famous and remarkable landmarks and deservedly so. The huge underground network of interconnecting caves full of stalagmites and stalactites completely defies imagination. It’s immense, magnificent, and like nothing you ever saw before. In this guide, I will share my experience of visiting Postojna Cave and give some useful tips.

Why Postojna Cave Is Worth Visiting

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Before coming to Slovenia, I wasn’t really a big fan of caves. All the caves I ever encountered were either too small (you’re back out before you know it) or narrow and claustrophobic. Neither is a particularly enticing experience.

But what I saw in Postojna Cave is nothing like that. It’s on a whole different level, one I couldn’t even imagine was possible. Vast underground caverns with no end in sight, one astonishing chamber after another. It’s an entire kingdom that exists right under our feet without us even knowing.

With nearly 24 km of passages, tunnels, and galleries, Postojna Cave is one of the largest and most impressive in Europe. It is also the only cave in the world that features a train . Which, by the way, you will get to ride as part of your visit. 

Inside, you will find endless stalactites and stalagmites of all possible shapes and sizes, mind-boggling ancient halls that look like something out of the fantasy tale, colorful passages, and narrow bridges. And the list goes on.

The official website hails Postojna as “the world’s most captivating cave”, and they probably aren’t far from the truth. As you descend deeper into the cave, the mind struggles to keep up the pace. Can something like this truly exist?

It can and it does. Postojna cave is a rare natural marvel that will surely take your breath away. It’s an exciting adventure for children and adults alike. And if you come to Slovenia, you’ll be amiss not to go see it for yourself.

You can only enter Postojna Cave as part of a guided tour. These run throughout the year, and there are a few options to choose from.

The basic tour lasts 1.5 hours and takes place several times dail y depending on the season. It starts with a train ride into Postojna cave followed by a 1-kilometer walk through its chambers. You then board the train again to have a final glimpse of the caves as it brings you back to the surface.

That’s the tour we picked, and for most people, it’s more than sufficient. It doesn’t take overly long yet introduces you to all the important highlights of the cave. The only downside is that the groups are generally quite large, and it might feel crowded.

Those who would like to take it a step further might consider the Pivka and Black Caves or the Otok Cave tours. These caves belong to the same system but aren’t accessible during the regular excursion. Note that these options don’t include the actual Postojna Cave itself.   

Want the best of both worlds? A “Trek Through Three Caves” does exactly what it sounds like connecting Postojna, Pivka, and Black caves in a single outing that requires 2-3 hours to complete. 

Finally, for adrenaline lovers, there are several adventure tours . In smaller groups, you will venture deep into the abyss following the footsteps of cave explorers through challenging passages and water barriers. 

These are available through prior arrangement only and cost significantly more. Still, if you prefer a truly unique experience that doesn’t feel so touristy, they’re probably worth the extra investment.

The Postojna Cave Tour

In this article, I will focus on the regular Postojna Cave excursion. It’s the one we did and a perfect choice for most people due to its simplicity and affordability.

The ticket costs €25.80 and can be purchased through the official website . Postojna Cave is a popular destination, so I recommend doing so in advance, especially in summer. If you can, try to book the earliest slot (10 or 11 am) to beat the crowds.

As a pro tip, it’s a good idea to invest an additional €3.50 into an audio guide. Because of how crowded Postojna Cave often gets, it might be difficult to follow your human guide to hear the commentary. With an audio guide, you’re not as “glued” to one person.

By the way, let me in you on a little secret. The Cave administration is eager to sell as many tickets as possible, and the groups will normally move fairly quickly one after anothe r. However, the guides don’t ever count people or check if everyone is present. 

So nothing is preventing you from falling behind and exploring Postojna Cave at your own pace. There are always tourists around so you won’t ever be left alone or stand out. Listen to the audio guide, take all the pictures you want, then board the train together with a later group.

As a quick disclaimer, this is, strictly speaking, against the rules . So I’m not suggesting you do so, but merely stating it’s possible.  

I suggest arriving some 30 minutes before your designated time slot. Postojna Cave parking lot is huge, so finding a spot and locating the entrance could take a while. If you’re late, you might end up waiting an hour or more for the next opening, so better not risk it.

At the entrance, you’ll be assigned to a group depending on your preferred language (English, Slovenian, Italian, or German) and whether or not you have an audio guide. Soon after, you will enter the cave and proceed to board the train.

What follows is fun, exciting, and massively entertaining. Not quite a rollercoaster, but close, the surroundings making it equally thrilling. The carriages, slow at first, dive into a tunnel while steadily gaining speed. Suddenly, the walls widen, and you emerge into a massive underground cavern.

Rapture, delight, disbelieve, and euphoria are just some of the feelings you experience at that very moment. All around you, there are stalactites and stalagmites, columns and arcs, hallways and passages lost in the shadows ahead.

As the train carries you deeper into the cave, the realization of its true scale starts to dawn on you. It’s not just one impressive chamber, it’s an entire subterranean world, and you’re only beginning to uncover its secrets. Welcome to Postojna Cave.

Some 10 minutes later, the carriage comes to a stop, and you disembark onto a large platform. The walking part of the excursion is about to begin.

For the next 45 minutes, you will be following the path through multiple halls, each unique and distinctive in its own way. The White Room is all pristine and shiny as if covered in ice, while in the Red Room, the walls are brown and rust-colored because of the iron in the soil. 

The Spaghetti Hall reveals a myriad of tiny stalactites hanging from the ceiling. At some point, you will even cross a bridge constructed here during WWI by the Russian prisoners of war. Hence its name — the Russian Bridge.

The path is well-marked, mostly flat, and easy to follow. It’s all concrete, so any shoes would do. There are occasional sloping sections, but no stairs, so most people won’t have any trouble making the journey.

The only thing I didn’t quite appreciate is that the guides move fairly quickly. If you’re the kind of person who likes to take in the beauty without a rush, you might struggle to keep up.

Still, the splendor of Postojna Cave more than makes up for this inconvenience. It’s a marvelous place, where each turn reveals a new secret, a remarkable feature, or a sight that takes your breath away. 

Before you know it, you’ll reach the Concert Hall. It’s the largest of all and does indeed host musical performances sometimes. There is room for up to 10 thousand spectators, which I think is pretty astonishing.

Here, you will have a few moments to roam around, photograph, and check the souvenir shop before boarding the return train.

As you are being brought back to the surface, you get one last chance to admire the incredible work of an invisible nature architect that created Postojna Cave. It is also a perfect opportunity to reflect and try to make sense of what you just witnessed.

Once back into the sunlight, feel free to stay for a while and check the various side activities and exhibitions. Or simply have lunch in one of the cafes nearby. After all, where else in Slovenia do you get a chance to taste an authentic cave burger?

To those who would like to make the trip even more engaging, Postojna Cave offers various exhibitions and side activities.

The Vivarium is a blend of a museum and a mini-zoo where you can meet some of the cave inhabitants and learn more about the subterranean environment. The star exhibit is of course an olm , the mascot and unofficial symbol of Postojna cave. 

It’s the only vertebrate living in the cave, and is often referred to as the “human fish” or “baby dragon”. So yes, one can certainly state there are real dragons inhabiting Postojna Cave , even if only baby ones.

Expo Cave Karst is an interactive exhibition that explains events and processes that lead to the creation of Postojna Cave. You’ll learn about the origin of the Karst formations and the history of the area in a manner that’s fun and engaging for kids and adults alike.

Both Vivarium and Expo Cave Karst are optional but worth seeing if you have time. The tickets are somewhat expensive to buy separately (€9.90 each), so consider a “100% Cave Experience” package that goes for €37.90 and covers both exhibitions as well as Postojna Cave admission.

Predjama Castle is located 10 kilometers northwest of Postojna Cave and is another popular side trip for the area guests. What makes it so extraordinary is that, unlike most other citadels, Predjama Castle isn’t built on top of a cliff. Instead, it’s carved right into the surface of one! 

With an enormous four-floor cave right under it and a network of secret tunnels connecting its dungeons to various hideouts and surface exits , Predjama Castle is a must for anyone fond of medieval legends and knight stories.

A standalone tour costs €15.80, but you’ll get a discount when buying it together with a Postojna Cave admission ticket. But even if you don’t fancy going inside, be sure to come by and admire Predjama Castle from outside. It’s a fascinating sight, to say the least.

In summer, there is a shuttle bus connecting Postojna Cave with Predjama castle. It’s free for those who have tickets to both attractions. Alternatively, you could reach the castle by car or via a taxi ride (you can arrange one at the Postojna cave ticket office). 

Planning the Trip

To have your trip to Postojna Cave go as smoothly and worry-free as possible, below are a few simple tips to keep in mind. Of course, be sure to also read the official list of essential rules compiled by the park administration.

Whenever you are in Slovenia! Postojna Cave is open year-round , and because of its underground location, the conditions are largely unaffected by the outside weather. No matter when you go, it’ll be dry and a comfortable 8-10 °C inside.

Summer tends to be the busiest season , with lots of people on vacations and traveling to Slovenia. If possible, try to avoid this period, as it gets quite crowded. Other than that, any month is as good as the other.

Naturally, Postojna Cave probably won’t be the only thing you intend to see while in Slovenia. This means that the best time to visit Postojna Cave is late spring or early autumn. It’s just outside the busy season, while the weather is perfect for exploring the rest of the country.

Also, keep in mind that Pivka and Black Caves as well as adventure tours are only available May through September , so plan accordingly.

Postojna Cave is conveniently located and well-connected to several popular travel destinations. While it’s easiest reachable by car, you can also get there by train or bus. 

With a car, the journey from the capital Ljubljana will only take 40 minutes. From lake Bled — around one hour. A trip from Zagreb or Venice will last around two hours, with further European cities — Salzburg, Budapest, Vienna, and Munich — all within a reasonable 4-5 hour distance.

As for public transport, there are bus connections with Ljubljana as well as train links with Vienna, Venice, Ljubljana, Zagreb, and Salzburg among other places. You can learn more about these options on the Postojna Cave website .

With all of the above, it’s easy to incorporate Postojna Cave into pretty much any itinerary. Whether you’re flying to Slovenia, Croatia, Italy, or Austria, it’s never too far away. 

Inside the caves, the temperature is at a constant 8-10°C throughout the year, so dress wisely. In summer, it might be steaming hot outside, but you won’t be doing yourself any favors by venturing in wearing just shorts and flip-flops.

I recommend jeans or long pants, a light jacket and a pair of thin gloves to keep your hands warm. As for shoes, sports shoes are a safe bet, but anything you’re comfortable walking two kilometers in should work.

Postojna Cave excursions are reasonably short and well-organized, so you don’t need much. I pretty much went in with just a camera on a strap. So if you use your phone for photos, make sure you have it and be at the entrance in time.

Other than that, a small bag or a backpack for valuables and some extra clothes could also be handy.

Photography is allowed in Postojna Cave, albeit without a flash or a tripod. The rules aren’t exactly clear on the usage of monopods, but this TripAdvisor thread seems to suggest those are also banned.

This means you’ll have to pay extra attention to getting the exposure right. It’s very dark in the caves despite the artificial light. Modern smartphones work wonders even in these conditions, but if you bring a dedicated camera, think about the settings and lenses beforehand.

Ideally, you want to pick your fastest lens. With an f2.8 lens on a full-frame camera, I still had to crank ISO to between 1250 and 2000 for most of my photos. And even then, some shots turned out too dark. With a slower lens, it’ll be even worse.

As for focal length, choose something that can go wide but also zoom in when needed, such as 16-35 mm . The extra reach is important. Postojna Cave is huge, and you’ll often want to zoom in on the subject. In that regard, I found a 17-28 mm Tamron quite limiting on the longer end.

Bringing multiple lenses is mostly pointless. The group moves quickly, and you won’t have much time to swap them around. I’d say, pick one and stick with it. 

Also, be sure to check the pictures for sharpness. It’s easy to make mistakes when you’re in a hurry. The last thing you want is to come home and discover that half of your shots are blurry. 

Lastly, always think of the composition. In a place so marvelous as Postojna Cave, it is tempting to point your camera at everything. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to convey that sense of astonishment and beauty through photos. Finding strong compositions can help with that.

Postojna may be the most famous cave complex in Slovenia, but it’s not the only one. Another strong contender is Škocjan Caves , just 30 kilometers west. And so you might be wondering — which one is the best and which one should you pick?

My answer to this is — both. Despite the obvious similarities, the two caves are very different. Postojna is larger and more touristy. While its stalactites and stalagmites are second to none, it feels more like a theme park with the focus largely on entertainment.

Škocjan Caves isn’t as popular but there is a good reason why it is a Unesco Heritage Site while Postojna isn’t. It’s more secluded and less commercialized with the administration trying to protect and preserve it. And while it does have stalactites and stalagmites, its main feature is a gorgeous underground canyon.

With a car, you can see both in a single day, and there’s no reason not to. But if I had to pick just one… it’d be Škocjan. Postojna Cave is fantastic and I had immense fun in there, but it’s Škocjan caves that truly stole my heart. You can read this article of mine to learn why.

Postojna Cave is without a doubt one of Slovenia’s most impressive landmarks . Its incredible caverns spanning many kilometers below the surface of the ground are astonishing beyond belief and are well worth a visit.

I had great fun exploring Postojna Cave and would fully recommend it to anyone going to Slovenia. It’s an adventure not to be missed.

I wholeheartedly hope you enjoyed this guide to Postojna Cave and got something useful out of it. If so, share it with your friends and on social media, and let me know what you think in the comments below. 

I’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. In the meantime, have a look at the other articles on the blog. I’m sure you will find some of them worth your while:

• Into the Glorious Abyss: Why You Must Visit the Škocjan Caves
• A Land of Wonders: 10 Great Reasons to Travel to Slovenia
• Hiking the Julian Alps: 7 Best Trails Near Lake Bled and Bohinj
• Sunrise on Top of the World: Photography Guide to Mt. Pilatus
• A Perfect Holiday: Top Things to Do and See in the Mosel Valley
• Best Landscape Photography Locations in Patagonia

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And of course, visit our Facebook page or follow me on Twitter and Instagram to get notified whenever I publish something new. 

With that, happy travels and let’s see each other soon! 

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Postojna and Bled in one day

© Janez Tolar

© Dragan Arrigler

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Visit the two biggest attractions of Slovenia in a single day. Explore one of the largest underground cave complexes in the world, the Postojna Caves and the romantic lake resort of Bled.

First, you'll be taken to Postojna to explore the mysteries of one of the most beautiful karst caves in Slovenia. After a tour of the Postojna Cave, consisting of a 27-kilometer underground system of tunnels, galleries, and chambers, you will visit the mysterious Predjama Castle, built into a cave in a cliff face, which had inspired a whole string of tales and legends.

After visiting Postojna Cave you will be taken to the charming lake resort of Bled, famous for a church on an island in the middle of a lake, a medieval castle perched on a cliff high above the lake, and splendid views of the surrounding Alpine peaks. Take a walk around the lake and taste the 'kremšnita' vanilla-custard-and-cream cake, one of the best-known Slovenian desserts. Take a boat ride to Bled Island and visit the museum at Bled Castle.

The price includes

Every day at 8:30

 11 hours (full-day trip)

• €120.00 per adult
• €60.00 per child aged 2 to 12
• €0.00 per child below the age of 2

Number of participants

This trip requires a minimum of two people to run. The maximum number of participants is eight

Language options

We recommend wearing warm clothes and trainers since the temperature in the cave is 10°C.

Optional extras

• Admission to Bled Castle (€17.00)
• Return 'pletna' boat ride (€18.00)
• Admission to the Postojna Caves and Predjama Castle(€35.00)

Optional extras such as additional activities or visits to additional sights are payable in cash during the trip.

Is Postojna Cave worth visiting? A full and honest guide

Visiting the Postojna Cave, also known as Postojnska Jama, is not just any cave experience in Slovenia. But is this renowned cave worth the hype? We’re taking you inside to see the incredible rock formations, catch a glimpse of a dragon, and enjoy the natural wonders of the hidden subterranean world. If you’re considering visiting Postojna Cave, read our honest guide to get an idea of what you are in for!

What is Postojna Cave?

The cave of Postojna is often ranked as the most visited cave in Europe. More than 39 million visitors from all over the world have entered the historic entrance of the tunnel since its opening in the early 1800s. The cave stretches for 24,120 m (79,130 ft) deep inside the earth, and it is the second longest cave system in Slovenia, second only to the Migovec System in the Triglav National Park.

The 2-million-year-old cave system of Postojna was created by the Pivka River, a karst-lost river that disappears in Planina Cave. Here, it merges with the Rak River below the earth’s surface, creating one of Europe’s largest subterranean confluences.

Postojna is also a cave setting records. To access the cave, you hop on an underground train for a 3.7-km -long journey on the world’s only double-track cave railway. The railway sneaks into some narrow tunnels and beautiful rooms, filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

One magical room is referred to as the Postojna Cave’s Dance Hall , where countless Murano-glass chandeliers elegantly hang from the ceiling, creating a fairytale atmosphere.

Looking for more caves in Slovenia? Don’t miss Krizna Jama and its underground lake !

How to get to Postojna Cave?

Postojna Cave is hard to miss. There are signs indicating its location all around Slovenia, as it’s one of the country’s top attractions. The cave is located in the town of Postojna, about 50km southwest of Slovenia’s capital city Ljubljana, and it can be reached by car or by public transport.

Although located in Slovenia, the Postojna Cave is also very close to the Italian city of Trieste and not far from Rijeka in Croatia.

Postojna Cave is about 40 minutes from Ljubljana via the E61 road. The E61 is a road with tolls so you’ll need an E-Vignette to drive there. We got ours on evinjeta.dars.si and it cost €15 for 7 days.

➤ From Lake Bled: The Postojna Cave is 1-hour (100km) away from Lake Bled, on a toll road. A toll-free road option is available but it takes twice as long.

➤ From Trieste, Italy : Drive on the E61 road in direction of Ljubljana. The total drive time is about 35 minutes, and you need the same Vignette as mentioned above.

➤ From Rijeka, Croatia : Postojna Cave can be visited on a day trip from the city of Rijeka in Croatia. The ride takes 1h 30m on a toll-free road and it’s just 70km away.

🅿️ PARKING AT POSTOJNA: Being amongst Slovenia’s top tourist attractions, the Postojna Cave comes has huge parking areas dedicated to cars, busses, and campervans. Even though the entrance ticket to Postojna isn’t exactly cheap, keep in mind that parking is not included in the fee. A full-day parking ticket costs €6 .

🚆 PUBLIC TRANSPORT:

From Ljubljana, take the Ljubljana – Postojna train . Trains leave every hour all day long and the travel time is about an hour. An adult ticket costs €5.80. You can find information on train timetables and fares on potniski.sz.si .

Postojna is right on the Vienna-Venice railway line with connections to Zagreb, Salzburg, Rijeka and Koper.

You can also take the bus from Ljubljana to the town of Postojna , which leaves several times a day. More bus options to Postojna Cave can be found here .

Visiting options at Postojna Cave & Ticket Info

There are several tour options when it comes to visiting the Postojna Cave. During high season, such as in the summer months, expect there to be many people visiting and several guided tours inside the cave.

Due to the complexity of the cave, guided tours are your only option if you want to visit. The following tours and prices are updated as of October 2022.

• Postojna Cave Tour – €27.90 : This is the base ticket to visit the Postojna Cave. With this ticket, you will hop on the train for a 2km ride through some enchanting cave halls, the Gothic Hall and the Congress Hall. After that, you’ll get off the train and walk through the Great Mountain, the Russian Bridge and the Beautiful Cave, where you can admire the “Brilliant” (the most famous stalagmite and the symbol of Postojna Cave). Lastly, you will hop on the train again and go back to the surface after 1h 30 min.

The basic Postojna Cave Tour takes every day, several times a day. The frequency of the visits ranges from 3 times a day in low season (November-March) to 14 times a day during the months of July and August.

• Combined Ticket (Postojna Cave Tour + Predjama Castle) – €40.30: For those interested in also visiting the nearby Predjama Castle (€16.90) , you can buy a combined ticket which includes the Postojna Cave Tour and the Predjama Castle for a total of €40.30 instead of 44.80€.

• Other Combined Tickets: There are also ticket options which include visits to the Postojna Cave, the Vivarium and the Expo Cave Karst with (or without) the Predjama Castle. The option with the Cave, the Vivarium, the Expo and the Castle costs €46.60 , while the one without the castle costs €39.20 .

• Trek through Three Caves – €60 : This option includes the same visit described in the Postojna Cave Tour, with the addition of two separate caves: Black Cave and Pivka Cave. The train ride as well as the trail inside the cave is shared with the previous tour, but at some point along the trail you’ll be walking away from the other groups through some man-made tunnels built during the period between WWI and WWII. The trek takes 2-3 hours and no special equipment is required to complete it, however, this trek is only available from May through September .

• Adventure Tours – €300 : For more adventurous backpackers, check out one of the Adventure Tours . For this tour, you’ll be provided with caving boots and oversuits, fitted with a rope, a headlamp and a helmet, and you will set off for an adventure into the Postojna accompanied by experienced guides. This tour is designed for smaller groups (2-3 people), and it’s only available by reserving in advance. This tour option is available from May through September .

GETTING TICKETS – You can buy tickets either online or at the ticket office located at the Postojna Cave, near the entrance. Group tours are available in your preferred language of English, Slovenian, Italian, or German .

Find more information and book your tickets on Postojna Cave’s official website .

Our experience at Postojna Cave – A detailed guide

We visited Postojna Cave on a weekend in the middle of August, which is the worst possible time to do anything in Europe. August, in fact, is the month of the year when most Europeans get their holidays, and its central weeks are the busiest ones. Since we expected the place to be crowded, we opted for the Trek through the Three Caves tour hoping to have a more private experience.

The entrance of the cave is located at the end of a huge complex of restaurants, bars, shops, and even a hotel. The ticket office is located right there among the shops, and it is possible to buy tickets there if you haven’t purchased them in advance online. From the ticket office, head left towards the entrance of the cave. Here, the cliff has been carved out by nature, and the side of the opening grants access to Postojna Cave giving an idea of what awaits you.

Regardless of the tour option you choose, the visit begins with a 2km train ride through the natural marvels of the Postojna Cave. The train doesn’t go extremely fast but isn’t particularly slow either. Visitors are asked not to lean out of their seats while the train is moving, and you should definitely obey that rule as the railway passes through some big halls and some very narrow tunnels.

The ride is fun and also something you haven’t experienced before. What makes it thrilling isn’t the speed nor the acceleration but the surroundings, as you get to feast your eyes on different cave halls and rock formations for 10 minutes straight.

Some 10 minutes later, the train comes to a stop in the heart of Postojna Cave. You will get off on a big platform and start your walk through the marvels of Postojna Cave. Your guide will show you the path to follow and tell you interesting facts about the rock formations of the cave and the history of this place.

As the walk continues, the path descends deeper into the cave passing places like the Russian Bridge (built by prisoners of war in 1916) and countless more stalactites and stalagmites.

Discover the Black Cave

After some 30 minutes, we left the trail of the Postojna Cave Tour to take a 100m-long tunnel leading to the Black Cave . The cave is quite big, measuring 3.3km, but you only get to see part of it with this tour. Its name is given by its colour, as a thin black layer covers every rock of this cave. What makes the Black Cave special is also its wonderful flowstone formations .

The Black Cave used to be a separate cave until it was later connected to Postojna by means of a man-made tunnel. The tunnel leading to the Black Cave was built by the Italian army during WWI and WWII. The Black Cave is also colder than Postojna Cave, with a constant temperature of just 5°C inside. It might seem like a small difference, but you can definitely feel it, so dress accordingly!

Pivka Cave at Postojna

From the Black Cave, the trail continues towards the Pivka Cave. On a good day, the Trek through the Three Caves also involves a section outside the caves. In that scenario, you would exit the cave and proceed outside toward the entrance of the Pivka Cave. When we visited, however, a huge thunderstorm hit the area of Postojna and our guide decided it would have been a better idea to explore the caves from the inside and backtrack on our way back.

We entered the Pivka Cave through a passage from the Black Cave and headed towards its entrance. As soon as we entered the cave we were astonished. The Pivka Cave offers a unique view of the underground channel of the river Pivka.

VISITING TIP: Even though it’s an underground river, the river Pivka behaves just like any other river in the country, and its level is much lower in the summertime .

The trek inside the Pivka Cave ends at its entrance, which – just like the cave – is impressive. There are stairs leading all the way up to reach the surface, however, even though the thunderstorm was gone, after a quick break we headed back to the Black Cave to return to Postojna.

After retracing our steps all the way to the Black Cave, we walked through the tunnel and we found our feet again in the Postojna Cave. From there, the trek continued on the remaining part of the Postojna Cave Tour we haven’t seen yet. And needless to say, we were welcomed by more and more rock formations which culminated with the most beautiful one: The Brilliant!

The Brilliant is a five-metre-tall bright-white stalagmite, and it’s considered the symbol of Postojna.

Meet the “baby dragon” of Postojna

The last stop of the hike is a meet-up with the “baby dragon” of Postojna. Also known as the proteus, this human fish is the only vertebrate living exclusively underground . You can see one specimen in an aquarium near the end of the trail. It is very important to mention that the baby dragon is extremely sensitive to light, so make sure your flash is turned off when taking pictures.

The visit ends with another 10-minute train ride back to the outside world. The views are once again incredible. Being a double railway, you’ll be now following a separate route facing the opposite way, so the scenery will feel different and not boring at all!

Must-Know Tips & Facts

• Arrive 30 minutes before the time slot of your visit. Parking is huge and it takes some time to go from your car to the cave entrance.
• The temperature inside the cave is around 10 degrees Celsius , which means it’s quite fresh.
• Do not touch anything.
• Expect a lower level of the Pivka river during summer.
• You can take photos inside the caves, but flash and tripods are not allowed.
• There are several toilets outside the caves, all of which are free of charge.

Best time to visit Postojna Cave

If you can choose, the best time to visit the Postojna Cave is late spring or early autumn.

The Postojna Cave can be visited year-round , also during festive days. The month of August and the winter holidays at the end of December are the busiest times of the year, as most Europeans are on vacation. During the rest of the year, you should try to avoid weekends, since its proximity to Italy makes the Postojna Cave an ideal destination for a day trip from Slovenia’s neighbouring country.

Due to its underground location, the Postojna Cave is immune to weather conditions and it can be visited at any time of the day, also on rainy days. The temperature is constant throughout the cave and it’s equal to 8-10°C all day long.

Photography Tips at Postojna Cave

Even though the Postojna Cave is entirely lit by artificial light, the environment amongst its chambers is very dark. If you plan on taking photos inside the caves, here are some tips for you!

First, you need a wide and fast lens. Anything around 24mm or lower will work, and an aperture of f/2.8 or lower will make your life much easier. We took our photos with a Canon 14-35mm f/4 and we did struggle a bit with that maximum aperture, having to raise the ISO so high at times, especially in the Black Cave and Pivka Cave which are darker.

Tripods are not allowed in the caves, but take advantage of the handrails as they are often flat and you can lay your camera on that, bringing down the ISO and using longer shutter speeds.

If you want to take photos without any people, try to be the first or the last of your group. This trick, however, will only work if there aren’t other groups before you, and your guide won’t be happy to wait for you.

Is Postojna Cave worth visiting? Our honest review

The short answer is yes because the Postojna Cave is impressive. Especially if you visit Slovenia during the low season, go visit the cave of Postojna and enjoy its beauty. The Postojna Cave is an authentic show of nature, and it’s not something you want to miss.

A more complete answer is: go visit Postojna but be aware you will be sharing the cave with literally thousands of people. Set your expectations accordingly, expect to be shoulder to shoulder with other visitors, and prepare for a relatively fast-paced visit.

Also, the trek through the three caves felt like we couldn’t really stop to enjoy the views or take photos, and being in a smaller group didn’t help at all. In fact, the first part of the visit was shared with all the other groups, so you’ll still be surrounded by dozens of people at each point. On the other hand, the section including Black Cave and Pivka Cave was beautiful and wasn’t full of visitors, but even that felt so fast-paced.

Our guide was nice but he would always complain if someone would fall behind and be late, while the group would always go incredibly fast. It’s kinda sad being forced to go so fast while there are so many things to see and appreciate.

Hike Slemenova Špica – the best trail on Vršič Pass, Slovenia

Bagni san filippo – stunning free hot springs in italy.

[…] The Cross Cave is a huge underground complex located in Slovenia’s Lož Valley, about 60km south of Ljubljana, and it’s named after the nearby Holy Cross Church (Cerkev sv.Križa) in Podlož. It is also not far from Slovenia’s most visited caves: Postojnska Jama (Postojna Cave). […]

[…] you travelling to Slovenia? Don’t miss the caves of Postojna and […]

[…] Postojna Caves: Full Guide […]

The caves are incredible and definitely worth a visit. Unfortunately, be wary of buying the castle and cave tour. When I asked about getting from the caves tour to the castle (I was not driving), the agent at the check in desk said I would brought with my group directly to the castle. This was important as I was on a tight time restriction. Once the cave tour is finished, you are left to our devices to get the shuttle bus to the castle. This only goes once every hour. I went to reception to refund the castle part of my ticket as I did not have time to attend and the staff were shockingly poor. The woman mocked my situation and tole me “I should have asked more questions when I bought the ticket”. On a side note, there were two more groups left in the exact same position as myself that day and dealt with similarly.

Hi Joshua! I’m sorry to hear about your experience, and thank you for sharing your feedback. Hopefully, it will help other travelers.

I’m glad you enjoyed the caves despite this setback.

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Top 5 tours for visiting Postojna Cave in Slovenia

Do you want to visit Postojna Cave and are struggling to decide which tour is the best fit for you? Let me help you!

I am from Slovenia and have lived in Ljubljana for years, so I get this question a lot whenever I have friends visiting. To make things easier for you, I have put together the top 5 tours for visiting Postojna Cave .

I did my best to put together tours of different price ranges to make sure you find something that fits your needs, but please bear in mind that the cave entrance ticket alone costs almost € 30.

Let’s dive in!

Don’t have time to read it all?

This day trip from Ljubljana to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle is our most recommended tour for visiting these incredible attractions.

Day trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

• Pick-up in Ljubljana
• Tickets included
• Audio guides included

Bled & Postojna Cave

• Combine the best attractions in Slovenia
• Full day trip

Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle and Piran

• Visit the seaside
• Hotel pick-up

Top 5 Postojna Cave tours – the full list

To help you decide which is the best Postojna Cave tour for your style, I will describe below what each of our selected top tours includes and why they deserve a spot on this list.

I did my best to select varied options to make sure you will find something that fits your needs.

1. Half-day trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

In my opinion, this is the best tour for visiting Postojna and Predjama Castle .

This tour is organized as a half-day trip from Ljubljana and what I love the most about it is that all tickets and audio guides are included , so you do not have to worry about a thing. Just get ready on the day of the tour and enjoy your time.

Pay close attention when buying any Postojna Cave tour because many of them will not include the ticket in the price, which means you can expect to pay an additional € 30 to go inside the cave.

This tour also offers pick-up in main locations in Ljubljana, which is extremely convenient for anyone staying in the city center.

2. Full-day tour to Lake Bled, Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

This tour deserves a spot in this list because it combines a visit to the main attractions in Slovenia: Lake Bled and Postojna Cave .

Organized as a full-day trip from Ljubljana, the tour will first take you to visit Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle (tickets are also included). 

Afterward, you will go to Lake Bled with tickets included for visiting Bled Castle. What I like about this tour is that you will have enough time to explore a bit the area around the lake and even go for a swim if you will be visiting during the summer.

3. Tour to Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle and Piran

The great thing about this tour is that it combines a visit to Postojna Cave and the Slovenian seaside town of Piran .

Piran is my favorite city on the Slovenian coast. Especially if you will be traveling during the summer when the daytime is long, you will see that this city is extremely cute and bustling with tourists.

The biggest downside of this tour is that it does not include the tickets to Postojna Cave, so you will have to buy those on the side.

4. Private tour to Postojna Cave and Lake Bled

Don’t like sharing your day with a full group and being dependent on other people’s timelines? Then consider this private tour instead!

This tour will take you to Postojna Cave and Lake Bled, with the option of adjusting the itinerary based on your wishes . Since this is a private tour, it gives you more comfort and flexibility about what you want to see and do.

This is a full-day tour of approximately 10 hours, which is plenty of time to explore the best of what Slovenia has to offer.

5. Postojna Cave tour with a visit to the Lipica Stud Farm

This is the perfect day trip for families . It is a private tour, which gives additional comfort and privacy to your family day trip.

This tour includes a visit to Postojna Cave followed by a visit to the Lipica Stud Farm.

Located on the Slovenian seaside, the Lipica Stud Farm is famous for its white Lipizzaner horses that are bred and trained on-site. They have riding lessons and an overall beautiful farm where you can take a tour, have a picnic, and enjoy the horses.

Afterward, this Postojna Cave tour also includes a visit to Piran, one of the most picturesque cities in the Slovenian seaside.

Note that this tour does not include admission tickets to the attractions.

Tours to Postojna Cave from other destinations

The most traditional way to visit Postojna Cave is as a day trip from Ljubljana . However, you can visit Postojna Cave from almost any destination in Slovenia, whether you are staying on the coast such as Koper or Piran, or in Lake Bled, or any other destination.

Below, I have listed a few options for day trip tours to Postojna Cave that start in other places instead of Ljubljana.

• Full-day Postojna Cave tour from Zagreb, capital of Croatia
• Half-day Postojna Cave tour from Koper
• Half-day Postojna Cave tour from Rijeka, in Croatia
• Private Postojna Cave tour from Trieste, in Italy

Don’t want to book a full tour? Organize your own visit to Postojna Cave instead

You don’t need to book a tour if you don’t want to. It is also perfectly possible to visit Postojna Cave on your own and buy the tickets on-site.

I recommend the tour as a great alternative for those who will not be traveling with their own car, but if you rent a car for your trip to Slovenia , it can be more convenient to visit Postojna Cave at your own pace.

Read our guide about visiting Postojna Cave to discover all you need to know to organize your visit.

I hope this guide has helped you decide on the best tour for visiting Postojna Cave during your trip. I understand that people have different needs and priorities, but I truly believe this selection of top 5 tours to Postojna Cave are the best offers available out there.

If you have any additional questions, let us know and we are happy to help!

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More about visiting Slovenia

• Visiting Lake Bled
• What to do in Lake Bohinj
• Visiting Moon Bay beach, the most beautiful beach in Slovenia
• Hiking in Logar Valley
• A visit to Ljubljana Castle

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Slovenia, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

• Flights : Get affordable flights to Slovenia on  Skyscanner.com . 
• Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  SafetyWing  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
• Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
• Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
• Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.
• SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.
• Slovenia Map: Check out our custom-made Map with 290+ must-see spots!
• Recommended hiking gear : Check our recommendations on Amazon if you will be hiking in Slovenia!

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Edin (Edo for friends like you) is the Slovenian half of Mauka. Even though Edo was born in Novo Mesto (Slovenia), he has Bosnian origins and has spent most of his life exploring the Balkan Region. Now, with Fernanda, he has expanded his travel borders to explore more of Europe, South America, and the rest of the world. He is the technical master behind the blog, but he also adventures as a writer when it comes to giving tips about destinations he is passionate about.

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• Experiences

Unveiling the Subterranean Wonder: Exploring Postojna Cave

Nestled in the heart of Slovenia lies a realm of underground magic that has captivated visitors for centuries – Postojna Cave. As one of the most mesmerizing natural wonders in Europe, this limestone marvel offers an otherworldly experience that will leave you in awe of the Earth’s hidden treasures.

A Journey into the Depths: Postojna Cave’s Grandeur

Step into the mysterious realm of Postojna Cave, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of stalactites and stalagmites that have been patiently sculpted by the passage of time. The grandeur of the caverns and halls will take your breath away as you venture deeper into the vast underground network, which spans over 24 kilometers. The labyrinthine passageways seem like an enchanting maze, beckoning you to explore further into the depths.

The Cave Train: A Unique Adventure

Embark on a thrilling cave train ride that will carry you through the mesmerizing chambers of Postojna Cave. As you glide smoothly through the dark tunnels, your knowledgeable guide will narrate captivating tales of the cave’s history and formation, revealing the secrets hidden within the ancient rocks. This unique experience allows you to cover a significant part of the cave’s expanse while enjoying a front-row view of its stunning formations.

The Spectacle of the Vivarium Proteus: A Living Fossil

Postojna Cave is not only a geological wonder but also a sanctuary for an extraordinary creature known as the proteus or “human fish.” This rare and mysterious amphibian, a true living fossil, has adapted to the cave’s dark environment over millions of years. Visitors have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of these fascinating creatures in the cave’s Vivarium Proteus exhibition, gaining insight into their unique characteristics and peculiar way of life.

A Musical Journey through the Cave: Experience the Concert Hall

Imagine attending a concert in one of the most breathtaking underground venues in the world. Postojna Cave’s Concert Hall offers a magical setting for musical performances, where the stalactites hanging from the ceiling create a natural acoustic wonder. The harmonious melodies reverberating through the caverns create an unforgettable experience, infusing the space with a sense of wonder and enchantment.

Predjama Castle: The Cave’s Magnificent Neighbor

Just a stone’s throw away from Postojna Cave, another marvel awaits – Predjama Castle. Perched dramatically on a vertical cliff, this medieval fortress is a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. Explore the labyrinthine chambers and hear the stories of daring knights and their legendary escapades within the castle’s walls. The castle’s symbiotic relationship with the cave makes for a perfect combination, providing an enriching experience that connects history, culture, and nature.

Sustainable Tourism and Preservation Efforts

Postojna Cave takes great pride in its commitment to sustainable tourism and the preservation of its delicate underground ecosystem. The guided tours follow strict regulations to minimize human impact on the cave’s delicate formations, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at its beauty.

Plan Your Adventure to Postojna Cave

As you plan your visit to Slovenia, make sure to include a journey into the heart of Postojna Cave on your itinerary. The majesty of this subterranean wonder will take your breath away and leave you with unforgettable memories of a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience. So, gear up for a journey into the depths of this underground fairy-tale and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Postojna Cave.

Postojna Cave: Experiencing an Open-Air Train Ride Through a Cave in Slovenia

• Post last modified: September 24, 2024
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: January 25, 2024
• Post category: Europe

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There are millions of caves in the world, and after traveling to a lot of them, it's hard to really see a ton of differences from one to another. Well, that's where Postojna Cave in Slovenia comes in, which is one of the most unique cave experiences in the world!

Postojna Cave is a whopping 24 km long, and 5 km of it are accessible to the public. But in order to experience the cave, there is an open-air train ride that runs through 3.5 km of it!

What used to be known as a hidden gem, has now becomes one of the biggest tourist attractions in Slovenia. While we tend to try to avoid the crowds, it certainly is a unique experience. In this post we're going to share all of the details for visiting, what to expect, and tips for having an optimal experience.

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📍 Where is Postojna Cave in Slovenia?

Postojna Cave is located in the town of Postojna, which is in south west Slovenia . It is 54 km away from Ljubljana (Slovenia's capital), and 47 km away from Trieste, Italy.

How to Get to Postojna Cave in Slovenia

Postojna Cave can easily be reached from both Ljubljana and Trieste, which are both just a 40-45 minute drive away. You can also reach there from a number of cities around the country. You can get to Postojna Cave in Slovenia by driving, taking a bus, taking a train, or by taking a tour.

🚙 How to Visit Postojna Caves from Ljubljana

Ljubljana is definitely the easiest to visit Postojna Cave from, as it is the capital, and one of the nearest big cities to the attraction.

Your options for getting there are as follows:

🚌 Take a bus from Ljubljana to Postojna Cave (there is one hourly from the main station)

🚊 Take a train from Ljubljana to Postojna (then walk 25 minutes or get a taxi)

🚗  Rent a car from Ljubljana Airport  

🚐  Take a tour to Postojna Cave from the center of the city.

How to Visit Postojna Cave from Other Cities

You can easily visit Postojna cave in Slovenia from a few other cities (both domestic and international), as it is located along a train line connecting Vienna and Venice .

🚆 Trains to Postojna, Slovenia

Rijeka, Koper, and Ljubljana are all under and hour away by train, while you can reach Postojna Cave from Venice or Zagreb in two hours. Some other cities that can easily connect to Postojna include Salzburg, Vienna , Budapest , Dubrovnik and Belgrade , all of which are just a few hours away.

Here are some trains to Postojna Cave that you can book online:

• Salzburg to Postojna
• Venice to Postojna
• Vienna to Postojna

🚐 Tours to Postojna Cave in Slovenia

Ljubljana is the most common city to get tours to Postojna Cave from. However, you can also find tours that go to Postojna Cave from Koper, Portoroz, Rijeka, Rovinj, and Zagreb.

Many tours also include Predjama Castle, which is another popular nearby attraction. If you are planning on going on your own though, you can purchase combo tickets that offer both attractions for a discount.

Bonus: Those that purchase combo tickets for Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle get a free shuttle from one to the other.

Predjama Castle is often included in Postojna Cave tours.

🚗 Renting a Car in Slovenia

When we visited Postojna Cave, we had visited with our rental car. With all of the cool things to do around Slovenia, we found a rental car to be super ideal, and allowed us to maximize our time.

If you have a car, the drive is just 45 minutes from Ljubljana, and there is a massive parking lot right on site.

🅿️ Parking at Postojna Cave

The good news is that there is plenty of room to park, and the parking lot is monitored and safe. The bad news is that parking is unfortunately not included in the ticket to visit Postojna Cave, and has a rate of 6 euros.

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Postojna Cave in Slovenia: The Experience

Now that you know how to get to Posotjna Cave in Slovenia, let's get to the fun stuff!

Postojna Cave offers a variety of tours, including the following experiences: Vivarium, Expo Cave Karst, Butterflies of the World Exhibition, Secret Rooms of Hotel Jama, Predjama Castle, and a trek through three caves. 

We only had the time to do the Postojna Cave Tour, so we will be sharing the info to that tour itself, as well as give you some basic information about the add ons. Here is everything you need to know about the experience of visiting Postojna Cave itself.

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🎫 Getting Tickets for Postojna Cave in Slovenia

Tickets can be purchased online, or right on site. We definitely suggest getting your tickets in advance, to insure that you get onto a tour right away. Keep in mind also that there are a ton of people visiting, so lines also may be quite long.

Once you get your ticket you'll have a few different ways to kill time which waiting for your tour, as there are plenty of amenities at Postojna Cave .

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🗣 Postojna Cave Tour

Once the tour starts you'll be separated into groups of 20-25. Your guide will give you a quick briefing before starting, and you should put on a layer or two before going in, as it is significantly colder inside (10 degrees Celsius!).

🚂 The Train Ride Through Postojna Cave

You'll board the train and it will go at a moderate speed through the first 3.5 km of the cave. There will be different rooms of the cave, and some with lights or even chandeliers! This part is super impressive, and definitely one you'll want to capture.

Taking pictures and videos is certainly challenging due to the low light and speed of the train, so set your aperture as low as possible.

Don't stress about pictures or videos in the beginning though. You'll actually be going back the same way you came, so simply sit back and enjoy the incredible views as you ride through this impressive cave.

🚶🏻‍♀️ The Walking Tour Through Postojna Cave

Part two of the tour is the guided tour, where you'll slowly go from room to room and learn all of the interesting details about the cave. This part is about 1 km, and is suitable for all ages and physical abilities, as well as strollers, as the walkways are relatively flat and have handrails.

Postojna Cave is well structured for tourism.

We personally didn't enjoy this as much, as it felt super rushed, and there were far too many people! It felt like we were getting shuffled around like cattle, and even waiting until the end of the room to get a picture was difficult because the next group is following so closely behind.

There are a ton of tour groups that go one after the other.

For this reason we would suggest going at the end of the day. All big tour companies come in the morning, which means even if you go right when they open, you'll face the same problem that we did. The afternoon has less groups, so naturally it'll be a bit less overwhelming.

🛍 Finishing the Walking Tour Through Postojna Cave

The last room is certainly one of the most impressive, and one we suggest heading to the front of the line for. This is also where you'll have a small gift shop, which we skipped to make sure we were first in line for the front of the train.

Alternatively, if you are able to make it to the last tour, we'd sit back and wait to be at the end of the train.

The ride back is just as beautiful as the first time going through it, and is about 15 minutes.

Try to get to the front so you have the best views on the way back.

🏁 Finishing the Postojna Cave Tour

After the 90-minute tour you'll exit the cave into the bright light of the outdoors. Make sure to have sunglasses, so that you can properly adjust to the light distance.

You'll then be able to go back to the big gift shop, have a bite to eat, or make your way to your next attraction.

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🏰 Other Activities at Postojna Cave in Slovenia

While the star of the show is certainly the traditional 90-minutes tour through Postojna Cave, there are also enough activities offered to stay the entire day! With various ticket options, you can choose from a variety of packages to choose from. Here are the different activities that you can add onto your ticket at Postojna Cave.

• Predjama Castle : a beautiful renaissance castle built into a cave
• The Secret Rooms of Hotel Jama : more than just a hotel, this establishment had a double life, and its secret rooms are revealed on this unique tour.
• Vivarium : an exhibition of the 150 animal species that live inside the cave
• EXPO Cave Karst Exhibition Tours : an interactive exhibition that is great for children, and includes 2 free exhibits: Life within a Billion Years and Butterflies of the World
• The Cave Under Predjama Castle tour : an intricate 4-floor cave under the castle for adventure lovers
• Privka & Black Cave Tour : two karst caves that were discovered as being connected to Postojna
• Otok Cave : a stunning cave between Postojna & Predjama
• 3-Cave Tour : a 2-3 trek through 3 of the caves in Postojna - for the adventure lovers!

Postojna Cave has more than just its main cave.

Postojna Cave Amenities

Postojna Cave is very well developed for tourism, and included a variety of amenities on the premises.

🚽 Bathrooms

Once you head inside, go down the stairs and there are big bathrooms with plenty of stalls. They are well-maintained, so there is no need to have your own soap or toilet paper.

🍴 Food & Drink

There is a large buffet-style restaurant inside the building, which has both indoor and outdoor seating. There are a variety of options with, with many local Slovenian dishes.

You can also find quick snacks like coffee, sandwiches, or chips in the small shop.

There is a restaurant with buffet-style food on site.

🛍 Souvenirs

There are two gift shops on site. One is at the main entrance building, which you can access before or after your cave visit. The other is at the end of the walking tour in the cave, before the train ride back to the cave entrance.

There is a big souvenir shop at the entrance of the caves.

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Postojna Cave Price & Timetable

Postojna Cave in Slovenia is open year-round, 7 days a week. The tours are on the hour, and vary depending on the month. Here are the times for the tours each month:

🕘 Opening Hours of Postojna Cave in Slovenia

• January : 10 am, 12 pm, & 3 pm
• February : 10 am, 12 pm, & 3 pm
• March : 10 am, 12 pm, & 3 pm
• April : 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, & 4 pm
• May : 9 am - 5 pm (every hour on the hour, with the last tour at 5:00)
• June : 9 am - 5 pm (every hour on the hour, with the last tour at 5:00)
• July : 9 am - 6 pm (every hour on the hour, with the last tour at 6:00)
• August : 9 am - 6 pm (every hour on the hour, with the last tour at 6:00)
• September : 9 am - 5 pm (every hour on the hour, with the last tour at 5:00)
• October :  10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, & 4 pm
• November : 10 am, 12 pm, & 3 pm
• December : 10 am, 12 pm, & 3 pm

🏰 Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle is the most popular combo ticket that you can purchase. The castle is 9 km away, and there is a free shuttle that takes you from one experience to the other. You can visit the castle at any time you wish, as long as it is within 30 days of your ticket date.

Here are the times Predjama Castle is open year round:

• January : 10 am - 4 pm
• February : 10 am - 4 pm
• March : 10 am - 4 pm
• April : 10 am - 5 pm
• May : 9 am - 6 pm
• June : 9 am - 6 pm
• July : 9 am - 7 pm
• August : 9 am - 7 pm
• September : 9 am - 6 pm
• October :  10 am - 5 pm
• November : 10 am - 4 pm
• December : 10 am - 4 pm

🏨 The Secret Rooms of Hotel Jama

April, May, June, September, & October it is open from 9 am to 4 pm, while in July and August, it is open one extra hour until 5 pm. From September to March you can only get tickets by prior arrangement.

This is an easy add on, allowing you to experience some of the animals that Postojna Cave is home to.

Here are the times Vivarium is available year round:

• January : 10 am - 3 pm
• February : 10 am - 3 pm
• March : 10 am - 3 pm
• April : 10 am - 4 pm
• May : 9 am - 5 pm
• June : 9 am - 5 pm
• July : 9 am - 6 pm
• August : 9 am - 6 pm
• September : 9 am - 5 pm
• October :  10 am - 4 pm
• November : 10 am - 3 pm
• December : 10 am - 3 pm

🔭 EXPO Cave Karst Exhibition Tours

This exhibition has the same opening times as Vivarium, so you can simply refer to the Vivarium timetable above.

🦇 The Cave Under Predjama Castle Tour

The cave under Predjama Castle tour is available only in the months of May until September. In May, June, & September there is one tour at 11 am, and in July & August there are tours at 11 am, 1 pm, and 4 pm.

🖤 Privka & Black Caves Tour

These tours are also only available from May until September, but rather than fixed times, you need to make prior arrangements to do this tour.

🥷 Otok Cave

Just like Privka & Black Caves, Otok Cave is also only available to be visited by prior arrangement, and can be done from May until October.

💵 Prices of the Different Tours at Postojna Cave in Slovenia

• Postojna Cave: 29.90 €
• Postojna Cave, Vivarium, Butterflies Exhibition 35.50 €
• Postojna Cave, Vivarium, & EXPO Cave Karst 39.90 €
• Postojna Cave and the Secret Rooms of Hotel Jama 39.90 €
• Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle: 41.90 €
• Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle, Vivarium, Butterflies Exhibition 47.50 €
• Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle and EXPO 47.50 €
• Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle, Vivarium, and EXPO Cave Karst 51.90 €
• 3 Caves Trek 90 €

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Other Things to Keep in Mind While Visiting Postojna Cave in Slovenia

Now you know almost all of the details for visiting Postojna Cave in Slovenia. But first, here are a few last things to keep in mind!

👗 What to Wear to Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave is 10 degrees Celsius, so you'll definitely want to bring a jacket or sweater with you for inside. The floor can also be wet and slipper, so you shouldn't wear any long or pants that could potentially drag on the floor and get wet.

We suggest leggings and shoes that have traction and can get wet, as well as sleeves on top.

📆 The Best Time to Visit Postojna Cave in Slovenia 

The cave can be visited year-round, and is always in fine conditions to visit whatever time of the year!

The summers are definitely the most crowded, so we recommend you to visit in the early spring or late fall. This way, you can do all of the activities that Postojna Cave has to offer, and eliminate some of the crowds.

We also suggest going in the afternoon for the main tour of Postojna Cave, as this is after the majority of the big tour groups go.

🎒 How to Prepare for Visiting Postojna Cave

Here are some of the things we suggest bringing to Postojna Cave

• Comfortable clothes
• Jacket or sweater
• Sneakers (especially if you're doing one of the treks)
• Zippered Bag or Backpack take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
• Power Bank  (we use Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
• Action Camera  (we use the Insta 360 X3 because it's small & waterproof)
• Sunglasses (for when you leave the cave)
• Camera  (we use the  Sony A7Riii )
• Lens with low aperture for good photos  (we use the  Sony GM 14 F1.8 )

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🤔 Is Postojna Cave Worth It?

Postojna Cave is definitely worth the unique experience. However, we did not feel that way for part of the tour since it was so packed.

We definitely think it's worth doing a combo ticket, and visiting during a time that isn't packed with tour groups, which takes away from the experience.

Postojna Cave in Slovenia is a unique experience, and is worth it if you can avoid the crowds.

Tips for Visiting Postojna Cave in Slovenia

Here are a few reminders to have an optimal visit to Postojna Cave:

• Book your tickets in advance .
• Get a combo package , so that you can enjoy the other unique experiences.
• Reserve a spot on one of the last tours for the main Postojna cave tour.
• Dress warm !
• Bring a lens with a low aperture .

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So are you ready to explore the incredible Postojna Cave in Slovenia? Despite it being a bit touristy, it is definitely one of the things to add to your bucket list . If you'd like to learn more about the logistics of visiting and getting around the country, make sure to check out our Complete Slovenia Travel Guide for all of the info.

Planning on also visiting other attractions throughout the country and around Europe? We have a list of unique places to visit in Slovenia , as well as plenty of other European travel guides for you to check out! Finally, make sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter , so that you can receive exclusive content, as well as special discounts on our  products and services .

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Visiting The Amazing Postojna Caves, Slovenia

With an average of one million visitors per year, Postojna Caves are by far Slovenia’s most popular tourist attraction. And I must say, it’s easy to see why. I first heard of this cave complex a long time ago, but only recently did I have the chance to see it for myself.

Postojna caves were discovered in the 17th century. But it only started to receive visitors about two hundred years later. One of the first visitors was the Austrian-Hungarian emperor himself. Today, regular citizens, like you and I, can visit the cave as part of a tour.

VISITING THE POSTOJNA CAVES

I arrived in the town of Postojna on a warm summer day and went straight to the park. Judging by the number of people and buses, I thought the caves were going to be awfully packed – more on that in a minute.

With my ticket in hand, I went to the entrance and I could see River Pivka, responsible for the cave formation, running into the hollow. I was wearing shorts and they told me the temperature inside is around 10 degrees Celsius. Lucky me, they have cloaks for hire (€4 each), so I couldn’t freeze in there.

Postojna Caves are 24km (15 miles) long, but we can only visit 5km (3.1 miles). To go into the caves you have to take an open train, which takes you in for just over one 1km. Already on the train, you can see a lot of interesting rock formations, many stalactites and stalagmites. On this route, there are some very narrow corridors and low ceilings. One of the most remarkable parts of the train journey is the moment we enter a large room with a very high ceiling, adorned with a giant crystal chandelier.

As you walk around the caves, it’s hard not to be impressed by the rock formations. Some resemble deep sea corals, others seem to have been sculpted by an artist.

Each of these rock formations has different names. Stalactites are rock formations created by water dripping from the ceiling. They are attached to the cave ceiling, pointing down. These stalactites tend to keep dripping and the water is rich in calcite. Over the years – thousands of years – these accumulate, creating other formations pointing up – the stalagmites .

Over time, these two can meet and form a column. When the water doesn’t drip, but runs slowly in a stream, calcite is deposited and this forms the draperies , one of the most interesting rock cave formations.

Postojna Caves are rich in all sorts of formations and some areas are creatively lit. But despite that, photographing the cave is very difficult, since you’re not allowed to use flash or a tripod.

During any given time, there can be a maximum of 500 visitors. Even though it seems a high number, you don’t really notice it. The place is calm and you’re more likely to hear the water running or dripping, than people talking.

If you prefer, you can buy your tickets to Postojna Caves  directly from their website .

HOW TO GO FROM LJUBLJANA TO POSTOJNA CAVES

Postonja Caves, located in the town of Postojna, is 53km from the capital Ljubljana and 58km from the Slovenian coast . Unlike most parts of Slovenia, there are good public transport options to visit the country’s most popular tourist destination. Here’s how to go from Ljubljana to Postojna Caves:

Bus: There are buses from Ljubljana to Postojna every hour, roughly. In the evening they are more sparse. At the moment, the first bus leaves Ljubljana at 5:30am and the last one leaves Postojna at 9pm. The journey takes anything from 45 minutes to one hour. The exact bus schedule can be found here .

Train:  Trains to Postojna also run on an hourly basis from Ljubljana. They are slightly more frequent in early hours and the first train departs the Slovenian capital at 4:30am and the trip also takes around one hour. An adult ticket costs €5.80 one way. Click here for the actual train schedule .

What about you, what did you think about Postojna Caves? Have you ever visited similar caves? Tell us in the comments!

Pedro has travelled to almost 120 countries and has made his nest in London. He has also lived in Spain, Australia, the US, Georgia and Turkey. A former hotel management professional, he loves exploring local cultures, is now learning his 8th language and has a soft spot for the Middle East and the CIS countries.

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How to reach us.

The Postojna Cave Park is located near the town of Postojna and is easily accessible by any means of transport.

By car you can reach the Postojna Cave Park via the A1 motorway from Ljubljana, Koper or Trieste (Postojna motorway exit No. 41, which is two km from the Park). Postojna is almost the same distance from Ljubljana, Portorož, Rijeka and Trieste. The journey to Postojna from Rijeka or Ljubljana takes less than an hour, from Venice and Zagreb about two hours and from Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest, Dubrovnik or Belgrade only a few hours.

Arriving by train, you get directly to the town of Postojna, from where you can take an approximately 25-minute walk to the Postojna Cave Park. Postojna is on the Vienna-Venice railway line with connections to Zagreb, Salzburg, Rijeka and Koper. Check the timetable. .

Bus : More intercity bus connections are available via the Postojna bus station in the town centre, including hourly buses from Ljubljana to Postojna.

A local bus runs between Postojna Railway Station, Postojna Bus Station and Postojna Cave Park.

The closest airports are in Slovenia's capital Ljubljana, in Italy (Trieste, Venice and Milan) and Croatia (Zagreb, Rijeka and Pula).

The Predjama Castle is about nine kilometres from the entrance to Postojna Cave.  Visitors with tickets to Postojna Cave and the Predjama Castle can use the shuttle service between the Postojna Cave Park entrance and the Predjama Castle, which is available part of the year. Taxi rides can be arranged at the ticket office.

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TRAVELSLOVENIA.ORG – All You Need To Know To Visit Slovenia

All you need to know to visit slovenia.

Slovenia is a small country in Central Europe with an extremely diverse and interesting landscape including high Alpine peaks, thick forests, bucolic green countryside, and a short but extremely picturesque stretch of coastline on the Adriatic.

Introducing Slovenia

Slovenia is situated on the south of central Europe and shares borders with Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary. Nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, picturesque Slovenia is blessed with spectacular mountains and an Adriatic coastline. You can have one eye on the Adriatic Sea, then look in the other direction and be surrounded by hills and mountains of the Slovenian Alps. Distances between places in Slovenia are really short and within a single day you can visit the Slovenian coast and experience the Mediterranean climate or visit the mountainous region of Gorenjska and experience the Alpine and continental climate. The changing landscape is constantly surprising, and from the top of the highest Slovenian mountain Triglav (2,864 m) you can see coastline of Adriatic Sea if weather is nice. And that’s exactly the reason why visiting Slovenia can be a great choice for both, summer or winter holidays, with great winter sports architecture and remarkable mountains and, at the same time, the position on the coast of the sea.

This proximity of opposites and contrasts is a hallmark of Slovenia, which boasts many natural attractions located all over the country in very different habitats. The picturesque Mediterranean towns on the Adriatic coast, the pure and intact nature in the idyllic Triglav National Park in Slovenian Alps, the most beautiful glacial lakes Bled and Bohinj, the mysterious Karst region with native Lipizzaner horses and one of the most significant cave systems in the world, the beautiful wine growing regions of Primorska and Posavje and the small but charming capital Ljubljana with its cobbled streets, beautiful baroque architecture and medieval castle dominating the city. The fact that the third of the country is part of European Network Natura 2000 protected areas, gives you an insight in how beautiful Slovenia really is.

Slovenia is situated at the historical and geographical crossroads of western, northern and southern Europe, so it is not a surprise that it’s well connected to the rest of the continent in all directions, and by all means of transport. It’s just a few hours travel from Venice or Vienna. Slovenia is easy to reach from neighbouring countries (Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary), with good road and rail links, and daily flights from numerous European cities. As a maritime nation, Slovenia can also be reached by sea. Slovenia gained independence in 1990 and is an EU member and in the Eurozone with the currency of Euro. Time is CET (same as western Europe). The official language is Slovene (from the group of Slav languages), though English is spoken throughout major cities and tourist destinations and many Slovenians also speak German and Italian.

If we need to describe Slovenia in just one word, it would be the one that people often use in travel writing: beautiful, extraordinary, amazing, charming, lovely. Small, but so extremely interesting. Slovenian Tourism board advertises the country with the slogan ‘I feel sLOVEnia’. And the ones who have opportunity to visit Slovenia, find out that love is truly the main feeling you can get on the streets throughout major cities and tourist sites across the country. Slovenia is also considered one of the safest countries in Europe. Theft and violence are extremely rare. Wherever you are, even late at night in the cities, you can have no cause for concern.

Find Out Why Slovenia Should Be Your Next Destination To Visit In Europe

Slovenia is not necessarily a destination that’s on the top of everyone’s list of places to visit in Europe. But it wouldn’t be revolutionary if we told you that the fame of a place doesn’t guarantee the quality of your experience there, and vice versa. Places not included on lists of top recommended destinations in the world, can create some incredible travel memories. And that is exactly the case with Slovenia, a tiny, beautiful country sandwiched between Italy, Austria and Croatia in the very heart of Europe.

Slovenia pictures

Slovenia is often overlooked by travelers in favour of its more well-known neighbours like Italy, Austria, and Croatia, so please share this page on social media to help spread the word.

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53 thoughts on “all you need to know to visit slovenia”.

Wasn’t on mine until I went. Absolutely blew me away! Yes, the scenery is spectacular- but then you have the food, wines, history, and the people! oh, they were so wonderful. Warm, friendly and helpful. Do it now while there’s virtually no tourists crowding every nook and cranny.

Very nice love it all.

Dear Sudhir

Idrija, Postojna, Logatec, Vrhnika are our closest and most popular destinations. In addition to accommodation at Lookout Resort, we also offer our guests guided tours of tourist attractions. The most popular are individual guided tours for 2 to 3 people with e-mountain bikes. So you can effortlessly discover and enjoy the most beautiful corners of our country with us. You can find more about us on FB >>> https://www.facebook.com/lookout.resort

Best regards, Leopold & Maria

I’m from India and these fabulous photos have inspired me so much that I want visit Slovenia and cover all the wonderful places whose Fall photos you have posted. Can you, or someone who reads this, help me form a travel plan for visiting them and maybe a few more places as time isn’t a constraint. Can I cover all the Fall destinations by using Public Transportation ? Thank you very much and best regards !

Slovenia is absolutely amazing. Been to Bohinj, Bled, Triglav National Park and surroundings, plus the karst and Piran. What a lovely country!

Such a beautiful country. Some day, I’m going to come and see all of these sights!

Seem a very nice destination I would really like to discover it

I hope to visit Slovenia in May of 2022, this is on my list!

Perfect 🥰🥰🥰, can’t wait to see and feel Slovenia again 🥰

Totally incredible country…try to visit every year to see friends and family and enjoy the best cuisine ever 😎

where do i apply for a visa?

Drove UN aid trucks through Slovenia on the way to Bosnia Kosovo etc years ago….. would love to go back there in our campervan…Slovenia♥️ is one of the most beautiful countries in all Europe!

It’s a few years since we visited Slovenia. Had hoped to return this year, maybe next year.

Due to corona situation we had to cancel our June trip and we have to wait till next year again. I feel very dissapointed cause we go to Slovenia every year and it’s like our second home, So i kinda feel homesick.

I have friends in Slovenia and went skiing in Maribor 2018….OMW!! Slovenia was beautiful in the winter, and have heard of how beautiful it is in the Summer time…but never realised it was as breathtaking as these photos show!!! Gosh! 🙈😊👌 Definately a must visit in the summer time. (Am from SA)

Slovenia is the most beautiful country in the world. Not up for debate.

Beautiful country with amazing people. ❤️

Such a beautiful country and its people are so friendly as well. Well worth the visit

I know you think you are smart, blocking people from copy+paste operations, but you also stop people from looking things up online with a simple select + search to get maps and other information they want So your site is wasted bandwidth.

Slovenia ranks among the very best trips we have taken!

I loved my time in Slovenia and would go back in a heartbeat

We’re planning a trip to Slovenia for 2021. I can’t believe how beautiful this country looks!!!!

I have a Cinderella-inspired contemporary screenplay that could be filmed here. Any producers interested?

Really looking forward to seeing the beauty of Slovenia

The country is beautiful, and the people are among the nicest I’ve met in 42 countries and territories.

I visited Piran last week and wish we could have stayed longer. There is a sculpture in Tartini square I am particularly taken with — a man reaching into his hollow chest. Does anyone know the artist and name of the sculpture? It is beautiful.

The statue represents Giuseppe Tartini, famous composer and violinist born in Piran. The sculpture was made by Venetian sculptor Antonio dal Zotta.

Giuseppe Tartini, Tartini square Piran – SLO

I am very keen to get to Slovenia and these photos are making me jealous.

We just loved visiting Slovenia! So many wonderful things to do and see.

Through the scenic beauty of Slovenia, you get to realize what a wonderfully beautiful world we live in!

Slovenia looks pretty! Definitely one for a future trip.

Slovenia has never been on my list. Looks like it’s time for me to reconsider!

I’ve loved looking at these Slovenia pictures. It makes me want to go there even more.

Excuse me while I just go try and find a way to book a ticket to Slovenia. These are beautiful photos and it makes me want to visit all that much more!

Airport Joze Pucnik Ljubljana. Welcome

Love love LOVE this website! All the more excited to visit Slovenia now!

What beautiful photos! Very inspiring! I’ve always wanted to go to Slovenia and your website just made me want to go 10 times more! Stunning!

Incredible pictures! I miss Slovenia so much it truly is paradise on Earth, I hope to be back soon!

WOW, these photos are spectacular! Slovenia seems like such insanely beautifully enchanting paradise.

Slovenia never left my bucket list. So inspired to go there soon!

Slovenia has always been on my bucket list! So much beauty!

Great pictures. I haven’t been to Slovenia for years, and miss it much!

Oh wow! I haven’t been to Slovenia, but it sounds like I need to go! I’ve heard incredible things about Ljubljana and Piran.

Mission accomplished, you’ve made me want to travel to Slovenia!

I love U all 🙂

Dvakratno UNESCO Idrijo ste pa kar preskočili? 🙂

wow just a beautiful. place hope to visit soon..

Last summers I had the best of vacations in Slovenia, I intend to visit this beautiful Place again, Once I get married.

The Slovenes are friendly and welcoming, many are English-speaking but do try a little of their language – Doberdan (hello) and Hvala (thank you) go a long way!

dobar dan is good day NOT hello!/ thanks.

people use it as a hello greeting

I LOVE sLOVEnia. Everyone seems really friendly in Slovenia – the only country with LOVE in its name!

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