Slovenia or Slovakia: which is best to visit?

Slovenia is a small country with an enviable geographical position between the majestic Alps and the Mediterranean. Known as miniature Europe, Slovenia has spectacular mountains, lush forests and a small coastline.

For its part, Slovakia has a history closely tied to the fortunes of Central Europe’s kingdoms. The natural parks of the Carpathians are home to some of Europe’s most iconic wildlife: deer, lynx, bears and wolves. Bear in mind that there may be snow in the mountains in spring, and the weather can change quickly, even within a single day.

Julian Alps vs Carpathians

Most of the Julian Alps are included in Triglav National Park, Slovenia, which rises to 2,864 metres. Keen mountain walkers can trek through the finest parts of Triglav National Park in the Slovenian Alps, while those seeking a gentler route can follow easy trails with little elevation gain.

We explore trails and pastures to discover local culture and daily life, based in the beautiful Alpine town of Bled.

Trekking through the Julian Alps – Photo: Slotrips — Trekking in the Julian Alps | Photo: Slotrips

The The Carpathians begin in Slovakia and extend for more than 1500 km across Eastern Europe. Though not particularly high, their vast extent makes them one of Europe’s most important natural areas, home to many endangered species.

From cosy rural accommodation at the foot of the Tatras, we will walk through different protected areas of the Carpathian range.

Slovenian and Slovak cuisine compared

The most popular dishes in Slovenia are prepared with vegetables like cabbages, beans and potatoes and the most commonly used herbs are thyme, tarragon, bay and mint. Slovenian cuisine is characterized by the use of local products and Slovenian dishes feature ingredients typical of each area. Broths, stews and soups are specialities, alongside dishes inspired by Italian cuisine with a local touch.

The Slovak gastronomy is characterised by a wide variety of cheeses, in both desserts and main dishes, alongside potatoes and various cuts of pork. Slovak cuisine is famous for being “rich in calories”.

Soups are served in bread bowls, cheeses feature in many desserts, and the national dish, bryndzové halušky, combines potato dumplings, sheep’s cheese and pork.

Hiking through the natural parks | Photographer Slotrips — Hiking through nature parks | Photo: Slotrips

World Heritage in Slovenia and Slovakia

The Škocjan Caves are one of the main attractions of Slovenia, formed by five kilometres of underground passages, with caves up to 25 metres deep and subterranean waterfalls. The caves have been a World Heritage Site since 1986. Slovenia is also one of the countries safeguarding the heritage of the prehistoric pile-dwelling sites around the Alps.

Slovakia currently has seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites: five cultural and two natural, the latter shared with other European countries. Highlights include the wooden churches on the Slovak side and the the Carpathians' primeval beech forest. Visit to Spisské Podhradie, home to Slovakia’s most important monastery, Spiš Castle, considered the largest medieval fortress in Central Europe (World Heritage).

Natural parks in Slovenia vs Slovakia

In Slovenia, we will visit the interior of Triglav National Park and discover Lake Bohinj and its surroundings: rivers, gorges, typical villages. We will continue to the heart of the Julian Alps until the mountain pass of Vrsic, and finally explore the Soča Valley following the river of the same name, through gorges and waterfalls.

We started our trip by Slovakia at the base of High Tatras National Park with a walk through the Mengusovská Valley and the Štrbské and Popradské Pleso lakes, plus sightseeing in the legendary Spiš region. In Podlesosk, Slovenský raj National Park, is characterised by limestone gorges.

Active routes: Slovenia vs Slovakia.

Slovenia is a country with an enviable position between the Alps and the Mediterranean. Our trekking route reveals the finest trails and hidden corners of the Slovenian Alps and Triglav National Park. From Lake Bohinj, we enter the heart of the Julian Alps through spectacular mountain scenery. We will move on to magical Lake Bled and climb Mount Mangart. Optional visit to the Škocjan caves and Piran.

We suggest a cycling route through Austria, Hungary and Slovakia, an easy self-guided route following the Danube through three cities in three countries: Vienna in Austria, Bratislava in Slovakia and Budapest in Hungary. An excellent introduction to cycling holidays in a memorable setting. Ideal for families or groups of friends, it suits anyone and requires little previous experience.