• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to footer

ZigZagonEarth

Plan unforgettable road trips!

  • FRANCE
    • CORSICA
    • NORMANDY
    • PARIS
  • EUROPE
    • ANDALUCIA
    • CANARY ISLANDS
    • CRETE
    • ICELAND
    • ICELAND WINTER
    • MADEIRA
    • MALLORCA
    • PORTUGAL
    • SANTORINI
    • SCOTLAND
    • SLOVENIA
  • REST OF WORLD
    • NEW ZEALAND
    • OMAN
  • TIPS
  • EBOOKS
  • SHOP
  • ABOUT

15 Best Slovenia Castles and Monasteries (with photos)

Last updated on August 12, 2022 by Claire / this article contains affiliate links (Info)

The Slovenia Castles... lots of charm and often built in the middle of beautiful scenery!  
Here is an introduction to some of the best castles in Slovenia (and Castle-Monasteries) with map and photos.

Castles in Slovenia Castles - Slovenia Travel Guide

Table Of Contents
Best Castles in Slovenia - List & Map
1 - Ljubljana Castle
2 - Lake Bled Castle
3 - Predjama Castle
4 - Celje Castle
5 - Skofja Loka Castle
6 - Idrija Castle (Gewerkenegg)
7 - Zuzemberk Castle
8 - Bogensperk Castle
9 - Otocec Castle
10 - Olimje Monastery
11 - Kozjansko / Podsreda Castle
12 - Zice Monastery
13 - Ptuj Castle
14 - Bistra Castle
15 - Dobrovo Castle
Other Slovenian Castles

// In this article, no ads, no sponsored posts. Just some affiliate links.
// If you purchase through them, I get a commission at no extra cost to you (Disclosure).


Best Castles in Slovenia - List & Map

How many castles in Slovenia?

Slovenia is quite famous for being fairy-tale like with castles and mansions almost at every corner.
Several websites are indicating that they are more than 500 (including the mansions). I am not sure where they got that number from, but there are many for sure!
They don't look like the huge French Loire Castles but they all have a lot of charm and are often located in very scenic spots.

My selection - 6 Best Castles in Slovenia

If I have to pick, I think the best castles in Slovenia are:

Best castles in Slovenia

3 Best Castles in Slovenia

  1. Celje Castle - for its shape, its respectful restoration and the fantastic surrounding views over the city, the river and towards the mountains
  2. Lake Bled Castle - for the views of Lake Bled and the surrounding mountains
  3. Predjama Castle - For the unique visit within the cave and to learn how they used to live in such circumstances
  4. Skofja Loka Castle - for the great location and interesting museum
  5. Ljubljana Castle - because it is Ljubljana and for the fun Puppets Museum
  6. Ptuj Castle - For the views over the city and the museums

We will see all of them in more details in the article below.

Best Slovenian Castles - Map

Below is a map to help you get oriented:

best castles in Slovenia Map

Best castles in Slovenia - Map

Planning your trip to the Slovenian Castles

You can find all those amazing castles with access/planning info, GPS coordinates, Maps etc. in my Travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Slovenia road trip:

Plan your dream road trip around Slovenia!

small Slovenia ebook cover

Plan your perfect trip to Slovenia with:

  • 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
  • 100+ selected locations so you don't miss the most beautiful places
  • GPS + info to make the most of your time
  • 190+ original photos to get inspired

LEARN MORE

Slovenia Castles in Video - Virtual tour

Below is a short video to give you a snapshot of the monasteries and castles in Slovenia to add to your Slovenia itinerary.
Photos of each location are shared in the next sections.

I am now introducing 15 Castles and Monasteries in no particular order.


1 - Ljubljana Castle

Slovenia Castle - Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle

Let's start with the capital city. Overlooking the charming Ljubljana is a medieval fortress dominating the skyline. It is considered a must-see in Ljubljana.

It has been heavily restored and houses several small museums.
It is not the one with the best atmosphere but the views from the top of the tower are amazing with the roofs of the old towns and the Julian Alps in the distance.

  • Built in... Probably first build in the 11th century, but the majority of the current buildings date back to the 16th and 17th century
  • Atmosphere... Very touristy, too many modern buildings but splendid views from the top of the Tower
  • Location... Access via hiking path or funicular from Ljubljana Old Town
  • Visiting... Visiting is possible with different prices depending on the access you want. I recommend taking the ticket with access to the Tower (if you are able to climb a lot of stairs) - And if you want to learn more as you visit, consider booking a Ljubljana Walking tour
  • Check out the best rated accommodations in Ljubljana
Slovenia Castle - Ljubljana Castle 2

2 - Lake Bled Castle

Slovenia Castle - Lake Bled Castle

Lake Bled Castle

Another very famous castle is the one overlooking Lake Bled. It is considered as the oldest castle in Slovenia.
Built on a precipice above the lake, you can enjoy it from the opposite shore or climb up there to enjoy the views.

  • Built in... First mentioned in 1011, it is considered to be the oldest in Slovenia. It was modified up until the 17th century.
  • Atmosphere... Very Touristy - not much to do inside, very small museum and small chapel. But just sitting to admire the views is fantastic!
  • Location... at Lake Bled
  • Visiting... Open to the public - Access by walking a steep path or parking at the top (for a fee)
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Bled Castle: 45min Drive
    or join a day tour from Ljubljana to Lake Bled which includes the Castle and the magnificent Lake Bohinj - Check out the program
  • Check out the best rated accommodations in Bled
Slovenia Castle - Lake Bled Castle 2

See more photos in my article dedicated to the Castle of Bled.


3 - Predjama Castle

Slovenia Castle - Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle

Predjama is the most fascinating castle in Slovenia. Located in the region of the famous Karst caves of Postojna and Skojcan, the castle has been built inside a cave mouth on a tall cliff.
It is amazing that we can still visit it today!

  • Built in... First mentioned in year 1274, second version of the castle (after destruction) built in the 16th century
  • Atmosphere... Great! Quite touristy but the labyrinth of rooms and stairs is quite an experience. Predjama Castle Tours include an audio guide to better understand how people used to live in such a unique fortress
  • Location... West of Postojna, a short drive South of Ljubljana
  • Visiting... Open to the public - Self-tour with an audio guide - Combined tickets with Postojna Cave available
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Predjama Castle: 1h20 drive
    or pre-book transportation and entrance ticket with a private tour to both Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle - Check out program and price
  • Check out the best rated accommodations in Postojna
Slovenia Castle - Predjama Castle 2

See more photos in my article dedicated to the Predjama Cave Castle.


4 - Celje Castle

Slovenia Castle - Celje Castle

Celje Castle

The Celje Castle is the largest medieval fortress in Slovenia. Lots of love stories and power struggles are part of the history of the castle. But the best parts are the impressive views from all around the walls and from the top of Frederick's tower.

  • Built in... First mentioned during the 12th century - it used to be the home of the Count of Celje and one of the most powerful fortresses in the region
  • Atmosphere... Excellent despite being in ruins - The restoration work here is one of the best in Slovenia, so the atmosphere is really good. The views are helping 
  • Location... in the 3rd Slovenia Town: Celje
  • Visiting... Open to visitors, parking near the entrance gate - Self exploration
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Celje Castle: 1h drive
  • Check out the best rated accommodations in Celje
Slovenia Castle - Celje Castle 2

See more photos in my article dedicated to the Celje Castle and town.


Need to rent a car in Slovenia?

Renting a car Slovenia tips

See my 36 practical tips
to choose the best car to rent
from Ljubljana
for the roads in Slovenia
and find the best deals

+ read more

or directly see the best deals on my favorite platform


5 - Skofja Loka Castle

Slovenia Castle - Skofja Loka Castle

Skofja Loka Castle

Skofja Loka is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Slovenia. Like in many others, a castle is located on the hill to protect it. Here the castle has been turned into one of the best museums in Slovenia (even though there are not many visitors)

  • Built in... The Original castle was built in 1202 but destroyed by an earthquake in 1511. Restoration took place the following century
  • Atmosphere... Fantastic museum in the castle with lots to see. Very quiet area with a nice park.
  • Location... Above the town of Skofja Loka - walk from the center or drive on a single-lane road to the carpark
  • Visiting... Open to the public - Free access to the park - Self tour of the castle turned into a museum covering a lot of subjects, especially daily life in the region and old tools
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Skofja Loka: 40min drive
  • Best view is from across the river - GPS coordinates in my eBook
  • Check out the best rated accommodations in Skofja Loka
Slovenia Castle - Skofja Loka Castle 2

See more photos in my article dedicated to Skofja Loka


6 - Idrija Castle (Gewerkenegg)

Slovenia Castle - Idrija Castle

Idrija Castle

Slovenia has only 2 cultural Unesco Sites and Idrija is one of them. This is due to its history of mercury mining. The castle, known as Gewerkenegg Castle, has now been transformed into a museum where you can learn about life in Idrija and the local activities of Mercury mining and Lace.

  • Built in... 16th century to be the administrative building of the mines
  • Atmosphere... Great internal square where frescoes have been painted similar to the original partial piece found in one corner - Great museum
  • Location... in the town of Idrija - South West of Ljubljana, off the beaten track
  • Visiting... Open to the public - free access to the square - self tour of the castle with a booklet
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Idrija: 1h15
    or join a day tour from Ljubljana that will allow you to visit both the castle and a mercury mine - check out the program
  • Check out the best rated accommodations in Idrija
Slovenia Castle - Idrija Castle 2

7 - Zuzemberk Castle

Slovenia Castle - Zuzemberk Castle

Zuzemberk Castle

If you are driving in the area, Zuzemberk castle deserves a quick stop to admire its position and shape over river Krka

  • Built in... Originally built in the 13th century - currently from the 16th 
  • Atmosphere... Not much to see inside, however very picturesque from the river shore opposite the castle
  • Location... in the town of Zuzemberk in the Krka Valley, South east of Ljubljana
  • Visiting... Free entrance 
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Žužemberk Castle: 45 min drive
Slovenia Castle - Zuzemberk Castle 1

8 - Bogensperk Castle

Slovenia Castle - Bogensperk Castle

Bogensperk Castle

Thanks to one of its famous owners, the Bogensperk Caste used to be a cultural and science center in the 17th century. Today it houses a small museum and is a favorite for weddings!

  • Built in... Beginning of 16th century, Renaissance style
  • Atmosphere... Cute and charming with a beautiful park
  • Location... Near Smartno pri Litji, East of Ljubljana
  • Visiting... Short visit with small museum 
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Bogensperk Castle: 15min drive
Slovenia Castle - Bogensperk Castle 2

9 - Otocec Castle

Slovenia Castle - Ototec Castle

Otocec Castle

Otocec is the only Slovenian Castle surrounded by water. It is built on a small island on the Krka River.

  • Built in... First mentioned in the 13th century, it has been modified a lot over the years
  • Atmosphere... Enchanting place for a short stop and walk
  • Location... Just East of Novo Mesto, in the Krka Valley
  • Visiting... You cannot visit the inside since it is now a hotel, but you can enjoy a peaceful stroll on the grounds and on the river shore!
  • Extra... If you enjoy the castle life, know that you can stay at the hotel inside the castle! Check out photos and availabilities
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Otocec Castle: 50min drive
Slovenia Castle - Ototec Castle 2

10 - Olimje Monastery

Slovenia Castle - Olimje Monastery

Olimje Monastery

Olimje is probably one of the most recognizable buildings in Slovenia with its blue-grey color and geometric shapes. It is actually a castle-Monastery still occupied by monks today. It is famous for its old pharmacy room.

  • Built in... First mentioned in the 13th century, the current building is mostly from the 16th
  • Atmosphere... There is not that much to see but the building is very photogenic. Sadly, none of the old pharmacy furniture remains. Impressive black marble in the church
  • Location... near the town of Podcertrtek
  • Visiting... Free entrance to the grounds and inside the pharmacy
  • Getting there... Ptuj to Olimje Castle: 1h10 drive
Slovenia Castle - Olimje Monastery 2

Looking for the best place to stay in Slovenia?

Where to stay in Slovenia accommodations 2

See my selection of the 15 best areas in Portugal to enjoy attractions, culture, history...
+ fantastic accommodation options

+ read more

11 - Kozjansko / Podsreda Castle

Slovenia Castle - Kozjanko Castle

Podsreda Castle

Off the beaten track in the Kozjansko Park, the Romanesque fortress offers magnificent views of the region. And a viewpoint a little bit further down the road, allows you to take in the shape of the castle

  • Built in... 12th century
  • Atmosphere... Off the beaten track, surrounded by nature and famous for its chandeliers. A little bit of a travel back in time
  • Location... East of Novo Mesto near the border with Croatia
  • Visiting... Open to visitors (closed on Mondays) - Free access to viewpoints, nice drive
  • Getting there... Ptuj to Podsreda Castle: 1h30 drive
Slovenia Castle - Kozjanko Castle 2

12 - Zice Monastery

ZIce Monastery

Zice Monastery

If you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a zen place, I recommend a visit to the Zice Monastery (a.k.a. Rabbit Monastery).

  • Built in...  Monastery founded in the 12th century
  • Atmosphere... Such a peaceful place surrounded by trees! Nothing like any other place I visited in Slovenia
  • Location... East of Celje
  • Visiting... Open to the public with an audio guide
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Zice charterhouse: 1h drive
ZIce Monastery 2

One of my favorite places in Slovenia off the beaten path.


13 - Ptuj Castle

Castle in Slovenia - Ptuj Castle

Ptuj Castle

Ptuj is the oldest recorded city in Slovenia. Its castle overlooking the city and river is not a masterpiece of architecture, but it houses a famous regional museum.

  • Built in... Originally built in the 12th century
  • Atmosphere... Great views over the city roofs from the grounds
  • Location... in Ptuj, East Slovenia
  • Visiting... Free access to the grounds 
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Ptuj: 1h20 drive
    or join a tour from Ljubljana that takes you to both Maribor and Ptuj, as well as a village in the wine country - Check out program and price
  • Check out the best rated accommodations in Ptuj
Castle in Slovenia - Ptuj Castle 2

See more photos in my article dedicated to Ptuj Castle and Town.


And keep track of your own trip!

Slovenia road trip Journal

14 - Bistra Castle

Castle in Slovenia - Bistra Castle

Bistra Castle

Home to one of the most impressive museums in Slovenia, Bistra castle which also was a monastery, now combines history with fun and learning. 

  • Built in... Originally built in the 13th century
  • Atmosphere... Huge place with many buildings - Fantastic museum with a lot of old cars, equipment and tools - covering a lot of subjects and with fun activities for kids.
  • Location... in Bistra, South of Ljubljana
  • Visiting... Easy access to the castle and museum
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Bistra Castle: 40min drive
Castle in Slovenia - Bistra Castle 2

15 - Dobrovo Castle

Castle in Slovenia - Dobrovo Castle

Dobrovo Castle

Off the beaten track, in the beautiful wine region of Brda visited mostly by Slovenians and Italians. Dobrovo is the main town with a square castle protecting it.

  • Built in... 17th century
  • Atmosphere... Nice square castle with small museum
  • Location... in Dobrovo, close to the South Border with Italy
  • Visiting... Open to the public
  • Getting there... Ljubljana to Dobrovo Castle: 1h30 drive via Italy
  • Check out the best rated accommodations in Smartno
Castle in Slovenia - Dobrovo Castle 2

Learn more in my article about the Dorbovo Castle and the Brda region


Other Slovenian Castles

Other Castles in Slovenia to consider during your trip:

  • Senznik Castle - Famous for its cute bridge over the water, it is a square mansion housing a museum
  • Kamnik Castle - Kamnik had 2 castles. They are both in ruins. However, they are worth a stop for the fantastic views of the region.
  • Maribor Castle - In the center of Maribor, 2nd Town in Slovenia, it is now a museum but it is not architecturally interesting (more on the Maribor article)
  • Sevnica Castle - in a scenic location
Kamnik Castle Slovenia

View from Ruins of Small Castle in Kamnik


Want to see more of the best Slovenia has to offer?

  • Best things to do in Slovenia - read article
  • Most beautiful landscapes in Slovenia - read article
  • Best waterfalls in Slovenia - read article
  • Best off the beaten path attractions in Slovenia - read article
  • Best cities and towns in Slovenia - read article

Planning a trip to Slovenia? 

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

Be overwhelmed by the beauty, not the planning!

small Slovenia ebook cover

Plan your perfect trip to Slovenia with:

  • 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
  • 100+ selected locations so you don't miss the most beautiful places
  • GPS + info to make the most of your time
  • 190+ original photos to get inspired

LEARN MORE

And keep track of your own trip!

Slovenia road trip Journal

PREVIOUS: 

BEST THINGS TO DO IN SLOVENIA

NEXT: 

Best Slovenia Waterfalls

Slovenia Travel Guide - Slovenia Tourism

Inspired? Share it on your favorite platform!

Pin Castles in Slovenia Castles - Slovenia Travel Guide

Footer

CONTACT ME

Search

Follow ZigZag on Facebook

Follow ZigZag on Pinterest

Website in French: ZigZagvoyages.fr

Website in German: ZigZagreisen.de

Website in Spanish: ZigZagviajes.com

And discover the French regions:

Normandielovers.fr

LoireLovers.fr

CorsicaLovers.fr

 

Privacy / Terms of Use / Disclosure Policies / Refund policy

Become an affiliate for the ZigZag road trip guides

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. ZigZagOnEarth.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Amazon.uk and Amazon.ca

Copyright © 2023 ZigZag On Earth · Log in

If you continue browsing this site you agree with the use of cookies in this website.OkRead more