A breathtaking European nation, frequently bypassed by British holidaymakers, is being championed as the continent's "most overlooked" destination, with bargain flights available from the UK for as little as £43.
Why Slovenia is a Traveller's Hidden Paradise
Slovenia, a compact country of just over two million people, is enjoying a significant tourism boom. Official figures show that in 2025, the nation welcomed approximately 7.3 million international tourists for overnight stays, marking a nine per cent increase. The peak month of July alone saw nearly one million visitors arrive to explore its diverse offerings.
YouTube travel creator Paul Taylor, who runs the popular channel Suitcase Monkey, recently embarked on a six-day Slovenian adventure, describing the experience as "packed but peaceful." He has since labelled Slovenia the "best most overlooked country" in Europe, praising its seamless blend of thrilling outdoor activities, rich history, and acclaimed wines.
From Capital Charm to Iconic Landscapes
Paul's journey began in the central and walkable capital, Ljubljana, home to around 300,000 residents. He highlighted the picturesque river walk as a major attraction, noting the city's compact layout is perfect for exploration on foot. The imposing Ljubljana Castle, accessible via a steep walk or a two-minute funicular ride, dominates the skyline. Paul was particularly impressed by a 4D film at the castle that delves into the site's long history.
The traveller also reflected on Slovenia's recent past as part of the former Kingdom of Yugoslavia, noting the country has only existed in its current sovereign form since 1991.
From the capital, Paul and his wife Chiaki travelled to the world-famous Lake Bled, renowned for its ancient church and "iconic" panoramic views. He found magic in simply watching the world go by, especially on the quieter western shore, stating the profound peace and quiet would be a lasting memory.
Underground Wonders and Outdoor Adventures
Beyond its surface beauty, Slovenia boasts incredible subterranean attractions. Paul explored the Postojna Cave, part of the UNESCO-listed Classical Karst region. Visitors can journey on the site's historic underground railway—the world's first—which covers almost 4km of track. The main event, however, is the vast 24km cave system, reaching depths of 120 metres and adorned with intricate stalactites and stalagmites.
For adrenaline seekers, Slovenia's dramatic landscape offers world-class rafting on the stunning Soca River and excellent canyoning opportunities in its mountainous regions.
How to Visit Slovenia from the UK
Reaching this Central European gem from Britain is both easy and affordable. Flights depart from several UK airports including Heathrow, Manchester, Bristol, and Edinburgh. Using flight comparison tools like SkyScanner, savvy travellers can secure tickets from Gatwick for as little as £43, making an exploratory trip to this underestimated destination more accessible than ever.
