HOW TO VISIT SLOVENIA'S CAVES
FROM TRIESTE
Trieste’s location near the Slovenian border makes it an ideal base for day trips to some of the most spectacular caves in Europe. Just a short drive away, Slovenia is home to incredible underground landscapes that attract visitors from around the world. Whether you prefer organized tours or independent travel, here’s how to visit Slovenia’s caves from Trieste.
Postojna Cave: The Most Famous Underground Wonderland
The Postojna Cave is Slovenia’s best-known attraction and one of the largest karst cave systems in the world.
The highlight of the visit is a unique electric train ride that takes you deep into the cave before you continue on foot through vast chambers and intricate stalactite formations.
• Distance from Trieste: About 55 km (45 minutes by car)
• How to get there: The easiest option is by car or organized day tour. Some bus connections exist, but schedules are limited.
• Tip: Combine your visit with Predjama Castle, a dramatic fortress built into a cliff just a short drive away.
Are you interested in Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana? Check out Visiting Ljubljana from Trieste: How to Plan a Day Trip.
Škocjan Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
For those who want something more dramatic, the Škocjan Caves offer one of the most breathtaking underground landscapes in Europe. Their massive underground canyon and roaring river create an almost otherworldly experience.
• Distance from Trieste: Only 25 km (about 30 minutes by car)
• How to get there: You can drive, book a guided tour from Trieste, or take a train to the nearby village of Divača, then walk or taxi to the caves.
• Why go: Unlike Postojna, Škocjan focuses on natural beauty rather than infrastructure. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers.
Practical Tips for Visiting
• Bring a light jacket, as cave temperatures stay around 10°C year-round.
• Book tickets in advance during summer and weekends.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces.
• Combine visits: If you have a full day, it’s possible to see both Škocjan and Postojna, but start early.
Visiting Slovenia’s caves from Trieste is one of the most rewarding day trips you can take. In less than an hour, you can explore underground worlds that look like scenes from a fantasy novel. Whether you choose Postojna for its grandeur or Škocjan for its raw beauty, you’ll return to Trieste with unforgettable memories.
You might also like the Giant Cave (Grotta Gigante): A Must-See Near Trieste.