Slovenia was a wonderful surprise! Known for its stunning natural landscapes, it is often regarded as an ideal adventure destination. But is it suitable for travelers with disabilities? While many of Slovenia’s natural attractions are not yet accessible — something I believe will change — we spent four fun days exploring some of the accessible sites, and many more are waiting for our next visit.
Getting there
The easiest way is to fly into Ljubljana airport, located only a 40-minute drive from the city center. Another option is to arrive by train or car from a neighboring country, such as Italy, Austria, or Croatia.
Our road trip began in Milan, continued through the stunning Dolomites, and continued into Slovenia.
Traveling in Slovenia
I prefer public transport when traveling; it’s so much easier for me as a wheelchair user. However, when I researched Slovenia’s accessibility, I learned that there is still much to be done to improve its public transportation system for mobility aid users.
Traveling by local trains is possible, and you’ll get a complimentary ticket for your companion. However, not all stations are wheelchair-accessible, and assistance must be booked 24 hours in advance, which forces you to stick to a very strict itinerary. If you decide to attempt the train option, here is the website with all the necessary information.
City buses are also wheelchair-accessible, but I couldn’t find any specific details on inter-city buses. Since Slovenia is relatively small and easy to navigate by car, and we wanted to visit sites that are harder or impossible to reach via accessible public transport, we decided to keep our car.
We chose Ljubljana as our base for a 4-day trip to Slovenia, conveniently located in the middle of the country.
Ljubljana
Ljubljana is the capital and the largest city of Slovenia. Its charming Old Town is primarily pedestrian-oriented and full of activity. Countless restaurants and bars have accessible seating areas and stunning views along the Ljibljanica River. Local artisans sell their creations and produce on the narrow, cobbled streets. Art galleries and souvenir shops can be found everywhere, and the atmosphere is so fun!
Rolling around Ljubljana was easy. Although many streets are lined with cobblestones, they are relatively smooth, and ramps incorporated into the city’s design allow mobility aid users and strollers easy access. Regarding building and store entrances, it’s 50/50; be prepared to wait outside.
Ljubljana Central Market
Markets, especially food markets, are my preferred cultural experience when traveling to a new country. Ljubljana’s market didn’t disappoint.
Locally grown fruits and veggies, flowers and plants, souvenirs and clothes, unique to Slovenia products like bear salami, local wines, and truffles, and the delicious gourmet food market called “Open Kitchen.”
Ljubljana Central Market is open daily except on Sundays, and for Open Kitchen dates, consult this website.
Right next to the market, you’ll find an accessible, europe-key-operated restroom. If you don’t have one, they’ll buzz you in once they see you’re a wheelchair user.
Ljubljana Castle
Standing above Old Town on Castle Hill, this medieval fortress is a key landmark of Ljubljana and Slovenia. Dating back to the 11th century, the Castle was used for many different purposes — defense, prison, the seat of lords, and, today, a major cultural venue.
The legend of the Ljubljana dragon states that it lived under the Castle until knight George came to the city and defeated the dragon.
We took the wheelchair-accessible funicular near the Central Market to visit the Castle. This modern, glass-enclosed funicular offers spectacular views of Ljubljana and the ruins of a medieval defensive wall. Admission to the funicular and the Castle is free for visitors with disabilities and one companion when a valid disability ID is presented; otherwise, a regular adult ticket costs $16.
Once at the top, the grounds are partially accessible. Some paths are covered in cobblestones, many ramps are incorporated into the design to allow easy access, and there’s a wheelchair-accessible restroom. Some museums and restaurants are wheelchair accessible, but many are not. You can find all the information on what’s accessible at the official Ljubljana Castle website. The Castle also offers guided tours for groups of disabled visitors at a 50% discount.
The gorgeous town views from the funicular and the Castle are worth a visit. If you want to grab a bite and enjoy a glass (or a bottle) of good local wine, stop at Graiska Vinoteka. Although the main restaurant is located in the cellar (accessible only by stairs), the top floor of the wine bar is step-free, and the food is fresh and delicious. Note that the tables are high bar tables, but maybe a regular-height table can be arranged if reserved in advance.
Ljubljana Bridges
The long Ljublanica River between the Old Town and the more modern neighborhoods is adorned with bridges.
One is “The Butcher’s Bridge,” Ljubljana’s love bridge with many colorful locks immortalizing thousands of love stories. A weird name for a love bridge? It’s because it’s built on the spot where butchers used to be. Being one of the newer bridges, it’s accessible by ramps on both sides. What makes it even weirder is the disconnect between the lovers’ locks and scary statues of characters from Greek mythology.
Another famous bridge is “The Dragon Bridge.“ The bridge has four dragon statues and, according to the legend, stands where Jason slays the dragon. Since then, the dragon has become the symbol of Ljubljana and Slovenia, and you’ll encounter it everywhere.
“The Triple Bridge“ is another beautiful bridge in the area or a group of three bridges crossing the river. All are pedestrian and covered by cobblestone.
As you make your way along the river, you’ll encounter many more bridges. Most are accessible for wheelchair users.
Accessible accommodation suggestion
We stayed at the 4-star City Hotel Ljubljana and absolutely loved our experience. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the city center, making it perfect for exploring the Old Town, shopping, or enjoying dinner after a day trip outside of Ljubljana. Additionally, the hotel offers a parking garage for a daily fee, but be sure to make a reservation in advance.
The accessible room is spacious, with a fully equipped accessible bathroom: floating sink, grab bars, roll-in shower with a shower chair, tilted mirror above the sink, and plenty of room. The room also has a second, regular bathroom, which allows for more privacy and comfort. The only thing that might be difficult for those who transfer independently is the height of the beds; too high.
Vogel Cable Car and Lake Bohinj
Lake Bohinj is in the Julian Alps and offers a peaceful escape into nature. It is just a 1.5-hour drive from Ljubljana. The lake is surrounded by green forests and tall mountains, making it a great place for outdoor activities. Some of these activities are accessible for travelers with disabilities.
First, hop on the Vogel Cable Car, which takes you to the Vogel Ski Resort, perched nearly 1,800 meters above sea level. The cable car operates daily from May to October. It offers a disability discount, accessible parking and restrooms, and unforgettable panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains from the viewing platform. Unfortunately, the resort’s grounds aren’t wheelchair-accessible unless you have an all-terrain wheelchair, but I managed to explore a little.
To explore the lake closer, you can park at one of the main parking areas near the Church of St. John, the Tourist Information Center, or lenext to Restaurant Kramar (all paid parking lots). The restaurant is a great spot to enjoy the views while sipping a drink. One of the outside sitting areas has step-free access.
My recommendation is to park in the Kramar Restaurant parking lot. From there, a paved path will lead you toward the Church of St. John and an old bridge. Alternatively, a gravel path will take you along the lake into part of Triglav National Park. Follow the gravel path for a short distance; the views are incredible. You can get close to the water at several spots and even take a dip if you’re not afraid of freezing water and have someone to help you. The best part is that there are hardly any people around.
Lake Bled
On your drive from Ljubljana to Lake Bohinj, you’ll pass through the small town of Bled and along its shores. Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most iconic landscapes, featuring a small island in the center with the Assumption of Maria Church. However, it is also quite touristy.
You can take a water taxi or rent a rowboat to visit the island and the church. Neither option is wheelchair-accessible, and you will need assistance to get into the boat.
The path around the lake is smooth and easy to navigate, offering truly breathtaking views, especially at sunset. Many park areas are along the route, and the lake is open for swimming during the summer. However, the beaches are not equipped for guests with disabilities.
If you are considering staying in Bled, I found many spa hotels around the beautiful lake appealing. However, I was disappointed by the accessibility options. While several hotels offered adapted rooms, the spa and pool facilities were not accessible for wheelchair users, which was a significant factor in my decision to stay there.
On the cliff overlooking the lake, you can’t miss Bled Castle. Although the website shows discounted fares for guests with disabilities, the castle isn’t wheelchair-accessible as of 2024.
Pohorje Treetop Walkway on Rogla
The Pohorje Treetop Walk is an accessible attraction that lets visitors explore the forest from above. It is located near Rogla, a ski resort in the Pohorje mountains of northeastern Slovenia.
This wooden walkway is built high above the ground. In some places, it reaches 20 meters (66 feet) tall and stretches for 1,600 meters (about 1 mile). Visitors can walk along the path and enjoy views of the forest canopy, nearby valleys, and the area around Mount Pohorje. At the highest point of the walkway is an observation tower offering great views of the city of Maribor and other landmarks.
The walkway is family-friendly and open to everyone. It has disabled parking, accessible restrooms, and step-free access.
While we visited, the weather was poor, so we couldn’t see the promised views. However, on a clear day, you might spot birds, squirrels, and other forest animals and enjoy beautiful scenery. The area has many hiking trails for hiking enthusiasts.
Arboretum Volčji Potok
If you’re looking for a short nature escape from the city without having to drive too far, Arboretum Volčji Potok is the perfect destination.
Located in the picturesque Kamnik-Savinja Alps, just 25 kilometers from Ljubljana, Arboretum Volčji Potok is one of Slovenia’s most cherished and accessible botanical gardens. Spanning over 85 hectares of beautifully landscaped parkland, this garden is a must-visit for nature lovers, plant enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful nature retreat.
With a rich collection of over 3,000 plant species, Arboretum Volčji Potok showcases an impressive diversity of flora worldwide. Throughout the year, the arboretum hosts seasonal events, plant fairs, and exhibitions, providing opportunities for the public to engage with the world of plants and gardening. It is also a popular venue for outdoor concerts and cultural gatherings.
The park is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities, featuring paved walking paths, benches, resting areas throughout the grounds, a café, accessible parking, and restrooms.
Suggestions for other accessible activities
The following website offers many accessible activities in Slovenia, from urban vacations to nature escapes and thermal spas—make sure to check carefully which experience suits your needs and abilities.
