Postojna Cave travel guide

Postojna Cave, located in Veliki Otok, is a jaw-dropping wonder of Slovenia's natural heritage. Its history can be traced back to the 13th century when it was first mentioned in historical documents.

The cave was opened to the public in the early 19th century, making it one of the oldest tourist caves in the world. In 1872, the cave's railway was built, allowing visitors to explore deeper into the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers.

During World War II, the cave served as a storage facility, but the treasures hidden inside were later discovered and destroyed. Despite this, the Postojna Cave remains a magnificent testament to Slovenia's fascinating geologic past.

The cave is also known for its unique inhabitants - the 'human fish', a rare aquatic salamander found only in the subterranean waters of the region. Today, the cave continues to amaze with its stunning array of stalactites and stalagmites, attracting visitors from all around the world.

Postojna Cave stands out with its extensive karst cave system, stretching over 24 kilometers. Unlike most caves, it allows visitors to explore its underground wonders aboard a special cave train, making it one of the most accessible caves in the world. The cave's interior is adorned with stunning stalagmite and stalactite formations, including the symbolic 'Brilliant,' a 5-meter white limestone stalagmite.

The cave is home to a variety of unique fauna, most notably the olm, often referred to as the 'human fish' due to its skin color. This eyeless amphibian is endemic to the subterranean waters of the Dinaric Karst region. Another fascinating feature is the Concert Hall, a vast cavern with excellent acoustics, frequently used for concerts and other events. Finally, Postojna Cave shares its location with Predjama Castle, a Renaissance fortress built into a cliff, creating a remarkable combination of natural and human-made wonders.

The iconic Postojna Cave, situated at Jamska cesta 30, 6230 Postojna, Slovenia, stands as a must-visit landmark in Veliki Otok. Its location within the vibrant Municipality of Postojna offers visitors a seamless connection to the charming landscapes and rich culture of Slovenia.

More than just a backdrop of stunning scenery, Veliki Otok, as a village, is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and modern conveniences. Its unique blend of history and contemporary charm ensures there’s something for every traveler to enjoy.

Postojna Cave shines in all seasons, each offering unique sights and experiences. Get additional tips and inspiration to make the most of your visit to this village.

Getting to Postojna Cave is possible with a variety of transportation options, but planning ahead is essential to ensure a smooth journey in Veliki Otok, Slovenia.

If you're arriving by air , you'll arrive at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, which is approximately 32.8 miles (52.8 km) from the village center. From there, you can then plan your onward journey with a taxi, shuttle, or private transfer for a direct route to Postojna Cave.

If you're already in Veliki Otok, the journey to Postojna Cave is an adventure in itself. Located 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from central Veliki Otok, you can choose from local buses, taxis, or guided tours to reach it. Postojna Cave is situated at Jamska cesta 30, 6230 Postojna, Slovenia, and is well worth the trip!

Prepare for an unforgettable journey of discovery in Slovenia. With your travel plans set, you're ready to embark on a memorable experience at Postojna Cave.

The best time to explore Postojna Cave, a natural marvel in Veliki Otok, Slovenia, is during the summer months, particularly from June to August, when the weather is warm and inviting. The cave maintains a steady temperature of around 10°C throughout the year, making it a cool retreat during the hot summers. While the cave is open to visitors year-round, summer offers the unique opportunity to witness the fascinating 'baby dragon' (olm) breeding event. In addition, the summer season usually sees fewer crowds, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the cave's astonishing stalactites and stalagmites. If you prefer a quieter period and don't mind the cooler weather, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are also good times to visit. However, do check the local forecasts as heavy rain can sometimes cause temporary closures of the cave. Lastly, bear in mind that the cave tour lasts about an hour and a half; plan your day accordingly to fully enjoy this unforgettable subterranean journey.

As Postojna Cave is located in an area that can be tricky to navigate without proper planning, these packages handle logistics by organizing transportation, accommodations, and activities.

Delve deeper and discover the top travel plans for exploring Postojna Cave in Slovenia.

When preparing for your visit to Postojna Cave, it's essential to find the perfect place to stay. Discover your perfect accommodation near Postojna Cave in this section, with options for all travel types—carefully selected from the biggest selection of hotels and places to stay in Veliki Otok.

Start each day with a breathtaking view, setting the perfect tone for your exploration of Postojna Cave. With round-the-clock customer support, best price guarantees, and top-rated accommodations, you can rest easy knowing you're in good hands.

Whether you’re visiting for a brief stop or planning to spend more time exploring, this attraction adds something special to your trip.

Check out the full list of top attractions in Veliki Otok below to discover even more incredible places to visit.