Is Postojna Cave Worth Visiting? A Complete Guide
Yes — Postojna Cave Slovenia is worth visiting, particularly if you’re interested in unusual natural attractions, geology and wildlife. The underground train, enormous caverns and chance to see the rare olm make it one of Slovenia’s most unusual experiences. However, it is a major tourist attraction, so there are some things you should know before you go.
The Do Not Go Gently Travel Blog uses affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, I may receive a small commission payment at no extra cost to you.
I recently spent 2 months travelling across the Balkans by train using an Interrail pass. A significant amount of that time spent in Slovenia and Ljubljana. These are the resources I used to plan my trip
Hotels – Booking.com
Tours and Activities – Get Your Guide
Train Bookings – Rail Europe
Amazon Links
Travel Guide – DK Slovenia (Travel Guide)
Travel Guide – Lonely Planet – Western Balkans
Is Postojna Cave Slovenia Worth Visiting?
- You don’t need to be an experienced hiker or caver.
- The underground train is unique in the world.
- The cave chambers are enormous.
- You can see the olm, the legendary baby dragon.
- It is easy to visit from Ljubljana.
- It is accessible for many travellers.
Who might not enjoy it?
- Travellers looking for a wild, undeveloped cave experience.
- People who dislike organised tours.
- Anyone travelling on a very tight budget.
- People visiting in peak summer who dislike crowds.
The last point is worth noting. Summer draws very large crowds to the cave, and even though the tickets are timed and the whole tour is run with military precision, it can get very crowded.
I last visited on a morning in October, and it was still very busy.
But, if you’re drawn by geology, nature, adventure or just seeking something truly different, the Postojna Cave delivers.
Postojna Cave at a Glance
| Location | Postojna, southwestern Slovenia |
| Distance from Ljubljana | Approximately 55 km |
| Cave temperature | Around 10°C year-round |
| Length of visitor route | More than 5 km of the cave system is included in the tour |
| How you explore the cave | Electric cave train followed by a guided walk |
| Length of visit | Approximately 1½ hours |
| What you can see | Huge caverns, stalactites, stalagmites, the Brilliant formation and the olm |
| Best known for | Its underground railway and spectacular karst formations |
| Suitable for older travellers? | Yes, although there is walking involved and the cave is cool throughout the year |
| Can you visit independently? | Yes, although the cave visit itself is a guided tour |
| Nearby attraction | Predjama Castle, around 9 km away |
Postojna Cave Ticket Prices
| Ticket | Adult | Student 16–25 | Child 6–15 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Postojna Cave | €34.90 | €27.80 | €20.70 |
| Postojna Cave + Predjama Castle | €49.90 | €39.90 | €29.90 |
| Postojna Cave + Vivarium | €39.90 | €31.90 | €23.90 |
| Postojna Cave + Predjama Castle + Vivarium | €55.00 | €44.00 | €33.00 |
Are there Senior Discounts at Postojna Cave?
Unfortunately, Postojna Cave does not currently offer a general senior or pensioner discount. Seniors pay the standard adult price of €34.90 for the cave tour.
Discounts are available for some other categories, including students aged 16–25.
Visitors with a qualifying mobility impairment and their companion can receive a 50% discount when appropriate documentation is presented at the ticket office.
Getting there & planning your visit
Where is Postojna Cave in Slovenia?
The cave is located near the town of Postojna, in the region of Inner Carniola. They’re easily reachable by road and rail.
How to get to Postojna Cave by Car
Postojna Cave is easily reached by car. From Ljubljana, Koper or Trieste. Leave at Junction 41 and the cave is signed and 2km away. The journey from Ljubljana takes about an hour. Postojna Cave is also reachable from further away, with Venice being 2 hours, and major European cities like Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest, Dubrovnik or Belgrade only a few hours away.
There is plentiful parking 300m from the cave entrance at a cost of 6 Euros per day.
How to get to Postojna Cave by Train
Direct trains run regularly to the town of Postojna which is on the Venice to Vienna line. The journey from Ljubljana to Postojna takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. From the train station, the following options are available
| Mode | Duration | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 4 minutes | €8–€12 | Fastest option, though local taxis may not always wait at the station and might need to be called. |
| Walking | 25 minutes | Free | About 2.1 km uphill/stairs leaving the station area, heading toward the town and cave park. |
| Bus | 3–6 minutes | Free–€2 | Seasonal shuttle buses and regular local services can run from the railway station to the Postojnska jama stop. The free Postojna Connect shuttle operates during selected periods, while regular local buses generally cost €1–€2. Services vary by season. |
How to get to Postojna Cave by Bus
The Postojna bus station forms as a hub for intercity buses from all over Slovenia. From the bus station the following options are available
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walking | 15–20 minutes | Free | Easy, straightforward walk of about 1.3 to 1.5 km from the town centre/bus station to the cave park. |
| Taxi | 3 minutes | €8–€12 | Fastest option, available from local operators near the town. |
| Direct Bus | 3–6 minutes | €1–€2 | Selected intercity or local buses may continue directly to the Postojnska jama stop (best checked when booking your initial ticket). |
How to Visit Postojna Cave on an Organised Tour
Postojna Cave is one of Slovenia’s most popular day trips from Ljubljana and beyond. Most operators group it with other attractions like nearby Predjama Castle, Lake Bled and Piran.
What is the Postojna Cave experience like?
The Postojna Cave is among Slovenia’s most iconic natural attractions. With around 24 kilometres of cave system, they are the country’s second-longest network and the most accessible for visitors.
From the moment you step into the portal of the Postojna Cave, you enter another world. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
The Train Ride – Unique to Postojna Cave in Slovenia
Postojna Cave is the only show cave in the world where access is by train. Visitors board the underground train which takes you into the depths of the cave system. The train is historic and adds a sense of old-world adventure.
The train ride is great fun. You career through the tunnels deeper into the cave complex. It’s a bit like a roller coaster ride. Just when you think you’re going to crash into a wall, the train flicks to one side. I’m not particularly tall, but even I was ducking.
Walking Tour
After the train ride you continue on foot through illuminated galleries, past enormous stalactites and stalagmites, and into enormous halls (some big enough to hold thousands of people). For example, one, “Grand Hall” can hold up to 10,000 visitors.
Some formations to look out for:
- “Skyscraper” – a 16-metre high stalagmite.
- The “Brilliant” – the iconic white calcite column in the cave.
Wildlife: the Baby dragons (Olms)
Within the cave system is a vivarium where you may see the pink-gilled, blind cave salamander known as the olm. These creatures have captured the imagination of visitors for generations, and are often called baby dragons due to their appearance.
They’re only found in this type of cave system.
The olm is the symbol of Slovenia’s Postojna cave and appears on its merchandise and marketing.
Extra attractions
Depending on your ticket you might also explore:
- EXPO Cave Karst – an interactive exhibition about the formation of the cave and karst processes.
- Adventure tours – for those who want a more challenging caving experience (with helmets, boots, ropes).
History of Postojna Cave, Slovenia
Obviously, the Postojna Cave has been tens of thousands of years in the making, but they have a modern history too. There is evidence (carved graffiti) of human activity in the cave as far back as the 13th century, but the first written record of their existence was in the 17th Century.
The cave’s history of welcoming sightseers began in 1818, when the cave lamplighter, Luka Čeč, discovered a new area while preparing the cave for the visit of the Austrian-Hungarian emperor, Francis I.
Archduke Ferdinand also visited the cave the following year, and popularised it as a tourist attraction.
The Postojna Cave can claim many records. They were lit with electricity before Ljubljana, and even London. The train which takes visitors into the cave is the only one of its type in the world.
The Olm, the blind amphibian found in the cave, was mentioned by Charles Darwin in his famous, “Origin of Species”.
Postojna Cave, Slovenia – Opening times & tickets
The cave is open year-round, though frequencies of tours vary by season. Check on the official site before booking:
- In winter (November–March): only a few tours daily (e.g., at 10:00, 12:00 and 15:00)
- In spring/summer (April–October): hourly or near-hourly tours in peak season.
Advance booking is recommended, especially in high season. The tickets are timed, so you’ll need to be sure you’re at the cave punctually so you don’t miss your slot.
Also take note: the cave’s internal temperature stays around 8-10 °C, (46-50 °F) so bring a jacket or warm layer.
What to bring & smart tips
- Warm clothing / layer up: cave temperatures are consistent and quite cool.
- Comfortable walking shoes: the floor may be wet or slippery.
- Camera or phone for photos: many formations and the train ride make for great shots.
- Pre-book your ticket and arrive 15 minutes early for check-in.
- If using public transport, check the return schedule so you’re not caught waiting too long.
Best Time to Go
To avoid crowds, early morning tours are ideal. In summer you’ll encounter more visitors; in spring/autumn the atmosphere is a little more relaxed. Trips in the winter are also possible, though fewer tours are available.
Combining with nearby attractions
Predjama Castle
If you have time after visiting Postojna Cave, it is worth combining your visit with Predjama Castle, about 9 km away. This extraordinary medieval castle is built directly into the mouth of a cave beneath a towering limestone cliff, making it one of the most unusual castles in Slovenia.
The castle is particularly associated with Erasmus of Predjama, a 15th-century knight who, according to local legend, resisted a siege here for more than a year. The cave behind the castle provided a secret route for bringing supplies into the fortress, helping Erasmus and his followers withstand the siege.
Inside, you can explore the medieval rooms, see weapons and furniture and, most importantly, appreciate how the castle has been incorporated into the natural rock. The combination of the castle, cliffs and cave system makes the setting more interesting than the interior alone.
How Long do you Need?
Allow around 1 to 1½ hours to explore Predjama Castle. It works particularly well as a second attraction after Postojna Cave, although you will need to allow extra time for travelling between the two.
Seasonal shuttle services can operate between Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, while taxis and cars provide alternatives. Check the current timetable if you are travelling outside the main summer season.
Is Predjama Castle suitable for older travellers?
Predjama involves stairs, uneven surfaces and narrow passages, so it isn’t as straightforward for anyone with significant mobility problems. If you are reasonably mobile, however, it is a manageable addition to a day at Postojna Cave.
If you enjoy castles, history or unusual architecture, I’d definitely consider adding Predjama to your itinerary. The combination of Postojna’s spectacular underground world and a medieval castle built into the same limestone landscape makes a particularly memorable day out.
I recommend this tour, which I did. Others may look cheaper, but don’t include the entry to the cave and castle, which this one does. It also arrived early at the castle. We were the first ones in. 30 minutes later, there were 6 coaches in the car park and the narrow steps and corridors were packed.
This tour from Ljubljana covers Postojna cave, Predjama Castle and Lake Bled in a day. Ideal if your time in Slovenia is limited
Postojna Cave or Škocjan Caves?
If you only have time to visit one cave system in Slovenia, you may be wondering whether to choose Postojna Cave or Škocjan Caves. Both are spectacular, but they offer quite different experiences.
Postojna Cave is the easier and more accessible choice for most visitors. The tour begins with a ride on the famous underground railway before continuing on foot through enormous chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. The route is well organised and the train means you don’t have to walk the entire distance underground. It is also easy to combine with a visit to nearby Predjama Castle.
Škocjan Caves offer a more dramatic and wild experience. The highlight is the enormous underground canyon created by the Reka River, with huge caverns and walkways high above the river. The setting feels much less like a conventional tourist attraction and more like an adventure underground.
There are some practical differences too. Škocjan involves considerably more walking and stairs, while Postojna’s underground train makes the experience easier for visitors who don’t want to walk several kilometres through a cave.
| Postojna Cave | Škocjan Caves | |
|---|---|---|
| Main attraction | Huge caverns and spectacular formations | Enormous underground canyon |
| Underground train | Yes | No |
| Walking required | Around 1½ hours, including the train | More walking and stairs |
| Experience | More accessible and organised | More dramatic and natural |
| Best for | First-time cave visitors and older travellers | Adventure and dramatic scenery |
| Nearby attraction | Predjama Castle | Škocjan Regional Park |
Where to Stay in Postojna
Staying in Postojna is a good option if you want to visit Postojna Cave without rushing your day. It also gives you more time to combine the cave with Predjama Castle and explore some of the surrounding karst landscape.
There are hotels, guesthouses and apartments in and around Postojna, with several options within easy reach of the town centre and Postojna Cave.
If you’re travelling without a car, look for accommodation close to the town centre or railway station. This makes it easier to reach the cave by walking, taxi or local bus.
Click here to see a selection of accommodation options.
FAQs & insider tips
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes — the standard tour is suitable for most. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Some of the adventure tours require more physical ability and have age/capability restrictions.
Is Postojna Cave Accessible
Yes, Postojna Cave is accessible and comply with Slovenia’s accessibility laws. The complex features dedicated disabled car parking spots, toilets and wheelchair friendly entrance points. The cave themselves have nonslip flooring and there are no steps. However, there is a fairly steep slope (20%) of about 200m, with a corresponding descent. Wheelchair users will need a support person, and must give 48 hours’ notice to the Cave management.
How long does the tour take?
Typically around 90 minutes for the main guided tour including the underground train ride.
Is photography allowed?
Yes — you’re free to take photos. Just remember: flash isn’t allowed in some parts (check with your guide) and always follow the rules (e.g., not touching formations).
What about crowds & best timing?
In peak summer months expect more visitors. Aim for an early tour slot or visit in shoulder seasons (spring, autumn) for a slightly quieter experience.
What’s the weather like inside?
As noted earlier, 8-10 °C (46-50 °F) is typical inside Postojna cave. Dress in layers and bring a light jacket or jumper.
Are there food / drink facilities?
Yes — at the entrance area (and park) there are café/restaurant facilities. But once inside the cave system the tour is sealed, so stock up beforehand.
Final thoughts – Postojna Cave, Slovenia
Visiting the Postojna Cave, Slovenia isn’t just another tourist stop! It’s an experience that combines geology, history, natural wonder and a sense of discovery. Whether you’re exploring the underground corridors, gliding on the cave train, marvelling at icy white formations, or peering into the world of ancient subterranean creatures — you’re in for something truly memorable.
If you plan carefully (book ahead, dress warmly, pick a less busy tour time) you’ll ensure your visit is seamless, enjoyable and inspiring. And once you emerge into daylight again, you’ll carry with you the memory of an underground realm few places can match.
Latest Posts from Slovenia
