Ljubljana: Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle Small Group Tour

Summary

Half-day from Ljubljana to caves and castles with stories and cool air

You’ll walk through stone corridors in Predjama Castle and ride a quirky train into Postojna Cave’s chilly depths—all with a small group and a local guide who brings Slovenian legends to life. Expect cool air, uneven stairs, odd creatures (yes, really), and stories you’ll want to retell long after you’re back in Ljubljana.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to step inside a castle built into a cliff? That’s how our afternoon started, driving out from Ljubljana in this comfy little van with just six other people. Our guide, Ana, had this way of mixing local legends with dry jokes—she called Erazem of Predjama “Slovenia’s own Robin Hood, but moodier.” The castle itself looked almost unreal, clinging to the rock face above the village. Inside, it smelled faintly of old stone and wood polish. I kept touching the rough walls—cold even in June—and tried to imagine living here during a siege. We climbed so many uneven stairs (Ana warned us), but nobody rushed. At one point I caught a draft coming through an arrow slit and thought, yeah, you’d definitely know winter here.

The drive to Postojna Cave was maybe half an hour—long enough for Ana to pass around some weird local candy (liquorice? Not sure) and tell us about the “human fish” that live in the cave. The entrance felt busy but not overwhelming; lots of families, some French tourists chatting loudly. Then came the mini-train ride—kind of kitschy but honestly fun, whipping past limestone formations that looked like something out of a sci-fi movie. The air dropped to 9°C fast; my breath fogged up my glasses and I wished I’d brought thicker socks. Our cave guide pointed out these translucent salamanders hiding in pools—everyone crowded for photos but it never felt rushed or fake.

I still think about that echoing silence when we stopped deep inside the cavern—the sort that makes you whisper without knowing why. On the way back up, someone asked Ana if she ever gets tired of these places. She just smiled and said, “It’s different every time.” So yeah, if you’re looking for a day trip from Ljubljana that isn’t just ticking boxes, this one sticks with you more than you’d expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave

• Tour Predjama Castle
• Ride train inside Postojna Cave
• Explore Postojna Cave with guide

Top questions

How long is the drive from Ljubljana to Postojna Cave?

It takes about 45 minutes by minivan from central Ljubljana to Postojna Cave.

Is there hotel pickup included for this tour?

No, pickup is from a central meeting point in Ljubljana—not individual hotels.

How cold is it inside Postojna Cave?

The temperature inside Postojna Cave is around 9°C (48°F), so warm clothes are recommended.

Are there many stairs at Predjama Castle?

Yes, there are quite a few stairs at Predjama Castle but the pace is slow and manageable for most visitors.

What is the group size for this tour?

The tour runs with small groups—up to eight people per van.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; only transport and guided tours are provided.

Are entry fees included for both attractions?

No, entry fees are not mentioned as included; check when booking for details on tickets.

Can I see the human fish (proteus) during the cave tour?

You have a chance to spot proteus (the "human fish") in pools inside Postojna Cave during your guided visit.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes comfortable transport by air-conditioned minivan from central Ljubljana, guidance throughout by an English-speaking local expert, all tours at both Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave at an easygoing pace—and plenty of stories along the way before returning to town together.