How to Get from Bovec to Ljubljana

Bovec—the western gate to Triglav National Park—is just 94 miles (152 km) from Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana. The journey between the two is most conveniently done by rental car or private transfer, and can be accomplished in 2 - 2.5 hours depending on your preferred route. The routes are quite scenic and include many of the country’s highlights. If you have time to extend your trip, this 8-day tour may interest you.

Public transportation—by bus or by a train/transfer combination—is another option, both taking 3.5 - 4 hours. Note that the regional bus only operates seasonally during the summer months, June through August. If paired with a private transfer, the train is doable but it's not a very convenient option. There's no train station in Bovec, so you'll first take a 1-hour transfer to Most na Soči. The train to Ljubljana isn't direct, requiring one connection in the city of Jesenice.

By Rental Car or Private Transfer

Duration: 2-2.5 hours

If you’re looking for convenience and speed, your best option is to make the journey by car—rental or private transfer. Depending on your preferred route, you should reach Ljubljana in 2 - 2.5 hours. If you opt for a private transfer—and you’re traveling outside the summer tourist season—it’s best to book it in advance.

Arguably the most scenic route is via Vršič Pass, a twisty alpine road that cuts straight through Triglav National Park. You’ll pass the mountain villages of Soča and Trenta—both excellent stops for a picnic lunch or a day hike—before exiting the park at the town of Kranjska Gora. From here, you’ll take road 201 until you connect with highway E61. This route takes you past Lake Bled—a perfect stop for a meal or to stretch your legs—and all the way to Ljubljana. In total, this option takes about two hours.

Vršič Pass closes periodically throughout the winter due to heavy snowfall. If you’re traveling during this time, you can leave Triglav National Park via Predil Pass. This takes you to Tarvisio, Italy before cutting east on SS54 towards Kranjska Gora. Lago di Fusine (Lake Fusine) is a stunning option for a picnic lunch or a stroll. As with the first route, you’ll eventually connect to E61 all the way to Ljubljana. This option also takes about two hours.

The third route is via the picturesque Soča River Valley, which is famous for its bright, turquoise waters. Road 203 takes you south and towards Kobarid—a good stopping point for lunch—where you’ll transfer to road 102. You’ll pass by the Tolmin Gorges which make for a beautiful and simple day hike. You’ll eventually connect to road 210 to Ljubljana and pass through Škofja Loka, another town worth a visit. This option is a bit longer at 2.5 hours.

By Bus

Duration: 3.5-4 hours

The regional bus is a budget-friendly option, although it only operates during the summer tourist season. The bus follows one of the three routes mentioned above. If the bus goes through one of the mountain passes—Vršič Pass or Predil Pass—snag a seat on the right side for the best views. If it follows the Soča River Valley, grab a seat on the left.

By Train/Transfer

Duration: 3.5-4 hours

The train is the least convenient option, but makes for a good alternative if you prefer public transportation and aren't traveling in the summer. However, there isn’t a train station in Bovec; rather, the nearest stop is in Most na Soči—the public transportation hub for the Soča River Valley—which is 25 miles (one hour) away from Bovec. From here, the train to Ljubljana takes another 2.5 - 3 hours and requires a connection in Jesenice.