The alpine towns of Kranjska Gora and Bovec—set 30 miles (40 km) apart—are the north and south entry points to Triglav National Park. To travel between the two, you’ll navigate a scenic mountain pass either through or around the park. The fastest and most convenient way is by car—rental or private transfer—which takes about one hour.
If you’re traveling from June—September, you can reach Bovec in 1.5 hours via a seasonal bus through Vršič Pass. Similarly, the regional bus offers a summer route that travels to Bovec via the way of Tarvisio, Italy and Predil Pass. That option takes about two hours.
If you’re up for an adventure, you can also hike the route via the Alpe Adria Trail in two or more days.
By Rental Car or Private Transfer
Duration: 1 hour
The most convenient way to reach Bovec is by rental car or private transfer. Both can be booked in Kranjska Gora. The drive will take about one hour and offers two routes: via Vršič Pass or Predil Pass.
Vršič Pass runs through the park and is only open when the weather allows (consistently in the summer and periodically during the winter). It’s a proper mountain road, so be prepared for many twists and turns. The scenery makes it worth it, with stunning views of the Julian Alps. Some great stopping points include Lake Jasna, Ruska Kapelica (the Russian Church), and the alpine villages of Trenta and Soča. There are also a few parking areas that offer picnic tables and day hikes. You can get free maps of the park and hiking trails from the visitor center in Kranjska Gora.
The other route takes you west on Road 202/SS54 via Tarvisio, Italy, and then south over Predil Pass. If you’re skittish of mountain roads, Predil Pass is a bit easier to navigate while still offering incredible views of the mountains. Lago di Fusine (Fusine Lake) is an excellent stopping point for a picnic lunch. Because Italy and Slovenia are both in the Schengen Zone, you don’t have to worry about crossing borders (although your rental car company may require a small fee).
By Bus
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
In the summer months—mainly June through September—there are two seasonal bus routes that run from Kranjska Gora to Bovec. Much like driving, one route makes the journey via Vršič Pass (1.5 hours), and the other through Predil Pass (two hours). Grab a seat on the left side of the bus for the best views.
By Foot
Duration: 2+ days
Because this route runs through Triglav National Park, it’s also possible to hike to Bovec. You'll follow 26 miles of the Soča Trail, which is a segment of the famous Alpe Adria Trail that crosses into three countries: Austria,Italy, and Slovenia. This particular route—Kranjska Gora to Bovec—is considered Stages 23 and 24.
It’s convenient to break up the hike into two days by staying a night in Trenta, or three days by adding a night in Soča. There are plenty of guest houses available in each village, just be sure to book in advance.
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