Things To Do
in Šoštanj
Šoštanj is a small town in northern Slovenia set in the Šaleška Valley along the Savinja River. It blends an industrial legacy with easy access to nature and outdoor activity. The town sits as a gateway to the nearby Lake Velenje and rolling hills, offering a calm base for exploring central Slovenia.
Visitors can enjoy riverfront walks, cultural sights, and scenic hikes within reach.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Šoštanj, settle into your accommodations, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Take a stroll around the town center to admire the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Church of St. Mary Magdalene, perched atop a hill, for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Head to the nearby Velenje Castle, where you can explore the fascinating exhibits that detail the region's history. Take some time to relax by the lakeside in Velenje, enjoying the serenity and picturesque scenery. Savor a traditional Slovenian lunch at a local restaurant, sampling local delicacies.
Return to Šoštanj for a delightful dinner at a local eatery, where you can indulge in hearty, homemade meals. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk through the town's parks and squares, soaking in the evening ambiance. End your night with a drink at a cozy bar, mingling with locals and reflecting on your day.
Start your day with breakfast at a café, followed by a guided hike to the nearby mountains for stunning views and fresh air. The trail offers opportunities to observe local flora and fauna, making it a perfect start for nature enthusiasts. Ensure you pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks during the hike.
After your hike, explore the beautiful Logar Valley, known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Spend your afternoon visiting showcases of natural waterfalls and walking through lush green landscapes. Don't forget to stop at a local farm for fresh produce and homemade snacks.
Return to Šoštanj for dinner, where you can try grilled trout from nearby rivers at a waterfront restaurant. After your meal, relax at your accommodation or join a local event if available, mingling with residents and experiencing their culture. The peaceful evening ambiance of the town will serve as a perfect winding down experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Cappuccino in a café | $3-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with easy access to nature and nearby lake
- Friendly locals and a calm base for exploring central Slovenia
- Limited nightlife and larger-scale attractions within the town itself
- Smaller selection of international dining compared to bigger cities
- "Pozdravljeni" - Hello
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Prosimo" - Please
- "Kje je stranišče?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Koliko stane?" - How much is it?
- "Jaz govorim angleško." - I speak English
Places to Visit in Šoštanj
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour reflections along the bend of the Savinja River with the town’s skyline and bridges as foregrounds.
Calm water, marina activity, and mountain silhouettes provide excellent wide-angle shots at sunrise or sunset.
Industrial structures against a dramatic sky offer stark, atmospheric photos, especially during blue hour.
A hillside vantage point over the town and lake, perfect for panoramic cityscapes.
Food in Šoštanj
Šoštanj Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Dainty dumplings typically served with onion sauce and sometimes bacon bits; a regional favorite you may find in traditional inns.
Must-Try!
Cornmeal mush served with dairy or goulash, a simple, comforting staple found in many Slovenian homes and taverns.
A hearty stew of beans, sauerkraut, potatoes, and often smoked meat; a winter staple in the wider region.
Carniolan sausage that pairs well with sauerkraut or mustard; widely available in local eateries.
A traditional rolled pastry with walnut, tarragon or other fillings; a popular dessert and souvenir treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market nearby where you can taste fresh dairy, meat, honey, fruits, and baked goods, with friendly local vendors.
Seasonal produce and regional specialties sold by local farmers; great for picking up cheeses and local preserves.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact is common when meeting others; greet with a polite 'Dober dan' (Good day) or 'Živijo' (Hi).
Being on time is appreciated for appointments and dining; plan for a relaxed pace but respect schedules.
Ask before taking photos of people; leave no trace on trails and dispose of waste properly.
Safety
Tipping in Šoštanj
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory. If service charge isn’t included, leave ~5-10% in restaurants and cafés; rounding up change is common for taxis.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted in towns. Contactless and mobile payments are common, but some small rural spots may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional showers; great for lake activities and long outdoor dining hours. Pack sunscreen and light layers; evenings stay pleasant.
Mild days with colorful foliage in the valley; ideal for hikes and photography with soft light. Carry a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.
Cold with possible snow in the hills; some outdoor trails may be icy. Stay warm, wear waterproof footwear, and enjoy cozy taverns by the fire.
Rising temperatures and blooming landscapes; late-season rain can occur. Great for city walks and early-m-season hikes.
Šoštanj at Night
Hiking in Šoštanj
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails along the river, suitable for all ages and a great way to see the landscape.
Forested hillside trails with scenic overlooks and longer routes for hikers seeking elevation.
Loop around the lake with varied scenery, ideal for a relaxed day hike.
Short climbs to viewpoints near the castle for panoramic views of the valley.
Airports
How to reach Šoštanj by plane.
Main international airport for central Slovenia; about 60-90 minutes by road to Šoštanj.
Nearby Austrian airport with connections to several European cities; roughly a 1.5-2 hour drive.
Regional airport with occasional international flights; longer drive but accessible for some travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents are families living in the town and surrounding villages.
An aging but active population with strong ties to local traditions.
People who commute to nearby towns for work or study, contributing to a dynamic local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across the region with local clubs and junior programs.
Scenic routes in the valley and hills attract daily cyclists and enthusiasts.
Common in local gyms and community centers; often played in schools.
Nearby hills offer winter sports opportunities during the season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Šoštanj.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for meat-free versions of traditional dishes (e.g., jota without meat, žganci with mushroom sauce). Many places offer daily vegetarian specials and dairy-based dishes; for vegan options, request plant-based sides or salads, and look for vegetable stews.