Radovljica is our hometown in Slovenia. When we visit, we stay in our apartment there. The town is located in the Gorenjska region (Upper Carniola) and is rich in history, reflecting the different eras of the region. The town centre dates back to the Middle Ages. Today, Radovljica is known for its honey, beekeeping traditions, and chocolate, and it hosts an annual chocolate festival. Not far down in the valley below, the Sava Bohinjka and Sava Dolinka rivers merge to form the Sava River.
Discover Radovljica
The first settlements around the church in Radovljica were first mentioned in writing in 1296. Under the Duchy of Carniola, the town came under the Austro-Hungarian monarchy and received city rights. During this period, and until 1918, the town used the bilingual name Radovljica-Radmannsdorf. After becoming part of Yugoslavia, the name was changed to Radovljica. Many areas of Slovenia are in fact bilingual, due to the presence of Hungarian and Italian minorities. Parts of the Carinthia region in Austria are also bilingual, as many Slovenians live—or used to live—there.
Radovljica is located at the southern end of the Radovljica Plains, which lie between the Karawanke Range and the Sava River Valley. From most parts of the town, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the highest mountain in the Karawanke Range, Mount Stol. On clear days, you can also see the Julian Alps and Slovenia’s highest peak, Triglav. On the other side of town, there is a panoramic view of the Sava River Valley.
The old town remains the heart of Radovljica, with many houses dating back several hundred years. Today, it is a hub for tourism, featuring numerous restaurants and small hotels. Many restaurants have terraces offering great views of the Sava River Valley and the Julian Alps.
In the old town, you will also find an Apiculture Museum, dedicated to the history of beekeeping. Slovenia has a strong beekeeping tradition, particularly in the Gorenjska region.
Anton Tomaž Linhart is probably the most famous person from Radovljica. He was a historian and playwright who lived from 1756 to 1795. Many places in Radovljica bear his name, including Linhart Square and Hiša Linhart.
Things to Do in Radovljica
Radovljica offers many things to do, thanks to its unique location, rich history, and lovely culture.
- Bicycling - Radovljica is connected to the Bled cycle paths, making it an excellent place to start or end your cycling tours. There are several places in town where you can rent bicycles. The surrounding areas and natural landscapes around Radovljica and Bled are ideal for cycling adventures. Keep in mind that Slovenia is a mountainous country—even where it may appear flat, there are ups and downs. We recommend renting a mountain bike or an e-bike. While this blog plans to cover specific bicycle trips soon, in the meantime you can use the official Bled to plan your trips.
- Winetasting - If you want to indulge in wine tasting, purchase Slovenian wines, or simply enjoy a glass, visit Vinoteka Sodček, located at the entrance to the old town.
- Chocolate tasting - A chocolate shop located at the entrance to the old town. Radovljica also hosts a chocolate festival each year in mid-April.
Where to Stay
During the summer months, Radovljica attracts many tourists due to its proximity to Bled. However, it is not a typical tourist resort, so there are no large hotels. Instead, you will find numerous small boutique hotels and rooms for rent.
- Arthouse Radovljica - Run by an older couple who are also involved in art and culture, this large house in the old town offers a unique cultural experience that blends perfectly with its historic surroundings.
- Hiša Linhart - A one‑star Michelin restaurant where you can also stay for a few nights. It is located in the old town.
- Kunstelj 1873 - An inn just outside the old town, offering beautiful views of the Sava River Valley and the Julian Alps.
- Villas and apartments - Thanks to Radovljica’s proximity to Bled, you can find many villas, apartments, and rooms for rent.
Places to Eat
Radovljica and its surroundings offer a great selection of restaurants, from authentic Slovenian cuisine and quality pizzerias to Michelin-starred places—there’s something for everyone.
- Hiša Linhart - A one‑star Michelin restaurant located in the old town of Radovljica. You can reserve a table here.
- Vila Podvin - Another restaurant mentioned in the Michelin Guide, located in the countryside outside Radovljica. Their focus is on modern Slovenian cuisine with Slavic, German, and Italian influences. One of the highlights is the beautiful garden, especially in summer. You can book a table here
- Baffi House of Pizza - Our favorite pizza restaurant when we don’t feel like cooking. It’s located not far from where we live and features fresh ingredients from local growers and farmers, along with a selection of good craft beers.
- Kunstelj 1873 - A restaurant serving traditional Slovenian cuisine in a simple, authentic way. From the veranda, you can enjoy fantastic views of the Sava Valley and the Julian Alps. You can book a table by emailing gostilna@kunstelj.si.
- Gostilna Avguštin - Another restaurant serving traditional Slovenian cuisine, located in the old town of Radovljica. You can book a table by emailing nfo@gostilna-avgustin.si
