Things To Do
in Cerklje na Gorenjskem

Cerklje na Gorenjskem is a small municipality in the Upper Carniola region of Slovenia, perched on the foothills of the Kamnik–Savinja Alps. The village serves as a tranquil gateway to alpine landscapes, with easy access to the Krvavec ski area and numerous forest trails. Its proximity to Ljubljana makes it a convenient escape from the city while preserving rural charm and Slovenian hospitality.

Visitors can enjoy scenic views, historic churches, and a relaxed Alpine atmosphere year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike in the nearby Kamnik-Savinja Alps, soaking in the stunning views and the fresh mountain air. Visit the beautiful Velika Planina to experience a traditional alpine settlement and enjoy the picturesque meadows. Pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy in the great outdoors amidst the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, head back to Cerklje na Gorenjskem and have lunch at a local eatery, indulging in traditional Slovenian dishes. Spend the afternoon visiting the local art galleries and shops, where you can find unique handmade crafts. Take a leisurely walk through the town to appreciate the charming architecture and historical sites.

evening
:

As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a local restaurant featuring regional specialties. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you sip on local wine while reflecting on the day's adventures. End your night with a peaceful stroll through the town, admiring the starlit sky.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the nearby town of Kranj, exploring its medieval old town filled with history and charm. Stop by the Prešeren Theatre and the unique Layer House, taking in the local culture and art. Grab a quick breakfast in one of the cozy cafes that line the streets.

afternoon
:

Dedicate your afternoon to the Gorenjska Museum, where you’ll learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Gorenjska region. Engage with local exhibitions and displays that showcase traditional crafts and historical artifacts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby bistro before heading to visit the charming Church of St. Cantianus.

evening
:

In the evening, return to Cerklje and participate in a local cooking class, learning to prepare Slovene dishes from a friendly local chef. Share your culinary creations over dinner with fellow participants, making it a memorable experience. Wind down with a glass of homemade Schnapps as you exchange stories about your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee/tea$2-4
🥗Three-course meal for two$25-45
🚗Car rental per day$40-70
🧺Grocery basics (weekly)$25-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Ljubljana and Kranj with easy day trips
  • Beautiful Alpine scenery and outdoor access
  • Friendly, small-town atmosphere with traditional charm
  • Limited direct nightlife and large-scale events
  • Some services and restaurants may have limited hours outside peak season
  • "Dober dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Prosim" - Please/You're welcome
  • "Kje je stranišče?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Cerklje na Gorenjskem

Visit one of these nice places.

Cerklje na Gorenjskem Church and village square

A quintessential Alpine village scene with traditional architecture and a backdrop of hills.

Hill viewpoints above the village

Pocket viewpoints that frame the Kamnik–Savinja Alps on clear days.

Krvavec area from afar at dawn

Open, airy landscapes with soft morning light and alpine silhouettes.

Golden fields and hay bales in late summer

Seasonal farming scenes with rural charm and wide horizons.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cerklje na Gorenjskem

Slovenian rural cuisine celebrates dairy, mushrooms, herbs, and hearty meat dishes. In Cerklje you’ll find simple, seasonal fare that pairs well with local wines and apples.

Cerklje na Gorenjskem Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Štruklji

Rolled dumplings with savory cheese or mushroom fillings, commonly served as a comforting dish in Upper Carniola.

Must-Try!

Kranjska klobasa

Carniolan sausage, usually enjoyed grilled with sauerkraut or potatoes and a dab of mustard.

Žganci

Cornmeal mush served with various toppings such as curd cheese or mushrooms; a rustic, comforting staple.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cerklje Farmers Market (seasonal)

Seasonal stalls with fresh dairy, cheeses, honey, berries, and locally baked goods; excellent for a picnic.

Markets in nearby Kranj or Ljubljana

Vibrant markets offering fresh produce, regional specialties, and street snacks when you travel a short distance.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cerklje na Gorenjskem has a temperate continental climate with Alpine influences. Expect warm summers, cold winters, and rainfall distributed throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite “Dober dan” (Good day) goes a long way; a handshake is common when meeting people.

Respect for Quiet and Nature

Keep noise to a minimum, don’t litter, and respect private property on hikes.

Safety Guide

Safety

The area is generally very safe with low crime. Exercise standard travel precautions, especially on mountain trails and during winter driving; carry maps and a charged phone, and dial 112 in emergencies.

Tipping in Cerklje na Gorenjskem

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in sit-down restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; ATMs are common; small family-run places may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Wildflowers bloom, streams swell, and trails are lush; be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Summer

Warm days with cool evenings; ideal for hiking and outdoor cafes; afternoon storms possible.

Autumn

Colors turn to gold and red; harvest festivals and quieter trails; pack a light jacket.

Winter

Snow-capped peaks and the Krvavec area offer winter sports; colder temperatures and potential icy roads; winter tires recommended.

Nightlife Guide

Cerklje na Gorenjskem at Night

The nightlife in Cerklje na Gorenjskem is low-key, with a few local bars and cafes. For more options, residents and visitors often travel to nearby Kranj or Ljubljana for live music and late-night venues.

Hiking in Cerklje na Gorenjskem

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lubnik summit hike

Moderate ascent with rewarding views over the valley and Kamnik Alps.

Storžič via Dolina

Ambitious day hike to Storžič, a prominent Alpine peak to the north.

Krvavec foothill trails

Several easy to moderate trails around the Krvavec area with alpine meadows; suitable for families.

Airports

How to reach Cerklje na Gorenjskem by plane.

Jože Pučnik Ljubljana Airport (Brnik)

Closest international airport, about a 20–30 minute drive to Cerklje depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cerklje na Gorenjskem is walkable within the village center, with pedestrian-friendly streets. For surrounding hills and Krvavec, private transport or local buses are common, but there are marked trails for hikers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Resident Slovenians

Majority population with a growing number of seasonal residents and airport workers.

Expats and seasonal workers

Some international workers connected to tourism and logistics.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing and snowboarding

Main winter sport around Krvavec with runs for all levels.

Hiking and trail running

Popular in summer across forest trails and ridges.

Cycling

Road and mountain biking loops through the countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads are well maintained; traffic is light in the village but can increase heading to Ljubljana or Kranj during rush hours. Local buses connect to larger towns; car rental is convenient for exploring the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cerklje na Gorenjskem.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer cheese, mushroom, and vegetable dishes; ask for meat-free options; pastries and side dishes can supplement meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available in the municipality; for more advanced care, residents typically visit hospitals in Kranj or Ljubljana. In emergencies, dial 112; health insurance through Slovenia’s national system covers most services.

Discover Slovenia

Read more in our Slovenia 2025 Travel Guide.

Slovenia Travel Guide