Travelling Slovenia as a Vegan or Vegetarian: What Surprised Me Most

Before travelling to Slovenia, one of the questions I was asked most often was, “Will I be able to find good vegan food?” It’s a fair question. Slovenia has a reputation for hearty, traditional cuisine featuring cured meats, sausages and cheese, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect either.

After spending time walking through the country from the Julian Alps to the Adriatic Coast, I can confidently say that travelling as a vegan or vegetarian in Slovenia is far easier than you might imagine.

Cities are a Plant-Based Paradise

Ljubljana completely surprised me. Not only is it an incredibly walkable and vibrant capital, but it also has an excellent vegan food scene.

One of my favourite discoveries was Gaudi & Naan, where I enjoyed a vegan take on a traditional Slovenian sausage served with sauerkraut and paired with a beautiful local wine. The owner made me feel genuinely welcome, chatting about Slovenian food and helping me choose dishes that showcased local flavours.

For something quick, Abi Falafel serves some of the freshest falafel I’ve had, while Moji Štruklji Slovenije offers vegan versions of Slovenia’s famous dumplings alongside fresh salads. 

If you’re craving comfort food after a day exploring, Pops Place serves outstanding vegan burgers, and Fari’s is perfect for fresh bowls, pitas and salads.

The variety genuinely exceeded my expectations. 

It Gets More Traditional in the Countryside

As you venture into Slovenia’s smaller villages and rural regions, the food naturally becomes more traditional. Menus are often smaller and built around seasonal local produce.

This is where travelling with an open mind really helps.

I was still able to find vegan meals throughout my trip, but there were occasions where vegetarian choices were far more common than fully vegan options. Slovenia produces exceptional local cheeses, and many small family-run restaurants use ingredients sourced from nearby farms rather than relying on imported specialty products.

If your diet allows a little flexibility while travelling, you’ll find even more opportunities to enjoy authentic local hospitality. If you’re strictly vegan, it’s still entirely achievable—you may simply need to ask about ingredients or choose from simpler dishes featuring seasonal vegetables, beans, soups or salads. 

Fresh, Seasonal Food is Everywhere

One thing I loved about eating in Slovenia was how fresh everything tasted.

Many villages embrace a genuine farm-to-table philosophy. Produce often travels only a short distance from farm to plate, and menus change with the seasons. Whether I was enjoying colourful grain bowls beside Lake Bohinj or fresh salads in the countryside, the quality of the ingredients really stood out.

Even in destinations better known for traditional cuisine, I regularly found restaurants happy to accommodate dietary  requests.  

Some of My Favourite Finds

If you’re travelling through Slovenia, these were some standout favourites:

• Ljubljana: Gaudi & Naan, Abi Falafel, Moji Štruklji Slovenije, Pops Place and Fari’s.
• Radovljica: Grajska Gostilnica offers a dedicated vegan menu alongside traditional Slovenian dishes, while Gostilna Avgustin has lovely vegetarian options and a beautiful terrace overlooking the town.
• Lake Bled: Public Bar & Vegan Kitchen serves fantastic burgers and craft beer, while Bowl Bar is ideal for a fresh lunch after walking.
• Lake Bohinj: Divja Jaga became an easy favourite, I enjoyed their vegan bowl twice during my stay.

A Few Tips for Vegan and Vegetarian Travellers

• Take advantage of the excellent vegan scene in Ljubljana before or after your walking holiday.
• Carry a few snacks for longer walking days between villages.
• Be open to seasonal, locally produced food.
• If you’re travelling through smaller villages, it’s worth having a little flexibility, as vegetarian options are generally more common than dedicated vegan meals.

Final Thoughts

Slovenia may not have the same plant-based reputation as some larger European destinations, but that is part of its charm.

Rather than relying on processed alternatives, you’ll discover a country that celebrates fresh produce, local ingredients and genuine hospitality. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or simply enjoy eating more plant-based meals while travelling, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

For me, Slovenia wasn’t just one of Europe’s most beautiful walking destinations, it also became one of its most pleasantly surprising food destinations.