Idrija Half Day Excursion: UNESCO Town including Castle and Mine Tour from Ljubljana

Ljubljana , Slovenia

Idrija Half Day Excursion: UNESCO Town including Castle and Mine Tour from Ljubljana

Active

(4 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Mercury and lace story

A fascinating experience to discover the underground world of one of the oldest mercury mines in the world protected by UNESCO. Stroll through the halls of Idrija Castle with collections focusing on mercury mining and lace making.

Admire the beautiful, spiderweb-shaped Idrija lace and the presentation on how it is made. Try it for yourself!

Available options

SIHD004, 2025.26 Morning Tour

UNESCO's Idrija @08:00: Morning Tour 2025-26<br/>Pickup included

SIHD004, 2025 Afternoon Tour

UNESCO'S Idrija @12:00/13:30

What's included

Transport

Idrija Castle Museum entrance fee

Mercury mine guided tour

English speaking chauffeur guide

Detailed itinerary

Small group approach with carefully planned time, where experienced local tour operator’s chauffeur guide will collect you at designated location for an informative hourly ride to inner part of Slovenia for your UNESCO experience.

The history of mining in Idrija dates back to the 15th century when, according to a legend, a bucket maker working in a local spring spotted a small amount of liquid mercury. That happened in 1492, the year that Columbus set sail for the Americas. Only the Almadén mercury mine in Spain was bigger. Both towns were so famous that their names were used in North America for the mining towns of New Idria and New Almadén (both in California).

Visitors decent into the mine with professional guide through Anthony's Shaft, dug back in 1500. They explore the underground world of the mine where they find hidden pockets of cinnabar ore and droplets of mercury, learn about the method of mining mercury, are introduced to life-size mannequins of workers over the ages and see the mid-18th century unique underground chapel Chapel of the Holy Trinity.

The old town is dominated by the Gewerkenegg Castle which in German means mine castle. It was built in the period from 1522-1533. On display in the castle is an exhibition of the five hundred-year history of the mercury mine's operation and an impressive retrospective exhibition of Idrija lace. The castle courtyard is beautifully decorated.

The craft of bobbin lace-making occupies a very important place in the history of Idrija for more than 300 years ago. Cloths and napkins, curtains and bed linen, clothes and ornaments for clothes, even earrings, necklaces and gloves are all products made of Idrija lace.

After a nice half day experience we will return back to Ljubljana.

Drop off will be at same location as pick up.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children below 4 years are not allowed to participate a mine tour

At the time of booking please provide a full international mobile telephone number or accommodation telephone number where you can be reached before and on your travel date.

We are communicating with our clients exclusively through the point of booking, in this case TripAdvisor Interface

Not recommended for travelers with clavstrophobia

Important notes

• Minimum numbers apply, 4 pax per tour. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
•
• Allow us 15 minutes extra pick up time, thank you.
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• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, there is about 1.200m of walk, deepest point 96m below surface
• Temperature in mine shaft is 13C / 55F
• At entrance you will receive helmets and overalls for your protection.

About Ljubljana

Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning architecture, and eco-friendly initiatives. The city is compact, walkable, and filled with green spaces, making it a unique and appealing destination for all types of travelers.

Top Attractions

Ljubljana Castle

A medieval castle offering panoramic views of the city. It houses a museum, a chapel, and a puppet theater.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours €10 (includes funicular ride)

Ljubljana Cathedral

A stunning Baroque church with a green dome, dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of Ljubljana.

Religious/Architecture 30 minutes Free (donations welcome)

Tivoli City Park

The largest park in Ljubljana, offering a peaceful retreat with walking paths, sports facilities, and cultural events.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Metelkova Art District

A vibrant and alternative arts district featuring street art, galleries, and nightlife.

Cultural/Art 1-2 hours Free (some events may have admission fees)

Triple Bridge

A unique architectural ensemble consisting of three bridges connecting the city center and the castle area.

Architecture/Landmark 15-30 minutes Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Štruklji

Rolled dumplings filled with various ingredients like walnuts, tarragon, or sweet cottage cheese.

Dish Can be vegetarian or with meat fillings.

Potica

A traditional Slovenian rolled cake filled with walnuts, honey, and spices.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Kranjska Klobasa

Carnelian sausage, a type of Slovenian sausage made from pork and flavored with garlic and spices.

Main Course Contains pork.

Burek

A flaky pastry filled with minced meat, cheese, or spinach.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat fillings.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Caving in Postojna Cave Canyoning and rafting in the Soča River Boat rides on Lake Bled Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in Tivoli Park Visiting museums and galleries Attending cultural events and festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and long daylight hours. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Slovene
Widely spoken: English, German, Italian
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Ljubljana is a very safe city with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is minimal. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unusual requests

Getting there

By air

Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport • 26 km (16 miles) from city center

By train

Ljubljana Railway Station

By bus

Ljubljana Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use tickets.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxi Slovenija, UBER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Krnica Šiška

Day trips

Lake Bled

55 km (34 miles) from Ljubljana • Full day recommended

A picturesque lake surrounded by mountains, featuring a castle, a church on an island, and stunning natural beauty.

Postojna Cave

50 km (31 miles) from Ljubljana • Half day to full day recommended

One of the largest and most visited cave systems in Europe, featuring stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers.

Piran

100 km (62 miles) from Ljubljana • Full day recommended

A charming coastal town with Venetian architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful beaches.

Festivals

Ljubljana Summer Festival • June to July Ljubljana Dragon Carnival • February Ljubljana Jazz Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the Central Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional Slovenian products
Take a boat ride on the Ljubljanica River for a unique perspective of the city
Explore the Metelkova Art District for a taste of Ljubljana's alternative arts and nightlife scene
Try traditional Slovenian dishes like štruklji, potica, and kranjska klobasa
Visit Ljubljana Castle for stunning panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into its history