Opatija to Miramare Castle and Postojna Cave: Day trip

The eclectic castle, often characterized by its “white towers”, was built for Archduke Maximilian (the future emperor of Mexico) and his wife Charlotte in 1860. After a brief reign as emperor of Mexico, he was tragically shot and killed. His wife Charlotte went insane after the Archduke’s death, spending her remaining years in seclusion. From this tragic tale was born a legend that anyone who sleeps in Miramore Castle is fated to die a violent death at a young age and in a foreign land. Today, the historically rich castle is open to the public. A huge botanical park, made up of exotic trees, surrounds the grounds. Walk freely through the beautiful garden and around the castle grounds. For a fee, it’s also possible to tour the interiors of the castle with its preserved original furnishings. There is also a museum with a bookshop and a bar in the garden to enjoy the scenery.

Postojna is a 24,120m long cave in southwestern Slovenia, making it the second longest cave in the country. The cave is a 24-kilometer network of passages, galleries, and chambers. Begin your visit aboard the cave train, which takes you on a 2-kilometer ride deep into the caves. After the ride, you’ll go comfortably on foot to explore more of the caves. Electric lighting allows you to take in all the splendor of the towering limestone formations. Guided tours are available and last approx. 1.5 hours. Audio guides are also available in 15 different languages.