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Cave · Postojna, Primorsko-notranjska
Postojna Cave
The cave has more than 24 km of galleries, visited since the 19th century, where an electric train takes visitors inside before a guided walk through halls of stalactites. The proteus, a blind amphibian of the underground waters, lives there.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Postojna Cave
Postojna Cave (Postojnska jama) was carved by the Pivka River, which sinks into the rock near the town and runs beneath the karst. There are more than 24 km of known passages, and the tourist route uses a little over 5 km of them. Tourist visits began in the early 19th century, and the first rail inside the cave was installed in 1872.
Today, an electric train runs about 3.5 km through galleries and halls, and the rest of the route, roughly 1.5 km, is done on foot with a guide, along illuminated paths and bridges. The complete visit takes about an hour and a half. Among the best-known points are the Great Mountain, the Russian Bridge, built by prisoners during the First World War, and the Brilliant, a white stalagmite. The tour ends in the Concert Hall, a chamber so large it has hosted musical performances.
In the cave waters lives the proteus (Proteus anguinus), a blind amphibian with pinkish skin that can live more than a hundred years and is endemic to the karst of the western Balkans. An aquarium on the route displays some specimens, and the Proteus Vivarium, next to the entrance, shows other cave animals.
The cave is open every day of the year, only with guided visits at fixed times. Inside the temperature is about 10 °C, with high humidity, and raincoats are available for rent at the entrance.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
The guided visit takes about an hour and a half; with the vivarium and the exhibition about the karst, allow two and a half to three hours.
Best time
At the earliest morning time slots, when there are fewer people. In summer, book in advance. Because the temperature inside is constant, the cave is a good option on rainy days or during very hot weather.
How to get there
About a 15-minute walk from Postojna center. By car, there is paid parking next to the entrance. The train station is about 2 km away.
Tip
Bring a jacket even in summer and wear closed shoes: the floor is damp. If you also plan to see Predjama, buy the combined ticket.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Postojna Cave
How long does the visit to Postojna Cave last?
About an hour and a half, including the train ride and a guided walk of about 1.5 km.
What is the temperature inside Postojna Cave?
Around 10 °C year-round, with high humidity. Bring a jacket.
What is the proteus of Postojna Cave?
A blind amphibian with pale skin that lives only in the underground waters of the Dinaric region and can live for more than a hundred years.
Is Postojna Cave open in winter?
Yes, it’s open every day of the year, with fewer tour times outside of summer.