To make the most of your visit to Celje, where the European FCI dog show takes place, the Celeia Celje Institute has put together some guidelines highlighting the experiences you shouldn't miss.
Celje Castle
The mighty Celje Castle, the largest fortress in Slovenia, once served as the seat of the Counts and Princes of Celje, one of the most influential European noble families of the 15th century.
Today, it is the most visited historical tourist attraction in the Savinja region, especially lively during the summer months with a variety of music, cultural, and historical events. The Friderik Tower and Pelikan Tower host permanent exhibitions, "Theater of Horror" (history of torture devices) and "Under the Golden Stars," (life in medieval ages) which are open year-round. Various guided tours, medieval feasts, knighthood ceremonies, and wedding arrangements are also available by prior appointment.
For more information, visit www.visitcelje.eu.
Tehnopark Celje
The first and largest park of science, technology, and innovation in Slovenia, Tehnopark Celje, is a space for play, learning, socializing, and marveling at the world. Spread over 4,000 square meters, visitors can explore various interactive stations that bring scientific, technical, and natural topics to life. These interactive stations also introduce stories from Celje and its surroundings, interpreted by their Techno Characters.
For more information, visit www.visitcelje.eu.
Celje Regional Museum
The Celje Regional Museum is the heart of the city's cultural identity, preserving and revealing the rich history and cultural heritage of the Celje region for over 130 years. The museum features the ancient Celeia, a hidden gem from Roman times, and the magnificent story of the Counts of Celje, a powerful noble family that left an indelible mark on Slovenian history. The museum also hosts an extensive exhibition on Celje's greatest world traveler, Alma M. Karlin, whose exotic tales will take you on an exciting journey around the world.
For more information, visit www.visitcelje.eu.
Photo House Pelikan
Before the era of smartphones, photography was a real adventure—a journey you can relive at the Photo House Pelikan. One of the best-preserved glass studios in Europe began operations under photographer Josip Pelikan at the turn of the 20th century. The Photo House Pelikan offers visitors a glimpse into the past, with a gallery, retouching room, and darkroom on display. By prior appointment, you can also be photographed using an old photographic technique. To enhance the experience, you can wear early 20th-century costumes, making your photographs even more special. The Photo House Pelikan is more than just a museum—it's an opportunity for an unforgettable journey through time and a chance to experience photography as it once was.
For more information, visit www.muzej-nz-ce.si.
Center for Contemporary Arts Celje
The Center for Contemporary Arts Celje (CSU), with its rich permanent collection and new acquisitions, is one of the most important institutions for modern and contemporary art in the region. It includes the Gallery of Contemporary Art, Likovni Salon and Gallery Račka. CSU focuses on the study, production,
and presentation of contemporary art, particularly from the 1970s to the present. The Gallery of Contemporary Art presents both Slovenian and international artists, emphasizing the diversity of contemporary practices and themes. Likovni Salon is dedicated to producing new projects and exploring current issues, while Gallery Račka addresses questions of desire, the body, and sexual identities.
For more information, visit www.csu.si.
Šmartinsko Lake
Approximately 7 km north of Celje's city center, you'll find a large oasis—Šmartinsko Lake. Both tourists and locals flock here to escape the city bustle or enjoy the fresh air. A well-maintained walking path circles part of the lake, and young explorers will love the playground near Brkati Som. Take a moment to relax at one of the many local eateries and cafes during your exploration.
For more information, visit www.smartinskojezero.si.