When are the autumn school holidays in 2026?

In the 2026/27 school year, the autumn school holidays will take place from Monday, 26 October to Friday, 30 October 2026. This applies to both primary and secondary schools throughout Slovenia. Unlike the winter school holidays, the autumn school holidays are not organised by region.
With a bit of forward planning, families can enjoy a nine-day autumn break from Saturday, 24 October to Sunday, 1 November, as the holidays fall between two weekends. The dates change every year, so it is always a good idea to check the current school calendar before making a booking.

Why are they called potato holidays?

They are officially known as the autumn school holidays, but the term “potato holidays” has become established in everyday speech. The name dates back to a time when family life and school timetables were more closely aligned with farm work. During the harvest season, children helped out at home, and one of the most important autumn chores was picking potatoes. The expression was also influenced by a similar name for the holidays in German-speaking countries.
Today’s holidays, of course, are no longer intended for field work. But the name has stuck, becoming a charming and playful term for the week when school backpacks are replaced by swimwear, hiking boots, and family time.

Where to go for the autumn school holidays

The best holiday destination for your family naturally depends on your lifestyle. Some want endless water-based fun, some want to explore nature, and some want a balance between activities for children and relaxation for adults.

A spa is always a good option, whatever the autumn weather. Children can enjoy the pools and water slides all day long, while adults can relax in the soothing thermal waters, saunas, and wellness facilities.

At Terme 3000 – Moravske Toplice, family adventures begin at one of Slovenia’s largest thermal parks. The indoor area features swimming pools spread over two floors, as well as an indoor water slide. The destination’s unique selling point is its black thermal mineral water. The hotel’s swimming pools and the rich flavours of Prekmurje’s cuisine will round off your holiday perfectly.

At Terme Ptuj, you can enjoy thermal relaxation alongside exploration of Roman history and of Slovenia’s oldest town. Families can choose from a variety of swimming pools and accommodation options, while Ptuj, with its castle, museums, and historic town centre, is a perfect destination for an autumn escape.

A more laid-back family holiday awaits you at Health Resort Zdravilišče Radenci. The Thermal Oasis is connected directly to the hotels and features ten indoor and outdoor pools. While the children enjoy the water and holiday activities, adults can explore the unique mineral wellness experience and discover the history of Radenci’s renowned CO2-rich mineral water.

Bled in autumn is an excellent choice for families who want to spend their days actively enjoying the fresh air and relaxing in the water. Strolling around the lake, visiting Bled Castle or the island, and taking leisurely excursions into the surrounding countryside all take on a very special atmosphere against a backdrop of autumn colours.

At Sava Hotels Bled (Rikli Balance Hotel, Hotel Park and Hotel Savica Garni), you can round off your activities with a swim in the Wellness Živa pool complex. The six pools, indoor water slide, and views of Lake Bled ensure you will have a lovely time even when the weather is not suitable for a full day of outdoor exploration. During the autumn school holidays, children can also look forward to adventures with Zaki the Swan. And after returning from a walk, you absolutely must not miss out on Bled’s sweet tradition – the Original Bled Cream Cake.

The sea has its own charm in autumn. The days are quieter, the temperatures are ideal for walking, and the coastal paths beckon you to explore without the summer heat. 

At St. Bernardin Resort Portorož, you can combine a stay at Grand Hotel Bernardin, Hotel Histrion, or Hotel Vile Park Premium with water-based fun at Sea Waterpark Termaris. The largest seawater swimming pool complex on the Slovenian coast is open all year round, and the resort’s location between Portorož and Piran makes it ideal for family walks along the coast. While the little ones will love the playroom at Hotel Histrion, slightly older children will enjoy the popular game room. Meanwhile, parents can relax with sea views in the panoramic saunas at Wellness Benedicta.

Salinera Resort Strunjan is perfect for families who want to experience nature up close. Situated next to the Strunjan Landscape Park among pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation, the resort’s special features include the Bioenergy Park and Wellness Syra, which offers wellness treatments with an Istrian twist. Guests also enjoy the heated seawater pool, and the resort is a perfect base for exploring the Strunjan salt pans, the cliff, and the Moon Bay.

Photo: partially AI-generated

San Simon Resort Izola is a relaxed, family-friendly holiday destination located close to the old town centre. Hotel Haliaetum offers family rooms and an indoor swimming pool, and the surrounding area is perfect for seaside walks, for exploring the fishing town, and for sampling Istrian specialities.

The main advantages of an autumn break close to home include:

• a shorter, less tiring journey, which is particularly welcome when travelling with younger children;
• more time for relaxation, as you will not be wasting time travelling;
• availability of both indoor and outdoor activities, so changeable weather will not ruin your plans;
• local cuisine and authentic experiences that introduce children to Slovenia’s diverse regions;
• holiday programmes for families, where children can have fun while parents have more time to themselves.

Sava Hotels & Resorts destinations offer a variety of activities during the school holidays, with family discounts available at individual locations. The services included vary, so always check the latest autumn school holiday offers before booking.

What are the key things to consider when planning your autumn school holidays?

• Autumn holidays are popular with families, so it is a good idea to start planning early.
• Book well in advance. Family rooms and accommodation options with direct access to the swimming pool tend to be the first to get booked up.
• Check the services included. Before making your booking, check whether the price includes half-board, swimming on the day of departure, access to saunas, entertainment programmes, and accommodation for children.
• Make a plan for both sunny and rainy weather. Choose a destination where, if the weather turns bad, you can swap walking, cycling, and sightseeing for swimming pools, wellness facilities, and creative activities.
• Avoid planning out every minute. Children will probably want to go on the slide several times, while adults might want to enjoy another sauna or a relaxed morning coffee. The best holiday moments often happen when the schedule is not completely packed.