The surroundings of Celje are known for many cultural and natural sights, of which the city of Celje, Celjska koca and Smartinsko Lake stand out the most. In the immediate vicinity of Celje is the Old Castle of Celje, which once represented the largest fortress in Slovenia.
It was built by the Counts of Vovbrzani in the first half of the 13th century. In later centuries, its image and purpose changed several times. In 1882, the Celje Museum Society was founded, which constantly strives for its restoration and the return of its former image. Today, the Old Castle of Celje is one of the most visited points in Slovenia. Celjska koca Hut under the Tolsti vrh Hill is located near Celje. It is a popular spot for a short hiking trip. From Celjska koca Hut there are beautiful views of the nearby Grmada (718m), Celje and other surroundings. The hotel and ski resort are located on the hut. There are also a summer toboggan run, tube skating and a children's playground. The modern hotel offers a varied culinary offer and the wellness. Smartinsko Lake is located near Celje. It is an attractive and increasingly popular excursion point for locals and tourists. The lake was formed in 1970 after the construction of the Loca dam on the Koprivnica stream. This solved the danger of the Savinja River flooding the city. Smartinsko Lake is one of the largest artificial lakes in Slovenia. Celje is located at the confluence of the Savinja and Voglajna rivers in the Celje basin. It is the third Slovenian city in terms of economic importance and size. It is the trade, economic, educational, traffic, cultural, health and religious center of the Lower Savinja Valley with its periphery.
The medieval settlement developed on the remains of ancient Celeia. The following attractions are located in the old town, such as the Celje's House, the National House, Prothas Mansion, the Slovene National Theatre, Hotel Europa, the Abbey Church of Saint Daniel, the Saint Mary's Church, the Regional Museum Celje, the people's Savings and loans bank.