Discover the Beauty and Culture of Slovenia: A Travel Guide
Though only half the size of Switzerland, Slovenia brims with unique attractions and experiences, and visitors will never want for entertainment in this picturesque corner of central Europe. The country is sandwiched between Italy, Croatia, Hungary and Austria, and enjoys a coastline on the Adriatic Sea to the southwest. Its 2,000 hours of sunshine a year are more than enough to sample all that this gem of country has to offer. Drawcards range from primeval forests and thermal springs to the mysterious Karst limestone plateau caves, and a lively and architecturally beautiful capital.
The vibrant capital of Ljubljana sports a mixed heritage of Baroque, Renaissance and Art Nouveau architecture. After belonging to the Austro-Hungarian Empire for many centuries, the city exudes an old-world charm and atmosphere not lost on those who visit its characterful streets, which are perfect for exploring by foot or bicycle.
Whether relaxing on the beach or skiing down alpine slopes, exploring the country’s subterranean wonders or relaxing at a lavish casino, visitors to Slovenia can enjoy countless amazing and diverse activities in the space of one short holiday.
An up-and-coming European holiday hub, travellers are strongly urged to check out Slovenia before it is forever changed by the inevitable effects of mass tourism.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language of Slovenia is Slovene. Italian and Hungarian are also spoken in some communities.
- Passport/Visa:
The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The euro (EUR) is the official currency, which is divided into 100 cents. Banks offer the best exchange rates for cash. Banking hours are generally 9am to 5pm during the week, with some banks closing for a lunch hour at midday. Numerous bureaux de change are open outside banking hours throughout the country. Major ATMs are readily available in major cities; credit cards are widely accepted by hotels, restaurants, and shops.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin attachment plugs are most common.
Overview
Slovenia’s attractions are many and varied, with enough historical sites, cultural curiosities, and outdoor activities to excite any traveller. Visitors can appreciate the peaceful country’s natural beauty and diversity as they sunbathe on the Adriatic coast, go skiing in the Alps, or wander through ancient forests and fertile valleys.
Adventurous visitors can explore the wonders of subterranean Slovenia in the Postojna and Skocjan Caves, and can enjoy numerous outdoor pursuits, such as rafting, canyoning, horseback riding, and kayaking, while Triglav National Park is ideal for hiking and mountaineering.
It’s worth soaking up Slovenia’s rich heritage in lively Ljubljana, the country’s capital, or in one of the smaller towns, such as well-preserved Piran on the coast, or one of the oldest towns in Slovenia, Ptuj. Travellers can learn about the country’s history and culture in various museums and admire the mix of architectural styles evident in the old town centres, majestic palaces, and magnificent castles, such as the Bled, Ljubljana, and Predjama strongholds.
Visitors can also explore the verdant Vipava Valley, where they will find delectable but underappreciated wines to accompany excellent traditional cuisine. Hosting a wealth of events and festivals each year, Slovenia is full of character and culture, and travellers should have no problem finding locals willing to share it with them.
Climate in Slovenia
Slovenia has a Mediterranean climate on the coast, and a continental climate with mild to hot summers and cold winters in the plateaus and valleys to the east. Most of Slovenia’s annual rainfall occurs during spring in the interior regions away from the coast. Winters are cold, particularly along the eastern part of the country, and in the Slovenian Alps, which are often covered in snow during the winter period. The Slovenian coastline has a sub-Mediterranean climate while the interior regions have a continental climate with chilly winters and hot summers.
Health Notes when travelling to Slovenia
Travel insurance for medical treatment is recommended. Slovenia has a reciprocal health agreement with most EU countries, providing emergency healthcare on the same terms as Slovenian nationals. EU travellers should take a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance.
Safety Notes when travelling to Slovenia
There are very few risks involved in travel to Slovenia but sensible precautions are still advised. Travellers should guard their valuables from pickpockets and petty thieves, lock their cars and avoid protests, strikes and other public demonstrations. A copy of their passports or some other form of identification should be carried at all times.
Customs in Slovenia
The majority of the population is Roman Catholic and visitors should respect religious customs. Penalties for drug offences can be severe in Slovenia. A copy of one’s passport or other form of identification should be carried at all times.
Duty Free in Slovenia
Travellers to Slovenia from within the European Union may import the following goods duty-free: 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, and one kilogram tobacco; 10 litres spirits, 20 litres fortified wine or liqueur, 90 litres wine (no more than 60 litres sparkling wine), 110 litres beer.
Visitors from non-EU countries who are 17 and older may import up to 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250g tobacco. In addition, one litre spirits, or two litres fortified wine, liqueur or sparkling wine, as well as four litres wine and 16 litres beer will not be taxed. Visitors are also restricted to 50ml of perfume or 250ml of eau de toilette, and medicinal products for personal use. Other goods up to the value of €430 (€150 for those under 15 years old) will not be taxed.
Doing Business in Slovenia
Business etiquette in Slovenia is similar to the rest of Western Europe. Men and women should dress conservatively in formal business suits. Shaking hands with both men and women is the norm and it’s considered polite to greet women first. Business cards are often exchanged after introductions, with Slovenians usually referred to by their title and surname. Business hours are 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Communication in Slovenia
The international dialling code for Slovenia is +386. Restaurants, cafes and hotels offer WiFi; travellers can purchase prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones.
Tipping in Slovenia
A 10 percent tip is expected in restaurants, hotels and by taxi drivers.
Passport/Visa Note
The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the departure date. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK passports must be valid for a minimum of three months beyond the departure date. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require a passport valid upon arrival, but no visa is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is required. Schengen “C” type visas must be valid for the visited Schengen Member State. This is specified in the “valid for” field of the visa.
Tourist Offices
Slovenian Tourist Information Centre, Ljubljana: +386 1 306 4575 or http://www.slovenia.info or https://www.slovenia.info/en
Slovenia Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 386 6601.
- In Canada:
Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 565 5781.
- In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): +44 20 7222 5700.
- In Australia:
Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 2 6290 0000.
- In South Africa:
Consulate General of the Republic of Slovenia, Cape Town, South Africa: + 27 21 970 2447.
Foreign Embassies in Slovenia
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Ljubljana: +386 1 200 5500.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Consulate, Ljubljana: +386 1 252 4444.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Ljubljana: +386 1 200 3910.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Consulate, Ljubljana: +386 1 234 8675.
- Irish Embassy
Embassy of Ireland, Ljubljana: +386 1 300 8970.
- New Zealand Embassy
Consulate of New Zealand, Ljubljana: +386 1 200 9337.
- South African Embassy
South African Honourary Consulate, Ljubljana: +386 1 200 6300.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
