To describe Slovenia as picturesque would be an understatement. Fairytale pretty might be closer to the truth. Ljubljana, the capital, is laden with decorative old churches, pretty bridges and cobbled streets. Even more pleasing to the eye, the rural areas of the country are widespread and diverse, encompassing mountains, deep pine forests and meadows bursting with a rich variety of colourful blooms. Needless to say, these terrains offer perfect prospects for hiking, and the array of established trails are impressive, winding their way through valleys and all the way up to the high mountains. The country’s only national park is Triglav National Park, within which Slovenia’s most beautiful mountains, the Julian Alps, nestle. Another notable attraction is Lake Bled and the magnificent castle that perches above it. For Lipizzaner horse aficionados, a visit to the quaint Slovenian Lipica is a must.

Getting there

Airlines operating services to Slovenia include Adria and Lufthansa. For tailor made packages, consider companies such as Just Slovenia.

Getting around

The best way to explore the heartbreakingly beautiful landscapes of Slovenia at your own pace is by car. Many leading car hire firms operate in the country. The Slovenian train service is operated by Slovenian Railways.

Local information

Language: Slovene

Time: UTC/GMT +1 hour

Climate: Due to Slovenia’s varied landscape, the climate is divided between three subgroups: alpine, continental, and Mediterranean. On average, the temperature is above 20°C in July and around 0°C in January

Tipping: A tip of 10 percent is recommended.

Duty free: If you are arriving from a non-EU country, you may import the following goods into Slovenia: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 cigarillos or 250g of tobacco; 2l of wine and 1l of spirits; 50g perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette; listed items to not exceed €175 in value.

Safety: Slovenia is not at all a crime-ridden country, but use common sense when entering crowded tourist places where pickpockets ultimately thrive.

Currency: Euro

Laws: Carry a copy of your passport at all times as a form of identification.
All foreign nationals visiting Slovenia must register with the Police within three days of arrival or risk paying a fine.

Healthcare: The EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) gives European residents access to state-provided medical treatment, but comprehensive travel insurance is advised. There are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Slovenia, but a vaccination for tick-borne encephalitis is recommended for visitors intending to spend time in the forest.

Socket type: Type C