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.
Travel to Slovenia
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.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Slovenia
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Slovenia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Slovenia, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends this vaccine only for these groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in Slovenia
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
All travelers
You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Some vaccines may also be required for travel.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Slovenia, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Slovenia, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends this vaccine only for these groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in Slovenia
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Slovenia, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Food and water standards in Slovenia are similar to those in the United States. Most travelers do not need to take special food or water precautions beyond what they normally do at home.
Although Slovenia is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Slovenia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity in the heat of the day.
If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Slovenia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Make sure there are seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Slovenia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Slovenia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
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.
Exchange rate for 1 EUR - Euro
0.00BMD Bermudan Dollar
1.00USD U.S. Dollar
0.87GBP U.K. Pound Sterling
143.38JPY Japanese Yen
1.32CAD Canadian Dollar
0.96CHF Swiss Franc
1.49AUD Australian Dollar
36.65UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
475.34KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
1,507.02LBP Lebanese Pound
4.93LYD Libyan Dinar
6.88BOB Bolivian Boliviano
126.98NPR Nepalese Rupee
0.38OMR Omani Rial
3.67QAR Qatari Rial
1.41SGD Singapore Dollar
10.70SEK Swedish Krona
6.78TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00VEF Venezuelan Bolivar
52.90DOP Dominican Peso
7.53HRK Croatian Kuna
20.03MXN Mexican Peso
655.66XOF West African CFA Franc
3.52PGK Papua New Guinean kina
1.00BSD Bahamian Dollar
2.24FJD Fiji Dollar
24.62HNL Honduran Lempira
140.42DZD Algerian Dinar
2,096.32MMK Myanma Kyat
13.00BWP Botswana Pula
3.87PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
921.20CLP Chilean Peso
404.44AMD Armenia Dram
24.53CZK Czech Koruna
19.31MDL Moldova Lei
138.73ISK Icelandic Krona
10,921.62UZS Uzbekistan Sum
3.44ILS Israeli New Sheqel
0.71JOD Jordanian Dinar
0.31KWD Kuwaiti Dinar
40.69UYU Uruguayan Peso
45.09MUR Mauritian Rupee
35.87NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
10.13NOK Norwegian Krone
4.73PLN Polish Zloty
3.75SAR Saudi Riyal
363.92LKR Sri Lanka Rupee
36.71THB Thai Baht
3.67AED U.A.E Dirham
5.21BRL Brazilian Real
4.93RON Romanian New Leu
7.84HKD Hong Kong Dollar
656.83XAF Central African CFA Franc
23,518.80VND Vietnamese Dong
142.79ARS Argentine Peso
2.71XCD East Caribbean Dollar
7.78GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
10.62MAD Moroccan Dirham
0.38BHD Bahrain Dinar
1.00PAB Panamanian Balboa
1.69AZN Azerbaijan Manat
4,413.27COP Colombian Peso
80.74KGS Kyrgyzstan Som
407.16HUF Hungarian Forint
10.23TJS Tajikistan Ruble
14,847.81IDR Indonesian Rupiah
19.40EGP Egyptian Pound
1,396.62KRW South Korean Won
6,965.59PYG Paraguayan Guaraní
4.52MYR Malaysian Ringgit
632.07CRC Costa Rican Colón
1.67NZD New Zealand Dollar
223.34PKR Pakistani Rupee
60.17RUB Russian Rouble
17.52ZAR South African Rand
3.21TND Tunisian Dinar
2.02BBD Barbadian Dollar
1.96BGN Bulgarian Lev
18.25TRY Turkish Lira
57.24PHP Philippine Peso
31.13TWD New Taiwan Dollar
427.92NGN Nigerian Naira
119.27XPF CFP Franc
10.03GHS Ghanaian Cedi
152.15JMD Jamaican Dollar
1.79ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder
1.40BND Brunei Dollar
117.26RSD Serbian Dinar
6.98CNY Chinese Yuan
7.44DKK Danish Krone
3.50TMT New Turkmenistan Manat
79.71INR Indian Rupee
Exchange Rate for U.S. Dollar to Euro
1 USD = 1.00 EUR
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to Euro
1 CAD = 0.76 EUR
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to Euro
1 GBP = 1.15 EUR
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to Euro
1 AUD = 0.67 EUR
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to Euro
1 NZD = 0.60 EUR
Exchange Rate for South African Rand to Euro
1 ZAR = 0.06 EUR
Ljubljana Joze Pucnik Airport (LJU) Ljubljana Joze Pucnik Airport http://www.lju-airport.si/en/
Location: Ljubljana The airport is situated 16 miles (26km) north of
Ljubljana centre.
Time: GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to
the last Sunday in October).
Contacts:
Tel: +386 4 20 61 000.
Getting to the city:
There are frequent bus connections between the airport and city,
the journey taking about an hour. Taxis are available in front of
the terminal building. A taxi into central Ljubljana generally
takes between 25 and 35 minutes.
Car rental:
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Atet,
Avis, Budget, Dollar, Europcar, Hertz, Avant Car, Sixt, Agio and
Enterprise.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available outside the terminal building.
Facilities:
Facilities at the airport include a bank, a bureau de change,
restaurants and bars, shops (including duty-free), a tourist
agency, a business lounge and a post office.
Parking:
Open-air and undercover parking are available in the multi-level
car park.
Overview of the Attractions in Slovenia
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.
National Museum of Slovenia Ljubljana
Architect Joze Plecnik is largely
responsible for the city of Ljubljana being extremely neat and
well-planned, with his insistence on classical lines and uniform
dimensions. The renowned architect's home and studio is open to the
public a few days a week, furnished and equipped just as he left
it. However, his influence is visible everywhere in the city and
can be admired at sites such as the wide Shoemaker's Bridge and the
colonnaded market beside the river.
Website: http://www.nms.si
Plečnik House Ljubljana
Architect Joze Plecnik is largely responsible for the city of
Ljubljana being as neat and well planned as it is, with his
insistence on classical lines and uniform dimensions. The renowned
architect's home and studio is open to the public a few days a
week, furnished and equipped as he left it. However, his influence
is everywhere in the city and can be admired at sites like the wide
Shoemaker's Bridge and the colonnaded market beside the river.
Address: Karunova ulica 4, Trnovo
Ljubljana Castle Ljubljana
The imposing Ljubljana Castle towers over the city, offering
spectacular views of the Ljubljanica River and old town skyline,
with the distant Alps providing a stunning backdrop. A steep
cobbled street winds its way from the old town to the medieval
fortress, which dates back to the 11th century. The castle complex
includes a museum, restaurant and chapel, with access to the castle
provided by a scenic funicular ride. Visitors can admire the view
from the castle's impressive tower, stroll through the tranquil
grounds, learn about Slovenian history at one of the museum
exhibitions, or attend one of the many cultural events hosted at
the fortress.
Dedicated to the patron saint of sailors, the magnificent
Cathedral of St Nicholas is built in the Baroque style and dates
back to the early 18th century. It was renovated and had
beautifully carved bronze doors added for the Pope's visit in 1996;
the doors depict the development of Christianity in Slovenia and
give way to a richly ornate interior below the impressive cupola
and stunning Giulio Quaglio frescoes. Other artworks include Angelo
Putti's statues of four Bishops of Emona, Putti's painting of Dean
Janez Anton Dolnicar, and Francesco Robba's altar angels.
Website: lj-stolnica.rkc.si
Ljubljana Zoo Ljubljana
The quaint Ljubljana Zoo is situated in a forested area just a
short walk from the city centre. The small size of the zoo gives
visitors a more intimate experience, with a range of animals that
includes wild cats, lions, sea lions, giraffes, elephants and over
100 other species. Feeding times and training exhibitions are
staged throughout the day, a schedule for which is available on the
website. The zoo offers a welcome break from all the cultural and
historical attractions of Ljubljana, providing family holidaymakers
a wonderful way to entertain the children.
Website: http://www.zoo-ljubljana.si
Tivoli Park Ljubljana
Tivoli Park is a massive wooded area in Ljubljana and covers an
impressive five square kilometres. The park is the perfect place
for a picnic or evening stroll, boasting a number of ponds,
playgrounds, sporting facilities, flowerbeds, grassy patches and
fountains. This popular spot allows visitors to relax and really
admire the beauty of wonderful Ljubljana. Tivoli Park is also a
wonderful place to take the kids, allowing them to run around and
let off some steam.
Lake Bled Ljubljana
One of the most popular attractions in
Slovenia, the charming town of Bled is located just 45 minutes'
drive from the capital Ljubljana and is the base for many
travellers in Slovenia. A town with gorgeous surrounds and an
ancient history, Bled's foremost attraction is the glacial Lake
Bled: a cobalt-blue expanse of water with a forested island in the
middle, which is accessible by traditional rowboats known as
pletnas. Overlooking the lake is the photogenic Bled Castle, while
the island itself is home to the Pilgrimage Church of the
Assumption of Mary, one of Slovenia's most impressive sights. Bled
also offers a range of outdoor sporting activities, such as
golfing, fishing and horse riding, while the nearby Triglav
National Park has fantastic walking and hiking trails.
Postojna Cave Ljubljana
Slovenia's Postojna Cave is the
most-visited cave complex in Europe and has welcomed nearly 200
million visitors to gape at its incredible karst formations,
cavernous chambers and interesting collection of cave art animals.
Stretching for 13 miles (20km), one of the best things about
visiting the astounding Postojna Cave Complex is its top-class
infrastructure: the cave is well-lit and visitors access the
underground walkway by train. Guided tours of the cave last about
90 minutes, during which visitors are treated to a wealth of
glittering calcite formations, stalactites and stalagmites. The
Postojna Cave is also home to a subterranean concert hall with
celebrated acoustics, and hosts regular summer concerts of
classical music.
Website: http://www.postojnska-jama.si
Triglav National Park Ljubljana
The only national park in Slovenia, Triglav
National Park is named after the highest peak in the country and
the Julian Alps: Mount Triglav. Appearing on the Slovenian flag,
the mountain is a symbol of national identity.
Its craggy, snow-covered summit provides a
wonderful backdrop to a holiday spent exploring quiet forests and
hiking to pristine waterfalls. The trail that leads out to the
240-foot (78m) Slap Savica Waterfall is particularly popular,
attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all over the continent.
Slovenia is fast becoming the go-to
destination for skiing in Europe, with Triglav National Park
providing some easy and affordable alternatives to those found in
France and Switzerland. Vogel is probably the most popular resort,
its powder descents surrounded by untouched sprawls of beautiful
mountain forest, while there are also runs in the nearby towns of
Kranjska Gora and Krvavec.
Triglav National Park is also perfectly set
up for mountain bikers and keen mountaineers keen to tackle its
rocky slopes. The park offers affordable camping, and its close
proximity to Italy and Austria makes it an attractive option for
budget-conscious travellers wishing to experience the Alps.
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