travel info slovenia

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Slovenia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

Slovenia is one of Europe’s least-visited destinations, which is crazy to me because it’s incredible! Known for its mountains, ski resorts, fabulous wine, extensive cave systems, incredible food, and postcard-perfect lakes, Slovenia offers all the beauty of Western Europe — but with a fraction of the crowds and for a fraction of the costs.

Ljubljana, the country’s vibrant capital, is considered one of the continent’s greenest and most livable cities while Lake Bled, Slovenia’s Insta-famous hotspot, is just as stunning in person as it is in photographs.

Inhabited since prehistory, the Romans established numerous outposts around present-day Slovenia. The region was later annexed by various powers, including the Holy Roman Empire and the Hapsburgs. Slovenia saw heavy casualties during World War I and was seized by Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy during World War II. After the war, the region was part of Yugoslavia until Slovenia (and Croatia) gained independence in 1991.

Today, this often-overlooked country is a favorite of hikers and history buffs, owing to its rugged landscape and contentious past. There’s a slew of outdoor activities here, making it the perfect destination for active travelers looking for less-crowded landscapes.

This travel guide to Slovenia can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this incredibly undervisited country.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Slovenia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in slovenia.

1. Wander Ljubljana

Ljubljana (pronouced lyoo-blyah-nuh) is a city built on myth and legend. According to Greek mythology, Jason and the Argonauts slayed a dragon here. Wander around the old town, gaze at the Baroque architecture, and climb the clock tower to take in the view.

2. Visit Piran

Piran is one of the most picturesque cities on the Adriatic coast. Its crown jewel is its old town, which is one of the best-preserved historical centers in the Mediterranean. Take in the historic Venetian architecture and relax in one of the many plazas.

3. Enjoy the views at Lake Bled

One of the most popular destinations in Slovenia, Lake Bled attracts thousands of visitors every year. Its main draw is the island in the middle of the lake, which is home to a 17th-century church. Visit the nearby Bled Castle overlooking the lake too (admission is 13 EUR).

4. Do some water sports

Slovenia has 7 sizeable lakes. From stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking to rappelling down waterfalls, there’s something for every fitness level and interest. Expect to pay around 15-20 EUR for a SUP or kayak rental and 65 EUR for a canyoning trip.

5. Go wine tasting

Wine lovers visiting Slovenia should head towards the Vipava Valley. Tucked beside the Italian border, the mild climate and closeness to the sea makes for ideal winemaking conditions. Expect to pay at least 150 EUR for a full day wine tour.

Other Things to See and Do in Slovenia

1. visit predjama castle.

Located one hour south of the capital, Predjama Castle was originally constructed in the 13th century. It is now a Renaissance-style castle with a Gothic façade, built right into the side of a cliff. (Fun fact: a Slovenian robber baron once called the castle home.) There’s also a “secret” tunnel that leads to the nearby Postojna Cave. The cave stretches over 24,000 meters and is open to the public (it’s the second-largest cave system in the country). Admission to the castle is 13.80 EUR, the cave is 25.80 EUR, and a combined ticket is 35.70 EUR.

2. Go hiking in Triglav National Park

The Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park. Opened in 1981 and spanning 880 square kilometers (310 square miles), the park is named after the country’s tallest mountain. Thanks to its mountains, hills, lakes, waterfalls, springs, and rivers, the park is a magnet for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can also kayak, raft, skydive, parasail, and even scuba dive here. It’s a beautiful park and well worth a visit. To extend your time in the park, you can stay overnight in one of the mountain huts (from 80 EUR) or the lodge (from 26 EUR). It’s free to visit the park, though some attractions require small fees to visit (generally 2-5 EUR).

3. Tour Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle was built in the 16th-century and boasts some of the best views of the city. Perched on Castle Hill above the city, you can take a self-guided tour and wander the grounds yourself or take a guided tour to learn more about the castle and its history. Inside the castle are several permanent exhibitions on its history, the Museum of Puppetry, an escape room, and a café and restaurant. Admission is 13 EUR and includes a guided tour and a return funicular ticket (since the castle is up a hill).

4. Hang out in Velika Planina

Located northeast of the medieval town of Kamnik, Velika Planina translates to ‘Big Pasture Plateau’ — and that is pretty much what it is. This huge, empty plateau is dotted by a handful of small traditional wooden houses surrounded by the towering snow-capped Alps. From June through September, the houses are used by local shepherds whose livestock graze on the plateau, creating a seasonal village open to tourists. Be sure to sample some of the amazing cheeses and local dishes (like barley stew or hota , a bean and sauerkraut hotpot). To get here you either need to drive to the top or take a 10-minute gondola lift ride from Kamniska Bistrica, a nearby village, which costs 17 EUR for a roundtrip ticket.

5. Tour the Skocjan Caves

Located one hour from Ljubljana, this enormous cavern system spans over 1,000 acres. It’s considered one of the most important cave systems in the world as it is one of the largest, home to a unique ecosystem. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times and there are underground streams and rivers, massive stone formations, and a 47-meter-high bridge you can cross. The caves have been in use for millennia, appearing in written sources as far back as the 2nd-century BCE. They are awesome! Guided tours start from 18 EUR. You can also arrange day trips from Ljubljana.

6. Go skiing

For the best skiing, head to Vogel in the Lake Bohinj area. It offers both downhill slopes and cross-country trails. The regular ski season lasts from December all the way until May. Expect to pay around 10-30 EUR for a lift pass. You can also get multi-day passes that bring down the price per day. Osovje, Luce, and Dole Pri Litiji are some of the most affordable places to ski if you’re on a budget.

7. Visit the Rogatec Open-Air Museum

The Rogatec Open-Air Museum is a small but fascinating living museum that highlights what life was like in rural Slovenia in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Located near the border with Croatia , you’ll learn about everything from basket weaving to blacksmithing to how livestock was kept and managed. Admission is 3 EUR. It’s a bit cheesy but if you have time (or are looking for a family-friendly activity), stop by!

8. Hike to Lovrenc Lakes

For an easy and beautiful hike that won’t take much time, head to Lovrenc Lakes. Located near Pohorje in the northeast, this one-hour trail begins at the Rogla Ski Center. Follow the wooden footpath that leads to the middle of the bog where there’s a viewing tower to climb for stunning views over across the marsh and forest. There are longer full-day trails and mountain bike paths too. Admission is free.

9. Do some underground cycling

Underground biking is one of the more unusual experiences that you may not find anywhere else. Near Mezica in the north, cyclists can explore the Slovenian underground by taking a tour underneath Mount Peca via its disused lead and zinc mine shafts. There are 5 kilometers (3 miles) of underground trails that you can explore with tours costing 40-50 EUR. You can also kayak sections of the underground mine too (tickets are the same price).

10. Drink beer from a fountain

The only beer fountain in the world is in the Slovenian town of Žalec. Located in the hop-growing capital of Slovenia, the Green Gold Fountain opened in 2016. Choose between six different beers to taste (including a green beer specially brewed just for the fountain). Simply buy a special mug for 8 EUR and sample each of the six beers on tap in the fountain. The fountain operates from April to October. Continue your beer adventure by visiting the nearby Eco-Museum of Hop-Growing and Brewing Industry in Slovenia.

11. Take a food tour

Slovenia travel costs.

Accommodation – Hostel dorms with 4-6-beds cost 16-22 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and self-catering facilities are common. For a private room, expect to pay 40-50 EUR per night.

Budget hotels start at 40 EUR per night. Many budget hotels include free breakfast (but not all do) so if you’re on a budget be sure to book a hotel that includes free breakfast.

Airbnb is another budget-friendly option in Slovenia, with private rooms starting at 35 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 70 EUR per night (though prices average double that if you don’t book in advance).

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds are available around the country. Prices start around 12 EUR for a basic plot without electricity. Wild camping is illegal.

Food – Slovenian cuisine is influenced by Italian, Austrian, and Balkan cooking. Spicy sausage, goulash, and schnitzel make regular appearances and are easy to find in most restaurants. Burek , a flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese, is a local favorite for when you’re on the go. Other popular dishes are žlikrofi (potato-filled ravioli) and žganci (a porridge served with sauerkraut). On the coast, there’s plenty of mussels, fish, and squid.

An inexpensive dish at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 8-11 EUR, and a pizza costs about the same. International food, such as Thai and Indian cuisine, can only be found in the capital. Expect to pay between 7-13 EUR for a main dish.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs 6 EUR for a combo meal, though you can get a doner kebab for around 3 EUR. A beer costs 2.50-3 EUR, a glass of wine is 3-5 EUR, and a cappuccino or latte costs 2 EUR. Burek , the flaky pastry mentioned above, can be found in cafes around the country for 2-3 EUR.

If you want to splash out, a three-course meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 15-18 EUR, including a drink. Prices are closer to 25 EUR for a steak dinner with a drink.

Some of my favorite places to eat and drink were Restaurant Manna, Vino & Ribe, and My Dumplings of Slovenia.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 30-40 EUR for basic staples like meat, potatoes, cheese, pasta, and seasonal produce.

Backpacking Slovenia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to pay around 50 EUR per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, doing free activities like walking tours and hikes, and using local transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of about 120 EUR, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out at budget-friendly for most meals, drink a bit more, do some castle tours, go cycling or kayaking, and take some taxis to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of 225 EUR per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, take taxis everywhere, do as many activities as you want, rent a car, and book some private guided tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Slovenia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Slovenia is one of the cheaper countries in Europe. If you’re trying to save money, it’s easy to do so, especially since most of the outdoor activities are free. Here are some ways to save money in Slovenia:

• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are a fun and budget-friendly way to learn about a new destination. Ljubljana Free Tour has a free tour that covers all the major sites in the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Get the Ljubljana Card – This city card grants entrance to 20+ museums, a free guided tour, a trip on the funicular, a boat cruise, free public transportation, and a half-day bike rental. The card comes in 24, 48, and 72-hour versions costing 31-45 EUR respectively.
• Ride Flixbus – Flixbus is an affordable way to get around the country (and region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for overnight and long-haul bus journeys.
• Cook your own meals – If you’re on a tight budget, book accommodation that has a kitchen. Buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, but it keeps your budget intact
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing (or a similar sharing economy site) is a great way to not only save money but you’ll meet knowledgeable locals who can help you better understand the city and its people.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major cities in Slovenia are quite walkable, so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few extra euros.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Bring a reuseable water bottle – The tap water in Slovenia is safe to drink so bring a reusable bottle to avoid buying single-use plastic. LifeStraw makes bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe (it’s especially helpful if you’re out hiking).

Where to Stay in Slovenia

Slovenia has some great hostels in all the popular backpacker spots around the country. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Slovenia:

• Hostel Vrba (Ljubljana)
• Aladin hostel (Ljubljana)
• Proteus (Postojna)
• Hostel Lukna (Mojstrana)
• Hosteller (Bled)
• Adriatic Piran (Piran)
• Uni Youth Hostel (Maribor)

How to Get Around Slovenia

Public transportation – Public transportation prices vary by city but expect to pay around 1.20 EUR for a standard adult ticket.

Bus – Flixbus is one of the most budget-friendly ways to travel around Slovenia (and into neighboring countries as well). The 90-minute journey from Ljubljana to Bled is 5-9 EUR while the 75-minute bus ride from Ljubljana to Koper is 8-13 EUR. The 2.5-hour ride from Ljubljana to Zagreb, Croatia costs 12-18 EUR.

Train – Trains connecting Slovenia with other European cities run daily. Thanks to Slovenia being part of the Eurail network, it can be a great budget way to travel both internationally and domestically. This post has everything you need to know about the Eurail Pass .

Slovenia Railways is the sole company operating domestic trains. You can find the full timetable and pricing on their website. It is always better to buy your ticket in advance as prices can double if you buy them last minute.

The 2.5-hour train ride from Ljubljana to Koper costs 11 EUR while the hour-long trip from Ljubljana to Bled is 5 EUR. The trip to Zagreb, Croatia from Ljubljana takes around 2.5 hours and costs 24 EUR while the 3.5-hour journey to Graz, Austria is 13-18 EUR.

To find routes and prices for trains around Europe, use Trainline .

Fly – There are no domestic flights in Slovenia as it’s a small country.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 25-30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Be sure to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as you need one for the rental.

When to Go to Slovenia

While it is a small country, Slovenia has a very diverse climate in its three distinct regions. In the mountains of the north, there’s an alpine climate, the central lowlands have a more continental climate, and the west has a more Mediterranean climate.

Summer is the busiest and most popular time to visit. From June-August, the weather is much more reliable though prices rise slightly and there are far more tourists around (especially at Lake Bled). Expect daily highs around 23°C (73°F).

To beat the crowds, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season — either April-May or September-October. The weather is warm enough to hike and explore but you won’t have to compete with the growing number of visitors.

Unless you plan on skiing, it is probably best to skip the winter months. Slovenia gets cold and temperatures can drop below freezing.

How to Stay Safe in Slovenia

Slovenia is not just one of the safest places to visit in Europe — it’s one of the safest countries in the entire world. Ranking 6th on the Global Peace Index, Slovenia is a country where you can travel freely without any noteworthy concerns for your safety (the United States, for reference, is ranked 117th).

Of course, you still want to use some common sense. Don’t flash any valuables and keep an eye out for pickpockets in busy areas like public buses or bus/train stations. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in the vehicle overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

While scams here are rare, to avoid getting ripped off, read my post on common travel scams to avoid.

Always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, stop the cab and get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, get out of there.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Slovenia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Slovenia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

The 8 best places to discover in Slovenia

Jan 5, 2022 • 9 min read

Lake Bled and its island church is perhaps Slovenia’s most iconic image © Brusonja / Getty Images

For proof of the idiom “good things come in small packages,” one only needs to visit Slovenia. In an area about half the size of Switzerland, this Central European country packs in mountain ranges, an Adriatic coastline, fashionable cities, rivers, lakes and perched villages.  

Better still, the country, which takes pride in its avant-garde sustainable-tourism philosophy, is actually all the easier to take in because of its compact nature. In one day, travelers can easily walk in the Alps, kayak a glacial waterway, drive to one of several world-class winemaking regions, and then take a dip in the sea. At the moment, you may not be able to name multiple Slovenian cities, regions or landmarks, but that’s a positive. Slovenia — hiding in plain sight — is waiting to be discovered.  

See spectacular architecture in Ljubljana

All roads in Slovenia lead to its capital, and not just because it’s situated in the center of the country. Named the European Green Capital in 2016, this city of nearly 300,000 is a nexus buzzing with active, cycle-riding residents, alternative culture and eclectic restaurants, museums and cafes. However, the setting alone is worth a visit: Every square has a story told in a language of historical epochs and stunning architecture. 

Start your investigation of Slovenia’s biggest city at the fairytale-like  Ljubljana Castle , a 16th-century hilltop fortification. Either make the short, inclined trek along a clearly marked footpath or take the funicular. Once there, check out a range of attractions, such as the Museum of Puppetry or the Exhibition of Slovenian History. Back down in the Old Town you will, in rapid succession, come across the baroque Cathedral of St Nicholas , built on 13th-century foundations; the main square, Prešernov Trg , and its bright-pink 17th-century Franciscan Church of the Annunciation ; and a series of bridges straddling the Ljubljanica River. 

Although all of the river crossings are unique, the Triple Bridge , designed by local superhero architect Jože Plečnik, stands out. Take a closer look, and you’ll realize just how many of the city’s architectural gems were the product of Plečnik’s brilliance during the first half of the 20th century. Don’t leave Ljubljana without admiring his  National & University Library or taking a guided tour of  Plečnik House , his home and studio for more than 35 years.

Peel back layers of history in Maribor

The truth is, Maribor could fit into several “best of” categories. Slovenia’s second largest city, it anchors the country's Podravska wine region, and it also has a thriving gourmet scene, including the Michelin-starred restaurant  Hiša Denk , about nine miles north of the center. Plus, because it sits on the Drava River, it's a hub for adventure activities like rafting, cycling and hiking. But all that said, Maribor is, at its heart, a treasure chest of historic layers.

Settled time and again during the Stone Age, Celtic period and Roman era, the city dates back to the Middle Ages, with a plethora of sites for history buffs. First, stop in at  Maribor Regional Museum to get an overview, then walk just north of town to visit the remains of the 12th-century castle known today as  Piramida . Back in the center is Glavni Trg , which was the market square during the medieval period. Here, you’ll see the 16th-century Town Hall before sitting for a glass of wine at the Old Vine House , where the world’s oldest producing vine — more than 400 years old — climbs the facade and still produces vino. 

Plan for outdoor adventure in Bovec

At the edge of Triglav National Park , squeezed between the Julian Alps and the crystal-clear turquoise Soča River, Bovec is a haven for nearly any mountain or water activity imaginable. There is a holiday’s worth of sites surrounding the country’s adventure capital, and by enjoying them, you can scratch both your adrenaline- and culture-seeking itches.

Start your journey by cycling approximately 7km (4.3 miles) southwest of Bovec, along the Soča River, to the  Boka Waterfall , Slovenia’s highest falls. Then head in the other direction: you'll pedal next to the Koritnica River for 4.5km (2.8 miles) until you reach  Kluže Fortress , a 15th-century wooden fort that was upgraded to a stone version, wedged between peaks and gorges, in the 18th century. Make sure to take in the exhibition describing the area’s importance along the front lines of World War I. 

Jump to the next excitement level and explore the area’s extremes. Start with an advanced kayak session by paddling both the Soča and Koritnica Rivers (a permit is needed). Then take a gondola ride to  Kanin Ski Centre , the country’s highest ski area at around 2300m (7546ft).

Have a romantic holiday at Lake Bled

Whether you know it or not, you’ve likely seen Lake Bled before. The tectonic glacial lake and its island church — floating on the still water as if placed there centuries ago to fulfill future photographers’ dreams — is perhaps Slovenia’s most iconic image, and the cover shot of many articles and guidebooks. The logical reason for this is clear the moment you see it: Even in two dimensions, this magical place pulls at your heartstrings and touches emotions you were unprepared to confront. When you see it in person with that special someone by your side, get ready for fireworks.

Luckily, there is ample opportunity to stroll or float hand-in-hand in this snowglobe-worthy setting. Start with a boat ride to Bled Island , where churches have been built and rebuilt for more than a millennium; today’s structure is the 17th-century baroque Church of the Assumption . Vows renewed, head to  Bled Castle , which rests on a bluff overlooking the lake. Dating from the early 11th century, the fortress was rebuilt after an earthquake in the 16th century. No romantic outing here is complete without an easy hike to Vintgar Gorge , around 4km (2.5 miles) from the town of Bled. Boardwalks and bridges take lovers (and anyone else) on an intimate journey across the magical 1600m (5249ft) ravine.

Experience local culture at Lake Bohinj

Though small, Slovenia has a surprising amount of regionality, and every area exudes pride about the characteristics that make it unique. When visiting Lake Bohinj — the country’s largest natural lake, tucked into the Julian Alps in Triglav National Park — you will find a community that takes every opportunity to share the authenticity of their beloved landscape, food and history. Give into the temptation to sip on whatever is handed you and just listen.

Lake Bohinj is big. At more than four kilometers in length, the area is more than just a body of water – it's a collection of settlements within the Bohinj Municipality. Before eating or buying souvenirs, look for the Bohinjsko (from Bohinj) label signifying it is locally produced. Then, gobble down or purchase a range of must-haves including cheeses, honey, kitchenwares, jam, beer and even gin. 

In the community of Stara Fužina, get a firmer grip on the local lifestyle at the Alpine Dairy Farming Museum , where exhibits explain how farm-to-table is more than just a recent trend here. In late spring, the International Wildflower Festival is a perfect event to experience the Bohinj from the roots up. And when you are ready to travel to or from the municipality, head to the train station in the town of Bohinjska Bistrica for an unforgettable journey through alpine tunnels on tracks laid by the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Soak up the sun in Piran

Such is the bounty of Slovenia that you can play in the mountains in the morning and lounge on the beach in the afternoon. When that urge strikes — and it likely will — Piran is the spot to soak up the rays, splash in the Adriatic and discover a unique destination on the country’s 47km (29.2 miles) of coastline.

Often called the most beautiful town along Slovenia’s Adriatic shore, Piran predates the Romans, but it got its present look during the Middle Ages, when it was part of the Venetian Empire. Get a panoramic overview of this intoxicating town by climbing the 147 stairs to the top of the bell tower , located next to the 17th-century baroque Cathedral of St George . From here, you can see three countries.

Come down from your perch to Tartinijev Trg (Tartini Square), the nerve center of town before heading to the Mediadom Pyrhani , 150m (492ft) away, to get a multimedia take on Piran history. Don't forget the reason you’ve raced down here from the mountains: A 15-minute walk takes you to Fiesa Beach for your plunge into the sea. 

Explore esoteric interests in the Karst Region

The Karst Region , which takes its name from its porous, limestone topography, acts as a synapse between Slovenia’s northern alpine delights and the Adriatic coast in the southwest. This compact area produces outstanding prosciutto, cheese and wines – such as the ones from Čotar Vineyard in the town of Komen – as well as unexpected pleasures both above and below ground.

In the town of Lipica, take a tour of the Lipizzaner stud farm , where the famous white horses have been bred for more than four centuries. Then take a deep subterranean dive into the Škocjan Caves , a Unesco World Heritage site with some 6km (3.7 miles) of tunnels, passages and chambers filled with enough stalagmites and stalactites to excite any spelunker.

Drink wine in Goriska Brda

Straddling the Italian border, Goriška brda (or simply “Brda”) has been a driving force in Slovenia’s growing reputation as a top wine destination . From one of the many perched villages scattered across the fertile hillsides, you’ll see a seemingly endless expanse of vineyards disappearing over the horizon. A visit here, however, is about more than just observation. To understand the passion brought to every bottle, you’ve got to fill your glass with the area’s liquid gold.

Start in the village of Dobrovo with a tour of the cellars at  Klet Brda wine cooperative, where you’ll have the chance to sample 12 of its finest labels. To compare and contrast, head to  Simčič Winery , in the village of Ceglo, to taste some of the country’s best vino. Make sure to ask for their Rebula, the region’s signature white variety. 

Slovenia   is on our 2022 Best of Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations  click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

You might also like:  Slovenia's new green route is perfect for independent travelers 6 reasons to visit Slovenia, a gem at the heart of Europe A perfect weekend in Ljubljana  

Explore related stories

Mar 14, 2024 • 16 min read

Experience some of Europe's best wildlife, nature and landscapes this summer at these national parks.

Jan 16, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Nov 9, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 20, 2023 • 8 min read

Aug 30, 2023 • 6 min read

May 17, 2023 • 12 min read

Dec 15, 2022 • 2 min read

Aug 18, 2022 • 6 min read

Jul 22, 2022 • 7 min read

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Culture
• 4.3 Climate
• 4.4 Terrain
• 4.5 Visitor information
• 6.1 Entry requirements
• 6.3 By plane
• 6.4 By train
• 6.5.1 From Austria
• 6.5.2 From Italy
• 6.6 By boat
• 7.1 By train
• 10.2 Prices
• 10.3 Tipping
• 11.1 Cuisine
• 11.2 Places to eat
• 11.3 Dietary restrictions
• 12.1 Coffee and tea
• 12.4 Spirits
• 13.1 Hostels
• 13.2 Tourist farms
• 13.3 Camping
• 16 Stay safe
• 17 Stay healthy
• 19.1 Telephone
• 19.2 Internet
• 19.3.1 Postal rates

Slovenia ( Slovenian : Slovenija ) is a country in central Europe that lies in the eastern Alps , at the northern end of the Adriatic Sea. It is sometimes considered to be a Balkan country. Despite its small size, Slovenia has a surprising variety of terrain, ranging from the beaches of the Mediterranean to the peaks of the Julian Alps and the rolling hills of the south. Slovenia is also home to some of the finest scenery in the "New Europe". The transition from socialism to the European common market economy has gone well and serves as a model for other nations on the same track to follow.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

• 46.051389 14.506111 1 Ljubljana – The picturesque capital
• 46.366667 14.116667 2 Bled – A romantic mountain lake complete with its own castle and island
• 46.229092 15.264129 3 Celje – One of Slovenia's oldest cities
• 45.547543 13.730657 4 Koper/Capodistria – A lovely Venetian city, largest on Slovenian coastline
• 46.55 15.633333 5 Maribor – Slovenia's second largest city
• 45.966667 13.65 6 Nova Gorica – The city on the border with Italy
• 45.527108 13.568531 7 Piran/Pirano – A gorgeous Venetian port
• 45.77435 14.21528 8 Postojna – The site of the gigantic Postojna caves
• 46.418611 15.871389 9 Ptuj – One of Slovenia's oldest cities

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 46.3831 13.8497 2 Triglav National Park – Home to national symbol Mt. Triglav and mythical golden chamois Zlatorog.
• 45.994444 13.641389 3 Soča Valley – Soča river, with its emerald colour, is one of the most beautiful European Alpine rivers.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Slavic ancestors of Slovenians came from eastern parts of Europe and inhabited territory north of present Slovenian territory in the 6th century AD. They established a state called Caranthania ( Karantanija in Slovene), which was an early example of parliamentary democracy in Europe. The ruler ( knez in Slovene) was elected by popular vote. The Caranthanians were later defeated by Bavarians and Franks, who subjugated them. They were Christianized, but they preserved many rituals of their pagan religion, and above all, they preserved their native language. The Slovene lands were part of the Holy Roman Empire and Austria under the Habsburg dynasty until 1918, when the Slovenes joined the Serbs and Croats in forming a new south-Slavic state ruled by Serbian Karađorđević dynasty called the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenians ("Kraljevina Srbov, Hrvatov in Slovencev" in Slovene), renamed Yugoslavia in 1929. In WWII, Slovenia was invaded and occupied by Germans, Italians and Hungarians, leading to a parallel civil war between pro-communist liberation forces (Partizani) and axis-sponsored anti-communist reactionary factions ("Belogardisti" and Domobranci). The victory of the Allies and consequently the Partizans resulted in a violent mass exodus of those who had fought with the occupying forces, including most of the native German and Italian minorities.

After World War II, Slovenia became a republic in the reestablished Yugoslavia, which made small territorial gains from Italy. Although communist, Yugoslavia left the Soviet bloc in 1948.

Slovenia was already more economically advanced than nations behind the Iron Curtain prior to European integration. Dissatisfied with the exercise of power in Belgrade, the Slovenes gained their independence in 1991 with minimal bloodshed. Following independence and the transition to democracy, Slovenia experienced rapid economic growth, and is today widely regarded as having advanced to developed country status, having been classified as an "advanced economy" by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) since 2007, the only former Yugoslav country to have this distinction as of 2021. In 2004, Slovenia joined the European Union and NATO. In 2007, Slovenia adopted the euro, completing a quick and efficient accession to Europe and the EU.

Culture [ edit ]

Slovenia lies at the tripoint of the Germanic, Latin, and Slavic cultures, and Slovenes are fiercely proud of their culture. Two names you will run into over and over again are national poet France Prešeren (1800-1849), who penned (among other things) the Slovenian national anthem, and the architect Jože Plečnik (1872-1957), credited with Ljubljana's iconic Tromostovje bridges and, seemingly, half the modern buildings in the country. It was the monks of the Catholic Church that kept Slovene alive over the centuries of relentless Germanization from the north. As a result Slovene survived in its unique form different than Serbo-Croatian to the south. Part of both the countryside and city architecture in the Julian Alps shares a lot in common with neighboring Austria, including countless roadside shrines and pretty baroque steeples, giving the interior of the nation a truly Alpine flavor. One could easily mistake parts of mountainous Slovenia for Tyrol, Salzburg or Bavaria. In modern times, industrial band Laibach (see box) has served to put Slovenia on the map. In the decades before them, Slavko Avsenik and his Oberkrainer (as known in German) did the same.

Climate [ edit ]

Mediterranean climate on the coast, mountain climate in the Alps with mild summers and freezing winters and continental climate with hot summers and freezing winters in the plateaus and valleys to the east.

Terrain [ edit ]

A short coastal strip on the Adriatic, an Alpine mountain region adjacent to Italy and Austria, mixed mountain and valleys with numerous rivers to the east and Pannonian Basin in northeast. Central Ljubljana valley with Ljubljana marshes in the southern part. In the southwest there is the Karst ( Kras in Slovene, Carso in Italian) (where the name for karst topography as a whole actually comes from). The Karst region is a barren but beautiful limestone region directly north of the Italian city of Trieste.

• Natural hazards – flooding and earthquakes
• Highest point – Triglav (2,864 m)
• Lowest point – Adriatic Sea (0 m)

Visitor information [ edit ]

• [ Slovenia Info

Talk [ edit ]

Slovenian , the national language, is spoken as the mother tongue by 91% of the population, but there are also small Italian (concentrated on the Primorska coast) and somewhat bigger Hungarian (in Prekmurje to the northeast) minorities. Historically, and prior to the end of World War II there was also a significant German speaking minority. Conversely, Slovenian is spoken in border regions of neighbouring countries.

English is widely spoken by younger adults who grew up after the fall of Yugoslavia. People who grew up during the Yugoslav era, on the other hand, usually speak no English. Many people you come into contact with as a tourist will speak English, and may have some functional knowledge of German , in particular in Eastern Slovenia , and of Italian in the coastal region where Italian is a co-official language. Serbo-Croatian is very closely related to Slovenian and widely understood.

The Slovenian school system heavily promotes the teaching of foreign languages from primary school onwards. Children study two foreign languages (most commonly English and German ) by the time they get to grammar school. A typical grammar school often teaches an optional third foreign language, Spanish , Italian , or French . Many speak English well with older people speaking German. Some older people may speak Russian as it was a compulsory second language in schools for a few years after the World War II.

Get in [ edit ]

Entry requirements [ edit ].

Slovenia is a member of the Schengen Agreement . See Travelling around the Schengen Area for more information on how the scheme works, which countries are members and what the requirements are for your nationality. In summary:

• There are normally no immigration controls between countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.
• There are usually identity checks before boarding international flights or boats entering the Schengen Area. Sometimes there are temporary border controls at land borders.
• A visa granted for any Schengen member is valid in all other countries that have signed and implemented the treaty.

Citizens of the above countries are permitted to work in Slovenia without the need to obtain a visa or any further authorisation for the period of their 90 day visa-free stay. However, this ability to work visa-free does not necessarily extend to other Schengen countries.

By bus [ edit ]

The Ljubljana Bus Station ( Avtobusna Postaja Ljubljana ) provides composite information about international and airport bus services.

Connections between the Italian city of Trieste and nearby Koper and Piran are frequent on weekdays. There's also a daily bus between Trieste and Ljubljana. In addition, services between Gorizia (Italy) and its twin town of Nova Gorica (Slovenia) are at least hourly throughout the day although the journey is easily walkable. This offers an ideal connection between the Italian and Slovene railway networks or an alternative entry point from Trieste's Ronchi Airport or the city of Venice.

By plane [ edit ]

• Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport is Slovenia's primary international airport.
• Maribor has Slovenia's second busiest airport, even if it ha less than 10,000 passengers in 2016.

There are other options worth exploring in neighbouring countries. There are three Croatian airports within close proximity of the Slovene border: Zagreb ( ZAG  IATA ) is a worthwhile point of entry to consider if you want to visit the eastern parts of Slovenia, while Pula ( PUY  IATA ) and Rijeka ( RJK  IATA ) are within a one-hour drive from most towns in southern and south-western Slovenia. In Italy, a convenient gateway, especially to western Slovenia, is the airport of Trieste ( TRS  IATA ), a rapidly growing regional airport within an hour's drive from Ljubljana via super highway. Further away in Italy, Venice and Treviso ( TSF  IATA ) offer a vast array of destinations around the world. They can be good for day trips, though bus and railway connections between these airports and Slovenia are lackluster. Finally, the Austrian airports of Klagenfurt ( KLU  IATA ) and Graz ( GRZ  IATA ) are also options for Northern Slovenia, though the flight offerings are limited.

By train [ edit ]

Slovenia is well connected to Austria, Croatia and Hungary by train. The most popular routes connect from Vienna or Villach in Austria (in good weather, this journey past the Julian Alps is spectacular), from Budapest in Hungary , and from Zagreb in Croatia . All lines converge on the capital Ljubljana.

Italian Railways operate a daily Trieste - Ljubljana train, and a daily Udine - Trieste - Ljubljana train. A 2nd class ticket costs €8 for Trieste-Ljubljana, and €15.60 for Udine-Ljubljana.

Slovenia Railways [dead link] is the national railway company. There are many international routes [dead link] , and special offers [dead link] exist for some destinations, so you should consider informing yourself about that in advance. There are destinations, which have tickets on contingency basis, meaning that they could run out fast, but are usually a lot cheaper, such as Ljubljana - Prague line (cooperation between SŽ and Czech railways), €58 for a return ticket (compared to a normal price of €200). For return trips originating in Slovenia, "City Star" tickets, which are open-dated, but usually require a weekend stay, are often the cheapest choice [1] [dead link] . Also, be aware that you also receive a discount with the Euro<26 youth card [2] [dead link] on most international lines (of course the discount does not stack up if you already have a special deal). The same card also applies for all domestic lines, with a 30% discount.

The quality and comfort of the trains on international routes varies significantly. The unwritten rule is that everything heading up north from Ljubljana has a pretty good standard. The trains usually have restaurants on board, with clean and modern toilets. The same can not be guaranteed for the lines heading south (such as Belgrade , Sofia , Skopje or Thessaloniki ), so be sure to carry a supply of food and beverages on board (water and coffee is available in every sleeping compartment), when heading to or from Ljubljana from the Balkans, with the train. However, the express services which run to Zagreb (usually starting in Munich , Germany ) are very high quality - but the price shows this.

By car [ edit ]

Slovenia has an excellent highway network connected to neighboring countries. Slovenia demands that all vehicles with a permissible weight of up to 3.5 tons buy a vignette (road tax) before using motorways or expressways. For passenger vehicles, the vignette costs €15 for a week, €30 for a month, or €95 for a year. For motorcyclists, this costs €7.50 per week, €25 for 6 months and €47.50 for a year. Using motorways without a vignette will result in a fine of €300 or more. Vignettes are sold at the border, please remember to ask (the border agents are supposed to give you a flyer advising you to buy one, but they don't always do that. The posted signs advising you to buy a vignette are in Slovene only).

When entering through northern neighbor Austria, you also need a separate vignette to use the Austrian highway network.

From Austria [ edit ]

• Vienna → Graz → Šentilj → Maribor
• Villach → Karavanke Tunnel → Jesenice
• Villach → Wurzenpass → Podkoren → Kranjska Gora
• Klagenfurt → Loiblpass → Ljubelj → Kranj

From Italy [ edit ]

• Venice → Trieste → Koper
• Venice → Gorizia → Nova Gorica
• Tarvisio → Rateče → Kranjska Gora → Jesenice

By boat [ edit ]

• There is a fast ferry between Venice and Izola , running with an irregular schedule mainly during the summer season (for the timetable see [3] [dead link] ). The journey takes 3 hours.
• Venezialines run one fast ferry per week between Venice and Piran .
• During the summer months, there is a fast craft service operated by Trieste Lines between Trieste (Italy), Piran (Slovenia), Poreč (Croatia) and Rovinj (Croatia). The portion of the journey between Piran and Trieste lasts 30 minutes, which is pretty much the same as the same journey in a car.

Get around [ edit ]

Slovenia is a relatively small country and getting around is generally quick and painless. However, the explosive growth in car ownership has meant tougher times for public transport, and bus schedules in particular have been slashed, so some planning ahead is required. Services are sparse on Saturdays and very limited indeed on Sundays.

Slovenia's train network, operated by Slovenske železnice (SŽ) [dead link] will get you to most destinations in the country, although there are some annoying gaps in the network and routes can be circuitous, so going from anywhere to anywhere usually requires a change at Ljubljana. Trains are, however, some 30% cheaper than buses and return discounts are available on weekends. Buy tickets before you board, as there's a surcharge for any tickets bought from the conductor—except if tickets are not sold at the station. A €1.50 surcharge also applies to any InterCity trains. Bicycle ticket is €1.5 (€3.5 for E-bicycle) and it is valid for whole calendar-day.

Quite a bit of money and effort has been put into modernizing the system and the newest trains are as nice as anything you'll find in Western Europe, and although rural stations are often quite basic, most stations are extremely well kept with flowers decorating the platforms throughout summer months. In particular, the name of the station is typically only visible on a single sign on the station building itself, so figuring out where you are means craning your neck a lot. Newer trains do have an voice announcement system that tells you to which station you are approaching. Trains are punctual (except some international ones), so check the expected arrival time and some previous station names to be sure where to get off. For figuring out your next train from a station; electronic signboards are a rarity (outside Ljubljana), but printed schedules are always available: odhod (yellow) means departures, while prihod (white) is arrivals, although this is usually indicated in both English and Slovene.

Most of trains have free Wi-Fi.

Buses fill in the gaps, and are usually a better option for some towns not directly served from Ljubljana by train (e.g. Bled , Piran ). Some bigger stations have handy electronic search engines for schedules and fares. Slovenia's leading long-distance bus companies are Arriva Slovenija and FlixBus .

Traffic is Slovenia's biggest safety risk. Accidents are caused by excessive speeds on motorways, excessive speeds on smaller roads, reckless overtaking and the narrowness of mountain and coastal roads combined with driving habits. The winter tyre ban is in force from 15 November to 15 March. The drink-driving limit is 0.5. Traffic police in Slovenia are not very visible.

Slovenia's roads are for the most part well maintained and well signposted, and you won't have a problem if you drive or hire a car. Having a car certainly does add a level of mobility and self-direction that you won't get by train or bus.

There are a number of car rental and taxi businesses in Ljubljana. The big international companies are all represented, but if you are on a budget, the local companies have some nice offers if you do not mind using a car which is a few years old.

Slovenian railways also offer Motorail [dead link] on some routes where you can take your car on the train and save the stress of driving.

See [ edit ]

Slovenian cities leave no doubt about historic influence played by Austrian and Italian architecture: Ljubljana is not unlike Prague and Piran could be easily mistaken for a small Italian town. While cities are far from boring, the real Slovenian must-see is its diverse and unspoiled nature.

• Visit the alpine resort of Bled and its romantic lake with an island, but continue towards Srednja vas to see some traditional villages, or hitch a ride to Pokljuka mountain, a good starting point for hikes into Julian Alps .
• Enjoy the 5.3 km ride through Postojna caves , the longest publicly accessible depth of any cave system in the world, with massive stalactites and stalagmites.
• After visiting the lively coastal town of Piran , a trip to the serene salt works of nearby Sečovlje will feel like stepping out of this world.
• Soča river is said to be one of the few rivers in the world to retain their emerald green color throughout its length. The Trenta valley, through which it flows before crossing to Italy, is also well worth seeing.
• Slovenian pint-size baroque capital Ljubljana is nice in any season but especially popular in December due to its abundant but tasteful decoration.

Do [ edit ]

There are many great opportunities for activity holidays in Slovenia: The mountains and rivers of the Julian Alps provide the perfect location for hiking, mountain biking, rafting and kayaking. The southern part of Slovenia is an area of numerous caves. You can enjoy different spa resorts in the eastern part, take a dive in the Adriatic Sea, experience the Slovene cities, go skiing, or enjoy in the countryside tasting Slovene cuisine and local wine. Since Slovenia is a small country, you can discover it in a few days. Therefore you can visit Ljubljana (the capital city), the Julian Alps, Karst region, alpine lakes within several days. A more detailed look at the country, however, requires much more time.

• Adrenaline adventures in the Posočje area, you can stay in Ljubljana and, in a short distance away, discover the amazing North-Western area of Slovenia called Posočje and Triglav National Park—canyoning (soteskanje), rafting and para-gliding are available. Because of the relatively new appearance of Slovenia on the national stage of extreme sports, these are much less expensive to participate in than other European countries, such as the UK or Switzerland. These activities are particularly prevalent in Bohinj, Bovec, Kranjska Gora, and other north-western cities.
• There are more than 8,000 known caves in Slovenia, including the tourist area of Postojna and the UNESCO listed Škocjan Caves .
• Take advantage of beautiful nature in the Alps and go hiking , cross-country skiing , Nordic walking , or mountain biking , weather permitting. If you do so, it may be worth investigating in a membership in the Slovenian Alpine Association (PZS) [dead link] , which gives a discount for accommodations at mountain huts run by member associations and includes an accident and rescue insurance.
• Visit of one many spa resorts in Slovenia.
• Visit the Slovene seaside and swim in the Adriatic Sea. Try local seafood and visit the towns of Piran and Portorož .
• Visit one of the golf courses in Slovenia.
• Skiing in the Julian Alps is popular in the winter. More popular ski resorts are: Kranjska Gora, Krvavec , Vogel , Rogla , Cerkno , Kanin , and Mariborsko Pohorje .

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

Slovenia uses the euro , like several other European countries . One euro is divided into 100 cents. The official symbol for the euro is €, and its ISO code is EUR. There is no official symbol for the cent.

All banknotes and coins of this common currency are legal tender within all the countries, except that low-denomination coins (one and two cent) are phased out in some of them. The banknotes look the same across countries, while coins have a standard common design on the reverse, expressing the value, and a national country-specific design on the obverse. The obverse is also used for different designs of commemorative coins. The design of the obverse does not affect the coin's acceptability.

The euro replaced the Slovenian tolar (SIT).

Prices [ edit ]

Prices are high compared to most of Eastern Europe (except Croatia ), but lower compared to Italy or Austria . Although prices do vary quite a bit, it really depends on the location. For example, a beer (0.5L) in a pub in "Stara Ljubljana" (literally "Old (Town) Ljubljana") would cost you around €3, while a beer outside Ljubljana would cost around €1.80. A budget minded traveller can hold his own, if they are smart. For example buying your groceries in a large store (supermarket), such are Mercator, Tuš, Spar, Lidl, Hofer, E.Leclerc etc., will be likely cheaper than buying on the market, or in a small store, etc.

A value-added tax (VAT) of 22% (with a reduced rate of 9.5% usually applied to food, including some soft drinks) is charged on most purchases—this is always included in the price displayed. Note that if you are not an EU resident, you are entitled to VAT tax return for purchases over a certain value. Ask the cashier to write down your name on your bill ( račun , pronounced rah-CHOON) and show this bill when you leave Slovenia through Jože Pučnik (formerly Brnik) airport.

Tipping [ edit ]

Tipping was traditionally not practiced in Slovenia, but the flip side to the near-disappearance of Communist-style "service with a snarl" is that tips for service are now generally expected at sit-down restaurants, with 10% considered standard.

Eat [ edit ]

People from Slovenia's northern neighbour Austria come to Slovenia just for the food; with a mixture of Subalpine, Italian, Austrian, Hungarian and Balkan cuisine, most people will find something to their liking, unless they're strict vegetarians. Many claim that the pizza here is as good as or even better than in neighboring Italy .

Cuisine [ edit ]

Generally speaking, Slovenian food is heavy, meaty and plain. A typical three-course meal starts with a soup ( juha ), often just beef ( goveja ) or chicken ( piščančja ) broth with egg noodles ( rezanci ), and then a meat dish served with potatoes ( krompir ) and a vinegary fresh salad ( solata ). Fresh bread ( kruh ) is often served on the side and is uniformly delicious.

Common mains include cutlets ( zrezek ), sausage ( klobasa ) and goulash ( golaž ), all usually prepared from pork ( svinjina ), lamb ( jagnjetina ) and game ( divjačina ), but there is a large choice of fish ( ribe ) and seafood even further away from the coast. Popular Italian imports include all sorts of pasta ( testenine ), pizza ( pica ), ravioli ( ravioli ) and risotto ( rižota ). A major event in the countryside still today is the slaughtering of a pig from which many various products are made: blood sausage ( krvavica ), roasts ( pečenka ), stuffed tripe ( polnjeni vampi ), smoked sausage ( prekajena salama ), salami ( salama ), ham ( šunka ) and bacon ( slanina ). Recipes for the preparation of poultry ( perutnina ), especially turkey ( puran ), goose ( gos ), duck ( raca ) and capon ( kopun ), have been preserved for many centuries. Chicken ( piščanec ) is also common. Squid is fairly common and reasonably priced.

Uniquely Slovenian dishes are available, but you won't find them on every menu, so here are some to look out for:

• Kraški pršut – Air-dried ham, similar to but not the same as Italian prosciutto
• štruklji – Dumplings which Slovenians prepare in 70 different ways stuffed with sweet fillings, meat or vegetables
• žganci – A type of polenta ( ajdovi žganci are made of buckwheat)
• žlikrofi – Potato dumplings similar to gnocchi, specialty of the Idrija region
• jota – A type of soup made of beans, sauerkraut, potatoes, bacon, spare ribs, and the main seasoning is garlic.

Some Slovenian desserts can also be found:

• potica – A type of nut roll for holiday occasions also prepared with the widest variety of fillings.
• prekmurska gibanica – A very heavy cakelike pastry of poppy seeds, walnuts, apples, raisins, cheese etc.

Places to eat [ edit ]

At the top of the food chain is the restavracija (restaurant), which could be a fancy restaurant with waiters and tablecloths or just a typical Chinese restaurant. More common in the countryside are the gostilna and gostišče , rustic inns serving hearty Slovene fare. Lunch sets ( dnevno kosilo ) cost around €7 for three courses (soup, salad and main) and the large portions are usually well worth the paltry cost.

Fast food is, invariably, cheap, greasy and (more often than not) terrible. It's best to steer clear of the local mutation of the hamburger, which is served up in grills and snack bars known as okrepčevalnica . There is no real Slovenian fast food, but Slovenians have adopted greasy Balkan grills like pleskavica (a spiced-up hamburger patty) and čevapčiči (spicy meatballs) are ubiquitous, but one of the more tasty if not healthy options is the Bosnian speciality burek , a large, flaky pastry stuffed with either meat ( mesni ), cheese ( sirni ) or apple ( jabolčni ), often sold for as little as €2. Many fast food places make döner kebabs , and they are among the most popular fast foods in Slovenia. It's very difficult to find a bad kebab in Slovenia, and they are sold in many places nationwide.

Dietary restrictions [ edit ]

Slovenia is not the best of destinations for a vegetarian, although even the smokiest inn can usually whip up a decent fresh salad ( solata ) and fried vegetables on request. Lacto-ovo vegetarians will have it easy in Slovenia, while strict vegans won't find more than a handful of vegan restaurants in the country (most of them in Ljubljana ). It is wise to know that even the smallest store has its healthy food shelves with many non-animal alternatives. In the cities the Mediterranean chick-pea staple falafel and its cousin the vegiburger have made some inroads on fast-food menus. Many restaurants offer a "vegetarian plate", which includes potatoes, fresh or boiled vegetables and soya "steak".

In coastal cities, there is a paradise for pescetarians and seafood lovers. Local specialities are fish, squids, mussels, and octopus.

Drink [ edit ]

In proper Slovene style, all bases are covered for drinks and you can get very good Slovenian beers, wines and spirits. Tap water is generally drinkable.

Coffee and tea [ edit ]

In Slovenia, coffee ( kava ) usually means an espresso, and cafes ( kavarna ) are a common sight with a basic cup costing €1–1.50. One can also order coffee with milk ( kava z mlekom ) or whipped cream ( kava s smetano ). Coffee culture is widespread in Slovenia, and one can see Slovenes with friends sitting in the same café for hours. When invited to a cup of coffee at someone's home, expect Turkish coffee. Tea ( čaj ) is nowhere near as popular, and if they do drink it (mostly in the winter), Slovenes prefer all sorts of fruit-flavored and herbal teas over a basic black cup. Tea is served with honey and lemon by request.

Beer [ edit ]

Beer ( pivo ) is the most popular tipple and the main brands are Laško and Union . Adam Ravbar beer is good quality and is usually hard to find anywhere except in their small brewery (located in Domžale, a town about 10 km north of Ljubljana). A bottle or jug will cost you €2.50 in a pub ( pivnica ). Ask for veliko (large) for 0.5L and malo (small) for 0.3L. Also try "Union Radler Grapefruit", a refreshing mixture of beer and grapefruit juice.

Wine [ edit ]

Despite what you might think if you've ever sampled an exported sickly sweet Riesling, Slovenian wine ( vino ) can be quite good — as in Germany, they keep the best stuff for themselves. Generally, the Goriška brda region produces the best reds and the drier whites (in a more Italian/French style), while the Štajerska region produces the best semi-dry to sweet whites, which cater more to the German/Austrian-type of palate. Other local specialities worth sampling are Teran , a very dry red from the Kras region, and Cviček , a red so dry and light it's almost a rosé. Wine is usually priced and ordered by the decilitre ( deci , pronounced "de-tsee"), with a deci around €1 and a normal glass containing about two deci.

Spirits [ edit ]

A Slovene brandy known as žganje or (colloquially) šnops , not unlike the Hungarian palinka , can be distilled from almost any fruit. Medeno žganje also known as medica has been sweetened with honey. Vodka is, as in most of Slavic nations, also very popular, especially among the younger generation.

Sleep [ edit ]

Slovenia has a wide variety of accommodation, ranging from five star hotels to secluded cottages in the mountains.

Hostels [ edit ]

There are hostels in all of the tourist destinations in Slovenia. The average price for a basic bed in a dorm is €10-20. Quite a few student dormitories ( dijaški dom ) are converted into hostels in the summer, but these tend to be poorly located and somewhat dingy.

Mountain Huts can be found in Triglav National Park , and they are very warm, welcoming and friendly. Information about these huts can be found at tourist information offices who will also help you plan your walks around the area and phone the hostels to book them for you. The only way to get to the huts is by foot, and expect a fair bit of walking up hills, as the lowest huts are around 700 m up. There are clear signs/information around stating how long it will take to travel to/between all the huts indicated in hours.

Tourist farms [ edit ]

Tourist farms can be found around Slovene countryside and usually they offer wide selection of traditional food, local wine, different sport activities etc. They also offer opportunities to experience real traditional countryside life.

Camping [ edit ]

Camping is not permitted in the national parks of Slovenia, but there are various designated camping grounds. It's advisable to take a camping mat of some sort, as nice, comfortable grass is a luxury at camp sites and you're much more likely to find pitches consisting of small stones.

Learn [ edit ]

Slovenia has four universities, located in Ljubljana , Maribor , Koper , and Nova Gorica as well as several independent colleges (eg BSA Kranj, Bled ).

The university in Ljubljana is the oldest, largest and most well-respected teaching institution in the country. The University of Ljubljana also contains 3 art academies: Theatre and Film; Music; Fine Arts. Various recognized international charts list the University of Ljubljana in the top 3% of universities worldwide.

Work [ edit ]

If you are a citizen of a country that is a part of the European Union or the EFTA, you may work in Slovenia without any restrictions whatsoever. Everyone else requires a work permit to work in the country.

Finding work in Slovenia is a difficult endeavour, even for the Slovenes themselves. The labour market is so competitive that many Slovenes often move abroad for work. In addition, Slovenia isn't exactly thought of as a destination for building a career since it has a small population and a small economy.

It's possible for English-speaking graduates to get work in a Slovene school teaching English for around a year in a scheme similar to Japan's JET programme.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Slovenia is one of the safest countries you can visit, but be aware of your surroundings in parts of Ljubljana.

The nationwide emergency number is 112. To call police, dial 113. There are emergency telephones interspersed along the main motorways. You can find the closest SOS-phone by the arrows on the reflection posts.

People may get a bit aggressive in crowded bars and discothèques, and it is not uncommon to be grabbed or groped.

Petty theft can occur everywhere. Don't worry about it, just don't leave your watch on the car seat while you go kayaking.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

There are no unusual health concerns in Slovenia. Hygiene standards are high and tap water is potable.

While in nature, always use tick repellents, due to the Borreliosis and Meningitis danger. Borreliosis is very widespread in the country.

There are two species of venomous adders in the Julian Alps. You are unlikely to be bitten, but if you are, you should seek medical help as antiserums are available (although actually seldom administered). In the forests in the south, you may encounter a bear; Slovenia contains the highest bear population in Europe, but attacks are very rare. Normally, in countries that have been domesticated for several thousand years, the indigenous wild fauna will be either very skittish or very comfortable with humans. It depends on the area you are in, of course, but use your head. If you go camping in the Julian Alps and bring a lot of sausage and bacon, chances are you will attract some unwanted visitors.

Respect [ edit ]

Slovenians are generally open and friendly, so don't hesitate to address people as those younger than 50 understand English and will be eager to help you. You will impress them if you try using some basic Slovenian words. Slovenian is rarely spoken by foreigners, so your effort will be appreciated and rewarded.

Slovenians will insist when offering something, as "no" doesn't always mean "no," they just think it's polite for you to refuse, and polite for them to insist. Don't worry unnecessarily, but still you should take some normal precautions to study your host first.

Slovenians are proud for having preserved their national identity (especially the language) in spite of the pressures from neighboring nations in past centuries. Due to their economic success as well as historical and contemporary cultural bonds to Central Europe, they usually don't like their country to be described as part of "Eastern Europe". While Slovenian is closely related to Serbian and Croatian, it is not the same language. Another common misconception is that Slovenia was part of the Soviet Bloc, while it was in fact the northernmost country of Yugoslavia , which was neutral during the Cold War. You can, however, freely discuss these topics; just be aware that you can hear contrasting sides of the story, depending on who you talk to and his/her political affinity. There is still a strong division among leftists and rightists. Be careful if entering a discussion on open territorial issues with Croatia or on the Slovenian civil war during WWII and its aftermath. Consider these controversial topics a taboo.

Due to Slovenia's history as part of Yugoslavia, resentment towards Serbia and Russia is high. Try to avoid being overly enthusiastic about either country, as it can quickly arouse strong emotions among locals.

There is an active lesbian and gay scene in Slovenia. As elsewhere in this part of Europe, homosexuals are generally safe, although there have been a few reported attacks in the past. Be cautious in the evening and during the night, especially in cities. Women/girls holding hands are considered normal and a sign of friendship.

Practical advice:

• If you are invited to dinner at someone's home, bring a bottle of good wine. It's expected to give a compliment to a cook. Do it before you are asked if you liked the meal!
• Slovenians generally wear slippers at home, so take your shoes off when you enter. They will offer you slippers or insist you keep the shoes on. They'll normally be very gracious, knowing that you are a visitor and don't know all of their customs, but try not to be ignorantly callous.
• It's normal to shake hands when introduced to someone. Don't try to make a kiss when introduced, though in the younger generation, kissing and hugging is not uncommon between friends.
• The Slovenian Alps (especially the highest peak Triglav, named after a Slavic god) are a national symbol. Slovenia is the only country to have its highest peak on the national flag.
• It's common to greet people with Dober dan (Good day) when you meet in the mountains, and to say Srečno (Good luck) when you depart. There is a strong spirit of camaraderie in the mountains.
• It's also polite to say Dober dan to people passing by in small towns and villages.

Connect [ edit ]

Telephone [ edit ]

The international calling code for Slovenia is 386, and the prefix for international calls is 00; the area code prefix is 0. Some number blocks are reserved for special use: 080 are toll-free numbers and 090 are commercial services, which are usually expensive.

Mobile networks use the common European frequencies (900 and 1,800 MHz for GSM/LTE and 2,100 MHz for 3G; 800 MHz is planned for LTE). Two major Slovenian mobile companies, Mobitel and Simobil, provide an excellent coverage in GSM and 3G, but 3G can be unavailable in mountainous regions. Roaming between European phone companies is becoming cheaper due to the EU regulation setting a maximum of €0.29 per minute for calls made and €0.09 for calls received, while calls to or from non-EU providers remain expensive. Slovenian pre-paid SIM cards are also available in supermarkets and gas stations.

Telekom Slovenije operates around 3,500 phone booths. They unfortunately do not accept coins but require the use of cards costing €3–15.

Internet [ edit ]

Slovenia is generally well covered by inexpensive broadband internet due to fierce competition between multiple companies. Internet cafes are thus common in cities and internet access is offered by most hotels and hostels.

A free wireless internet network is also being set up in some cities by volunteers ( Ljubljana , Maribor , Nova Gorica ). You can use it if you have a computer or a WiFi enabled phone.

Postal Services [ edit ]

The offices of Pošta Slovenije are ubiquitous. Look for French horn-like signs on dark yellow background. Delivery takes one day within Slovenia, a few days within Europe and (usually) less than two weeks worldwide. DHL is also available.

Postal rates [ edit ]

Inland postcard: €0.69 (value of the "B" stamp)

Inland letter (up to 20 g): €0.55 (value of the "A" stamp)

International postcard / international letter (up to 20 g): €1.22 (value of the "C" stamp)

International airmail postcard / international airmail letter (up to 20 g): €2.19

Newsagents or shops selling postcards usually sell stamps, too. If this is not the case, you can always buy them at a Post Office.

For airmail, you will have to go to the Post Office and ask for prednostno . You can pay directly at the counter or attach proper stamps.

Rates correct as of January 2021.

• Has custom banner
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default alignment
• Maps with non-default size
• Has map markers
• Articles with dead external links
• Outline countries
• Outline articles
• Country articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Central Europe
• All destination articles
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Risk of landslides, floods and high winds

There is a risk of frequent and heavy seasonal (autumn) rainstorms, accompanied by high winds. These could cause flooding, landslides and road closures throughout Slovenia. Check weather and traffic reports before you travel, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Slovenia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Slovenia.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Slovenia.

If you decide to travel to Slovenia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Slovenia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Six months recommended; at least three months beyond your planned departure from  the Schengen area .

One page required for entry stamp.

Not required for stays under 90 days within each 180-day period.

10,000 euro limit.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy ljubljana.

Prešernova 31 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia Telephone:  +(386) (1) 200-5500 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(386) (1) 200-5500 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Slovenia, but do not require a visa for tourist or routine business travel of less than 90 days. Note: The 90 day visa-free time-frame starts as soon as you enter the Schengen Zone – a border-less area made up of a number of European countries including Slovenia, Austria, Hungary and Italy. Travelers can stay up to a cumulative 90 days within the period of the immediately preceding 180 days. That means if a traveler stays 90 days, s/he will need to be outside of the Schengen zone for 180 days to reset the clock. Remaining in Slovenia or the Schengen Area beyond 90 days without a residency permit may incur large fines, deportation, criminal charges, and/or travel restrictions.
• If you wish to stay in Slovenia for longer than 90 days, you will require a long stay “D” visa or a residence permit . Applying for residency is time consuming. U.S. citizens must submit an FBI criminal records certificate less than three months old apostilled by the Department of State . 
• Foreigners must carry official identification at all times (U.S. passport or a Slovenian residence card).
• You must obtain a stamp in your passport upon entering the Schengen Area and show it when departing.
• Non-EU citizens staying longer than three days must register with the police within 72 hours of arrival. Hotels and apartments or houses rented through a company will register you. In all other cases, you must register yourself at a police station. Failure to register can result in hefty fines.

Visit the Embassy of Slovenia website for current visa information.

Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement. 

• Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay. If you plan on transiting a Schengen country, review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .
• You will need s ufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page .

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Slovenia.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites. For general information about Italian customs regulations, please read our  Customs Information page and our  Italian Customs  website.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, rudimentary Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Slovenia’s overall crime rate is low. Incidents of purse snatching and pickpocketing are most common in tourist areas, with robberies and acts of vandalism reported in Ljubljana primarily late at night.

• Use common sense, avoid isolated areas after dark, take security precautions, and report any incidents to the local police.
• Residential break-ins occur, particularly in Ljubljana. Residences left unattended for extended periods with poor security measures are most vulnerable.
• Vehicle break-ins and thefts also occur. Always lock your vehicles, use vehicle anti-theft devices, and park in well-lit areas or in residential or hotel garages. Bicycle theft is disproportionately high compared to similarly situated cities. Ensure your bicycles are secured before leaving them in a bicycle rack or bike park.
• Exercise caution at so-called "gentlemen's clubs." Such establishments have presented foreign customers with inflated bar bills and threatened those who refuse to pay.
• U.S. citizens have reported sexual assaults in at least one nightclub in recent years. Use caution when accepting open drinks at bars or clubs, and don’t leave your drinks unattended.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Demonstrations: There are occasional strikes, protests, and other public demonstrations in Slovenia. Protests in Ljubljana are usually held in areas around Kongresni Trg (Congress Square), opposite the Slovenian Parliament, in other locations in central Ljubljana, and sometimes near the U.S. Embassy. Some participants have occasionally expressed anti-U.S. sentiments. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent. 

• Be vigilant near crowded venues.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
• For additional information, check the  Embassy’s website.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police by dialing 113. For medical emergencies, dial 112. Contact the U.S. Embassy aby calling +386-1-200-5500. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local English-speaking attorneys
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas.

Outdoor adventure sports are increasingly popular with tourists in Slovenia. Such activities involve inherent risk, and travelers are encouraged to be mindful of their own personal limitations, as well as accessibility and connectivity issues that might hinder emergency response. Many of the mountain rescues in Slovenia involve foreign nationals who were ill-prepared: hiking or climbing without proper footwear and protective equipment, unprepared for altitude sickness, drinking insufficient water, leaving marked trails, and even handling poisonous snakes. If you are hiking/climbing you should let family/friends know in advance where you will be going and register at mountain huts. If you experience an emergency, call 112 for Slovenian police.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Your U.S. passport will not prevent you from being detained, arrested, or prosecuted. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Slovenia are severe. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Make sure you receive a receipt for your purchase when you buy something in Slovenia. Slovenian law allows inspectors to request to see your receipt of purchase upon exiting the business. If you do not present a receipt, you can be fined.

Slovenian authorities enforce strict regulations concerning the import, export, and use of firearms. You should contact the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Washington, D.C. or the Consulate General in Cleveland if you are planning to transport a firearm into or out of Slovenia.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Special Circumstances: Slovenian banks do not accept paper checks, including travelers checks, from the United States. ATMs are common in all major cities and are increasingly common in rural areas. Credit cards are broadly accepted.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: Although same-sex marriage is not legal in Slovenia, the LGBTQI+ community is protected by anti-discrimination laws, and there are no legal or governmental impediments to the organization of LGBTQI+ events. Local NGOs assessed that violence against LGBTQI+ persons was not uncommon, and there have been several isolated violent incidents targeting LGBTQI+ individuals in Slovenia.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Slovenia prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and ease of movement or access. Expect accessibility to be limited in lodging and general infrastructure, especially outside of the main cities, but common in public transportation and communication/information.

Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different in Slovenia from what you find in the United States. Under Slovenian law, persons with disabilities should have access to buildings, information, and communications. In practice, however, modification of public and private structures to improve access is a work in progress, and many buildings are not easily accessible. Most tourist destinations around Slovenia are accessible by those with disabilities.

Rental, repair, replacement parts for assistive devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants are widely available.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

• For emergency services in Slovenia dial 112. Ambulance services are widely available and reliable. When contacting an ambulance, if you do not speak Slovenian, you may need to find a Slovenian speaker who can explain your location.
• Medical care throughout Slovenia is comparable to that found in the United States.. Emergency responders may determine that patients requiring specialized and more complex medical care need to be transported to Ljubljana Clinical Center (public hospital) by air.  
• While many medical providers in Slovenia speak excellent English, that may not be the case for all medical staff.
• There is a list of English-speaking medical providers and 24-hour pharmacies on the U.S. Embassy’s website .
• Although most government-run institutions in Slovenia provide care at little or no cost to Slovenian nationals, foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, are expected to pay the full cost directly. That said, prices in government-run clinics are very reasonable. Private clinics are also an option. For both, you will pay up front and can later seek reimbursement from your health insurance provider.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Clinics for preventive vaccinations can provide more information.

Pharmaceuticals:

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Almost all prescriptions available in the United States are widely available in Slovenia (although may be under different names). You may need a prescription for medications (such as Ibuprofen when over 200 mg) that could be purchased over-the-counter in the United States.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought  into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Ljubljana has air pollution levels similar to those in major U.S. cities. Visit the European Environment Agency’s website for information on air quality in Slovenia.

Water Quality:

• The tap water in Ljubljana and other cities in Slovenia is suitable for drinking. Precautions for safe food storage and preparation are the same as would be practiced in the United States. Detailed laboratory reports about the water quality are available in Slovenian language. Slovenia does not put fluoride in the tap water, so long term residents might want to consider fluoride supplements for their children.

General Health Language:

• 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.
• Slovenia has a high incidence of Lyme disease and encephalitis, both transmitted by ticks. For stays longer than three months, consider getting a vaccine to prevent tick-borne encephalitis. This vaccine is not available in the United States, but is available in Slovenia. Use insect repellent and inspect your body after being outdoors.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Slovenia has a well-developed, connected, and clearly-marked road network with road signs and traffic rules consistent with those used throughout Europe.

• Be alert to aggressive drivers both in cities and on highways. Many serious, high-speed accidents occur in Slovenia.
• If anyone is injured, an ambulance can be reached by dialing 112.
• Police routinely conduct breathalyzer tests on all drivers involved in accidents, regardless of whom they suspect is at fault. If major damage has occurred, do not move your vehicle. The police will wish to survey the accident scene as-is. Obtain the name, contact information, and insurance information from the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
• If your car breaks down, call 1987 for roadside assistance and towing.
• Obtain English traffic and road conditions from the  Automobile Association of Slovenia , Traffic Information Center for Public Roads , or by calling (01) 530-5300.

Traffic Laws: Third-party liability insurance is required for all vehicles and can be purchased locally. Travelers driving rented automobiles from Croatia into Slovenia are generally able to purchase Slovenian insurance at the border.

• Highway vignettes (windshield stickers) are required for all passenger vehicles and motorcycles using highways. Steep fines for driving without a vignette are one of the most common problems faced by U.S. citizens in Slovenia. Purchase a vignette in-country. If driving into Slovenia from neighboring countries, buy your vignette at a gas station before reaching the border.
• If you are stopped for not having a vignette, or for a moving violation, you may have the opportunity to pay a reduced fine ticket on the spot. If you choose not to, the police may confiscate your passport until you pay the fine.
• Don’t drink and drive. The maximum legal blood-alcohol limit is .05%. The limit is.00% for drivers with less than two years’ experience, drivers under 21, and truck or bus drivers. 
• first-aid kit
• spare headlight bulbs
• a warning triangle
• reflective vest/jacket
• blank European accident form (to complete in the event of an accident)
• Using hand-held phones while driving is illegal.
• Turning right on red is illegal.
• Bicycles are very common on Slovenian roads and drivers must yield to them.
• Between November 15 and March 15, all cars must have winter or appropriate all-season tires. Police may require chains in heavy snow.

You need a valid U.S. driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive. After one year, you must get a Slovenian driver’s license. The  American Automobile Association  and the American Automobile Touring Alliance issue IDPs.

For more information on the above, see the Embassy’s page on  Driving in Slovenia .

Public Transportation: Trains and buses are available between cities, and buses provide reliable service within cities such as Ljubljana.

Taxis: While taxis are generally safe and reliable, first ask for an estimated fare and ensure the meter is running during the journey.

Bicycling: Cities have well-developed bicycling networks with marked bicycle lanes along most roads and many rules governing cycling .

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the websites of  Slovenia's national tourist office  and the  Slovenian Roads Agency for more information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Slovenia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Slovenia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Slovenia should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings . View weather warnings specific to Slovenia .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Slovenia . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, slovenia map, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Curaçao

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

TRAVELSLOVENIA.ORG – All You Need To Know To Visit Slovenia

The 10 most popular tourist attractions in slovenia.

The small European country of Slovenia is rich in history, culture and natural attractions, with tourist attractions ranging from historical to natural wonders. Slovenia attracts tourists year-round, and winter is almost as busy as summer. Visitors are drawn as much for the scenic beauty of this tiny Central European country as they are for splendid cities like Ljubljana and Maribor and charming coastal towns like Piran and Izola. In order to help guide you in building a trip itinerary, below are some of the top tourist attractions in Slovenia that are sure to make your trip to this beautiful country extra special.

Share this:

Leave a reply cancel reply, privacy overview.

County Road 26 to open Monday for local, critical trips

Limited travel for commuters using the lake city cutoff opens after state and county collaboration as bridge closure continues.

Montrose and Gunnison Counties — This weekend, CDOT and Gunnison County are working together to accelerate improvements to County Road 26 (Lake City Cutoff) so it can open Monday for local commuter travel between Montrose and Gunnison.  At the same time, engineers continue to conduct safety inspections of the US Highway 50 bridge crossing the Blue Mesa Reservoir at Dillon Pinnacles. This bridge, located west of Gunnison at Mile Point 136.3, closed Thursday in the interest of public safety after an inspection revealed a crack in one of the girders. The technical structure name for the bridge is K-07-B. 

Recognizing the US 50 closure creates a significant detour for commuters traveling between Montrose and Gunnison, CDOT and Gunnison County officials this weekend prioritized getting a shorter access route in place for local travel between the two communities. That collaboration will continue as officials work to further fortify the road with gravel and manage traffic to a level that the road can safely carry.

“We are starting slow in order to increase the chances we can go faster later. The impact on western Colorado cannot be understated and we are exhausting all opportunities and partnerships to mitigate the impacts of the bridge closure,” said Martin Schmidt, Assistant Gunnison County Manager for Public Works.

On Monday, April 22, pilot cars will lead  passenger vehicles through the access route two times a day in each direction. Because CR 26 is a high-mountain, unpaved road that is not intended to accommodate the traffic volumes of US 50, travel times will be limited and commercial vehicles exceeding a 16,001 gross vehicle weight rating are prohibited. The schedule for piloted travel is:

• 6 to 6:30 a.m. and 6 to 6:30 p.m. for westbound travel 
• 7 to 7:30 a.m. and 7 to 7:30 p.m. for eastbound travel 

The queue for westbound pilot car operations will start near the intersection of CO 149 and CR 26 and the queue for eastbound travel will start near the intersection of US 50 and CR 26. The travel time on the access route is expected to be 30 minutes or more.

County Road 26 will only be open for local, essential travel during these timeframes. The road will remain closed at all other times for the ongoing restoration work needed to ensure the road remains safe for travel.

A hotline and email continue to be in place to assist customers with questions about the closure. Anyone with questions can reach out via 970-648-4423 or [email protected] . Calls will be closely monitored and will receive a prompt reply. Information is also available on the project website at bit.ly/us50bridge . Travelers should refer to COtrip.org or the smartphone COtrip Planner app to plan an alternate route.

“CDOT appreciates Gunnison county’s dedication and hard work as we cooperate to offer more options to help the western slope manage this safety closure.  CDOT will continue to support the county as we focus on the opening of County Road 26 to serve the critical needs of residents,” said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew. “County Road 26 is an important local route that is up to five hours more efficient than detouring via state highways. However, this road currently has a natural roadbed and can only accommodate limited traffic - so it is important that we help Gunnison County focus this capacity on the needs of local communities most impacted by the closure.”

There are two recommended detours for through travel via Interstate 70 to the north or US 160 to the south and these detours add six to eight hours of travel time. CDOT is coordinating with emergency service providers to ensure emergency response is unaffected.

Travel Impacts  

• US 50 is closed between Montrose and Gunnison
• Recommended alternate routes are I-70 to the north or US 160 to the south
• A limited, local detour is in place for travel at specific times

Project Contact Information 

For additional information about this project, contact the project team.  

• Webpage: bit.ly/us50bridge
• Information hotline: 970-648-4423 
• Email: [email protected]  
• Fact Sheet: County 26 Local Access
• Hoja informativa del proyecto:  Ruta de acceso local en la County Road 26

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

• SUGGESTED TOPICS
• The Magazine
• Newsletters
• Managing Yourself
• Managing Teams
• Work-life Balance
• The Big Idea
• Data & Visuals
• Reading Lists
• Case Selections
• HBR Learning
• Topic Feeds
• Account Settings
• Email Preferences

Working Parents, Plan for the Week with This Simple Exercise

• Avni Patel Thompson

To avoid surprises and decision fatigue, take 20 minutes to preview your family’s commitments.

As work travel and hours in the office mount, work parents are feeling the logistical challenges of making every week happen — from kid pickup and dropoff and sports practice to meal planning and doctor’s appointments. The main difficulties lie in managing the firehose of information, coping with decision fatigue, and dealing with surprises like an illness or a forgotten event. The best approach for avoiding — or mitigating — these obstacles is the weekly preview: A planning session between the core adults in the family each week to go over what’s coming. The week’s plan is documented and discussed, highlighting variances from typical weeks and indicating back-up plans for particularly tricky spots.

It’s been nearly four years since we first met Amir and Ria as they were navigating the early months of Covid with two jobs and two young children at home.

• AT Avni Patel Thompson  is the founder and CEO of  Milo, the world’s first app to tackle the invisible load of running and raising a family. She is a third-time founder building technology solutions that make everyday parenting lighter and more connected. Previously she was the founder of YC-backed Poppy. Prior to taking the entrepreneurial plunge, she spent over a decade building consumer businesses at P&G, adidas, and Starbucks. She has an MBA (HBS ’08) and a BSc Chemistry from the University of British Columbia. She lives in Vancouver with her husband and two daughters.

Partner Center

Pilot Travel Centers names Gary Hoogeveen as president of its energy business

• Medium Text
• Company Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company Follow
• Company Pilot Travel Centers LLC Follow
• Company Berkshire Hathaway Inc Follow

Sign up here.

Reporting by Arathy Somasekhar in Houston

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

Markets Chevron

TSX loses winning streak as railroad shares slide

Canada's main stock index fell on Wednesday, including declines for railroad shares, as long-term borrowing costs climbed and retail sales data added to evidence of a slowdown in the domestic economy.

• Share full article

Tracing the Long, Winding Path of an Ancient Roman Aqueduct

The Aqua Marcia was the longest of the city’s aqueducts, running nearly 60 miles from its source in the countryside to the heart of ancient Rome. The author followed its course, above and below ground.

In the Park of the Aqueducts, 20 minutes by metro from central Rome, ancient aqueducts that once supplied the Eternal City with water have been preserved. Credit... Roberto Salomone for The New York Times

Supported by

By David Laskin

David Laskin, a frequent visitor to Rome for the past four decades, has written numerous articles on the history, culture, art and architecture of the Eternal City.

• April 24, 2024

The stone arches looped solemnly over their shadows, some teetering above the grass, some sinking into it. It was a dazzling January morning, and I was standing in the Park of the Aqueducts , about 20 minutes by metro from central Rome. Here, the ruined arcades of six of the 11 aqueducts that once supplied the Eternal City with an astonishing volume of water — by some counts double the per capita water allotment of a typical 21st-century American city — have been preserved.

My aim was to trace the course of one of them: the Aqua Marcia, built between 144 and 140 B.C. by Julius Caesar’s ancestor Quintus Marcius Rex.

Hailed by Pliny the Elder as “the most famous of all waters in the world for coldness and wholesomeness,” the Marcia was also the longest of the capital’s ancient aqueducts, running some 56.8 miles from source to city. Only about 6.2 miles stood above ground.

I had always assumed that Rome’s aqueducts were a kind of aerial plumbing, their water channeled atop arches. But the Marcia, like all classical aqueducts, ran largely underground. The water moved by the force of gravity, and arches and bridges, which were expensive and vulnerable to attack, were only used to span ravines, valleys and other dips in the terrain that would have interrupted the flow.

The arcade of the Marcia is now dry, but the same water still feeds mountain springs east of the capital. And though it now travels through a modern network of tunnels and tubes, the water is still referred to by its ancient name and is still considered Rome’s best drinking water.

One of the series of arches that rose before me once carried this current to Rome. But which one?

In the Park of the Aqueducts

The roughly 600-acre Park of the Aqueducts has few signs, maps or directions. Romans come here to jog and walk their dogs. The few tourists wander through a bucolic landscape — green, tranquil, its imposing ruins seemingly untouched by modernity — that has appeared in such iconic Italian films as “La Dolce Vita” and “La Grande Bellezza.”

Michele Alfonsi, a lawyer who heads up Pons Iani , a volunteer group devoted to aqueducts, offered to guide me. “See that?” he asked, pointing to a stone passageway atop massive arches. “That’s the specus of the Aqua Marcia.”

Specus is the Latin term for a roofed channel built at a slight downward slope so that water would run through it without gushing or puddling. This one was nearly high enough to stand up inside.

We clambered up the keystone of the arch, now just a few feet above ground level. When it was completed during the heyday of the Republic, the Marcia was the first aqueduct to bring water to the Capitoline, Rome’s most sacred hill. A small fountain there has been chiseled with the words “Acqua Marcia,” but like modern Rome’s taps, it now spouts a mixture of water from five different founts.

To sample pure Marcia water, I’d need to travel to the source.

‘Where’s the water?’

Sextus Julius Frontinus, the first-century commissioner of the aqueducts, wrote that the fount of the Marcia is near the 36th milestone of the ancient Roman road Via Valeria (roughly 35 miles east of Rome). But I had been warned that the original trenches had been obliterated in 1870 when the Marcia’s long-defunct classical aqueduct was reincarnated as the Acqua Pia Antica Marcia.

“You’ll get close,” said Peter J. Aicher, author of “Guide to the Aqueducts of Ancient Rome,” “by searching for Centro Casetta Rossa Idrico on Google Maps.”

I found the “casetta,” a small red stucco house used by the modern aqueduct’s maintenance personnel, at the edge of a green field. Aside from the inscription “Acqua Pia Antica Marcia 1870” carved over the front door, and the shed-like structures built above springs alongside the road, there was no indication that Rome’s best drinking water originated here.

I took in the rounded hills, hazy blue in the distance, and the Italian cypresses striping their shadows across a little-traveled, two-lane highway. “Where’s the water?” I asked a maintenance man. He pointed down: The underground springs that Quintus Marcius Rex first channeled over 2,000 years ago still bubble beneath this bucolic spot. The only way to plumb Marcia’s depths was to go spelunking.

Which is how, a few days later, I found myself clinging to an exposed tree root on the side of a ravine dropping to the Aniene River east of Rome. “Put your right foot there,” Alfonso Diaz Boj coaxed. “Two more steps and we’ll be at the Marcia’s specus.”

Mr. Diaz Boj, a guide with Sotterranei di Roma , which offers tours of Rome’s underground treasures, was leading a jaunt into the ancient, now-dry aqueduct channels buried near the town of Vicovaro, about eight miles west of the Marcia’s source. Twelve of us met at the Convent of San Cosimato, whose property contains the ruins, to suit up in hard hats and headlamps.

Once we had negotiated the hand- and toeholds and were hunched into the shoulder-high specus, Mr. Diaz Boj pointed to a lozenge of light slanting down from a shaft: “Teams of workers excavated these shafts every 15 meters. When they reached the proper depth, two teams dug toward each other laterally until they joined up.”

We passed bats clinging to the walls, and quills attested to the presence of porcupines. Over the centuries, the Marcia’s water had deposited multicolored bubbles and stripes of calcium on the concrete that Romans used to seal the specus. Mr. Diaz Boj pointed to graffiti scratched into the concrete — mysterious crosses, doodles and the possibly faked signature of Thomas Ashby, the British archaeologist and author of the 1935 “Aqueducts of Ancient Rome.”

After a lunch of lasagna, saltimbocca alla Romana and roast potatoes at the convent, I had a drink from a spigot in the garden. Only later did I learn that Vicovaro is inside the zone that receives the Marcia’s water unadulterated. It was delicious and refreshing, though I can’t say I detected much difference from the mixed water of central Rome.

The Marcia surfaces on arches and bridges several times between Vicovaro and the Park of the Aqueducts, most spectacularly at Ponte Lupo, about 10 miles south of Tivoli. This colossal bridge spanning a deep gorge has been in the hands of the Barberini family since 1633, when Pope Urban VIII acquired the surrounding estate. Guided tours (reserve by email, [email protected] ) are offered occasionally and during the festivals held here in the summer. Fortunately for me, a friend in Rome had arranged a private visit.

Ponte Lupo’s present owner, the actor and activist Prince Urbano Barberini, was waiting for us at the unpaved access road. A trim, handsome man in his early 60s, the prince recounted the site’s recent vicissitudes as he led us down a sloping meadow. When he regained title to the property after a long legal battle, the field and stream around the bridge had been buried in rubbish and frequented by sex workers.

I had seen images of Ponte Lupo, but nothing prepared me for its size and complexity. The original tuff arches carried the Marcia across a steep ravine. Subsequent retaining walls and buttresses have transformed the bridge into a palimpsest of building styles.

“It’s a difficult scramble,” the prince said, gazing up to the precipitous, densely vegetated summit above a dry creek. “Would you like to try?”

I eyed the rugged, tangled sides of the ravine. “Maybe not.”

“Good,” the prince replied, smiling. And we strolled back to the highway.

‘Engineering on a monumental scale’

The Marcia entered Rome on arches at Porta Maggiore , chosen as the entry point for eight ancient aqueducts because of its high elevation on Esquiline Hill. At first glance this busy crossroads near the Termini rail station struck me as rough and forlorn, but I gave it a closer look. Aqueduct arches converge or radiate from every direction. The Marcia’s specus is slotted above a chunky pier built of a volcanic stone called tuff that abuts the gate.

If you tune out the traffic, there is no better place to savor what one historian calls the Roman “knack for practical engineering on a monumental scale.”

It takes about half an hour on foot to trace the Marcia’s path through ancient Rome. From Porta Maggiore, the aqueduct tracked the Aurelian Wall as far as the elegant Augustan arch called Porta Tiburtina. From there, it veered off to follow today’s Via Marsala before emptying into a distribution basin now buried beneath the train station.

The Fountain of the Naiads

After the Marcia was reborn as the Marcia Pia in 1870, the Fountain of the Naiads was conjured up to showcase its purity in the Piazza della Repubblica, a 10-minute walk from Termini station.

Some of Baroque Rome’s most cherished monuments are display fountains, or mostre, celebrating the newly restored aqueducts that once again brought spring water to Rome. The Trevi Fountain is the mostra of the Acqua Vergine, the only aqueduct that has run continuously since antiquity.

But the Fountain of the Naiads is different. Unlike the gravity-fed aqueducts of pre-modern times, the Marcia flowed under pressure created by mechanical pumps, which allowed the fountain’s jets to shoot nearly seven feet high.

Katherine Rinne, the author of the forthcoming “Walking Rome’s Waters,” calls this “the Hugh Hefner fountain” because of its cavorting naked nymphs. It rises in the middle of a busy major intersection. “If you are brave enough to face six lanes of horrendous traffic,” Ms. Rinne said, “you can dangle your feet in it on a hot day.”

Just don’t drink it. Today, the naiads frolic in water that is periodically drained for cleaning and maintenance.

If you are inspired to sip from the source, do as the Romans do and cup a hand under one of the nasoni (big noses) that spout from goose-necked spigots all over town. Two thousand years after Pliny lauded the Marcia as a gift from the gods, Rome’s aqueducts are still lavishing cold, clear spring water on the Eternal City.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Advertisement

STO Slovenska turistična organizacija STO

• Tourist travel information centres

Let the local experts introduce you to the many secrets and curiosities of their towns.

Special offers and packages.

Active getaway

Royal Spa Relax

Juliana Trail self-guided walking tour

Dear readers.

Our mission is to inspire your visit to Slovenia by sharing the excellent and unique experiences Slovenian tourism has to offer at www.slovenia.info . Discover inspiring stories and plan for a time when we are able to travel safely again. Let’s be responsible today for a better tomorrow.

• Recommended

The most reliable source of local information

If you’re looking for more information on a town, accommodation, landmarks and events, there are several tourist information centres across Slovenia that can provide you with the most up-to-date information. Local experts will provide all the information you need to make the most of your stay in Slovenia.

Zoom in to see more

For more information turn to one of the more than 100 tourist information centres.

Google My Business rating

TripAdvisor traveller rating

More information on Slovenia

Before travelling, also check all other practical information.

In its small corner of the world, Slovenia is the only European country lying at the crossroads of the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst and the Pannonian Plain.

Top 10 sights

Must-see attractions in green Slovenia!

Spas and health resorts

Rest, relax and enjoy the soothing power of thermal waters and wellness treatments.

Facts about Slovenia

Slovenia: a land of hospitable people and unforgettable experiences in the heart of Europe.

Stories from Slovenia

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to receive a green piece of Slovenia in your inbox, and learn about holidays, seasonal offers, upcoming events and travel options.

The form contains errors

Please verify the marked fields and try again.

Share with friends

I feel Slovenia Shop - Buy Souveniers On-line

General Terms and Conditions     

The General Terms and Conditions determine the conditions and manner of using the Slovenian Tourist Board’s Media Library services. In the Media Library, users have at their disposal high-resolution photos and audio-visual recordings of the products and services offered by Slovenian tourism, which are to be used solely for non-commercial purposes as defined below.

General rules of application

Registration is required to use the Media Library’s services. Registration is available to any legal entity in the Republic of Slovenia and abroad, regardless of their legal form, whose activities involve marketing, promoting and presenting Slovenia as a tourist destination .

Photos and audio-visual recordings (hereafter: materials) may be used free of charge for all non-commercial publications that constitute promotion of Slovenia as a tourist destination, abroad or in the Republic of Slovenia , in accordance with these General Terms and Conditions.

The right to use the materials is not limited in terms of time or place (the use is permitted in Slovenia and other countries) unless a restriction relating to location and duration of use is specifically provided for an individual item of material .

The Slovenian Tourist Board reserves the right to revoke a user’s right to use certain materials at any time.

The rights acquired based on these General Terms and Conditions may not be transferred to third parties.

Citing the source and authorship

Photos and audio-visual recordings may only be used with consistent citation of author/co-authors and source: www.slovenia.info .

Rights of use

A registered user of the Media Library shall obtain the following non-exclusive economic rights to use the downloaded photos and audio-visual recordings:

• the right of reproduction and distribution,
• the right of making available to the public,
• the right of public presentation,
• the right of including photos in other copyright work.

The above rights refer to all forms of non-commercial and free-of-charge online posts, print media, audio-visual media services and other communication channels, regardless of the type of media (print, digital), which includes:

• Digital catalogues, e-magazines, newsletters (solely for the purposes of free distribution);
• Publication in print and other media that report on the Slovenian tourism products and services or promote Slovenia as a tourist destination;
• Use on social media as part of organic posts (reporting on an event, press releases (solely unpaid posts);
• Printed promotional materials, prospectuses, leaflets, brochures (solely for the purposes of free distribution);
• Promotional events in the Republic of Slovenia and abroad (e.g., tourism fairs, exchanges, workshops, presentations, etc.) that are exclusively or predominantly intended to promote Slovenia as a tourist destination.

The above forms of use include solely a free-of-charge form of using materials for the purposes of promoting tourism activities and services in the Republic of Slovenia or presenting Slovenia as a tourist destination.

Prohibited forms of using materials/commercial use of materials

Using materials for commercial purposes , such as reproduction on postcards, T-shirts, books, magnets, embedding audio-visual inserts in one’s own promotional materials, all forms of external advertising (stationary billboards, digital advertising, etc.), use in advertisements unrelated to the promotion of Slovenia as a tourist destination, use on websites that are not intended to present Slovenian tourism products and services and similar activities, is not included in these General Terms and Conditions and is prohibited .

It is strictly prohibited to use materials on media and distribution channels that are marketed or sold to users (books, school textbooks, other commercial publishing, calendars, postcards, fast-moving consumer goods (clothes and other products), advertising of non-tourism products and services, reproduction of materials on vehicles, etc.).

For more information regarding permitted forms of use, please contact us at  [email protected] .

Audio-visual materials (video)

Using audio-visual materials is allowed only in the unchanged form available in the Media Library . Transformations, adaptations, clips, embeddings, and instances of using individual shots in one’s own audio-visual works, even if intended for promotional purposes, is prohibited.

Breaches of General Terms and Conditions

Any breach of economic and/or moral rights of the authors of photographs or audio-visual recordings may constitute a criminal offence and may result in substantive and damage liability of the user.

The entity breaching copyright pertaining to the material shall reimburse the Slovenian Tourist Board for all the damage incurred to it due to the breach of rights.

The Slovenian Tourist Board shall not be liable for any use of photos and video recordings that is contrary to these rules. The user of the material shall be entirely responsible for the content and manner of use.

General provisions

These Media Library General Terms and Conditions shall apply for all instances of using the material unless the Slovenian Tourist Board and user agree on special terms of using the material in advance and in writing for a specific instance of using the material.

These General Terms and Conditions shall be subject to occasional amendments. Upon the user’s publication of the material, the version of the General Terms and Conditions that is current at that particular time shall apply for the use of materials. If the user disagrees with the amendments made to these General Terms and Conditions, they shall immediately cease using the material and remove it from all media and other communication channels.

For more information, please contact us at  [email protected] .

Slovenian Tourist Board Ljubljana, 1 June 2022

Confirm Cancel

Privacy settings

Essential cookies.

These cookies enable the correct display of content on the website. These cookies are used to show you the appropriate version of the page for your screen size, remember your choice of cookies, and enable the services that you use on the website to function properly (login, registration, etc.).  

Functional cookies

Do you allow us to show you content from other sources on the website and remember your language selection?

Statistical cookies

Do you allow us to collect anonymised data on the viewing of our content? We will improve your user experience.

Segmentation cookies

Do you allow us to record your activities on this website? This allows us to learn about your interests and offer you the features and content about Slovenian tourism that most interest you.

Advertising cookies

Do you allow us to occasionally offer you advertising content from other websites that best match your interests?

I give my consent to the Slovenian Tourist Board to use cookies that enable the display of content (e.g.: audio clips, video clips, images) from other online sources (YouTube, Spotify, etc.) and remember my language selection on the www.slovenia.info website. I also confirm that I have been acquainted with my rights related to the provided personal data.

Personal data controller: Slovenian Tourist Board, Dimičeva ulica 13, Ljubljana Phone: +386 1 5898 550 Email:  [email protected]

I give permission for the Slovenian Tourist Board to record and store anonymised data about my activity on the website, which will be used to provide a better user experience for visitors to the portal in the future. I also confirm that I have been acquainted with my rights related to the provided personal data.

Personal data controller: Slovenian Tourist Board, Dimičeva ulica 13, Ljubljana, Phone: +386 1 5898 550 E-mail: [email protected]

I give permission for the Slovenian Tourist Board to record my activities on the website regarding my visits to individual types of content in order to produce and display better quality content that is of interest to me. As the Slovenian Tourist Board strives to display high-quality and interesting content on the website, it wishes to measure responses to the displayed notifications and content, track user activity on the website, and create user profiles for targeted advertising, and therefore automatically processes and analyses personal data and assesses user interest in displaying and receiving notifications. I also confirm that I have been acquainted with my rights related to the provided personal data.

I give permission for the Slovenian Tourist Board to record and store information about my interests, displays, and clicks on advertising content for the purpose of providing specific, topical, high-quality, and targeted advertising content, as well as for the purpose of measuring the effectiveness of advertising campaigns and limiting the repetition of advertisements. These settings apply to advertisements displayed by the Slovenian Tourist Board via advertising on social media platforms (e.g.: Meta, LinkedIn, etc.), international search engines (e.g.: Google), as well as through online applications and activities that directly address the user. Such cookies allow us to track our campaigns online. I also confirm that I have been acquainted with my rights related to the provided personal data.