Slovenia Travel Information

Slovenia is a hidden gem in the heart of Europe, offering stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. Here are the top 10 things to do in Slovenia:

1. Visit Lake Bled

Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia, with a stunning emerald green lake surrounded by majestic mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, or boating on the lake.

2. Explore Ljubljana

Ljubljana is Slovenia's capital city and offers a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and festivals. The city also has a charming old town, with picturesque streets and stunning architecture.

3. Visit Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave is one of the largest and most visited caves in Europe. Visitors can take a train ride through the cave and marvel at the stunning rock formations and underground rivers.

4. Hike in Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park is Slovenia's only national park, offering stunning natural scenery and numerous hiking trails. The park is home to Mount Triglav, Slovenia's highest peak.

5. Visit the Skocjan Caves

The Skocjan Caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer an incredible underground world of stalactites, stalagmites, and underground rivers. Visitors can explore the caves on guided tours.

6. Taste Slovenian Wine

Slovenia has a long tradition of winemaking, and visitors can enjoy delicious wines in the many wineries throughout the country. Wine tours are a popular activity, offering a chance to learn about the local wine culture.

7. Soak in Thermal Spas

Slovenia is home to numerous natural thermal spas, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. The thermal waters are said to have healing properties and are a popular attraction for visitors.

8. Visit Piran

Piran is a picturesque coastal town on the Adriatic Sea, offering stunning views of the sea and beautiful Venetian-style architecture. Visitors can explore the old town, with its narrow streets and beautiful squares.

9. Visit the Lipica Stud Farm

The Lipica Stud Farm is one of the oldest stud farms in Europe and is home to the famous Lipizzaner horses. Visitors can take guided tours and watch horse shows.

10. Explore the Soca River Valley

The Soca River Valley is a beautiful area of Slovenia, with crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can enjoy rafting, kayaking, and hiking in this beautiful region.

Slovenia has a varied climate due to its location between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea. Here is an overview of Slovenia's climate and the best time to visit:

Climate

Slovenia has a continental climate in the north and a Mediterranean climate along the coast. The summers are warm and sunny, while the winters are cold and snowy. The weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountainous regions, where temperatures can drop rapidly.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Slovenia depends on the type of experience you are looking for. The summer months of June to August are the most popular for outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the country's natural beauty. The weather is warm and sunny, and many cultural events and festivals take place during this time. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and crowds can be overwhelming.

The spring months of March to May and the fall months of September to November offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit. This is a perfect time to explore the cities, cultural attractions, and wineries in the country.

The winter months of December to February are ideal for skiing and winter sports. Slovenia has excellent ski resorts in the Julian Alps and the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, offering a range of skiing and snowboarding options.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Slovenia has a range of hotels, from luxury to budget, offering comfortable and convenient accommodation for visitors.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a popular option for those who prefer a more traditional and personal experience. They offer comfortable rooms and breakfast, and are often located in scenic areas.

Hostels

Hostels are a popular choice for budget travelers and backpackers. They offer shared dorms or private rooms at an affordable price and often have communal areas for socializing.

Apartments

Apartments are a great option for those who want a little more space and privacy. They offer self-catering facilities and are ideal for families or groups of friends.

Campsites

Slovenia has a beautiful countryside, and campsites are an excellent option for those who want to experience nature and the outdoors. They offer basic facilities and a chance to connect with nature.

Glamping

For those who want to experience the great outdoors but don't want to rough it, glamping is an excellent option. Slovenia has numerous glamping options, ranging from luxury tents to treehouses.

Farm Stays

Farm stays offer visitors a chance to experience rural life in Slovenia. Visitors can stay on working farms and enjoy the fresh produce and rural hospitality.

Boutique hotels

Boutique hotels are becoming increasingly popular in Slovenia, offering a unique and personalized experience. They often have a specific theme or style and are perfect for those looking for a luxurious and unique stay.

Car rental

Car rental is a popular option for visitors who want to explore Slovenia independently. Several international car rental companies have offices in Slovenia, and there are plenty of local rental companies as well.

Public transportation

Slovenia has a reliable and affordable public transportation system, including buses and trains. There are also local buses in most towns and cities, making it easy to get around.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Slovenia, and fares are regulated by the government. However, they can be more expensive than public transportation or car rental.

Bicycle rental

Slovenia has a well-developed network of cycling paths, and renting a bicycle is an excellent way to explore the country's natural beauty. There are numerous bike rental shops throughout the country, and many hotels and guesthouses also offer bike rentals.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is legal and common in Slovenia, particularly in rural areas. However, it is not recommended for solo travelers, and visitors should take necessary safety precautions.

Guided tours

Guided tours are an excellent option for visitors who want to explore Slovenia with an expert guide. There are many different types of tours available, including walking tours, food tours, and adventure tours.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.