| 
The Green Heart of Europe, star history, culture and nature.
Slovenia enchants the visitor with its unique landscapes, wonderful views and small jewels to discover.
Starting from its splendid capital.
Beautiful landscapes, between lakes and mountains and, as always, a particular attention to the environment and sustainability.
An incredible cultural heritage: everywhere, you will find unique and surprising beauties.
But also a country with a great gastronomic tradition.
HOW TO GET TO SLOVENIA
In Slovenia there are 3 international airports but, in fact, only that of Ljubljana, in terms of number of connections, is worthy of consideration. It is located about 10 km from the capital.
Direct daily connections are guaranteed to numerous European destinations, including the UK, Greece, Germany, France and Belgium.
Ljubljana is also the base for arriving by train. The railway station is well connected with Austria, Croatia, Italy, Hungary.
Slovenia Railways operates internal routes and some international routes.
International trains offer comfort and safety. By booking in advance, you can secure quite advantageous rates.
Buses are a reliable and cheap way to get to Slovenia. The connections are quite frequent, in particular with Trieste and Gorizia, in Italy.
GETTING AROUND SLOVENIA
The Slovenian road infrastructures are extremely modern and extensive and allow you to move easily between the main places and the capital.
If you are traveling by car, remember to purchase the appropriate badge, which is mandatory even for just passing through the country. More info from here.
Parking is not particularly difficult, nor too expensive.
The car is ideal for getting around in total autonomy, but it is also a particularly polluting vehicle. And in such a “green” country … it’s not exactly the best.
The bus is ideal for getting around the country. Several transport companies (DBD, Eurobusways, Turanus) offer frequent and fairly rapid connections between the main Slovenian towns, including the capital.
DOCUMENTS AND CUSTOMS
For all citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, a valid identity card is sufficient. For other countries, a passport is mandatory. It is especially recommended to bring the IC card of your minor children, even if you are traveling by car or train. Consult our special section in this regard. Dogs and cats enter freely, as long as they have a health card and a recent certificate from the veterinarian of the ASL of residence, certifying good health. Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies at least 3 to 4 weeks prior to travel. To fly with your animal friends, take a look at this link.
CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE
From 01 January 2007, the Euro became the country’s official currency, replacing the old Slovenian tolar. Almost everywhere, it is now possible to pay directly by credit card and withdraw cash at ATMs. Keep in mind, however, that in some small cities, and less touristy places, you may find it difficult to make payments by credit card. A cash reserve is always recommended. Those who need to enter the bank, keep in mind that it is generally open from Monday to Friday, from 09:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 17:00. On Saturdays, only some branches open from 09:00 to 12:00.
PRACTICAL INFO
NOW
In Slovenia, the clock hands are placed one hour ahead of the Greenwich meridian (UTC/GMT +1). Summer time starts on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October:
- Officially adopted time of the zone: UTC / GMT +1: 00 hour.
- Summer Time: +1: 00 hour.
- GMT time difference: UTC / GMT +2: 00 hours.
ELECTRIC CURRENT
Throughout the country, the voltage is 220 volts, frequency 50Hz. The electrical sockets are of types C and F, which is the most common standard in continental Europe. It is recommended to always use a suitable adapter. For the most provident, we recommend that you take a look at this link.
POSTAL OFFICES
Photo ©, Renaldo La Vulpo
Pošta Slovenije is the company that manages the country’s national post, headquartered in Maribor. Generally, it is identified on the outside by a black font and logo, on a yellow background. Pošta Slovenije in addition to offering all common shipping services, also deals with logistic services, banking, exchange operations and retail sale of printed products.
It has received several awards and certificates for its efficiency and high quality standards. Typically, post offices are open Monday to Saturday, 07:00 to 19:00. Always closed on Sundays.
SHOPS
There are no regulated hours, but a lot depends on the area and, above all, on the period. Generally the shops are open from Monday to Friday, from 08 to 20; on Saturdays, from 08:00 to 13:00. On Sundays they are often closed.
PHARMACIES AND HEALTHCARE
The LEKARNA sign outside the building indicates the presence of a pharmacy. They are generally identified by white writing on a green background. As a rule, you will find pharmacies open from Monday to Friday, from 08:00 to 19:00; on Saturday, until 2.00 pm. Sunday is closing day everywhere. In larger cities, you will always find at least one pharmacy open 24 hours a day.
Hospitals and clinics are present exclusively in the most important Slovenian cities. In small towns, you will find small clinics.
All European citizens are entitled to the same medical treatment available in every EU country. However, remember to always carry your health card with you: otherwise you will always be entitled to treatment, but you will have to pay all the expenses immediately.
Furthermore, please note that health care does not include any rescue and repatriation operations. It is always preferable to sign an association before embarking on the trip.
PHONE
In Slovenia, the Gsm 800/1800 Mhz and W-CDMA 2100 frequencies are used, the same as those of the main European countries. You can, therefore, easily use your Italian or French smartphone…. To call telephones in Slovenia, the international prefix 00386 must be entered, followed by the telephone number. With the reduction of roaming costs, you can easily call from Slovenia using your national rate. A reserve of GB is always included to surf while roaming abroad.
Alternatively, you can use the classic VoIP calls, or make video calls, using a free WI-FI line.