Welcome to Slovenia 😊
Slovenia is a small country in central Europe known for its natural beauty, rich culture and warm hospitality. With its stunning alpine scenery, pristine lakes, and charming towns, Slovenia is a true gem waiting to be discovered. The country is also known for its delicious cuisine, fine wines, and outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and cycling. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Slovenia has it all.
Quick Facts About Slovenia
- Currency: Euro
- Population: 2.1 million
- Languages: Slovenian
Money and Finances
The currency in Slovenia is the Euro. Coins come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents and 1 and 2 euros. Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros.
ATM Network
ATMs are widely available throughout Slovenia, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. It is generally easy to find an ATM that accepts foreign cards.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in Slovenia and are generally easy to use. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards, with some merchants also accepting American Express.
Internet and Phones
Slovenia has a average internet speed of around 30 Mbps for both uploads and downloads. There is no government interference in internet use.
Phone Plans and SIM Cards
The main telco companies in Slovenia are A1 Slovenia, Telekom Slovenije and T-2. The average cost for a mobile phone plan is around EUR 20-30 per month. SIM cards are easily available and there are no major sim compatibility issues.
Dialling to Slovenia
To call Slovenia from another country, dial +386 followed by the area code and phone number. The area code for Ljubljana is 01, while other major cities have different area codes.
Transport Around Slovenia
Air Travel
Slovenia has one major airport, Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, located just outside the capital city of Ljubljana. It serves as the main hub for international flights in and out of the country.
Train Travel
Slovenia has a reliable inter-city train network operated by Slovenske železnice. From Ljubljana to Maribor, the journey takes around 2 hours and a one-way ticket costs around 15 euros. From Ljubljana to the coastal city of Koper, the journey takes around 2.5 hours and a one-way ticket costs around 10 euros.
Metro / Local Trains
There is no metro system in Slovenia.
Buses
Slovenia also has a well-established bus network, with many routes connecting different cities and towns. A one-way ticket from Ljubljana to Bled, a popular tourist destination, costs around 6 euros and the journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Rideshare
Uber and Bolt are both available in Slovenia, with average prices similar to those in other European countries.
Driving by Car
Driving in Slovenia is relatively easy, with well-maintained roads and clear signage. The speed limit on highways is 130 km/h, while on smaller roads it ranges from 50-90 km/h. Slovenia uses right-hand drive.
Local Customs
In Slovenia, tipping is generally expected in restaurants, bars, and cafes, with 10% being the typical amount. Locals greet each other with a handshake and maintain eye contact during the conversation. Speaking with strangers is generally polite and reserved, and it is common to address someone with their professional or academic title. Men and women typically address each other formally, using titles such as gospod (Sir) and gospa (Madam).
Health and Diseases
Medical System
Slovenia has a public health insurance system which covers a wide range of medical services. For visiting a doctor, the approximate cost is around 20-30 euros. Private healthcare is also available, but it can be expensive. It is recommended to have comprehensive travel health insurance before visiting Slovenia.
COVID Situation
Slovenia has implemented strict measures to control the spread of COVID-19, including mandatory mask-wearing in indoor public spaces and a curfew. The current rate of coronavirus in Slovenia is low, and the country has a relatively small number of confirmed cases compared to other European countries.
Common Health Risks
While Slovenia is generally a safe country, there are some health risks to be aware of. These include tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, in forested areas, and food and waterborne illnesses, such as hepatitis A and E. In some regions, there is also a risk of encephalitis transmitted by ticks. It is recommended to take precautions such as wearing long clothing and using insect repellent to avoid tick bites, and practicing good hygiene and food safety practices to avoid food and waterborne illnesses.
Laws and Regulations
Alcohol Consumption
In Slovenia, the legal age to purchase and consume alcohol is 18. It is prohibited to serve alcohol to individuals who are visibly intoxicated. Public drunkenness is also forbidden.
Recreational Drugs
Recreational drug use in Slovenia is illegal and can result in imprisonment. Possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use has been decriminalized, but trafficking and distribution is still illegal.
Pre-Marital Relationships
There are no specific laws in Slovenia that regulate pre-marital relationships. Cohabitation before marriage is common and generally accepted.
LGBTQ and Same-Sex
Same-sex sexual activity has been lawful in Slovenia since 1976 and the country has recognized same-sex partnerships since 2006. However, the adoption of children by same-sex couples is not yet allowed.
Firearms / Guns
Slovenia has strict gun laws. Firearms are governed by the Weaponry Act, which requires gun owners to have a license and register their weapons. Open carry is not allowed, and concealed carry is only allowed with a special permit.