Flights to Slovenia

Getting around

Distances are short, and Lake Bled is under an hour from Ljubljana by bus or car. Buses are often quicker than trains for the lakes and mountains, while trains link Ljubljana with Maribor and the coast. Hiring a car makes it easy to reach the Soča valley and the Vršič Pass, which is closed in winter. Motorways need an electronic vignette, bought online before you drive.

History

The Slovene lands were ruled by the Habsburgs for centuries, then became part of Yugoslavia after the First World War. Slovenia declared independence on 25 June 1991, followed by a ten-day conflict, and was the first former Yugoslav republic to join the EU, in 2004. It adopted the euro in 2007.

Lakes, valleys and caves

Lake Bled has a church on its only island, reached by traditional pletna boats, and a castle on the cliff above. Lake Bohinj, inside Triglav National Park, is quieter and wilder. The Soča river runs a vivid turquoise past Bovec and Kobarid, popular for rafting and walking. Underground, Postojna Cave is toured by a little train, and the Škocjan Caves are UNESCO-listed. Piran, on the coast, is a Venetian-style harbour town.

Entry, money and time

British visitors don't need a visa for short stays, but passports must meet EU entry rules, and the Entry/Exit System applies. The euro is the currency. Traffic drives on the right. Slovenia is one hour ahead of the UK all year. Check current UK government travel advice and your insurance before you go.

When to go

May to September is ideal for lakes, hiking and rafting, with July and August busiest at Bled. Autumn brings golden forests and wine harvests, and winter offers skiing in the Julian Alps.

Planning to fly into Ljubljana and home from Venice? Call 020 7871 4545 and we'll check the options.