Slovenia holidays - frequently asked questions

Where is Slovenia?

Slovenia lies at the heart of Europe where the Alps meet the Mediterranean. It borders with Italy, Austria, Hungary, Croatia and has a short coastline of less than 50kms. See our maps.

When did Slovenia become an independent country?

1991

Is it easy to drive across the borders into neighbouring countries?

Very easy indeed as Slovenia is now part of the European Union. Border formalities are very simple and our car hire company in Slovenia allows its cars to de driven in neighbouring countries with full insurance cover for a small supplement (except Hungary – please ask for information).

Which language is spoken in Slovenia?

Slovene is the national language but a great deal of the population now speaks English, which is taught in many schools as the second language. In some more rural areas you will find German and Italian spoken but with a phrase book and a little effort you will be able to communicate with the local people.

Can you help me with guide books, maps and phrase books?

Yes, we can supply the best publications to help you get the most enjoyment from your holiday in Slovenia. Ask our UK office experts for their assistance. As well as guidebooks and maps, we can provide specialist publications about specific areas of the country.

What is the cost of living like?

Similar to UK prices.

Are there lots of restaurants and bars?

There are bars and gostilnas (pubs with food) in every town and village – and a good variety of restaurants in most areas, including some award-winning eateries. In Ljubljana there is a fine array of good restaurants as well as bars, cafes and everything else you would expect to find in a capital city. We will send you a list of suggested places to eat and drink with your travel documents.

What is the food like in Slovenia?

Menus are greatly influenced by traditional Slovene ingredients, including meats, fish, wheat, vegetables, cheeses, honey, fruits and salads. The neighbouring countries of Italy, Hungary and Austria have also had their influences. Most places (with a bit of warning) are happy to cater for special dietary requirements.

Is the wine good in Slovenia and what does it cost?

Slovene wine is excellent. Choose from the rich, earthy Teran reds of the Karst region or the crisp white wines of the east. You can visit and buy wines directly from wine-producing farms and cellars very reasonably. Ask about our wine tasting holidays.

I'm a vegetarian - will I be catered for?

Yes, most definitely. Salads and vegetables are of very high quality and vegetarian food is widely available. Let us know of any special dietary requirements you may have and we will advise your host at your accommodation where necessary.

What about driving in Slovenia?

Slovenia has an excellent network of well-maintained roads and the maps we provide are accurate. Our car hire company will ensure that your vehicle is in excellent condition and will provide you with 24-hour back-up assistance. All cars must drive with headlights on at all times.

Is it safe to drive in the winter?

All cars in Slovenia have to change to winter tyres from mid-November and also have to carry snow chains. The main roads are generally kept clear and again our local car hire experts will give you any advice you may need.

Do I need an international driving licence?

Not if you have a new pink European Photo licence, which is credit-card size. If you have the more familiar UK green licence, you should obtain an International Driving Licence. This is a simple process and such licences can be obtained from the RAC, AA, Greenflag or the Post Office.

Can you hire mountain bikes?

Yes - mountain biking is very popular and bikes are widely available. Some of our properties offer their own mountain bikes for hire. Please ask for information.

What about taxis in the main cities?

Taxis operate in larger towns and tourist areas; a meter is mandatory in Slovenian taxis.

Do the Slovenes celebrate Christmas and the New Year?

Yes they do and Christmas is a major family celebration. Almost all of our hotels and farmhouses will put on special celebrations and let their guests know what is going on the area. The Slovenes really know how to party and New Year is the time for much celebration!

Do you really know all the hotels, apartments and farmhouses personally?

Yes we really do! Having handpicked all of the accommodation, we can give you detailed advice and opinions about every single property that we feature. That is the advantage of dealing with a specialist company. Please bear in mind that the tourist farms, as well as hosting guests, are still very much working farms with all the appropriate noises, occasional country smells and sights.

Annual public holidays

January 1 & 2: New Year
February 8: Preseren Day, Slovene cultural day
Easter Sunday: date as per the UK
Easter Monday: date as per the UK
April 27: Day of Uprising against the Occupation (1941)
May 1 & 2: May Day holiday
Pentecost: date as per the UK
June 25: Slovenia Day
August 15: Feast of the Assumption
October 31: Reformation Day
November 1: All Saint's Day
December 25: Christmas Day
December 26: Independence Day