Frequently asked questions about holidays in Slovenia

Here’s a small selection of some of the questions we’re sure you’ll have about holidaying in Slovenia. Of course we won’t have the answer to every question you might have, so please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01373 814230 and ask away. For anything that’s not immediately at our fingertips, we’ll do a bit of research and give you a call back once we’ve found the answer.

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.

When did Slovenia become an independent country?

Slovenia gained independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 and joined the European Union in 2004.

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?

We will send a guidebook, with our compliments, (currently Lonely Planet), with your final documents, around 2-3 weeks before travel, but you will also find other publications such as Rough Guide, Sunflower, Berlitz and DK Eyewitness guides available online or in your local book store.  We have also found the AA Roadmap of Austria, Switzerland and Slovenia very useful for navigation, however all rental vehicles are supplied with GPS SatNav as standard.

Are there lots of bars and restaurants?

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.

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. It is a requirement in Slovenia for restaurants to list allergens on menus, however it would be advisable to also mention any food allergies to your server.

I’m vegetarian – will I be catered for?

Yes, most definitely.  Salads and vegetables are of a 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 we will send you location maps and driving directions to your accommodations.  Our car hire partners 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 pink European photo licence.  If you have the old UK green paper licence please check with us first so we can ask our agent for the most up-to-advice as it may be necessary to obtain an international driving licence.

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 us for information.

What about taxis in the main cities?

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

Annual public holidays

• 1st & 2nd January: New Year
• 8th February: Preseren Day, (Slovenian Culture Day)
• Easter: dates as per the UK
• 27th April: Day of Uprising against the Occupation (1941)
• 1st & 2nd May: Labour Day holidays
• Pentecost: date as per the UK
• 25th June: National Day
• 15th August: Feast of the Assumption
• 31st October: Reformation Day
• 1st November: All Saint’s Day
• 25th December: Christmas Day
• 26th December: Independence Day