Getting around Slovenia: transport and apps

The vignette

Slovenia sits on the road between Austria and Croatia, and a very large number of visitors are simply driving through. The vignette catches them.

• An e-vignette is compulsory on motorways and expressways for vehicles under 3.5 tonnes.
• It is electronic and registered to your number plate. There is no sticker.
• Buy it before you join the motorway - online at the DARS portal, at petrol stations near the border, or at kiosks.
• Check the plate you enter, including the country letters.
• Cameras enforce it automatically and the fine is substantial.
• Rental cars usually have one, but confirm it in writing.
• Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes pay tolls instead, on a different system.

Trains and buses

• The country is small - Ljubljana to the coast or to Maribor is around two hours.
• Buses often beat trains for speed and frequency, particularly to Bled and the coast.
• Slovenske zeleznice runs the trains, cheap and pleasant, with a scenic line through the Bohinj tunnel to the Soca valley.

Bled and the Alps

• Bled has no railway station of its own worth the name - Lesce-Bled is a few kilometres away.
• Buses from Ljubljana are the practical route and run frequently.
• Vintgar gorge and the Julian Alps require timed entry in season; book ahead.

Driving in the mountains

• Winter equipment is compulsory from 15 November to 15 March and whenever conditions require it.
• The Vrsic pass is spectacular and closes in winter.