Depending on traffic conditions, 2.5 to 3 hours are enough – and then you’re already out of Slovenia. But the country is actually far too good to just drive through. Here’s what you can experience there.

If you are coming from Austria, your route into the country and on to the capital Ljubljana will take you through the Karawanken Tunnel, one of the longest tunnels in Europe at almost 8 kilometers. A second tube has been under construction here since 2018 and is due to be completed in summer 2025. The first tube will then be closed and completely renovated. Please note: the journey through the tunnel is not included in the highway toll and must be paid for separately before entering.

Spectacular views

Incidentally, the tunnel is located in the Julian Alps: this mountain range offers you plenty of spectacular views on your onward journey.

Perfect for a relaxing break: the capital Ljubljana, which invites you to take a city tour in green surroundings, and the short but beautiful coastline on the Adriatic Sea. On the way there, the historic town of Kranj is also worth a stop. Just a short detour from the A2 highway, the picturesque Lake Bled with the island of Blejski Otok and its castle on the northern shore also offers relaxation. Don’t miss: the Bled cream slices, best enjoyed in Café Park with a fantastic view of the lake.

Rich and delicious: the Bled cream slices. Photo: iStock

Definitely worth a stopover is the Postojna cave system, which is just two kilometers from the A1 freeway. The second largest caves in the world that are open to tourists await you here.

Very well-equipped rest stops

Less spectacular, but usually very well equipped: the rest stops in Slovenia. Here you will often even find regional specialties such as “žlikrofi” (dumplings) and “kranjska klobasa” (Carniolan sausage). The largest in the country is the Lukovica service area. It is located on the A1 highway between Ljubljana and Maribor and offers a wide range of facilities for long-distance drivers. These include spacious parking facilities for trucks, modern and clean toilets and showers, green areas and picnic tables and, last but not least, security services to ensure the safety of vehicles and drivers.

What did you like best about Slovenia? We look forward to your comments!