travel to slovenia from ireland

Everything you need to know before you come to Slovenia

Mar 5, 2022 • 7 min read

Slovenia blends Italy's romance with the country calm of the Balkans © AzmanL / Getty Images

Slovenia is a borderland, marking the transition between Mediterranean Europe, Alpine Europe and the Balkans. It's a complex synapse between cultures and topographies, perched where the Adriatic and Eurasian tectonic plates collide, drawing traditions from both sides of the divide.

If this is your first visit to Slovenia, you’ll find landscapes born of the Alps and the Adriatic , and a culture that’s an amalgam of all of its neighbors – Italy to the west, Austria in the north, Croatia and the Western Balkans to the south and Hungary to the east.

It's no surprise that travelers are attracted to this famously outdoorsy Central European country. Travelers are often drawn to the edges – to points where coastlines meet the sea, where mountain ranges greet the sky, and where heritages intertwine. Slovenia’s complexities and contours all contribute to its allure.

Navigating this country – small in size but a heavyweight when it comes to adventure and discovery – isn’t difficult, but understanding how to do it better will only increase the pleasure of traveling here.

Planning your trip to Slovenia

Here are some things to prepare for before you reach Slovenia.

Start with “Good Day”

Slovenes speak Slovenian, and as this is a Slavic language, it can be a little challenging for English speakers. Monoglots need not worry, however. Since Slovenian is rarely spoken outside Slovenia, locals often speak English well, and German and Italian are also widely spoken. It still doesn’t hurt to have a few local words on hand. Dober dan is “good day,”  pro sim is “please,” and hvala is” thank you.”

Take advantage of tourism cards

Travelers are often reluctant to invest in city tourism cards out of skepticism about the savings possible from free or reduced prices. In Slovenia, that's a mistake, as these cards are good value when you consider the discount provided at most of the spots you’ve come to see. They also serve as a list of the area’s top sights to tick off your list. In most cases, the card will pay back your investment after only a few sights have been visited.

Many spots around Slovenia have discount-filled tourist card schemes, including Ljubljana , Maribor , and Bled , and prices are very reasonable. The 48-hour Ljubljana Card costs €39, for example, but that price allows free entry to many of the main attractions and even includes a free bus ride to and from the airport.

Plan to visit all areas of the country

It's easy to get swept up in the beauty, proximity, romance, and popularity of Slovenia’s western half. Attractions stuffed into this area include the capital, the Julian Alps , the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, the Soča Valley , Lake Bled , Lake Bohinj , the country’s Goriška Brda wine communities, the hilly Karst Region , and the Adriatic Coast .

But for those who want to really experience Slovenia, it would be a travesty to miss the nation’s eastern side. Culturally leaning towards the Balkans, this half of the country is just as interesting and beautiful, and because of the buzz surrounding western Slovenia, it's also less crowded.

Start exploring in Maribor and Ptuj , connected by the Drava River in the northeast corner of the country. You'll find a slew of spa and wellness resorts peppering the country’s central-eastern region that are well worth unwinding in. And for history buffs, no trip to Slovenia would be complete without a trip to the Sava River in the southeast, where dramatic castles punctuate the landscape.

Etiquette in Slovenia

Break the ice by speaking to locals.

Slovenians won’t immediately say hello to strangers like Americans often do. That doesn’t mean they aren’t friendly, just a little reserved. However, one of the chief joys of being in Slovenia, especially in mountain villages, is speaking to the locals for tips on things to see and do.

Making contact is not just about saying hi, it’s also a great way to learn experientially about the country. Travelers with a penchant for trekking in particular will benefit from directions and tips from locals, and sharing a cup of coffee or a glass of schnapps, is part of the camaraderie of hiking in Slovenia. Slovenes are, by nature, dedicated to their homeland, so every encounter is an opportunity to learn the lie of the land.

Walk or cycle when you can

Slovenes are an active and practical bunch. Where possible, citizens often prefer to get around on foot or by bicycle, rather than always jumping behind the wheel. Using your own power to move around isn't just a good way to keep fit, it's often faster and more convenient than waiting for public transport.

Travelers unused to a place that makes full use of its bike lanes will probably get an etiquette lesson soon after arriving. Walking accidentally into the designated cycle lanes will earn you a bell ring and potentially a stiff word or two.

Conveniently, there are bike rentals in many spots around the country if you want to join the throng. In the Slovenian capital, the public BicikeLJ bicycle-sharing system makes it easy and cheap to explore without ever putting a key into a car’s ignition. Tourist information offices, hotels and outdoor activity operators rent out decent quality mountain bikes for highland exploring. 

Mix it up in Ljubljana

Ljubljana is rightly one of Slovenia's top destinations, with incredible sights all over the city but don’t leave without taking in Ljubljana’s alternative side. From the well-touristed city center, leave the scenic square of Prešernov Trg and head east along Trubarjeva cesta, passing busy street food establishments, cafes, and bars.

Continue on to the Metelkova area of town, which has become Ljubljana's de facto art district. What were once military barracks have today been reinvented as studios and hedonistic nightclubs. You'll also find two of the most interesting museums in the country – the Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova and the National Museum of Slovenia – Metelkova .

Take advantage of Slovenia's free itineraries

Slovenia's tourism authorities have created a number of free routes for independent travelers, with the goal of equipping DIY explorers with the tools needed to visit less touristy spots around the country in a responsible and sustainable way, often by hiking or cycling .

The advantages for travelers are obvious. These routes come with abundant free and easy-to-use information that will get you off the beaten track, providing a chance to see rural Slovenia up close with minimum impact. The country benefits too – visitors moving at human speed are naturally dispersed, alleviating traffic and over-tourism problems in more popular locales.

Perhaps the top itinerary is the Juliana Trail , an easy-to-follow hiking path that circumnavigates Triglav National Park . The Bike Slovenia Green: Alps to Adriatic cycling route rolls from Kranjska Gora to the Adriatic, while the Walk of Peace trail treks along the Soča River – one of Slovenia's most beautiful spots for hiking and kayaking.  

Cyclists with strong calves should try the newly launched Slovenia Road Cycling Loop , which takes road warriors around the country to the best climbs and descents. And for multi-discipline types, the Slovenia Green Solčava Panoramic Route combines both cycling and hiking in the mountains north of Ljubljana.

Health and safety in Slovenia

If you plan to trek off the beaten track, there are a few things to know.

Sort out your gear before you hit the trails

If you are planning to hike in Slovenia – especially in mountainous areas above 2000m (6500ft) – it's important to carry the right equipment. Regardless of your normal outdoor practices back home, if you want to challenge yourself with some mountain summit attempts, pack and use a mountaineering helmet. Rockfalls are a risk, whether you are climbing or trekking.

If you have more ambitious plans to tackle multiple via ferrata routes while you’re here, invest in your health and safety by renting or buying a harness for clipping in. Gear is usually available for rent in areas with via ferrata cables, but you can get onto the routes more quickly with your own harness, lanyards, gloves and helmet.

Trekking safely

While some Slovenian trekking routes are well-trodden, the country has more than 9000km (5590 miles) of trails, and it's easy to get off the beaten path, particularly at higher elevations. Always tell somebody where you are going, trek in a group (or a pair) and check the weather conditions and the latest information about the route before you set off. In an emergency on the trails, contact the Mountain Rescue Association of Slovenia (GRZS) by dialing 112.

You may also like: 6 incredible places to swim in Slovenia: From beaches and sand bars to Lake Bled Get to know Chef Ana Roš in 22 questions The best things to do in Slovenia from the mountains to the sea

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TRAVELSLOVENIA.ORG – All You Need To Know To Visit Slovenia

How to get to slovenia.

Slovenia is situated at the historical and geographical crossroads of western, northern and southern Europe, so it is not a surprise that it’s well connected to the rest of the continent in all direction.

Arriving to Slovenia by Car

Driving is by far the most convenient way to get around Slovenia, especially for those who would like to explore this beautiful country outside of the handful of cities and towns. The roads are generally in very good condition and well-marked, and if you ever find yourself lost (and without some sort of navigation in the car, on your smart phone or other electronic device) friendly locals are usually glad to point you in the right direction. There are service stations and petrol stations every 30 kilometres on the motorways. Petrol stations are also common in the cities and in smaller towns. If arriving from abroad, don’t forget to immediately purchase a vignette sticker for your winscreen, which is used on Slovenian motorways instead of paying tolls.

Arriving to Slovenia by Air

Slovenia’s most important international airport is the Ljubljana Joze Pucnik Airport (LJU). It makes access to all of the cities, towns and sights in Slovenia convenient from most anywhere in the world. Lots of info for the airport, including all onward ground transport options, can be found at the official site of the airport at www.lju-airport.si. Alternatively, the nearby airports in Klagenfurt, Austria (KLU), Trieste, Italy (TRS) and Zagreb, Croatia (ZAG) are also popular points of arrival for tourists headed to Slovenia, as they offer many connections on European budget airlines, while Venice’s Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is less than 2 hours away by car and has the best international connections in the wider region.

Arriving to Slovenia by Train

Trains to Slovenia run every day from numerous European cities. A full timetable and price info can be found on Slovenian Railways’ very user-friendly site at www.slo-zeleznice.si.

Arriving to Slovenia by Bus

Buses to Slovenia run every day from numerous European cities. Most of Slovenia’s international bus connections go directly to Ljubljana, where transfers can be made to national bus operators. Prices and journey times from Ljubljana to the major towns in Slovenia are comparable to trains, but run much less frequently at the weekends. With a little luck, timetables and some prices can be found on the official website of Ljubljana Bus Station at www.ap-ljubljana.si.

Arriving to Slovenia by Sea

In the summer season (April, May, June, July, August, September and October) catamarans and hydrofoil boats operate frequent routes from Venice, Trieste, Porec and Rovinj. Cruise ships occasionally dock at Koper. If arriving in Slovenia in sailing vessels, motor boats or yachts (or on your own vessel), you should know that entry to Slovenia is only permitted at the ports of entry in Koper and Piran (and Izola from May to October).

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Please, as my wife cannot see to read a computer screen, will you send me some printed brochures, especially as to Lake Bled area. Many thanks – looking forward to our first visit.

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Good to know - Cheap tickets from Ireland to Slovenia

Faqs for booking flights from ireland to slovenia, how does kayak find such low prices on flights from ireland to slovenia.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Ireland to Slovenia.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Ireland to Slovenia?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Slovenia from Ireland is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Ireland to Slovenia?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to Slovenia with an airline and back to Ireland with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Ireland to Slovenia?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Slovenia from Ireland up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top airline flying from Ireland to Slovenia

The plane was so hot upon boarding. Their boarding process was so unnecessarily long. Service was subpar.

Everything from the price to online checkin and the flight being on time to the crew and food was very good. The comfort level is fine--the seats are very close to each other in Economy. But I guess you get what you pay for.

The Zurich airport is a disaster with to small trains running between the terminals, the trains was overfilled (not good in Corona times). It was no directions in the airport with proper lines so you did not know if you ere standing in the right line. They checked your passport 3 times in the airport = a lot of standing in line. Service on the plane could be a lot better, The cabin crew could have offer more to drink (water, coffee, tea), the food sucked.

Horrible experience. I was apparently picked at random for a security screening - that was the most demeaning experience I have had in my life with a guy poking and prodding and having me take off my shoes, move up my pants so he could swab my legs - telling me I couldn't bring more than some quantity of cookies - I had 3 boxes of cookies in my luggage. In the end he did let me keep them but that was really uncalled for. Harrassment in the name of security.

Everything was on time and efficient - expected from a Swiss crew. But the entertainment system was pretty bad - the display was old. Food was pretty bad and a couple of times they started serving drinks and then just skipped past my row (and likely several others)

Bag lost. Lost bag recovery process is an unsatisfying customer experience. Because 1) bag is still lost but also 2) the process is outdated and form-heavy and 3) in our case also involved a long line.

Wheelchair was the excellent service. I didn’t have any food or used entertainment. Overall for my trip experience was excellent. Thank you very much and keep up good work. Best regards

Delay on take if- short connecting time- was supposed to have a wheelchair to connecting flight- limped with a cane thru the airport to make a connection

Crew took my carry on and checked it in; turned out to be a blessing; however the luggage was delayed at my final destination; receiving it 36 hours later. Thought, we'd get, at least water; but the Swiss chocolate was delicious. Thanks.

A lot of things could have been better. They lost our luggage. We missed our connection from YVR to Naples when we arrived in Zurich and then we got re-routed to Rome and then Naples. We eventually got to Naples but our bags didn’t. Our experience at the lost luggage in the Naples was not at all reassuring. They didn’t seem that interested in our problem. I did a live chat with Swiss customer service and all they could do is tell me to follow the process. Meanwhile we’ve had to spend significant money on clothes and I have to replace medications. This has meant our trip so far has been totally different than what we had planned. It’s not clear that our baggage will ever show up which means we will have lost significant amount of clothing and other things and our two month trip to Europe will have more problems than good memories. So far we are not happy.

Flights to Slovenia

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Faqs - booking slovenia flights, how does kayak find such low prices on flights from dublin to slovenia.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Dublin to Slovenia.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Dublin to Slovenia?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Slovenia from Dublin is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Dublin to Slovenia?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional return ticket. You could then fly to Slovenia with an airline and back to Dublin with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Dublin to Slovenia?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Slovenia from Dublin up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Slovenia

• Morning departure is around 3% cheaper than an evening flight, on average*.

Top airlines flying from Dublin to Slovenia

Super friendly crew. Leg space and entertainment system are below average

The plane was so hot upon boarding. Their boarding process was so unnecessarily long. Service was subpar.

Flight was delayed for 4 hours and they misplaced my luggage too. Appalling.

They went out of their way. It was very clean and friendly.

Not exceptional but all good. Business class seats are like the domestic Mint class on Jet Blue. Comfortable but not exceptional. Food is good but not superb. Flight attendants were better on India leg than Miami to Zurich. All India staff was more professional and service oriented. Very polite and service with a smile.

United Airlines flights serviced by Swiss Airlines provide for zero communication with Swiss Airlines almost impossible to contact Swiss airlines to make seat selection, upgrades or changes. I won’t do that again if it can be helped.

We were very impressed with Swiss Air. The service was exceptional. Unfortunately, we had a baby behind us that screamed for hours. , It was a nightmare, though I completely understand that it was not Swiss Airs fault.

A lot of things could have been better. They lost our luggage. We missed our connection from YVR to Naples when we arrived in Zurich and then we got re-routed to Rome and then Naples. We eventually got to Naples but our bags didn’t. Our experience at the lost luggage in the Naples was not at all reassuring. They didn’t seem that interested in our problem. I did a live chat with Swiss customer service and all they could do is tell me to follow the process. Meanwhile we’ve had to spend significant money on clothes and I have to replace medications. This has meant our trip so far has been totally different than what we had planned. It’s not clear that our baggage will ever show up which means we will have lost significant amount of clothing and other things and our two month trip to Europe will have more problems than good memories. So far we are not happy.

We had to move to terminal 5 for the next part of our trip. Very un-organized and difficult.

Horrible crowding on the seats, headphones provided did not fit or work in the entertainment center, seriously the most uncomfortable flight I have taken in a LONG time. The people in front of me were literally 5 inches from my face the entire flight. Did they change their seats recently? I remember it being tight but wow this was a whole new level. Also I am a 5'3" small woman so I can't even imagine a larger person dealing with that for 11 hrs.

Always a pleasure to deal with United's helpful and knowledgeable saff

Check in crew in Charlotte NC was superb. There were 6 of them plus what looked like a supervisor, helping to answer questions and keep things moving. Never saw so many check in crew. Then some of them showed up at the gate later for boarding. Great. The flight was mediocre. The seats were small with little leg room. The screens kept coming on when we were trying to sleep and wouldn’t shut off. I know we paid far less than first class but does that mean we should be shoved in there??

Very poor, flight cancelled, no help from Lufthansa customer service.

1. Food provided was not per the selection. 2. Very old and outdated media infotainment and not much language oriented films 3. Better provide with a proper headset rather cheap in ear headphones.

Boarding is as always an issue. Slow and long boarding time.

You need to reimburse me for my seats purchased and luggage.

I didn't like much about this flight. Almost no entertainment choices...and not available what was listed. Food not good.

They left us in the bus for 10 minutes in front of the aircraft, without an open door or window: people started to get sicuramente from the geat. The seats are so close to the seat in front that my knees were jammed into the seat, causing me lot of pain even after the flight.

Loved the chocolate treat in the very short flight and the legroom (it was an exit seat) and the service was awesome, very polite and helpful to all.

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Luxury Holidays to Slovenia

The nation of Slovenia lies in Central Europe, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, turquoise glacial lakes, and medieval cities. The small but mighty country, once part of Yugoslavia, is topographically diverse, touching both the Alps and Adriatic Sea at the crossroads between Central and Southeast Europe. A destination renowned for its stunning natural beauty, its verdant landscapes are dotted with hundreds of fairy tale castles and charming scenes of countryside life. Celebrated Lake Bled conjures postcard-perfect scenes of peaceful waters with a leafy islet and the towering mountains as its backdrop. When you embark on luxury holidays to Slovenia, don’t forget its humble capital of Ljubljana, home to picturesque waterways, traditional farmers’ markets and beautiful examples of baroque architecture divided between expansive green stretches of parkland.

Our tailored luxury holidays to Slovenia promise outstanding value with stays at our luxury partner-properties and extraordinary experiences with our super-connected partners. We ensure a seamless trip, taking care of all the little extras including fast track, flights, accommodation, and private transfers.

POCKET GUIDE TO SLOVENIA

Built on the banks of the emerald green Ljubljanica River, Ljubljana is Slovenia’s capital and largest city. Its rich history is characterised through its architecture with traces of the Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau visible in the house fronts and ornate doorways of the city centre and the charming bridges dotted along the river. A cultural hub, Ljubljana is home to many theatres, museums, and galleries as well as one of the world’s oldest philharmonic orchestras.

OROKO Top Tip

Luxury holidays to Slovenia are not complete without an in-depth exploration of the country’s culinary heritage. Head to the idyllic alpine village of Bohinj where you can indulge in a cheese tasting at an alpine cottage. After an adventure-filled visit to the Skocjan Caves, what better to refuel than at a local restaurant with a food & wine pairing? Head to the famed wine region of Gorizia to enjoy a wine-tasting at two of the best-known vineyards.

Best Time to Visit

Slovenia is glorious during the warm summer months and is the perfect time for hiking enthusiasts to explore the country’s mountainous environs. The best time of year to truly enjoy Slovenia’s unbridled nature is in spring or autumn, when the countryside colours are at their most dazzling. With a wide variety of pursuits on offer – including climbing, hiking and adventure sports, a luxury holiday to Slovenia can be enjoyed at pretty much any time of year.

Unmissable Moments

The picturesque, bluish-green Lake Bled, featured on many a holiday postcard, without a doubt, ought to be top of your ‘must-see’ list during your Slovenian adventure. Surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the Julian Alps and the Karavanke, featuring a 17th-century Baroque church on an islet in the middle of the lake and overlooked by a rugged, medieval, cliffside castle, Lake Bled is arguably one of Slovenia’s most popular tourist destinations and should not be missed.

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Slovenia holidays.

Uncover one of Europe’s hidden gems with us on one of our Slovenia holidays. Situated between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, this country has plenty to offer with amazing scenery and landscapes just waiting to be explored.

Holidays in Slovenia

Holidays in Slovenia have something for everyone and if this country isn’t on your bucket list, make sure to add it and tick it off with Travel Department. Our expertly created itineraries guarantee you get the most out of your holiday and discover every inch of this breath-taking destination.

Discover the quaint capital of Ljubljana on your Slovenia holiday by walking amongst the historic buildings and getting a taste of the country’s rich culture with an abundance of cafes and markets. Take a panoramic boat trip around Lake Bled and take a closer look at the stunning glacial waters, medieval castle and, of course, the stunning Slovenian Alps.

If you enjoy being by the water, holidays to Slovenia combine history and coastlines with the Postojna Caves and picturesque towns of Piran and Koper. No matter what type of holiday you’re looking for, all of our holidays to Slovenia from Ireland include return flights, accommodation, all transfers and an exciting array of excursions with a local guide.

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Top places to visit & tourist attractions in slovenia.

Located in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is Slovenia’s most iconic destination, and for good reason. Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, the lake is home to the perfectly picturesque Bled Island, known for its iconic church steeple peeking above the dense evergreen treetops. Adding to the breathtaking beauty of this extraordinary place is Bled Castle, which overlooks the entire area from the top of a cliff on the lakeside. On our holidays to Slovenia, we’ll explore the beauty of Lake Bled with a boat trip to Bled Island.

Triglav National Park

Slovenia’s only national park, Triglav, is known for housing some of the most impressive scenery in the entire country. In addition to the soaring Julian Alps, the park contains the impressive Lake Bohinj, the largest lake in Slovenia. Less well known, but just as beautiful as Bled, Lake Bohinj is a popular spot for fishing, swimming and hill walking. On our holidays to Slovenia, we’ll take a cable car trip up to the park’s Mount Vogel to marvel at the striking views before enjoying a panoramic drive around the lake.

A city of only 280,000 people, Slovenia’s capital is easy to explore by foot, taking in its charming, leafy streets and historic buildings. The Ljubljanica River is located at the heart of the city, boasting beautiful bridges and trendy cafés along its banks. Dominating the city’s skyline is Ljubljana Castle, a must-see for history buffs. Accessible by funicular from the Old Town, the castle now houses a museum, restaurant and gallery. On our trips including Ljubljana, we’ll explore all of these sites and more with a guided city tour and plenty of free time.

Postojna Caves

Stretching on for an impressive 24,340m through Slovenia’s karst region, Postojna Cave is the second-longest cave system in the country. Forged by the Pivka River, the caves have been a popular tourist attraction for decades, with a cave railway transporting visitors through the limestone tunnels and passages for the past 140 years. Uniquely, a large open part of the cave known as Congress Hall, is now used as a venue for music and theatre performances, conferences and even weddings! On our trips to Slovenia, we’ll visit these incredible caves and learn about their history from an expert guide.

Holidays & Tours In Slovenia

Slovenia may be best known for the iconic Lake Bled and it’s imposing medieval castle, but there is so much more to see within this spectacular country! On our holidays to Slovenia, we’ll visit the country’s snow-capped mountains, charming ski resort towns, glacial lakes, Mediterranean coastline, and historic cities. At each destination, we’ll have a combination of free time to explore and guided excursions with an expert, local guide to provide the history and stories behind the attraction. We offer a selection of trips to Slovenia that include something for everyone. Combine other Adriatic countries like Venice and Croatia with the highlights of Slovenia on our 7-night holiday or enjoy a short 5-night break to delve a little deeper into Slovenia. We also offer a perfect mix of sun and sightseeing on our holiday to the Slovenian Coast including the Gulf of Trieste.

Slovenia Holiday FAQs

What is included in my holiday.

Travel Department holidays include flights, transfers and hotel accommodation on bed and breakfast, half board or full board basis, and excursions as specified.

All items that are included are clearly stated in our documentation. Add-ons such as insurance, bags and single room supplements are mentioned separately. In some cases you may have to pay a local departure tax or local transport cost. This will be detailed in your documentation and our local guides will assist you with these. Tipping is not included in your holiday price and information regarding tipping will also be included with your travel documents.

Will I be met at the airport?

You will be met on arrival at your destination airport and transferred to your accommodation. You will be accompanied on all included excursions by your Travel Department guide. Your expert local guide is also available to give you tips and advice on any aspect of your holiday.

What is the deposit and when is full payment due?

Deposit is required on booking and is dependent on your holiday type and starts at €100pp for city breaks. Full payment is due 10 weeks before departure hence if you book less than 10 weeks from departure full payment will be due when you book.

Do I need a Visa?

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• Georgina Willcox
• 21 December 2023

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The Top 10 Safest Countries In Europe To Visit in 2024

D reaming of a European adventure but prioritizing safety? It may be difficult to decide where to travel with so many nations to choose from. Living in or visiting a nation that is deemed “safe” is undoubtedly a luxury, but when it comes to vacations and international travel, it’s sometimes an afterthought. Planning your vacation might go more smoothly if you are aware of which nations are considered safe for visitors to visit before booking your trip. The following list compiles the top ten safest European nations to go to in 2024, along with some key safety indicators like crime rates, political stability and healthcare systems. Let’s find you the perfect European haven for your next unforgettable escapade.

Why Does Travel Safety Matter?

There’s usually a list of “must-haves” that a country has to have, regardless of whether you visit or plan to live there permanently. We are all familiar with the typical must-haves: stunning scenery, advanced infrastructure, a wide range of activities, etc. All of the aforementioned elements are important to Nomad Capitalists, but we also give top priority to things like tax breaks, a welcoming business climate, and investment opportunities.

However, safety is the one consideration that takes precedence over all others. Even if the nation became the most developed, tax-free investment destination, people would still be afraid of touching it with a rod if they felt insecure. Fortunately, Europe continues to be the world’s most tranquil continent.

The Top 10 Safest Countries In Europe to Visit

A safe environment consists of several layers. Not every safety talk touches on issues of law and order or violent crime statistics. Safety also includes general perception, healthcare and the political environment. In light of everything, the safest nations in Europe are:

Iceland has remained on top of the list of safest countries in Europe for ten years in a row. Known as “the land of fire and ice” because of its untamed terrain, it is regarded as one of the safest regions in Europe because of its persistently low crime rate, excellent standard of living and unnecessary reliance on unarmed police.

Iceland boasts robust social networks and a deep sense of community. Nearly 98% of Icelanders claim to know someone they can depend on in an emergency. One of the key benefits of living on an island with a tight-knit community is that crime rates remain low because people know one another and can support one another in situations of need. It is also the third happiest nation in the world, based on the World Happiness Report.

Even if you’re traveling alone, the nation is among the safest countries in Europe for female travelers. Schedule a visit to this secure European nation to increase your chances of seeing the fabled Northern Lights. Make a reservation for the Blue Lagoon for a tranquil activity where you may let your thoughts drift away and harmonize with the opulent surroundings.

Denmark is the second safest country in the world and Europe, and it is also the birthplace of the concept of utter contentment (Hygge). But this nation is renowned for more than just safety; it has a lot to offer visitors, whether they are traveling alone or with a big group of friends. Some of the attractions are LEGO, the Tivoli Gardens and even enjoying a nice Carlsberg beer. You’ll be departing with tales from one of Europe’s safest nations that someone like Hans Christian Anderson would be proud of.

Books, legends and a pint of Irish Guinness. The time has come to get to know  the Emerald Isle if an Irish tour isn’t the last thing on your mind. The Republic of Ireland is ranked third among the safest European nations by the GPI. It is distinct from Northern Ireland, a constituent of the Kingdom of Great Britain.

This little country takes great pleasure in its lush surroundings, its musical talents and its ability to pour the ideal pint. The nation also offers one of the lowest corporation tax rates in all of Europe. We’ve even highlighted Ireland as a great travel destination for single female travelers because of its comparatively low crime rate and low threat levels. Leave Dublin behind and immerse yourself in the fabled tales of bygone eras in other counties like Cork and Limerick; you never know what you could find. Furthermore, the Irish passport is regarded as one of the strongest five passports globally for its excellent freedom of travel.

Austria, which is renowned for its regal and ancient castles and palaces, comes in second place among the safest nations in Europe. But it’s not only architecture, either. Classical music enthusiasts can honor well-known composers like Mozart and Beethoven by swaying along in Vienna. Should your tour happen to arrive in the winter, you may enter the magical Christmas markets and experience a sensation equivalent to being within a joyous snow globe. Find out more about the best places to travel to in Europe during the winter.

Portugal, which completes the top 5 safest countries in Europe, enjoys cordial relations with its neighbors, a very low crime rate, and its armed forces. The country in southwest Europe has high levels of safety, in part because of the presence of security officials. Portugal is also safe politically, as its connections with other nations are cooperative.

In addition, the nation experiences over 300 days of sunshine on average, so visitors may be lucky to experience pleasant weather while touring. Take a tour of Portugal in the spring or summer and return feeling rejuvenated. Leave Lisbon behind and explore the city before expanding your horizons to include the other towns. Saying “yes” to a vacation in this secure European nation is the only thing left to do.

Slovenia is a country with breathtaking scenery, untamed lakes and elaborate cave networks. Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, was voted the Open City of Europe in 2016 because of its completely car-free city center, abundance of open areas and changes to the traffic laws that promote environmental health and sustainability.

But having beautiful scenery by itself doesn’t guarantee a place among the ten safest nations in Europe. Slovenia excels in several areas besides environmental safety. With almost 90% of recorded criminal charges being theft, it ranks high among the countries with the lowest levels of crime in the world. Slovenia deserves a spot on your next trip destination since it has a plethora of medieval castles, lots of recreational opportunities, and the cleanest atmospheres you’ll ever experience.

Switzerland

An excursion to Switzerland is sure to leave you craving more cheese, chocolate, and timepieces. Its long-standing neutrality has played a key role in keeping Switzerland safe, stable, and free of all bloodshed. The Swiss people are an exceptional nation because they have always lived in a tranquil environment free from instability or the threat of conflict. The nation has been able to focus on more vital issues like social welfare and growth because of the prolonged era of peace. Switzerland is now at the top of the Human Development Index.

Were you aware that Switzerland maintains one of the largest rates of gun ownership worldwide? Despite being known for being a major exporter of weapons, it has managed to keep its crime rate extremely low. That’s the extent to which the government’s gun control measures work.

The Czech Republic

Czechia, or The Czech Republic is a well-liked travel destination with a rich cultural heritage and a high level of security within Europe. There is little chance of terrorist threats, communities frequently coexist peacefully and the cost of medical services and other necessities is comparatively lower.

Finland is a deserving destination to be included in the list of the safest European countries. The country is proud to share the statistic that 11 out of 12 misplaced purses are given back to their owners. This country is a delight in every season, home to Lapland, the largest island in the world, and untamed wilderness.

Furthermore, Finland is the second-safest nation according to the Women’s Peace and Security Index, making it a safe sanctuary for lone travelers. Therefore, you can confidently pack your bags and reserve your next trip to this stunning nation if you’re a woman hoping to view the northern lights. If you like to avoid crowds, consider taking a trip in the fall, right before the holiday season.

The Republic of Croatia

Croatia ranks bottom among the ten safest European nations, surrounded by historic walls and terracotta roofs. Even when it came to the safest places to walk at night—which is frequently a top concern for women traveling alone—it came in second. Croatia is a strong candidate for any upcoming European trip plans you may have, given its Mediterranean climate.

Safe Travels!

Now that you are aware of the safest countries in Europe, pack your bags and embrace the peace of mind! Whether you crave the rugged beauty of Iceland or the charming canals of Amsterdam, Europe offers a wealth of safe and unforgettable travel experiences. Remember, this list is a jumping-off point, and further research can help tailor your choice to your specific interests.

While these countries consistently rank highly in safety, it’s important to remember that vigilance is key anywhere you travel. Staying informed about current events, researching specific destinations, and practising common sense will go a long way in ensuring a smooth and secure European adventure. With a little planning and this handy guide, your European adventure is sure to be as safe as it is spectacular.

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How I learned to love the slow route home to Ireland

Journeys are about so much more than getting from A to B, as our writer found when he ditched flying for the train and ferry between Dublin and London

T here’s always a moment in the journey from Dublin to London – which I make every month or two, taking the land-and-sea route via Holyhead instead of flying – when I stop what I’m doing – reading or writing or chatting to the person next to me – and think: you don’t get to enjoy this from 40,000ft.

Sometimes it’s at the Britannia Bridge in north Wales. As the train crosses the Menai Strait from Anglesey I can see, off to my right, a concrete statue of Lord Nelson keeping a lonely watch from the shore, and further upriver the grounds of Plas Newydd country house sweeping down to the water. To the left, on a tiny island with a curved jetty, stand two handsome whitewashed houses that will one day disappear beneath the rising sea levels but for now are holding out against the elements.

I’ll pause again as the train trundles past Conwy, with its hulking medieval castle and absurdly pretty waterfront, home to the smallest house in Britain, and later still as we move along the coast beyond Colwyn Bay, and legions of offshore wind turbines can be glimpsed through the haze.

On the return journey, as the ferry heads into Dublin Bay, I’ll cast an eye at Howth Head as it rises up to greet us, followed by the crimson lighthouse at the end of the Great South Wall and the looming red and white chimneys beyond – the unmistakable sign that we’re about to dock in the Irish capital.

People often ask me why I choose to travel between Dublin and London by ferry and rail instead of flying, which is considerably less time-consuming. I’ll respond by talking about the price, or the breezy check-in process with minimal luggage restrictions, or the direct connection into central London, or the carbon emissions, which by one estimate are about 95% lower than going by plane . But the little details – the things you see, the people you meet and the reveries you enter as the journey’s lulling rhythms take hold – matter to me almost more.

When I moved to London in 2002, the idea of taking the slow route home to Dublin didn’t occur to me. Going by air was quick: you can fly city to city in under 90 minutes, though of course you have to factor in the time it takes to get to the airport, clear security, wander through duty-free, wait to board, wait to take off, and go through the associated rigmarole on the other side. And it’s cheap.

Then, about 15 years ago, a friend tipped me off about SailRail, a package that bundled train and Irish Sea ferry tickets into a single fare – connecting not only to London but to any town across Britain with a station. I was dubious about the duration but the price was keen – these days it’s £102.20 return, but back then it was about half that – so I decided to give it a try.

I’ll be honest: I didn’t love SailRailing straight away. Train travel is one of life’s great pleasures but in Britain it can curdle to frustration in the face of delays, cancellations and broken-up routes. It took me a while to work out how to time my journey so I didn’t have to change trains in Crewe and again, 20 minutes later, in Chester. And Holyhead, for all the surrounding beauty of Anglesey, is not a town that makes the heart leap – not, at least, the stretch between the terminal and the ferry dock, which on even the sunniest afternoon feels oppressively grey.

The ships – Irish Ferries and Stena are the two options on the Holyhead-to-Dublin route – can feel dated and a bit tacky, and if you strike out from Dublin on a match day, you have the choice of watching football supporters getting stuck into cooked breakfasts and pints at 8am or joining them. The crossing can be rough, though it would take a serious gale to unsettle one of the bigger boats when its stabilisers are out. (In that kind of weather, I’d rather take my chances on a 50,000-tonne ferry than a dinky commuter plane.)

If you travel with Irish Ferries, which I tend to do, this unfolds within a literary theme park of unparalleled incongruity. The flagship Ulysses is riddled with allusions to James Joyce’s masterwork: you can eat reheated pizza slices (but not pork kidneys) at Boylan’s Brasserie, drink tequila slammers at the Leopold Bloom bar or engage in soft play at the Cyclops family entertainment centre. (The faster ferry, often cancelled if the wind picks up, is ingeniously named the Jonathan Swift.)

Despite – or perhaps because of – these idiosyncrasies, I kept returning for more. For years, I’d SailRail to Dublin and fly back; the journey out of London Euston tends to be smoother, especially if you catch the direct train to Holyhead departing about 9am. But since moving back to Dublin in 2020, I’ve ditched the air option and now actively look forward to my day meandering across the Irish Sea and down through Wales and England. The journey takes eight or nine hours, but without internet to distract me I usually get a solid day’s work done, or at least have time to read and think.

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Some distractions are welcome. When the Icelandic volcano eruption grounded European air travel in 2010, I got chatting to two fellow SailRailers on the train out of London. One, delightfully, was the actor who played Gestapo agent Herr Flick in the sitcom ’Allo ’Allo!. The other became a really good friend – and I often thank the ash clouds of Eyjafjallajökull for introducing us.

More recently I’ve fallen into conversation with touring graffiti artists, septuagenarian world travellers and a woman who found God after getting lost in the middle of the Sahara (she prayed for help and a crow appeared to guide her back to safety). Last autumn, when my partner and I took our whippet-saluki over on a morning sailing (pet-friendly cabins are available on Stena) he was lavished with attention by an elderly Traveller couple who told us about similar dogs they’d loved over the years.

The Traveller community uses the ferries a lot, following a route that Irish people with UK connections have taken for centuries. You’ll also encounter plenty of truckers, as well as students, backpackers and people who are averse to flying. What you don’t get a huge number of, among the SailRail contingent, are British tourists. When I mention the package to friends and colleagues in London, few of them have heard of it. And when I tell them the fare, which doesn’t shoot up for last-minute bookings, they’re astonished: £51.10 from London to Holyhead and then on to Dublin by boat? You’re joking, right?

Still, I rarely recommend SailRail without a string of caveats. It isn’t to everyone’s taste. And it could be so much better than it currently is – the rail connections are unreliable and foot passengers on ferries are often treated as afterthoughts. But despite its foibles I’ve come to enjoy the easy pace of the journey and offbeat crowd it throws together. I’ve even developed a fondness for those Joyce allusions.

And I love that long, slow train ride along the north Wales coast, past castles and wind turbines and island houses doomed to vanish beneath the waves. A journey is so much richer and stranger when you travel close to the ground.

SailRail tickets from London Euston to Dublin Ferryport from £ 102.20 return (+ booking fee) via trainline.com

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