Ljubljana

Slovenia is in the eurozone, so the currency is the euro. Cards are accepted virtually everywhere, including markets and small cafés. Cash comes in handy for the airport bus (the driver accepts cash only) and at flea markets.

Ljubljana is one of Europe's safest capitals, with a crime index of about 22 out of 100. The main concern is pickpockets on public transport and near the train station. The Fužine and Moste districts aren't dangerous, just uninteresting for tourists. The center is pedestrianized, calm, and well-lit even at night.

The historic center around Old Town (Stari Trg) and Prešeren Square is ideal – everything is within walking distance. The Rakovnik area along the river is quieter and cheaper, about a 20-minute walk to the center. A hostel bed in the center starts at €20–24, a 3-star hotel at €60–120 per night.

Bus line 28 costs €4 and runs hourly, with the last departure at 8 PM. The Nomago shuttle is €12 and drops you closer to your address. Taxis cost around €30, taking 30–40 minutes. There is no direct train from the airport.

Lunch at a local restaurant (gostilna) runs €8–14 for a main course. Coffee is €1.50–2, a pint of domestic beer €2–3, a glass of wine €2–3. On Fridays, the Central Market hosts Open Kitchen – street food from €5 per serving.

If you plan 2–3 days of active sightseeing, yes. The card (€31–45 for 24–72 hours) includes the funicular to Ljubljana Castle, a river cruise, entry to 20+ museums, and unlimited city bus rides. It pays for itself in one packed day.

Top picks: Lake Bled (bus €6–8, 1 hr 15 min), Postojna Cave + Predjama Castle (bus €7, 1 hr), Piran on the coast (bus €8–13, 1.5 hrs). With a car, you can also reach Kranjska Gora and the Vršič Pass.

Slovenia is in the Schengen Area – Russian citizens need a Schengen visa. Travel insurance is mandatory for the visa application and covers medical expenses. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your return date.

Free Wi-Fi is available in most cafés, hotels, and across the city center squares. For mobile data, the easiest option is to get an eSIM before departure. Local carriers (A1, Telekom) sell tourist SIMs, but activating an electronic card before your flight is faster.

May–June and September–October are optimal: warm (18–25°C), fewer tourists, lower prices. July–August is peak season, with accommodation costing up to 30% more. Winter suits transit to ski resorts, but many outdoor city activities shut down.