Slovenia’s stunning alpine landscapes, charming medieval towns, and rich cultural heritage make it a top European destination, where understanding how to handle money is key to a smooth experience. Whether you’re exploring the picturesque streets of Ljubljana, hiking around Lake Bled, or enjoying local wines in the countryside, this guide covers everything you need to know – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Slovenia (Euro (EUR)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and enjoy Slovenia’s natural beauty and vibrant culture without financial worries.
How to pay in Slovenia – cash or card?
In Slovenia, both cash and card payments are prevalent, with a growing trend towards electronic transactions.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While urban centers may offer card payment options, many buses and local transport services still require cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Purchases at traditional markets and street stalls are predominantly cash-based.
Small Businesses: Many small or family-run shops and eateries prefer cash transactions.
Tips and Gratuities: It’s customary to tip in cash for services such as dining, tour guides, and hotel staff.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, electronic payment facilities may be limited, making cash essential.
You can use card for:
Hotels: Major hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: Many dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets commonly accept cards.
Car Rentals and Travel Agencies: Established agencies typically offer card payment options.
Online Bookings: Reservations for flights, hotels, and tours can usually be made using cards.
What’s the best currency to take to Slovenia
Euro (EUR) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Slovenia. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, some rural regions and smaller establishments may prefer cash payments. Therefore, it’s advisable to carry some Euros in cash to avoid inconveniences.
Other currencies, such as US Dollars or British Pounds, are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Slovenia
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Slovenia. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Slovenia
Visa and Mastercards are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Slovenia
If you’re withdrawing money in Slovenia from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Some of them accept American Express cards. Others like JCB, UnionPay, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Slovenia
There is no need to exchange money before traveling to Slovenia, as the official currency is the Euro (EUR). If you already have Euros, you can use them directly for all transactions.
Withdrawing EUR from ATMs in Slovenia is easy, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check your bank’s international withdrawal fees.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas, so carrying a mix of cards and some cash is advisable.
If you need more cash, banks and exchange bureaus in Slovenia offer fair rates, though airport exchange offices may have higher fees. Since Slovenia uses the Euro, withdrawing or exchanging money after arrival is straightforward if needed.
Where to withdraw money in Slovenia
You can withdraw money in Slovenia at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Slovenia are those owned by popular banks such as:
Delavska,
Intesa Sao Paolo,
Unicredit, and
Addiko Bank.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Slovenia.
Where to exchange currency in Slovenia
You can exchange currency in Slovenia at licensed exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Slovenia, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Menjalnica. These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include Exchange Offices in Ljubljana: Several exchange offices are located in the city center, particularly around Prešeren Square and the Old Town. Operating hours typically range from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays.
Banks: Major banks such as NLB Banka, Nova KBM, and SKB Banka offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays.
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Slovenia.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash in Slovenia safe?
Carrying cash in Slovenia is generally safe due to the country’s low crime rate. However, petty thefts, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation. It’s advisable to carry only the cash you need for daily expenses and keep your valuables secure. Establishments in urban centers do widely accept credit and debit cards but some smaller establishments, local markets, or rural areas may prefer cash payments.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Slovenia
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
