Renting a car in Slovenia is the best way to explore this magnificent country. Below is my complete guide on how to rent a car in Slovenia, covering:
- which type of car is best,
- tips on best rental companies and reducing costs,
- insurance recommendations,
- essentials to avoid any scam,
- rules and regulations,
- …
I have tried listing everything you may need to know to enjoy a worry-free car hire experience.
Renting a car in Slovenia – Overview
Do you need a car in Slovenia?
It depends what kind of holiday you want. But if you want to be able:
- To enjoy some of the hidden gems
- Visit a place early before the crowds or at sunrise such as Lake Bled or Piran.
- Be flexible to adapt to the weather
- Explore all around the country
Then renting a car is the best option. Below are a few locations that you could enjoy with a rental car:
Is it difficult to drive in Slovenia? Is it safe?
Driving in Slovenia is quite easy, generally safe and on the right side of the road.
The road are in excellent conditions. The road signs are clear and consistent with those used throughout Europe.
Just be careful with the frequent thunderstorms or with being distracted by the beautiful landscapes.
I have never felt unsafe on the Slovenian roads.
You might read bad stories on the Internet. But remember that all the hundreds of thousands of people who did not have any issues, did not write so on the Internet!
Absolutely essential tips – from my personal experiences
If you don’t want to read the entire article with the step-by-step to renting a car in Slovenia, here is a short summary of my top tips:
- Any size of cars and any type of powers will manage the roads of Slovenia. That being said, avoiding the smaller cars will make the drives up the mountains more comfortable
- Book early to get the best prices and the choice of cars
- Always check the car upon arrival and take pictures of anything you see (don’t forget the roof and under the bumper)
- Always check with your rental company if you can cross borders!
- Spiked tires or snow chains are mandatory during the Winter months
The booking platform I personally use
You will see a lot of mentions of Discovercars.com throughout this article.
This is the platform I personally use and one of the best customer-rated comparison sites on the market.
As soon as I decide on a destination and dates, I go check their deals and car types.
I have found some really deals times several times.
Plus, they have a practical coverage option at great price that will cover you in case of damage to the outside of the car.
Check out their current car rental deals in Slovenia
#1 to 3 – How to rent a car in Slovenia – required elements
Tip 1 – License to rent a car in Slovenia
To be able to drive in Slovenia, you must have either:
- a valid EU license
- or a valid license of your country + an International Driving Permit
US, Canadians and UK drivers must carry an International Driving Permit on top of their valid driving license.
You must also always carry a proof of ID.
Tip 2 – Extra age requirements / years of driving
Official driving age in Slovenia is 18. However, most car rental companies in Slovenia
- will require you to be 21
- will require you to have held a license in your home country for two years or more,
- may add charges, if you are under 25,
- may add charges, if you are over a certain age.
It’s best to make sure to read all the fine print.
On the platform Discovercars.com you can enter your age, to see any limitation in rental cars available and any additional fee.
Tip 3 – A credit card that can handle the hold charge
Remember that unless you have decided to purchase a full coverage insurance directly with the rental company, you will be asked for your credit card to hold a charge a.k.a. a deposit (on top of the payment). This amount is blocked on your account via your credit card and refunded once the car is returned without any damage.
As it is on top of the payment, you may be hitting the limit of your credit card daily/weekly or monthly protection limit.
So be prepared! Your options are:
- Use a different credit card for the hold charge,
- Contact your bank prior to traveling to change your limits,
- Purchase a full coverage insurance with a 0 excess charge.
On the platform Discovercars.com:
- once you open one option, you can click on Rental Conditions, and you will see the Security Deposit amount.
- And if this is an issue for you, you can pre-select the amount you are willing to have blocked as security deposit in the filters
#4 & 5 – When and where to hire a car in Slovenia
Tip 4 – Best period
Slovenia is a popular destination, especially in Summer.
So, if you want the choice of your vehicle types and good prices, it is better to rent your car as early as possible.
You won’t find last-minute deals in Summer. As soon as you have picked your dates, book the car!
Tip 5 – When and where
You don’t need a car when visiting Ljubljana.
Therefore, if road tripping around the country, you can rent your car after visiting the capital city or bring it back before heading to the capital.
The largest car rental hubs in Slovenia are:
- The Ljubljana Airport – see car rental deals
- The town of Ljubljana car rental – see car rental deals
- The port of Koper – see car rental deals
- The Ljubljana train station – see car rental deals
#6 to 10 – What type of car to choose
Tip 6 – Recommendations for size of car / power – does size matters?
I know it depends on how many people are traveling and how much luggage you are traveling with.
But here are a few things to keep in mind when traveling in Slovenia:
- Roads and parking spaces are overall wide – so you can choose a large car
- Mountain roads are not that steep. Cars with all levels of power can drive around the country. However, it is of course more comfortable if you don’t choose the smallest engine
Tip 7 – Transmission type – Manual vs Automatic
Most cars to rent in Slovenia have a Manual Transmission.
Most companies have automatic cars, but they are often more expensive. And there are less of them, so book early.
On Discovercars.com, you can use the filter “Automatic transmission” on the left, if this is a must have for you.
Tip 8 – Fuel choice – Diesel, Gas or electric
- Unleaded petrol is called “Neosvinčen bencin (95 / 98)”
- Diesel is called “Dizel”
- There is no clear winner as a choice here
- See the concentration of electric car charging stations, where you are going on this website
Tip 9 – Is it useful to have a 4WD?
Not at all.
Plus, know that even if you have a 4WD, the insurance protection associated with the rental probably does not cover use of the car out of paved roads.
This is frequent in many countries. Read the fine print.
Tip 10 – Consider vehicles with sleeping options
Another idea is to rent a vehicle in which you can sleep. Overall, this could save you money compared to booking extra accommodations.
- Wild camping is not allowed in Slovenia
- There are camping sites and camper stops (without amenities) around the country – learn more
You can find some of these vehicles on Slovenia Camper for example.
All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates, map and tips) in my travel guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Slovenia road trip:
Plan your dream trip in Slovenia thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 100+ pre-selected locations
- 16+ extra ideas
- GPS + info to make the most of your time
- 190+ original photos to help you choose
#11 to 17 – Best rental car companies in Slovenia
Tip 11 – Cost of car rental in Slovenia
To give you an idea, based on data from Discovercars.com, prices are around:
- There are big variations throughout the year – The average prices vary from 20 to 65 USD per day
- The cheapest prices are generally for when you travel in April or October
It is very easy to compare prices online on platforms – but if comparing between sites, remember to check all hidden fees.
Compare car rental prices in Slovenia
Tip 12 – Things to consider when choosing your car rental company
- First, of course, the company must have the type of car your needs
- Then, check out the cancellation fees – on Discovercars.com, cancellation is free
- Authorized milage – depending on what you are planning, have a look at unlimited or defined daily milage allowance
- The pickup location – some require a shuttle to the get to the rental area
Tip 13 – Best rated car rental companies in Slovenia
On the platform Discovercars.com, each rental company has a mark on 10 points. This is an average of the marks given by actual customers – Don’t forget that on Tripadvisor or Google for example, anyone can write a review even if they have not used the company. On the search page, you can select only the best rated ones:
Some of the best rated rental car companies in Slovenia are:
- National
- Sixt
- Enterprise
Tip 14 – How to save money – cheap car rental in Slovenia
If keeping the cost down is your main concern, you should:
- Book very early
- Return the car where you picked it up
- Book a smaller car
- Pay attention to pick-up and drop-off times – Car hire is typically charged per 24-hour period
- Choose a rental without cancellation or with limited cancellation
- If renting for 6 days, check the price for 7 days – sometimes companies have a discount for 1 week rentals.
- Book with limited milage
Tip 15 – Check opening hours if picking a company not at an airport
If you are picking up your car at the airport, the companies are normally open as long as flights are arriving.
However, if you are renting a car from a town, especially a smaller one, they will have shorter opening hours (especially on weekends). This may mean that you have to rent for an extra day if you can’t drop off the car.
Tip 16 – Car rental scams in Slovenia
There is no specific scam in Slovenia, that I am aware of.
As in most country, if the price is very very low, then there must be conditions and tricks behind it.
My advice is to always take the time to check the car and take date pictures at pick-up and drop-off.
Tip 17 – Be careful if crossing borders
From Slovenia, you could also visit Austria, Italy, Croatia and Hungary.
However, that implies crossing borders.
This is not allowed by all rental companies. And for others, there are fees included.
If renting with Discovercars.com, once you selected a car you can click on “Rental conditions” and then again “Rental conditions” or “Additional conditions” to find the “geographical restrictions”.
If it is not documented, you can add the question for customer support to answer.
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#18 to 20 – Understanding Insurances
Tip 18 – Choose the types of insurance you need + requirements in Slovenia
Many levels of insurances are available. And their wording is often not very clear.Here is a high-level overview of the different types of insurances – which are not really insurances, but waivers to limit your liability:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) – It limits the customer’s responsibility during the rental period and sets the maximum amount of money the customer will have to pay in case of damages (some will reduce the deposit to 0)
- Theft Protection (TP) – this waiver limits your liability up to the vehicle’s deductible/excess amount in the event the car is stolen (proof required are a police report and the car keys). TP is frequently included in the car rental price.
- Third Party Liability (TPL) – also known as Supplemental Liability Insurance, Extended protection, liability protection… – it covers personal and material damages caused to other people’s cars, property and even medical expenses. They have different limits.
- and many others…
The mandatory insurance in Slovenia are:
- Slovene third party liability insurance is mandatory for all vehicles – it is included in rental cars. And if you bring your own car to Slovenia, EU insurance is fine, just have your proof of insurance with you.
Tip 19 – 4 ways to purchase insurance
- Option no insurance – apart from the mandatory one, you don’t have to take extras. Just know that in case something happen, you can be liable for your entire deposit.
- Option 1 – Use your credit card insurance/ or your own car insurance
Many credit cards have some kind of coverage for rental cars. They all differ.
Similarly, your home car insurance can be covering you as well when renting a car.
You need to read all the fine prints to clearly understand what is covered or not. - Option 2 – Purchase upon booking your rental car
When you book your rental car, you normally have the option to select the insurances you want. The deals are most of the time better than at the counter (I have seen 3 times less, once).
On direct websites, you get the dealer’s insurance, but on platforms, you get a special insurance created by the platform.
For example, on Discovercars.com, they have their own Full Coverage Waiver Insurance Option.
Personally, this is what I used. I know I may already be covered by my credit card and all, but this just seems the easier route, more straightforward in case of an issue. Personal feeling.
- Option 3 – At car rental
This is the more expensive option, but if you have not done it before, you could purchase it as you are paying. - Option 4 – Travel Insurance
Get a travel insurance that include comprehensive car rental insurance with one of the classic insurance companies.
Tip 20 – Consider taking roadside assistance
Technically, it is not an insurance, but it is offered at the same time.Conditions of coverage vary but they normally include:
- Loss or damage of car keys
- Keys locked inside the car
- Flat tire
- Rental car not starting
- Car out of fuel
If you are in a country you don’t know, traveling alone and not good at changing tires, this could be a great option.This is something you can get at the counter when getting the car.
#21 to 23 – Extras
Tip 21 – Do I need GPS?
To navigate, you can consider renting a GPS.
- Option 1 – Bring your own GPS
This is my favorite options. I know how it works, plus I can pre-enter all my destinations which saves me a lot of time.
In my travel guide eBook you get the GPS coordinates of the carparks of all my favorite locations - Option 2 – Use your phone
If you have a phone, don’t forget that the roaming charges abroad can be very expensive.
However, you can download a map beforehand, when you are connected to wifi, so that you can navigate without spending money.
Don’t forget the charger and your phone holder so that it is comfortable! - Option 3 – Take the GPS extra
I don’t recommend it. I think this is a last resort if you don’t have your own or a good phone. I always find it very expensive.
Tip 22 – Additional driver charges
Decide beforehand whether or not you will need more than one driver. If so, take this into account when comparing rental deals between companies. Some companies have deals that has a free extra driver.
On the platform Discovercars.com, if there are any, it can be selected on the filters:
Tip 23 – Child safety seats rules in Slovenia
European lows apply:
- Children under 3 must use a child restraint system, whether travelling on the front or the rear seat.
- Children between 3 and 12 or up to 135 cm in height (whichever they reach first) must also use an appropriate booster seat.
#24 to 31 – How to pick up and drop of the car to avoid issues
Tip 24 – Check your vehicle at pick-up
For a worry-free exchange with the rental car company, I recommend you do a thorough check of the car before leaving the carpark.
Sometimes it is done with an agent. Sometimes they just give you a form with the state of the car before renting. Sometimes they tell you nothing…
Make sure all dents and scratches are noted, if not, make sure they add it.
Plus, for peace of mind, you can take pictures before leaving (like in every country).
Things to look for:
- Check all the exterior of the car for dent and scratches
- Don’t forget to check the roof!!!! It is often forgotten, but they might check it when you return
- Don’t forget under the bumper
- And don’t forget the back of the mirrors
- Check the interior for any damage
- Check the state of the tires
- Check the state of the fender (mud wing above the wheels)
- Make sure the spare tire is in place and in good condition
- Check that gas level and milage match the record
Tip 25 – Check the mandatory equipment is in the car
In Slovenia, the following pieces of equipment must be available in the car:
- Warning triangle
- Reflective vest or jacket
- First aid kit
- Spare set of lights
- From 15 November to 15 March your vehicle must have winter equipment – winter tires with a profile of at least 3 mm or summer tires and snow chains in the trunk.
Tip 26 – Ask about the management of tolls
Yes, you will have to pay for toll roads just as you would if you were driving your own car.In Slovenia, there are no tollbooths, all cars must have a DARS vignette when driving on Motorways.Normally, all rental cars come with one. Make sure to check it is valid.
Tip 27 – What to do in case of fine or tickets (speed / parking)
You are responsible for any parking tickets or driving fines that you receive during the rental period.
If you are aware of it right away, you can go and pay at the police station or online, as indicated.
But know that it can take up to 3 months for a fine to be reported to the car owner (the rental company).
In that case, they will send you proof and charge you for it and maybe add an administrative fee for managing the fine.
Tip 28 – What if there is a problem with the car
Don’t lose your rental agreement.
On it, you will find the steps to take if you have a problem with your car.
Most use a breakdown assistance service and the number will be listed on the agreement.
Then you can contact the rental company to see how to car can be replaced.
Tip 29 – Don’t forget to manage your tank
More and more company now have a system where you must bring back the car with the same level of fuel (not full to full tank but same to same).
This is very annoying, but it is easier for them to manage.
Therefore, you need to understand how much the car consumes and how many kilometers / miles you still have to do, if you don’t want to waste money.
Tip 30 – Drop off
For peace of mind, try dropping off the car during opening hours so that the car checks can all be made and validated.
If not possible, take pictures of the car before leaving it.
It is true that you can read horror stories on the Internet about renting cars in Slovenia.
However, keep in mind that the thousands and thousands of people who have no problem don’t write that all went well with their rentals…
So don’t be stressed. If you have taken a reputable company, are respecting the rules, it should go very smoothly.
Tip 31 – What if you damaged the car
If your rental car gets damaged, the first thing to do is to contact the car rental agency.
- If your rental has only basic insurance, you will have to cover the damages up to your deductible amount.
- If you have purchased a full coverage with the rental company, check with them and it should be covered
- If you have purchased with Discovercars.com, contact them and provide all info (within 28 days of dropping off the car). They with refund you for charges and costs related to the damage, if warranted
- If you are using your own insurance, contact them and provide all info. They with refund you for charges and costs related to the damage, if warranted.
#32 to 36 – Get ready to drive in Slovenia
Below is a snapshot with the main things to know.
You can learn more on my article about driving in Slovenia.
Tip 32 – Understand the rules
- Driving in on the right side of the road
- Speed Limits in Slovenia – 50km/H in built-up areas, 130km/h on Motorways
- Alcohol – the legal limit for driving is 0.05% alcohol in the blood – so basically no drinking when driving
- Cell Phones – It is not allowed to use handheld phones while driving in Slovenia
- Seat Belt – mandatory for all
- Lights – Turn on your lights day and night
Tip 33 – Watch videos
To get familiar with the driving you can watch videos of people road tripping in Slovenia.
Below is my short video to give you an idea of what it looks like:
Tip 34 – Know the potential dangers
Overall, driving in Slovenia felt very safe. My 2 biggest warnings to you are:
- Be careful in Summer, there are lots of thunderstorms because of the mountains. Don’t hesitate to stop when it pours too much and wait for it to stop
- It is easy to get distracted by the amazing scenery (especially in the mountains). Be careful and focus!
Tip 35 – Plan your itinerary
It can be fun to go an adventure.
But if you want to see many locations on your road trip, better to plan ahead to balance your days and book accommodations.
Find all my favorite locations and tips in my travel guide eBook:
Plan your dream trip in Slovenia thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 100+ pre-selected locations
- 16+ extra ideas
- GPS + info to make the most of your time
- 190+ original photos to help you choose
Where to stay in Slovenia?
My favorites ona road trip:
- In Ljubljana, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
- In Bled, to admire the iconic lake – see best rated accommodations
- In Bovec, to enjoy the mountains – see best rated accommodations
- In Piran, to explore the coast – see best rated accommodations
- In Ptuj, to learn about history – see best rated accommodations
- Around the Logar Valley for amazing scenery – see best rated accommodations
Plan your dream trip in Slovenia thanks to my guide
- 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
- 100+ pre-selected locations
- 16+ extra ideas
- GPS + info to make the most of your time
- 190+ original photos to help you choose
Where to stay in Slovenia?
My favorites ona road trip:
- In Ljubljana, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
- In Bled, to admire the iconic lake – see best rated accommodations
- In Bovec, to enjoy the mountains – see best rated accommodations
- In Piran, to explore the coast – see best rated accommodations
- In Ptuj, to learn about history – see best rated accommodations
- Around the Logar Valley for amazing scenery – see best rated accommodations
Tip 36 – What to do in case of accident
In case there are people hurt or there is a conflict, the emergency number in Slovenia is 112:
The best order of actions is:
- contact emergency services
- contact the police
- contact your rental provider
Want to see more of the best Slovenia has to offer?
- Best things to do in Slovenia – read article
- Most beautiful landscapes in Slovenia – read article
- Best castles in Slovenia – read article
- Most beautiful waterfalls in Slovenia – read article
- Best off the beaten path attractions in Slovenia – read article
- Most beautiful towns in Slovenia – read article
- Best things to do in Ljubljana – read article
And keep track of your own trip!
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