Travelling to Slovenia with a pet
- Visit Slovenia
- Jan 3
- 5 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
5 good reasons to choose Slovenia for your dog-friendly trip.
The country of Slovenia is one of the hidden gems of Europe.
Tucked away between Italy and Croatia, it’s one of my favorite European countries.
There’s beautiful mountain scenery, plentiful history, and a silvery coastline, and it’s more affordable than the surrounding countries (yet most young people speak English). Plus, it’s a wonderfully dog-friendly country!
Travelling to Slovenia with a pet:
Dog-Friendly Culture: Slovenia generally has a welcoming attitude towards dogs. Many restaurants, cafes, and even some shops allow dogs on their premises. You'll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy meals and explore towns with your furry companion.
Stunning Natural Beauty: Slovenia boasts diverse landscapes, from the Julian Alps to the Adriatic coast. Hiking trails, lakes, and forests offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures with your dog.
Easy Travel Within the Country: Slovenia is a relatively small country, making it easy to travel around by car. Public transportation options, such as trains and buses, are also generally dog-friendly.
Affordable Accommodation: You can find a range of dog-friendly accommodation options in Slovenia, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels.
Pet-Friendly Regulations: As an EU member, Slovenia has clear and relatively straightforward regulations for travelling with pets. Ensure your dog has the necessary vaccinations, a microchip, and a valid pet passport.
Important Note: Always check specific regulations and restrictions with individual businesses and accommodation providers before your trip.
For a trip with a small dog in Slovenia, both the coast and the mountains offer unique advantages:
Coast:
Pros:
Dog-Friendly Beaches: Several designated dog beaches exist along the coast, allowing your dog to enjoy the water and sand freely.
Pleasant Climate: The coastal region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it comfortable for both you and your dog.
Variety of Activities: Explore charming coastal towns like Piran and Izola, enjoy leisurely walks along the promenade, and indulge in fresh seafood.
Cons:
Summer Crowds: The coast can get crowded during peak season, which may be less enjoyable for your dog.
Mountains:
Pros:
Stunning Scenery: The Julian Alps offer breathtaking views and endless hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels.
Peace: Escape the crowds and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Dog-Friendly Accommodation: Many mountain resorts and guesthouses welcome dogs.
Cons:
Weather Variability: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changes in temperature and potential rain.
Altitude: Higher altitudes can be challenging for some dogs, especially those with respiratory issues.
Recommendations:
Consider your dog's breed and temperament: If your dog enjoys swimming and warmer weather, the coast might be a better choice. If your dog is more active and enjoys hiking, the mountains could be ideal.
Research specific locations: Look for towns and villages with designated dog parks, beaches, and hiking trails.
Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you have dog-friendly options.
Hiking Around Lake Bohinj: A Must-Do Experience
A walk around Lake Bohinj is almost obligatory for every visitor who comes to the region—and it’s a pet-friendly paradise! Whether you take the full circular route or shorten it by exploring just the northern or southern shore, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Slovenia’s largest natural lake.
What Makes Lake Bohinj Special? Lake Bohinj is a tectonic lake, formed by the Bohinj Glacier, and is the largest in Triglav National Park. It boasts crystal-clear waters that refresh three times a year, and its main tributary, the Savica River, originates from the stunning Triglav Lakes Valley.
Pet-Friendly Tips for Your Walk
🐾 Dogs are welcome but should be kept on a leash in protected areas.🐾 Bring plenty of water, as some sections have limited access to fresh water.🐾 Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Historical and Natural Wonders Around Bohinj
The Church of St. John the Baptist. One of the most iconic landmarks in Bohinj, this church dates back to before 1300. With its rich medieval architecture and scenic location near the bridge, it’s a fantastic spot for photography and a peaceful rest stop during your walk.
The Govic Waterfall: A Hidden Gem
This spectacular waterfall appears only after heavy rainfall, bursting from a cave above the northern shore of Lake Bohinj. When active, the waterfall roars as it plummets down the rock face—an unforgettable natural spectacle!
🐾 Note: The path to the Govic Waterfall can be dangerous during peak water flow, so always check local conditions before heading out with your pet.
Mrzli Studenec Nature Trail: A Forest Wonderland
For those who enjoy dense spruce forests and historical trails, the Mrzli Studenec Nature Trail is a fantastic option. This 3.5 km circular route takes you past remnants of World War I, peat bogs, and stunning viewpoints. Information boards along the way provide insights into the flora, fauna, and history of the region.
Why Visit?
✔️ Short and easy, suitable for all fitness levels and pet-friendly.
✔️ Educational stops on Pokljuka Plateau, the largest plateau in the Julian Alps.
✔️ A great opportunity to spot Western Capercaillie and Grouse, making it a nature lover’s dream.
🐾 Tip: Always stay on marked trails to help protect the delicate alpine ecosystem.
Across “Stan” to Podkoren: A Panoramic Hike
For those visiting Kranjska Gora, the Stan to Podkoren trail is an easy yet rewarding hike. Starting from the Tourist Info Centre Kranjska Gora, the trail takes you through meadows, forests, and over small creeks before reaching Podkoren, a charming Alpine village.
Highlights of the Trail
Breathtaking views of the Julian Alps.
A peaceful walk through open meadows and historic landmarks.
Visit the World Cup Alpine Skiing track and the memorial plaque of Sir Humphry Davy, a renowned scientist and inventor.
🐾 Good to Know: The trail is well-marked and suitable for dogs, but some sections involve slight elevation gain, so bring water for both you and your pet.
Veterinary Care:
Veterinary care in Slovenia is generally good.
Find a vet in advance: Locate English-speaking veterinarians in the areas you plan to visit.
Carry your dog's medical records: Bring a copy of your dog's vaccination records and any relevant medical history.
Consider pet insurance: Check if your current pet insurance policy covers travel to Slovenia.
By carefully considering your dog's needs and preferences, you can choose the best region for travelling to Slovenia with a pet. Travel with your dog to Europe safely and ready!
Plan Your Pet-Friendly Trip to Slovenia Today!
From scenic lake walks to forest adventures and charming village trails, Slovenia offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure for travelling to Slovenia with a pet.
📍 For more travel tips, itineraries, and pet-friendly recommendations, visit Visit Slovenia Tourism.
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