Renting a Car in Ljubljana: Top Tips and Advice
There’s no better way to explore Ljubljana at your own pace than by car.
So, keep reading to learn all about car hire in Ljubljana, covering the best deals, rental spots, which vehicle to choose, and tips for renting a car in Ljubljana smoothly.
Do you need to rent a car in Ljubljana?
Like most European cities, Ljubljana has a pretty good public transportation system. Yet, renting a car can provide freedom and flexibility you wouldn’t otherwise have.
You can plan your own day, stop at every picturesque spot you pass by, and enjoy Slovenia’s beautiful landscapes without worrying about frustrating public transport schedules.
Apart from exploring the city, Slovenia is also well known for its incredible scenic drives.
From Ljubljana, you can easily reach the magnificent Lake Bled, Postojna Cave, the coastal town of Piran, or even venture into the breathtaking Julian Alps. Having your own car makes these day trips a breeze.
Here are some other reasons:
- If you’re traveling as a group or have a lot of luggage, having a car makes everything easier.
- Depending on how often you use it, renting a car could even save you money compared to public transportation.
During my visit to Slovenia, one of the most memorable road trips we had was to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj.
We had the freedom to stop whenever we wanted, take our time exploring, and even took a detour to visit the Vintgar Gorge.
I used Discover Cars to compare offerings from all rental services in Ljubljana to get the best deal.
What are the requirements for renting a car in Ljubljana, Slovenia?
Renting a car in Ljubljana is pretty straightforward, but there are a few things you’ll need.
Payments are usually made with credit or debit cards, with few places accepting cash. However, using Discover Cars, Paypal is another viable payment option.
For the deposit, a credit card is required, not a debit card. This card serves as a guarantee, securing your deposit when you collect the car and releasing it when it’s returned.
So make sure you have a credit card, and the name on it matches your passport.
Slovenia Car Rental Checklist
Here’s a full checklist for renting a car in Slovenia:
- A driving license from your home country – at least a year old.
- Over 18 years old.
- Possibly an International Driving Permit – if your license is not in Latin characters.
- Your ID (passport).
- Credit card, debit card, or PayPal for payment when booking the car online.
- A credit card in your name (not a debit card) for the deposit on arrival.
- Extra insurance if you prefer.
Tip: Choosing extra insurance when renting a car might be a good idea. It’ll cover any potential damages to the rental car, theft, and other unforeseen problems – so your journey stays stress-free and enjoyable.
What are some road trips from Ljubljana?
Ljubljana, with its strategic location and excellent connectivity, makes for an ideal launchpad for various picturesque road trips across Slovenia.
Velika Planina
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Slovenia’s largest mountain plateau, Velika Planina.
Here, you can admire traditional herdsmen’s dwellings and take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
The drive from Ljubljana to Velika Planina typically takes around an hour.
Piran
Journey to the coast and visit the charming town of Piran. With its narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and beautiful Adriatic Sea views, Piran is a gem.
The road trip from Ljubljana to Piran should take roughly 1.5 hours.
Kranj
Set out for Kranj, a city known for its historical sites, stunning views of the Julian Alps, and charming old town.
This quaint city is just a 30-minute drive from Ljubljana.
Lake Bled
Take a scenic drive to Lake Bled, renowned for its emerald-green lake and stunning mountain backdrop.
A trip from Ljubljana to Lake Bled should take around 45 minutes.
Venice
Yes, Venice! While not in Slovenia, it’s a doable road trip from Ljubljana, giving you the chance to explore this famous Italian city’s canals, architecture, and rich history. Expect the drive to Venice to take around 2.5 hours.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Ljubljana?
The cost of renting a car in Ljubljana varies according to the type of vehicle and rental duration.
On average, you’ll spend around €20 to €70 per day.
A good tip is to book early. This way, you’ll often get a big discount. By booking your vehicle weeks or even months in advance, you can save significantly on daily rates.
The peak tourist season in Ljubljana spans from June to August. So to get the best deal, always book your car well ahead during this period when demand is high.
Tip: Stretching your car rental period could lead to cost savings. Renting a car for five days instead of just two or three might only cost a little extra.
Where should I rent a car from in Ljubljana?
Wondering where to get your rental car in Ljubljana? Let’s explore some convenient pick-up locations:
- Ljubljana Airport: An ideal pick-up location for those arriving by plane, it’s approximately 25 km from the city center and boasts a range of car rental services. Here you’ll find many international rental companies, such as: Enterprise, Sixt, and Avant.
- Ljubljana City Center: Perfect for travelers already in the city, the center offers many car rental offices within easy walking distance. Avant, Enterprise, Budget, and many other companies have offices here.
- Ljubljana Train Station: If you’re arriving in Ljubljana by train, this location is highly convenient, with multiple rental agencies nearby.
Book ahead, and your rental car will be ready for you at your selected pick-up location – meaning you can easily start your journey as soon as you arrive!
What type of car is best to use in Ljubljana?
The type of car you should rent in Ljubljana depends on your specific needs.
Compact cars are perfect for city driving, offering better fuel efficiency and easier parking.
For families or larger groups, a minivan or SUV might be a good idea. These vehicles provide ample room for passengers and luggage.
If you’re planning to explore Slovenia’s beautiful countryside, a 4×4 vehicle might be the best choice. They have lots of power and stability for Slovenia’s different terrains, and you’ll feel a lot safer.
Tip: Many rental cars in Ljubljana come with a manual transmission. If you require an automatic car, make sure to book in advance!
Is driving in Ljubljana difficult?
Driving in Ljubljana could be a bit demanding due to consistent traffic congestion, notably during peak hours.
The traffic tends to ease up within a couple of hours. Expect heavier flow during the tourist season, particularly on routes like the Ljubljana-Koper highway.
It’s also advisable to steer clear of coastal travel on Friday and Saturday going towards the coast, and Sunday for return journeys. This is when the locals go on weekend trips, so it can get a bit clogged.
Slovenia prides itself on its solid highway system linking all primary towns and cities, with Ljubljana right in the middle.
However, be prepared for traffic congestion on these highways, especially in the summer.
Is it a good idea to rent an electric car in Ljubljana?
Renting an electric car in Ljubljana can be a viable and eco-friendly option.
These vehicles are perfect for city driving, offering a smooth, quiet ride while reducing carbon emissions.
The city is also well-equipped with charging stations, making it relatively easy to recharge when necessary. However, keep in mind that charging can take longer than refueling a gasoline or diesel car.
In terms of cost, renting an electric car can be slightly more expensive upfront, but you may save money in the long run due to lower charging costs.
Tip: Demand for electric cars often exceeds supply at many rental companies. If you’re keen on driving an electric car, book ahead to avoid disappointment.
