I’m in Slovenia: Where can I travel during my work placement abroad? I’m in Slovenia, where can I travel during my work placement abroad? Would you like to book a weekend to discover new horizons? Austria and its traditions, Italy and its marvellous architecture, Croatia and its festive beaches… There’s something for everyone!
Heading for Austria
If you’re on a budget and want to travel to Austria from Slovenia, here are a few options that might interest you.
Rail travel: The train is generally an affordable and convenient way to travel between the two countries. There are regular rail connections between Ljubljana (the Slovenian capital) and Austrian cities such as Graz, Klagenfurt and Vienna. You can check timetables and fares on the websites of the Slovenian and Austrian rail companies.
Carpooling: Carpooling is an economical option for getting around Europe. There are online platforms, such as BlaBlaCar, where you can search for drivers making the journey between Slovenia and Austria. Fares are generally cheaper than those on public transport.
Bus: Long-distance buses are another affordable alternative for travelling to Austria from Slovenia. Several bus companies offer connections between the two countries. Be sure to check timetables and fares on the bus companies’ websites.
Why would I advise you to visit Austria? Austria is a magnificent country with an exceptional wealth of culture and nature.
Breathtaking scenery: Austria is renowned for its breathtaking Alpine scenery. You can explore majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes and lush green valleys. Regions such as Tyrol, Carinthia and Salzburg offer spectacular panoramas and endless opportunities for outdoor activities.
Cultural heritage: Austria has a rich cultural history, particularly in classical music. Vienna, the Austrian capital, is renowned for its operas, concerts and historic buildings such as Schönbrunn Palace and St Stephen’s Cathedral. Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, also offers a unique cultural atmosphere.
Architecture and art: Austria is home to some magnificent examples of Baroque and Imperial architecture. Sumptuous palaces, elegant churches and exceptional art museums are scattered throughout the country. You can visit sites such as the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, Mirabell Castle in Salzburg and many others.
Austrian cuisine: Don’t miss the chance to sample some delicious Austrian cuisine. Traditional dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel, Knödels (dumplings), Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) and Sachertorte (chocolate cake) are must-tries during your stay.
Heading for Italy
If you’re travelling from Slovenia to Italy, here are a few options that might interest you:
- Rail travel: Trains are a convenient way to travel between Slovenia and Italy. There are regular rail links between the two countries. From the Slovenian capital Ljubljana, you can take a train to Italian cities such as Trieste, Venice and Udine. Timetables and fares are available on the websites of the Slovenian and Italian rail companies.
- Bus: Long-distance buses are another option for getting to Italy from Slovenia. Several bus companies offer routes between the two countries. Be sure to check timetables and fares on the bus companies’ websites.
- Car: If you have access to a car, you might consider driving from Slovenia to Italy. The roads are generally well maintained and the journey can be pleasant, passing through beautiful countryside. Be sure to check the regulations on tolls and motorway toll stickers, as they can vary depending on the country and the motorways used.
Why would I advise you to visit Italy? Italy is a country renowned for its rich culture, historic heritage, delicious cuisine and varied landscapes.
- Art and history: Italy is full of artistic and historical treasures. Cities like Rome, Florence and Venice are home to iconic monuments such as the Colosseum, Florence’s Duomo and St Mark’s Basilica. You can also discover many renowned museums housing famous works of art, including the Uffizi Gallery in Florence and the Vatican Museums in Rome.
Italian cuisine: Italian cuisine is world-renowned. From authentic pizzas in Naples to fresh pasta in Bologna and homemade gelati in Florence, you’ll be able to sample a multitude of delicious and flavoursome dishes. Each region of Italy has its own unique culinary specialities to discover.
- Varied landscapes: Italy offers an impressive diversity of landscapes. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Amalfi Coast to the majestic Dolomites and the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to natural destinations. The lakes of northern Italy, such as Lake Como and Lake Garda, also offer magnificent panoramas.
- Fashion and shopping: Italy is known as one of the world’s leading fashion countries. Cities like Milan are home to major luxury brands and renowned designer boutiques. If you love shopping, you’ll find a
Heading for Croatia
If you are in Slovenia and would like to travel to Croatia, here is some useful information.
Car transport: The car is a practical means of travelling between Slovenia and Croatia. The two countries are neighbours and are linked by several border crossings. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as a driving licence and car insurance, before travelling to Croatia.
Rail travel: Another way to travel between Slovenia and Croatia is by train. Rail links connect various towns in both countries. You can check timetables and fares on the websites of the Slovenian and Croatian rail companies.
Bus transport: Long-distance buses are also available to get to Croatia from Slovenia. There are several bus companies offering journeys between the two countries. Be sure to check timetables and fares on the bus companies’ websites.
During your stay in Croatia, you can take advantage of its magnificent beaches, particularly those on the Adriatic coast. Towns such as Dubrovnik, Split and Zadar offer picturesque coastal landscapes and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports.
Croatia is also known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Sites such as the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Diocletian’s Palace in Split and the Plitvice Lakes National Park are must-sees. You can discover the remarkable history and architecture of these places.
When it comes to Croatian cuisine, be sure to try the local specialities such as cevapi (meat kebabs), fresh grilled fish and traditional pastries. The local markets are also a great place to discover the fresh produce and flavours of the region.
Heading for the Balkans
And from Slovenia, you can also discover the Balkans! And it’s sumptuous!
- Montenegro: Situated south of Slovenia, Montenegro is a beautiful country offering a unique combination of mountains, picturesque coastlines and historic towns. You can visit the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, explore Durmitor National Park or relax on the beaches of Budva.
- Serbia: Serbia is a neighbouring country to Slovenia, offering a wealth of culture and history. Belgrade, the capital, is known for its lively nightlife and numerous historic sites, including the Belgrade Fortress and St Sava’s Cathedral. You can also visit the medieval town of Novi Sad and the Djerdap national park.
- Bosnia-Herzegovina: This Balkan country is famous for its mountainous landscapes, historic towns and remarkable natural sites. Sarajevo, the capital, is a fascinating city with its unique blend of cultures. Be sure to visit Mostar and its famous bridge, as well as the Una national park and its magnificent waterfalls.
- Kosovo: Kosovo is a small country to the south of Slovenia. Pristina, the capital, is full of interesting museums and monuments, while Prizren, a picturesque town, offers medieval charm with its cobbled streets and ancient churches. The Visoki Decani monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also well worth a visit.
- Albania: Although Croatia is not excluded, Albania offers a unique Balkan experience. From the idyllic beaches of the Albanian coast to the spectacular mountains of the Albanian Alps, the historic town of Berat and the archaeological site of Butrint, Albania has much to offer travellers looking for diversity.
If you too are IN LOVE with Slovenia, we’d love to send you on an internship abroad. You can contact us here, or for more information, check out #FeelSlovenia’s instagram, which promotes the country: it’s sublime!
For more general questions, visit the International Horizons Internships Abroad FAQ.