Despite continued interest from key markets like Germany, Italy, Austria, Croatia, Russia and Hungary, Slovenia recorded a dip in tourism this February due to a sharp decline in domestic travel. While international arrivals held steady—with some countries even posting growth—the number of Slovenians traveling within their own country fell significantly, pulling down the total figures. This drop in local tourism offset gains from abroad, resulting in a 1.4% year-on-year decrease in total tourist arrivals and marking the first decline in five months.

After a record-breaking year in 2024, Slovenia’s tourism sector started 2025 on a softer note. February marked the first decline in tourist arrivals in five months, with a 1.4% year-on-year drop, bringing the total number of visitors through March to 555,345, according to the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia.

The dip wasn’t due to a lack of international interest. In fact, foreign tourist arrivals rose slightly by 0.2% in the first quarter. Countries like Germany, Italy, Austria, Croatia, Russia, and Hungary remained strong source markets, particularly in March. German visitors led the way in overnight stays, followed closely by Italians and Austrians, while Croatia and Russia also showed solid winter-season activity.

Instead, the overall decline stemmed from a fall in domestic tourism. Slovenian residents traveled less within the country, with domestic arrivals falling by 3.3% and domestic overnight stays dropping 6.1% in the first quarter. This shift was enough to offset gains made by international visitors.

Total overnight stays from January through March reached 1.6 million—down 3.4% compared to the same period last year. Foreign overnight stays dipped just 0.6%, while domestic overnights fell more sharply.

March, however, showed signs of recovery. Tourist arrivals for the month alone were up 1.2% year-on-year, totaling 205,261, with overnight stays edging up by 0.6% to 556,482. Italy topped the list of March overnight stays, followed by Austria, Germany, Croatia, Russia, and Hungary.

The February slowdown comes after a standout 2024, when Slovenian tourism not only rebounded from the pandemic but surpassed both global and European averages. According to the UN World Tourism Organisation, international travel nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, with 1.4 billion global arrivals—an 11% jump from 2023. Europe saw a 1% increase over 2019 and a 5% rise compared to the previous year.

Slovenia outperformed them all. The country registered an 8% growth in international arrivals over 2019 levels and welcomed a total of 6.58 million tourists in 2024—up 6.3% from the year before. Overnight stays climbed 4.5% to a record 16.85 million.

Germany remained Slovenia’s top foreign market, with overnight stays from German tourists rising 4% in 2024—29% higher than pre-pandemic numbers. Italy, while still in second place, grew more modestly at 2%, and Austria held steady in third. Croatia moved into fourth, with winter visits helping Slovenia push its deseasonalisation strategy.

Slovenia’s February tourism dip was driven by a sharp fall in domestic travel, even as interest from Germany, Italy, Austria, Croatia, Russia and Hungary remained strong. Foreign arrivals slightly increased, but couldn’t offset the drop in local visitors.

Slovenia: Where Alpine beauty meets Mediterranean charm

Ljubljana – The Charming Capital
A small capital with a big personality. Stroll along the emerald-green Ljubljanica River, wander through the vibrant Old Town, and ride the funicular to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views. The city’s café culture, art scene, and green spaces give it a youthful, laid-back vibe.

Bled – Postcard Perfection
Nestled in the Julian Alps, Bled is famous for its lake, island church, and medieval clifftop castle. Rent a boat or walk the lake’s edge, then reward yourself with a slice of Bled cream cake. Great for romance, relaxation, and stunning photos.

Piran – Coastal Gem on the Adriatic
A slice of Venice without the crowds. Piran’s narrow streets, terracotta rooftops, and sea-salt air give it Mediterranean magic. Climb the old city walls or visit Tartini Square at sunset—this town is all about atmosphere.

Maribor – Wine, Culture and Riverside Charm
Slovenia’s second-largest city lies along the Drava River and is home to the world’s oldest grapevine. Explore its wine cellars, cultural festivals, and riverside promenades. In winter, nearby Pohorje offers ski slopes just minutes from the city.

Kranjska Gora – Alpine Escape
Popular in both winter and summer, this mountain resort town offers skiing, hiking, and cycling surrounded by jagged peaks. It’s also the gateway to the spectacular Vršič Pass.

Ptuj – The Oldest Town in Slovenia
History lovers will fall for Ptuj’s cobbled streets, Roman relics, and fairy-tale castle. The annual Kurentovanje carnival transforms the quiet town into a riot of folklore and costumes.

Celje – Where Medieval Meets Modern
Home to one of Slovenia’s largest castles, Celje blends medieval history with modern city life. Walk the old town, visit the regional museum, and catch panoramic views from Celje Castle.

Soča Valley – Nature and Adrenaline
Not a city, but worth the spotlight. The turquoise Soča River is a playground for rafting, kayaking, and fly fishing. Base yourself in towns like Bovec or Kobarid for outdoor adventure and WWI history.

While February 2025 may have cooled slightly, Slovenia’s strong global presence and diverse source markets suggest a resilient tourism industry that’s merely catching its breath after a banner year.

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