Slovenia (SI)
Slovenia is a small, prosperous Central European republic nestled at the crossroads of the Alps, the Mediterranean, and the Pannonian Plain — the first former Yugoslav country to join both the EU (2004) and the Eurozone (2007).
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Slovenia.
Denominations
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2. Notes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500. Slovenian euro coins feature Triglav (mountain), the Lipizzaner horse, and the Barn swallow — collectible among euro enthusiasts.
Payment Culture
Slovenia is well cashless in cities — contactless card payment is accepted at most restaurants, shops, and services in Ljubljana and other towns. However, rural areas and traditional markets may prefer cash. Mastercard and Visa are universally accepted. As a Eurozone member since 2007 (the first former Yugoslav country to adopt the euro), Slovenia has a fully integrated payment system with the rest of the eurozone. There are no currency exchange concerns when travelling from other Eurozone countries.
ATM Tips
ATMs (bankomati) are widely available in cities and towns. International cards are accepted at all major bank ATMs (NLB, Nova KBM, SKB). Withdrawal fees vary — typically €2–5 for foreign cards. Avoid airport exchange desks for large sums. Wise or Revolut are excellent supplements for international transfers and fee-free spending.
Exchange Tips
As a Eurozone country, no currency exchange is needed within the Eurozone. For non-euro income, use Wise or Revolut for favourable rates. Bank wire transfers within SEPA are free or very low cost. Non-SEPA transfers (e.g., from USD): use Wise for best rates.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents