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The European Alps are one of the most famous and picturesque mountain ranges in the world. They are arguably the most famous and stunning in Europe drawing hikers and skiers from far and wide. The Alps extend into France, Switzerland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, and Slovenia - in each of these countries, the Alps have a different character. Liechtenstein is the tiniest country lost in the Alps and it's worth visiting just for the novelty of it.
Often when people think about visiting the European Alps, they think of Switzerland and Austria, but there are many other options to see these majestic mountains - like in Slovenia. It is true that the Swiss Alps are dramatic as are the Swiss alpine trains and Swiss villages in the Alps. But the cost of traveling in Switzerland is equally dramatic.
The Small Forgotten Alpine Country Of Slovenia
Slovenia is a small country with arguably some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Europe. The villages, churches, and alpine houses combine to make the backdrop one to die for.
Slovenia is a Central European country bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. It is mostly mountainous and forested and only covers an area of 20,271 square kilometers (7,827 sq mi) - around the size of the state of New Jersey. It has a population of around 2 million people
- Population: 2 Million
- Size: 20,271 square kilometers (7,827 sq mi)
- Location: Central Europe
- Ljubljana: Capital And Largest City
Slovenia lies at the crossroads of Slavic, Germanic, and Romance influences - that can be felt throughout the country. Today it is a developed country with a high Human Development Index.
The Stunning Alps Of Slovenia
Even though it is a small country it sits at the transition of four major European geographic regions - the Alps, the Dinarides, the Pannonian Plain, and the Mediterranean Sea. Slovenia's highest peak, Triglav, rises to 2,864 meters or 9,396 feet. The country's mountain ranges include the Julian Alps, the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, and the Karawank Chain.
- Highest Peak: Triglav At 2,864 meters or 9,396 feet
Mountain Ranges:
- Julian Alps
- Kamnik-Savinja Alps
- Karawank Chain
Over half of Slovenia is forested (making it the third most forested country in Europe and the most forested outside the Nordic countries). As one travels through the countryside, one is left wondering if this is indeed the greenest of green lands on the planet.
- Green: Slovenia Is Unbelievably Green
- Forested: Half Of Slovenia Is Forested
Slovenia is a country that offers everything from the soaring peaks of the Julian Alps to the stunning underworld of the Postojna and Škocjan caves. It is a place where emerald-green lakes and the warm Adriatic Sea are but a short drive away.
Slovenia Is Better For The Budget Than Switzerland
While Slovenia can hold its own (especially with eye-watering Lake Bled), so can Switzerland. It can be argued that no country in the Alps has the majesty of the Swiss Alps - there's a reason why Switzerland is so popular after all.
But Switzerland is infamously expensive. For many, Switzerland is just out of their price range - or is doable on a scaled-back itinerary.
According to Numbeo.com, the cost of living is 120% higher in Switzerland than in Slovenia while the cost of rent is 215% higher. Here is a comparison of some costs between Switzerland and Slovenia.
Meal At Inexpensive Restaurant:
- Switzerland: $25.00
- Slovenia: $9.40
Domestic 0.5 Liter Beer:
- Switzerland: $6.00
- Slovenia: $2.60
One Way Ticket For City Transportation:
- Switzerland: $3.60
- Slovenia: $1.40
One-Room Apartment In The City Center:
- Switzerland: $1,660.00
- Slovenia: $506.00
One can make one's trip go so much further if one goes to Slovenia instead of Switzerland. It makes so much more sense to visit Slovenia if one has to travel with an eye on the budget. In Switzerland, it is just about everything that will be costing twice or three times the amount.
Of course, if money is not an issue, then definitely visit Switzerland - but even then visit Slovenia as well because some stunning landscapes in Slovenia cannot be seen in Switzerland.
Currency:
- Slovenia: Euro
- Switzerland: Swiss Franc
The currencies are also different in the two different countries. Slovenia adopted the Euro in 2007 while Switzerland still has its own currency called the Swiss Franc.