Slovenia’s Tourism Continues To Flourish, Setting New Industry Benchmarks With Over Five Million Foreign Tourists And Over Eight Percent Growth In 2025

Published on
January 24, 2026

Slovenia’s tourism industry has seen remarkable growth in 2025, with over five million foreign visitors, marking an impressive eight percent increase from the previous year. This surge reflects the country’s rising appeal as a top European destination, driven by its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and year-round travel offerings. The growth in both the number of visitors and overnight stays highlights Slovenia’s successful efforts in promoting its unique attractions and positioning itself as a premier travel hotspot in Europe.

Slovenia experienced a remarkable increase in foreign tourism last year, attracting 5.5 million international visitors, a rise of 8.3% compared to the previous year, according to data from the country’s statistical office. This surge reflects the growing appeal of Slovenia as a travel destination, with a substantial increase in overnight stays by foreign tourists, which climbed by 8.1% to approximately 13.4 million nights.

Germany emerged as the leading source of international tourists, followed closely by travelers from Italy and Austria. The consistent influx of visitors from these neighboring countries has significantly contributed to Slovenia’s tourism growth, particularly in key regions known for their natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Despite the upward trend in international tourism, domestic tourism in Slovenia showed a slight decline. The number of Slovenian citizens traveling within their own country fell by 0.5% to 1.5 million. Overnight stays by domestic tourists also experienced a modest decrease of 0.3%, totaling 4.5 million nights. This suggests that while Slovenia’s international appeal continues to grow, local travel patterns have remained somewhat stable, with fewer domestic tourists opting for overnight stays.

December was a particularly strong month for Slovenia’s tourism sector. The country saw a notable increase in foreign arrivals during the final month of the year, with the number of international visitors rising by 12.9%, reaching 265,000. This surge in December, typically a quieter period for many European destinations, underscores the growing year-round appeal of Slovenia.

On the other hand, domestic tourism saw a slight decline during December. The number of Slovenian tourists traveling within the country fell by 0.3%, with 111,000 domestic visitors recorded during the same period. While this decline was small, it highlights the contrasts between local and international travel behavior during the winter season.

Overall, Slovenia’s tourism industry in 2024 showcased a continued upward trajectory in terms of foreign visitor numbers. The 8.5% year-on-year increase in foreign tourists marks another significant achievement for the country, building on previous years of steady growth. Slovenia’s ability to attract both neighboring European travelers and more distant international visitors positions it as a growing player in the European tourism market.

The country’s unique blend of scenic landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage continues to draw tourists from around the world, with many choosing Slovenia for its outdoor experiences, wellness tourism, and its historical sites. The increase in both foreign arrivals and overnight stays reflects Slovenia’s strengthening reputation as a premier travel destination.

Looking ahead, the tourism industry in Slovenia is expected to maintain its growth momentum, as the country continues to invest in its infrastructure and promote its diverse offerings. With its central European location, Slovenia remains an accessible destination for travelers from neighboring countries, while also attracting a growing number of international tourists seeking a more tranquil and authentic European experience.

The statistics for 2025 will be eagerly awaited as Slovenia builds on its recent successes and adapts to emerging trends in global travel. The continued growth of foreign tourism, coupled with efforts to enhance the local tourism experience for Slovenian residents, will be key factors in shaping the country’s future tourism landscape. As Slovenia works to diversify its tourism offerings, the focus on sustainability and responsible tourism will play a pivotal role in maintaining the sector’s growth while preserving the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations.