How to get from
Ljubljana to Rovinj
How to get from Ljubljana to Rovinj
Ljubljana, Slovenia’s green capital, and Rovinj, one of Croatia’s most charming coastal towns, are separated by 185 kilometers. The route crosses borders, changes landscapes, and shifts from Central European architecture to the Adriatic’s Mediterranean vibe. Because Rovinj is popular both with holidaymakers and culture seekers, the journey is well-traveled, and travelers have several options to choose from.
By Bus
One of the most common ways to travel is by bus. Companies such as FlixBus and Nomago operate direct services between Ljubljana and Rovinj, usually once or twice a day.
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Duration: 3.5–4.5 hours, depending on traffic and border checks
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Price: €20–€35 for a one-way ticket
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Facilities: Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, occasional stops en route
The main advantage is affordability. For budget-conscious travelers, this is the cheapest and simplest option. The downside is the lack of flexibility: departure times are fixed, and you cannot easily stop to explore along the way.
By Train
Unlike other routes in the region, there is no direct train from Ljubljana to Rovinj. Trains can take you from Ljubljana to Trieste or Pula, but you would need to combine rail with a bus or rental car. For most travelers, this makes the train less practical compared to other options.
That said, those who enjoy rail journeys sometimes take the train partway for the scenery and continue by road. But in terms of speed and convenience, the bus or car wins here.
Private Transfer
For those who value comfort and flexibility, private transfers are the best solution. With a driver picking you up directly in Ljubljana and dropping you at your accommodation in Rovinj, the journey becomes door-to-door with no stress.
A reliable option is the Ljubljana to Rovinj private transfer, which takes about 2.5 hours in total. The advantage isn’t just convenience – it’s also the ability to turn the trip into part of your holiday.
Along the way, you can add stopovers that make the journey richer. One popular choice is Predjama Castle, a fortress built dramatically into a cliff face near Postojna. It’s unlike any castle in Europe and worth even a short visit. Another great stop is Piran, Slovenia’s jewel on the Adriatic coast, with Venetian architecture and narrow seaside streets. Finally, you could pause in Motovun, a hilltop town in Istria famous for truffles, medieval walls, and views across vineyards.
These detours don’t just break up the drive – they turn it into a personalized itinerary, something public transport can’t match.
Driving Yourself
Renting a car is another option that gives independence. The drive from Ljubljana to Rovinj is straightforward, mostly highway, with well-marked routes through Slovenia and Croatia.
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Duration: 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on border waiting times
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Costs: rental (€40–60 per day), fuel (€30–40),
and vignettes/tolls (€10 for Slovenia, €10–15 for Croatia)
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Pros: flexibility, ability to explore villages, stop at the sea, or detour inland
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Cons: cross-border rental paperwork and parking challenges in Rovinj’s old town
Driving is best for those who plan to explore Istria further. Towns like Poreč, Motovun, and Pula are all within an hour’s drive once you’re based in Rovinj.
Flying
There are no direct flights between Ljubljana and Rovinj, as Rovinj itself does not have a commercial airport. The nearest airport is Pula, about 40 minutes away by road. Ljubljana Airport offers connections to major hubs, but flying between the two cities makes little sense given the short distance. It usually takes longer than simply driving or taking a bus.
Which Option to Choose?
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Budget-friendly: bus is cheapest, but less flexible
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Fastest and most direct: private transfer or self-drive
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Scenic and personalized: private transfer with stopovers adds unique value
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Least practical: flying, unless you’re combining with another international trip
Travel Tips
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Book tickets early in summer, as both Slovenia and Istria are peak holiday regions.
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Bring documents – while Slovenia and Croatia are both in the EU, Croatia only recently joined Schengen, and checks may still cause occasional delays.
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Plan for parking in Rovinj – the old town is pedestrian-only, so cars must be left in designated lots outside.
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Add time for stopovers – castles, coastal towns, and hilltop villages along the way can transform your journey.
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Check local currency rules – Croatia uses the euro, so no exchange is needed if you’re starting from Slovenia.
Conclusion
Traveling from Ljubljana to Rovinj is straightforward, but the experience depends on how you choose to do it. Buses are cheap, driving gives independence, and private transfers combine speed with comfort. What sets the private option apart is the ability to pause at highlights like Predjama Castle, Piran, or Motovun, turning the ride into part of your holiday.
Rovinj itself is worth every effort – a town of colorful houses, seaside promenades, and sunsets that many call the best on the Adriatic. For official details on events, culture, and visitor information, see the Rovinj Tourist Board website.
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