All you need to know on exploring Slovenia's A3 Motorway

For a trip through scenic landscapes dripping with history and culture, Slovenia has much to offer. Making this experience even better, is a well-maintained road network that connects this small central European nation. Six hundred kilometres of motorways, prefixed with the letter ‘A’, form the main transportation arteries. In this article, we’ll examine the shortest stretch – the A3. Read on to learn a brief history of this essential road, it's construction, specifications, infrastructure, and routing.

Road Infrastructure in Slovenia

The main network comprises motorways. These feed onto regional roads and local roads. For the most part, the road infrastructure is well-made and maintained. This is thanks to the considerable investment made in upgrading the network since independence in the early 1990s. This growth has been expanded in part by funds generated by the collection of tolls.

Toll road information

In order to use the motorway, it is necessary to purchase an official Slovenian vignette. This is an automated toll collection method valid for a specific period (daily, weekly, monthly) for vehicles under 3.5 tons. They are purchased online, or at selected points of sale. Vehicles heavier then 3.5 tons need a Dars Go box.

History of the A3:

The A3 is the shortest motorway in Slovenia, after the A4 Motorway, and is also known as the Slovenian Transversal. It was opened in 1997, as part of a broader effort to improve connectivity in western Slovenia.

Construction

Thanks to the predominantly flat terrain, unlike that of the mountainous A2 highway, it was a fairly straightforward project in engineering terms. Nevertheless, its construction still boasts the high standard typical of motorways across Slovenia.

Road condition of the A3:

Road conditions on the A3 Motorway are excellent. The asphalt surfaces are regularly maintained. Slovenian authorities prioritise safety, meaning that the road is in optimal condition, with Emergency Phones at 2 km intervals. Drivers should always keep themselves updated on road conditions, especially during extreme weather events. Slovenia offers several online resources to keep up-to-date

Length and route

Although it is only 11.3 kilometres long, the A3 Motorway is nevertheless important as it provides an efficient route to the Italian border. Along with the A1 Motorway which intersects at the Gabrk Interchange, it connects the capital, Ljubljana, with Italy at the border crossing near Sežana. The Italian port city of Trieste is a short distance away, reached on the RA14 highway in Italy.

Cities it goes through or passes

The eastern starting point of the A3 is near the town of Divača. Heading northwest from there, it passes close to the small villages of Povir and Zirje. These are typically small Slovenian settlements with basic services available. The town of Sežana represents the western extreme of the route.

Interesting tourist spots on the way

Divača is known for its limestone caves including the UNESCO listed Škocjan Caves. Similarly, the spectacular Postojna Cave forms part of the largest karst cave system in the world. In Sežana, you can visit local wineries or stroll through the botanical gardens. Alternatively, roam the Karst Living Museum which showcases the ecology of the Karst region.

Tunnels and bridges along the A3

Due to the flattish terrain along the A3 Motorway, there are no major tunnels or bridges. However, up the A1 towards Ljubljana, you can see the Ravbarkomanda Viaduct, an engineering masterpiece dating back to the 1970s.

Traffic Congestion

As the A3 connects Slovenia and Italy, there may be congestion at the border and near the Gabrk Interchange. This is particularly the case during rush hour and over the peak holiday season in the summer. Whenever possible, plan your travel on the route outside of these times to avoid delays.

As the effective gateway route between Italy and Slovenia, the value of the A3 Motorway for both trade and tourism is immense. Whichever direction you are headed, it opens up to a diverse array of interesting attractions, including the Slovenian and Italian Adriatic coast. Equipped with an e-vignette, and travelling on a well-constructed motorway, you can expect a smooth, if short, travel experience on the A3 Motorway.