PRESS RELEASE
The Ministry of Infrastructure and the Slovenian Infrastructure Agency hereby inform the public that a revised traffic management plan will take effect on June 15, 2026, in the area of the Vršič Pass. The main goal of the new measures is to reduce traffic and protect the sensitive Alpine environment, and a key part of the project is the introduction of public bus service across the pass, which will be free of charge during the 2026 tourist season.
Below, we present key information regarding the operation of the service, parking arrangements, and the functioning of the barrier system during this year’s tourist season.
Free public bus service
To alleviate traffic on the mountain pass, a free bus route will be operated during the summer season, connecting both sides of the pass:
Operating period: between June 1 and September 30, 2026.
Peak season (increased frequency): between June 26 and August 31, 2026.
Departure points and route: Buses will operate in both directions from two main departure points—Kranjska Gora and Bovec—and provide service in both directions across the Vršič Pass.
Parking Lot Status and the Impact of Weather Conditions on Construction Work
We would like to inform users of the area that the parking lots in the pass area will not be fully completed by the start of the 2026 summer season.
The delay in the execution of the works was caused by two key factors: the long winter season transitioned almost directly into the summer period, which prevented the contractor from completing the construction of the parking facilities by the scheduled deadline, and the continuation of construction work on-site is significantly hindered and restricted by the constant presence of unauthorized parking in the pass area, which is causing further delays in the project’s execution.
Operation of the Barriers and Transit Traffic Regulations
The barrier system for entry into the restricted traffic zone at Vršič will operate under an adjusted protocol during the 2026 season:
Passage through the barrier system into the Vršič road area will be free of charge and unlimited in time. The barriers will be used to direct and inform drivers about the established regime and to monitor entries and exits.
The barriers will allow through traffic and access to designated parking lots within the barrier area; however, parking at the very top of the Vršič Pass will not yet be permitted during the 2026 season.
Accordingly, in the area of the barriers where the road widens to two lanes, the right lane—which is otherwise intended for parking at the pass—will be permanently closed in 2026.
A Call to Visitors and Hikers
The Directorate and the Ministry once again urge all visitors—especially those who wish to use the Vršič Pass as a starting point for a hike or a short trip—to act responsibly.
Please leave your vehicles in the valley and take the free public bus service to the pass. By doing so, you will help ensure the construction work is completed sooner, improve traffic safety, and preserve the pristine nature of Triglav National Park.
Source: Ministry of Infrastructure
