Bus Hire in Idrija, Slovenia

A shepherd is said to have found liquid metal pooling in a stream near Idrija in 1490, and within decades the town had grown around what became, for a time, the second-largest mercury mine on the planet after Spain's Almaden. UNESCO now recognises both mines jointly, and Idrija's, closed only in the 1970s after nearly five centuries of continuous operation, can still be toured underground through preserved tunnels and machinery.

Mining brought wealth, and wealth eventually brought lace. Idrija's bobbin-lace tradition dates back roughly 350 years, originally a way for miners' wives and daughters to earn income, and the skill is still taught locally today, with a dedicated lace school and museum keeping the craft alive rather than treating it purely as heritage. Between the mine tour and the lace museum, Idrija packs an unusual amount of genuinely distinct history into a small mountain town.

A Mercury Mine Since 1490

Legend holds a shepherd found liquid metal in a local stream that year, and the mine that followed became, for a time, the second-largest mercury producer in the world.

UNESCO World Heritage

Closed in the 1970s after nearly five centuries of operation, the mine is recognised by UNESCO jointly with Spain's Almaden mine, and can be toured underground.

Idrija Lace

A bobbin-lace tradition roughly 350 years old, originally income for miners' families, is still taught today through a dedicated lace school and museum.

What Bus Hire Costs in Idrija

As a rough guide, a minibus (up to 19 seats) in Idrija runs around 160 to 270 EUR per day, a midi-coach (around 29 seats) around 290 to 470 EUR per day, and a full-size coach (49 seats) around 410 to 670 EUR per day. Idrija's pricing runs mid-range, supported by steady UNESCO heritage-tour interest rather than a seasonal peak. The final figure depends on your route, the date, and how long you need the vehicle. We confirm a fixed price with no hidden charges -- send your details for a free quote.