3. Slovenia and Italy
Border: Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea
Area: 232 km*
Est. Gross Domestic Product: $2.629 trillion (Italy) / $68.108 billion (Slovenia)*
The border separating Slovenia and Italy is evidence of the continent's complicated past and developing unity. This border, which was a sharp division during the Cold War, has become a symbol of European integration since Slovenia joined the EU and the Schengen Area.
Slovenia and Italy ©Shutterstock/Natalija Sahraj
The border region, which stretches from the Julian Alps to the Adriatic Sea, has a diversity of natural and cultural attractions. The previously fiercely guarded border between Italy and Slovenia is now easily crossed by locals and tourists, symbolizing the collaboration and tranquility that characterize a united Europe.