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Ljubljana Travel Guide

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14 Best Things To Do in Ljubljana

Updated February 11, 2021

Whether you love history, nature or art, Ljubljana has you covered. No matter where you venture in the Ljubljana Old Town area, you'll discover a perfect blend of Gothic, Baroque and art nouveau architecture within steps of the breathtaking Ljubljani

All Things To Do

Ljubljana Old Town (Staro mesto) Ljubljana Old Town (Staro mesto) free

Ljubljana's past is hard to miss in its historical city center. Home to must-see sights like Prešeren Square , the Triple Bridge and Ljubljana Castle , the Ljubljana Old Town area features a mix of Gothic, Baroque and art nouveau architecture. Throughout the neighborhood, you'll find colorful buildings, pedestrian-only thoroughfares, ample shops and charming open-air cafes that overlook the Ljubljanica river. Plus, several of Slovenian architect Jože Plecnik's most iconic structures reside in this part of town. Don't miss the Plecnik-designed Central Market, which hosts a popular food market (Open Kitchen) every Friday from mid-March through October.

Travelers rave about the Ljubljana Old Town region, saying it offers a perfect blend of old and new. Though many suggest a summer visit so you can attend the weekly food market and people-watch while sipping a coffee outdoors, others highly recommend arriving in December to enjoy the city's festive Christmas decorations and holiday markets. No matter when you visit, vacationers say you'll discover well-maintained buildings, friendly locals and a great selection of eateries and watering holes.

Ljubljanica Ljubljanica free

Some of Ljubljana's most stunning vistas are front and center from the Ljubljanica River. Weaving its way from the Sava River in Podgrad (an area east of Ljubljana) through the Ljubljana Old Town area to Slovenia's Inner Carniola region, this waterway has played an important role in Slovenia's history for years. Several archaeological sites lie in the Ljubljana Marshes, which the river passes through to get to the city. Additionally, the Ljubljanica river served as a major trade route from when the Romans conquered the region up until the country's rail network was constructed in the mid-19th century.

Today, visitors can enjoy the river in a variety of ways. During the warmer months, the waterway's lush green banks are ideal for picnics. Travelers can also sign up for a two-hour paddleboarding excursion , and for less-active vacationers, there's a two-hour boat cruise that's available every day at 2 p.m. from April through September. No matter the season, the river's multiple bridges – including the Dragon Bridge and the Triple Bridge – are superb spots for photo ops.

Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski grad) Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski grad) free

Built in the Middle Ages on Castle Hill, Ljubljana Castle is a fixture on the city's skyline. The medieval castle boasts thick stone walls and houses a plethora of historical spaces, including a chapel, an open-air prison, a gunpowder room and a lookout tower. Additionally, the property offers modern amenities like two restaurants, a coffee shop, a gift shop, a jazz club, a museum about puppetry and an escape room.

Visitors heap praise on this old-world attraction, citing its top-notch restoration and jaw-dropping city vistas as highlights. Many also enjoyed riding the property's funicular from Krek Square to the top. Other ways to reach the castle include taking the Urban Train, riding the No. 32 bus to the Ljubljanski grad stop or biking or walking from the Ljubljana Old Town neighborhood, though several travelers caution that the steep trek is exhausting.

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Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) free

One of Ljubljana's most recognizable sights is its Triple Bridge. Featuring a three-bridge design that includes a central stone bridge from 1842 and two matching side bridges designed by Jože Plecnik in the early 1900s, this thoroughfare helps bicyclists and pedestrians cross the Ljubljanica river. By its northern entrances, visitors will find Prešeren Square and its historical attractions. Meanwhile, the southern access points sit within walking distance of the medieval Ljubljana Castle and Ljubljana Cathedral . Various shops and restaurants are also accessible from both ends.

Overall, previous visitors praised this unique bridge, describing it as beautiful and romantic. Many also said that the bridge offers terrific river and castle views, so be sure to bring your camera. When vacationers need a break from walking around the area or admiring the bridge's architecture, past travelers recommend grabbing a bite to eat at a nearby restaurant since seating on the bridge is limited.

Prešeren Square (Prešernov trg) Prešeren Square (Prešernov trg) free

Considered one of the top places to visit in the Ljubljana Old Town neighborhood, Prešeren Square sits on a plot of land that once featured a set of medieval gates. Although the gates were removed in the 19th century, the square continues to draw visitors thanks to its proximity to the Triple Bridge and its recognizable sights. At the center of the square lies the Prešeren Monument, a tribute to Slovenian poet France Prešeren. It faces another statue depicting the poet's love, Julija Primic. And next to the Prešeren Monument lies one of Ljubljana's most well-known buildings, the 17th-century Franciscan Church of the Annunciation.

Many past visitors enjoyed checking out Prešeren Square, saying it's an ideal spot to snap a selfie and people-watch. Others suggest exploring the shops and restaurants situated nearby. To make the most of your visit, previous travelers recommend coming around Christmas when the square is decked out in an array of holiday lights.

Lake Bled Lake Bled free

Though you may be tempted to stick to Ljubljana's city limits, you'd miss seeing one of Slovenia's most breathtaking natural wonders: Lake Bled. Located about 35 miles northwest of Ljubljana, this Alpine lake is home to the country's only island, where the quaint Assumption of Mary Church resides. On the lake's shoreline, you'll discover the 12th-century Bled Castle, a few cafes and shops, multiple thermal springs, a beach and a nearly 4-mile-long walking and bike trail.

Recent visitors said Lake Bled is just as beautiful as it appears in pictures. Many were left in awe of the lake's gorgeous setting, citing the vistas from the walking path and castle as highlights. On warm, sunny days, a few past travelers suggest grabbing a coffee or bite to eat from one of several lakefront eateries. Some also recommend hiring a rowboat or a guided pletna (a traditional wooden boat) to visit the island; however, others cautioned that pletna rides are expensive.

Ljubljana Cathedral (Ljubljanska stolnica) Ljubljana Cathedral (Ljubljanska stolnica) free

Also known as the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, Ljubljana Cathedral has welcomed parishioners since at least 1262. Burned down and altered throughout the years, today's rendition of the church features a cross-shaped design devised by Italian Jesuit architect Andrea Pozzo. Inside, you'll discover all kinds of Baroque details, including ceiling frescoes painted by Italian artist Giulio Quaglio, statues made by Italian sculptor Angelo de Putti and a dome fresco created by Slovenian painter Matevž Langus. The church's two bronze doors are also noteworthy: Added during a visit from former pope St. John Paul II in 1996, both feature scenes that tell the stories of Christianity in Ljubljana and Slovenia.

Travelers use adjectives like "amazing," "beautiful" and "impressive" to describe Ljubljana Cathedral. Visitors love both the building's interior and exterior, citing its artwork and ambiance as highlights. Though tourists are welcome to walk around and take pictures inside, be respectful during your visit. Remain quiet to avoid disturbing those who are praying, and refrain from using the flash on your camera.

Tivoli Park Tivoli Park free

Voted the European Green Capital by the European Commission in 2016, Slovenia's capital offers multiple places to reconnect with nature, including Tivoli Park. This expansive park – which measures about 2 square miles – features chestnut tree-lined paths, a fish pond, a botanical garden and a variety of statues and fountains. On-site amenities range from an outdoor pool to sports courts to an open-air gallery designed by Jože Plecnik.

According to former visitors, Tivoli Park is a terrific place to enjoy some peace and quiet without straying far from the city center. In addition to offering well-maintained walkways and lawns for picnics, leisurely strolls, jogs and bike rides, the park is home to several cafes that previous vacationers said served superb cups of coffee. For those with children, past travelers recommend taking advantage of the on-site playground and bowling alley and visiting the Ljubljana Zoo, which sits in the southwestern part of the park.

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Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most) Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most) free

Flanked by – you guessed it – four dragon statues, the Dragon Bridge is a photographer's dream. Located within walking distance of Ljubljana Cathedral and Ljubljana Castle in the Ljubljana Old Town neighborhood, this prime example of Slovenian art nouveau architecture is one of the largest concrete bridges in Europe. The bridge, which was designed by Dalmatian architect Jurij Zaninovi? and built in the early 1900s, was Slovenia's first structure to be paved with asphalt. In addition to featuring its iconic copper dragon statues, the bridge is adorned with balustrades and parapet lamps.

Visitors say the Dragon Bridge's namesake creatures are beautiful works of art, though some feel the bridge itself is a bit underwhelming. Nevertheless, most agree that coming here to snap photos of the statutes and the Ljubljanica river is a must. Couples who visit should also bring a lock to add to the adjacent Butchers' Bridge, Ljubljana's equivalent of Paris ' Pont des Arts.

Metelkova mesto Metelkova mesto free

If you need a break from Ljubljana's old-world attractions, immerse yourself in its alternative side in Metelkova mesto. Occupying former army barracks that were abandoned after the breakup of Yugoslavia, this urban neighborhood – which was originally established by 200 squatting volunteers – is a haven for Slovenian artists and musicians. Comparable to Copenhagen, Denmark 's Christiania area (minus the anarchist attitude), autonomous Metelkova mesto boasts a cool vibe complete with eclectic artwork from highly regarded and lesser-known Slovenian artists. Its colorful buildings house everything from art galleries to nightlife venues to a few retail stalls and shops.

According to past travelers, Metelkova mesto is the place to go if you enjoy live music and quirky art. However, some previous visitors said the area can feel unsafe at night, so if you're not there to attend a concert, consider arriving before dark. Also, keep in mind that the neighborhood's unconventional atmosphere means you may see squatters or other locals participating in illegal activities.

Museum of Illusions Ljubljana (Muzej iluzij Ljubljana) Museum of Illusions Ljubljana (Muzej iluzij Ljubljana)

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Pub Crawl Ljubljana Pub Crawl Ljubljana

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TRAVELSLOVENIA.ORG – All You Need To Know To Visit Slovenia

Welcome to ljubljana, the small but beautiful capital of slovenia, introducing ljubljana.

Few people know where Ljubljana is, even less can pronounce Ljubljana, but the capital of Slovenia has all the right ingredients for the perfect city break. It wouldn’t be revolutionary if we told you that the fame of a city doesn’t guarantee the quality of your experience there, and vice versa. Cities not included on lists of top recommended destinations in the world, can create some exquisite travel memories. This is exactly the case with Ljubljana.

Ljubljana, Slovenia’s largest city, is one of the youngest and most liveable capitals in the European Union. It has a 5,000-year-long and fascinating history including the remains of the Roman city of Emona and the old city centre with its medieval castle. It was formerly an Austro-Hungarian city called Laibach, and is heavily influenced by nearby Austria and Italy. It’s a city with a medieval heart, a city of the Baroque and Art Nouveau, with numerous picturesque bridges across the Ljubljanica river (which is perfect for boat trips) and the vast green Tivoli park, which stretches into the very city centre.

Ljubljana is quickly establishing itself as one of Europe’s must visit cities. It’s a safe, walkable place with lots to see, do, eat, and drink. Many visitors happily spend their time meandering along its cobbled streets or sitting in a pavement cafe in one of its squares, but Ljubljana also has a handful of museums, art galleries, festivals, a theatre, a bustling market, and a hilltop castle with views for miles. After dark, Ljubljana has enough chic bars, cosy inns with open fires and sophisticated restaurants to keep tourists entertained. The local people are friendly and helpful and most of them speak English really well. The city itself isn’t that large, but there’s enough there to fill a week, and then you can use it as a base to explore elsewhere in Slovenia. Distances between places in Slovenia are really short and within a single day you can visit the Slovenian coast and experience the Mediterranean climate or visit the mountainous region of Gorenjska and experience the Alpine and continental climate.

The most important attractions in the city are Ljubljana’s Old Town, Ljubljana Castle, Triple Bridge, Preseren Square, River Ljubljanica Kanal, Cathedral of St. Nicholas, Tivoli Park, Metelkova, National Museum of Contemporary History, Ljubljana Castle Funicular, Franciscan Church, Vodnik Square, Dragon Bridge, Town Hall, Ljubljana Zoo, National and University Library, Galerija Emporium, Butcher’s Bridge, Zale Cemetery, Shoemaker’s Bridge, Slovene Ethnographic Museum, Church of St. James, Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity, Technical Museum of Slovenia, Plecnik Collection / Architectural Museum Ljubljana, Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers, and Old Square.

Ljubljana Pictures

Location of Ljubljana on the map

Address: Mestni trg 1, 1000 Ljubljana Latitude and Longitude Coordinates: 46.049845, 14.506966 GPS coordinates: 46° 2′ 59.4420” N 14° 30′ 25.0776” E Region: Central Slovenia

25 Best Things to Do in Ljubljana (Slovenia)

If you’ve never been to Ljubljana you better have a good excuse. In the centre of Slovenia , it’s a clean, forward-thinking city with architecture has an Italian inflection. Ljubljana owes some of its beauty to a catastrophe: An earthquake in 1895 reduced whole neighbourhoods to ruins. But this only gave free rein to visionaries like Jože Plečnik to build Art Nouveau masterpieces from the rubble.

Ljubljana is young, very hip and green as can be: In 2016 it was the European Green Capital, in a part of Europe not always known for environmental friendliness. The city centre is now mostly car-free, public transport is low-emissions and there’s a new cycling network. The squat-turned-cultural zone Metelkova is the go-to for hipsters and live music, and has nightspots, bars and public art installations in an old barracks.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Ljubljana :

1. Prešeren Square

Right by the Ljubljanica, Prešeren Square is the place where the city meets up and celebrate.

If there’s an event going on in Ljubljana there’s a good chance it will happen in this space.

With a rough triangular outline, the square is at the convergence of a number of major arteries, and gained its current opulent appearance after the earthquake in 1895. This was when regal halls replaced the medieval houses that had been here before, joining the Baroque Church of the Anunciation, which dates to 1795. The square takes its name from the 19th-century poet France Prešeren whose work “Zdravljica”, “A Toast”, became Slovenia’s national anthem.

You can find his statue next to the Central Pharmacy, across the square from his unrequited love and muse Julija Primic.

2. Triple Bridge

Ushering you off Prešeren Square is a group of three bridges decorated with stone balustrades and lanterns.

The central bridge of the three is much older than the two that flank it, and dates to 1842. This was intended for road traffic, while the two alongside were added for pedestrians at the start of the 1930 and were the work of Jože Plečnik, Ljubljana’s most revered architect.

Also dating from this project are the riverside terraces lined with poplars, and the temple-like flower shop that connects with the colonnade of the Central Market on the right bank.

3. Ljubljana Castle

When you’re looking up from Ljubljana’s squares, the castle seems dauntingly high.

If you’ve got the mettle you can try to get up there on foot, but there’s also a tourist train and a funicular railway.

The castle has changed a lot since it first came together 900 years ago.

The early stone wood and stone fortress was succeeded by more practical military buildings, becoming an Arsenal in the 16th century as a regional bulwark against an Ottoman invasion.

The main courtyard is free to enter, and has a cafe, nightclub, galleries and a restaurant.

You have to pay to ascend the watchtower to look over Ljubljana, and included in this is a “Time Machine” tour.

This recounts Ljubljana’s key historical events with 3D animations and guides in period costume.

Suggested tour : Ljubljana and Ljubljana Castle Sightseeing Tour

4. Dragon Bridge

The four intimidating dragons that stand sentinel on each corner of this bridge are an emblem for Ljubljana and show up all over the city.

Taken from the coat of arms they’re strikingly lifelike (supposing dragons existed!), were rendered in sheet copper in the A. M. Beschorner factory in Vienna, and designed by the bridge’s architect Jurij Zaninović.

The bridge was opened in 1901 and is in the Viennese Secessionist style, an offshoot of Art Nouveau.

At the time it was also a technical achievement as one of the first reinforced concrete bridges in Europe.

5. Tivoli Park

Within just a few streets of the Ljubljanica you can be in a green space that pushes out for more than two kilometres.

This begins with the elegant gardens and avenues landscaped in 1813 and extends up the slope onto the wilder Rožnik Hill, which is crisscrossed by nature trails.

In the lower reaches there are dignified properties like the Baroque Cekin Mansion, which houses the Contemporary History Museum.

Tivoli Park also hosts a tropical greenhouse managed by the city’s Botanical Gardens and sits beside a pond.

But if there’s one reason to come it’s to walk the Jakopič Promenade, an arrow-straight avenue that runs from the eastern entrance up to the Neoclassical Tivoli Castle.

6. Ljubljana Cathedral

This monument has had a few different forms since the 13th century because of fires and war.

The current Baroque design though has survived since the beginning of the 18th century, while the splendid dome came later, in the 1840s.

It’s an awe-inspiring building replete with art by a number of Italian Baroque masters.

The likes of Francesco Robba, the Groppelli brothers, Angelo Putti and Giulio Quaglio the Younger contributed the interior’s frescoes, paintings and sculpture in the 18th century.

More recent works are the astounding dome fresco, painted by the Slovenian Matevž Langus in 1844 and the 20th-century artist Tone Demšar’s main portal door, which sports a relief presenting the history of Slovenia.

7. Central Market

Jože Plečnik also designed this market in the early 1930s as part of his beautiful set piece that included the Triple Bridge.

It hugs the riverside between this bridge and the Dragon Bridge and is on the site of an old diocesan college for girls that collapsed during the earthquake in 1895. That handsome colonnade on the fringe of Prešeren Square shelters stalls selling herbs, spices and handicrafts, while further along are bakery stalls, cured meat, dried fruit and nuts, dairy products, fresh fruit and veg and fish.

The market is open every day except Sunday, while the covered sections have slightly shorter opening times to the open air stalls.

8. Franciscan Church of the Annunciation

A solemn presence on Prešeren Square, this church is in an early Baroque style from the middle of the 17th century.

The facade is painted a pastel red, which holds meaning for the Franciscan order.

It’s one of the sights to behold on the square, and has pinnacles, pilasters with Ionic capitals, niches and a statue of the Virgin with Child on the pediment.

The inside is lavishly furnished, although the Baroque frescoes were destroyed by cracks after he earthquake.

If there’s one unmissable work it’s Francesco Robba’s 18th-century altarpiece, but it’s worth poking around to see a stone cross by Jože Plečnik in a side chapel, while the new ceiling frescoes were provided by the Impressionist Matej Sternen in the 1930s.

9. National Gallery of Slovenia

Fronting Tivoli Park is Slovenia’s premier historical art museum, displaying works from medieval times to the 1900s.

It’s in a Revivalist palace from the end of the 19th century and has modern extensions built in the early 90s and 2001. There are more than 600 works to peruse in here, from Gothic liturgical art to pieces by the Italian Baroque painters and sculptors who received many commissions in Ljubljana in the 1700s.

You can also delve into the Slovenian Impressionist movement via pieces by Rihard Jakopič, Ivan Grohar and Matija Jama.

But if there’s one standout it’s the Francesco Robba’s Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers.

This is the original sculpture for Ljubljana’s most celebrated fountain, brought to the modern glass extension to protect it from the elements.

10. Metelkova Mesto

Soon after independence, a disused army barracks from the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire was occupied by squatters to stop it from being torn down.

This large space in the centre of Ljubljana has gone on to become an autonomous urban enclave, not unlike the famous Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen.

It’s an alternative haven where almost every wall is covered in graffiti and imaginative murals.

Come for photos during the day, and return at night when it’s full of life.

After dark the bars and clubs book live bands and DJs, and there are outdoor concerts in summer.

11. National Museum of Slovenia

This museum, devoted to Slovenia’s history and culture is based in two buildings in Ljubljana.

The main exhibition is on Prešernova Street, while there’s a new building for the applied arts department on Metelkova.

In the former there are some amazing artefacts to checkout going back deep into prehistory.

One is what is believed to be a fragment of a Neanderthal flute (Divje Babe Flute), whittled from a bear femur 60,000 years ago.

Ljubljana’s Roman origins as the city of Emona is laid bare with models, animated films and excavated items like a hoard of coins.

The most exciting of these is the lapidarium, where 200 inscribed stones are on the ground floor and in a glass pavilion.

12. Republic Square

This stern Communist-era plaza is without the sumptuous architecture of Prešeren Square, and was instead laid out as the modern centre of the city in the 1960s.

During that time, many of the Roman artefacts in the National Museum were found by accident when a shopping arcade and car park were being built beneath the square.

The Monument to Revolution from 1975, the Slovenian Parliament and the monolithic TR3 and Ljubljanska Banak office buildings give the square an almost oppressive feel.

But it’s also a place of real meaning, as the spot where Slovenian Independence was declared in 1991. In mid-winter there’s a big skating rink on the square, large enough to host ice hockey matches.

13. National Museum of Contemporary History

The 20th century in Slovenia was anything if not an interesting phase of the country’s history.

And this slick museum in the noble confines of the Cekin Mansion lays it all out for you.

You’ll start with the First World War, move into the fractious interwar period , onto the Second World War, through Tito’s regime and end with Slovene independence in 1991. Each period is backed up with authentic artefacts and documents, including uniforms, costumes, furniture, weapons, medals, archive photography, farming implements like a vintage tractor and a whole lot more.

14. Congress Square

This cultured central square has played host to some momentous occasions in Slovenian history.

Independence from Austria-Hungary was announced here in 1918, while Josip Broz Tito addressed the crowds from the balcony of the university building in 1945. Later, the first free protest took place here in 1988, in a movement that would end with Slovene independence in 1991. Finally in 1999 Bill Clinton read the first line of the Slovenian National Anthem to a crowd on this square.

Dating to1821, it’s a formidable space that has civic buildings and palaces on all sides and the Zvezda park at the centre.

A couple of sights to note are the resplendent Slovenian Philharmonic and the copy of a Roman gilded bronze statue excavated on this site in 1836.

15. Town Hall

The municipal seat has been at this location on Town Square since the 15th century.

In the early 18th century that first Gothic building was reworked in the Venetian Baroque style with plans drawn up by the Italian architect Carlo Martinuzzi.

In the vestibule you can find a plaque from the Gothic predecessor with the city’s coat of arms, as well as a sculpture of Hercules and the Nemean lion from a lost fountain dating to the 1600s.

The Town Hall is open for exhibitions, and you can also put your name down for a tour of rooms normally closed to the public.

A highlight in the main courtyard is a glorious fountain depicting Narcissus by the sculptor Francesco Robba.

16. Robba Fountain

Even if you’ve seen the original sculpture in the National Gallery, you still have to spare a moment for this fountain in front of the Town Hall as it’s a symbol of Ljubljana.

What you see is a replica, replacing the original which was removed in 2006 for safekeeping.

As the name tells you it’s another work by the prolific Francesco Robba, and depicts three male figures pouring water from jugs.

These represent the three rivers of the Carniola region: The Ljubljanica, the Sava and the Krka.

The design, right down to the obelisk above the fountain, is borrowed from Rome’s Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi (Fountain of the Four Rivers) at Piazza Navona.

17. Museum of Illusions

In a townhouse on Congress Square is an offbeat museum that draws you into the world of illusions and makes you question your own eyes.

Kids might get the most out of this attraction, but grownups could also spend a fun hour or so here.

You’ll move from room to room, each with something strange going on: There’s an Anti-Gravity Room, where everything seems to float, or the dizzying Vortex Tunnel, which seems to spin around you, making it a challenge to keep your balance.

There’s are 40 exhibits in all, with a light-hearted and stealthily educational theme.

18. The Skyscraper (Nebotičnik)

When this 13-storey tower was topped off in 1933 it became the tallest building in the Balkans and was in the top ten for Europe.

At the time it was equipped with all the latest conveniences, like air-conditioning, speedy elevators and a central heating system.

Even now the Skyscraper gives you the most complete view of Ljubljana, encompassing the castle and the mountains like Šmarna Gora to the north.

There’s a restaurant at the viewing terrace on the 12th floor, below a cafe/nightclub, and if you have the legs you can take on the Art Deco spiral stairway to the top.

19. Art Nouveau Architecture

In addition to the Dragon Bridge there are a dozen Art Nouveau buildings around Ljubljana’s centre.

Most are from that phase of intensive construction after the earthquake, and while none are tourist attractions in their own right they can be combined into a 12-stop tour of the city for architecture lovers.

The People’s Loan Bank building at no. 4 Miklošičeva Ulica is sublime, with a delicate wrought iron balcony and two large classical statues of female figures on its roof.

From 1921 is the Vurnik House, which is impossible to miss for its red walls and bright patterns in the Slovenian national style around its windows.

More conventional, but no less lovely is Urbanc House on the corner of Prešeren Square, dating to 1902 and admired for the metal and glass canopy above the entrance.

20. Plečnik House

Also on an architectural theme you can get inside the mind of Jože Plečnik the man who revamped Ljubljana in the interwar period.

Plečnik’s impact on this city is compared to Antoni Gaudí’s in Barcelona, and his dream was to turn Ljubljana into a modern version of Ancient Athens.

Plečnik’s house and studio complex is on Karunova Ulica and is almost exactly how he left it when he passed away in 1957. There are two houses side by side and a garden with a lapidary collection, and the architect’s furniture, tools and sketches and other possessions are still in place.

The exhibition goes into detail on the buildings Plečnik contributed to Ljubljana, and reveals some plans that never came to fruition.

21. Ljubljanica River Trip

At the Breg embankment on the left bank of the river you can hop aboard a cruise boat for a jaunt along the Ljubljanica.

It’s probably the best way to appreciate Jože Plečnik’s majestic urban design, including the Triple Bridge and the arcade and colonnade on the revitalised waterfront beside it.

On Ljubljana’s website you can sign up for a cruise aboard the “Ljubljanica”, a traditional boat made of larch and oak, or on one of the more modern glass-covered vessels.

Trips last an hour and include a commentary of the sights.

If you’re really up for trying something different this is a journey you can also make on a canoe or stand-up paddleboard.

22. Ljubljana Zoo

From Tivoli Park you can continue to the lower slopes of Rožnik Hill to get to the city’s zoo.

The attraction is wrapped in hill’s forest and meadows, and despite its small size the animals have large, healthy environments.

There are animals from around the world, and an emphasis on conserving Slovenia’s wildlife in a unique region where the Alps meet the Pannonian Plain and the Mediterranean.

The zoo has 119 species in all, totalling more than 500 individual animals.

The crowd-pleasers are the cheetahs, sea lions, Asian elephant and pair of Siberian tigers, new to the zoo in August 2017. You can watch the sea lions and pelicans being fed throughout at set times each day, and get to know the animals at a typical Slovenian farm.

23. Hire a Bike

Going through the tourist office It costs next to nothing to get your hands on a bike for two hours €2.00 or a full day €8.00. And if you get the Ljubljana Card (a multi-pass scheme for museums and attractions) you’ll be able to hire a bike for up to four hours for free.

And there’s a good reason to hire one, as Ljubljana is becoming one of Europe’s best cities to see on two wheels.

A lot of the centre is green and traffic-free, but on top of that the city has invested in cycling infrastructure akin to Copenhagen.

This is all part of a drive to make Ljubljana as environmentally friendly as possible.

Book online : Central Ljubljana Bike Rental

24. Šmarna Gora

If you need to break out into the countryside, this park is only ten kilometres north of Ljubljana and brings the wilderness to the suburbs.

Unmistakable for its twin humps, Šmarna Gora is more than 660 metres above sea level, but has been made hospitable by 15 well-tended hiking trails, all serving the summits.

When you make it to the top of the eastern peak you’ll be met by a restaurant and a Baroque church from the early 1700s.

There’s also a Marian column up here from the same century to mark an outbreak of plague that took place in the 1600s.

But the greatest sight is Ljubljana in the distance scattered around at the bottom of Rožnik and Castle hill.

25. Eat Like a Local

If you’re hungry enough to eat a horse, there’s Hot Horse with a horsemeat menu in the Tivoli Park.

Joking aside, this isn’t a dining experience for vegetarians, but if you’re wondering what a horse burger, steak, hot dog or wrap might taste like you’ll get your answer at this stylish, fast-food style eatery.

That isn’t necessarily authentic Slovenian food of course, and if you want to immerse yourself in the city’s cuisine you can book food and beer tours at the Ljubljana’s tourist office.

For something off the cuff, grab some Štruklji, which is a kind of dough, rolled up and filled with sweet fillings like apple, or savoury ones like walnuts or cheese.

25 Best Things to Do in Ljubljana (Slovenia):

Prešeren Square
Triple Bridge
Ljubljana Castle
Dragon Bridge
Tivoli Park
Ljubljana Cathedral
Central Market
Franciscan Church of the Annunciation
National Gallery of Slovenia
Metelkova Mesto
National Museum of Slovenia
Republic Square
National Museum of Contemporary History
Congress Square
Robba Fountain
Museum of Illusions
The Skyscraper (Nebotičnik)
Art Nouveau Architecture
Plečnik House
Ljubljanica River Trip
Ljubljana Zoo
Hire a Bike
Šmarna Gora
Eat Like a Local

Must-see attractions in Ljubljana

Panorama of the Slovenian capital Ljubljana at sunset.; Shutterstock ID 186963659; Your name (First / Last): Josh Vogel; Project no. or GL code: 56530; Network activity no. or Cost Centre: Online-Design; Product or Project: 65050/7529/Josh Vogel/LP.com Destination Galleries

Ljubljana Castle

Crowning a 375m-high hill east of the Old Town, this castle is an architectural mishmash, with most of it dating from the early 16th century when it was…

National & University Library

This library is architect Jože Plečnik’s masterpiece, completed in 1941. To appreciate this great man’s philosophy, enter through the main door (note the…

Triple Bridge

Running south from Prešernov trg to the Old Town is the much celebrated Triple Bridge, originally called Špital (Hospital) Bridge. When it was built as a…

Prešernov Trg

The centrepiece of Ljubljana's wonderful architectural aesthetic is this marvellous square, a public space of understated elegance that serves not only as…

Ljubljana, Slovenia - December 29, 2017: Facade of Slovenian National Gallery on 100th anniversary. Building of National Gallery of Slovenia with 100th anniversary sign in front. Narodna galerija

National Museum of Slovenia

Housed in a grand building from 1888 – the same building as the Slovenian Museum of Natural History – highlights include the highly embossed Vače situla –…

Zale Central cemetery, Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Žale Cemetery

This cemetery, some 2km northeast of Tabor, is Ljubljana’s answer to Père Lachaise in Paris or London's Highgate. It is 'home’ to a number of…

Cathedral of St Nicholas

A church has stood here since the 13th century, but the existing twin-towered building dates from the start of the 18th century. Inside, it’s a vision of…

The seat of the city government and sometimes referred to as the Magistrat or Rotovž, the town hall was erected in the late 15th century and rebuilt in…

Museum of Modern Art

This gallery houses the very best in modern Slovenian art. Keep an eye out for works by painters Tone Kralj (Family), the expressionist France Mihelič …

City Museum of Ljubljana

The excellent city museum, established in 1935, focuses on Ljubljana’s history, culture and politics via imaginative multimedia and interactive displays…

Franciscan Church of the Annunciation

The 17th-century salmon-pink Franciscan Church of the Annunciation stands on the northern side of Prešernov trg. The interior has six side altars and an…

Plečnik House

This small house in Trnovo is where local architect Jože Plečnik lived and worked for almost 40 years. There's an excellent introduction by hourly guided…

Central Market

Central Market is Ljubljana's larder and worth a trip to stock up on provisions or just have a good snoop (and sniff) around. Go first to the vast open…

Communist era "piggy" banks, Museum of Modern History.

Museum of Contemporary History of Slovenia

This museum, housed in the 18th-century Cekin Mansion (Grad Cekinov), traces the history of Slovenia in the 20th century through multimedia and artefacts…

Lined with 19th-century wooden shopfronts, quiet courtyards and cobblestone passageways, this is the heart of the Old Town. From behind the medieval…

Dragon Bridge

The much-loved Dragon Bridge, topped with four scary-looking dragons on each corner, stands northeast of the Old Town, just beyond Vodnikov trg. The…

National Gallery of Slovenia

Slovenia's foremost assembly of fine art is housed over two floors in an old building (1896) and a modern wing. It exhibits copies of medieval frescoes…

Slovenian Museum of Natural History

This museum shares the same building as the National Museum of Slovenia, and contains reassembled mammoth and whale skeletons, stuffed birds, reptiles and…

The five medieval houses at Nos 7 to 15 of this square have narrow side passages (some with doors) where rubbish was once deposited so that it could be…

Robba Fountain

The three titans with their gushing urns on this fountain represent the three rivers of the historic Slovenian province of Carniola: the Sava, Krka and…

Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova

This gallery, housed in a sleekly redesigned block building, picks up the thread from its sister institution, the Museum of Modern Art, with Eastern…

Slovenian Ethnographic Museum

Housed in the 1886 Belgian Barracks on the southern edge of Metelkova, this museum has a permanent collection on the 2nd and 3rd floors. There’s…

International Centre of Graphic Arts

This museum and gallery dedicated to the graphic arts regularly hosts rotating exhibitions and is home to the International Biennial of Graphic Arts every…

Ljubljana Zoo

The 20-hectare zoo, on the southern slope of Rožnik Hill (394m), contains some 500 animals representing almost 120 species and is an upbeat and well…

Prešeren Monument

Taking pride of place near the centre of Prešernov trg is the 1905 Prešeren monument designed by Maks Fabiani and Ivan Zajc, and erected in honour of…

Church of St Joseph

The Jesuit Church of St Joseph was built in neo-Romanesque style by the architect Anzelm Werner in 1913, then later extended and rebuilt by local…

Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity

This church, which faces Kongresni trg from across Slovenska cesta and dates from 1726, is the most beautiful baroque building in the city. It contains a…

Botanical Garden

About 800m southeast of the Old Town along Karlovška cesta and over the Ljubljanica River, this 2.5-hectare botanical garden was founded in 1810 as a…

Museum of Architecture & Design

This museum, housed in the stunningly preserved 16th-century Fužine Castle (worth the visit alone) about 5.5km east of the centre, preserves some 150,000…

The first of the Old Town’s three squares is dominated by the town hall. In front of it stands the bright-white Robba Fountain (1751).

City Art Gallery

Easy-to-miss Old Town gallery with rotating displays of modern and contemporary painting, sculpture, graphic art and photography. There's a small gift…

Plečnik Colonnade

This renovated covered walkway along the Ljubljanica River forms part of the city's Central Market.

Union Experience

This museum at the Union Brewery offers various displays of brewing, a film and a tasting. Walk here from Center.

Equrna Gallery

Arguably the most innovative modern gallery in town thanks to the discerning owner/curator.

View on building and fountain next to fountain novi trg square in Ljubljana

South of Cobblers' Bridge, this was a walled settlement of fisherfolk outside the town administration in the Middle Ages. Remnants include the very narrow…

Slovenian School Museum

This rather esoteric museum explores how Slovenian kids learned the three Rs in past centuries. The mock-ups of the old classrooms are excellent and there…

Miklošičeva Cesta

This 650m-long thoroughfare links Prešernov trg with the train and bus stations; the southern end boasts a splendid array of secessionist buildings and a…

Kongresni Trg

This lovely square, with leafy Zvezda Park (Star Park) at its centre and an underground car park beneath, was named in honour of the Congress of the Holy…

Early Christian Centre Archaeological Park

Behind the Cankarjev Dom centre is this important site, with the remains of an early Christian church portico with mosaics from the 4th century, a total…

Cobblers' Bridge

In the midst of the Old Town, a small street running west from Stari trg called Pod Trančo (Below Tranča) leads to this evocatively named footbridge…

More destinations you need to see

Aerial view of village buildings near lake

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Located in Central Europe within easy travelling distance from cities like Zagreb , Venice , Vienna or Salzburg , the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana has fast become one of the hottest places to visit in all of Europe. Charmed by the city’s small size, beautiful architecture, and pedestrianised Old Town, planning a Ljubljana itinerary has never been more popular.

Though small in size, Ljubljana has a lot to offer visitors and its compact and laid-back nature makes it accessible for visitors no matter how long they plan to spend. Rarely can you find a capital city where you can easily see all of the highlights in just one day. However, it is also possible to adequately occupy yourself when spending 2 or 3 days in Ljubljana.

This beautiful capital city that feels like a small town is one of the highlights of many a Balkan or Central European itinerary , so if you’re thinking of visiting Ljubljana, read on to find out how to plan your visit to Slovenia’s capital.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Ljubljana?

As mentioned previously, Ljubljana is a fairly compact city and you can easily see a good portion of its tourist attractions in just one day. Because the attractions are so close to each other, it can be surprising how much you can pack into just a short Ljubljana itinerary.

However, while many people try to visit the city as a Ljubljana day trip from Zagreb or elsewhere and it’s certainly possible to do this, I would personally recommend planning to spend at least one full day and preferably two or three in Slovenia’s capital.

With one day in Ljubljana, you can hit all of the main sites and tourist attractions and maybe throw a museum into the mix. With 2 days in Ljubljana, you will have the opportunity to dig deeper into the city’s attractions and culture, visit some more museums or explore areas outside of the picturesque old town.

If you have 3 days, you have the opportunity to head outside of the city and see more of Slovenia on a day trip. Whether this is to some of the country’s beautiful natural spots or to other cities, it will allow you to get a good overview of the country outside of its capital city.

Getting To and Around Ljubljana

Ljubljana is centrally located and easy to reach from several different nearby cities, with international frequent bus and train connections to cities like Zagreb , Vienna , and Venice (via Trieste).

It is also easy to reach Ljubljana via bus or train from cities within Slovenia like Maribor, Bled, or Piran and from other Austrian cities like Graz. You can view train and bus schedules here.

Once in Ljubljana, the easiest way to get around is on foot. The majority of Ljubljana’s tourist attractions lie within the Old Town, which is completely pedestrianised, meaning that you can only walk or ride a bicycle inside it — so there are no confusing bus routes to contend with!

2 or 3 Days Ljubljana Itinerary

Whether you have one, two, or three days to spend in Ljubljana, you are sure to find something to love about the Slovenian capital. If you only have a day to explore follow the first day in this itinerary and so on if you have two or three days to dedicate to visiting Ljubljana.

Day 1 – Old Town Highlights

This first day of this trip sees you exploring the main sites in the Old Town. If you want to learn more about the history of the city, you can join the Ljubljana Free Walking Tour or this food and walking tour if you want to enjoy some Slovene cuisine while walking around the city.

Central Market

Begin your day at one of the most vibrant and lively places in Ljubljana — the Ljubljana Central Market. Running every day but Sunday, this is the preferred place amongst locals to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables and for tourists to shop for local produce and handicrafts.

The market has been in operation since the 1940s after Slovenia’s favourite architect, Jože Plečnik, designed the area for this specific purpose.

The market begins operation at around 7 AM when stalls begin to be set up and closes down at around 4 PM. It is best to head there in the morning around 9-10 AM in order to see everything at its peak.

Pre š eren Square

From the market, head to Prešeren Square, the central square in Ljubljana and main meeting point within the Old Town. As part of the pedestrian zone, the square lies on the north bank of the Ljubljanica River in the foothills of the Ljubljana Castle.

Here you can also see the Prešeren monument, which was built to commemorate Slovenian poet France Prešeren, who is considered to be the national poet of the country.

Triple Bridge

Just south of the square lies the Triple Bridge, a beautiful bridge connecting both banks of the Ljubljanica River.

Though some forms of the bridge have been around for centuries, the current iteration of the bridge (which only accommodates pedestrians) was designed by architect Jože Plečnik in 1929 — as was so much of Ljubljana’s modern architecture.

Dragon Bridge

A bit further along the river at the beginning of the city’s pedestrian zone lies the iconic Dragon Bridge. Gilded with four massive copper dragons on either side and a further 12 on the bridge itself, this bridge is meant to celebrate the mythical founding of Ljubljana.

As legend has it, when the Greek hero Jason and the Argonauts were returning from Colchis (in present-day Kutaisi, Georgia ) with the Golden Fleece, they passed through Ljubljana, battled a dragon, and founded the city. This bridge celebrates that and emphasises the pride of such a small city being included in such a rich literary tradition.

If you would rather see these (and more!) bridges and other sites from the river, there are numerous boat tours along the Ljubljanica that you can take. They all cost around €15 per person and last for 30 minutes.

Ljubljana Cathedral

Another of Ljubljana’s main sites is the Ljubljana Cathedral, which is an iconic part of the city’s skyline and is officially known as the St Nicholas Church. Originally a Gothic cathedral, the building was replaced in the Baroque style in the early 18th Century.

The cathedral is most famous for its ornate bronze side door, which was designed in 1996 in honour of the papal visit from Pop John Paul II. The door depicts centuries of Slovenia’s and Ljubljana’s Catholic history and it is truly a beautiful piece of artwork.

City Museum of Ljubljana

If you want to learn more about Ljubljana’s history — spanning from before its founding to the present day — then make sure to head to the City Museum of Ljubljana . Located within easy walking distance of everywhere in the Old Town, this is a great place to learn about the Slovenian capital throughout the centuries.

Entry is €6 for adults, with discounts available for students, seniors, and families.

Ljubljana Castle

If you want to see Ljubljana from above, then hike up or take the funicular to the Ljubljana Castle. The castle complex houses a museum, numerous cafes and a small viewing platform where you can see the capital from above.

If you’re just interested in heading up the hill on the funicular, a return ticket costs €6 per person. If you want to visit the museum along with that, expect to pay €14 per adult and €11.20 for students, under 18s, and pensioners. You can purchase tickets here.

Day 2 – Beyond the Old Town

After hitting all of the attractions in the Old Town on day one of this itinerary, if you have 2 days in Ljubljana, this is how you should proceed:

Tivoli Park

Begin your day in the city’s biggest green space, the lush Tivoli Park. This tranquil park has numerous pathways, tree-lined lanes, and myriad benches to sit down and relax and escape from your busy first day.

It is a popular spot for active residents and where many locals flock to on warm and sunny days to take advantage of the fine weather. In the autumn, the colourful foliage lines the pathways making for an incredibly picturesque visit.

Museum of Modern Art

If you are a fan of art, then you must visit the Museum of Modern Art located right near Tivoli Park. Housing works from Slovenian artists from the 20th and 21st centuries, it beautifully showcases incredible works of art from local artists.

There is also a fantastic coffee shop located in the museum if you want to good cup of coffee to pick yourself up.

Entry is €5 for adults, with half-price tickets available for students and seniors.

Metelkova City

If you want to transport yourself to somewhere that is radically different from the Old Town of Ljubljana, but located only a stone’s throw away, then you need to head to Metelkova City.

Reminiscent of places like Christiana in Copenhagen , RAW in Berlin , or Uzupis in Vilnius , Metelkova is an area that is covered in street art and filled with free-thinking individuals.

Branding itself as an “autonomous cultural centre,” Metelkova was once a military barracks that turned into a squat in the early ’90s.

Today, it operates as a cultural centre where you will be able to find fun artistic things and live music. It is one of the best things to do in Ljubljana if you’re a fan of street art.

Ljubljana Skyscraper

If you want to see some of the best views of the city, then make sure to head to the viewing platform at the Ljubljana Skyscraper.

Located in the city centre just outside of the Old Town, this was the first “high rise” built in the Slovenian capital and access to its top-floor cafe and viewing platform is absolutely free of charge.

From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Ljubljana Old Town, castle, and surrounding areas while sipping on a coffee or cocktail from the cafe.

Ljubljanica River Stroll

After enjoying the views from the Skyscraper, wander back into the Old Town and end your day with a leisurely stroll along the Ljubljanica River.

Both banks are lined with numerous cafes and bars where you can pop in for a drink, coffee, or an ice cream and just enjoy the laid-back nature of Slovenia’s compact capital.

Strolling along the river is a great way to end your day in Ljubljana

Day 3 – See More of Slovenia

If you have 3 days in Ljubljana, then spend your final day on a trip outside of the capital. There are numerous places to visit in Slovenia within easy reach of the capital. Here are some of our suggestions:

The most popular day trip from Ljubljana is undoubtedly to the picturesque Lake Bled . As one of the most iconic spots in Slovenia, a visit to Lake Bled is a bucket-list item for most people.

There are numerous transit options available from Ljubljana to Bled and you can reach the beautiful lake and island castle in under an hour from the Slovenian capital. You can opt to rent a car yourself and drive, take the bus, or book an organised day tour.

Keep in mind that Bled is one of the most-visited spots in Slovenia and can get overwhelmingly busy in the peak seasons.

Lake Bohinj

If you want a less touristy alternative to Lake Bled, then you cannot go wrong with visiting Lake Bohinj . Located within easy reach from Ljubljana, Lake Bohinj is a beautiful lake surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

You can get to Bohinj in under two hours either by driving yourself, by public transit, or by organised tour.

If you want to combine Lake Bled & Lake Bohinj in one day, then we consider taking this guided tour or this full-day tour.

If you would rather visit a city as a Ljubljana day trip, then you absolutely cannot go wrong with heading to Slovenia’s second city of Maribor .

Located in the northern Styrian region, Maribor in the heart of Slovenian wine country and is packed with charm. It also receives a fraction of the tourism of other areas in Slovenia, making it an excellent alternative option if you want to get slightly off the beaten path.

It can be reached by car, bus or train in about an hour.

If you want to experience the beauty of the Istrian seaside on a day trip from Ljubljana, then you cannot go wrong with a visit to Piran .

Located a little over 2 hours from the Slovenian capital, Piran offers a completely different pace of life than any of the other day trips mentioned here. If you have a car you can also stop at Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave on the way or you can book a full-day tour here.

It is also a great stop if you plan to head south and travel through Croatia’s Istria region

Where to Eat & Drink in Ljubljana

There are lots of restaurants and cafes in Ljubljana to choose from and these were some of our favourites during our time in the city.

Druga Violina — This traditional Slovenian restaurant located in the heart of the Old Town is an excellent place to eat in Ljubljana. It is small yet incredibly popular — expect to wait for a table if you visit during peak hours! They have an extensive a la carte menu along with a great-value set lunch menu. This restaurant also employs several people with special needs.

Abi Falafel — If you’re looking for an affordable yet filling meal in Ljubljana, you cannot go wrong with this place. It is incredibly popular and perennially busy and it makes some of the best falafels to be found in the city. They also have a great breakfast option available daily until 11:30, so it’s a fantastic place to start the day, as well!

Hood Burger — If you’re craving a burger, then this is a great place to check out! With a few locations scattered throughout the city, they have a range of delicious burgers available (with the option to put a veggie patty on all of them!) at affordable prices.

Lajbah — This brewpub is an excellent option if you want to sample Ljubljana’s craft beer scene while getting a good bite to eat. With over 20 craft beers on tap — both local and international brews — and a seasonal menu, this is a great place to go to get a feel for the hip side of Ljubljana. The beer menu also rotates with the season and you’re sure to find something to suit all tastes!

Where to Stay in Ljubljana

It is worth noting that accommodation prices can be a bit higher in Ljubljana compared to that of other cities nearby and that is because the city imposes a “tourist tax” on each visitor each night they stay in the city. The fee is €3.13 per person per night — some accommodations will incorporate this into their nightly rates while others will have you pay it separately.

Adora Hotel — This mid-range hotel is centrally located within the pedestrianised Old Town and has some clean and comfortable rooms available for all sorts of travellers. There is a 24-hour reception, a hotel bar, and a great breakfast included in the room rate.

City Hotel Ljubljana — If you’re looking for a plush place to stay in Ljubljana, then you cannot go wrong with this boutique hotel. Located in the centre of the Old Town, you can reach all of the best sites of the city on foot. There are a myriad of comfortable and stylish rooms available, a restaurant and bar on-site, and a hearty buffet breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Hostel Celica — If you’re a budget or solo traveller, then this hostel is a great choice for accommodation in Ljubljana. As one of the highest-rated hostels in the Slovenian capital, they have both dorm beds and private rooms available, good common areas to meet and mingle with other travellers, and its central location means that you can reach all of the highlights of Ljubljana on foot.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Ljubljana hotels!

When to Visit Ljubljana

Ljubljana, and Slovenia in general, has a continental climate and very much experiences all four seasons so there are certainly some times of year that are better to visit than others.

If you love warm weather and don’t mind battling tourist crowds, then the high season months between June and August are going to be a good time for you to visit.

During these months, you can expect temperatures to be at their highest of the year — with high temperatures averaging around 26°C (79°F). This is also when the most tourists tend to visit and the compact old town can feel quite congested. Accommodation prices in Slovenia will also be at their peak in the summer months.

Conversely, the low season months of December-February are going to be the coldest and least busy. Expect temperatures to hover around freezing and to combat with some snowy weather.

This can be an appealing time if you want to experience some traditional Christmas markets, find a fun place to celebrate New Year’s Eve, or take advantage of some nearby skiing in the surrounding Slovenian mountains.

The shoulder seasons of March-May and September-November are my personal choice for visiting Ljubljana. During these months, you can expect crowds to be fewer, prices to be a bit lower than in the high season, and temperatures to be mild and pleasant.

In the autumn you can expect things like the wine harvest and beautiful fall foliage and in the spring you can expect to find lovely floral blooms and a city opening its eyes after a long winter.

However, no matter when you decide to visit, Ljubljana will always be a lovely destination with a lot to offer.

Planning the perfect trip to Ljubljana isn’t a difficult task, with so much on offer in the charming, picturesque and compact Slovenian capital.

Are you planning a trip to Ljubljana? Are you going on a trip around Slovenia? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

I had a great trip to Croatia in September, and it sparked my interest to visit Slovenia for Christmas week with my 3 adult children. Your travel website is very helpful! After visiting Old Towns in Croatia, I am wondering if staying in the Old Town of Ljubljana might be lovely. Also, wondering if flying to Ljubljana from New York is the best route, or if it easy to fly into other cities in Central Europe and get in Ljubljana in a short time by train.

Hi Cheryl, Ljubljana airport is very small and not all that well-connected compared to other airports so it may be a fair bit more expensive to fly into there vs other airports in the vicinity. I would suggest flying into Vienna and maybe taking the train from there?

we are planning to visit Ljubljana next week with some friends. Your post has been very helpful in planning the visit. thank you.

Thanks for your comment, Nikita! Hope you have a lovely time in Ljubljana 🙂

Superb post with stunning pictures! These are actually most beautiful places to visit in Ljubljana.

Tivoli Park looks so peaceful. Great post.

Thanks Ratheesh! The whole city of Ljubljana really does have a fantastic peaceful vibe, particularly Tivoli Park!

A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Ljubljana, Slovenia

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

If you’re visiting Ljubljana for the first time and wondering how to visit Ljubljana, our mini travel guide to Ljubljana, Slovenia is for you. From the history of Ljubljana to how to get around to where to stay and eat to Ljubljana attractions…this Ljubljana Travel Guide includes everything you need to know about the capital of Slovenia to plan a perfect Ljubljana vacation.

Visiting Ljubljana Travel Guide

s LOVE nia – the world’s most sustainable and greenest country has love in its name.

Hey! Even Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia has love in its name. Ljubljeni means beloved in Slovene.

How can you not feel LOVE when in Ljubljana 🙂

Ljubljana, the European Green Capital is an intersection of diverse epochs. A Roman city, Emona stood in place of Ljubljana about 2,000 years ago.

You can witness the ruins of Emona in contemporary Ljubljana.

Read Next: How to visit Vintgar Gorge from Lake Bled

Where is Ljubljana in Slovenia?

Ljubljana is the capital and the biggest city of Slovenia. Located right in the center of the country, it stretches between Vienna (Austria) and Venice (Italy), at an intersection of the major ancient trade route that connects the northern Adriatic to the Danube region.

It lies at the intersection of four major motorways in Slovenia and thus, effortless access from any of the cities in Slovenia and neighboring countries.

How to Pronounce Ljubljana

Okay. I make sure to learn how to pronounce the name of the city or place I’m planning to visit (especially the tricky ones like Ljubljana and this ) because how would you feel if someone pronounces your or your city’s name wrong?

Terrible, right?

Ljubljana is pronounced as lyoo-blyah-nuh . More often than not, locals pronounce it as loo-blah-na skipping the J’s altogether. Listen here .

So, J’s in Slovenian are pronounced as Y’s in English . J’s make all the difference here!

The Legend of Ljubljana Dragon

The Ljubljana Dragon is the symbol of Ljubljana. You’ll see it everywhere…buildings, Ljubljana castle, bridges, wall art, even the car registration number plates…literally everywhere.

How did it become the emblem of Ljubljana? There are a few explanations for this.

The most interesting and popular legend about the origin of Ljubljana is that the city was founded by Jason , the Greek mythological hero. The story goes that he stole the golden fleece from King Aeëtes and fled with his fellow Argonauts aboard the Argo ship.

Journeying back home (Greece) across the Black Sea and up the Danube , Sava , and Ljubljanica rivers, they made a stop at Ljubljana Marshes , the monster’s habitat. Jason fought and killed the monster, called Ljubljana Dragon now.

Jason thus became the very first citizen of Ljubljana and the dragon found a place on the Ljubljana coat of arms.

Another story about how Ljubljana became the Dragon City has to do with Christianity. The wall murals at St George Chapel in the Ljubljana Castle showcase the saint killing the dragon.

fierce dragon statue at dragon bridge ljubljana slovenia

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Best Time to Visit Ljubljana

The best time to visit Ljubljana, Slovenia is during the months of April , May , September , and October . These months of spring and autumn offer comfortable weather and lower accommodation prices.

We visited in July and it was too hot and too crowded to enjoy the city.

How Many Days in Ljubljana Should You Spend?

We were able to explore most of the must-see attractions in a day but yes it was a bit rushed.

If you want to go slow and are keen to discover the museums and galleries, set aside at least 2 days for the wonderfully cozy capital of Slovenia.

Getting to Ljubljana

Ljubljana’s strategically excellent position makes traveling to and from Central Europe, Western Europe, and the Balkans easy.

By Car or Bike

Traveling by car is the easiest, fastest, and most flexible way to travel. I’d recommend renting a car especially if you are traveling as a family.

We traveled to Ljubljana from Kranj in a rented car. It’s a quick 40-minute drive. You can take a detour to Škofja Loka if you have time.

Read our Guide to Renting a Car in Europe before you plan a European road-trip

Road Toll Vignette

Be aware that a road toll vignette is needed to drive on the Slovenian motorways and highways.

You don’t need a vignette If you drive the regional roads through quaint little villages and towns. Of course, the time to reach your destination will be doubled as the speed limit through village roads (50 km per hour) is nearly half that through motorways (130 km per hour).

Weekly, monthly, and annual vignettes are available for sale at all the petrol stations, most newspaper kiosks, some toll booths, shopping centers in Slovenia, and online . I’d recommend you purchase online or one just before entering Slovenia from a petrol station located in a neighboring country (the country you are exiting) close to the border. For more information, visit the website here .

Parking in Ljubljana

Like all other European Capitals, parking in Ljubljana is a hassle.

There are a number of parking garages, park & ride garages, and parking lots in Ljubljana. Street Parking in the center aka short-term parking has a limited parking time of a maximum of 2 hours.

We parked our car at a centrally located Congress Square parking garage. The parking cost is 1.20 Euros per hour for the first 3 hours and 2.40 Euros after 3 hours.

T he Ljubljana bus station, Avtobusna postaja Ljubljana has bus connections throughout Slovenia and to and from other European countries. Check their official website for routes and timetables.

The Ljubljana train station is next to the bus station at Trg Osvobodilne Fronte , a short walk from the center of the city. Local and International rail connections to and from Ljubljana are good.

There are direct train connections to Budapest, Graz, Salzburg, Vienna, Zagreb, Rijeka, Pula, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, and Belgrade. For more information check the official website of Slovenian Railways (Slovenske Zeleznice).

Joze Pucnik Airport , Ljubljana’s main airport is 26 km away from the center. Adria Airways (Slovenian Airlines) serves affordable flights connecting Ljubljana with major European cities. Check Ljubliana Airport’s portal for the details .

We recommend Skyscanner and WayAway for the best flight deals.

Airport Transfers

There’s an hourly public bus service between the airport and the Ljubljana Bus Station daily that costs 4.10 Euros per person. Also, a less frequent private shuttle bus service is also available that costs anywhere between 9 Euros to 19 Euros.

A taxi from the airport to the city center can cost about 35 Euros to 40 Euros.

You Might Like: Kranj – A Hidden Gem in Slovenia

Getting Around Ljubljana

Ljubljana card.

With free admission to the city’s major attractions, museums, and galleries plus unlimited free travel on public transportation during the card validity period, Ljubljana Tourist Card can save you some Euros for sure.

You can purchase the card for 24, 48, or 72 hours. You get a 10% discount if you buy your card online.

Click Here to Buy a Ljubljana Card Online

Our favorite way to explore any place is on foot. And more so if the city is as compact as Ljubljana.

Ljubljana’s strong bus network connects the entire city and its surrounding areas. To use city buses you need to have the Urbana Card which you can buy from Ljubljana Bus Station, newspaper kiosks (trafika), tourist information centers, post offices, Bicikelj bike-sharing systems, and many other locations in the city. The city buses don’t sell the Urbana Card and don’t take cash either.

The card costs 2 Euros and needs to be topped up. A single bus ride fare starts from 1.20 Euros covers up to 90 minutes of journey and allows you to change as many buses as you can in that time period.

For more information check LPP’s official website.

Bicycle Hire

Cycling is our second most preferable way (walking being the first one) to explore the destination.

Ljubljana Tourism runs the Ljubljana Bike project that makes bicycle hiring easy. You can hire a bike from the Slovenian Tourist Information Center located at Krekov trg 10 .

The bike rental is 2 Euros for a 2-hour hire period and 8 Euros for a more than 2-hour hire period.

Alternatively, you can rent a bike from Bicike (LJ) which has a huge number of docking stations in Ljubljana city center.

The first hour is free, the second hour costs 1 Euro, the third hour costs 2 Euros, and each additional hour after 3 hours costs 4 Euros.

If you are to stay in Ljubljana, you can hire a bike for a full week by paying just the 1 Euro weekly registration fee.

You can save money by returning the bike after an hour and hiring a new bicycle again for an hour. Yes.

You can easily find a taxi in the city center, though the cost will be less if you book one over the phone.

Urban Electric Train

Urban is an environment-friendly train in Ljubljana that takes you on a circular tourist trail connecting famous tourist attractions. The tour starts at Town Hall and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.

Best Ljubljana Tours

What to do in ljubljana.

From Ljubljana Old Town with its beautiful squares, charming cobbled streets, historic buildings, art nouveau architecture, and cathedrals; to Ljubljana Castle; Views over Ljubljana from the castle and the rooftop of Nebotični Skyscraper; intriguing museums, to green urban spaces: Ljubljana has an overwhelming range of amazing things to see and do.

Where to Stay in Ljubljana

Pint-sized Ljubljana has an overwhelming number and variety of accommodation options to choose from.

Here are our recommendations for you-

Hotels in Ljubljana

City Hotel Ljubljana Art Hotel Adora Hotel Grand Hotel Union Hotel Cubo Hotel Nox

Hostels in Ljubljana

Hostel Celica Art Kva Hostel MS Sparrow Hostel Turn Hostel Hostel Vrba Hostel Tivoli

Apartments in Ljubljana

OH Apartments & Rooms Apartment EMA Apartment Central Station between Dragon and Triple Bridges Royal Vega Apartments Ljubljana’s Heart Alpino

Where to Eat in Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a compact capital but there’s no dearth of great restaurants, cafes, bistros, pizzerias, and street food stalls.

Here are some of our favorites plus a few recommended by fellow travelers.

Mid-Range Restaurants in Ljubljana

Julija Restaurant

One of the best in Ljubljana Old Town, Julija is a mid-range restaurant with a great medieval ambiance that serves Mediterranean cuisine with a Slovenian touch.

Address: Stari trg 9, Ljubljana

Luxury Restaurants in Ljubljana

Manna Ljubljana

A nice place to enjoy Slovenian cuisine away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Address: Eipprova ulica 1a, Ljubljana

JB Restaurant Ljubljana

A great place for fine dining and a fancy meal. The restaurant was featured in San Pellegrino’s Top 100 World’s Best Restaurants list in 2010.

We didn’t get a chance to experience it but got recommendations from friends and relatives while we were planning our Slovenia trip.

Address: Mikloshicheva cesta 17, Ljubljana

Most Ljubljana

Great Food. Great Service. Great Location. A bit high-priced.

Address: Petkovshkovo nabrezhje 21, Ljubljana

Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants

Taman Organic

This is our other favorite in Ljubljana. Taman serves fresh organic food only. Innovative food served with love. Seriously.

If you are a vegan or a vegetarian, you gotta give this place a try.

Address: Nazorjeva ulica 3, Ljubljana

Cheap Eats in Ljubljana

Pop’s Place

Great spot to have a quick bite. Pop’s Place = quality plus quantity both at decent prices. You can enjoy yummy burgers with fries and drinks in beautiful outdoor seating.

Address: Cankarjevo nabhrezhje 3, Ljubljana

If you love non-vegetarian food, you gotta visit here for their famous traditional Slovenian dish, Kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage) .

Address: Ciril-Metodov trg 15, Ljubljana

Abi Falafel

I had to visit here for two reasons – 1. I love falafel 2. I’d heard a lot about Abi Falafel

It lives up to its name. Such delicious and crispy falafel at such reasonable prices in such large quantity – couldn’t ask for more!

Address: Trubarjeva ceste 40, Ljubljana

Druga Violina

Durga Violina literally translates to Second Violin. This restaurant is special not just because of its food but also because of its noble gesture – they employ people with disabilities.

Address: Stari trg 21, Ljubljana

Best Pizza in Ljubljana

Pizzeria Foculus

Now, this is where you can eat the best pizza in Ljubljana. They have a great choice of vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and gluten-free pizzas.

Address: Gregorchicheva ulica 3, Ljubljana

Verace Ljubljana

Verace has a great selection of pizzas, wines, and snacks. They are consistently rated high for their excellent services.

Address: Streliska ulica 22, Ljubljana

Ljubljana Street Food

Street Food BTC

BTC City apart from being a great shopping destination is an amazing food destination. Its open-air street food market with local and international delicacies attracts foodie travelers from all around the world.

The street food vendors offer anything and everything from burgers, and wraps, to international culinary ranges. There’s even a stand that sells vegan Indian food 🙂

Odprta Kuhna

Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen) is a food market where Slovenian chefs cook then and there and sell their Slovenian and other International delicacies on stalls.

The choice is varied from Slovenian to Japanese, Mediterranean, and European to fast food.

The market takes place every Friday from March until October. You can enjoy live performances with good food.

Address: Pogacharjev trg 1, Ljubljana

Bistro Ljubljana

Away from the crowds, located at the junction of Petkovškovo bank and Usnjarska Street overlooking the river, Ek Bistro is a lovely place to enjoy a good breakfast or just a cup of coffee or a glass of beer with snacks.

Address: Petkovškovo nabrezje 65, Ljubljana

Monstera Bistro

It’s the best in Ljubljana! We had a traditional Ljubljana breakfast here. Tasty food served tastefully.

Address: Gosposka Ulica 9, Ljubljana

Cafe Ljubljana

Le petit Cafe – Okrepčevalnica

Located in the charming quarter of Ljubljana, Le Petit is a great place for breakfast or brunch. We had a great cup of coffee with yummy cakes and croissants.

Address: Trg francoske revolucije 4, Ljubljana

Slovenska Hisa

Slovenska Hisa is a great place for drinks and appetizers with a nice seating area overlooking the river.

Address: Cankarjevo nabhrezhje 13, Ljubljana

Ljubljana Food Tours

Want to know the culinary scene of the place when you travel? Take a food tour!

What to Eat in Ljubljana

Barley Risotto or Beetroot Risotto @ Monstera Bistro

Real Gelato Ice-Cream @ Gelateria Romantika

gelateria romantika dvorni trg ljubljana

Burek @ Nobel Burek

Kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage) @ Klobasarna

Potica @ lePotičke

Prekmurska gibanica (Prekmurje layered cake) @ Gujžina Prekmurska Gostilna

Štruklji @ Moji Struklji

Štruklji dessert what to eat in ljubljana

Have you ever been to Ljubljana? How did you like it? We’d love to hear from you.

Or Are you visiting Ljubljana sometime soon? Hope our travel guide to Ljubljana helps you plan a great trip. If you have any questions, let us know in the comments section below. We’ll be happy to help.

Recommended Reading: Renting a Car in Europe Schengen Visa for Europe How to Plan a Trip to Europe Best Things to do in Slovenia Magical Places to Visit in Slovenia 7 Days in Slovenia Road Trip Itinerary Best Things to do in Ljubljana Vintgar Gorge, Slovenia Lake Bled, Slovenia Kranj, Slovenia

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Ljubljana Travel Guide

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The vibrant Slovene capital Ljubljana gracefully fans out from its castle-topped hill, the old centre marooned in the shapeless modernity that stretches out across the plain. It’s a dynamic and fast-growing capital packed with compelling sights, but they are only part of the picture; above all Ljubljana is a place to meet people and enjoy the nightlife.

Eating and drinking

Entertainment and events, museums west of slovenska, the old town, south of prešernov trg, st nicholas’ cathedral and the market, tivoli park.

Ljubljana’s main point of reference is Slovenska cesta , a busy north–south thoroughfare that slices the city down the middle. Most of the sights are within easy walking distance of here, with the Old Town straddling the River Ljubljanica to the south and east and the nineteenth-century quarter situated to the west, where the principal museums and galleries are.

Top image © hbpro/Shutterstock

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Slovenia, created by local experts

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From the spas of Budapest to Lake Bled with its castle and further on to Croatia - this itinerary takes you across 3 countries, with a special focus on Slovenia's lake area and the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

12 days / from 3046 USD

Gourmet Tour

You will visit three different adjacent countries and experience traditional local food and wines. You will visit some of the most intriguing restaurants and wineries in the area taste the delicious contrast between fine restaurants, and more traditional, authentic taverns.

13 days / from 3153 USD

Balkan Extended

The Balkan Extended tour truly showcases the finest of Balkan’s heritage and natural beauty as you make your way through the 5 countries. Learn about the Serbian Athens, climb the splendid Old Bridge in Mostar, observe Slovenia's water castle and dive into the pearl of Croatia's beauty in Istria.

Tailor-made trips for Slovenia

The majority of Ljubljana’s

are patronized by business people, and with prices that reflect this. Most establishments are pretty central and can be easily reached on foot from the train and bus stations. The city now has an excellent clutch of

youth hostels

, most of which have internet and kitchen facilities – where breakfast is not included in the price, expect to pay around €5. If you can’t bag a bed at any of these, there are four clean and well-run

student hostels

Dijaški dom

), with beds available between mid-June and August. P

rivate accommodation

is another option – if this is your preferred choice, head to the tourist office on Stritarjeva, who should be able to arrange something close to the centre.

Opposite the market, Študentovska ulica winds up the thickly wooded hillside to the castle , originally constructed in the twelfth century, its present appearance dates from the sixteenth century, following an earthquake in 1511. Climb the clock tower for a superlative view of the Old Town below and the magnificent Kamniške Alps to the north. A funicular railway provides a more sedate route up and down the castle hill.

The streets of Ljubljana’s Old Town are packed with restaurants to suit all budgets. The best choice for bargain snacks are the many kiosks and stands near the stations and scattered elsewhere throughout town, selling burek , hot dogs and the local gorenjska sausages. There’s a lively food market on Vodnikov trg (closed Sun) where you can pick up tasty seasonal produce. On summer evenings the cafés and bars that line the Ljubljanica spill out onto the riverbanks.

Ljubljana has a busy cultural calendar of dance, music and theatre at its purpose-built venues, as well as some exciting annual festivals.

Cankarjev Dom

Prešernova cesta 10 01/241-7100, www.cd-cc.si .The city’s cultural headquarters, hosting major orchestral and theatrical events, art exhibitions, and folk and jazz concerts.

Druga Godba

01/4308-260, www.drugagodba.si .This annual world music festival in May features concerts at atmospheric venues throughout the city.

International Summer Festival

01/241-6026, www.ljubljanafestival.si .A programme of orchestral concerts at major venues. July to mid-Sept.

National Opera and Ballet Theatre

Župančičeva 1 01/241-1740, www.opera.si .An impressive nineteenth-century Neoclassical theatre staging ballet and opera.

The alternative face of Ljubljana, Metelkova , situated a five-minute walk east of both the bus and train stations, is the city’s grungiest quarter. Concentrated in its graffitied streets are a collection of underground clubs, bars and galleries, alongside a couple of more mainstream cultural attractions. The Ethnographic Museum , located in a grand building at Metelkova 2 houses an impressive collection of anthropological artefacts. Close by at Metelkova 22, the Museum of Contemporary Art exhibits modern art from the 1960s onwards.

The town’s leafy cultural quarter boasts several impressive museums and galleries. The grand National Museum , at Muzejska ul. 1, displays archeological finds and artefacts relevant to Slovene history. The building also houses the Natural History Museum , whose star exhibit is the only complete mammoth skeleton found in Europe. The National Gallery at Prešernova cesta 24 is rich in local medieval Gothic work, although most visitors gravitate towards the halls devoted to the Slovene Impressionists, and in particular the outstanding paintings by Ivan Grohar. Diagonally across from here the Museum of Modern Art at Tomšičeva 14 showcases more experimental work from the twentieth century onwards.

While Ljubljana’s nightlife cannot match the vibrancy or diversity of larger cities, a drink on a warm summer’s evening in one of the many convivial cafés and bars strung along the banks of the Ljubljanica is one of the joys of being in this city. Alternatively, a wander up and down Mestni trg and Stari trg will yield an interesting locale every fifty yards or so, while the clutch of energetic bars in Knafljev prehod (the courtyard area between Wolfova ulica and Slovenska cesta) are usually packed to the rafters. Ljubljana’s few, but eclectic, clubs – some of which double up as multicultural, arts-type centres – are more widely dispersed throughout town, although all are within walking distance of the centre.

From the bus and train stations stroll south down Miklošičeva cesta for ten minutes and you’ll reach Prešernov trg , the hub around which everything in Ljubljana’s charming Old Town revolves. Overlooking the bustling square and the River Ljubljanica, the Baroque seventeenth-century Church of the Annunciation , blushes a sandy red; it’s worth a look inside for Francesco Robba’s marble high-altar, richly adorned with spiral columns and plastic figurines. Robba, an Italian architect and sculptor, was brought in to remodel the city in its eighteenth-century heyday. His best piece, a beautifully sculpted fountain that symbolizes the meeting of the rivers Sava, Krka and Ljubljanica, lies across the river, in front of the town hall on Mestni trg. To get there cross the elegant Tromostovje (Triple Bridge), one of many innovative creations by celebrated Slovene architect Jože Plečnik in Ljubljana, his birthplace. Plečnik made his mark on the city between the two world wars with his classically inspired designs.

On bustling Slovenska cesta in western Ljubljana, the expanse of Kongresni trg slopes away from the early eighteenth-century Ursuline Church , whose pillared Baroque exterior is one of the city’s grandest. Vegova Ulica leads south from Kongresni trg towards Trg Francoske revolucije, passing the chequered pink, green and grey brickwork of the National University Library , arguably Plečnik’s greatest work. The Illyrian Monument on Trg Francoske revolucije was erected in 1929 in belated recognition of Napoleon’s short-lived attempt to create a fiefdom of the same name centred on Ljubljana. Virtually next door is the seventeenth-century monastery complex of Križanke , originally the seat of a thirteenth-century order of Teutonic Knights, now an atmospheric concert venue.

A little east of Mestni trg, on Ciril-Metodov trg, St Nicholas’ Cathedral is the most sumptuous and overblown of Ljubljana’s Baroque statements. Decorated with fabulous frescoes, this is the best preserved of the city’s ecclesiastical buildings. Along the riverside, you can’t fail to miss Plečnik’s bustling colonnaded market . Just beyond the market is the striking Art Noveau Dragon Bridge , each corner plinth guarded by a copper dragon – the city’s symbol.

Beyond the galleries lies elegant Tivoli Park , an expanse of lawns and tree-lined walkways leading to dense woodland. It’s a lovely retreat from the busy city centre. A Baroque villa at the edge of the park contains the National Museum of Contemporary History with interactive displays and carefully presented artefacts creating an evocative journey through Slovenia’s conflict-riddled twentieth-century history.

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8 reasons you must visit ljubljana, slovenia.

Its culture and cuisine are second to none, it’s been named as Europe’s Green Capital, and there are year-round festivities to celebrate – here’s every reason you need to explore Ljubljana...

What do you look for in a city break? How about a compact, easily navigable capital city that shines like a greatest hits of other cities, a pedestrian friendly urban gem that is always a pleasure to stroll around? The Slovenian capital of Ljubljana echoes so many other cities, with chocolate box pretty medieval streets up there with Prague, grand townhouses that would charm the Viennese, remarkable Italianate churches and some of the finest art nouveau you will set eyes on anywhere.

The spectacular international influences may abound in the architecture and deliciously in the remarkable local cuisine, but Ljubljana is also brilliantly, defiantly, itself, a modern hub where the local farmers’ market stocks vegetables grown just a stroll away by old ladies in their allotments. This charmer on the banks of the willow-strewn Ljubljanica River is a clean, green oasis whose large student population gives it a buzz and spirit few other cities can match. If you want to explore a beguiling urban space that retains an authentic sense of itself Ljubljana is for you.

1: It’s set in a romantic fairytale setting

Ljubljana city view (Slovenian Tourist Board)

It really is. The first thing you see as you approach is the sort of dreamy castle you used to read about as a kid. The funicular ride up is all part of the fun, as are the sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Back on street level you ease along the cobbles half expecting to see people in medieval garb as it really feels like time has been turned seriously back. In Ljubljana the fairytale always has a happy ending with a romantic stroll along the river.

2: It was named Europe's Green Capital

Cycle around the city (Slovenian Tourist Board)

As the author of a guidebook to Ljubljana and countless articles I’ve been visiting the city annually since 1992 so it was no surprise to me when it was named European Green Capital of 2016. Green living has always been important here and I’ve watched over the years as mayor Zoran Janković has painstakingly untangled the traffic problems that blight most cities and made the core almost entirely pedestrian. New bridges have been crafted, urban spaces spiced up with public art and real thought has gone into how people use and enjoy the city . Ljubljana sports two glorious green lungs too in Tivoli Park and Rožnik Hill.

3: Prague is rated as the New Ljubljana

Triple Bridge (Slovenian Tourist Board)

Well, sort of. Travel pundits often proclaim cities the ‘New Prague’. Well mercurial, visionary local architect and urban planner Jože Plečnik hailed from Slovenia and went on to create some seminal work in Prague so it should really be Prague, the New Ljubljana. His best work, though, was in Slovenia.

Few cities bear the glorious imprint of one man as much as Ljubljana. Essential works to check out include the city’s landmark Triple Bridge, the monastery complex of Križanke and Žale Cemetery. His influence is everywhere on the riverside he revolutionised and his style lives on in today’s architects too. His most striking work is the National and University Library, a totally unique creation you cannot fail to be struck by.

4: It's home to world-class cuisine

Feast on a selection of food (Slovenian Tourist Board)

Ljubljana offers remarkable cuisine, at the heart of which is superb fresh local produce and underpinning it are eclectic dishes with influence from across Slovenia and also neighbouring countries such as Austria, Italy and Hungary. The country’s wine is stellar these days too and the city also boasts its own large brewery (Union) as well as craft breweries. Italians come here on foodie trips, which says it all.

Ljubljana is awash with excellent - and excellent value - restaurants. I’m a big fan of the long-standing fine dining temple of JB and Restaurant Strelec, where you can dine high up on the ramparts of Ljubljana Castle. Gostilna Na Gradu is also tucked up at the castle, offering authentic Slovenian dishes of yore.

One brilliant Ljubljana creation is Open Kitchen on Fridays from mid-March through October, which sees the city’s Central Market burst alive with food stalls from all over the country. This being Ljubljana there is live music and entertainment as the ideal backdrop to this top-notch foodie experience.

5: It's a capital full of culture

Ljubljana National Gallery (Slovenian Tourist Board)

Ljubljana is a deeply cultural city where history is revered and art hailed. The grand National Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art are essential stops on any visit. I also thoroughly recommend delving into the City Museum where you can come face to face with the remnants of the city’s Roman past as the city of Emona.

As night falls it is time to drift off to the Opera House or Philharmonic Hall for a performance by internationally famous acts or a celebrated Slovenian performer. Just walking around in Ljubljana is a cultural experience, as young musicians perform in the streets and you’ll often hear the strings of a violin drifting through an open window right in the city centre.

6: There are festivities all year round

Join local festivities (Slovenian Tourist Board)

The Slovenian capital is at the heart of the country’s events and festivals scene. A range of eclectic extravaganzas ripple through the year from film festivals through to the famed Christmas Markets. The highlight of the cultural calendar for me remains the Ljubljana Festival, which showcases what the city offers. Held since 1953 it has a real heritage and global standing, attracting big names from all over the world. Every summer the myriad performances grace Congress Square and the lavish Križanke, Plečnik’s remarkably re-created former monastery.

7: There's plenty to shop around

Food market – select local products as one of the best of Slovenian chefs Janez Bratovž (Slovenian Tourist Board)

Couples craving authentic shopping experiences will be in heaven in Ljubljana. If you prefer wee boutiques and independent stores then you can lose a morning or afternoon drifting through the romantic streets of the old town browsing through the eye-catching displays.

One shop is dedicated to fine chocolate, the next to lace from the town of Idrija, then another to the renowned sea salt from the south of Slovenia. The Central Market then awaits overflowing with fruit, vegetables and souvenirs, a defiant stand against the world of supermarket hegemony. At the other end of the scale is Ljubljana’s ultra modern shopping hub, BTC City, one of the largest shopping complexes in Europe with every brand name you could crave, a cinema and even a water park.

8: It's easy to take a day trip out of the city

Postojna Cave (Slovenian Tourist Board)

A rich necklace of day trips tempt within easy reach. The most famous is Lake Bled, for me the finest Alpine lake there is, whose waters are overlooked by a wee island church and a fairytale castle. I recommend strolling right around taking in its bucolic beauty or heading out on one of the traditional Pletna boasts. Head south and you can take a train deep inside the massive Postojna Cave complex, or explore the more rugged UNESCO World Heritage listed Škocjan Caves. If it’s wine you are after the Tuscan-esque hills of Goriška Brda beckon.

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LJUBLJANA: 25 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit

By continuing to read this article, you agree to double check with the authorities or other concerned entities for the latest updates.

We got stranded in Ljubljana.

We were supposed to fly out of Slovenia, but the airline we booked filed for bankruptcy and cancelled all their flights — including ours. It definitely threw a wrench into our plans because we were backpacking around Europe with a limited budget. While we were trying to figure out our next steps, we decided to extend our stay in Ljubljana. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

Prior to this, we had seen only a little bit of Ljubljana because it was raining a lot during most of our stay and we focused more on the Slovenian countryside. But staying longer meant we had more time to explore the city and enjoy more of what it has to offer!

Yes, we got stranded in Ljubljana. But it turned out to be a good thing!

Here are 25 of the best things to do and places to visit in Ljubljana. We also added a sample Ljubljana itinerary in the end.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

THINGS TO DO

Old town walking tour.

Ljubljana’s old town cradles several centuries-old structures that mostly reflect Roman and Medieval design. The historic center fuels the tourism industry of the city. You may do this on your own or by joining a guided tour, giving you a deeper insight into the rich history of both Ljubljana and Slovenia as a whole while exploring with a group.

Here are the usual stops:

Ljubljana Cathedral

Town Hall (Mestna hiša)
Triple Bridge
Preseren Square
Dragon Bridge

Central Market

There are FREE walking tours to choose from. Although this is free, it’s still recommended to give a tip at the end of the tour, especially if the guide did a great job. It depends on you how much you want to give, but it’s usually around €5 each. Feel free to add more if you really enjoyed it. For more info, check Ljubljana Free Tour .

Schedule: 11AM (Daily; afternoon tours are added during peak months) Meetup Point: Prešeren Square

However, some free walking tour groups can be so big that you’ll get a difficult time hearing what the guide is saying. If you want to be in a smaller group and you have money to spare, you can just join a paid tour. Klook is offering a package that has Ljubljana Castle in the itinerary. It also includes roundtrip funicular (cable car) tickets.

River Cruise

The Ljubljanica River is the most important body of water in this part of Slovenia. Historically, it aided trade and commerce in the city back in the Roman period. Today, boats shuttle tourists who choose to go sightseeing on a river cruise. The relaxing journey lasts for 45 minutes. This is perfect for those who are not fond of too much walking.

Schedule: 10AM, 11AM, 1PM, 2PM, 5PM, 6PM, 7PM, 8PM (Daily, April – November); 1PM, 2PM, 3PM (Daily, November – March) Price: €10 (Adult); €5 (Children 4-12 y/o) Boarding Spot: Ribji Trg Pier

Stand-up Paddling

Aside from the cruise, another activity while in the vicinity is stand up paddling down the calm waters of Ljubljanica River. This is perfect for adventurous travelers, even beginners! Before you proceed, you will be briefed first on the basics of stand up paddling. You will be joined by your instructor as you explore the city center on a paddleboard. The package is inclusive of photos.

Schedule: Twice a day (Morning: 9AM or 10AM; Afternoon: 5PM or 6PM) Price: €39 (inclusive of instructor fee, equipment rental, and photos) Departure Point: Špica Cafe

Being at the crossroads of Slavic, Germanic, and Roman cultures, Ljubljana’s cuisine is a melting pot of flavors. Its food scene offers a wide array of international dishes — Pannonian, Mediterranean, Balkan, and Alpine among others. If you are seeking gastronomic adventure, the city is laden with restaurants and food places that will make your visit worthwhile.

If you want to learn more about the food scene of Slovenia, a guided tour will take you to places where you get to taste different dishes and sample some wines while listening to stories and information shared by your local guide.

Urban Train

In Ljubljana, you’ll find several electric-powered vehicles roaming the historical core. One of them is the Urban , a train that can take you to the key tourist spots in the city from the Town Hall and Ljubljana Castle to Krakovo and back to Old Town.

The ride also provides a pre-recorded narration of information and history per stop. A roundtrip takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. You can alight whenever you want and board again using the same ticket, just like how hop-on-hop-off bus functions. Keep your ticket and don’t lose it. The ticket is only valid for that day.

Schedule: 11AM, 1PM, 3PM & 5PM (departs every two hours) Fare: €8 (Regular) Departure Point: Town Hall

Day Trips from Ljubljana

Slovenia is one of the smallest countries in Europe. In fact, you can actually explore it in a day — getting from one end to another. Located at the heart of the country, Ljubljana, the capital, is also the choice jump-off point of travelers to other destinations in Slovenia. Here are some of the attractions in Slovenia outside Ljubljana.

Lake Bled. Located northwest of Ljubljana, Lake Bled is a famous tourist destination boasting an island that nestles ancient buildings; the most prominent is the 17th-century Church of the Assumption. Bled Castle, located on the northern portion of the lake, is visible from the island.
Postojna Cave. Located southwest of Ljubljana, Postojna Cave is one of the longest cave systems in the country. This tourist-favorite karst cave features many interesting stalagmites, stalactites, cave “halls”, and other rock formations. It even has its own cave train!
Predjama Castle. Also located southwest of Ljubljana, this Renaissance castle piques the interest of tourists for its unusual location — built within the opening of the cave. The original castle was destroyed and underwent reconstructions. The castle that we see today was built in 1570.
Skocjan Caves. Located further southwest of Ljubljana, Skocjan Caves system is one of the largest in the world. It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 for its natural and cultural merits. And in 1991, it was listed in Ramsar’s Wetlands of International Importance.

For more day trip options, we compiled some of the best destinations in Slovenia in another post. You can find it here: BEST SLOVENIA DESTINATIONS!

PLACES TO VISIT

Ljubljana castle.

Ljubljana Castle dates back to the 11th-century. Constructed atop a hill, this imposing historic structure is not hard to spot, making it one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The castle grounds present a panoramic view of both the old town and the commercial city center.

Address: Grajska planota 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)

There are three ways to get to the castle:

By hiking. For those who are fit and love exploring on foot, you can take this option. You can either do it by yourself or join a group tour.
By Urban tourist train. We’ve explained how the Urban Train works. In summary, it’s like a loop bus. Fare: €8.
By funicular. The funicular is a cable car. The lower station is located at the foot of the hill. It’s close to the Central Market. Fare: €2.20 (one-way); €4 (roundtrip).

Exploring the castle grounds requires no fee. But if you want to enter other establishments such as the watchtower, Chapel of St. George, Museum of Puppets, and/or the Slovenian History Exhibition, you need to pay the entrance fee. The regular ticket is €13. This amount is inclusive of the admission fees for the castle’s viewing tower, Virtual Castle, Museum Puppetry, Slovenian History, and the two-way funicular fare.

For other special attractions, you also need to pay additional fees to experience them — Escape Castle, Behind Bars Guided Tour, or the Time Machine Guided Tour. See the rates for other tickets here!

Ljubljana Cathedral graces the Cyril and Methodius Square, commanding attention with its green dome and twin belfries. It is visible from nearby Town Hall, Central Market, and Ljubljana Castle.

Its history dates back to the 12th-century when the original church follows the Romanesque design. It was reconstructed with Gothic design architecture after a fire destroyed the first one. The present-day Baroque design was constructed in the 18th century. The interior features painted frescoes by Italian Baroque painter, Giulio Quaglio. It’s also notable for its sculpted bronze doors.

Address: Dolničarjeva ulica 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: CLOSED from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM Entrance Fee: €2 (church interior); FREE (taking photos outside)

Town Hall (Mestna Hiša)

The Town Hall is the seat of the City Municipality of Ljubljana. It features Venetian facade, grand staircase, and four exhibition halls or galleries.

The Baroque structure is located at the Town Square, which also bears the replica of the Robba Fountain with an obelisk. If you want to see the original fountain, you can visit the National Gallery. The Town Hall’s origin can be traced back to the 15th century.

Address: Stritarjeva ulica 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Entrance Fee: FREE

Triple Bridge (Tromostovje)

First constructed in 1842, the wider central bridge (main bridge) used to be a medieval wooden bridge. Today, two narrower bridges flank the main bridge — one on either side. These side bridges were meant for pedestrians; consequently, this addition to the original structure gave rise to one of Ljubljana’s famous landmarks.

The Triple Bridge links the historic center to the modern business district separated by the Ljubljanica River. From the Central Market (old town side), the bridges lead to Prešeren Square (downtown side).

Prešeren Square

Prešeren Square is Ljubljana’s central square. It used to be a busy crossroad until it was transformed into a square in the 19th century. This elliptical-shaped square is a car-free zone and a popular events venue. This is also the usual meeting point for free walking tours.

It greets tourists who pass through the Triple Bridge coming from and going to the old town. It features a monument dedicated to France Prešeren, the country’s national poet. Surrounding the square grand buildings such as the old palaces and the red 17th-century Franciscan Church of the Annunciation.

Dragon Bridge (Zmajski Most)

Built in 1901, Dragon Bridge is regarded as the most beautiful Vienna Secession style bridge and protected as a technical monument. Following its construction style and material, this reinforced concrete arch bridge mainly serves vehicles.

The bridge got its name from the four imposing dragon statues that became one of the defining features of the city.

If you want to get a glimpse of Ljubljana’s culture through its local products, the Central Market will give you more than what you are willing to bargain for. The market stretches between the Dragon Bridge and the Triple Bridge, consisting of an outdoor market, an indoor market, food stalls, and shops lining the old town side river banks of Ljubljanica.

From March to October, there’s a weekly open-kitchen event where chefs prepare and serve different international cuisines. This happens every Friday at Central Market’s Pogačarjev trg square area.

Address: Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: Outdoor Market 6AM – 6PM (Weekdays/Summer), 6AM – 4PM (Saturday/Summer), 6AM – 4PM (Monday – Saturday/Winter); Indoor Pogačarjev trg Square 7AM – 4PM (Weekdays), 7AM – 2PM (Saturdays); Indoor Plečnik’s Colonnade 7AM – 4PM (Weekdays), 7AM – 2PM (Saturdays); CLOSED (Sundays)

House of Illusions

The museum sets up over 40 interactive exhibits that are meant to trick the guests through illusions. You’ll encounter holograms, puzzles, and the Rotated Room. The Playroom will challenge your problem-solving skills with logical games. Some other highlights include the Mirror Room, Vortex Tunnel, and the Anti-Gravity Room. Book this tour through Klook for convenience. All you need to do is present the voucher emailed to you once at the museum.

✅ RESERVE A TICKET HERE!

Located south of Ljubljana Castle, Park Špica is actually a river embankment of Ljubljanica that was formerly a beach spot until it was transformed into a park.

There’s a long footbridge nearby that is made for pedestrians and cyclists. The park’s relaxing atmosphere and beautiful view attract locals and tourists alike.

Botanical Garden

Crossing the footbridge from Park Špica, you will reach the Botanical Garden (University of Ljubljana Botanical Garden). Established in 1810, it is said to be the oldest botanical garden in Southeastern Europe and the most important in Slovenia. It nurtures more than 4,500 species and subspecies of plants and trees, earning the title “The Green Soul of Ljubljana”. It also has a glasshouse and tea house where you can rest after a refreshing stroll.

Address: Ižanska cesta 15, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: 7AM – 7PM (Daily, April – May & September – October); 7AM – 5PM (Daily, November – March); 7AM – 8PM (Daily, June – August) Entrance Fee: €2.80 (Regular); €1.30 (Reduced)

Plečnik House

If Barcelona has Antoni Gaudi, Ljubljana has Jože Plečnik. A native of Slovene, he had a pivotal role in shaping the city’s architectural landscape and leaving his marks in many historic structures that have major cultural significance in Slovenia. His influence went beyond his birthplace and extended to Vienna and Prague.

In Slovenia, he designed numerous buildings and sites — Triple Bridge, Central Market, Ljubljanica River embankments, Slovene National and University Library, squares, etc.

Plečnik House will let you take a peek into his personal and professional life. It houses many of his memorabilia and works, including sketches and plans. The house is also well-preserved and appears exactly as it was before he passed on. You can explore on your own or join a guided tour.

Address: 6, Karunova ulica 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday – Sunday); CLOSED (Mondays and holidays) Entrance Fee: €6 (Regular); €4 (Reduced)

Križanke Church and Monastery

The Križanke Church and Monastery has a long history of building and rebuilding from the 13th century to the 18th century.

In 1945, it ceased to function as a monastery and was transformed into a cultural venue, particularly for Ljubljana Festival. The remodeling project started in 1952 designed and completed by Jože Plečnik.

The complex contains an open-air theater within the deserted monastery, the Križanke Church, the Devil’s Courtyard, and the Knight’s Hall. The nearest landmark is the St. James Bridge.

Address: Trg francoske revolucije, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: No definite time. It’s usually close unless there’s an event or festival, usually in summer. You can still admire it from outside the complex.

Congress Square

Located near the historical Cobblers Bridge, the Kongresni Trg (Congress Square) is one of the significant squares in Ljubljana.

It was built in the 19th century on the grounds where the Capuchin monastery once stood. The original square was smaller, but its purpose as a venue for important ceremonies and gathering still continues up to today. In fact, it got its name from the monumental Congress of Ljubljana. The square features Park Zvezda (Star Park).

Other major buildings in the vicinity are the University of Ljubljana Palace, Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity, Philharmonic Hall, and the Slovene Society Building.

Republic Square

Located just a short walk west of Congress Square is the Trg Republike (Republic Square) . The planning started in 1960 and designed by one of Plečnik’s students, Edvard Ravnikar. The modernist-style square is the largest in the city and a symbol of modern Ljubljana.

It is where the nation’s independence was declared in June 1991, making it the most notable square in Slovenia. From the square, you can spot the National Assembly Building and Cankar Hall.

Tivoli Park

Sprawling out over five square kilometers at the heart of Ljubljana, Tivoli City Park is the largest park in the city. It was conceptualized in the first quarter of the 19th century by Jean Blanchard, a French engineer. It is peppered with statues and fountains and path walks meander through the lush greenery.

Nestled inside the park are Tivoli Castle, Tivoli Sports Hall, National Museum of Contemporary History, and Jakopič Promenade — a scenic open-air gallery designed by well-respected Slovene architect, Jože Plečnik.

Krakovo is a historic district situated on the left side of the Ljubljanica River, near St. James Bridge and Križanke. Although stretched out on the downtown side of the river, it retains its medieval-period atmosphere where people thrive on gardening and fishing.

The district is the offspring of the marriage between the old and the new. The district still supplies the Central Market with fresh produce.

Metelkova Mesto

This former military base was saved from being demolished by a group of artists and intellectuals known as the Metelkova Network when they started transforming the complex into an alternative art and cultural hub.

The complex is the venue for various activities and events, attended by an interesting mix of crowd. This is one of the hippest places to be. Metelkova Mesto is just three blocks away from Ljubljana’s main train station.

National Museum of Slovenia

Located near Tivoli Park, beside the Russian Embassy, the National Museum of Slovenia is the oldest in the country. It shares the same roof with the Slovenian Museum of Natural History inside a 19th-century neo-Renaissance palace. It displays a great collection of archaeological artifacts.

Permanent exhibits are Prehistoric Treasures of Slovenia, Roman Stories from the Crossroads, and The Roman Lapidarium.

Address: Muzejska ulica 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily, Sunday – Wednesday & Fridays); 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Thursdays & Saturdays); CLOSED (January 1, May 1, November 1 & December 25) Entrance Fee: €6 (Regular); €4 (Reduced)

National Gallery

Also located in the vicinity of Tivoli Park and National Museum of Slovenia is the National Gallery. Founded in 1918, the museum is relocated from Kresija Palace to its current 19th-century host building.

The museum houses almost 600 permanent art pieces from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, the largest in Slovenia. The original Robba Fountain, named Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers, is preserved and maintained here. The National Gallery also has a library, a shop, and a cafe.

Address: Prešernova cesta 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday – Sunday EXCEPT Thursdays); 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Thursdays); CLOSED (Mondays and holidays) Entrance Fee: €10 (Regular); €5 (Reduced)

SAMPLE LJUBLJANA ITINERARY

DAY 1: ARRIVAL & TIVOLI PARK 01:30 pm – Arrival at Ljubljana Station 01:40 pm – Walk to hotel 02:00 pm – Hotel check-in – Settle tourist tax, 9.39€ 02:30 pm – Late lunch, 10€ 03:20 pm – Walk to Tivoli Park 04:00 pm – Tivoli Park 07:30 pm – Grocery shopping, 20€ 08:30 pm – Dinner at hotel 09:30 pm – Lights out *Best if you could catch the sunset

DAY 2: LJUBLJANA TOUR 09:00 am – Wake up, breakfast 10:00 am – River cruise, 10€ 11:00 am – Free walking tour, tip: 5€ 02:30 pm – Lunch, 10€ 04:30 pm – Ljubljana Castle* (via funicular), 13€ 06:00 pm – Walk around Old Town 07:30 pm – Dinner, 10€ 09:00 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 3: SLOVENIA TOUR 07:00 am – Walk to meetup point 08:00 am – Best of Slovenia Tour, 139€, Book here! (XXX Klook Link) – Kremsnita, 5€ – Lunch, 15€ – Tip guide, 10€ 07:00 pm – Dinner, 10€ 09:30 pm – Back to hotel

DAY 4 – DEPARTURE 08:30 am – Pack up 10:30 am – Early check out, leave bags 11:00 am – Early lunch, 10€ 12:00 pm – Leave for station for next city

TOP APARTMENTS & HOTELS IN LJUBLJANA

If you’re staying in Ljubljana as your base, here are some of the top properties in the city, as scored by Agoda customers.

Adora Apartments and Rooms. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Urban Hotel Ljubljana. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Hotel Mrak. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Apartment Megapolis. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Apartment Nuk. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
AB Ljubljana – The Princess Castle Triplex. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
Apartments Maria. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Ljubljana Hotels!

Edited by Asta Alvarez 2020 • 9 • 8

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SLOVENIA TRAVEL GUIDE: Ljubljana Itinerary & Budget
12 DAY TRIPS FROM LJUBLJANA: Best Destinations in Slovenia

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A woman in a red skirt stands in front of a decorated wall at one of the many art studios in Metelkova in Ljubljana.

Cultural Travel , Slovenia

Things to Do in Ljubljana, Slovenia – Slovenia’s Capital Beyond its Old Town

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From historical architecture to edgy street art to cultural sites and a vibrant gastronomy circuit, here are all the things to do in Ljubljana to see it differently. A guide to Slovenia’s capital beyond its Old Town status.

In Ljubljana, you will immediately see that Slovenia’s capital is all the pretty things you hear about.

Except, travel to Ljubljana is more than the sum of its charming Old Town status that many do not look beyond, thereby setting a course in time for overcrowding and missing out on the young, artistic minds that have come to shape the city. The centre of Slovenia and a lesser-known darling of central Europe, Ljubljana will charm you with its old town but surprise you with how much more it offers.

This guide to Ljubljana will show you how it is a mix of the old and charming, dominated by the architectural visions of the father of design, Plečnik, mixed with the hip cultural and art scene alive in alternative neighbourhoods and the student influence, and with access to relaxation and adventure in the surrounding countryside, where 70% of Slovenia’s population resides.

It might just be time to re-think your European city-hopping route.

People walking over the Tromostovje Triple Bridge towards pinks and white classical buildings in Ljubljana, the Capital of Slovenia.

Is Ljubljana Worth Visiting?

How many days do you need in ljubljana, what time of the year is best to visit ljubljana, how to get to ljubljana and around, attractions in ljubljana, where to stay in ljubljana, getting around ljubljana, visit ljubljana charm in the old town, ljubljana’s architectural legacy – jože plečnik’s urban design, visit open kitchen market (every friday), check out the castle in ljubljana – the symbol of the city, see metelkova – ljubljana’s alternative arts scene, visit the rog factory – ljubljana’s creative hub, ljubljana city tours and excursions in slovenia, things to know about travel to ljubljana.

Ljubljana has a small-town feel but with big European capital vibes, which is what you can expect from a capital that sits between central Europe and the Mediterranean. Its multi-faceted layers, including food, art, nightlife, history, and culture, are perfect for curious travellers. Located in the centre of Slovenia, the city is also a pivotal point to explore all corners of the country easily, which can be easily done via day trips.

At the very least, you need two days in Ljubljana to see its Old Town and the art district of Metelkova. My four days allowed a more comfortable exploration, more time to try out restaurants and bars, and allowed time for day trips to the nature region surrounding the city.

Ljubljana is considered to have a ‘continental climate’, making it both a winter haven, given the nature surrounding it, and a summer hotspot with its beautiful Mediterranean climate.

Well connected by rail, European buses like Flixbus, and by plane.

The Slovenian company GoOpti also operates car transfers between neighbouring European cities and neighbouring country airports in Germany, Austria, Croatia and Italy. We took the GoOpti transfer from Graz to Ljubljana, and I also took it back to Vienna from Ljubljana, where you share a car with other travellers booked on the same journey or route. You are reminded about your journey via text 24 hours before and when your vehicle arrives.

The Ljubljana card is an all-inclusive card giving you access to over 20 major attractions and museums, travel on the city buses, a guided city tour and 24-hour Internet access. You can save 10% by booking online.

24 hours: €27
48 hours: €34
72 hours: €39

Budget. Hostel Celica Art is a former prison turned design hostel in the alternative area of Metlekova. It has 20 unique cell rooms to choose from. It’s five minutes from the main train station and 10 to the heart of town.

Midrange. I stayed in Hotel Galleria on the fringes of the Old Town. It sits on the corner of some restaurants and coffee shops (open until late) and is a five-minute walk to the centre of the old town where the action is.

Luxury. For those looking to splash out, the 4 star Grand Union Hotel s situated just metres from Prešeren Square and the Triple Bridge. Constructed in the early 20th century, it is the oldest building Ljubljana, built during the Austro-Hungarian monarchy. It is considered one of central Europe’s most significant Art Nouveau architectural structures.

The Old Town is a vehicle-free zone, but a free shuttle bus/buggy system called Kavalir (gentle helper) exists where you can get from one end of the Old Town to another quickly. It’s handy at times, although the joy is in walking.

If you want to use the bus (without a Ljubljana card), you will need to purchase an ‘Urbana’ card from a newspaper stand. It costs €2. Each bus ticket cost €1.20 and is valid for 90 minutes.

Bikes are everywhere in Ljubljana – you’ll feel like you are in Amsterdam. Should you wish to join the city cyclists, bicycles can be hired in summer and autumn from the Slovenian Tourist Information Centre on Krekov trg 10, for €2 for 2 hours and €8 for two hours or more. You can also use the Bicike (LJ) hire network with 36 docking stations around the city. The first hour is free, and every additional hour is €1. You have to register online first.

Things to Do in Ljubljana to See it Differently

Like any visitor, the Old Town was top of the list to explore. Like most former medieval strongholds, it’s compact yet full of a long, historical timeline of architectural styles and charms. In Ljubljana, this means endless cobblestone conveyor belts of streets that present numerous bridges, intricate townhouse facades, palaces, fountains, statues, monuments, churches and squares (of which Trg Republike next to the Slovenian parliament building is the largest).

Mint green statues, a square full of people and the white washed buildings of Ljubljana Old Town.

The architecture of Ljubljana Old Town – a living historical timeline.

Riverside arched colonnade restaurant in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Riverside restaurant in Ljubljana Old Town, Slovenia

The pink, classical style Franciscan Church of the Annunciation on Prešeren Square in Ljubljana.

The Franciscan Church of the Annunciation on Prešeren Square in Ljubljana.

Galerija Emporium in Ljubljana Old Town, Ljubljana's first department store in 1903.

Galerija Emporium fashion store in Ljubljana Old Town, home to Ljubljana’s first department store in 1903.

Place all of that within the Mediterranean atmosphere of streets lined with tables, humming outdoor markets, a slew of coffee shops and those revelling in wine tasting and locals casually wheeling past pastel boulevards on their bicycles, and you’ve got yourself a very attractive city.

Al freso dining in Ljubljana Old Town, Slovenia.

One of the best things to do in Ljubljana is enjoying the al fresco street life.

People al fresco dining at golden hour in a pretty street in old town Ljubljana.

Old town dining alfresco at sundown.

Cafes and stores on Ljubljana Old Town streets in the Capital of Slovenia.

Rows of cafes and stores line Old Town streets in Slovenia’s capital.

Old crumbling building in Ljubljana Old Town, Slovenia.

Crumbling, historical charm in Ljubljana’s timeworn streets.

There are remains of the Roman city of Emona in the serene, green-filled outer city suburb of Trnovo – one of the oldest areas of the city, built outside of the city medieval walls, that used to be home to the fisherman.

Then you have the remnants of the medieval days, including the 15th-century old town hall on Mestni trg (street), behind the 20th-centry Robba Fountain (The Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers). Stroll Vegova Ulica street to follow the course of the former medieval town wall, where a tower still stands at the end of the street.

Mestni Trg fountain and Roman square - one of the places to visit in Ljubljana old town.

Robba Fountain in Mestni Trg is one of the historical places to visit in Ljubljana.

Renaissance-era and Baroque (the latter designs found mostly in Stari trg, the oldest part of the city) fill the town, as they do in most European cities. In Ljubljana, the more quirky Art Nouveau structures from the early 20 th century can be found between the old city and the railway station. The Dragon’s Bridge, adorned with giant emerald green dragon figures, is the city’s first Art Nouveau creation from 1901.

Yellow and white renaissance era buildings in Ljubljana Old Town, Slovenia.

One of Ljubljana’s Renaissance-era buildings.

One of Ljubljana's attractions is the famous green dragon on a column of The Dragon’s Bridge.

Find Ljubljana’s famous green dragon at the end of The Dragon’s Bridge.

You can’t miss the design works of Plečnik – Ljubljana’s famous architect and urban designer.

Jože Plečnik – known as the Slovenian father of design – left his visionary marks in many parts of Europe (having studied in Graz, Vienna and later becoming the Chief Architect in charge of Prague castle renovation), but he transformed his hometown of Ljubljana in the period between the two world wars (the era referred to as ‘Plečnik’s Ljubljana’).

All his works in Ljubljana were created in less than 20 years and his constructions here are rated some of the most prominent works of European art of the 20 th Century. You likely stumble or stroll upon them without realising but the main design works include:

The Cobbler’s Bridge (connecting Mestini trg to Stari trg) is designed to be a ‘square’ above the water.

Poeple walking over the Plečnik designed Cobbler’s Bridge in Ljubljana in front of old town buildings.

The Cobbler’s Bridge in Ljubljana designed by Jože Plečnik.

Then there’s the Triple Bridge (where two bridges were added to an original stone bridge) and the Butcher’s bridge (to create more space in the central market’s colonnade for trading), which you can spot by the love locks and opaque floor.

The Plečnik designed Triple Bridge in Ljubljana, at the foot of the hilltop castle.

The Triple Bridge in Ljubljana, one of Jože Plečnik’s core urban designs

The Triple Bridge is one of the things to see in Ljubljana. connecting parts of the pink and pastel old town.

The other side of the Triple Bridge connects two sides of Ljubljana’s old town.

There’s also the Žale Cemetery, the promenade in Tivoli Park (Ljubljana’s largest) and the National and University Library.

The National and University Library in Ljubljana.

I visited the NUK Café in the library to take part in an honourary Plečnik tradition – for tea, just as it was made for him by his housekeeper, in a strainer cup just like the one he used, and served with a honey biscuit (Plečnik loved honey), before heading to his house (Karunova 4-6) in Trnovo . A modern structure combining classical elements, it is now a permanent exhibition and has been left the exact same way since his death in 1957.

You can grab a map of Plečnik’s 39 works in Ljubljana from the Tourism Information centre and go on a self-guided walk.

Visiting the Plečnik house in Trnovo, Ljubljana - a modern structure with classical elements including columns.

Visiting the Plečnik house in the Trnovo neighbourhood of Ljubljana

The study room inside Plecnik’s house.

The bedroom with wooden panelled details and small bed inside Plecnik's house in Ljubljana.

Plecnik’s bedroom, in his house whose interior hasn’t changed since he died.

BOOK: A tour of Plecnik’s work in Ljubljana and what inspired him, including a visit to his office at the Faculty of Architecture, a boat cruise on the Ljubljanica river and lunch in the Plečnik House garden.

Ljubljana is not just about architecture. The cirty thrives on the atmosphere that comes from reinventing tradition. The food and drink scene mixes traditional with modern in a city where young local chefs and international kitchen wizards are the force behind the reinvention.

We had lunch in Atelje, cooked up by one of Ljubljana’s award-winning chefs. Other recommendations include the healthy menu of Mala Terasa Bistro in the Skyscraper Nebotičnik for food with a view, and to sample the international influence of Slovenian cuisine, check out the Japanese chef influence at Bazilika and the middle-eastern feasts at Abi Falafel.

However, to get a real taste for Ljubljana’s vast options, the Open Kitchen Market should be top of your list. Every Friday the best chefs and city restaurants come together , each with their stall for locals and visitors to enjoy dishes on the spot. All washed down with fines wines, a good crowd and some music pumping in the background. It’s crowded, but for good reason.

Crowds gather around stalls and tables at the Open Kitchen Market in Ljubljana every Friday.

Visit the delicious Open Kitchen Market in Ljubljana every Friday.

A selection of food dishes and glasses of wine on a table at at Ljubljana's outdoor Open Kitchen Market.

Sample an array of modern Slovenian cuisine, all in one place.

BOOK: If you can’t make it for the Open Market, check out this Ljubljana good tour where you wander the old town with a professional guide and taste history via nine Slovenia culinary specialities and four local wines. Or take this 3-hour food tour through authentic Slovenian restaurants .

For a wonderfully presented breakfast 376 metres on the hill, head to the restaurant Gostilna na Gradu at the grounds of Ljubljana castle and fuel up for a day of exploration. In showcasing traditional eats and local ingredients, this breakfast serving is part of a project established in 2015, giving hoteliers and restaurants the chance to bring the farm to the table.

Elevenwhite cups full of various breakfast spreads, meats and cheeses presented on a wooden board with a croissant - part of the famous breakfast at Gostilna na Gradu at Ljubljana castle.

The famous breakfast at Gostilna na Gradu at Ljubljana castle

The site of a former fortress, military warehouse, army barracks, prison and even apartments is worth strolling, especially for the panorama views and walks along the old ramparts and towers.

Wide street view to Ljubljana castle on the top of the forested hill.

Ljubljana castle atop a grassy hill, always looking over the city.

It’s a complex catalogue of Ljubljana’s past – whose early beginnings in the early 1100s are recorded before being turned into a stone fortress in the 13 th century, where it came under the estate of the Habsburgs in 1335 who demolished it and rebuilt it as new. It was ‘repurchased’ in 1905 by the then major of Ljubljana from Austro-Hungarian authorities.

Inside the fortress grounds of Ljubljana Castle.

The castle is now the core symbol of the city and the most visited tourist attraction, complete with interactive exhibitions on Slovene and Ljubljana history. There are even stones with fossils dating back 310 million years! So take the one-minute funicular ride up, whether for breakfast, the city views, or to enjoy one of the many social and cultural events like theatre shows, open-air cinema screenings, ‘Castle Summer Nights’ concerts and major annual events, including the Pink Week Ball that I attended.

I’m always seeking out the ‘other side’ to these pretty pastel old cities, and in Ljubljana, artists have found their space for expression. While small murals can be found in the old town, you’ll know when you’ve reached the grittier neighbourhoods.

A cyclist passing a small street art mural in Ljubljana old town.

Smaller street art mural in Ljubljana’s old town.

These corners of the city are home to street art, sculpture art, artist galleries and studios that are home to an underground music scene of alternative bars and clubs at night. I couldn’t imagine Ljubljana without this contrast since it’s such a striking and fascinating difference to the Old Town.

A narrow, gritty street in Ljubljana full of graffiti, street art murals, and unkempt buildings.

See the gritty, art areas that neighbour the old town.

Visiting Metelkova is one of the fun things to do in Ljubljana and a way to explore the city’s new persona. This colourful, funky, whacky place of artistry and alternative nightlife was once an abandoned barracks site. It turned urban squat and later was reclaimed by artists who use the spaces as open studios and small business ventures.

The further injection of cool comes from Ljubljana’s 60,000 students, many of whom live in and frequent the area of Metelkova.

One of the many art studios in Metelkova in Ljubljana, Slovenia

In the daytime, I loved photographing the eclectic mix of art, from wall mosaics to giant sculptures (including a horror-house looking façade of giant sperm), and at night I ventured out to revel with the cool kids and students of the city as they party in these clubs and gather in droves on these very streets. I got a good feel for the real Ljubljana as it stands today – young, vibrant and outrageously artistic.

The eccentric, horror-style sperm sculpture in the artistic Metelkova neighbourhood of Ljubljana.

One of the more eccentric sculptures in Metelkova.

A building entirely painted in tile-style murals in Ljubljana's Metelkova art centre.

A painted old barracks building in Metelkova Art Centre.

Wall art murals in AKC Metelkova.

A mosaic covered bar and venue space in the Metelkova art space in Ljubljana.

Metelkova’s art space is also home to some cool bars and music venues

The hostel on-site, should you want to base yourself here, is a former prison where all rooms are former cells and still made to look the same, but with more comfortable touches!

The pink and red building is a former prison turned Hostel Celica in Metelkova, Ljubljana.

The former prison turned Hostel Celica in Ljubljana’s reformed abandoned barracks area.

One of the cell themed bedrooms of Cecila Hostel in Ljubljana, which was once a prison.

One of the cell themed bedrooms at Cecila Hostel

I was told there wasn’t a lot to see at the Rog Factory, which is a short walk away from Metelkova, but I disagree. Should the door to the site be open, it’s well worth a wander through this creative space.

One room was an ariel silk practice area, other artists were working away in their small studios and the courtyard was filled with junk art, murals and even a robot sculpture made of metal. It’s a fascinating, reformed space where, creativly, anything goes.

A cyclist rides past a wall covered in art murals, marking the entrance to the creative Rog Factory in Ljubljana.

Entrance to the Rog Factory in Ljubljana.

Art sculptures and a large studio building inside the Rog Factory in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Rog Factory is a fascinating and random place.

Sculptures at the entrance building to an abandoned factory in Ljubljana.

One of the art studios at Ljubljana’s Rog Factory

A bundle of art sculptures and paintings outside one of the studios of the repurposed building of the Rog Factory in Ljubljana city.

Art and sculpture at the repurposed building on the outskirts of Ljubljana city centre.

Ljubljana Day Trips – Adventures in City Nature

Ljubljana is described as a “small capital with a green soul”, which means there’s plenty more to visually feast on than the gorgeous old town architecture. Central Slovenia is a blanket of nature filled with lakes, hills and mountains. From the marshes to the high peaks, outside of the city is a playground for hiking, biking and countryside wandering, with national parks and trail highlights accessible as day trips from Ljubljana.

READ MORE: Adventure Day Trips in Ljubljana and Around – Hiking and Biking Slovenia’s Nature.

People visiting the unique silver triangular houses of the Velika Planina Shepherd Settlement in Slovenia.

Visiting the Velika Planina Shepherd Settlement on a day trip from Ljubljana.

There’s a host of city tours and day excursions, from culinary and cultural walks to beer and bicycle tours, as well as day trips to many parts of Slovenia and neighbouring countries such as Italy. All can be booked from the Tourism Office in the heart of the Old Town on Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje. Slovenia is so small, it is said you can visit any point of the country in a day.

My trip to Ljubljana was a combination of a #EuroCityTrip project to highlight the city as a ‘cool neighbour’ to Austria’s second-largest city of Graz in partnership with both city tourism offices. Perfect as part of a multi-country city-hopping trip, you’ll be surprised how much they have in common being so close to one another.

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

3 Days in Ljubljana: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Mighty dragons guard historic bridges, a medieval castle towers above red-roofed townhouses, and old Roman ruins lie underfoot. Welcome to Ljubljana, one of Europe’s most fascinating capital cities.

Located along the unusually green waters of the Ljubljanica River, Slovenia ’s capital and largest city is always surprising. Founded by Roman soldiers over 2,000 years ago, Ljubljana has always been on the frontier of great empires, and the beautiful Old Town is a patchwork of Austro-Hungarian and Italian influences, framed by the brutalist buildings of the later Yugoslavian communist era.

The capital of an independent Slovenian nation since 1990, you’ll love the newfound confidence that sweeps along the banks of the Ljubljanica River. Abandoned army barracks in Metelkova have been transformed into art galleries and nightclubs, while new Michelin-starred chefs craft Slovene-inspired tasting menus in Ljubljana’s feisty restaurants.

In summer, the city hosts a month-long summer music and cultural festival, and in winter, the rooftops are covered in a light layer of snow as the smell of baked potica drifts through festive markets. Whatever time of year you choose to visit Ljubljana, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time.

And while a weekend in Ljubljana is enough time to fall in love with the city’s quirky architecture and lively cultural scene, you’ll find there’s so much more you’ll want to see. Slovenia is a small country, and with Ljubljana as your base, you can hike to nearby mountains, explore the Julian Alps, and, of course, day trip to glorious Lake Bled. Keep reading to discover our perfect 3-day Ljubljana itinerary!

If you’re still deciding where to stay then make sure to check out our article on the best boutique hotels in Ljubljana !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

How to Spend a Weekend in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Getting around ljubljana.

As your 3 days in Ljubljana begin, you’ll soon realize that the Slovenian capital is a compact city that’s a real pleasure to walk around. The city spirals outwards from its Old Town, which is itself set around a prominent hilltop on which Ljubljana Castle was built many centuries ago. Use the castle’s towers as your guiding reference points, and you’ll never lose sight of the Old Town, even if you do get lost among its cobbled medieval streets!

The Old Town sits on the eastern side of a bend in the Ljubljanica River, and you’ll find that the best sights and attractions are all just a short walk away from the river banks. You can even take a boat cruise along the river to see more.

Further out, suburbs like Metelkova or places like Tivoli Park are only a 30-minute walk from the Old Town. The city also has an excellent and inexpensive bus service, and you can rent bicycles and easily get around town on two wheels. You may wish to purchase the Ljubljana Card , which gives you unlimited use of public transport, a walking tour, and entrance to most major attractions in the capital.

As Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana is a transport hub for the rest of the country and neighboring European cities. You can take trains to many destinations, including Lake Bled, Zagreb, Rijeka, Pula, and even Munich and Zurich. The bus connections are even better, with domestic and international connections to anywhere in Slovenia and Europe.

Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport is the city’s (and country’s) primary international airport, with flights to many major European cities, including London, Paris, and Budapest. The airport is a 45-minute bus ride from the city center, or you can jump in a taxi.

Explore the City of Ljubljana

Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary – Day 1

You’ve got a lot to pack into your 3-day trip to Ljubljana, and we recommend starting your visit with a walking tour of the main sights in the capital. As we already mentioned, Ljubljana is an excellent place to explore on foot, and you can either join a dedicated walking tour led by a local guide or put your own itinerary together using the major sights we’ll list below.

The Franciscan Church of the Annunciation

3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Franciscan Church

There are “free” city tours throughout the year, departing from the famously pink church (the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation) in Prešeren Square. There’s a departure at 11 am daily, with additional departures at 3 pm and 6 pm during the summer season. You only pay what you feel the tour was worth at the end, although you can also book private walking tours or specialist walking tours (including “communist tours,” for example).

Prešeren Square & Triple Bridge

Weekend in Ljubljana 3 Days Itinerary: Preseren Square and Triple Bridge

Your tour of Ljubljana starts with an introduction to Prešeren Square, the city’s pedestrianized central square. You’ll see the Prešeren Monument, which is dedicated to the country’s national poet, Frances Prešeren, who wrote epic stories of Slovenian nationhood when the country was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the first half of the 19th century.

Prešeren Square is where the Old Town really begins, and from here, you’ll see where the old city gates stood before crossing over the Triple Bridge, which connects the two halves of Ljubljana. The Triple Bridge is your first introduction to the work of famous Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, who designed much of early 20th-century Ljubljana and gave the city the contemporary character it still has today.

3 Days in Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary: Preseren Square and Triple Bridge

On the opposite side of the river, you’re now in the medieval part of the city. The castle will be above you as you stroll along to Ljubljana Cathedral, a beautiful baroque masterpiece that was built in the 1700s on the site of an even earlier cathedral that was thought to have been built in the 13th century. Walk past the Central Market and keep to the riverbank, and you’ll now see two more of Ljubljana’s most famous bridges.

Butcher’s Bridge & Dragon Bridge

First is Butcher’s Bridge. It sounds ominous, but actually, Butcher’s Bridge is covered in padlocks left behind by couples looking to eternalize their love for one another. The bridge was built in 2010 but was based on an original plan envisioned many decades earlier by Jože Plečnik.

You can purchase a padlock nearby and lock it to the railings, or you can just take in the view of the Ljubljanica River as you walk on over. The second bridge, which you can see from Butcher’s Bridge, is the iconic Dragon Bridge. The green dragon is the symbol of Ljubljana, and wonderful dragon sculptures guard the entrance to this elegant river crossing, which was first opened in 1901.

3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Butchers Bridge

Stay on the “modern” side of the river, then follow the path back toward Prešeren Square and keep going until you reach the beautiful buildings of the University of Ljubljana. You’ll have an excellent view looking up from Congress Square, before you cross over yet another bridge (the equally famous Cobbler’s Bridge, which is lined with Greco-Roman plinths and pillars) before ending up at Ljubljana’s historic Town Hall and Town Square.

Weekend in Ljubljana 3 Days Itinerary: Lunch in Old Town

You’re back in the Old Town now, after a busy walk weaving backward and forwards over the new and old parts of Ljubljana. It’s time for lunch, and you can choose between a riverside setting at Slovenska Hisa , where you can try Slovenian charcuterie and sharing boards made with local produce, or Capriccio in the square, where you can enjoy the Italian influence found in Slovenian cuisine.

Ljubljana Food & Wine Tour

Castle Hill (Ljubljana Castle)

After lunch, jump on the funicular and take in the sights as you rise to the top of Castle Hill. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend exploring the castle as you walk along parapets and enjoy magnificent vistas across the red-roofed skyline of the Old Town below. The castle dates back to at least the 12th century AD, although much of the architecture you see today was added in the Baroque style by the Habsburgs in later centuries.

3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Ljubljana Castle

Learn more about Slovenian history (dating back to Neolithic times) in the castle’s museum, then pop into the lighthearted Puppet Museum to learn about the surprising history of Slovenian puppetry. There’s a lot to do in Ljubljana Castle , including live roleplaying and escape games, temporary art galleries, and even a nightclub.

We recommend hanging around until the sun sets. You can even stay for dinner and drinks. The castle is home to several cafes and restaurants, including the excellent Gostilna na Gradu , where you can order traditional Slovenian fare with a view of the city. After dinner, take the funicular back down to the Old Town, where you can enjoy a few aperitifs in the bars around Town Square.

Visit the Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary – Day 2

Your Ljubljana itinerary continues on Day 2 with another action-packed day of sightseeing in the Slovenian capital. You’ve already explored the traditional sights of the Old Town in addition to the nearby sights on the modern side of the river. Today, you’re going to be having a more in-depth look at local culture and history, so we hope the overview yesterday has prepared you well!

3 Days in Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary: Central Market

Start with a light breakfast because we recommend joining a foodie tour on your second day in Ljubljana. Slovenian cuisine has influenced and been influenced by the cuisines of its neighbors, and local food is a unique blend of Italian, Austrian, Hungarian, and Balkan culinary traditions. Slovenia is fast becoming a foodie destination , and the country has 58 restaurants in the Michelin Guide and 10 Michelin-starred restaurants (most of them in Ljubljana).

It’s an exciting time to be eating your way around Ljubljana, as chefs prepare local delicacies using fresh ingredients brought in from the nearby countryside. There are several different tours available, many of which cater to vegetarian and vegan travelers too.

3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Kranjska Klobasa

You’ll typically get the chance to try Slovenian favorites, including the famous Kranjska Klobasa (a type of local sausage), local cold cuts of ham and delightful cheeses, and specialties like Idrijski žlikrofi, a delectable dumpling dish.

Your food tour will take you around Ljubljana’s Central Market (you walked past it yesterday), where you’ll learn more about the stallholders, the produce, and the culinary traditions making a comeback in Slovenia today. If you decide not to join a food tour, then we recommend visiting the Central Market for lunch on Day 2 anyway, so you can try local cheese, wine, and meats in a lively local setting.

If a food tour isn’t your thing, then we suggest spending the morning on either a communist walking tour, a street art tour, or perhaps an architectural tour (exploring the legacy of Jože Plečnik) instead, so you can delve a little deeper into a topic you enjoy while you’re in Ljubljana.

Get a Taste of Slovenian Cuisine

Museum Hopping around Tivoli Park

Weekend in Ljubljana 3 Days Itinerary: Tivoli Park

Your afternoon is now dedicated to museums, of which there are many to choose from. We suggest strolling over to Tivoli Park, where you’ll find a beautiful green space that’s also home to some excellent cultural and historic institutions. If you’re traveling with kids (or if you’re just a big kid at heart!), then on the way, you can stop off at the House of Illusions for a little optical trickery before heading into the Slovenian School Museum .

House of Illusions Entrance Ticket

Next up is the nearby National Museum of Slovenia , which is one of the best places to visit in the city if you’re a big history fan. This excellent museum is the oldest museum in Slovenia, and it contains artifacts and archaeology that present you with a detailed overview of the nation’s development from prehistory to the present. The same grand public building by Tivoli Park also hosts the Slovenian Museum of Natural History , where you can see the reconstructed skeletons of mammoths and dinosaurs.

Weekend in Ljubljana: National Museum of Slovenia

Right on the edge of Tivoli Park, you’ll find the National Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art . The National Gallery is home to an extensive collection of artwork, the oldest of which date back to the 12th century.

The Museum of Modern Art focuses on contemporary artists, with a collection that mostly spans the 20th century. Take a walk through Tivoli Park next, and if you have time, visit the National Museum of Contemporary History (exploring modern Slovenian history and culture), which is also nearby.

Ljubljana 3 Day Itinerary Weekend Guide: Museum of Modern Art

Head back to your hotel to freshen up, then prepare yourself for an evening of eating and drinking in Slovenia’s best restaurants. If you enjoy your food with a side of history, then we recommend booking a table at Gostilna Sokol in the Old Town.

This excellent restaurant dates back to 1870, and few other eateries serve such traditional dishes as this. For fine dining, Strelec Restaurant offers 9-course tasting menus in a romantic setting, while TaBar serves Slovenian-inspired tapas dishes from Michelin-quality chefs.

Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary – Day 3

Your 3-day Ljubljana itinerary continues with a relaxed morning in the city. Take a walk around Tivoli Park, enjoy a short boat ride along the Ljubljanica River (if you purchased a Ljubljana City Card, a boat ride is included!), or visit one of the museums you didn’t have time to fit in on Day 2.

Ljubljana Skyscraper

In the late morning, make your way to the Ljubljana Skyscraper , where you’ll have superb views over the city. The Ljubljana Skyscraper is one of the city’s most unusual buildings. Way ahead of its time, the skyscraper was built in 1933 and opened to great fanfare, being the tallest building in the Balkans at the time.

It’s some 70 meters tall, and although it’s no longer the tallest building in the capital, it still holds a curious place in the hearts of locals (there’s even a famous pop song about the skyscraper!) and on the city’s skyline.

Nebotičnik Cafe

Ljubljana 3 Day Itinerary Weekend Guide: Neboticnik Cafe

Take in the views from the top deck, and hang around for lunch at the Nebotičnik Café, where you’ll enjoy supreme panoramas while you eat. As with everywhere in Ljubljana, there’s also a nightclub in the Ljubljana Skyscraper, although you’ve got much more to pack in on Day 3 before that opens much later.

Metelkova District

Your final afternoon takes you to one of Ljubljana’s most interesting districts. Your next stop is the rather unusual Metelkova District, which you’ll find a half-hour walk north of the Old Town. Metelkova is now known as Ljubljana’s quirky artistic district, but until the fall of communism in 1993, it was infamously better known for its army barracks and political prisons.

Metelkova Art Center

The area was abandoned following the withdrawal of the Yugoslav Army, and it was taken over by squatters in the 1990s. They eventually turned it into an “autonomous” social and cultural center, and today, the once derelict buildings are now an artistic hub focused around the Metelkova Art Center . There’s graffiti, street art, and unusual art installations all around the center, while you can also visit the nearby Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova for a more official look at the modern art scene in Ljubljana.

Hostel Celica

You’ll also want to visit Hostel Celica . Located in Metelkova, Hostel Celica was the site of Ljubljana’s former political prison. The old prison cells have been transformed into artistic spaces by former prisoners, where you can even spend the night if there’s availability. You can take a guided tour of the hostel to see how it once functioned as a prison and to hear the stories of the prisoners that were kept behind bars here.

That should bring you into the late afternoon, but don’t leave Metelkova just yet because the district is also Ljubljana’s alternative nightlife center. There’s a packed events schedule throughout the year, and early evening sees the old barracks turned over to live music and creative arts events. By late evening, the live music is replaced by DJs, and the district hosts underground raves and late-night parties.

Spend the Night at Hostel Celica

If that’s not your scene, then we recommend popping into the bar at Hostel Celica for a craft beer, enjoying a bit of live music, then heading back to the city for dinner. You’ve got a few options for your last dinner in Ljubljana.

Sushimama serves up Asian-fusion food made with local Slovenian ingredients, B-Restaurant offers affordable fine dining, and Gostlina AS prepares delicious local food in a traditional setting (all are recommended by the Michelin guide).

If you’ve still got the energy, then you can close your weekend trip to Ljubljana with a last aperitif in the Old Town bars. If you’re still going strong, then maybe you’ll even be tempted by a late night back in Metelkova or a session at the castle or skyscraper nightclubs!

What to do if you have more than 3 days in Ljubljana

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 3 days in Ljubljana, then you’re in for a treat. Not only are there lots more things to do in the city, but the capital is well connected to many more nearby destinations, including the world-famous Lake Bled.

3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Lake Bled

Located less than a one-hour drive away from Ljubljana, Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. This alpine lake is startlingly colorful, with glacial waters surrounded by the tall peaks of the Julian Alps. You can spend the day hiking around the lakeside (it’s around six kilometers in circumference), delving into history at Bled Castle, or rowing across to the distinctive church on the island. End the day trip with a slice of creamy Bled Cake!

Take a Trip to Lake Bled

Šmarna Gora

Ljubljana 3 Day Itinerary Weekend Guide: Smarna Gora

Just outside the city, you’ll find Šmarna Gora, a 664-meter-high hilltop that towers over the countryside. At the summit, you’ll find a dramatic church and a lovely cafe where you can refuel after your walk. A network of hiking trails leads from Ljubljana through the hills to the top of Šmarna Gora and other adjacent peaks, making for an active outing from the city.

Go Hiking in Šmarna Gora

3 Days in Ljubljana Weekend Itinerary: Maribor

The city of Maribor is an hour and a half from Ljubljana by car. Located on the Drava River in the northeast, this is Slovenia’s second-largest city. Maribor is beautiful, and you can spend the day strolling through old streets and enjoying the local wines (this is a famous wine-growing region). Visit the local museum and castle to learn more about the history before heading back to Ljubljana.

Discover the Inviting City of Maribor

Lake Bohinj

It’s not nearly as famous as Lake Bled, but make an effort to visit Lake Bohinj (it’s a one hour and 20-minute drive from Ljubljana), and you’ll be awed by alpine scenery. There’s just a fraction of the crowds here, and you’ll quickly fall in love with its beautiful scenery and epic hiking trails.

See Lake Bohinj

Postojna Cave

A 50-minute drive into the countryside brings you to Postojna Cave Park , one of Slovenia’s greatest natural attractions. Reaching a length of 24 kilometers, Slovenia’s second-longest cave system is the perfect place for a subterranean day trip. Learn about the natural karst caves common here, then visit Predjama Castle to see the world’s largest “cave castle.”

Secure a Postojna Cave Ticket

We hope you enjoy your weekend trip to Ljubljana! Should we add something else to our 3-day Ljubljana itinerary? Let us know in the comments.

Planning a trip to Slovenia? Check out our favorite travel guides and resources!

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About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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1 thought on “3 days in ljubljana: the perfect weekend itinerary”.

My sister and I also had an exciting trip to Ljubljana. However, we rented a car because it was very hot. It is one of the best countries in Europe for driving including; a place where you can freely drive and explore all the mountain roads and amazing architectural styles.

Ljubljana Travel Guide

A small European capital, Ljubljana has a long history dating back to the Roman Era, but today it has carved itself as a hub of diversity and creative culture with some of Europe’s finest food and cafés, museums dedicated to graphic arts, and unique galleries. An early 21st-century redevelopment of the Ljubljana city center and riverside has defined new public spaces which have further fostered the charming creativity of the locals. —Adam Groffman

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Ljubljana & Lake Bled - Small Group Tour from Koper

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Visit the charming Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, and Bled, a popular tourist destination, which is considered one of the most beautiful alpine resorts also known as the Alpine pearl.

Ticket Information

Mobile or paper ticket accepted
One per booking

What's Included

Driver/guide
Hotel/port pickup and drop-off

What's not Included

Food and drinks
Pletna boat ride

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cruise Passengers must advise supplier as soon as possible: ship name, arrival time and departure time,
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10 Travel ‘Dupe’ Destinations That Will Save You Money on Your Next Trip

Posted: December 12, 2023 | Last updated: December 12, 2023

Amid high inflation, the trend of searching for "dupes" -- duplicates of higher-end items -- has risen in popularity. This extends to everything from beauty products to designer goods to even vacation destinations . "Dupe" destinations can save travelers big money versus vacationing in a hotspot.

See: 8 Tips to Fly Business Class for the Price of Economy Be Aware: Don't Buy Airline Tickets at This Time of Day

"In 2024, Americans are more likely to choose hidden-gem destinations over tried-and-true tourist hotspots for their vacations," Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands, told CNBC .

If you're planning ahead for travel in the new year, consider one of these travel "dupe" destinations to save serious cash .

<p>Lombok is an island in Indonesia for the adventurous. Trek to a waterfall in the midst of a jungle, go snorkeling or diving, or climb Mount Rinjani, an active volcano. When you’re done with your adventures, stop at Air Kalak Hot Springs to enjoy its medicinal properties.</p> <p>“For those looking for somewhere cheap, well, Lombok offers a broad choice of just about anything,” said James Cutajar, who runs <a href="https://thetraveldeck.com/">The Travel Deck</a>, a website focusing on Southeast Asia. “Hotels start at around $30 a night and food is just as affordable. For instance, fresh grilled fish including sides won’t set you back more than $10.”</p> <div class="listicle--slide"> <div class="listicle--slide--content"> <p><em><strong>Helpful: <a href="https://www.gobankingrates.com/saving-money/travel/top-10-best-travel-hacks-to-save-most-money/?utm_campaign=1145855&utm_source=msn.com&utm_content=9&utm_medium=rss">The Top 10 Best Travel Hacks To Save the Most Money</a></strong></em></p> </div> </div>

Instead of Bali, Indonesia, Visit Lombok, Indonesia

Travelers looking for beautiful beaches and stunning natural surroundings have flocked to Bali -- but this destination can get very expensive.

"Most people travel to Bali when visiting Indonesia [at] an average of $1,000 for a week's trip," said Alexandra Dubakova, travel expert and head of marketing at FreeTour.com . "Lombok is a great alternative that offers the same vibrant culture, attractive beaches and hiking trails, and [it] costs around $600 for a week's visit."

More: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024 I'm a Luxury Travel Agent: 10 Destinations My Wealthy Clients Are Booking for 2024

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Instead of New York, Visit Montreal

Those looking for a city destination should skip NYC and head farther north.

"Visiting New York City comes with a hefty price -- $2,500 for a week's trip," Dubakova said. "Montreal offers a rich history, a great food scene and vibrant city life for almost half the price -- $1,500."

Check Out: 14 Affordable Christmas Getaways Under $100 a Day

Instead of Paris, Visit Lisbon, Portugal

When you think of romantic European destinations, Paris is likely top of mind -- but it's far from the only option.

"Paris, the City of Love, is a great choice but [it's] expensive," Dubakova said. "It costs around $2,000 to visit Pairs for a week, [while] Lisbon costs $1,200 and offers the same romantic aura and architectural beauty."

<p>Zanzibar City, also known as Stone Town, is recognized for its many buildings built from coral stone. This city is also a great inexpensive travel option for those planning a last-minute vacation.</p> <p>"Since almost everything is close by in the city, you'll be able to save money by avoiding using taxis or public transportation," said Jenny Ly, founder of Go Wanderly, a travel website that creates travel guides for locations around the world. </p> <p>Zanzibar's location alongside the Indian Ocean allows its guests to enjoy fresh fish, and they can also enjoy affordable lodging. You can find a hotel room in Zanzibar for under $200 per night, according to Trip Advisor, but guests can also consider staying at the many newly developed and affordable hostels across the island. </p>

Instead of Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Visit Zanzibar, Tanzania

Planning a honeymoon for 2024? Consider Zanzibar for an affordable destination.

"Bora Bora is renowned for its luxurious overwater bungalows and stunning blue waters," said Jim Campbell, CEO of Honeymoons.com . "Zanzibar offers a similar paradise with beautiful beaches, rich cultural history and exotic wildlife. The cost of a trip to Zanzibar can be up to 50% less than a trip to Bora Bora, making it an excellent choice for a romantic and adventurous honeymoon."

Instead of Venice, Italy, Visit Ljubljana, Slovenia

Avoid the crowds -- and the hefty price tags -- by opting for Ljubljana over Venice.

"Venice is famous for its canals, historic architecture and romantic ambiance. Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, offers a similar charm with its picturesque waterways, vibrant cultural scene and less crowded streets," Campbell said. "Traveling to Ljubljana instead of Venice can save you about 30-40% on accommodation and dining."

<p>"While Palawan is a little more expensive than other islands in the Philippines, you can still have an amazing holiday on this island for only $50 per day," said Lena Mrowka, the travel blogger behind <a href="https://notanotherbackpacker.com/en/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Not Another Backpacker</a>.</p> <p>"This cost includes activities such as island hopping tours and transport to the most beautiful beaches on the island."</p> <p><strong><em>Take Our Poll: <a href="https://www.gobankingrates.com/saving-money/home/take-our-poll-are-you-struggling-to-keep-up-with-your-utility-bills/?utm_campaign=1189272&utm_source=msn.com&utm_content=5&utm_medium=rss">Are You Struggling To Keep Up With Your Utility Bills?</a></em></strong></p>

Instead of The Maldives, Visit Palawan, Philippines

If an island getaway is calling your name, consider booking a trip to Palawan.

"The Maldives is known for its stunning islands and luxury resorts. Palawan provides a similar tropical paradise with breathtaking lagoons, rich marine life and more affordable accommodation options," Campbell said. "Choosing Palawan over the Maldives can result in savings of about 40-50%."

Good To Know: 9 American Travel Brands to Stay Away From

<p>Jordan Morgan and his wife are expats who have been living abroad for eight years and specialize in personalized travel recommendations through their company, <a href="https://www.onarrival.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">On Arrival</a>. For an upcoming trip to Puglia, Italy, they took their own advice. </p> <p>"We are staying in a private villa, built in a traditional trullo," he said. "The villa is on its own private land with private swimming pool and nestled in an olive grove. It cost us just $293 per night -- so a weekly rate would be around $2,000 for lodging. This is a two-bedroom villa that could comfortably sleep four." </p>

Instead of Santorini, Greece, Visit Puglia, Italy

Puglia is one Italian destination that isn't yet overrun by tourists, so you can still book an affordable trip here. Conversely, Santorini has become increasingly pricey.

"Santorini is famous for its iconic white buildings and beautiful sunsets. Puglia offers a comparable Mediterranean charm with its beautiful coastlines, historic villages and delicious cuisine," Campbell said. "A [vacation] in Puglia can be up to 35% cheaper than one in Santorini."

Instead of Dubrovnik, Croatia, Visit Cavtat, Croatia

If Croatia is on your travel list, consider booking a trip to Cavtat over the more popular Dubrovnik.

"Though not as publicized as Dubrovnik, Cavtat is an excellent alternative to this now overpriced Croatian destination," said Danielle Rudic, director of marketing at Travelive , a luxury destination management company. "You can find both four- and five-star properties, great traditional taverns [and a] more traditional feel, and you will not have to elbow through rivers of tourists holding a selfie-stick as you would in Dubrovnik."

Hotels in Cavtat are $150 to $300 cheaper per night, and Dubrovnik is just a 20-minute drive away. "This price difference is also noticeable in restaurants and bars," Rudic said. "On average, you can expect to pay 30% less."

Instead of Kyoto, Japan, Visit Hoi An, Vietnam

Kyoto is a popular Asian destination, but you'll find much better prices elsewhere.

"Kyoto is famous for its historic temples, gardens and traditional teahouses. However, a trip here can be quite costly, with hotels averaging $120 per night and meals around $30 per person," said Augustinas Milaknis, head of PR at Ratepunk , a travel booking app.

"Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam, is a delightful alternative with its well-preserved Ancient Town, lantern-lit streets and rich history," he said. "Accommodations in Hoi An can be as low as $50 per night, and a delicious meal can cost around $15 per person."

Instead of Napa, California, Visit Sonoma, California

Even though these two wine country destinations are located close by, the prices can be worlds apart.

"They're comparable due to them literally being right next door to each other and offering many of the same amenities," said Jared Benoff, founder of Vacationeeze , a family-owned travel agency.

"You have to look a little closer to see some key differences between the two charming regions," he said. "For example, the Bardessono in Yountville, Napa will be approximately $1,500 per night while the Madrona, recently named one of the best in the world by Travel + Leisure, will be about $690 per night. People visiting Sonoma will also find generally more affordable wine-tasting fees and dining options."

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ŽIVAHNA. ŽIVA. #VISITLJUBLJANA

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Trajnost v Ljubljani
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Naročite se na Pisma iz Ljubljane, mesečnik Turizma LJ

Dobrodošli v Ljubljani, glavnem mestu Slovencev, ki se v njej srečujejo, študirajo, sklepajo posle ali živijo. Lahko bi rekli, da je kot kameleon - vedno pravšnje barve za vsako razpoloženje. Mesto po meri človeka, svetovljanska za delo, hkrati pa zelena in prijetna za oddih. 50.000 študentov ji daje mladosten utrip, bogata ponudba kulturnih in športnih dogodkov ter množice doživetij pa je zagotovilo, da vam v mestu preprosto ne more biti dolgčas.

Prepustite se šarmu slovenske prestolnice, ki je:

zanimiva mešanica različnih kulturnih vplivov
ena najbolj vročih evropskih kulinaričnih destinacij
ena izmed vodilnih svetovnih destinacij trajnostnega življenjskega sloga
mesto z zeleno dušo
odlična lokacija za kongrese in konference
žarišče nepozabnih dogodkov in prizorišč
izvrstna za ljubitelje aktivnosti na prostem, saj ponuja slikovite parke, obrežne sprehajalne poti ob rekah in številne rekreacijske dejavnosti
polna pestre zgodovine in arhitekture, z očarljivimi ulicami, veličastnim gradom in modernimi arhitekturnimi čudeži, ki čakajo na raziskovanje

Izpostavljeno

Dve roki, ki drzita dve veliki ledeni kocki nad veliko kocko ledu

MMM zgodbe: O ledu in minljivosti

Polzenje kaplje po stranici orošenega kozarca, v katerem pritajeno potrkava ledena kocka, in kapljevina ob njem, ki vabi, da na hladen marmor v nežne obrise prelijemo svoje najbolj vroče želje in izmuzljive sanje o prihodnosti, podnetita premislek o minljivosti, o neizprosnosti časa, o lastni neznatnosti pred obličjem brezčasnosti.

Tradicionalno čiščenje Ljubljanice

Tradicionalno čiščenje Ljubljanice vsako leto zaključi spomladansko akcijo čiščenja Za Lepšo Ljubljano.

Odprta kuhna

Kulinarična tržnica v središču mesta, ki vsak sončni petek med marcem in novembrom med svoje stojnice privablja gurmane in kulinarične (avan)turiste.

Z novo moderno in udobno šestsedežnico na Veliko Planino

Velika Planina je stopila v novo obdobje dostopnosti z uvedbo nove šestsedežnice Šimnovec.

Velike skulpture ptic, pobarvane v rdečo barvo, na lesenih deskah med lesenima zidovoma – delo belgijskega umetnika Williama Sweetlovea, ki je na ogled v Arboretumu Volčji Potok (16. marec–22. september 2024)

Dobre novice! na Krakovskem nasipu vabijo v Arboretum Volčji Potok in Kamnik

V Galeriji na prostem na Krakovskem nasipu bodo v torek, 19. marca, odprli fotografije del priznanega belgijskega umetnika Williama Sweetlova in več kot dvajsetih umetnikov iz šestih držav, ki so na ogled v Arboretumu Volčji Potok in na različnih lokacijah v Kamniku – pod okriljem projekta Dobre novice! Razstava bo tako obenem tudi povabilo na ogled razstav v največjem botaničnem parku v Sloveniji in Kamniku.

Kolesarski užitki na Barju in v njegovem zaledju

Pomlad večini ljubiteljskih kolesarjev prinese tudi vnovično veselje na kolesu. Zato tokratni namig za izlet vabi na kolesarske izlete iz brošure »Ljubljansko barje z zaledjem – Kolesarski užitki na pragu prestolnice«, ki jo je pred kratkim izdal LAS Barje z zaledjem. V njej je predstavljenih in opisanih devet izletov na območju zahodnega Barja, od pretežno ravninskih do takšnih, ki povedejo po klancih na razgledna pobočja.

Meščani priporočajo

Ko rečemo: "Gremo na kavo!" to ne pomeni, da gremo popiti črn grenak kofeinski napitek, katerega izvor je v Etiopiji, vendar je uspešno (celo bolj kot Britanci) koloniziral cel svet. Ne. S tem želimo reči: "Pojdimo se nekam usesti za več ur in naročiti neko (brezalkoholno) pijačo."

Katarina je antropologinja, ki rada raziskuje druge kulture in življenjske sloge. Čeprav Ljubljana ni njeno najljubše mesto na svetu, pa je vzljubila njegove mnoge odlične kavarne ter jih zbrala v članku

Ljubljana in regija v slikah

Pogled na mestne strehe. Nad njimi zelen hrib z gradom.

Praznično okrašeno nabrežje. V ozadju okrašen grad na hribu.

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10 Best Things to Do in Ljubljana
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How to Spend One Day in Ljubljana
Explore Ljubljana: the top things to do, where to stay and what to eat
Best Things to See in the Friendly City of Ljubljana, Slovenia

COMMENTS

Visit Ljubljana
Saturday. 22°C. Sunday. 25°C. Welcome to Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenians, where people gather, study, do business, or live. One could say it's like a chameleon - always the right colour for every mood. A city tailored to human needs, cosmopolitan for work, yet green and pleasant for relaxation. With 50,000 students, it has a ...
Sights and activities & Visit Ljubljana
Discover the best sights of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, with this guide. Learn about the history, culture and architecture of the city and its landmarks, such as the castle, the dragon bridge, the central market and more.
Ljubljana travel
Ljubljana. Slovenia's capital and largest city is one of Europe's greenest and most liveable capitals; it was the European Commission's Green Capital of Europe in 2016. Car traffic is restricted in the centre, leaving the leafy banks of the emerald-green Ljubljanica River, which flows through the city's heart, free for pedestrians and cyclists.
14 Best Things to Do in Ljubljana
These tropical vacation spots boast affordable accommodations, incredible scenery and more. Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023. Ranking of the top 14 things to do in Ljubljana ...
Welcome to Ljubljana, the small but beautiful capital of Slovenia
Built in the 15th century, the Ljubljana Castle stands on top of a 375-metre-high hill above the historic old centre of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. It is Ljubljana's main tourist attraction where various cultural, historic and entertaining events take place regularly throughout the year.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Ljubljana
2023. 2. Union Experience. 1,029. Breweries. Take a journey through Union Experience and discover the rich history of the Pivovarna Union brewery. Enjoy the vibe of the famous Pub Union and revel in the exquisite selection of Ljubljana's most beloved beer. Inside the Union Experience is exclusive gift shop.
25 Best Things to Do in Ljubljana (Slovenia)
Let's explore the best things to do in Ljubljana: 1. Prešeren Square. Source: Shutterstock. Preseren Square. Right by the Ljubljanica, Prešeren Square is the place where the city meets up and celebrate. If there's an event going on in Ljubljana there's a good chance it will happen in this space.
Must-see attractions Ljubljana, Slovenia
Museum of Architecture & Design. Ljubljana. This museum, housed in the stunningly preserved 16th-century Fužine Castle (worth the visit alone) about 5.5km east of the centre, preserves some 150,000….
The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary
Located in Central Europe within easy travelling distance from cities like Zagreb, Venice, Vienna or Salzburg, the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana has fast become one of the hottest places to visit in all of Europe.Charmed by the city's small size, beautiful architecture, and pedestrianised Old Town, planning a Ljubljana itinerary has never been more popular.
A First Timer's Guide to Visiting Ljubljana, Slovenia
Best Time to Visit Ljubljana. The best time to visit Ljubljana, Slovenia is during the months of April, May, September, and October. These months of spring and autumn offer comfortable weather and lower accommodation prices. We visited in July and it was too hot and too crowded to enjoy the city.
Ljubljana Travel Guide
Ljubljana's main point of reference is Slovenska cesta, a busy north-south thoroughfare that slices the city down the middle.Most of the sights are within easy walking distance of here, with the Old Town straddling the River Ljubljanica to the south and east and the nineteenth-century quarter situated to the west, where the principal museums and galleries are.
What to Do in Ljubljana: 15 Highlights of the City
Don't be fooled by the fact that Ljubljana is one of Europe's smallest capitals because the Slovenian city is packed full of exciting things to do and sights to see!. Formerly part of Yugoslavia, much has changed in Ljubljana since the communist regime fell and Slovenia declared independence in 1991. Yes, you'll find the socialist-style concrete tower blocks, and admittedly, one of the ...
8 reasons you must visit Ljubljana, Slovenia
5: It's a capital full of culture. Ljubljana National Gallery (Slovenian Tourist Board) Ljubljana is a deeply cultural city where history is revered and art hailed. The grand National Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art are essential stops on any visit. I also thoroughly recommend delving into the City Museum where you can come face to face ...
LJUBLJANA: 25 Best Things to Do & Places to Visit
Lake Bled. Located northwest of Ljubljana, Lake Bled is a famous tourist destination boasting an island that nestles ancient buildings; the most prominent is the 17th-century Church of the Assumption. Bled Castle, located on the northern portion of the lake, is visible from the island. Postojna Cave.
12 Top Ljubljana Things to Do
Try the Bograč goulash, sausages or the chicken pate with a fig jam. It is conveniently located in the town centre. Klobasarna - for a quick and easy meal, try Klobasarna. It is a stop on food tours in Ljubljana - we saw a couple food tour groups come by while we were there.
Things to Do in Ljubljana
Visit Ljubljana Charm in the Old Town. Like any visitor, the Old Town was top of the list to explore. Like most former medieval strongholds, it's compact yet full of a long, historical timeline of architectural styles and charms. In Ljubljana, this means endless cobblestone conveyor belts of streets that present numerous bridges, intricate ...
3 Days in Ljubljana: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary
Mighty dragons guard historic bridges, a medieval castle towers above red-roofed townhouses, and old Roman ruins lie underfoot. Welcome to Ljubljana, one of Europe's most fascinating capital cities. Located along the unusually green waters of the Ljubljanica River, Slovenia's capital and largest city is always surprising. Founded by Roman soldiers over 2,000 years ago, Ljubljana
Ljubljana Travel Guide
Ljubljana Travel Guide. Photograph by kasto80, Getty Images. Why It's Worth It. A small European capital, Ljubljana has a long history dating back to the Roman Era, but today it has carved itself ...
Visit Ljubljana
See All Ljubljana Travel Tips >> see the best of Ljubljana Day 1 See Full Itinerary days attractions See Full Itinerary >> Tours & Sightseeing See All Tours & Sightseeing in Ljubljana >> Monthly High-Low Temperatures (F ° C° F° C°) Jan. 39° 24° Feb. 41° 27° Mar. 54° 32° ...
Tours and trips
3. 4. Online booking of guided tours of Ljubljana, day trips to destinations around Slovenia and a great choice of organized activities.
Ljubljana & Lake Bled
Visit the charming Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, and Bled, a popular tourist destination, which is considered one of the most beautiful alpine resorts also known as the Alpine pearl. Itinerary. Additional Info. Ticket Information. Mobile or paper ticket accepted; One per booking; What's Included ...
10 Travel 'Dupe' Destinations That Will Save You Money on ...
Instead of Venice, Italy, Visit Ljubljana, Slovenia Avoid the crowds -- and the hefty price tags -- by opting for Ljubljana over Venice. "Venice is famous for its canals, historic architecture and ...
Visit Ljubljana
ena najbolj vročih evropskih kulinaričnih destinacij. ena izmed vodilnih svetovnih destinacij trajnostnega življenjskega sloga. mesto z zeleno dušo. odlična lokacija za kongrese in konference. žarišče nepozabnih dogodkov in prizorišč. izvrstna za ljubitelje aktivnosti na prostem, saj ponuja slikovite parke, obrežne sprehajalne poti ...

Ljubljana Travel Guide

14 Best Things To Do in Ljubljana

Ljubljana Old Town (Staro mesto) Ljubljana Old Town (Staro mesto) free

Ljubljanica Ljubljanica free

Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski grad) Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski grad) free

Popular Tours

Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) free

Prešeren Square (Prešernov trg) Prešeren Square (Prešernov trg) free

Lake Bled Lake Bled free

Ljubljana Cathedral (Ljubljanska stolnica) Ljubljana Cathedral (Ljubljanska stolnica) free

Tivoli Park Tivoli Park free

Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most) Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most) free

Metelkova mesto Metelkova mesto free

Museum of Illusions Ljubljana (Muzej iluzij Ljubljana) Museum of Illusions Ljubljana (Muzej iluzij Ljubljana)

Butchers' Bridge (Mesarski most) Butchers' Bridge (Mesarski most) free

Pub Crawl Ljubljana Pub Crawl Ljubljana

Top Ljubljana Foods Top Ljubljana Foods

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25 Best Things to Do in Ljubljana (Slovenia)

1. Prešeren Square

2. Triple Bridge

3. Ljubljana Castle

4. Dragon Bridge

5. Tivoli Park

6. Ljubljana Cathedral

7. Central Market

8. Franciscan Church of the Annunciation

9. National Gallery of Slovenia

10. Metelkova Mesto

11. National Museum of Slovenia

12. Republic Square

13. National Museum of Contemporary History

14. Congress Square

15. Town Hall

16. Robba Fountain

17. Museum of Illusions

18. The Skyscraper (Nebotičnik)

19. Art Nouveau Architecture

20. Plečnik House

21. Ljubljanica River Trip

22. Ljubljana Zoo

23. Hire a Bike

24. Šmarna Gora

25. Eat Like a Local

25 Best Things to Do in Ljubljana (Slovenia):

Must-see attractions in Ljubljana

More destinations you need to see

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary

How Many Days in Ljubljana?

Getting To and Around Ljubljana

2 or 3 Days Ljubljana Itinerary

Day 1 – Old Town Highlights

Central Market

Pre š eren Square

Triple Bridge

Dragon Bridge

Ljubljana Cathedral

City Museum of Ljubljana

Ljubljana Castle

Day 2 – Beyond the Old Town

Tivoli Park

Museum of Modern Art

Metelkova City