Ljubljana

Ljubljana is the charming capital of Slovenia, located in the heart of the country and along the banks of the Ljubljanica River. Though relatively small for a European capital, it is known for its relaxed atmosphere, green spaces, and vibrant cultural life. The city blends Baroque, Art Nouveau, and modern architecture, with much of its unique look shaped by the famed Slovene architect Joze Plecnik. At the city’s centre is the picturesque Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill and offering panoramic views, while the lively Preseren Square, Triple Bridge, and Central Market create a walkable and engaging downtown experience.

Ljubljana is also a leader in environmental sustainability, it has been recognised as one of Europe’s greenest capitals and won the European Green Capital Award in 2016. The city is pedestrian-friendly, with much of its centre car-free, and offers a mix of cozy cafes, cultural events, museums, and galleries. With its blend of old-world charm and modern sensibility, Ljubljana stands out as an appealing destination and a symbol of Slovenia’s balance between tradition and innovation.

The focal point is the lovely Preseren Square with the statue of poet and Slovenian favourite son France Preseren. To the south of the square is the ornate triple bridge leading to the old town which is barely a kilometre long flowing alongside the river. There are a number of bridges, especially Cobblers Bridge, across the river to another part of the old town where you’ll find a number of nice hotels, bars and restaurants.

If you take a left after crossing the triple bridge you will find the Central Market and beyond that Dragon Bridge which has become the unofficial symbol of Slovenia. Before you reach these two places make sure you check out the stunning St Nicolas Cathedral, and don’t forget to walk around the outside to see the huge bronze doors and statues.

Finally, don’t forget to visit Ljubljana Castle. You can either walk up the steep slopes via various paths or take the castle funicular from the terminus which is south of the Central Market. Most of the castle, which sits atop the 375m hill and dates from the 16th century, is an interesting place to spend an afternoon. There are lots of spots to explore such as the Watchtower, the Chapel of St George, the Slovenian History Exhibition, and our favourite the Museum of Puppetry. You can also book the Time Machine tour where you will be escorted by a costumed guide who will inform and entertain you with stories about the castle. My favourite was about the Gunpowder Room’s doors flying 4kms away after being hit by a lightning strike.

You won’t go hungry in Ljubljana that’s for sure. From the haute cuisine of Strelec Restaurant (Ljubljana Castle) to the open air food fair of the Open Kitchen (Friday evenings). We ate at the lovely little traditional Julija restaurant on Stari Trg, great food, reasonably priced. And don’t forget to go to Vinoteka Movia, the wine bar belonging to Movia winery which we visited in the Brda wine region.

We stayed at the Eurostars uHotel which was only 250m from Preseren Square, very convenient though not as nice as we expected, it looks like it has had a bit of a facelift since our stay. If you can, try to stay next door at sister hotel Grand Hotel Union, we were lucky enough to be able to enjoy dining in their art nouveau breakfast room, very special!

When in Ljubljana consider purchasing the Ljubljana Card, valid for either 24 (€41), 48 (€49), or 72 (€54) hours, this handy card includes entry to over 30 attractions, including a guided city tour, a cruise on the Ljubljana Tourist Boat, entry to Ljubljana Zoo, a return funicular ride to the castle, a day pass to Snovik Thermal Spa, free travel on city buses, the list goes on and on. Suffice to say this is probably one of the best deals you will find in any city anywhere!

If that isn’t enough then GetYourGuide and Viator offer a variety of experiences in and around Ljubljana including food & wine tours and walking tours, as well as day trips to Lake Bled, Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. See Tripadvisor for all of the above and including restaurant, hotel, flights and rental cars. Check out Lonely Planet for guidebooks.

And finally for the adventurous among you check out RAW Travel for simply the best guided or self-guided multiple day hiking tours.