In the "Where to...?" sections of this guide, you won't find only the usual must-see of Ljubljana. Those can be also found at the top of travel recommendation sites. I will give you more.
Why?
Because this guide was written by someone, who has spent most of his life in this town. I want to show you less touristy, and more authentic places. This guide is written by a local, for travelers who want a local experience.
These places will give you a taste of Ljubljana, that you won't easily forget. And why should you? You may fall in love with this place and keep returning.
In this guide, you will find tips on the following:
• Things to see and do 👀
• Traveling to and from Ljubljana ✈️
• Where to eat 🍽
• Best places to grab some drinks 🍺
• Places to grab a cup of coffee/tea ☕
• Accommodations to sleep 🛌
💸 FREE for 2024!! If you found this guide valuable, you can always leave a tip or a comment (at the bottom of the guide).
Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) is a unique architectural gem in the heart of Ljubljana. Designed by the famous Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, it consists of three bridges connecting the historical, medieval town on one bank with the modern city on the other.
Dragon's Bridge (Zmajski most) is one of Ljubljana’s most iconic landmarks. Guarded by four majestic dragon statues, it showcases stunning Secessionist architecture and symbolizes strength and courage.
Ljubljana Castle, perched atop Castle Hill, offers panoramic views of the city. This medieval fortress has a rich history and now houses a museum, cultural events, and a funicular railway that provides easy access.
Openning hours: every day 9.00 - 19.00 (in summer 22.00)
Furnicular price: 6.00€; it departs every 10 minutes
The Robba Fountain also known as the Fountain of the Three Carniolan Rivers is the fountain that stands in front of Ljubljana Town Hall. It is one of the city's most recognizable symbols. But the one on the square is just a replica. The original can be found in Slovenian National Gallery along with other art masterpieces.
The biggest library in the country is also one of the greatest works of Jože Plečnik. Main sights are The Great Stairway (free to visit Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm) & The Main Reading Room (5.00€ entrance fee; visits allowed only on Sat 2.30pm - 6pm)
Ljubljana's biggest park lies near the city center. It allows you to get away from bustling city life to peaceful nature. Explore many historical houses hidden in the park or take a short hike to neighboring Roznik hill with a traditional restaurant at the top.
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Discovering Ljubljana's hidden treasures is just the beginning. Dive deeper into the city's secrets with my extended guide (⬇️check the link at the bottom), where you'll uncover even more off-the-beaten-path gems that locals cherish.
How to arrive?
By airplane
Ljubljana is served by Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport. It is well connected with main European airport hubs, which allows you to arrive in the city from all over the world.
"Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (Slovene: Letališče Jožeta Pučnika Ljubljana), is the international airport serving Ljubljana and the largest airport in Slovenia. It is located near Brnik, 24 km (15 mi) northwest of Ljubljana."
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From the airport to the city center
For a fast and reliable connection between the airport and the city center, the best option is to choose a shuttle service. There are different companies offering services on-site, but the best option is to book in advance.
Ljubljana main railway station offers a lot of international train connections. With changes in bigger railway hubs, you can reach all European hubs. Take note that Ljubljana railway station is also a great starting point for all your day trips around Slovenia.
"The Ljubljana railway station (Slovene: Železniška postaja Ljubljana) is the principal railway station in Ljubljana. It is the main railway station in the country and serves as a hub for both domestic and international trains."
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By bus
Next to the railway station, you can find Ljubljana main bus station. Same as the railway station there you will find a lot of connections to the main cities in the neighboring countries and all over the region.
"Ljubljana bus station is the main bus station in Ljubljana and Slovenia, with 33 platforms.
Although operating in a small space and being the smallest station among European capital city stations, it is characterized by excellent cooperation with domestic and international carriers."
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Again bus station offers a great starting point for your trips around Slovenia.
By car
A1 and A2 highways intersect in Ljubljana and form a cross across the country. Ljubljana is therefore very easy to reach from all four neighbouring countries.
Don't forget to buy yourself an e-vignette if you are planning to use Slovenian highways.
Slovenian cuisine is a perfect mixture of authentic recipes and the influence of neighboring countries. It is known for some unique dishes that are just waiting to be tried. Prices vary a lot and so does the level of culinary art. Especially in Ljubljana, there is a wide range of restaurants for all tastes and budgets. Many restaurants have options for people with special diets (gluten-free, lactose-free, vegetarian...)
Not just the main dishes. Slovenia is well known for traditional desserts and drinks that accompany different foods. If you are not sure what to order, keep in mind that Slovenes are proud of their food so they will gladly walk you through their menus to satisfy your needs.
"Pizzeria with almost legendary status. It was the first pizzeria in ex-Yugoslavia. It kept some of the traditional charm, and it hasn't changed much since 1st of April 1974 when it was opened."
"Das ist Walter is a popular Balkan restaurant in Ljubljana. The food is great value for money, they specialize in dishes made on charcoal grill. The restaurant has typical Bosnian cuisine, nice Turkish coffee, and tasty baklava."
"The guest house Hiša Pod Gradom is a relaxed hotel that also houses a restaurant. The atmosphere of the building reflects its history, with traditional European dishes being served."
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Where to grab some drinks?
Ljubljana has some pretty good places to grab some drinks. You have probably seen that map about which type of drinks are the most popular in the country. Well, Ljubljana lies somewhere in the middle. And it is great, that means there is a bar for wine, beer or spirits lovers.
Most of the bars will be full on Friday and Saturday evenings. At the time when students are in the city Wednesday seems to be an unofficial students' party day.
Bars are mostly open until 11 p.m. or midnight. Some of them are after that transformed into small clubs. You will find them the fullest in the months between May and September, but also in December when popular Advent markets bring many people to the city center.
"Metelkova Art Center is a multi-cultural arts and nightlife hub located in a former Yugoslav military base close to the center of Ljubljana. It is a popular destination to grab some drinks or party all night long. It is very popular in alternative culture circles."
"Prulcek is a great live music venue with a nice selection of different drinks. It has a small stage that hosts live music, concerts, and music jams almost every day. Perfect place to grab a drink and enjoy in great music evening."
"The Centre for urban culture Kino Šiška is a popular concert venue with regular performances of indie rock, electronic music, and metal, as well as theatre and dance. It's also the home of renowned festivals such as Druga Godba and MENT. In front of the centre, there is also a great bar which is very popular with locals and visitors."
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Want to grab a cup of coffee?
Slovenians just love coffee. And Ljubljana is no exception. It has a bustling coffee making/drinking scene. You will find a mixture of Balkan and Italian influence in Slovenian coffee culture. Therefore you will see bars where black
"Maybe the best coffee you can get in Slovenia. If you're in the mood for something special, head to Stow Cafe in the City Museum of Ljubljana. Not just coffee also the concept of coffee shop is something special and worth of visit."
"The Kavarna SEM lounge bar is a great place to work or grab a coffee to refill your batteries. It has a beautiful garden with deckchairs and a terrace, as well as plugs and outlets for electronic devices."
Ready to extend your Ljubljana adventure? My extended guide offers exclusive insights into lesser-known sights, unique dining experiences, and best accomodations + many more attractions for you to visit.
At just $5.00, it's an affordable investment in an unforgettable Ljubljana journey.
Zdravo (trust me this one will work in all Western Balkan countries)! My name is Ziga and I'm from Slovenia, which is the northernmost part of the Balkan peninsula.
▶️Yeah, I know you've heard about Balkan before. It is that mosaic of countries on the Eastern side of Europe, where stories and myths still live, where food is so delicious that you won't be able to stop eating (nor will Balkan people stop feeding you), where nature is so pure and unrealistic that your brain won't believe that you are still on the same planet.
▶️Well, I know this region even better. I speak and understand the languages of people living there, and even with stamps from 40+ countries on my passport, I can’t stop exploring, what I believe is one of the most beautiful parts of our planet.
▶️Check some of my travel guides. Or even better, let me help you with the creation of personalized itineraries. For those who really wish to understand where they are going, I offer very detailed travel consultations. I have always enjoyed preparing trips for all kinds of travelers; for those who find their peace in outdoor activities and those who enjoy exploring long-lost ruins.
Let's embark on a Balkan Journey where you will finally realize that dreams can really come true. ✈️
Connect with me: 📸 Instagram: @balkanjourneys 📩 Email: balkanjourneys@gmail.com
🌏🎒 #BalkanJourneys #MosaicOfCountries
