Things to do and see in Slovenia’s capital: sites, attractions, coffee shops, and restaurants
With a population of 280,000, Ljubljana (pronounced lyoo-BLYAH-nah) may seem like a sleepy capital. But don’t let the size fool you. Slovenia’s close proximity to Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia has given this former Yugoslav Republic and its main city an international feel. It is reflected in the cuisine, architecture, and the openness of the residents.
Ljubljana has seen an influx of visitors in recent years, but sometimes gets overshadowed by bigger regional neighbors Vienna and Venice. Those that do visit will be rewarded with all of the amenities of a metropolis, combined with a laid-back atmosphere.
From diverse farm-to-table restaurants, to historic buildings, to numerous cultural events year-round, Ljubljana offers something for every type of traveler. Furthermore, the city has put much emphasis on its environmental impact and has been named European Green Capital 2016 by the European Commission. It has walkable neighborhoods, bicycle-friendly streets, and abundant green spaces.
I first visited Ljubljana in 2001, then again in 2014 on a culinary trip with fellow bloggers from The Travel Mob. This time around, I was able to explore the city in more depth. Here are my recommendations.
BEST MAJOR ATTRACTIONS
The city’s Old Town is split into two parts on either side of the Ljubljanica River. From the main square (Prešernov trg, named after Slovenian national poet France Prešeren), you can cross the Triple Bridge to the medieval section. Mestni trg (Town Square) and Stari trg (Old Square) are two of the oldest preserved streets in the city. The left bank of the river, settled in the 12th century, is centered on spacious Novi trg (New Square).
After an earthquake in 1895 destroyed much of Ljubljana, new structures were designed in the Art Nouveau style, supplementing the Baroque buildings that remained. In the 20th century, renowned Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik* put his stamp on the city by constructing many of Ljubljana’s most celebrated landmarks.
In addition to the Triple Bridge, his works include the Dragon Bridge (adorned with statues of the city symbol, a green dragon), embankments along the river, Central Market halls (see Other Activities), and the National & University Library building. His style is associated with the Vienna Secession architecture.
*For a detailed exploration of the architect’s work, I recommend the Walking Tour of Plečnik‘s Ljubljana.
The medieval Ljubljana Castle is situated on a hill above the city and accessible by a funicular*. It houses art and museum exhibitions, a chapel with 15th century frescoes, viewing tower, and two restaurants. Visitors can learn about the history of the fortress by watching Virtual Castle, a 12-minute documentary (offered in several languages). Guided tours are also available.
If you visit in the evening, you may catch one of numerous cultural events held on the premises. In the past they have included concerts, theater shows, and open-air movie nights.
*The price (8€) includes a round trip funicular ride, plus admission to the Virtual Castle, Outlook Tower, Slovenian History permanent exhibition, and all temporary exhibitions.
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Tivoli City Park is Ljubljana’s largest green space, a few streets from the city center. Laid out in 1813 by French engineer Jean Blanchard, the park has been expanded and re-landscaped throughout the years.
It features tree-lined alleys, fountains, and sculptures, as well as children’s play areas and bike rental stations. Nature lovers will enjoy the greenhouse, rose garden, fishpond and bird watching opportunities.
Plečnik designed the central Jakopič Promenade, leading up to the 17th century Tivoli Mansion. The promenade has been used as a year-round exhibit space for large-format photographs, and the mansion houses a café and the International Centre of Graphic Arts.
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
Eipprova Street runs along the Gradaščica channel in Trnovo, a residential neighborhood southwest of downtown. Lined with chestnut trees and a few pubs/restaurants, it’s more low-key than the popular areas.
Metelkova City is a social center that developed in the 1990s on the site of former military barracks. Named after a 19th-century priest/philologist, it’s now a hub of alternative culture. In addition to nightlife, you can find performance spaces, street art, and occasional outdoor festivals around the complex.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
For the adventurous at heart, stand-up paddle boarding on the Ljubljanica River is a unique way to see the city. If you need a break, there are areas with concrete steps along the water, great for resting and sunbathing. To learn more about this experience, see how Duncan from the Travel Mob did on his paddling tour.
The Central Market has long been a place to shop and socialize. It includes an open-air market on the Pogačarnev and Vodnikov squares, an indoor section, plus several shops on the river. Other than produce from area farmers, you can buy dairy, fish, meats, imported food items, and flowers. Hours vary by season.
FOOD & DRINK
Slovenian cuisine has been shaped by the diversity of the landscape, as well as history (centuries of Austro-Hungarian rule) and neighboring countries (Italy, Croatia). There are 24 distinct gastronomic regions, and Ljubljana lies at the intersection of four of them.
Despite its small size, the city has an extensive and diverse dining scene. With farms, forests, wineries, and the Adriatic coast within a short distance, it’s commonplace for restaurants to use local ingredients.
Whether you’re looking for traditional Slovenian fare, modern fusion cuisine, or handmade desserts, Ljubljana delivers. And if you happen to visit in warmer months, many places have outdoor patios.
Restaurants
Špajza (Gornji trg 28), located on a quiet street at the edge of the city center, is a high-end restaurant serving Slovenian, Mediterranean and international dishes. It is worth a visit for homemade pasta and a large selection of Slovenian wines. The intimate candle-lit rooms feature cottage-style décor, complete with plaid table cloths, cast iron accessories, and wood floors.
Repete (Gornji trg 23) may have a small menu that’s written on a chalkboard near the entrance, but the items change frequently. You will find fresh soups, sandwiches, and vegetarian-friendly hot and cold dishes. Meat options include homemade burgers. Repete also has a full bar and hosts live music (jazz, acoustic) on select evenings.
Cafe Kolaž (Gornji trg 15) is an affordable spot downtown, offering healthy food items and beverages, such as homemade lemonade. The café hosts various events (live music, literary evenings, art exhibitions), and patrons can read from a selection of books and daily newspapers.
Čajna Hiša (Stari trg 3) doubles as a tea room and restaurant. Besides an assortment of specialty teas from around the world, the menu includes breakfast items, sandwiches, salads, desserts and alcohol (beer, wine). The spacious interior is decorated with dark wood furniture, and loft seating is set up in the back.
See also: Tasting Slovenian cuisine with Slocally.
Coffee / drinks
Cafe Čokl (Krekov trg 8) is a small coffee shop near the Ljubljana Castle funicular. Owner Tine describes himself as a coffee nerd, and it shows. Čokl features fair-trade, organic beans that are roasted on the premises, and then used within a few days to ensure freshness. Also available: cold brew coffee, cocoa, and homemade iced tea.
Bi-Ko-Fe (Židovska Steza 2, now closed) means “Would you like some coffee?” in Slovenian. This funky café in the city center attracts an artsy crowd, and its award-winning interior features recycled materials. In addition to coffee, Bi-Ko-Fe serves alcoholic beverages and light snacks.
LP Bar (Novi trg 2) is a coffee shop/bar, located inside a century-old building. It has a main hall with arched ceilings and plush seating, plus two bar rooms and a back courtyard. Besides drinks and coffee, guests can order tea, pastries, and sandwiches. LP often hosts live music and art exhibitions.
Desserts / chocolate
Domača peka (Igriška ulica 3) is a family-run cake shop (the name means “home baking”) and has been in operation since 1991. They specialize in traditional pies, but also have a selection of gluten-free and vegan desserts.
Zvezda (Wolfova 14 and other locations) is hugely popular for its quality cakes and pastries. The on-site deli also sells chocolate, marmalade, and homemade ice cream.
Čokoladni atelje Dobnik (Trg Republike 1) has 20 years of experience making gourmet chocolates, pralines, and desserts. All products are preservatives-free and manufactured by hand in a workshop near Ljubljana.
See also: Coffee and desserts in Ljubljana.
DAY TRIP
Ljubljana lies 54km/33mi from Bled, a resort town in the Julian Alps (northwestern Slovenia). Located alongside a glacial lake of the same name and near the Triglav National Park, Bled has drawn visitors since the mid-19th century. Main attractions are the 11th century Bled Castle and a small island in the middle of the lake.
The castle was built on a steep cliff above Bled, about 130m/426 ft. high. Its terraces have panoramic views of the town, lake, and surrounding mountain ranges, which alone is worth the 9€ admission fee (price as of September 2014). Inside the castle grounds, you can also tour a Gothic chapel and museum of regional history.
The island is accessible by a wooden boat called pletna (9€ round trip). 99 stone steps lead up to the Gothic/Baroque Church of the Assumption, where you can ring a bell for good luck. For up-close views of the lake, hike a trail encircling the hill.
See also: Visiting Lake Bled, Slovenia.
TRAVEL TIPS
- Thanks to a central location, Ljubljana is easily accessible by air and rail from other European cities. A number of international airlines serve the airport, including low-cost carriers and Slovenia’s Adria.
- Ljubljana is generally safe during the day and at night. However, it’s always advisable to use caution and not flash valuables, especially in areas away from the city center.
- English is widely spoken and many restaurants feature multilingual menus (English, German, Italian).
LINKS
- Visit Ljubljana – the official tourism website of Ljubljana and Central Slovenia
- The Travel Mob’s Guide to Ljubljana – our team’s favorite Ljubljana spots, plus useful resources (free e-book)
- Ljubljana Magazine – an online publication covering food, nightlife, arts, and entertainment
- Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport | Ljubljana Railway Station
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I traveled to Slovenia as part of the #TasteLjubljana project, organized by The Travel Mob blogging team and Visit Ljubljana. All thoughts and opinions expressed on Jetting Around are mine.
Thank you to Fine Ljubljana Apartments for providing a studio apartment. It was modern, comfortable, and close to everywhere I needed to be. Also, thank you to Get Your Guide and our knowledgeable guide Barbara for showing us around the city.
Francesca (@WorkMomTravels) says
I’m enjoying all that I’m learning about Ljubljana from you! It looks to be a beautiful place, one with all of the characteristics that I love most about European cities. I’d totally try the stand-up paddle boarding, and I LOVE that photo of the restaurants on Stari Trg!
Francesca (@WorkMomTravels) recently posted..Social Media Week Chicago #SMWChicago #SMWChiTravel
Jetting Around says
Glad you’re enjoying the LJU coverage, Francesca! I wish I’d had time to go paddle boarding, but I sure walked by that river a lot… No complaints. ;)
Aggy says
Pola, you really should stop tempting me with Ljubljana! It looks like one amazing place and I love the food scene that you’ve been describing so much. And of course, Lake Bled is like up high on my list! One day Slovenia, one day!
Aggy recently posted..Exploring the Wine Village of Saint-Émilion
Jetting Around says
Haha… It has to happen, right? Fingers crossed. :)
Lucy says
Super helpful post – I’m planning on visiting Ljubljana next summer so will definitely be bookmarking this to use then!
Lucy recently posted..Schönbrunn: Vienna’s summer palace fit for royalty
Jetting Around says
So glad you’ll be there, Lucy! I hope we’ll get to chat about the city after your trip.
u5k0 says
Slovenia is a really good place to take a vacation from your vacation. Not a lot of must-see points and everything’s pretty close to everything else. Great place to just chill and do whatever in the middle of a check-list euro-trip – and it’s still ridiculously European.
Jetting Around says
Hi there! You’re right about the laid-back vibe in Ljubljana – even when I had a packed day, I never felt too rushed.
Cathy Sweeney says
Ljubljana has just gotten on my radar in the past couple of years and I’ve been very interested in all that I’ve read about it. I especially appreciate your post on the best of a variety of activities to do and the compelling photos. I hope that I get to Ljubljana before it becomes more of a tourist destintation, as I’m sure it will.
Cathy Sweeney recently posted..Top 5 Reasons to Visit Emilia-Romagna
Jetting Around says
Well said about Ljubljana’s popularity! I hope you get to visit – based on your posts about Central Europe, you would probably enjoy this city too.
Tea says
Great guide! I’ve been to Ljubljana twice but I coudn’t find the right spots. I guess I have to give it another chance
Tea recently posted..Rabbiting on in Chelsea
Jetting Around says
Hi Tea. I’m glad you’re considering another trip to Ljubljana – it’s worth it!
the lazy travelers says
whole-heartedly agree with francesca– wouldn’t mind sitting at one of those restaurants on stari trg. ALSO, thank you for including the pronunciation. not that we didn’t know it before or anything… totes did for sure…
the lazy travelers recently posted..jetsetters: the traveling greaves
Jetting Around says
Oh yeah, checking out places on that street was definitely one of the highlights.
Traveling Ted says
Ljublijana looks really chilled and laid back. Thank you for the guide on the eats, to dos, and especially how to pronounce.
Traveling Ted recently posted..Ontario canoeing fishing camping photo essay
Jetting Around says
Well, the spelling rocks… :)
kami says
I’m hoping to go to Ljubljana still in October so this post comes very useful! Thank you so much for it!
kami recently posted..Brno – a perfect Central European city
Jetting Around says
Hi Kami. I hope you do get to Ljubljana, it’s such a cool city!
Lance | Trips By Lance says
This is such a complete guide to a location I know nothing about. The dining scene sounds great, especially since its location around all those gastronomic zones brings it near four of them, or at least I think that’s what you said. OK, I double checked, and you said four. That architecture is really beautiful, not to mention the surrounding scenery.
Lance | Trips By Lance recently posted..Sleeping Bear Dunes Three-Hour Guide
Jetting Around says
Hi Lance. The first time I visited Ljubljana in 2001, I liked it. This time I loved it. There’s just more of everything now, and the city can easily rival bigger and better-known capitals in terms of charm and food. I hope you make a stop there in your travels!
Travelling Milady says
Slovenja is amazing and Bled is my favorite place.
Travelling Milady recently posted..Z życia prostego człowieka.
Jetting Around says
Agreed about Slovenia! I hope to visit again and maybe hike around Bled.
Evik says
Wow! This post is probably all I would need to know about LJU. I wasn’t planning goong there, but now…I am!:)
Jetting Around says
So glad to hear that, Evik! :) I’m sure you’d enjoy this lovely city.
Danuta says
Very good and compleate guide to Ljubljana!If I ever have a chance to go there, I will remember to use it:) Thanks!
Danuta recently posted..Will ‘Evo cumple’ again? *** Wybory prezydenckie w Boliwii 2014
Jetting Around says
Hi Danuta. I’m glad you enjoyed the guide. Ljubljana has become one of my favorite European cities and I recommend even a weekend stay there. So much fun to be had! :)
Kieu says
I would like to go back and experience the food scene again. It wasn’t so great our first time there. :T But the city is beautiful and cute and so easy to get around. We took the day trip to Bled too, that was fun! Nice city guide, P!
Kieu recently posted..7 things they don’t tell you about overlanding East Africa
Jetting Around says
The first time I went I didn’t really get to explore the restaurant scene, go figure… But now I know how awesome thee food is in Ljubljana and I hope you’ll give it another try. :)
Leah says
For some reason, Slovenia keeps popping up in conversation. Everyone that’s been there just raves about it. I guess I best get there before the rest of the world does and ruins it.
Leah recently posted..France, Italy, and an Attitude Adjustment
Jetting Around says
Do it, Leah! If you need any more convincing, Slovenian wine is pretty darn good.. :)
Erin at The World Wanderer says
What an awesome guide! The more I read about Slovenia, the more I know I have to go back. I can easily combine it with my beloved Croatia too. Definitely bookmarking this!
Erin at The World Wanderer recently posted..Music Monday: I Lived.
Jetting Around says
Hi Erin. You need to go back to Slovenia, and I need to go back to Croatia. How about we meet at the border, deal? ;)
Packing my Suitcase says
Hi Pola!! Im happy to have found your blog… your pictures are stunning!
I went to Ljubljana this year and I loved. Such a small and pretty town.
I also recommended Repete on my post about the city :D
I hope we keep in touch! I wish you an amazing weekend :)
Allane
Packing my Suitcase recently posted..Surviving winter in Winnipeg
Jetting Around says
Hi Allane! Thanks for stopping by. Glad to know you enjoyed Ljubljana as much as you did – the food alone is a reason to go back there…
The Wandering Cs says
We didn’t even know we wanted to visit Slovenia. Thanks to your article(s), now we know that we would love to spend some time there some day.
Thanks!
Jetting Around says
So glad to hear this! I hope your travels take you to Slovenia and that you enjoy it as much as I did. Thanks for the note. :)
Marc says
Thank you for the great guide. This is one of my favorite places to visit and I have been there over 4 times and you are spot on.
Marc recently posted..Uncharted 101- Bucket List of Destinations 2016
Jetting Around says
Thanks, Marc! Nice to hear that from someone who knows the city well.
Agness of Fit Travelling says
This is one of the most detailed and helpful posts I have seen about Ljubljana, Pola! Keep up the good work.
Jetting Around says
I’m glad to hear that, Agness! Have a great time in Ljubljana if/when you go.