The Top Things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia: Your Guide to Slovenia's Capital
Staff writer Dempsey P. walks you through what to do in Ljubljana, which is truly a hidden gem when it comes to European travel. Slovenia’s capital will not disappoint!
The Slovenian capital, Ljubljana, is one of the smallest (and most underrated) capitals in Europe.
The city, therefore, does not necessarily have a lengthy list of sights or highlights, but it is ideal if you’re looking for a European weekend getaway from home. Ljubljana is a perfect destination for a city trip, or as a small getaway or addition during your road trip through Slovenia.
We personally visited this beautiful city during our road trip through Slovenia, visiting spots like Lake Bled and Piran as well.
Ljubljana, generally speaking, looks more like an enlarged picturesque town than other European metropolises such as Berlin, Germany, Paris, France, Dublin, Ireland, or Istanbul, Turkey.
Yet this Slovenian capital has a lot more to offer than you might think at first. How about visiting imposing buildings such as the pink Franciscan monastery in the city center or viewing street art in the streets filled with students? You can also do a cool bike tour or SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) in the Ljubljanica river, then let your taste buds be surprised at the large central market.
We would love to give you some tips and inspiration about what to do when visiting the old town of Ljubljana, Slovenia.
About Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, as I noted above, is the capital of Slovenia. It’s the biggest city in the country by a long shot, and it’s a well-kept secret when it comes to European travel. It’s the economic, cultural and political centre of the country, which makes it a must-visit for anyone who is travelling to Slovenia.
The first mention of Ljubljana occurs all the way back in the 1100s. It was situated in the middle of a popular trade route, and it was the historical capital of a Slovenian-inhabited section of the Habsburg Empire. After WW1, Ljubljana became the capital of Slovenia (technically the Socialist Republic of Slovenia), which, at the time, was part of Yugoslavia.
Slovenia, of course, became independent in 1991, and once again, Ljubljana was the obvious Slovenian city to become a capital.
What to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia During Your Visit
There are plenty of fun things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia that you should have on your radar. As such, I’m going to run through what to do in Ljubljana while you’re there. This capital city is quite small, so you should be able to tackle a lot, even if you’ve only got a hotel for the weekend in Ljubljana.
Set Eyes on The Three Bridges of Ljubljana
A view beneath one of the three bridges in central Ljubljana.
The Triple Bridge spans the Ljubljanica River, with the modern part of the city of Ljubljana on one bank and the medieval center on the other.
All three bridges have been part of the car-free pedestrian zone since 2007. Ljubljana is often used as an example of how a car-free pedestrian zone can effectively change the vibe and flow of the city and can make it more tourist-friendly.
The current bridges are designed by the famous local Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik and were built in 1931-32 on the site of a former pedestrian crossing. The oldest bridge on this site dates from 1842.
You can’t miss these bridges even if you want to. They’re unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere, so take a moment to appreciate them.
Jože Plečnik's (1872-1957) influence on the Ljubljana cityscape was so significant that the architectural style of the city is often called "Plečnik's Ljubljana." Although most of his significant works were created in the 20th century, his distinctive style has a very ancient classical character.
After studying in Vienna and working in Prague, the architect returned to Ljubljana in the 1920s and spent the following decades designing some of the city's most recognizable architectural pieces including several embankments and bridges, as well as public spaces, buildings and monuments like: The Triple Bridge (Tromostovje), the Central Market (Osrednja Tržnica), the National and University Library (Narodna in univerzitetna knjižnica), Žale - the city's central cemetery, the Križanke Summer Theatre and the Church of St. Michael (Cerkev sv. Mihaela). Each of Plečnik’s designs cement his legacy in the city and are worth visiting.
Visit the main square: Prešernov trg square
The main square, Prešernov trg square, characterizes Ljubljana. Located in the older part of the city, the square is named for France Preseren, a 19th-century man who is Slovenia's national poet. Well known for his romantic poems, a bronze statue of him graces the east side of the square.
This area is a car-free pedestrian zone and one of the city's main meeting points, located near the river and close to the three bridges.
The pretty pink church in this square is not to be missed. St. Francis Church of the Annunciation is one of the most important buildings in Prešernov Square, and probably also the most photographed. It’s easily one of the most iconic buildings in Ljubljana in general, and a visit would be on most peoples’ list of the top things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Many events take place here, and the building underwent a major renovation in 2007 with spectacular results that we can all appreciate now (especially photograph fanatics).
The Baroque-style church dates from the 17th century and was built on the site of former palaces in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad)
Ljubljana Castle dates back to the 15th century. It is not only an interesting historical place but also a location where many cultural events are held yearly.
You can enter the castle for free through the garden and enjoy a cup of coffee with cake. You can also view an exhibition or buy traditional Slovenian handicrafts here, which some people aren’t aware of.
There is also a chapel and watchtower where you can watch a documentary about the castle's history, though you can get a good sense of the history by walking around. Don't miss the Museum of Slovenian History and - one of our favorites in Ljubljana - the restaurant in the castle's historic Archer's Tower. Strelec restaurant is well known for its high quality, combining local ingredients with Slovenian culinary traditions.
The restaurant is sensational, so maybe plan to visit the castle in mid-morning and spend some time there, then finish your tour with some lunch.
The ideal way to get here is via the Ljubljana Castle Funicular, which takes 33 people 70 meters higher up the hill to the castle in 1 minute. The elevator leaves every 10 minutes.
From January to March and in November, the funicular operates between 10am and 8pm; in April, May and October from 9 am to 9 pm; from June to September it operates between 9 am and 11 pm and in December daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
You have to pay to use the funicular and you can opt for a single ride or a return ticket.
The Dragon Bridge - a symbol of Ljubljana's power
The Dragon Bridge is featured in most of the photos that tourists take in Ljubljana, because of its dragon statues.
Designed by architect Jurij Zaninović, this Art Deco masterpiece was built in 1901 and was one of the earliest reinforced concrete bridges in Europe. It spans the Ljubljanica River between Kopitar Street and Ressel Street.
The dragon symbolizes the power, courage and grandeur of a city that has a proud history and wants to showcase that history for its visitors and citizens.
SUP (stand up paddleboard) on the Ljubljanica River through the center of Ljubljana
In the morning, we left for the Spica Cafe, which is located right on the water but slightly outside the center of Ljubljana.
There we would meet Spela from Bananaway, the organization that gives SUP tours through Ljubljana.
Even if it is your first time on a stand-up paddle board, they will explain everything you need to know. First, you sit quietly on your board, but soon you can stand up, and before you know it, you are floating over the river.
It's a really great experience that you will not soon forget and a very nice way to discover Ljubljana. You can find out more information about booking a tour here.
Do some Street art spotting and have lunch on Trubarjeva Cesta street
We found Trubarjeva Cesta to be the nicest street in Ljubljana.
Unlike the rest of the city, it’s not necessarily a street filled with baroque buildings, but one where you come across one piece of street art after another. You will also find many nice student tents and smaller boutiques here.
Do you want to have lunch in Ljubljana? Then we recommend the restaurant Central Station on this street. This is a restaurant, cafe and radio station in one. And also a nice touch - you can get some very favourable prices and deals here so that you can eat well for a small price! It’s a bargain if you’re doing some European budget travel.
The very alternative Metelkova City
Metelkova City is one of the largest and most successful squatted areas in Europe and the ideal place for a night out. Known for its street art and music, the area is full of places to explore including eclectic art studios, galleries, clubs and social events.
This abandoned army base has become the beating heart of Slovenia's alternative scene – a self-proclaimed autonomous city that hosts more than 1,500 events a year.
In the evening, hundreds of students, creatives and artists gather here. Metelkova holds a special place in the hearts of many residents.
Hike through the Tivoli Park
Tivoli Park is the largest park in the city and is a protected area. Spanning several acres, here you'll find landscaped lawns, walking paths, sculptures, and historical buildings, including Tivoli Castle. There is a lovely pond and the rose garden next to the pond is managed by the Ljubljana Botanical Gardens.
In addition, there is also a playground for children and some interesting sculptures.
Tivoli Park was created in 1813 and the pond was excavated in 1880. The area is ideal for a leisurely stroll, sports, or join in one of the many cultural activities hosted here.
That’s a Wrap on What to See in Ljubljana!
As you can see from our list of what to see in Ljubljana, there’s actually plenty to get up to for a city its size. Many people will agree that it’s the surprise of their Europe trip and rarely, if ever, have I heard about this city letting people down. There are just so many things to do in Ljubljana, Slovenia!
So go to visit Ljubljana with an open mind, and leave with a whole bunch of new wonderful memories!
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