The charming historic center, the fairy tale bridges, the hidden gems and everything worth discovering in the capital of Slovenia. Ljubljana is a delightful little surprise, a city that is easy to fall in love with.
Built around the lush green banks of the Ljubljanica River, the capital of Slovenia is a small city (among the smallest capitals in Europe) with distinctive interest and unique charm. Ljubljana is a city full of surprises, easy to explore and to fall in love with.
Youthful vibe, bohemian charm, distinctive architecture, engaging cultural and nightlife scenes, "green" culture, well-tended parks, and an extensive network of pedestrian streets and cycle paths, compose the profile of an alternative and appealing destination in Central Europe.
Ljubljana: What to see
The heart of the city
Your stroll will start from the central Preseren Square, the heart of the city. Here stands the statue of Slovenias national poet, France Preseren. The Ljubljanica River divides the city in two, and the cafés and restaurants along the water fill with locals and visitors. From here youll set out to discover the architectural gems of the historic center: Baroque, neoclassical and art nouveau buildings, most of which bear the signature of the famous Slovenian architect Joze Plecnik. The innovative architect shaped the citys profile in the early 20th century, building bridges (such as the famed Triple Bridge, a symbol of the city) and churches, marrying neoclassical style with art deco.
The Castle
Crossing the ornate Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) you will reach the opposite bank where the medieval castle (Ljubljanski Grad) stands imposingly on a verdant hill. It is Ljubljanas most iconic landmark. Since the 11th century it has been an integral part of the citys history, while its present form dates to 1511. Walk (or take the funicular) up to the observation tower to enjoy the best panoramic view of the city.
The bridges and the… dragons
Ljubljana is full of bridges. Each bridge is a work of art. The Triple Bridge (Tromostovje), designed by Joze Plecnik, consists of three separate bridges standing side by side. The citys most famous bridge, however, is the Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most), adorned with four dragon statues. As you will notice, dragons are a beloved symbol of the city - because a myth says that Jason and the Argonauts founded the city at the very spot where he slew a fearsome dragon.
Tivoli Park
Slovenias capital is a lush green city that prides itself on its well-kept parks and countless green corners you encounter even in the very heart of the center. The citys largest and most beautiful park, Tivoli, is a favorite place for locals to relax and stroll, just 10 minutes from the center. Walk along the path designed by Joze Plecnik, ascending wooded hills and admiring statues, fountains and art nouveau buildings.
Dont miss
- The National Gallery (National Gallery of Slovenia), founded in 1918, is the countrys most important art museum with the largest collection of Slovenian paintings. Also visit the Museum of Architecture and Design to discover the philosophy and work of Joze Plecnik, the architect to whom Ljubljana owes much of its charm.
- The Central Market (also the work of architect Plecnik) stretches between the Tromostovje and Zmajski most bridges. Take a stroll to buy local cheeses, spices, Slovenian prsut prosciutto, and distinctive souvenirs such as handmade knits.
- At the famed Metelkova squat you will discover Ljubljanas alternative art scene. It is an autonomous cultural zone, in a former Yugoslav army base north of the center, packed with shops, workshops, galleries, original cafés and restaurants.
- Visit a traditional tavern (gostilna) to taste authentic Slovenian cuisine. Jota soup (with beans and smoked pork), the spicy sausage kranjska klobasa, kraski prsut (prosciutto) and struklji (savory or sweet rolled dough cut into round slices) are some local specialties. Special mention goes to Slovenias wines, which you can sample at one of the citys many wine bars.
- Its worth adding a trip to Lake Bled to your itinerary, about 55 km northwest of Ljubljana. A fairytale lake surrounded by mountains, at the center of which lies a small island. The only building there is the church built in the 17th century, which from afar looks as if it is floating on the lake. The romantic setting is completed by the castle perched on the rock.
