Ljubljana Slovenia
Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia and is a very charming city. The Ljubljanica River flows through town and numerous bridges cross over the river. There is also a castle on top of a hill in town.
When I traveled to Slovenia, I made Ljubljana somewhat of a base for me. As I did not travel around in my own car it became a great middle of the spoke to get out to some of the other spots and was very easy to travel from Venice Italy and to and from Zagreb, Croatia. That being said if you only have a day here you can totally get to all the highlights of the city also.
Getting to Ljubljana
The Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU) is about 30 km from the city center and the largest airport in Slovenia. My trip entailed getting a bus from Venice Italy which dropped me at the central bus station. This is in a convenient area and easy to walk to several accommodation options. There is also a train station right next to the bus station. I investigated taking the trains but found the buses to be cheaper and similar in times, so I did that. Also, at this bus station there are local buses that bring you to Lake Bled area and to some of the nearby towns such as Škofja Loka and Postojna that are super cool to check out also.
top things to do ljubljana
Prešeren Square and Triple Bridge
Prešeren Square and Triple Bridge are right at the center of Ljubljana and you will not visit without coming through this area. Also, off the Square is the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation which is styled in early Baroque style from the middle of the 17th century. Close to this square is the Town Hall and located in front is the Robba Fountain which is the symbol of Ljubljana.
Dragon Bridge
If you head down the open market you will be heading toward the Dragon Bridge which was completed in 1901 and has four detailed dragon statues on the sides.
The Skyscraper (Nebotičnik)
Also, a worthy place to check out is the The Skyscraper (Nebotičnik). This 13-story tower was the tallest building in the Balkans when completed in 1933. The Skyscraper still boasts amazing views of Ljublijana, the castle and is a wonderful place to watch the sunset. Get to the café to order a drink or two and soak in the scenery.
Tivoli Park
On the western side of the city center is Tivoli Park. While here you can explore gardens, nature trails or walk Jakopič Promenade, an arrow-straight avenue that runs from the eastern entrance up to the Neoclassical Tivoli Castle.
Castle Ljubljana
While here it is worthwhile to head up the steep hill to Castle Ljubljana. You can climb up the hill or get a ride up via funicular. It is free to explore the castle courtyard and chapel but if you want epic views from the tower you will need to pay.
where i stayed
As I kept leaving Ljubljana and then coming back, I stayed in three very different types of accommodation and truly loved my experience at each one. Honestly there were so many great options to choose from and I found this city very walkable so almost any place is a great choice.
Guesthouse Stari Tišler – bed and breakfast feel with cozy and clean rooms with more authentic antique feel. Extremely convenient to the bus and train station and city center.
Bed & Breakfast Atticus- beautiful rooms but slightly farther from the bus and train station. On the opposite side of the river. Had a very tasty breakfast included.
Turn Hostel– great location, clean, great bathrooms, good wifi.
