Your Introduction To Ljubljana: What To See

Ljubljana manages to pack a delightful punch of unforgettable activities, whilst retaining a charming slower tempo of life, characteristic of smaller European cities. You can enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee by the emerald green river Ljubljanica one minute and experience the rush of urban stand-up paddling the next.

It’s not a secret that Ljubljana offers the perfect balance that can’t be matched by any other European capital. Wondering why?

• Unlike many capital cities, Ljubljana is small and compact, allowing visitors to explore it easily on foot.
• It’s a haven for lovers of culture, fashion aficionados, and culinary addicts. Not only is there something to do for every single visitor, there is always plenty to discover.
• Good news? The compact size allows visitors to see and experience an unbelievable number of things within a short amount of time.
• Ljubljana is one of the most sustainable cities in Europe, crowned Europe’s Greenest Capital in 2016.
• Last but not least, it’s the perfect starting point for touring the rest of the country or, if you’re looking to experience authentic Slovenian culture and get a true feel of the country’s rich heritage, you can pack in plenty of activities around Ljubljana.
• Some of the most fascinating options are visiting the world-renowned Lake Bled, exploring the magical meadows of Velika planina or enjoying the must-see underground paradise in Postojna.
• If you’re hoping to travel beyond borders. Croatia’s capital Zagreb is a mere 1,5-hour drive away and Trieste, the Italian port with a fascinating history, is even closer.

All in all, Ljubljana is the up-and-coming tourist destination you’ve been dreaming of. It’s time to discover all its charms. If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide you’ve certainly come to the right place.

JUBLJANA BASICS: CURRENCY, POPULATION, AND AREA

Before we introduce you to all our top picks on what to see in Ljubljana, let’s start at the very beginning. Every major trip abroad is a little bit different, so nailing down all the details before your departure is crucial. We’ve prepared a quick guide to help you through the process of planning:

• Local Currency: Euro
• Local Time: GMT+1
• Language: Slovenian (English is spoken and understood throughout the city)
• Population: 292,988
• The symbol of the city: Ljubljana dragon

GETTING TO AND AROUND LJUBLJANA

Ljubljana is well-connected and can be easily reached by plane, train or even bus shuttles from nearby airports. Apart from its main transport hub – Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport – the closest airports are in Trieste (Italy), Venice Treviso (Italy), Zagreb (Croatia) and Graz (Austria).

If you’re flying to Ljubljana Airport, reaching the city centre couldn’t be easier. Simply hop on one of the highly frequent local buses and reach Ljubljana’s central bus & railway station in less than 40 minutes.

Once in Ljubljana, you can choose from several different means of public transport or simply explore the charming city on foot. Local buses connect the city centre with all the main suburbs and are both affordable and highly reliable. Those wanting to explore Ljubljana by bus can purchase Urbana public transport cards available at all public transport ticket offices and tourist information centres for just €2.00 (as of November 2019). Travellers can then store up to €50.00 of credit, with a single journey fare costing €1.30.

Where To Eat In Ljubljana

A way to one’s heart is thorough their stomach and few cities celebrate this more intensely than Ljubljana. This is the place where traditional Slovenian food meets contemporary cuisine.

It’s commonly known that the right choice of drink can elevate your food to the next level. And one thing is for sure: Ljubljana will win over the heart of any devoted wine enthusiast out there. Slovenia is located precisely on the 46^th parallel, exactly like some of the other best wine-producing regions in the world (take for example Napa Valley and Bordeaux).

The importance of food in Slovenian culture cannot be overestimated. Slovenia is home to no less than 24 different gastronomic areas as well as three large wine-growing areas. It’s also home to the oldest vine in the world, dating back over 400 years. In the culinary heart of Slovenia is beekeeping – there are over 90 thousand beekeepers in Slovenia. This is just a glimpse into what you can learn and experience by taking part in the Ljubljana Food Tour. Not only will you be able to discover traditional Slovenian food in authentic Slovenian restaurants, you will also be able to taste local wines, meet and share the experience with other foodies and learn about Slovenian traditions first-hand. If food is a large part of your travels, this is an experience you simply shouldn’t miss.

If you’re a dedicated wine lover or just enjoy a good glass of wine, you absolutely need to experience wine tasting in Ljubljana. Taking place in the very heart of Ljubljana, this extraordinary experience allows you to visit a majestic 300-year-old wine cellar. This interactive wine-tasting experience allows you to taste exquisite wine from seven local winemakers, as well as learn all the essential wine facts. Moreover, you will be able to enjoy fun games and even receive a certificate for becoming an ambassador of Slovenian wines. This authentic and fun activity allows you to explore Slovenian culture in an exciting, unique way and you are bound to never look at wine the same way.

Enjoying Ljubljana’s Nature: Tivoli Park Ljubljana

You might be thinking that major European capitals don’t have much to offer in terms of nature. When it comes to Ljubljana, this couldn’t be further away from the truth.

Tucked away from the hustle of main shopping streets and yet just a 10-minute walk from the city centre is Park Tivoli. This vibrant green haven is home to numerous species of birds and highly popular among the locals. Whether you’re looking for a calm and meditative morning walk in nature or a good conversation over a cup of coffee, Tivoli Park Ljubljana is the place for you. With its wonderful playground area and plenty of space to roam around, it’s a popular destination for young families with small children. Moreover, it’s also adored by many local dog owners.

Lovers of nature shouldn’t miss another favourite past-time activity among the local population – sitting by the Ljubljanica river and watching the world go by. Sit on the bench under a majestic tree and take a moment to truly feel Ljubljana’s spirit. There are several cafes right on the riverbank, where you can take in the atmosphere and blend in with the locals.

The City’s Latest Obsession – SUP Ljubljana

Not many activities have created such a sudden craze in Ljubljana as stand-up paddling has. In the past few years this exciting, yet strangely relaxing experience has won the hearts of the nation. Your trip to Ljubljana simply wouldn’t be complete without trying out urban stand-up paddling.

Wondering what makes stand-up paddling so popular?

• It’s considered to be the best summer activity in Ljubljana!
• The Slovenian capital is the only European capital that offers urban stand-up paddling!
• It’s a fun, yet effortless sports activity offering you a glimpse into the local life.
• It’s an active, fun and eco-friendly way to discover the city.

Stand-up paddling on Ljubljanica is based on 4 key principles:

• LEARN. Brief introductory stand-up paddling course which allows complete beginners to start paddling in just 10 minutes. Suitable for children over 12 years of age.
• EXPLORE. Time to start your journey! The group will paddle-board towards the heart of the city, glide under the iconic Three Bridges and truly take in the gorgeous architecture all around.
• REFRESH & RELAX. Time to relax and observe the riverside life go by. Optional: put your balance to the test with fun games!
• REMEMBER. The best moments from your Ljubljanica journey will be captured on a GoPro camera and you will receive all the photos after the tour.

If you want to try out stand-up paddling in a relax and friendly atmosphere, see dates for availability and book your tickets here.

What To Do in Ljubljana: Most Unique Activities

One thing is for sure – Ljubljana is a quirky city like no other. Whether you’re planning your very first visit or returning after several previous visits, there is something new to discover each time. Its ever-evolving city centre and charming cobbled streets are home to several unique experiences. Still wondering what to do in Ljubljana? We’re certain these one-of-a-kind activities will make you fall head over heels for this tiny city!

• Ljubljana Dinner Walk: Discover Ljubljana at night! Romantic but educational walk with your partner? A fun and delicious way to explore the city with friends? Or an interactive experience that can connect you to other travellers from all over the globe? Ljubljana Dinner Walk is ALL of this and more! It’s a guided tour through Ljubljana’s old town and includes several stops that will turn you into a real lover of Slovenian cuisine. This 100-minute tour is brimming with fun facts and local culinary traditions. Take in the sights of medieval, Baroque and Art Nouveau architectural gems while expanding your knowledge of the local culture and cuisine.
• Ljubljana Boat Tours: Forget about the ultra-touristic boat tours and explore Ljubljana’s iconic river Ljubljanica in a more authentic and intimate way. You better get your camera ready because you’re about to make some of the best memories of your travels. The Private Boat Tour is an opportunity to see Ljubljana and its numerous famous buildings, bridges, and sights from a different angle. Away from the city’s hustle and bustle, you will be able to fully take in everything that this truly remarkable city has to offer. Dubbed a ‘marvellous experience’ by hundreds of visitors, this panoramic boat tour is unlike any other boat tour out there. It allows you to not only explore the historical centre of Ljubljana but also discover the nearby nature park and moors.
• Boat fishing on the river Ljubljanica: It’s no surprise by now that water and food are two of the most essential aspects of life in Ljubljana. If you’re willing to take your Slovenian experience to a next level, look no further than a private guided fishing tour on Ljubljanica river. Your group will be led by a professional skipper who will guide you through the river’s bank-side and take you on an unforgettable journey through Slovenia’s capital. Included in the price are refreshing drinks, free equipment, quality tackles, artificial lures, a fishing permit, and an experienced guide.
• Safari on the river Ljubljanica: Observe wild fauna and flora while rowing on the river of seven names (Ljubljanica). Learn the basics of rowing throughout the journey filled with songs of birds, buzzing insects, frogs and the sounds of gently murmuring river. You will drift towards Ljubljana’s suburbs and enter the Ljubljana moors. This is a protected regional park that’s often overlooked by travellers from abroad who centre around the city’s main shopping and tourist areas. However, the moors are well worth a visit and can offer visitors a calm and relaxing break from the rush of travelling.
• Your Unforgettable Slovenian ExperienceTo sum up, Ljubljana is a true gem that has to be seen and experienced in person to be truly appreciated.It offers everything from culture and architecture to all the latest trends like stand-up paddling and sophisticated wine tastings. It’s a place that never fails to impress and manages to pack a huge variety of sights in a very small space.Your Slovenian experience can be elevated by travelling outside of the capital and discovering the stunning beauty that the country has to offer beyond Ljubljana. Slovenia is a tiny country which is exactly what many visitors adore so much. You can enjoy the urban life of its capital, discover the breath-taking beauty of the Julian Alps, be astonished by the underground cave paradise in Postojna and take a swim in the Adriatic sea – all in just a couple of days.Not many countries can offer the amount of landscape diversity that matches Slovenia’s. Here are some of our top picks for experiences outside of Ljubljana:
  • Discover the natural gem of Soča Valley: experience the highest Slovenian mountain pass, follow the Isonzo Front trails (heritage of World War I) and enjoy the spectacular views around the emerald green Soča river. This private tour is one of the most scenic and picturesque travel experiences out there.
  • Horse riding tours: Discover the attractions of the mysterious Karst region in western Slovenia and get to know one of the symbols of Slovenia: the famous Lipizzaner horses. Included in the tour are lunch, snack, and wine tasting, as well as admissions to the beloved Škocjan caves and the popular Lipica stud farm.
  • Slovenian seaside in 1 day: Small, but charming, the Slovenian coast offers magnificent views and beautiful scenery. The 1-day tour covers all the highlights of the Slovenian coast and its hinterland including Socerb castle, Hrastovlje church & frescoes, Sečovlje salt fields, Koper and the picturesque Piran. The latter is a tourist highlight of the Slovenian coast and charms visitors with its narrow medieval streets wedged between scenic houses, churches, and squares.
  • Your fairytale in Bled: Your visit to Slovenia just wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Bled. Discover one of Slovenia’s most spectacular sites that has been the symbol of natural beauty and home to national and individual fairy-tales for centuries. Take a boat ride with a ‘Pletna’ – a traditional wooden boat that guarantees a true journey back in time and don’t skip the famous Bled cream cake, the notorious local dessert.