Holidays in Ljubljana

Things to do in Ljubljana

Central square

Prešernov Trg is a beautiful and lively square which links the medieval part of the town with its newer quarters. It's surrounded by interesting Art Nouveau pastel-coloured buildings as well as a Francisan monastery, housing an impressive library. From here you can cross the three historic bridges over the Ljubljanica River.

Sightseeing and attractions

There is an array of open-air bars and cafés lining the riverside, plus excellent theatres, boat rides, museums and art galleries, a colourful daily outdoor market and a Sunday flea market. There are also plenty of statues and monuments to discover, like the Robba Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers. Known for its dragons, how many will you spot?

Ljubljana Castle

Challenge yourself on the steep incline walk to the top of the hill, where the 900-year-old castle proudly stands. Or, take the funicular railway for sweeping views of the city, even better from the top of the Belvedere Tower or along the ramparts. With the Slovenian history exhibition and on-site café, you will have a fantastic time within its grounds.

Ljubljana Old Town

Stroll down the cobbled streets of the Old Town, popping in and out of culture-filled souvenir shops and capturing shots of the Baroque style buildings. Ljubljana's Old Town is filled with sights, including the Town Hall, the Dragon Bridge (the symbol of the city), and the wooden shop fronts and hidden courtyards of Stari Trg.

Museums

Art and culture are what keeps the city alive. You can visit lots of museums within the city centre, like the fun house of illusions, or visit the national gallery, home to the largest collection of Slovene art. You could also make your way down Križevniška, one of Ljubljana's oldest streets and imagine you're stepping back in time.

Culture centre

Metelkova is an internationally-renowned alternative culture community in the centre of Slovenia's capital, that draws comparisons to Copenhagen's Kristiania, and is dedicated to organising social and cultural activities for the public. Sort of a city within a city, it comprises a former prison (now Celical Hostel), several clubs, live music spaces, art galleries and artist studios.

Tivoli Park

Take a break from the city's buildings, and escape to the luscious greenery, blooming flower beds and peaceful nature-filled environment. Tivoli Park is the largest park in Ljubljana on the outskirts of the city and was laid out during the French imperial administration of Ljubljana in 1813 and named after the Parisian Jardins de Tivoli.

Walking

Whether it be a stroll through the Old Town streets, a dawdle through the central parks and squares, or a trickier route up to the Ljubljana castle hill – the city centre has you covered. But don't forget, Ljubljana is more than just a city, you can also venture into the nearby Mali Plac nature reserve for great hiking routes and a change of scenery.

Crossing the city's bridges is a great way to experience life in Ljubljana. A must is the Dragon Bridge which bears the city's coat of arms, made famous by the legend of Jason and the Argonauts. Triple Bridge is the most unusual, whilst Cobbler's Bridge is one of the oldest and Butcher's Bridge takes you into the market.

Bike rides

Grab a bike and set off on a riverside ride. There's no better way to explore the city within a brief period than on a leisurely bike ride, fun for the whole family too. The Plečnik cycle route is the perfect way to explore Ljubljana’s Trnovo district, city centre, Žale cemetery and Tivoli Park – all within a few hours.

Summer festivals

The Ljubljana Summer Festival brings world-class music to the city throughout July and August. We also love the Open Kitchen, held within the Pogačar Square every Friday for you to try new local food like štruklji, a traditional pastry roll with a range of fillings. There are also other craft, music and theatre festivals and events for you to enjoy throughout the summer months.

Shopping

Ljubljana is an incredible place to shop - with outdoor fairs, fresh fruit and flower markets, cultural shops and even shopping centres on the outskirts, you certainly won't run out of options. You will also come across lots of Slovenian food shops, great for taking some home-made treats back at the end of the day.

There is some good walking in and around Ljubljana as the city is small which makes it possible to reach all the cultural and historical sites by foot and is suitable for all levels of walkers. Take a stroll along the river side, climb up to the hilltop castle for some spectacular views over the city and surroundings, or take a boat tour down the river.