What to Do in Ljubljana? Things to See and Do in the Slovenian Capital

Ljubljana is the capital of Slovenia and one of the most visited cities in the country. With its stunning medieval old town, lively central square and numerous cultural attractions, it has something for every traveller. From exploring the city’s architecture to indulging in its local cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Ljubljana that are sure to make your trip a memorable one.

The old town of Ljubljana is a perfect place to begin your exploration of the city. Here you’ll find charming narrow alleyways with colourful facades, cobblestone streets, and inviting cafés and restaurants. On one side of the old town lies Ljubljana Castle, an impressive fortress perched on a hill and offering splendid panoramic views of the city below. You can take a guided tour of the castle and learn more about its history—or simply admire the majestic views from outside.

The bustling central square, known as Prešeren Square, is the heart of the city’s old town. Here you’ll find the beautiful Robba Fountain, one of the most iconic landmarks of Ljubljana. The fountain is surrounded by cafés and restaurants where you can rest after a long day of sightseeing.

If you’re looking for cultural attractions in Ljubljana, look no further than the vast selection of museums and galleries that are located around the city centre. The National Gallery of Slovenia houses prominent works from the country’s leading modern artists. The Museum of Modern Art and Metelkova are also must-sees for art and design fans.

One of the most interesting places to visit in Ljubljana is Tivoli Park, with its lush greenery and winding paths. Located just a short walk from the city centre, this atmospheric park is popular for picnicking or simply strolling around admiring its natural beauty. You can also find numerous outdoor sculptures here—the perfect spot for photographs.

For food lovers, Ljubljana has plenty to offer. You can sample delicious local dishes at one of the many cosy restaurants located in the old town. Traditional Slovenian cuisine usually features hearty meat dishes and homemade breads but many restaurants also offer lighter vegetarian options too. Of course, no trip to Slovenia would be complete without tasting some hearty goulash or delicious sour cabbage soup.

No matter what you’re looking for—whether it’s cultural attractions, natural beauty or delicious food—it’s easy to find something to keep you entertained in Ljubljana. From its charming architecture to its unique local cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Ljubljana that you won’t find anywhere else in Slovenia. To learn more about the city’s fascinating history and points of interest, be sure to check out In Your Pocket’s comprehensive guide to Ljubljana.

Insider’s Guide: Things to See and Do in Ljubljana, the Slovenian Capital

Ljubljana is a small yet vibrant city, nestled at the foot of the Alps, where the Ljubljanica River flows through its center. The city boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a lively cultural scene. Here are some of the top experiences and places to explore during your visit to Ljubljana:

Attractions:

– Ljubljana Castle: One of the most iconic landmarks in Ljubljana, the castle stands tall on top of a hill overlooking the city. Take a funicular ride up to the castle, and take in the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

– Preseren Square: This is the central square of Ljubljana and is surrounded by impressive architectural landmarks like the pink Franciscan Church and the Art Nouveau Grand Hotel Union.

– Tivoli Park: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the vast green space of Tivoli Park, or rent a bike and cycle through the park’s winding paths, discovering fountains and sculptures along the way.

– Triple Bridge: The iconic Triple Bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks of the city, with three separate bridges connecting the old town to the modern part of the city.

Dining Spots:

– Open Kitchen: Try some of the best Slovenian cuisine at Open Kitchen, the ultimate foodie destination in Ljubljana. This outdoor market brings together local chefs and food vendors, and you can taste a variety of delicious dishes while enjoying live music.

– Druga Violina: This cozy restaurant not only serves up delicious Slovenian dishes, but also employs people with disabilities, creating a unique and inclusive dining experience.

– Gostilna As: Experience fine dining with an innovative twist at Gostilna As, where Chef Luka Košir creates culinary works of art with locally sourced ingredients.

– Lolita: This trendy restaurant has a fantastic view of the Ljubljanica river and serves up delicious Mediterranean and Slovenian cuisine with a modern twist.

Cultural Experiences:

– National Museum of Slovenia: Discover the fascinating history of Slovenia through exhibitions featuring archaeological artifacts, ethnographic items, and art collections at the National Museum of Slovenia.

– Modern Art Gallery: Explore the works of talented Slovenian artists at the Modern Art Gallery, located in the city center and surrounded by lush gardens.

– Metelkova Mesto: This edgy urban district was once a military barracks, but now is a cultural hub filled with squats, graffities, galleries, and alternativne venues that showcase subcultural events, from concerts to art exhibitions.

Local History:

– Plečnik House: This museum-gallery is located in the preserved apartment of renowned Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik. You can see his original works, drawings, plans, and objects, and get a unique view of everyday life in 20th-century Ljubljana.

– City Museum of Ljubljana: Take a stroll through the city’s history at the City Museum of Ljubljana, where you can see artifacts, maps, photographs, and multimedia exhibitions that showcase the city’s past and present.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions:

– Ljubljana Marshes: Explore the natural beauty of the Ljubljana Marshes, a natural reserve featuring walking trails through forests and meadows, birdwatching sites, and even a museum of peat.

– Šmarna Gora: Hikers and adventure seekers will love the breathtaking views from the summit of Šmarna Gora, the hill on the outskirts of Ljubljana. The reward of the climb up the stairs are panoramic views and a chance to enjoy and have a picnic in the fresh mountain air.

– Metlika Wine Region: Take a day trip to the Metlika Wine Region, located in the southern part of Slovenia, where you can taste local wines, enjoy scenic vineyards, and even take a bike tour of the area.

Ljubljana is a charming and welcoming city, offering a mix of history, culture, nature, and cuisine. With so much to see and do, this Slovenian capital will leave you with unforgettable experiences and memories.