A true jewel in the Balkan crown, Ljubljana’s compact size encompasses a wealth of gorgeous architecture, art and history. Pedestrians and cyclists meander along the Ljubljanica River, which flows through the heart of the city. In the summer time, Ljubljana comes to life with a vibrant street scene of outdoor cafes and cultural events.
Ljubljana’s graceful bridges and architectural whimsy, culminate in the elegant Ljubljana castle, which dates back to the Celts. Ride the funicular that starts at the Old Town and goes all the way up to the castle. Explore the narrow cobblestoned streets of the Old Town which open up onto graceful squares. Pause at the Central Market to sample some of Ljubljana’s local delicacies before heading towards the magnificent Dragon Bridge. For a city of its size, Ljubljana has a large student population and there’s plenty to do in the evenings. Step out on the town in this charming city with Exeter International.
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Anytime between April and October is a good time to visit. Weather is mild during spring and fall, and even though it can get a bit warmer during July and August, the close proximity to the Julian Alps and the glacier lake area provides a nice break from the city during the summer.
We suggest you spend a couple of nights in Ljubljana, allowing time to visit the Old Town, the Castle overlooking the city, and some of the museums, such as the Modern Art Museum and the National Gallery.
Ljubljana is also a great base to visit other places in the country like Bled Lake, Julian Alps, Maribor, Goriska Brda wine or the Adriatic coast with the towns of Piran and Koper, all of them located between 40 minutes and one hour away from the capital.
Slovenia is great destination for self-drive programs, due to the easy accessibility as well as the short distances required to travel through the country. There are plenty of sites to explore during drives, like for example, the caves of Postojna and Skocjan on the transfer between Ljubljana and the coast.
One of the highlights when in Ljubljana is to visit the local market during the morning hours, when locals gather to buy produce, fish, meat, and local crafts. After wandering through the stalls, head to the pedestrian area and sit at one of the busy terraces to enjoy a coffee, the local pastime!
To enjoy the best the restaurant scene in the city has to offer, try JB Restaurant, which showcases the best of Slovenian Cuisine. All the dishes are inspired by the elements – Earth, Water, Air and Fire, which translates to sweet, salty, sour and bitter.
If you visit Ljubljana, you should plan on taking Prešeren Figs back home with you. The dried fruit is dipped in dark and white chocolate and honors the local poet France Prešeren, who used to carry them on his pockets and give them to children.
