Ljubljana Tourism

Ljubljana

Ljubljana, nestled halfway between Vienna and Venice, is a city where diverse historic and cultural influences converge, echoing elements of both these iconic cities. This picturesque town, brimming with romantic allure, boasts an ancient city centre that's easily navigable on foot. The architecture here is profoundly shaped by the renowned Jože Plečnik, whose work has left an indelible mark on his city of birth, much like Gaudí's impact on Barcelona. Ljubljana's landscape is also adorned with medieval, Baroque, and Secessionist touches. The city's most iconic symbol, the dragons of the Dragon Bridge, stand guard over the town.

Ljubljana exudes a laid-back, Mediterranean vibe, evident in the abundance of outdoor cafés, particularly along the Ljubljanica riverbanks, where people gather to unwind and soak in the views. The ancient city centre is a hub of constant activity, offering a rich cultural scene year-round, including numerous events. The warmer months bring free concerts, street performances, and various festivities.

The city's culinary scene is exceptional, blending traditional recipes, locally-sourced organic produce, Mediterranean influences, and modern techniques from local chefs. Slovenian wines, known for their distinct natural flavours, are also a highlight.

Situated at the heart of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a gateway to the country's natural wonders and famous landmarks, such as Lake Bled, Postojna Cave, the Slovenian Alps, the Karst region, and the coast of the Gulf of Trieste — all within easy reach.

Ljubljana Tourism

Do & See

Ljubljana is a picturesque city whose image is the product of various historical periods, though it has been marked most notably by the creations of the architect Jože Plečnik. It is distinguished by Ljubljana Castle located on the hill above the city, the Ljubljanica with its wondrous bridges and romantic banks, as well as testimonials and numerous stories from its rich and abundant past accompanying you with every step.

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Around Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a city where nature is always close at hand. In some areas, a mere 10-minute walk will take you to a forest or a field. The Central Slovenia region, encompassing Ljubljana and 25 smaller municipalities, contains stunning natural beauty, superb cuisine, and scenic landscapes. Step off the beaten path and discover what lies just beyond Ljubljana's doorstep.

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Dining

Ljubljana's culinary scene embraces the use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods, offering a diverse range of dishes. Slovene cuisine blends influences from the Mediterranean, the Balkans, the Alps, and the Pannonian Basin. If you are eager to dive into this diverse culinary landscape, don’t miss the Central Market. With a bit of luck, you might even witness one of the culinary events held outdoors during the warm months.

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Cafés

Relaxing and socialising in the outdoor bars and cafés in Ljubljana's old city centre is one of the city's most unique experiences. Those situated along the picturesque banks of the Ljubljanica are particularly popular.

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Bars & Nightlife

Ljubljana is a lively city with plenty of clubs. Besides the regular ones playing electronic dance music, there are unique venues like Metelkova, known for its alternative scene, and popular Balkan folk parties among the youth. The old city centre is renowned for its laid-back vibe and numerous outdoor bars and cafés. On weekends, some transform into nightclubs, hosting DJ sets, wild parties and dance nights.

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Shopping

Ljubljana offers a wide selection of products by renowned brands as well as local producers. When in the old city centre, don’t forget to visit the Central Market as well as the occasional outdoor fair. The eastern edge of the city is also the location of one of the largest shopping complexes in Europe, BTC City.

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Events

Ljubljana is famous for its year-round lively cultural events. Slovenia boasts extremely creative cultural production, while the city of Ljubljana also often hosts world-famous artists. One of Ljubljana’s specialties is a large number of free open-air events held on the streets and squares of the ancient city centre, especially during summer and the festive month of December.

Ljubljana Tourism

Tourist Information