Some have called Ljubljana the most beautiful city in the world. That might be an overstatement, but its name translates to “lovely,” and that much is certainly true. It is small enough that the city center can be comfortably explored on foot. At the same time, it is big enough to offer a wide selection of museums, restaurants, and hotel options.
Getting Started in Ljubljana
Stop by the Tourist Information Center near the famous Triple Bridge in the center of town. It’s open every day and is the right place to set up sightseeing tours, available in abundance. Visitors can explore Ljubljana on foot, by boat, by bike, even by hot air balloon.
A good place to stay is the Park Hotel. Nestled in a quiet residential spot, this very reasonable hotel is just five minutes walk from the city center. More luxurious is the historic Grand Hotel Union, just one block off of Ljubljana’s cultural center, Presernov Square. Less expensive but still very nice is the Premier Slon (part of the Best Western chain of hotels).
Three Days of Sightseeing
Don't miss Presernov Square. Ljubljana’s central square, named for Slovenia's greatest poet, France Preseren, is where six main streets converge at the Triple Bridge. Small and intimate, this bustling spot is where you go to see and be seen.
Walk across the Dragon Bridge. Four bronze monsters guarding the corners of the span celebrate the legend of Ljubljana’s creation. Local folklore says when a virgin walks across the bridge the dragons wag their tails.
The impressive Medieval Castle gives a superb sweeping view of the skyline, past the plains to alpine peaks. Back down the hill from the castle, be sure to visit the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, a treasure of Baroque architecture. Around the corner, find Ljubljana’s most distinguishing feature; the daily outdoor market along the Ljubljanica River. Fresh fruits and vegetables, kitchen gadgets, furniture, housewares, flowers, crafts, honey, soaps; name it and you can find it at this sprawling, energetic market. On Sundays, the emphasis is antiques.
Three Days of Dining and Drinking
Enjoy bar and bistro choices along the river and in the medieval section of town. Most spots are cozy with only a handful of tables inside. Outside seating proffers a full view of the parade of humanity.
The best and most crowded is Karnava Plocnik, at the south end of Presernov Square. Good drinks, live music and front row seating to watch the passers-by. Café Romeo offers a satisfying variety of light fare and full meals. Sandwiches, crepes, and huge salads are complemented by an impressive drink menu. The pleasant setting is just off Cobblers Bridge.
Restaurants in Ljubljana
Ljubljana offers a staggering variety of restaurants. Shambala offers superb Asian food at a very reasonable price. The sun room is exquisite. In the front, a bar with an impressive wine selection is a great place to stop before (and after) eating.
In this part of Europe it is difficult to find a quality vegetarian restaurant, but Ajdovo Zmo fits the bill. Tucked into a cute courtyard off a bustling pedestrian street downtown, the colorful and lively ambiance and casual setting belie the quality of fare.
For traditional Slovenian food, make your way back up to Ljubljana Castle and try Gostlina na Gradu, where the look is upscale but the prices are reasonable. An alternative for excellent and hearty Slovenian fare is Gostlina Sokol.
Wine Bars
Slovenian wine is gaining respect around the world. Try some at one of Ljubljana’s many wine bars. The best are Dvorni Bar and e-Vino. Dvorni is in the center of downtown, a half block off the river. It is very popular, so get there early. E-Vino is near the city main shopping district (called BTC). Smaller and more intimate, the selection here is superb, tastings are offered, and bottles can be purchased to take away.
Three Days Just for Fun
The annual Ljubljana Jazz Festival runs every summer, featuring top acts from around the world.
Bring the kids; the city Puppet Theater has daily performances. The House of Children and Art has displays, performances and workshops children will love.
Like movies? The Kolosej Cinema at BTC Commercial Park on the east end of the city is a dream come true. They screen all movies in original language (and show mostly American films). The monstrous speaker systems, comfortable seats, and cheap tickets (about 4 Euro for first run features) make movie-watching a pleasure.
After trying those basics during a weekend visit to Ljubljana, the only sensible reaction will be to plan a return trip.
James Sajo - Jim Sajo is a freelance writer living in Northern Italy. Follow him on Facebook at Jim Sajo The Writer.
