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. Ljubljana is a city worth a visit.
Hotels in Ljubljana
As is the case with any capital city, Ljubljana has a full range of hotel options to meet any budget. The Grand Hotel Union Executive is the top end. An ideal location in the center of town, full amenities, plush accommodations, and exquisite service are what the 200 euros per night in a double room pay for.
Less expensive but still very nice is the Premier Slon (part of the Best Western chain of hotels). On the site of Ljubljana’s oldest hotel, the Slon is fully modern and probably the best value for 150 euros (double room). They even offer a choice of pillow. There is a topless cabaret bar in the basement.
Finally, about a ten minute walk from the first two hotels, is Hotel Park. The cold-looking high rise building in a residential neighborhood is misleading. The rooms are clean, service is friendly and efficient, and at 90 euros for a double, the price is right.
Restaurants in Ljubljana
Since it is a capital city and the seat of Slovenia’s government, Ljubljana offers a staggering variety of restaurants. The variety is in cuisine, quality, and price. 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, climb up to Ljubljana Castle and dine in Gostlina na Gradu. Quite new, and opened with great fanfare, the look is upscale but the prices are very reasonable. Award-winning chef’s offer perfectly prepared dishes in a unique and romantic location.
Museums in Ljubljana
Check with the Tourist Information Center for special passes on all of Ljubljana’s museums and sites (plus public transportation). As a minimum, a visit should include a stop in the Slovenian National Museum. Appropriately the oldest museum in the country, the elegant Renaissance buildings are interesting enough. But the exhibits are simply breathtaking.
Alternatively, the Ethnographic Museum, situated in a modern venue not far from the Hotel Park is billed as “about people and for people.” Permanent and temporary exhibits link Slovenian culture and history to that of the rest of the world. It is fascinating.
Wine Bars
Slovenian wine is gaining great respect around the world. Quality and value are already compared to most European producers. Try the product yourself at one of Ljubljana’s many wine bars. The best are Dvorni Bar and eVino. Dvorni is in the center of downtown, a half block off the river. It is very popular, so arriving early is a good idea. The second, eVino, 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.
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.
Join the Conversation