Honestly, I knew nothing about Ljubljana until just a few weeks out from my trip. I am so glad I was able to visit because this city is worth a visit. Since the city is pretty small and very walkable, I wouldn’t suggest more than 2 days here. You definitely should spend more time in Slovenia than that but I think more days should be spent in other areas like Lake Bled.

Ljubljana was one of the cutest and most quaint places to visit. It has a really small town vibe because it is a small town. I’ve listed some activities below that will allow you get the best out of your trip:

EAT AND PEOPLE WATCH ALONG THE LJUBLJANICA RIVER

One of my favorite things to do anywhere is to people watch. Ljubljana is the perfect place for this. Restaurants and cafes line the Ljubljanica River, so you can enjoy a meal while taking in a beautiful view of the river and passerby’s.

Although when we were searching for a place to eat dinner, we ended up on one of the side streets. Funny story, we walked by a restaurant cooking fresh mussels on the street and kept wandering thinking we’d find another one like it. Moral of the story, when you smell something that good just stop to eat there instead of walking an extra 20 minutes trying to find said location again.

HIKE UP TO LJUBLJANA CASTLE

Well, you don’t necessarily have to hike or walk up to this castle on the hill. There is a very convenient funicular that will take you up in a tram. This option is particularly awesome when you’re in a rush to watch the sunset from the castle on the hill while playing Ed Sheeran’s Castle on the Hill song. Yes, that is a true story.

I didn’t even know what a funicular was before this. Have you heard of a funicular before? It’s just a cable car. This one was great because it was only 4 euro for a round-trip ticket.

EXPERIENCE LJUBLJANA’S OWN WEATHER

Yes, this sounds strange - I wasn’t sure what to make of it myself. In front of the pink church, aka the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, is a rain installation. Not exactly sure what the point of it is, but when it’s a hot day out, this sure is a nice way to cool down.

SHOP THE CENTRAL MARKET

Just along the Ljubljanica River is the Central Market. You can find everything here from groceries and fresh produce to the knick knacks and souvenirs you want to take home. The goods are usually hand made. The market is open everyday but Sunday.

There is also really wonderful shopping while strolling through the streets around the central part of Ljubljana. My favorite one was called Gud and I literally wanted everything in it.

STROLL TIVOLI PARK

Slovenia is incredibly green. Ljubljana is no exception to that. If you’re feeling up for a nature walk away from the little city head to Tivoli Park. There are tons of fountains and playgrounds and of course beautiful views.

ADMIRE THE STREET ART AT METELKOVA

If you’re into street art, this is the place for you to visit while in Ljubljana. These old army barracks have basically become squatting grounds and an expression of art. There are murals and art everywhere.

Honestly, I was a bit creeped out here, so this is a cautious warning. I don’t know if this was the case, but I didn’t necessarily feel safe here. The people are a bit sketch and there are signs to not take photos of the people.

On the other hand, there is some cool artwork here, so really it is worth a visit. The residents are actively painting and creating a daily basis which means you could see completely different art than I did. Pretty cool thinking about that, right?

STAND ON THE TRIPLE BRIDGE

One of the cool things in Ljubljana is the Triple Bridge. It really is 3 sections that make up one bridge. The middle one is mostly used for car traffic, while the other two are more narrow for walking. The bridge is located just in front of the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation and Presernov Plaza.

Hope this guide convinces you to travel to this cute town or helps you find out what to do while here.

Yours Truly // Shannon

A Guide to Visiting Ljubljana