Ljubljana was a stop on my road trip from Italy to Hungary. Although it’s a European capital, it feels small and welcoming, with a relaxed atmosphere. The riverside restaurants are perfect for a leisurely evening, while the castle offers stunning views. Ljubljana is also a great city to visit with children due to its large pedestian areas. The Slovenian capital isn’t just a stopover: with its well-connected airport serving many European cities, Ljubjana is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.
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Ljubljana, Europe’s Green Capital: Why You Should Visit
Ljubljana is one of Europe’s most charming yet underrated capitals, and its compact size is part of its appeal. Known as the “Green Capital of Europe,” the city stands out for its strong commitment to sustainability. The historic centre is almost entirely pedestrianised. Cycling lanes are everywhere, and public transport is designed with the environment in mind, all while maintaining a focus on urban greenery.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO LJUBLJANA
Enjoy a stress-free visit with the Ljubljana Card, including a guided city tour, river cruise, bike rental, and funicular access to Ljubljana Castle.
Stay connected with the Holafly eSIM and unlimited data, perfect for using maps and sharing photos in real time.
Travel with peace of mind thanks to Heymondo travel insurance, covering medical emergencies and unexpected events, so you can make the most of your Slovenian adventure.
Visiting Ljubljana in a day means exploring a city that blends natural beauty, history, and a relaxed atmosphere. The Slovenian capital is ideal if you’re looking for an authentic destination away from tourist crowds.
The heart of the city is crossed by the Ljubljanica River, lined with restaurants and bars. It’s the perfect area for an aperitif or an evening stroll. The old town, with its pedestrian streets, outdoor cafés, and Baroque and Neoclassical buildings, is a small gem waiting to be discovered.
The city also offers plenty of parks and green spaces, perfect for a leisurely walk or simply to relax outdoors. One attraction you shouldn’t miss is Ljubljana Castle. You can reach the Castle on foot or with the funicular. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with centuries of history and unparalleled panoramic views of the city.
Ljubljana also hosts a lively calendar of events, exhibitions, and festivals that animate the city throughout the year. Finally, you’ll have loads of fun taking photos with the many art installations scattered around town, from the iconic “WOW Ljubljana” sign to the giant deckchairs.
How to Get to Ljubljana: Plane, Car, Bus, and Train
Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is quite easy to reach. You can use a variety of transport options, depending on your preferences and starting point. I visited Ljubljana by car during a road trip from Italy to Hungary, but this is’t the most comfortable choice. Slovenian roads aren’t the best: the motorway has only two lanes and can get congested, while mountain routes offer spectacular scenery but require careful driving. Fortunately, Ljubljana is also well connected by plane, bus, and train, giving you plenty of alternatives.
Getting to Ljubljana by Plane
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU) is around 25 km from the city centre. It serves numerous European destinations, with both low-cost and traditional airlines. Once you land, you can reach the centre by taxi or airport shuttle. If you plan to explore the surrounding areas, rent a car is a good idea.
Getting to Ljubljana by Car
Driving in Slovenia is quite scenic but often challenging. The Slovenian motorway has just two lanes with a speed limit of 110 km/h. Traffic jams are common in case of accidents or peak travel times. Mountain roads are beautiful but tricky, with steep climbs and sharp hairpin bends. Don’t forget that a motorway vignette is mandatory in Slovenia.
Getting to Ljubljana by Bus
Several international bus services connect Ljubljana with major Italian cities and Central Europe. This option is convenient, frequent, and usually budget-friendly. It’s also ideal if you prefer not to drive. Personally, I’m not a fan of long bus journeys, but low-cost coach companies like Flixbus often have great deals.
Getting to Ljubljana by Train
Ljubljana is also connected to the main European cities via rail. Travel times may be longer and sometimes require a change. However, the central station is just a short walk from the city centre, making it a great starting point for exploring. I recommend checking platforms like Omio or Trainline to compare schedules and choose the most convenient route.
What to See in Ljubljana in One Day: Essential Itinerary
I visited Ljubljana during a road trip from Italy to Hungary with my son. I needed a stop halfway and was eager to discover Slovenia’s capital. Ljubljana turned out to be the perfect city to explore in a single day. Its centre is compact and easily walkable and there are a wealth of sights to see, from the stunning Castle to charming squares, Baroque churches, and riverside cafés. Thanks to its small size, you can relax and soak up the local atmosphere while strolling at your own pace.
Ljubljana Castle: Breathtaking Views and Fascinating History
Ljubljana Castle is undoubtedly one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit. Perched on a hill overlooking the historic centre, the Castle offers panoramic views that are simply spectacular.
You can reach the Castle easily via the funicular. It takes you to the top in just a few minutes, saving you the effort of the uphill walk. For us, the funicular was almost a must, given my son’s fascination with this mode of transport. For the descent, however, we chose a pleasant woodland path that leads directly from the Castle back to Ljubljana’s historic centre.
Tickets to Ljubljana Castle Museum start from €17 and there are discounts for children and families. Some tickets include the funicular ride. Inside the Castle, you can explore centuries of Slovenian history, from its medieval defensive role to its modern use as a cultural venue. Within the castle walls, you’ll also find a souvenir shop and a restaurant, all accessible without a ticket. Ljubljana Castle is not just a viewpoint; it’s a true journey through time, to understand the city’s roots and evolution.
Prešeren Square and the Dragon Bridge: Iconic Symbols of Ljubljana
Prešeren Square and the Dragon Bridge are two of Ljubljana’s most representative and evocative sites. They’re both living symbols of the city’s identity and history. The square, dedicated to the national poet France Prešeren, is the city’s vibrant heart. It hosts a stunning Franciscan Church with a characteristic pastel pink facade that creates a harmonious contrast with the surrounding architecture.
Just a short walk from the square is the famous Dragon Bridge. This is one of the most photographed architectural landmarks in Slovenia’s capital. The bridge, in Art Nouveau style, is adorned with four imposing green dragon statues. It’s no coincidence that dragons appear everywhere in Ljubljana, even as souvenirs!
St Nicholas’ Cathedral: Ljubljana’s Baroque Masterpiece
St Nicholas’ Cathedral is one of Ljubljana’s architectural gems. Located in the heart of the old town, it’s the city’s only cathedral. Immediately stands out for its green facade and twin towers, visible from many points across the Slovenian capital.
Stepping inside, you’ll be struck by the richness of detail:, turning frescoes, gilded stuccoes, and a magnificently painted ceiling create an evocative and solemn atmosphere. The light filtering through the stained-glass windows highlights every feature and turns your visit into an unforgettable experience, especially if you love Baroque art and architecture.
Ljubljana Old Town: Pedestrian Streets, Local Shops and Lively Atmosphere
Wandering through the pedestrian streets of Ljubljana’s old town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere of the Slovenian capital. The cobbled lanes, closed to traffic, invite you to stroll at leisure among pastel-coloured buildings.
Every corner tells a story, blending Baroque and Neoclassical architecture. In Ljubljana’s old town you’ll find countless souvenir shops, but also local crafts and culinary specialities. Not to mention the many dragons, the city’s emblem!
Evening Stroll Along the Ljubljanica River: Scenic Spots to Discover
Walking along the Ljubljanica River in the evening is one of the most magical ways to experience Ljubljana. The river flows through the heart of the city, creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere as the lights reflect on the water and historic buildings line its banks.
An evening stroll along the river is perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing, especially if you’re travelling as a couple or with friends. Along the banks, you’ll find numerous bars and restaurants with outdoor seating, ideal for dinner or an aperitif.
Exploring the streets near the river also reveals hidden corners and small squares, where the atmosphere becomes even more intimate. Evening by the Ljubljanica is an unmissable experience, showing the most romantic and authentic side of Ljubljana.
Socialist Architecture Beyond the Old Town
If you venture outside Ljubljana’s Old Town, you can also admire some striking examples of socialist architecture from the Yugoslav era. One of the most notable spots is Republic Square. Its austere, linear buildings reflect the functionalist aesthetic typical of that period.
Wandering through these areas gives you a different perspective of the city. There, recent history blends with the daily life of residents, creating surprising contrasts with the Baroque and Neoclassical charm of the Old Town.
Practical Tips for Visiting Ljubljana in One Day: Timings, Tickets, and Transport
You can comfortably explore Ljubljana in a single day. The Old Town is compact and easy to navigate on foot. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy your stroll.
The funicular to Ljubljana Castle runs according to the castle’s opening hours. A return ticket costs €6 and can be purchased directly at the station, with queues typically moving quickly.
Alternatively, you can buy just a one-way ticket for €3.30 and return to the city walking down the scenic path through the woods. It takes around 20 minutes. We chose this option and really enjoyed the walk through the forested trail.
During our visit, we focused mainly on the Castle, which also offers a child-friendly trail guided by a charming little mouse. If you’re interested in visiting specific museums, always check the official websites for updated opening hours. Most museums and attractions in the Old Town open around 10:00 and close around 18:00.
Ljubljana has an efficient bus system, though we didn’t use it since the Old Town is easy to explore on foot. If you arrive by car, be careful: parking is limited and often paid, even outside the centre. I personally got a fine because I was told the parking was free, but it was actually regulated by a time disc.
Finally, if you plan to visit multiple attractions, consider getting the Ljubljana Card. This tourist pass includes a guided city tour, a boat ride, bike rental, and access to the funicular to Ljubljana Castle. It’s a great way to save time and money while enjoying the city’s extensive cycling paths.
Where to Eat in Ljubljana: Restaurants and Cafés Along the River
Ljubljana offers a wide variety of restaurants and cafés to suit every taste, making your visit even more authentic. In the Old Town, you’ll find cosy spots where you can enjoy traditional Slovenian dishes alongside modern and international cuisine.
In the evening, I recommend dining along the river. The relaxed atmosphere and the scenic views create a truly special experience. Keep in mind, though, that outside the main tourist areas, many restaurants close relatively early, so it’s best to plan ahead.
From my experience, restaurant reviews, as well as hotel descriptions, aren’t always reliable in Ljubljana. I suggest trusting your own instincts more than what you read on Google Maps or Tripadvisor.
Where to Stay in Ljubljana: Hotels, Boutique Stays, and Hostels
Ljubljana offers a wide range of accommodation for every type of traveller, from boutique hotels and bed & breakfasts to cosy hostels. Most of the best-located and most comfortable options are in the Old Town, perfect for exploring on foot and fully enjoying the city’s charming atmosphere.
However, Ljubljana isn’t as cheap as you might expect. To secure a place that suits your needs without overspending, I strongly recommend booking in advance, especially during the high season.
I personally had a bad experience booking a private room in a historic villa converted into a hostel on Hostelworld. The listing made it seem like a classic boutique hostel not to be missed: a villa in the diplomatic quarter, full of original decorations and a century of history reflecting Ljubljana’s soul, but with modern amenities. In reality, the property was dirty, rundown, and under renovation! Vila Veselova is best avoided despite its prime location; don’t be misled by the description. Luckily, more negative reviews are now helping warn other travellers.
Don’t let my experience put you off. If you prefer a boutique-style stay, Ljubljana has really lovely and clean options, such as the charming Bloom Hotel. Other reliable choices include well-equipped hotels like Exe Lev or the fantastic Vander Urbani Resort, which even has a swimming pool.
Conclusion: Why Ljubljana Is the Perfect Destination for a Day Trip or Weekend
Ljubljana is an ideal destination even for a short visit thanks to its compact Old Town. In just a few hours, you can explore historic landmarks, enjoy stunning views, and get a taste of the local cuisine. The city’s rich cultural scene and welcoming atmosphere will charm you, whether you’re on a quick day trip or a longer journey. Share in the comments if you’ve already visited Ljubljana and what stayed in your heart.
