ADVENTURE GUIDE : A WEEKEND IN LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA
Originally Published 4 September 2019
A view over Ljubljana from the Skyscraper Cafe
Awaiting just a short 2 hour flight from London is Ljubljana; the capital of Slovenia and a perfect weekend city break for any season. As this was our first trip to Slovenia we didn’t really have any idea of what to expect from this pint sized European capital, but we were pleasantly surprised by its Old Town and easy cafe culture.
Pronounced “lyoo-BLYAH-nuh”, this pretty city is currently transitioning from an under-the-radar destination to a tourist hot spot. And its no wonder why- recently voted one of the greenest and most livable cities in Europe, we loved how the walkable old town centred around the river and exuded a laid back vibe. We found the architecture reminded us of a mix between Swiss and Austrian villages and Amsterdam (especially as we spent our time dodging hundreds of bikes!) but with an Eastern European twist.
A touch of Amsterdam
GETTING THERE
We flew Easyjet from Stansted Airport, and on arrival hopped straight into a mini bus shuttle to the city. We chose the company “Nomago” as it was literally the first sign we saw as we exited the terminal, but you can also book ahead online through a range of other companies (including Go Opti or FlixBus for around the same price). We paid €10 each and were delivered to our hotel door in about half an hour. There’s also the option of a local bus (approx €5pp, 50mins) or Taxi (approx €40, 30mins) or hiring a car, but it would be useless for exploring the car-free Old Town!
WHERE TO STAY
We checked-in to the modern, four star Hotel Lev. We choose the hotel as an affordable option at the edge of the Old Town. Although there wasn’t anything particularly special about the hotel, it was clean and safe, and located in easy walking distance to the main sights. Plus the breakfast spread was tasty and we found the bed to be super comfortable!
If we were to stay again we might look at booking ahead with an AirBnB or perhaps The Intercontinental or The Lesar Hotel Angel . (Although we’re sure any hotels within the Old Town would serve as a great base.)
A city of bikes
Pastel streets
WHAT TO DO
As we were in town to relax and celebrate Simon’s birthday, the draw of Ljubljana was that there wasn’t an endless list of “Must dos”. This city really is one of those spots where you can choose to fill your days with the sights or just sit back and unwind without feeling like you’re missing out on too much. Below is a list of suggested time fillers:
Explore the Old Town - There are plenty of lovely side streets to get lost in and lots of cafes and shops to keep you busy
Visit Ljubljana Castle - Perched over the town for the last 900 years, you can reach the top via a funicular (costs €13pp)
Walk around Park Tivoli - A sprawling green space that is worth dedicating a lazy afternoon to.
See the famous bridges of Ljubljana - The Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge are some of the most popular spots in the city so be prepared for crowds in the peak seasons
Visit the Central Market - Designed by famous Slovenian Architect Jože Plečnik in the early 1930s, the covered market can be found between the Triple Bridge and Dragon bridge in the Old Town. There’s also farmer’s market here everyday, except Sunday, and nearby in the other market squares, we found everything from basket bags, flowers and street food stalls to fresh fruit and souvenirs.
Visit Ljubljana Cathedral - St. Nicholas's Church is an intricately built Cathedral dating back to the 13th Century (costs €2pp to enter)
See the View from Nebotičnik (The Skyscraper building) - When this was built in the 1930s it was Europes tallest residential tower and affords the best views over the historic centre
Take a River Cruise - The perfect way to take in the city while resting your feet
People watch at one of the many cafes and bars along the river edge
Sip on some Slovenian wine - you won’t be disappointed by the price or taste
Take a Day trip - If you have more than a couple of days in Ljubljana, definitely consider a day trip! Somewhere like Lake Bled or Lake Bohinj would work perfectly.
Basket shoppers heaven at the local market
The Greenhouse at Tivoli Park
WHERE TO EAT
Le Petite Cafe -We had a really delicious breakfast here
Cafe Juljia -and and even more memorable dinner here
Nebotičnik Cafe- definitely our favourite culinary experience of the trip was the truffle honey served on the cheese platter at Nebotičnik, which is located on top of the skyscraper builder.
The Central Market - also provided some great snack options including Belgian waffles from the Gelateria Romantika stall
Also take a look at: Cafe TOZD, Bazilika Cafe, Osha Asian Bistro, Dabuda, Joe Penas (mexican), Monstera and Perkana Osem (bakery)
The cafe-culture was alive and thriving during our Summer visit
Let us know your favourite parts of Slovenia so we can add them to our travel list!
-Simon and Jen
