Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia and the country’s largest city, is surprisingly compact compared to other European capitals. The small stature it has is more than compensated for by the enticing, sophisticated, and hip vibe it exudes. The city consistently receives high marks as one of the continent’s best places to call home.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Ljubljana
Many charming eateries may be found tucked into the verdant banks of the Ljubljanica river, which winds its way through the city.
The historic district of Old Town is filled with beautiful architecture and fascinating sites. There are also many wonderful parks, museums, and galleries to visit.
As there are so many students living there, there is also a vibrant bar and club scene. Ljubljana is a great destination for a weekend trip, even if it lacks any truly iconic landmarks.
1. Gornji Trg
Gornji Trg is a little square in the Old Town that appears quite attractive and charming because to its cobblestones and appealing outdoor patios. ‘Upper Square,’ as it’s known in English, is surrounded by magnificent mediaeval structures and is home to the somewhat unremarkable Church of St. Florian, which was constructed in 1672.
This charming area of Ljubljana is full of hidden gems, from gardens to cocktail bars to a little art gallery, not to mention a slew of excellent dining options.
2. Franciscan Church
The Franciscan Church of the Annunciation on Preseren Square is the unmistakable red and white centrepiece of the square. The enormous edifice, constructed between 1646 and 1660 and recently painted a bright salmon pink, is located close to the banks of the Ljubljanica river.
The church is one of the most significant in the city, thus it has a luxurious interior to match its magnificent Baroque exterior. One notable example is the altarpiece, which dates back to the 18th century; another is the superb ceiling frescoes, which were repainted in the 1930s after being destroyed in an earthquake. It’s worth stopping by on your way to or from other city attractions because of how conveniently located it is.
3. Central Market
The Central Market is a lively destination that can be found on the Ljubljanica riverbank between the Dragon Bridge and the Butchers’ Bridge. The outdoor market is a veritable cornucopia of booths and kiosks, some selling fresh produce and others offering cured meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
It is open every day save Sunday, making it a convenient spot to pick up some souvenirs, many of which are handmade by local artisans. In addition to taking in the vibrant scene, you may recharge with tasty refreshments at one of the many stands.
4. Metelkova
The Metelkova City Autonomous Cultural Center was formerly a military headquarters for the Austro-Hungarian and Yugoslav armies but has been occupied by squatters for well over two decades at this point.
Bars and nightclubs have replaced the rigid barracks, and underground artists have decorated every available surface with graffiti and paintings, completely transforming the region.
Metelkova has long been a tourist destination due to its striking resemblance to Christiania in Copenhagen, and as a result, several galleries and boutiques have opened there. Metelkova is home to some of the city’s best nightlife, and its unconventional and anarchistic lifestyle may not be for everyone.
5. Dragon Bridge
Zmajski Most, also known as Dragon Bridge in English, spans the Ljublanica river and is the most well-known bridge in the city due to the four ferocious-looking dragons that sit on either end of it. The miniature dragons, which were designed after the city’s coat of arms, are a popular photo opportunity for visitors.
The bridge itself may not appear like much, but the technological advances it represented when it was built in 1901 made it a huge success. It was one of the earliest reinforced concrete bridges and boasted one of the largest arches of its day.
The city of Ljubljana has come to be known for its spectacular dragon statues. You’ll probably cross this bridge, which is built in the Vienna Secessionist style and is widely regarded as the nicest in the area, at least once during your visit.
6. Cathedral of St. Nicholas
The Cathedral of St. Nicholas is one of the most identifiable landmarks in Ljubljana, thanks to its unique green dome and twin belfries that can be seen rising above the city’s rooftops. Once a site for Gothic and Romanesque structures, the current cathedral dates to 1707 and now boasts some great examples of Baroque architecture.
The interior, however, is where all the attention should be focused, thanks to the beautiful frescoes by Giulio Quaglio and the painted dome by Matevz Langus. The Cathedral of St. Nicholas is an architectural masterpiece, complete with beautiful stuccoes and sculptures and epic scenes reflecting the history of the church in Slovenia.
7. Tivoli Park
Tivoli, located to the west of the city centre, is Ljubljana’s largest park and covers a considerable area. It’s a tranquil spot to stroll, with lots of gorgeous nature on display among the neatly groomed gardens and the stunning Botanical Gardens.
Some areas are well-kept and neatly landscaped, while others are more natural and undeveloped, with pathways snaking through the woods and past the sports fields.
Cekin Mansion and Tivoli Castle are two of the most impressive structures in the park; the former once housed the Contemporary History Museum but is now a museum of their own. Tivoli Park is a favourite among both locals and visitors seeking a taste of nature without leaving the city.
8. Presernov Trg
Presernov Trg, Ljubljana’s central square, is surrounded by stunning structures that showcase an amazing variety of architectural styles. Festivals and other cultural events in the city tend to take place here.
The large square is named after Slovenia’s national poet, France Preseren, and features a bronze statue of the poet at one end. To the south, the square is surrounded by the Ljubljanica river.
In addition to the stunning Baroque Church of the Annunciation, visitors may also admire the elegant halls and palaces built in the Vienna Secessionist style and the spectacular Triple Bridge.
9. Triple Bridge
To get from Preseren Square to the Old Town, you have to cross the Ljubljanica River, and the Triple Bridge is actually three separate bridges. The architect Joze Plecnik created these parallel bridges, which he adorned with charming stone balustrades that are attractively illuminated by soft lights at night.
The odd clustering of the three bridges is the result of the addition of two pedestrian bridges in 1930 to supplement the main bridge, which was originally designed only for vehicular traffic. In any event, if you visit Ljubljana, you should check out Triple Bridge. It takes stunning pictures because to its elegant design.
10. Old Town
The Old Town of Ljubljana is a popular tourist destination because of its convenient location between the city’s iconic castle and the rushing Ljubljanica River. Despite its compact size, the town is filled with winding cobblestone streets, secret passages, and beautifully maintained mediaeval architecture around every corner.
The picturesque Robba Fountain, one of the icons of the city, and the historic Town Hall, which dates back to the 15th century may both be found in and near Mestni Trg.
Several of the Old Town’s brightly painted buildings house cafes, restaurants, bars, and stores, while nearby attractions include the Church of St. Nicholas and the Central Market. It has a charming, unhurried ambiance, perfect for spending a few days exploring all it has to offer.
