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LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA – This is a “tongue twister”, Lju-blja-na,  capital of Slovenia the country’s symbolic and virtually literal core. The “Dragon City” is named after the famous dragon statues and dragon bridge, symbols of strength, courage, and greatness. These symbols can be found everywhere in Ljubljana, from monuments to coats of arms.

History of Ljubljana

In 2014, Ljubljana commemorated the 2000th anniversary of the founding of Emona, a Roman colony whose ruins can be located beneath the city. According to local tradition, Ljubljana’s beginnings date back much farther, to the turn of the first millennium B.C. when Jason and his Argonauts passed through here. Despite historical accuracy, the legend lives on through the dragons that adorn bridges, flags, and more.

Population in Ljubljana

Today, Ljubljana has a quaint and well-kept medieval Old Town in the center, with more modern neighborhoods stretching in all directions. While around 280,000 residents officially call the city home, its population is said to swell to well over half a million on any weekday. It is the workers and students who commute daily. Thanks to this massive influx, Ljubljana has a vibrancy and a lively atmosphere that many larger cities envy.

Reasons to visit Ljubljana

With three times the population of any other Slovenian city Ljubljana has a higher share in trade, administration, culture, and education. Countless cultural events take place daily. At the same time, Ljubljana manages to be one of the safest and cleanest cities in Europe and was even named European Green Capital in 2016.

Add to it the fact that the city is only a 20-minute drive from the Alpine ski resorts and 45 minutes from the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s clear why Ljubljana has gotten so much attention in recent years.

Places of interest in Ljubljana

The spectacular architecture, historic buildings, magnificent bridges, and lush nature are the highlights of Ljubljana’s city center. The country’s capital looks like something out of a fairytale! Ljubljana’s pedestrian-only Old City, with its magnificent architecture and café-lined cobblestone walkways, is home to Ljubljana’s greatest attractions.

Dragon Bridge

Since its inception in 1901, the Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge) has competed fiercely with the castle and the brilliantly pink Franciscan Church for the title of Ljubljana’s most photographed sight.

During the day, there are always a few tourists taking pictures of one of the four big dragons protecting the bridge or the smaller griffins that serve as bases for the bridge’s eight lamp posts.

Recently, some amateur artists have thought the mythical creatures lacked color and decided to add a touch of red to their mouths and claws. The jury is still out on whether this is an improvement, but it amuses us as the travellers walk by.

France Presern Statue

Slovene national poet France Presern (1800-1849) stands in the square at the Triple Bridge, which was named after him. In addition to being an interesting visual treat, the monument is also a popular meeting place in the city.

Erected in 1905, the large monolith is the work of architect Maks Fabiani and sculptor Ivan Zajc and depicts the Muse of Poetry holding a small laurel wreath above the poet’s head. Excerpts from his works are carved into the base.

Presern Square

It was the junction of several streets leading from one of the old entrance gates to the city and became a public square after Ljubljana’s defensive walls were demolished in the mid-19th century. It is one of the city’s landmarks, named after Slovenia’s national poet, France Presern.

It is both a popular meeting place and a venue for concerts and events during the summer.

This charming little square is surrounded by a number of interesting sights, such as the magnificent Art Nouveau façade of the Urbanc House, an extraordinary piece of early 20th-century extravagance, and the fashionable Emporium Gallery next door.

Ljubljana Castle

Perched atop Castle Hill, it dominates the cityscape. The majestic Ljubljana Castle is built on the foundations of many medieval defensive constructions in a steep area that stretches to the southern edge of the Old Town.

The current ensemble is the result of 16 th-century restoration efforts following the 1511 earthquake, with various later additions. Ljubljana Castle, like Wawel Castle in Kraków, Poland, has been used as both a royal home and a military barracks throughout history.

Castle Tour introduction

A 12-minute film in English, German, Italian, Spanish, French, Russian, Croatian, and Slovenian shows the virtual castle tour in the tower. It portrays the castle’s fascinating and enlightening past. 

On the same floor, there is a little entrance that leads up to the top of the tower by around 100 red cast-iron steps, each of which is decorated with an image of the tower and the city dragon.

 A door at the top opens to a tiny viewing platform with stunning views of the city.  The modest St. George’s Chapel, one of the castle’s earliest elements dating back to 1489, is hidden beneath the tower, accessible only through a door in the courtyard corner.

It is dedicated to the patron saint of Ljubljana. In 1747, it was restored in the Baroque style and embellished with over 60 kings’ coats of arms. A permanent exhibition on Slovenian history is now available to tourists. The castle also has a small art gallery with temporary exhibitions, a café, restaurants, and a gift shop. The Puppetry Museum is one of the city’s most underappreciated museums.

The castle is also a favorite choice for local weddings. During the summer, there are concerts in the castle courtyard, and in July, there is a popular outdoor cinema. Visitors can aproach the castle through several short roads leading up from the Old Town. An alternative is the funicular located near the puppet theater and open-air market.

Tivoli Park

Founded in 1813 as a place for the general health and recreation of the city’s population. This Ljubljana’s gigantic green lung stretches at approximately five square kilometers.

It’s easily visible from the city center and almost worth a visit to the Slovenian capital in itself.

Tivoli Park is set amidst rolling hills and is a pleasant mix of lawns, pastures, wooded areas, and fun adventure playgrounds for children.

The park is best explored by bicycle. Bicycles can be rented from a variety of sites throughout the summer. You will need to leave an ID as a guarantee. So bring the bike back.

In addition to its reputation as a natural paradise, Tivoli Park has a number of cultural attractions. That includes the International Centre for Graphic Arts in the beautiful first century Tivoli Palace and the Museum of Modern History. The quiet Ljubljana Zoo is located to the southwest of the park, within a designated natural reserve. Also, take note of the Primoz Trubar statue near the park’s entrance.

The Triple Bridge

Perhaps Ljubljana’s most distinctive feature, the Triple Bridge, is the curious fusion of a 19th-century road bridge, which replaced a medieval wooden bridge, combined with two pedestrian bridges from the 1930s. Designed by Joze Plecnik, it was used to enhance the entire ensemble with lamps and stone railings.

Krizanke

In a city full of Joze Plecnik’s fine architects, this last major contribution to Ljubljana is certainly one of his finest. Designed specifically for the Ljubljana Festival in the 1950s, it is located in the courtyard of the former Holy Cross Monastery. Krizanke is an open-air amphitheater-style venue, simply breathtaking. There’s no better setting for summer entertainment in the entire city, either for theater or concerts.

National Museum of Contemporary History

If you need a reason to visit Tivoli Park, here it is.

This fascinating museum, housed in a beautiful 18th-century mansion, presents the history of Slovenia from the time around the outbreak of World War I to the Slovenian presidency of the EU in 2008. With well-presented exhibits, including old photographs, clothing, and household items, the museum traces the nation’s winding path between the two world wars and the difficult, fascinating post-war communist years.

The building itself is worth seeing, a wonderful combination of original baroque and the modernist design by Slovenian architect Jurij Kobe, dating from 1991.

City Museum

A superb museum led by a team of historians who know how to depict Ljubljana in both permanent and temporary displays, highlighting both its positive and negative aspects throughout history. It is the greatest site in the city to get a crash lesson in city history. There are scale replicas of incomplete Plecnik designs, extravagant costumes, antique photographs, and much more. Check its fantastic website for forthcoming exhibitions: mgml.si.

Skip-the-Line with Ljubljana Card and Ljubljana’s best stuff for 24, 48 or 72 hours including public transport!

– From €47.00 Included:

• Admission to more than 20 museums and galleries, the Ljubljana Zoo and many other attractions
• Free guided city tour
• Unlimited travel on city buses during the card validity period (24, 48 or 72 hours)
• 24-hour access to WiFree Ljubljana, the city’s wireless internet network
• Funicular to Ljubljana Castle and entrance to the castle, a boat cruise, and a 4-hour bicycle hire
• Free internet access at the Ljubljana Tourist Information Center

Ljubljana Opera and Ballet

Slovenian opera has been around since 1732, but the current National Opera and Ballet Theatre was erected in the late nineteenth century. It was designed in the Neo-Renaissance style by Czech architects and stands between the Slovenian Parliament and the National Gallery, but this hasn’t stopped it from becoming one of the country’s most famous structures. Its stage hosts a diverse range of classic and modern operas, ballets, and concerts.

Things to do in Ljubljana

Tasting local Brandies at Destillery Bar Aura

Get to know the life and deeds of Slovenian ancestors, the customs of the people and the crafts of the climate. Taste the original aromas of a conquering tradition. Treat yourself from the smallest menu in the world and with premium Slovenian brandies, liquors and gins at the distillery bar in Aura Hum. Location: Pod Tranco 1, Ljubljana

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Eating Pizza in Pop`s Pizza & Sport
One of the town’s oldest pizzerias is only a short distance from the Krizanke Theatre. Pizzeria Foculus serves 66 different types of pizzas prepared in a large wood-fired bread oven, ranging from classic pizzas to vegetarian, vegan, and even gluten-free pizzas. In addition to pizzas, they have a large assortment of salads, with 14 different options. Location: Gregorciceva ulica 3, Ljubljana

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A relaxing coffee brake at Neubar
An urban retreat where elegant modern design meets the rhythm of the metropolis. Their energetic hospitality team is ready to transport you to a world of cosmopolitan charm and contemporary elegance. From morning coffee to late cocktails, or a fantastic brunch in between, Neubar Team caters to both sophisticated travelers and local trendsetters. Location: Kolodvorska ulica 6a, Ljubljana

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Shopping in Extraordinary Concept Store

The Extraordinary concept shop emerged from a desire to bring together a variety of ecologically minded brands in Ljubljana in one location. They are dedicated to creating trendy and sustainably designed brands by using raw materials and procedures that have a low environmental impact. Location: Novi trg 6, Ljubljana

Around Ljubljana

As Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana is clearly the epicenter of all things Slovenia. The area surrounding the capital consists of 25 municipalities, and within these 25, there is a dizzying variety of different landscapes and opportunities.

A short drive from the center of the capital, you’ll quickly find yourself surrounded by mountain ranges, swamps, karst fields, rivers, lakes, plains, the Ljubljana Basin, and much more.

It’s this area that truly embodies what makes Slovenia one of Europe’s best travel destinations. The phrase “something for everyone” has been greatly overused, but for the Ljubljana region, it must be applied with full conviction.

Ljubljana is a great place for nature lovers of all ages and with a variety of interests. Those looking for a challenge will find it here on the many hiking and biking trails in the area’s mountains and hills. If all this sounds too strenuous, there are also recreational activities such as golf and fishing. Anglers in particular will find a variety of fish waiting to be caught. So don’t hesitate to venture out of the capital and find something unusual.

Kamnik – A Medieval Treasure in the Alpine Foothills

In a country like Slovenia, which boasts charming villages, elegant squares, and some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, the word “beautiful” can easily be overused.

However, when speaking of Kamnik, a medieval town about 23 km northeast of Ljubljana, it’s almost impossible to avoid the word and its synonyms. Nestled in an area of diverse landscape with sharp mountain peaks and densely forested valleys, the medieval town center presents its undeniable charm.

Location of Kamnik

The town’s rich history and prosperity are reflected in its various (and well-preserved) architecture.  Kamnik is a city with tiled rooftops and tiny, twisting alleyways, surrounded by rugged Alpine mountains.  Kamnik is situated close to the Kamniska Bistrica River, castle remains, and church towers within natural countryside. 

Kamnik tourist attractions

Kamnik may be explored on foot in a couple of hours.  It’s ideal for a day excursion from Ljubljana.  The surrounding area warrants a longer stay.  The guesthouses and hotels in town provide ample amenities. 

It’s an excellent location for visiting the adjacent Velika Planina or taking a day excursion to Volcji Potok, Slovenia’s largest garden park. If strolling through colorful flower fields isn’t relaxing enough for you, the Snovik Thermal Spa will help. Kamnik truly deserves to be described as beautiful.

Velika Planina

The Velika Planina extends over 577 hectares of alpine pastures. It is the collective name for a series of high alpine pastures that together form the highest alpine grazing plateau in Slovenia.

A large ensemble of shepherd’s huts surrounded by pine forests is located just a few minutes’ drive from Kamnik. It is a remarkable site located at an altitude of over 1,500 meters, that is truly a must-see from Kamnik or Ljubljana. In May, spring, along with the blooming of the purple Kamnik flower, is the dominant color.

All around, huts with pine shingle roofs and architecture that is truly unique in this mountain region. In the background, peaks over 2,500 meters form a wonderful landscape. The shepherd’s settlement comes alive in summer and preserves centuries-old traditions.

The Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows is located above the settlement and looks down protectively. The tourist settlement may not have quite as much history, but it’s still fascinating. The view from this elevated point of the Chapel is even more remarkable.

A number of inns dot the area, providing weary hikers with delicacies and refreshments straight from the history of this beautiful land.

Skofja Loka

Visiting it is one of the simplest and most enjoyable day trips from Ljubljana. Skofja Loka is one of Slovenia’s oldest communities, a charming medieval town with plenty to see.  The major attraction is the immaculately maintained Old Town, followed by the huge museum collection located in the massive castle on the hill. 

It’s worth hiring a local guide at the tourist office to learn about the town’s rich history, culture, and stories, including why the town’s coat of arms features an African man wearing a crown.

Our Favorite Ljubljana Tour

Ivona_K, Jul 2025

Ljubljana boat cruise and walking tour

” We enjoyed this leisurely tour. The boat tour was scenic, smaller boat so without crowds. During our walk around town we tried several Slovenian specialties. We learned a bit about Slovenian history and philosophy of life. Very enjoyable – not overwhelming with historical dates and facts. Worth recommending”.

Read more about – Ljubljana boat cruise and walking tour”

Bike Tour Ljubljana

Peddle past Ljubljana’s most famous monuments as well as some of the city’s hidden local hangouts that are off the beaten path. As you follow your guide, you will benefit from having someone else to navigate around sights of Tivoli Park, the Ljubljanica River, and noteworthy art exhibitions.

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Booking Hotel in Ljubljana

Ljubljana has luxurious, stylish hotels in key places, such as the city center, along roads, and close to the hills. The hotel’s interiors combine the concepts of modern hospitality and tradition. The combination of color, comfort, harmony, simplicity, and technological excellence makes the stay enjoyable and joyful. Rooms range from standard to big, well-lit, and technologically advanced.

Great location – friendly staff – Excellent stay – Booking hotel in Ljubljana by Trivago

👉For latest Search/Compare/Book hotel offers in Ljubljana visit our Partner booking links here⤵️

🌐 HOTELS IN LJUBLJANA BY TRIVAGO

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