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Ljubljana

Riverside cafes, dragon bridges & castle-hill views

Browse Ljubljana

Ljubljana is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Nostalgija SFRY Retro Shop, Ljubljana Castle and Triple Bridge. Food lovers should not miss Klobasarna and Gostilna As. Below you will find 11 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Ljubljana at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Nostalgija SFRY Retro Shop and Ljubljana Castle
  • Where to stay: Old Town and Metelkova
  • Local picks: 11 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Where to stay in Ljubljana

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Centre

Plecniks colonnaded riverside market, buzzing with produce stalls.
★ 4.4
$

Centre

The Art Nouveau bridge guarded by the citys famous copper dragons.
★ 4.5
$

Centre

A refined old-town institution for Slovenian and seafood cooking.
★ 4.5
$$$

Old Town

A tiny local favourite for kranjska sausage and jota stew.
★ 4.5
$

Day trip

A guided day trip to the fairytale island church of Lake Bled.
★ 4.7
$$

Castle Hill

The hilltop castle over the old town, reached by funicular.
★ 4.6
$

Metelkova

A graffiti-splashed autonomous quarter of bars, art and music.
★ 4.3
$

Center

The one place in Ljubljana where you can still touch the socialist Yugoslavia of the 50s to 80s. Half shop, half little museum, it’s crammed with original retro pins, postcards, posters and LPs that make brilliantly offbeat gifts – you can even rent a classic “Pony” bike. Entry’s free and the coffee is a euro.
★ 4.5
$

Tivoli

The citys sprawling green park of tree-lined promenades.
★ 4.6
$

Centre

Plecniks trio of bridges fanning across the Ljubljanica river.
★ 4.6
$

Old Town

A slim design hotel in the old town with a rooftop plunge pool.
★ 4.5
$$

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Ljubljana travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Ljubljana?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Ljubljana at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Ljubljana?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Ljubljana?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Ljubljana guide.

What is the best time to visit Ljubljana?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Ljubljana is worth visiting year-round.

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