Choose from 42 Fun Things to Do in Slovenia
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Congress Square
Ljubljana’s Congress Square (Kongresni trg) is an historical Baroque piazza uniting some of the city's most beautiful buildings and popular attractions—yet it's best known as a place to relax. Built in 1821 just a street over from the main area of old town, the peaceful square and verdant Park Zvezda (Star Park) that sits in its middle offer locals and visitors a quiet place to eat, read, and soak in views of the city's iconic hilltop castle.
The University of Ljubljana and Slovenian Philharmonic line the southern flank of the square, while the Baroque-designed Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity and popular Kazina are found on the square's north end. Also nearby are excavations of the Roman settlement of Emona.
Though most popular in summer when an open-air cinema plays free movies in the park in August, the square's surrounding Biedermeier-style architecture, convenient cafes, and beautiful scenery make it a major stop on most walking and cycling tours of Ljubljana.
Practical Info
Congress Square, or Kongresni trg, is located in old town Ljubljana. There is no admission fee and it is best accessed on foot, but most bus lines stop in close proximity to the park.
Did You Know? Congress Square plays an important role in the national psyche as it was here that Slovenia’s independence from the Austro-Hungarian Empire was celebrated in 1918, and here where the Slovenes gathered to demonstrate for freedom from Yugoslavia in 1991.
Address: Kongresni trg, Ljubljana, Central Slovenia, Slovenia
From $ 20
Hrastovlje
Despite its relatively small size, Hrastovlje is home to two of Slovenia’s most-unique features. The karst spring of the Rizana River, which flows through this quiet destination, is the only major spring in the entire country. And while this quiet body of water draws visitors because of its beauty, the Holy Trinity Church is Hrastovlje’s main attraction.
This impressive stone structure was built before 1500 and contains a world-famous Danse Macabre fresco that is truly impressive to see. Extensive restoration of the plaster walls and interior murals took place in the 1940s, and today, travelers can check out the church’s nave, where scenes from the Book of Genesis, saints, and the famous “Dance of Death” sequence line the walls. The church, which is located on a hillside just above town, also offers beautiful views of Hrastovlje and the Slovanian countryside.
Practical Info
Hrastovlje is located in Koper in the Littoral region of Slovenia.
Address: Hrastovlje, Slovenia
From $ 85
Lipica
Tucked almost on the border with Italy in Slovenia’s limestone karst landscape, Lipica is an ancient village best known for the stud farm that started breeding white Lipizzaner horses when the region was part of the Austrian Habsburg empire in the 16th century. The first brood mares and stallions were brought here from southern Spain in 1581 and although the stud has been relocated several times over the centuries – thanks to wars, earthquakes and changing national boundaries – the same Lipizzaner strain has been bred ever since.
A visit to Lipica Stud Farm encompasses guided tours of the historic estate, family-friendly “meet the horses” sessions, carriage rides (weather-dependent), seeing the horses in morning training and dressage performances by the stallions in the manège, while the Lipikum Museum showcases the backstory of the stud. For non-equine fans, the farm has a year-round nine-hole golf course.
Also to see in Lipica are mass graves dating from World War II, the Vilenica and UNESCO-listed Škocjan karst cave complexes and the ornate little Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes in the Dolina Valley, which is now a popular Catholic pilgrimage point.
Practical Info
Guided tours of the Lipica Stud Farm take place daily and last 90 minutes; tickets for adults are €6, students €9, children aged 5–15 €6, and kids under 5 enter for free.
Address: Lipica, Slovenia
From $ 19
Bohinj Lake
Slovenia’s largest lake is a tranquil oasis of pristine water lying in Triglav National Park northwest of Ljubljana. Bordered by the peaks of the Julian Alps, this is a region of powerful natural beauty, rich in cascading waterfalls and limestone cave complexes burrowing underground. It was formed by glaciation in the last Ice Age and today the lake is fed by spring waters bubbling up through limestone deep under its northern shores as well as glacier melt from the Savica River, which starts life plunging over a spectacular 71-m (232-ft) waterfall upstream in the Julian foothills. The same river leaves Lake Bohinj as the Sava Bohinjka, which twists and turns its way 30 km (18.5 miles) through tumbling gorges into the clear waters of Lake Bled.
Lake Bohinj is a hive of activity all year round, with cyclists and hikers basing themselves in the sleepy town of Ribcev Laz to follow the marked trails around the shoreline. While Bohinj occasionally freezes hard enough for ice-skating in winter, the sunny summer months are a haven for sports fans, when water temperatures are warm enough for swimming, wind surfing, kayaking and canoeing. Sailing and fishing for trout and char are other popular summer pastimes and excursion boats chug around the lake, departing from Ribcev Laz between May and October. Ibex, rare chamois and golden eagles can sometimes be spotted in the remote alpine landscapes surrounding Bohinj.
Practical Info
Lake Bohinj has a shoreline of 11.25 km (seven miles) and is 75 km (46.5 miles) northwest of Ljubljana. It is easily accessed by road or rail. Savica Waterfall is accessible Apr–Oct daily 8am–6pm, admission €2.
Address: Triglav National Park, Slovenia
From $ 66
Bohinj Valley
The quiet town of Bohinj is a favorite destination for winter amateurs, with its ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing, and ice skating. Located in the Julian Alps, stunning views are abound, and the natural attractions are the valley's biggest appeal.
In the summer, swimming, rafting, rock-climbing, hiking, fishing, and horseback-riding are the primary forms of entertainment, along with a thrilling opportunity for cave exploration.
Bohinj also offers the occasion to pamper yourself: its health and wellness spas are considered to be some of the best in Slovenia, and after a long day of physical exertion, relaxation will be well deserved.
Practical Info
Bohinj is accessible by bus and train from most major cities in the country, and also by plane. The closest airport is Ljubljana, and from there, visitors can rent a car, take a taxi, or take a bus into Bohinj.
Address: Bohinj, Slovenia
Admission: Free
From $ 68
Karst Region
Not limited to a specific municipality, the Karst (sometimes referred to as 'Kras') region is the land situated between Trieste Gulf and the Vipava Valley. The limestone plateau is so picturesque, and is famous for lending its name to a specific topographical phenomenon wherein fusible stones are affected and shaped by water. The lakes, springs, swallow holes, caves, and potholes that qualify as Karst make up a large portion of Slovenia.
As such, Karst is most famous for its incredible caves. These include Vilenica, Lipica, Divača, Kacna Jama, Postojna, and the Škocjan Caves, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. These are the main tourist attractions, and are certainly not to missed during a visit to Slovenia.
There are around 100 municipalities within the region, the center being Sežana. The main rural centers include Divača, Dutovlje, and Komen.
Cerknica Lake appears between October and June, and provides a wonderful atmosphere for fishing and bird-watching.
Practical Info
Because the region is so widespread, the most effective way to see it is by car. If you're flying into Ljubljana, it is possible to rent a car, take a taxi, or get a bus into any major city in the region.
The geological haven requires a good map and a good idea of how you would like to spend your time, as the lack of centralization can be confusing.
Address: Karst, Slovenia
Admission: Free
From $ 985
Dragon Bridge
At each entrance to Ljubljana’s dramatic Dragon Bridge, a pair of menacing green dragons stand watch, their stone-sculpted wings poised for flight and fire-breathing tongues darting out of their mouths. Erected in 1901, the striking quartet of dragons have become one of the city’s most memorable landmarks, but the statues are more than just aesthetic monuments. The mythical creatures are not only symbolic of the city’s founding (allegedly settled by Jason and the Argonauts after valiantly defeating a dragon) but local legend dictates that the dragons will swish their tails when the bridge is crossed by a virgin.
Crossing the Ljubljanica River just east of the equally impressive Triple Bridge, the Dragon Bridge is now one of the city’s most important bridges, connecting the modern city with the Old Town. Originally built and named for the Hapsburg Emperor, Franc Jozef, the more fitting nickname of the ‘Dragon bridge’ soon stuck, but the inscription of the side of the bridge still reads his dedication. The masterpiece of Dalmatian architect Jurij Zaninovic, the bridge is a much-celebrated example of the city’s Art Nouveau architecture, constructed from reinforced concrete and decorated with elaborate balustrades and original 20th-century street lamps.
Address: Connecting Kopitarjeva ulica and Resljeva cesta, Ljubljana, Slovenia
From $ 25
Bled Castle (Blejski Grad)
Built into a rocky precipice in the Julian Alps foothills of northwest Slovenia, Bled Castle sits high above the stunning blue-green Lake Bled. With moats, a drawbridge, ramparts, towers, and terraces with magnificent views of the lake, this 9th-century fortress is everything you would imagine a medieval fairy-tale castle to be.
The Basics
There is much to see and do at Bled Castle. Tour the castle grounds, learn about Bled’s history in the castle museum and view its extensive collection of medieval armor and weapons, browse the wine cellar and enjoy a tasting, and enjoy incredible panoramas of Lake Bled from the castle terrace.
Entrance to Bled Castle requires an admission ticket, which you can book in advance online or purchase at the gate. You’re welcome to explore Slovenia’s oldest castle on your own or book a guided tour of the castle grounds and museum. To see even more of Lake Bled, combine a Bled Castle tour with a Bled Island trip or Vintgar Gorge tour. Most tours of the region from Bled, Ljubljana, Piran, Zagreb and Pula (Croatia), and Trieste (Italy) visit the castle; some tours also stop at Postojna Cave and other area highlights.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bled Castle is essential for castle and medieval architecture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors to the region.
- Book tickets or tours in advance to save time at the gate.
- Reserve a table at the Bled Castle Restaurant and get free admission to the castle.
- Check the castle events schedule and perhaps catch a musical performance or medieval duel reenactment.
- Bled Castle is not easily accessible for wheelchair users or strollers.
How to Get There
Bled Castle is easily reached by car from the town of Bled, and there is parking right outside the castle gate. Many guided tours include transportation by bus or private car. You can also take a taxi from town to the castle or hike one of the scenic pathways that head up from the lake.
When to Get There
Bled Castle is open year-round with extended hours during the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit first thing in the morning or an hour or two before closing time. Bled Castle also hosts special events such as medieval festivals, farmers markets, and music performances.
Dining in the Castle Restaurant
Book a table at the Bled Castle Restaurant and enjoy traditional Slovenian flavors and superb views of Lake Bled from the terrace. With a restaurant reservation, you’ll enjoy free admission to the castle, which you can explore before or after your meal. Dining at the castle restaurant is popular, so book well in advance.
Address: Grajska cesta, Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
Admission: Varies
From $ 13
Lake Bled
Nestled into the foothills of the Julian Alps in northwest Slovenia, glacial Lake Bled is a place of spectacular natural beauty. Subterranean thermal springs keep the lake’s exquisite blue-green waters relatively warm during summer, making it a hot spot for water sports. Bled also makes a perfect base for exploring the Julian Alps.
The Basics
Lake Bled is lovely to admire from any vantage point. Wander the paved path that circles the entire lakeshore, take a traditional pletna (wooden flat-bottom boat) ride to the island in the lake’s center (or rent a boat and row yourself), or tour the medieval Bled Castle perched on the cliffs above and enjoy panoramic views from the castle terrace. For the more adventurous, take a guided rafting trip down one of Bled’s emerald rivers, rappel down cascading waterfalls on a guided canyoning tour, or rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside. Other popular activities in summer include swimming, kayaking, fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Guided tours to Lake Bled depart from cities such as Ljubljana, Piran, Koper, Zagreb (Croatia), and Trieste (Italy). Some tours include a stop at Postojna Caves.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Lake Bled is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers.
- Hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint, in the hills above Bled, for the best views of the lake.
- Relax at the private beach closest to town for a fee, or enjoy the public beach on the west shore of the lake for free.
- Be sure to grab a slice of Bled’s famous cream cake.
- The path around Lake Bled is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Lake Bled is located in northwestern Slovenia, an easy 34-mile (50-kilometer) drive from Ljubljana. Bled is serviced by two major train stations, and direct buses run frequently from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. The nearest airport is in Ljubljana.
When to Get There
Lake Bled is a joy to visit in any season. The high season is from mid-June through August, but September, October, April, and May are great months to visit thanks to mild weather and fewer visitors. Bled gets cold during the winter months, however the lake is very picturesque when blanketed with fresh snow.
Cycling Lake Bled
Cycling is an excellent way to explore Lake Bled and the surrounding countryside. Choose between a guided cycling tour or renting a bike and exploring on your own. There is no shortage of bike rental providers in Bled, and most bike rentals come with bike locks, repair kits, and maps of the area.
Address: Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
From $ 52
Kozjak Waterfall
Kozjak waterfall (‘Veliki Kozjak’ in Slovenian) is close to the village of Kobarid in the foothills of the Julian Alps in western Slovenia, close to the border with Italy. Access to the waterfall is along an undemanding and clearly signposted 20-minute trail overlooking the clear, turquoise waters of the Soča River, which is backed by lush alpine forest.
On its way down Mount Krnčica (7,028 ft (2,142 m)) to join the Soča, the Kozjak River flows through karst landscapes pockmarked with caves and throws itself over six limestone gorges. The lowest of these waterfalls is the spectacular Kozjak cascade, which plunges 50 ft (15-m) through a narrow ravine into a deep blue pool formed as the force of the water has eroded the cliffs around it into a hollow, rounded cavern. The falls are at their most impressive in spring after the snow melts and make a scenic swimming spot in summer; the river itself is a popular destination for kayakers, rafters and canyoners.
The Kozjak waterfall forms part of a circular walk that takes in all of the historic sights around Kobarid, including World War I bunkers and the Napoleon Bridge. This was built in 1750 and is so-named as Napoleon and his troops crossed it on their way to Predel Pass, where a battle took place against the Austrians in 1809.
Practical Info
Kobarid. Open 24/7. Admission free. Kozjak waterfall is close to Kobarid, a two-hour scenic drive through the Julian Alps from Ljubljana. From Kobarid, the falls are a short drive or a 30-minute walk towards the village of Drežnica; there’s a parking lot close by.
Address: In between Kobarid and Drežnica, Kobarid 5222, Slovenia
From $ 76
Koper
The Venetian-era old city, with its crumbling building facades, picturesque streets and impressive stone detailing is among the most popular sites in this historic port town. Tito Square, a gathering space for both locals and travelers, sits at the center of old city and provides a perfect starting point for visitors looking to explore.
In a city filled with buildings in near ruin, Praetorian Palace, built in the 15th century, is one of the only completely restored structures on the plaza. Though still in relatively rough condition, Cathedral of the Assumption remains an iconic church in the city and travelers can climb to the top of the bell tower at Campanile for some of the best views of the Koper.
Practical Info
Koper is easy to navigate on foot and accessible via public transit. Travelers can take the bus or train to stations located a short walk south of the Muda Gate in the old city.
Address: Koper, Slovenia
From $ 70
Ljubljana Castle
Perched on top of Castle Hill overlooking Slovenia’s capital city, the mighty medieval Ljubljana Castle dates back to the 11th century. This well-preserved fortress is visible from most everywhere in town and is a must-see for unbeatable views of the city. Tour the castle’s Museum of Slovene History for a fascinating introduction to Slovenia’s past.
The Basics
Visiting the castle grounds is free—wander the trails in the castle park and view the slopeside vineyard—but an admission ticket is required to climb the watchtower, enter the chapel, or view any of the exhibits in the history museum or the whimsical Museum of Puppetry. Not for the faint of heart, climbing the castle watchtower is a must—ascend a wrought-iron spiral staircase comprising 100 steps to enjoy 360-degree panoramas of Slovenia’s capital. Throughout the summer, the castle hosts medieval reenactments and live theater and music events.
Tour the castle attractions on your own or join a guided walking city tour to learn more about Ljubljana’s most noteworthy history.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ljubljana Castle is a must for medieval history buffs and all first-time visitors to the city.
- If traveling with small children, be sure to visit the Museum of Puppetry.
- The castle courtyard is free to visit, but it is worth the price of admission to climb the watchtower.
- Most of the castle and its exhibits are accessible to wheelchairs, but the watchtower is not.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Ljubljana Castle from Old Town, with the easiest being a funicular ride from the city center. Many guided tours include the funicular railway ride. There’s also Ljubljana’s urban tourist train, which stops at all the main tourist sights, and several walking pathways that ascend Castle Hill. Special access is available for the physically disabled.
When to Get There
Ljubljana Castle is open year-round, with extended operating hours during the summer. The castle is a very popular attraction, so visit early in the morning or late in the evening if you want to avoid crowds. The castle tower and grounds offer incredible sunset views of Ljubljana.
Ljubljana Castle Events
Not only is the Ljubljana Castle a key historic landmark in town, but it is also a center for cultural events and festivals. During the summer months, the castle courtyard hosts numerous live music and theater events, as well as an outdoor film series shown under the stars.
Address: Grajska planota 1, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Admission: Varies
From $ 9
Metelkova
Ljubljana’s funky, graffiti-strewn enclave of Metelkova is the alternative epicenter of the city, an area stuffed full of grungy clubs and bars that lies north of the Ljubljanica River. Whether they’re into rock, punk or folk, gay bars or beery dives, this is the place of choice for party animals amid the harsh military architecture of Metelkova’s former army barracks. These were abandoned by the defunct Yugoslav army in 1990 and were on line for demolition when a band of squatters moved in to save them; now they are run as an autonomous cultural center, along similar lines to Christiania in Copenhagen. In addition to being a mecca for late-night revelers, Metelkova is the destination for flea-market fans, pop-up street entertainment and edgy art exhibitions; the streets are packed most days of the week but the action really kicks off over the weekend, when kids flock in from all over Central Europe.
One of the city’s coolest hotels, the Hostel Celica, has its home in Metelkova, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova, which opened in 2011, is on its fringes in the newly christened Museum Quarter; it offers exhibitions of avant-garde European works, pop art and photography.
Practical Info
The Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova (MSUM) is located at Maistrova 3 and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am–6pm. Admission costs €5 for adults, €2.50 for seniors and students, and €8 for families.
Address: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Hours: Tues-Sun 10am–6pm
Admission: €5 for adults, €2.50 for seniors/students, €8 for families
From $ 35
Church of the Assumption
While the romantic position of the lovely Baroque Church of the Assumption on a minuscule mound in the middle of Lake Bled is enough to attract thousands of visitors to it each year – it is one of Slovenia’s most popular wedding venues – it is also feted thanks to its internal ornamentation, 177‐foot (54‐meter) tower and dedication to the Virgin Mary. Starting out as a pagan temple many years before the advent of Christianity, the church has at various times been a small, wooden structure and a single‐aisle Gothic church, which was consecrated by the Bishop of Ljubljana in 1465. The freestanding bell tower appeared later in the same century and the church was reconstructed yet again in 1685 in its present Baroque style, with a deliciously OTT gilt‐encrusted altar and black marble and wood‐carved pulpits contrasting keenly with its serene white and cream aisles. Two legends surround the church: that men must carry their partners up the 99 steps of the 15th‐century stone staircase leading up to its entrance to ensure marital happiness; and that ringing the wishing bell – which dates from 1534 – on the left of the altar makes wishes come true.
Practical Info
Admission adults €6, under 18s €1. Opening hours Apr & Oct 9am–6pm; May–Sept 9am–7pm; Nov–Mar 9am–4pm. Pletna boats make the journey over to Bled Island and are available for hire from three locations on the lakeshore: at Mlino on the south side of Lake Bled; at the rowing center on the northern shores; and close to the tourist office at the eastern end of the lake. Return fares are €12 per person.
Address: Bled Island, Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
Hours: Apr & Oct 9am–6pm; May–Sept 9am–7pm; Nov–Mar 9am–4pm
Admission: Adults €6
From $ 68
Bled Island
Overview
With its picture-perfect church and ornate steeple peeking out above the treeline and perched on Bled Lake, tiny Bled Island looks like something out of a fairy tale. Local tradition has it that a groom must carry his bride up all 99 steps that lead from the island’s dock to the church to ensure a happy marriage.
The Basics
There is no charge to visit the island, and visitors can arrive via traditional pletna boat or a rented private rowboat. You are free to explore the island’s café, gallery, and souvenir shop; however, an admission fee is required to enter the church. Many tours include transportation to Bled Island, and some include visits to other Bled sights such as dramatic, cliffside Bled Castle or the stunning Vintgar gorge. Adventurous travelers can swim out to the island from the lake’s west shore, although entering the church in a swimsuit is not allowed.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bled Island is a must-see for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts.
- Pletna boats are not wheelchair accessible, and the climb to the church requires that visitors be reasonably fit.
- For the best views of Bled Island, hike to the Ojstrica viewpoint in Bled.
- Be sure to try Bled’s famous cream cake, which can be purchased at the island café.
How to Get There
The most popular way to visit the island is by traditional pletna boat; these depart regularly from several lakeside locations for the 20-minute trip. Another option is to rent a boat and row out to the island yourself. If you’re a strong swimmer, you can easily reach the island from the west shore.
When to Get There
Bled Island is best visited in spring, summer, and fall, but may be visited in the winter if the lake does not freeze over. Summer can be quite busy, so make sure to book a Bled Island tour in advance or get in line early to score a spot on a pletna boat.
Ringing the Bled Island Bell
Legend has it that the church bell was a gift from 16th-century Pope Clement VII himself, presented after the first bell sank to the bottom of the lake. Today, you can climb to the top of the belfry and make a wish. The pope decreed, locals say, that if you ring the bell three times, your wish will come true.
Address: Bled, Upper Carniola 4260, Slovenia
Admission: Varies
From $ 58
Krizanke Summer Theatre
The mid-20th-century Slovene architect Jože Plečnik was responsible for much of Ljubljana’s rebirth as a cultured, elegant city; he built bridges over the Ljubljanica River as well as pathways along it and in the 1950s was also given the remit to design the Križanke Summer Theatre. It is located in the former Monastery of the Holy Cross, which dated right back to medieval times but was sacked by Yugoslav Communist leaders in the aftermath of World War II.
Plečnik set about creating a Renaissance-style entertainment venue with a vast entrance courtyard, paved with patterned cobbles and surrounded by arcaded walls etched with sgrafitto; his bust is also found here as a memorial to his designs, while some artifacts from the monastery are on display in a small museum next to the church. Today the complex offers four spaces, ranging from the Courtyard of Hell, where chamber-music concerts are held, to a sizeable stage where orchestral concerts and full-blown theater productions are held as well as rock concerts – it has a retractable roof in case of rain. The theater has a total capacity of 1,270 and is administrated by the Ljubljana Festival as the city’s most popular outdoor venue.
Practical Info
The theater is located at Trg francoske revolucije 1, and ticket prices vary by event.
Address: Trg francoske revolucije 1, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Hours: Vary
Admission: Varies
From $ 20
Ljubljana Old Town
Between Ljubljana’s medieval hilltop castle and the Ljubljanica River lie the narrow cobblestone streets and charming pastel-colored buildings of Old Town. The neighborhood’s impressive architecture, picturesque bridges, riverfront walkways, and heaps of cafés and bars with terrace seating help make Ljubljana a true jewel of Central Europe.
The Basics
Despite the fact that Ljubljana is Slovenia’s largest and capital city, Old Town is very walkable, as car traffic is restricted in the city center. Join a walking tour of Ljubljana to ensure you see all the popular sights such as St. Nicholas Cathedral, Central Market, and Dragon Bridge while also learning about the city’s history and architecture.
To get a bird’s-eye view of Ljubljana, ride the funicular from the town center to the top of Castle Hill where you can explore Ljubljana Castle and climb its watchtower for sweeping panoramas of the city. Most city walking tours include a funicular ride to the castle.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Old Town is a must-see for all first-time visitors to Ljubljana.
- Wear good walking shoes; Old Town streets are cobblestone and can be uneven.
- If traveling with children, the interactive Museum of Puppetry at the Ljubljana Castle is worth a visit.
- Old Town is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers, especially due to it being vehicle-free, though the streets can be bumpy and rutted in some areas.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Old Town from Ljubljana. Buses run hourly from the Ljubljana Airport; the journey takes about an hour. Private shuttles, taxis, and car rentals are options as well. Old Town is a pedestrian-only area, so finding parking nearby can be difficult.
When to Get There
Ljubljana’s Old Town can be visited year-round. Summer, with street festivals galore and reliable weather, is the most popular season. To avoid the crowds, visit in May or September, when the weather is still pleasantly warm and prices are generally lower. For a few weeks in late March through early April, the blooming cherry blossoms make Ljubljana particularly lovely.
Cycling in Ljubljana
With designated cycling lanes and many car-free streets, Ljubljana is an incredibly bike-friendly city. Take a guided cycling tour of Ljubljana and bike alongside the Ljubljanica River embankment, tour Old Town’s hidden narrow streets, and cycle past historic sites and architectural wonders scattered throughout the city.
Address: Ljubljana, Slovenia
From $ 25
Cathedral of St. Nicholas (Stolnica Sv. Nikolaja)
Ljubljana’s main church is also its biggest and the grand Cathedral of St Nicholas towers over Pogačarjev trg in the historic Old Town. Despite a history dating back to the 13th century, the present day cathedral dates back to an 18th century design by architect Andrea Pozzo, an elegant baroque structure, featuring twin towers and an enormous central dome.
It’s the opulent interiors that draw the most attention – an expanse of pink marble, white stucco and gilt, lavishly decorated by many of the city’s most prominent artists. Highlights include the baroque-style frescos by artists Giulio Quaglio and Matevž Langus; a pair of bronze walls erected in honor of the late Pope John Paul II; and the magnificent carvings decorating the choir stalls, organ and altar – the handiwork of Italian sculptor Francesco Robba.
Address: Dolničarjeva ulica 1, Ljubljana, Slovenia
From $ 25
Butchers' Bridge
Butchers' Bridge (Mesarski Most) may not be the most romantic sounding attraction in Ljubljana, but it's certainly popular among lovers. Since its construction in 2010, couples from around the world have adorned this footbridge over the Ljubljanica River with hundreds of locked padlocks to symbolize their eternal love. The city's answer to Pont des Art in Paris, the bridge is locally known as 'lovers' bridge,' and is the most recent of the 17 crossings over the river, connecting the Petkovšek Embankment to the Central Market.
More modern than Ljubljana's more famous bridges, Butchers' Bridge features a simple design, with two glass walkways, steel wire railings, and several bizarre bronze statues by Slovenian sculptor Jakov Brdar. Though recently built, the bridge gets its name from its first incarnation in the 13th century, when it occupied the area now covered by Shoemaker's Bridge. Home to the city's meat markets, the original bridge was moved out of the city after hundreds of complaints about the stench around the stalls. Romantic! Given new life in the 21st century, this bridge is now smell-free and an integral part of city walking tours.
Practical Info
Butchers' Bridge (Mesarski Most) is located in old town Ljubljana. There is no admission and can be accessed at anytime. Though a pedestrian bridge, bus lines 13 and 20 will take you closest to the bridge, alighting at Zmajski most bus stop on the north side of Ljubljanica River.
Address: Mesarski most, Ljubljana, Slovenia
From $ 141
Julian Alps
The highest mountain in Slovenia is Triglav, ascending to 2,864 meters (9,400 feet) in the Julian Alps and forming part of the country’s one and only national park. An alpine region of spectacular natural beauty, Triglav National Park is a landscape of river gorges, waterfalls, lakes, plateaus and cave systems carved out of the limestone bedrock as well as a paradise for fly fishing, hiking, cycling, trekking, skiing and climbing.
The rivers Soča and Sava rise in the Julian Alps and feed the pristine, emerald waters of lakes Bohinj and Bled. The former is Slovenia’s largest lake, swelled by glacier melt and spring waters that race through tumbling gorges on their way down to Lake Bled. Ribcev Laz is Bohinj’s laidback base for cyclists and hikers in the mountains, where rare ibex and golden eagles can occasionally be spotted.
Lake Bled is the summer playground of the Julian Alps, a center for sailing, fishing, kayaking and swimming based around the red roofs of Bled, the photogenic spa town squeezed between the snow-clad peaks and the lake. It is watched over by a ninth-century castle perched atop a rocky crag, while back down on the lake, traditional wooden pletna boats ply to and from the craggy islet home of the Baroque Church of the Assumption. Pretty as a picture, it is one of Slovenia’s most romantic wedding venues.
Winter sees a thick mantle of snow carpet the Julian Alps, when a dozen purpose-built resorts fill up with skiers. Foremost among these are Kranjska Gora, Kobla and Vogel, which all offer over 20 km (12.5 miles) of prepared piste for downhill and cross-country skiers as well as a modern, efficient network of lifts.
Practical Info
The Julian Alps are 2.25 hours northwest of Ljubljana and can be accessed by road or rail. Bled is the main town in the region; its tourist office is at Svobode 10 and it opens Mon–Sat 8am–6pm, Sun 11am–5pm.
Address: Bled, Slovenia
From $ 64