Slovenia Guide
Ljubljana
Ljubljana is one of Europe's most engaging cities. Situated in the Ljubljana river basin, at the juncture of the Alps and Dinaric mountain ranges, everything converges here: all major transport links, industry and commerce, culture, politics and power. However, with a population of less than 300,000, Ljubljana retains a distinctly languorous and provincial air and, while the city boasts a number of eminently enjoyable museums and galleries, its real charms lie outdoors. Ljubljana's central core is a showcase of princely Baroque and Secessionist edifices, while the legacy of magnificent buildings, bridges and pathways bequeathed by Jože Plečnik, Slovenia's greatest architect, is difficult to overestimate.
Geographically and socially, the heart of the city is Prešernov trg, a small, animated square located on the left bank of the River Ljubljanica. Several important streets converge here while just about all the major sights and points of interest are within comfortable walking distance.
Most people head straight for the magical Old Town on the right bank of the Ljubljanica: strewn with gorgeous Baroque townhouses and stately churches, all wrapped around a regal, castle-topped hill, it is easily the most appealing part of the city. The left bank too has more than its fair share of fine architecture, notably south of the main square Kongresni trg, beyond which are the delightful village-like suburbs of Krakovo and Trnovo.
Highlights
1 Jože Plečnik Stunning architecture at almost every turn from the nation's greatest architect.
2 Old town With Baroque churches, elegant townhouses and cool cafés, the Old Town has charm in spades.
3 Ljubljana Castle Looming high above the Old Town; climb the clocktower and take in the magnificent views of the Alps.
4 Križanke Take in a jazz or rock concert at the atmospheric, Plečnik-designed open-air theatre.
5 Trnovo Roman ruins, Plečnik oddities and riverside cafés in this green and peaceful suburb.
6 Tivoli Park The city's green heart, affording easy promenade strolls or more exerting hillside walks.
7 Ethnographic Museum The city's most absorbing museum brings together a terrific array of cultural heritage from both Slovenia and non-European lands.
8 Drinking by the Ljubljanica Enjoy a beer at sundown in one of the many bars along the willow-fringed banks of the Ljubljanica River.
Read more ▼
- Practical Information ▼
- Sight(s) ▼