Overview
It is not a joke that Slovenia has one of the highest qualities of life in Europe and is the greenest country in the world. The cities exude natural beauty and it is the cleanest place we have ever traveled to hands down.
Slovenia is extremely beautiful but it is Ljubljana where it all comes together. The small capital city in the northern most Balkan country feels like it has absorbed the best of the cultures around it while remaining strikingly Slovenian. The English is fantastic; almost everyone in the capital speaks accentless English and the city itself might be one of the most remarkable in all of Europe.
Set with the Alps in view and striking distance of the ocean and some of the planet’s most gorgeous lakes, missing out on Ljubljana, and Slovenia for that matter, would be a darn shame. If we haven’t convinced you yet keep reading.
Is it Cheap?
Yes in comparison to Western Europe, but no compared to Eastern. It’s about the same price range as the Baltics with a meal being anywhere from 10-15 and a beer around 5. Hostels will run you anywhere from 20-35 Euros in high season. Ljubljana actually has more tourists than you expecting being on the way between Budapest and Venice. Many Germans also make their way down for the nice mediterranean vibes and good summer weather.
Ljubljana Castle
Lake Bled
Shores of Lake Bled
Slovenian Alps
What to Do
Catch all the views from the Ljubljana Castle
Sitting high above the city center and with funicular access, the Ljubljana castle blends in perfectly with the vast mountainous landscapes in the distance and the picturesque old town below. Hike up the cobblestone trail out of the old town and up a dirt road and you’ll arrive at one of the best views of Ljubljana, a vast and modern city appearing before your eyes. You can walk inside the castle courtyard for free where you will find a restaurant, a souvenir shop and the entrance to the castle museum.
Take a day trip to Lake Bled
Lake Bled is a bucketlist item. Possibly the most beautiful place we have ever been, Lake Bled is located about 45 minutes by bus from Ljubljana. Buses run from the central bus station to the town of Bled about 6 times per day and the ticket is around 9 Euros. The town of Bled is a small resort village located on the banks of the Lake. Perfectly Turquoise water, a medieval castle and an island with a small church on it fill the landscape as you get captured in the areas true beauty.
A harmony found in mountains, water and forest. At the lake you can rent a boat or stand up paddleboard to cruise around the water in. You can hike, swim or just relax in one of the many cafes. When the sun is shining, its hard to find a better place in the world to spend an afternoon.
Have coffee or beer on the river
The Ljubljanica River majestically flows through the old town streets and when the weather is nice, the locals roll out in swaths to sit in cafes, drink and talk until the early hours of the morning. Try traditional Slovenian food, Italian, German or something Ethnic and enjoy the views of Slovenia’s capital.
Walk around Tivoli Park
Just on the western edge of the old town sits Tivoli Park, which is nearly as large as the old town itself. Rent a bike and cruise around the majestic and regal park.
What to Eat and Drink
Burek: The traditional Ottoman stuffed filo dough dish can be found all over the former Yugoslav countries but it is the fast food option of choice in Slovenia besides Pizza. Try it with cheese or meat.
Kranjska Klobasa: The slavic region is known for their sausages and this specifically Slovenian variety is hearty and delicious.
Kremsnita: Don’t go to Lake Bled without trying this cream cake. Served in large squares with whipped cream and currant sauce, it’s worth the 3 Euros you’ll pay to have it.
Slivovka and Lasko: Lasko is a Slovenian beer that you can cheaply find all over the city. It’s light, hoppy and will do the job. Slivovka, also know as Rakija in the southern Balkans is a potent hard alcohol made from grapes, much like a light brandy. Watch out because it is not joking matter.
Transport
Transportation in Ljubljana is simple because the old town, and actually the entire city itself is quite small. As they do in all cities in Europe, Ljubljana has an efficient and clean bus and light rail system.
Internet and Phone - Sim Local, the Best Way To Stay Connected in Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia offers a range of phone and internet connection options tailored for tourists. Visitors can choose from various local SIM cards and mobile plans available at numerous kiosks, stores, and the airport, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout their stay. Public Wi-Fi is widely accessible in cafes, hotels, and popular tourist spots, making it easy to stay connected.
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Clubbing and Nightlife
We would argue that Ljubljana is a destination more to chill than anything else, but if you are looking for nightlife, there are some clubs that are definitely worth checking out, along with bars doing some very interesting things. There is a region in north eastern ljubljana called Metelkova, which is technically an autonomous, non policed portion of the city. Street artists have turned the entire complex into an art piece and cool bars and clubs have popped up, making it a unique place to spend an evening.
As far as bars are concerned, we can recommend spots called Zmauc and Premier Pub. If you want to go clubbing and have a late night out, definitely ask a local. The town is full of pop up parties.
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