Hidden Gems: Best Places to Visit in Ljubljana

Welcome to Ljubljana, the enchanting capital of Slovenia, which is often overshadowed by its famous neighbours such as Venice, Vienna or even Budapest. Try to picture yourself walking through breathtaking streets, visiting colourful market places, and stepping back in time, discovering the city's history with every step you take.

But you're maybe be wondering: why should I look for the hidden treasures in the exotic places? It’s very simple: it is those that are less marketed that are more original. They give you a reason to appreciate your stay, to learn about different things and make some memories that are out of the ordinary.

Aerial view of Ljubljana.

This blog post entitled Hidden Gems: Best Places to Visit in Ljubljana is my attempt to help you discovering this beautiful city. I will take you through some of the most spectacular places to visit in Ljubljana, which will not only be captivating sights but also quite a lot of historical, artistic, culinary and natural experiences that will be the essence of the city. So are you excited to unveil these attractions with me? Let's dive in!

Let's start with the most evident and stunning sight to visit in Ljubjana: the river Ljubljanica. This river winds its way through the city centre and gives the necessary picturesque atmosphere to the capital of Slovenia. This river not only separates but also unites the city through a wide variety of bridges and lively riverside attractions within its reach.

Main Attractions along the Riverside

• If you should visit a single place, make sure it’s Preseren Square. At the edge of the river is Preseren Square which is always busy with local people and tourists. For your information, the square is named after France Prešeren, Slovenian’s greatest poet, whose statue is at the center of the square. It's the perfect spot to start discovering the best places to visit in Ljubljana, as the square is home to street performers and offers magnificent views.
• Next, I recommend that you discover the architectural beauty of Triple Bridge. This famous architectural design comprises of three distinct bridges fanned out from Preseren Square. Architect Jože Plečnik created this masterpiece of architecture in search of beauty and harmony in the construction and with stunning views of the river.
• Dragon Bridge: This bridge is one of the key attractions as it's decorated with dragon’s statues which represent the city. The dragons are said to protect the city, and taking a photo with them guarantees some good luck.

Dragon statue on the Dragon Bridge.

Walking along the banks of the river Ljubljanica, you will not only find these historical bridges, but also cozy cafes, unique shops and colourful markets. Every inch has a story as well as something to offer about the culture of the city making it, from my point of view, one of the best places to go to when in Ljubljana.

As you walk towards Stari Trg (also called Old Town Square), you feel like travelling back in time. There is a clear reason why Ljubljana’s historic centre is considered its most active center. It consists of architecture, cobble paved streets and numerous inner squares which, I can assure you, will amaze you.

Breathtaking view of Ljubljana's Old Town Square, with the Triple Bridge in the background.

Historical Buildings

• Medieval buildings: The Old Town is an exhibition of Medieval buildings with colourful structures covering stories of more than centuries! I mean, just have a look at the photo above to see how colourful it is.
• Townhouses and Mansions: Beautiful and attractive townhouses and Mansions create a perfect scenario on the streets. However, the vegetation that goes with them is more a question of nature's creativity.

Vibrant Atmosphere

• Street Performers: Among the people in the square are usually musicians and even artists, who spice up the lively square.
• Cafés and Boutiques: Charming cafés as well as fashion boutique shops encourage you to rest and enjoy the views. One such cafe is Cafetino which is famous for serving several blends of coffee in a comfortable environment.

Notable Landmarks

• Robba Fountain: This Baroque fountain is one of my favourite symbols of Ljubljana.
• Town Hall (Mestna hiša): It's built in Gothic style and was originally constructed as the center for the city administration in the medieval centuries.

To move through Stari Trg is for me like reading a book through its history, where each page reveals a new story. The combination of historical importance and modern day culture is undoubtedly worth a visit.

Getting around Ljubljana is not just limited to sights and sounds. It is also a taste journey. Here, they combine the classics of hearty stews, pastries and more to create some delightful local cuisine. If you are a foodie, I can assure you that you'll be thrilled. Rich in gastronomy and history, Slovenian cuisine has a lot to offer. Here are some dishes I really think you must try:

• Potica: This sweet bread is made with nuts or poppy seeds.
• Jota: Warm, tasty soup with beans and sauerkraut, ideal for cold days.

Traditional Slovenian dishes are another way to learn about the culture of the nation as it reflects the nations culinary practices.

Visit and Explore the Markets and Food Festivals

Most of the times, experiencing the local food can be best done by visiting the local markets and food festivals. The Central Market of Ljubljana, like every other Central Market, is bustling with:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables: From colourful fruits to seasonal vegetables.
• Cheeses produced by hand: They are made with passion, and they really taste different.
• Wineries: Slovenia's wine regions are among the oldest in the world and produce exceptional wines.

Let's try something for two seconds. Just picture yourself in the market with cheese in one hand, wine in another, enjoying the warm chatter of people selling things and ready to share everything they know. Sounds good, right? When making a list of the places to visit in Ljubljana, this experience of the markets comes in very handy.

Hidden Gems for Food Lovers

It is not only about the authentic cuisines, as Ljubljana is a growing city with an increasing food culture that comprises modern and new concepts. Some of my personal favourites places that I think you should try include:

• Pri Škofu: A cozy Slovenian restaurant offering homemade cuisine using local ingredients.
• JB Restaurant: Combination of fine cuisines and Slovenian Heritage.
• Open Kitchen (Odprta Kuhna): This outdoor event lasts from spring till autumn in Pogačarjev Square and acts as a way to give restaurants a chance to serve a diversity of cuisines.

Tips for Foodies

For those wanting to have a true experience of the food and culture in Ljubljana, here are some of the dos:

• Participate on a food tour: These tours usually run from place to place and include locations and tastings that you wouldn't normally do or find if you went it alone.
• Cook like a local: There are several opportunities in countries to join cooking courses and learn how to prepare popular Slovenian treats.

Eating the cuisine of a region inches you closer to its very heart. It's the kind of satisfaction which only a momentously memorable journey can provide, and even long after it is over.

In terms of significance within the culture, no other place in Ljubljana is likely to capture as much attention from avid art lovers as the Museum of Contemporary Art. This one is a jewel in the crown, containing the entire history of modern art which embraced Slovenia.

During the visit to the museum, you will enjoy the varied works by Slovenian as well as foreign reputed artists. The collection includes not only paintings and sculptures, but also installation and video works created by a number of reputable artists. It is not just about watching something, rather, it is participating in modern art history. Museum’s opening hours can be checked online. I think that the most notable highlights include:

• Permanent Collection: This collection covers the period from the end of the 20th century to the middle of the 21st century, in order to provide you with a basic understanding of the main styles and trends in distinct periods in modern art.
• Rotating Exhibitions: In addition, other temporary exhibitions are often opened in the museum allowing additional things to see for children and adults regardless of the season.
• Educational Programs: Engage in activities, such as conferences, courses, lectures, and guided tours for a better appreciation of modern art.

Another very interesting detail is in which area the museum is located. Because it’s located near Tivoli Park, it is possible to combine the visit with a nice walk in Ljubljana’s park area. The Museum of Modern Art is a must-see institution in any modern architecture lover’s visit to Ljubljana, especially for those who seek to understand, as well as admire, contemporary artistic trends.

Possibly the best activity you can experience in town in the absence of a guided walking tour is the Union Beer Experience. Are you an adult who enjoys beer or are you simply curious about the local drinks? You owe yourself a visit to the Union Beer Experience in Ljubljana. It’s not just a tour through a brewery, it’s a complete odyssey of Slovenian beer culture through one of the most famous beers of the country.

The establishment of Union Brewery dates back to 1864 and it is a beloved institution amongst the resident people. The exhibition of the Union Beer Experience takes you through the workshop on how the people’s top rated beers are manufactured. You will get to see:

• The brewing process (obviously): From the sourcing of materials to the final output, it is possible to follow every action that is part of the preparation process of the famous Union beers.
• Historical displays: The museum of the brewery contains numerous and fascinating items along with the history of the place that tells about the duration and establishment of the company.

But what do I think makes this experience even more special? The tasting sessions of course! Each Union beer which you will be served has a different taste and you can try as many as possible. From the light refreshing ones to heavy and viscous flavors, every kind of thirst will be satisfied.

A very warm welcome is extended to the guests by the tour guides who are eager to explain all aspects of the brewery’s past, filled with interesting stories. And this is a great way to experience the local culture in Ljubljana, to get to know it through drinks.

To sum up, taking in an experience of the Union Beer Experience, you will not only engage in tasting of beautifully crafted beers but also appreciate the dynamics of a beer city, Ljubljana. As one of the must places to visit in Ljubljana, it allows the visitor to embrace history, culture and interesting tastes in one wonderful day. That's why I really think you should try it.

It does not take long to travel outside the capital of Slovenia as every part is covered by stunning sights. For the extreme athletes, the history enthusiasts or even the avid nature lovers, all the following locations are perfect destinations for day trips.

The Twin Paradises: Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj

Lake Bled is many time described as a fairytale. You can row on the beautiful bright blue waters to the island at the mid-position and stretch the wish bell at the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary. And do taste the famous Bled cream cake as well!

Lake Bled, which is not in the city, should be one of the must-see places to visit in Ljubljana.

Lake Bohinj is another fairytale, located in Triglav national famous park. It gives a much calmer mood. The serene environment is perfect for a hike or a swim, or just lying by the lakeside.

Lake Bohinj.

Absorbing Natural Scenery at Vintgar Gorge

Located in the outskirts of Bled, Vintgar Gorge features one of the most beautiful hiking trails, passing through greenery and wooden walkways built along the Radovna River. The highlight of this place is the Šum Waterfall where the scenery is breathtaking and good for taking photos.

Vintgar Gorge.

Visiting Predjama Castle and Škocjan Caves: A Synergy of History and Nature

Predjama Castle is one place I really think you shouldn’t miss because it is unlike any other thanks to its unique fact of being located at the top of a cliff. Tales of knights and siege surround this Renaissance castle built into rocks. The Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, contain a spectacular underground canyon with rather monumental stalagmites and stalactites.

Predjama Castle is another of the best places to visit near Ljubljana.

It is fun to discover some of these natural attractions around Ljubljana as they are very adventurous yet peaceful.

What is certain is that the vibrancy of nightlife in Ljubljana mirrors that of the charms of the town during the day with lots of noise and frenzies provided by bars, warm hospitality at pubs, energetic clubs and so much more. There are many students in the city, which is why the night life is so bustling every day and not just over the weekends. Kids will find many opportunities to rock all night long, or for those who prefer sipping cocktails by the river, there are also other places to visit in Ljubljana.

Among the popular nightlife venues to check out, I really advice you to go to:

• Metelkova Mesto: It is an independent cultural centre devoted to the alternative music as well as the art. The ideal location if one want to feel like going through the underground scene in Ljubljana.
• Pritličje: One of the most popular café during the day, becomes a very active bar at night, located at the very heart of the city.
• Cirkus Club: For those who enjoy such music styles as electric pop and who like partying in huge crowds, Cirkus Club does the job quite well.

A search of the most attractive and rare experiences in Ljubljana is a treasure hunt ready for anyone that wishes to take it up. Every angle and every corner stands out and is different in its own way, be it the Old Town, with its stunning streets, the cool river banks or the good food that slovenia is known for. And you can do it in the following manner:

• Strolling along Stari Trg and appreciating its rich history.
• Tasting traditional cuisine from local markets.
• Experiencing modern art at the Museum of Modern Art.

So I really hope that you liked this post, but don't forget that these experiences are just the beginning. The real beauty of Ljubljana can be found in the places that few will ever explore, the places that do not sit at the top of every tourist’s must see lists but that bear the city’s true character. So, pack your gear, wear comfortable shoes, and go for a hunt for those urban hidden spots.

The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes. – Marcel Proust

Be it your umpteenth holiday or your first one, Ljubljana welcomes you with its treasures that are waiting to be found. While looking for places to visit in Ljubljana, you will find many wonderful places to see and taste the lovely richness of the city’s culture, history and cuisine. Enjoy your explorations!