Ljubljana Holidays

A fairy-tale castle, riverside cafés and dragons on the bridges – Ljubljana’s got more charm than your nan’s tea set (and way better wine).

Highlights

• 🐉 Dragons everywhere – it’s the city’s mascot, and they’re everywhere (statues, souvenirs, legends… even cakes)

• 🏰 A castle on a hill – take the funicular or hike it for views, museums and medieval vibes

• 🚲 Super walkable (and cycle-able) – no traffic in the old town, just cobbles, bridges and that sweet café culture

• 🍷 Slovenian wine and food? Major under-the-radar gems – seriously, prepare to fall in love

Getting around

Ljubljana’s one of the most relaxed capitals in Europe – and getting around is just as breezy. The city centre is car-free, so you’re free to wander (or cycle) the cobbled streets without worrying about traffic. Want to save your legs? Hop on Kavalir – a free electric shuttle that zips you around the old town. Public transport is easy to use too, with buses covering wider Ljubljana and nearby sights. And if you want to see more of Slovenia, the train and bus stations are central, with regular links to Lake Bled, the coast, and beyond.

Things to do for families in Ljubljana

Ljubljana may be compact, but it punches way above its weight for family-friendly fun. Kids will love riding the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle, where they can roam the towers, play knights, or dive into the puppet museum (yes, there’s a puppet museum – and it’s adorable). Down below, Tivoli Park is packed with space to run wild, playgrounds, and even an open-air library. Hop on a boat cruise down the Ljubljanica River for a slow, scenic ride past dragon bridges and willow-lined banks. Oh, and don’t forget ZOO Ljubljana – nestled on a hillside and small enough to explore without any toddler meltdowns.

Things to do for couples in Ljubljana

Romantic? Ljubljana practically invented it. The old town is a cobbled maze of cute alleyways, pastel buildings and secret courtyards – all just begging for a couples' stroll. Sip Slovenian wine at a riverside café, watch the sun set from Ljubljana Castle, or cuddle up on a boat cruise under the glowing bridges. Art lovers? The National Gallery and Museum of Modern Art have you sorted, while foodies can sample local delicacies on a culinary walking tour. And if you fancy something a bit bougie? Book a table at Strelec – the castle’s fine-dining restaurant with swoon-worthy views and flavours to match.

Things to do for groups in Ljubljana

Ljubljana’s chilled vibes make it perfect for groups who want a stylish getaway without the crowds. Start with a beer or wine tasting tour (Slovenian craft beer is having a real moment), then bar-hop through the lively Metelkova district – a former army barracks turned colourful alternative scene with bars, street art, and a bit of organised chaos. Into culture? Check out a live gig at Kino Šiška or a quirky exhibition at the Museum of Illusions. When hunger strikes, hit Open Kitchen (Odprta kuhna) on Fridays – a buzzing outdoor food market where top chefs and street vendors serve up global eats with a local twist. Group selfie? Sorted.

Things to do for foodies in Ljubljana

Foodies, prepare to fall head over heels. Ljubljana’s food scene is an under-the-radar dream – part Alpine, part Mediterranean, with a sprinkling of Balkan boldness. Start your day with burek (a flaky pastry parcel of joy), then head to the Central Market to graze your way through local cheeses, honey, and dried meats. For lunch, go traditional with žlikrofi (Slovenian dumplings) or ultra-modern with a dish from a top chef at JB Restaurant or Monstera Bistro. Into wine? Slovenian whites are world-class and barely exported, so you’re sipping something special. Round off your night with a slice of Prekmurska gibanica (try saying that after a glass or two), and thank us later.