Visiting Ljubljana is like stepping into a fairy tale. Slovenia’s capital is a charming picture perfect city which is safe and extremely easy to visit. It is a walkable city and is very tourist friendly with most people speaking English. The city has a range of attractions on offer including bustling town squares, impressive churches and scenic vantage points. Best of all, a large number of the attractions in Ljubljana are absolutely free. In this Ljubljana travel guide, we’ll show you the 17 best free things to do in Ljubljana Slovenia.
Plan your trip: Here are our Ljubljana Slovenia top recommendations:
Activities: book your Ljubljana Slovenia Tours with Get Your Guide.
Accommodation: we use Booking.com to find the best hotels.
Transport: TrainLine for trains and FlixBus for intercity buses.
Flights: find cheapest flights with cashback on WayAway.
Airport Lounge Access: start your holiday the right way with Priority Pass.
Travel Medical Insurance: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is the ideal choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
Top free things to do in Ljubljana Slovenia
We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Ljubljana Slovenia.
- Ljubljana Old Town
- Tromostovje (Triple Bridge)
- Tivoli Park
- Prešeren Square
- Ljubljanica River
- Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge)
- Central Market
- Ljubljana Castle Courtyard and surrounding park
- Nebotičnik – Skyscraper
- Metelkova
- Cankarjevo Nabrežje
- Sts Cyril and Methodius Church
- Stari Trg (Old Square)
- Mestni Trg (Town Square)
- Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square)
- Kongresni Trg (Congress Square)
- Gornji Trg (Upper Square)
Keep reading to find out more about each destination.
Historical centre of Ljubljana Slovenia: Ljubljana Old Town
About Ljubljana Old Town
Ljubljana Old Town is the historical centre of Ljublana. Located at the foot of Ljubljana Castle, this area is mainly a pedestrian zone. It’s a beautiful area to walk around with many stunning Baroque and also Vienna Succession style buildings to admire. The old town is a charming area which is popular with both locals and tourists alike. It has a great atmosphere and is a perfect setting for getting some great holiday photos. Notable landmarks in the Ljubljana Old Town include the Triple Bridge, Preseren Square as well as the Ljubljanica River.
Why visit Ljubljana Old Town
A trip to Ljubljana wouldn’t be complete without visiting Ljubljana Old Town. Ljubljana Old Town is the true heart of Ljubljana. This vibrant city square is a popular gathering place in the city. The square is also one of the best photo spots in Ljubljana. Beautiful old buildings surround the square, which overlooks the sea. It has a vibrant atmosphere and is a beautiful place to visit.
How long to spend at Ljubljana Old Town
We recommend allowing a day or two to explore Ljubljana Old Town.
Opening hours for Ljubljana Old Town
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend at Ljubljana Old Town
There are a number of shops, restaurants and cafes in Ljubljana Old Town. The Central Market is also a popular spot to go shopping. There are also a number of paid attractions in the Old Town as well as a tourist train and bicycle rental available.
Ljubljana Old Town address
1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Unique water crossing in Ljubljana Slovenia: Tromostovje (Triple Bridge)
About the Tromostovje (Triple Bridge)
The Tromostovje (or Triple Bridge in English) is a unique architectural feature of Ljubljana. The bridge was originally a single stone bridge with metal railings that was built in 1842 and called Franz’s Bridge. However in 1932 two additional pedestrian bridges were added by architect Jože Plečnik and the metal railings on the original bridge were replaced by stone balustrades with lamps on top to match the other two bridges. While the original bridge was a traffic bridge, all three bridges are now pedestrian bridges. They connect the modern city of Ljubljana to the old medieval town.
Why visit Tromostovje (Triple Bridge)
Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) is a distinctive bridge which is one of the major landmarks in Ljubljana. From the bridge there are great views of Ljubljana Castle. The bridge is also conveniently positioned next to Prešeren Square and between the old and new parts of Ljubljana. It’s a major thoroughfare and a must see in Ljubljana. Be sure to walk across all three spans of the bridge while you’re there!
How long to spend at Tromostovje (Triple Bridge)
5-10 minutes is plenty of time to walk across all 3 parts of the bridge and to take plenty of photos.
Opening hours for Tromostovje (Triple Bridge)
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend in Tromostovje (Triple Bridge)
For 14 euro (price as at 2024) you can take a scenic 45 minute boat ride down the Ljubljanica River, passing under this bridge.
Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) address
Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3G24+CF Ljubljana, Slovenia
Sprawling park in Ljubljana Slovenia: Tivoli Park
About Tivoli Park
Tivoli Park is a sprawling public park near the centre of Ljubljana. As Ljubljana’s largest green space, it spans over an area of 5 km2. It was designed in 1813 by French architect Jean Blanchard. The park is extremely scenic, with flower beds, plenty of trees as well as fountains and statues. The park contains green lawns, a fish pond, a greenhouse, several historical buildings, children’s playgrounds as well as a mini-golf course. Beautiful paved walking paths also run through the park. Architect Jože Plečnik designed the major promenade of the park, Jakopič Promenade, which features open air photographic displays. Tivoli Castle lies at the end of Jakopič Promenade. The park is also home to many species of birds. It has protected status as part of Tivoli–Rožnik Hill–Šiška Hill Nature Park.
Why visit Tivoli Park
Tivoli Park is a great place to come for a relaxing stroll and perhaps a picnic. It is a very pretty area and extremely peaceful. It’s also a great place to immerse yourself in nature.
How long to spend at Tivoli Park
Tivoli Park is a nice place to spend an hour or two.
Opening hours for Tivoli Park
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting it during the day.
If you have money to spend in Tivoli Park
Play a round of mini-golf or dine at the cafe in the park. Alternatively you can hire a bike and cycle through the park. The park is also a great place to have a picnic lunch.
Tivoli Park address
Tivoli, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3F3V+HX Ljubljana, Slovenia
Main square in Ljubljana Slovenia: Prešeren Square
About Prešeren Square
Prešeren Square (or Prešernov trg in Slovene) is Ljubljana’s main town square. Located at the entrance to the medieval old town, it is a popular gathering spot and often hosts festivals, concerts and other events. This circular square is a pedestrian zone which is surrounded by important buildings such as the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, Frisch House and Urbanc House. A statue of Slovene national poet France Prešeren stands at one end of the square. On another side of the square is a bronze model of the city of Ljubljana. A number of major streets radiate from the square as well as the Triple Bridge which crosses the Ljubljanica River. The square dates back to the 17th century.
Why visit Prešeren Square
Prešeren Square is a major thoroughfare when walking through Ljubljana. It is a pretty square that is always filled with people. Street performers and musicians often perform in the square. Moreover the square truly comes alive during major events which are held in the square. A tourist office is located opposite the square and free walking tours start at Prešeren Square. There are also nice views of the castle from Prešeren Square. Additionally, at night the square lights up and looks very pretty.
How long to spend at Prešeren Square
A quick walk through Prešeren Square only takes five minutes, however we recommend spending half an hour relax in the square, enjoy the beautiful views, taking part in any events that are on, people watch and enjoy the atmosphere.
Opening hours for Prešeren Square
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend near Prešeren Square
Buy a drink and a snack from a nearby cafe and enjoy it in the square.
Prešeren Square address
Prešernov trg 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3G24+HC Ljubljana, Slovenia
Best views in Ljubljana Slovenia: Ljubljanica River
About Ljubljanica River
Ljubljanica River is the river that flows through the centre of Ljubljana. The river has a total length of 41km (25 miles) and runs from town of Vrhnika all the way to the Sava River. The river has particular archaeological significance as many historical artefacts have been found in the river over the years. In order to stop items being lost to treasure hunters, Slovenia’s national parliament declared the river a site of cultural importance and as such diving in the river without a permit is banned.
Why visit Ljubljanica River
Ljubljanica River is a beautiful waterway which runs through the centre of Ljubljana. The area surrounding the Ljubljanica River is one of the most beautiful areas in Ljubljana with gorgeous architecture and the perfect vacation atmosphere. It’s also a great place for a relaxing stroll or a nice meal.
How long to spend at Ljubljanica River
We recommend spending at least a couple of hours on the waterfront overlooking the Ljubljanica River. It’s a relaxing place to go for a stroll and there are pedestrian walkways on both sides of the river. Be sure to walk across the bridges that span the river while you’re there. We’d also recommend stopping at one of the waterfront restaurants for a relaxing meal overlooking the river.
Opening hours for Ljubljanica River
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend near Ljubljanica River
Take a scenic boat ride down the Ljubljanica River on the Ljubljana Tourist Boat. A 45 minute trip costs 14 euro for adults (price as at 2024). Alternatively, enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the restaurants, bars or cafes overlooking the river.
Ljubljanica River address
Slovenia
Plus code: 3G26+QC4 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Famous bridge in Ljubljana Slovenia: Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge)
About Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge) Ljubljana Slovenia
Zmajski Most (or Dragon Bridge in English) is one of the most famous landmarks in Ljubljana. It is a popular spot for photos due to the impressive dragons that adorn the bridge. There are 4 fierce dragons at the entry points to the bridge as well as 16 smaller dragons along the span of the bridge. Dragons have long been a symbol of Ljubljana and take pride of place on the city’s coat of arms as well as the flag. Legend has it that Jason (mythical Greek hero and the leader of the Argonaughts) passed through here after stealing the golden fleece. According to the story, he stopped by a large lake near the Ljubljanica River where he encountered, fought and slayed a dragon. Nowadays dragons are seen as the protector of the city.
Dragon Bridge was built in 1901 to replace an oak bridge that was damaged in the 1895 earthquake. It is a prime example of Vienna Secession architecture (closely related to Art Nouveau). This triple-hinged arch bridge built with reinforced concrete. Reinforced concrete was chosen as the building material as it was cheaper than stone. Dragon Bridge was one of the first reinforced concrete bridges in Europe and the first asphalt-paved bridge in Slovenia. The bridge is primarily used for motorised traffic but can also be crossed on foot. It spans over the Ljubljanica River with a length of 33.34 metres (109 feet 5 inches).
Dragon Bridge was originally named Jubilee Bridge in honour of Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I. It received its current name in 1919.
Why visit Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge) Ljubljana Slovenia
Dragon Bridge is an iconic bridge in Ljubljana and a great photo spot.
How long to spend at Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge) Ljubljana Slovenia
You can easily walk over the bridge in less than 5 minutes. Be sure to stop for some photos with the dragons while you’re there.
Opening hours for Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge) Ljubljana Slovenia
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend in Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge) Ljubljana Slovenia
There are some cafes and restaurants nearby as well as the popular Central Market.
Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge) Ljubljana Slovenia address
Resljeva cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3G26+Q5 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Best market in Ljubljana Slovenia: Central Market
About Central Market Ljubljana Slovenia
Central Market (or Centralna Tržnica in Slovene) is a vibrant local market in the heart of Ljubljana. It consists of an open-air market in the squares Vodnikov Trg and Pogačarnev Trg, a covered market in between those squares as well as a row of small food shops along the riverfront in a building designed by famous architect Jože Plečnik. The market is where the locals go to shop and to socialise. It’s a great place to people watch and to get some great local produce. Items for sale include fresh fruit and vegetables, an abundance of colourful flowers and other foodstuff like baked goods. Also for sale are items such as clothing, handmade goods and souvenirs. On Friday mornings between mid-March and the end of October there are international food cooking demonstrations by local chefs when weather permits.
Why visit Central Market Ljubljana Slovenia
Central Market is a great place to come to experience the local way of life. Even if you don’t want to spend a cent, it’s an interesting place to look around and enjoy the atmosphere. We particularly enjoyed seeing all the colourful fresh flowers for sale. There are also a few vendors selling souvenirs.
How long to spend at Central Market Ljubljana Slovenia
We recommend spending around 15-30 minutes at this great Ljubljana free thing to do.
Opening hours for Central Market Ljubljana Slovenia
Open-air section summer:
Monday-Friday: 6am-6pm
Saturday: 6am-4pm
Open-air section winter:
Monday-Saturday: 6am-4pm
Covered sections:
Monday-Friday: 7am-4pm
Saturday: 7am-2pm
Sunday and holidays: Closed
If you have money to spend near Central Market Ljubljana Slovenia
Shop ‘til you drop! There’s plenty of excellent local produce to choose from. This is also a great place to buy souvenirs.
Central Market Ljubljana Slovenia address
Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3G26+H3 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Iconic landmark in Ljubljana Slovenia: Ljubljana Castle Courtyard and surrounding park
About Ljubljana Castle Courtyard and surrounding park
Ljubljana Castle Courtyard and surrounding park are areas of the iconic Ljubljana Castle that are free to access. The courtyard is quite pretty and there are a few restaurants that overlook this space. From the courtyard there are stairs that lead up to a viewing platform on the castle wall which is free to access and has some of the best views of Ljubljana. The surrounding park is peaceful and shady with a number of walking paths.
Ljubljana Castle is set on top of Castle Hill overlooking the city of Ljubljana. The castle was originally built in the 11th century and rebuilt in the 12th. It was significantly altered in the 15th century and added to in the 16th and 17th. The final renovation works started in the late 1960s and continued for more than 35 years. The castle is now used as a cultural venue and has museums, restaurants, exhibitions, experiences and restaurants.
Why visit Ljubljana Castle Courtyard and surrounding park
Ljubljana Castle is one of the major landmarks in the city and your trip to Ljubljana wouldn’t be complete without seeing this magnificent building up close. Some of the best views of Ljubljana can be had from the walls of the castle. The surrounding park is a very peaceful area to walk around.
How long to spend at Ljubljana Castle Courtyard and surrounding park
We recommend allowing an hour or two to explore Ljubljana Castle Courtyard and surrounding park. It is also free to go onto one of the viewing platforms on the castle wall, which gives amazing views of the surrounding area. The park around the castle is quite expansive and a great area to walk around.
Opening hours for Ljubljana Castle Courtyard and surrounding park
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours. However features of the tower such as the information centre, the shop, restaurants and the funicular have set opening hours. We recommend visiting it during the day.
If you have money to spend at Ljubljana Castle
The funicular is a fun way to travel up the hill to Llubljna Castle. Tickets are 3.30 euro one way or 6 euro return. There are also a number of different tickets for entry to various parts of the castle which also includes the funicular return ticket. If you feel like something to eat at the castle, there are a few excellent restaurants to choose from. We recommend Gostilna na Gradu.
Ljubljana Castle address
Grajska planota 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 2GX5+H8 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Tallest building in Ljubljana Slovenia: Nebotičnik – Skyscraper Slovenia
About Nebotičnik – Skyscraper Slovenia
Nebotičnik – Skyscraper is one of the most famous buildings in Ljubljana. It was the tallest building in the Balkans and the ninth tallest in Europe when it opened in 1933. The building was commissioned by the Pension Institute and designed by Slovenian architect Vladimir Šubic. It reaches of height of 70.35 metres (230.8 feet) and includes thirteen storeys:
- Ground and 1st floor – shops
- 2-5th floors – office space
- 6-9th floors – residential
- 10th floor – restaurant
- 11th floor – club-lounge
- 12th floor – cafe
- 13th floor – VIP area
The upper floors have amazing panoramic views, which are particularly pleasant at sunset. There’s no obligation to spend anything while you’re up there, but it is a lovely place to have a drink or a meal. The entrance to the building is an inconspicuous black marble doorway. Inside there is an art déco spiral staircase that winds its way up the centre of the building to the 10th floor. There are also lifts to take you to the upper floors.
Why visit Nebotičnik – Skyscraper Slovenia
Nebotičnik – Skyscraper is a beautiful area to walk around. The canal is surrounded by gorgeous buildings and popular cafes, bars and restaurants. It has a great atmosphere and also hosts a number of events throughout the year.
How long to spend at Nebotičnik – Skyscraper Slovenia
15-30 minutes is plenty of time to look around the building and admire the views. However if you have more time, we recommend spending a couple of hours up here having a drink and a meal and watching the sunset.
Opening hours for Nebotičnik – Skyscraper Slovenia
Monday-Saturday: 9am-12am
Sunday: 12pm-10pm
If you have money to spend at Nebotičnik – Skyscraper Slovenia
The cafe is a great place to enjoy a drink while admiring the view.
Nebotičnik – Skyscraper Slovenia address
Štefanova ulica 1, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3G33+8F Ljubljana, Slovenia
Artistic and alternative space in Ljubljana Slovenia: Metelkova
About Metelkova
Metelkova (also known as Metelkova City Autonomous Cultural Centre or AKC) is an artistic and cultural space 15 minutes walk from the city centre. This area was a military barracks until Slovenian and Croatian independence in 1991. It spans over 1.25 hectares (3 acres) and includes several buildings. In 1993 a collective of about 200 activists, artists and protesters took over the space to prevent it from being pulled down. Since then it has operated as a squat and an alternative and artistic community area. In 2005 it was declared a national cultural heritage site.
The area is filled with street art and sculptures. There is a museum, bar and nightclub and even a hostel. During the day it attracts visitors that come to admire the street art and from about 9-10pm at night the area is popular for its night life. There are often events and activities on in this area and further details can be found on its website: http://www.metelkovamesto.org/
Why visit Metelkova
Metelkova is a really unique and interesting part of Ljubljana and is very distinct from the rest of the city. Those interested in alternative spaces and counterculture will enjoy this space. It is very unconventional and the area does have its fair share of drug dealers and homeless people, so not everyone will feel safe here. However the area does have a vibrant nightlife and a flourishing art scene.
How long to spend at Metelkova
If you’re visiting during the day, 10-15 minutes is enough time to walk around the admire the street art. However if you are interested in the nightlife, allow a few hours.
Opening hours for Metelkova
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend at Metelkova
There are bars and clubs at Metelkova at night. For a unique accommodation experience, consider a stay at a former prison which has been converted to the Hostel Celica.
Metelkova address
Metelkova ulica 10, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3G48+WJ Ljubljana, Slovenia
Riverside walkway in Ljubljana Slovenia: Cankarjevo Nabrežje
About Cankarjevo Nabrežje
Cankarjevo Nabrežje (Cankarjevo Embankment or Cankarjevo Riverside in English) is a beautiful riverfront promenade running along the Ljubljanica River in the middle of Ljubljana. The walkway is lined with bars and restaurants that attract crowds and happy diners. The promenade is named after Slovene writer Ivan Cankar.
Why visit Cankarjevo Nabrežje
Cankarjevo Nabrežje is a gorgeous area in the heart of Ljubljana. It’s a great area to walk along and people watch. This scenic walkway is particularly popular at dusk and at night when the area lights up and people come for a drink or a meal. It’s also a lovely area during the day.
How long to spend at Cankarjevo Nabrežje
It takes around 10 minutes to walk from one end of Cankarjevo Nabrežje to the other. However there are so many great places to eat or drink here that it would be a shame not to spend an hour or two at one of the outdoor dining areas enjoying the views and the atmosphere.
Opening hours for Cankarjevo Nabrežje
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend near Cankarjevo Nabrežje
There are plenty of great bars and restaurants to enjoy along the waterfront.
Cankarjevo Nabrežje address
Cankarjevo nabrežje, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 2GX4+W7 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Eastern Orthodox church in Ljubljana Slovenia: Sts Cyril and Methodius Church
About Sts Cyril and Methodius Church Ljubljana Slovenia
Sts Cyril and Methodius Church is an Eastern Orthodox church in Ljubljana Slovenia which is associated with the Serbian Orthodox Church. The church was named in honour of two brothers who are revered in the Eastern Orthodox Church and were the inventors of the Cyrillic alphabet.
The church features five domes with crosses on top. On the inside it is richly adorned with frescoes and iconostasis. Construction of the building started in 1932 and continued until 1936. The iconostasis were created by a Macedonian woodcarver and then painted by Slovene painter Mirko Šubic in 1940. However work on the building stalled during World War 2 and after the war communist authorities prevented further work on the building. The frescoes on the interior were painted by Serbian painters between 1986 and 1997 and the church wasn’t officially blessed until 2005. This is one of the longest times taken to build an Orthodox temple out of any Orthodox temple in the world.
Why visit Sts Cyril and Methodius Church Ljubljana Slovenia
Sts Cyril and Methodius Church is a pretty church that is well worth a stop on the way to the nearby Tivoli Park. The exterior of the church with the five domes is quite striking and the interior is very ornate and beautiful.
How long to spend at Sts Cyril and Methodius Church Ljubljana Slovenia
5-10 minutes is sufficient time to visit the church and take a few photos.
Opening hours for Sts Cyril and Methodius Church Ljubljana Slovenia
Daily: 8am-7pm
If you have money to spend in Sts Cyril and Methodius Church Ljubljana Slovenia
The church accepts donations.
Sts Cyril and Methodius Church Ljubljana Slovenia address
Prešernova cesta 35, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3F3X+HQ Ljubljana, Slovenia
Old Square of Ljubljana Slovenia: Stari Trg
About Stari Trg (Old Square) Ljubljana Slovenia
Stari Trg (or Old Square in English) is the oldest square in Ljubljana and the heart of the Old Town. From here there is a path up to Ljubljana Castle. On either side of this square of charming 19th century shopfronts and restaurants. There are also a number of medieval houses and Baroque palaces. Little alleyways feed off the square, giving you quick access to the waterfront. It’s a lovely area to walk around.
Why visit Stari Trg (Old Square) Ljubljana Slovenia
Stari Trg is a beautiful street to walk down. It has a great selection of restaurants and shops to explore. It’s also conveniently on the way to Ljubljana Castle. It’s a great place to come to admire the architecture and to people watch.
How long to spend at Stari Trg (Old Square) Ljubljana Slovenia
It takes less than 5 minutes to walk from one end of Stari Trg to the other. However we recommend between half an hour to a couple of hours to explore the area, look inside some of the shops and perhaps stop at a restaurant for a drink or something to eat.
Opening hours for Stari Trg (Old Square) Ljubljana Slovenia
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend at Stari Trg (Old Square) Ljubljana Slovenia
The church accepts donations.
Stari Trg (Old Square) Ljubljana Slovenia address
Stari trg, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 2GX4+2G Ljubljana, Slovenia
Town Square of Ljubljana Slovenia: Mestni Trg
About Mestni Trg (Town Square)
Mestni Trg (or Town Square in English) is one of the main squares in Ljubljana. It is a popular area to walk along with many shops and restaurants located here. This nicely paved street is lined with charming Baroque buildings. One of the major landmarks in the square is the 18th century fountain and obelisk called Robba fountain.
Why visit Mestni Trg (Town Square)
As one of the main pedestrian thoroughfares in the city, Mestni Trg (Town Square) is hard to miss. It is a popular area for tourists, particularly due to its great selection of restaurants and eateries.
How long to spend at Mestni Trg (Town Square)
Mestni Trg is worth a quick walk through and a few photos. 5-10 minutes should suffice, more if you want to stop for a meal or a drink at one of the restaurants.
Opening hours for Mestni Trg (Town Square)
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend near Mestni Trg (Town Square)
There are a number of restaurants and cafes surrounding the square.
Mestni Trg (Town Square) address
Mestni trg, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3G24+5W Ljubljana, Slovenia
Market square in Ljubljana Slovenia: Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square)
About Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square)
Vodnikov Trg (or Vodnik Square in English) is a busy square in Ljubljana Slovenia. During the day it has an open air produce market called Ljubljana Central Market. The square was built in 1895 after an earthquake destroyed the monastery and girls’ college that was previously here. The square is named after a Slovene priest called Valentin Vodnik. There is a statue of Valentin Vodnik overlooking the square.
Why visit Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square)
Vodnikov Trg is a great place to come to get a taste of local life in Slovenia. The fresh food markets have a lively atmosphere and are interesting to look around. There are also a number of popular restaurants and cafes overlooking the square. Vodnik square is conveniently located in a central position in Ljubljana, close to the river as well as the Dragon Bridge. Across the street is a path that leads up to Castle Hill.
How long to spend at Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square)
5-10 minutes is enough time for a quick walk through the square. However we recommend allowing half an hour to browse the markets, take plenty of photos and enjoy the atmosphere. Allow extra time if you wish to stop for a drink or meal at one of the nearby cafes.
Opening hours for Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square)
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours. However we recommend visiting during the day.
If you have money to spend near Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square)
There are plenty of shops and eateries along Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square).
Vodnikov Trg (Vodnik Square) address
Vodnikov trg, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 3G25+7X Ljubljana, Slovenia
Central square in Ljubljana Slovenia: Kongresni Trg (Congress Square)
About Kongresni Trg (Congress Square)
Kongresni Trg (or Congress Square in English) is on of the central squares in Ljubljana Slovenia. The square dates back to 1821 and has been the setting of a number of important events in the capital. In 1918, this square was the setting for the proclamation of independence from Austrian-Hungarian rule and the establishment of the State of Slovenes, Croats and Serbs. Slovenia also declared its independence from Yugoslavia in this square in 1991. The square remains a popular venue for concerts, national celebrations and other events.
The square is surrounded by many important buildings including the Slovenian Philharmonic Building, Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity and a University of Ljubljana building. Within the square are a number of statues, monuments and structures such as the Statue of Emonian and the Sidro monument (anchor statue) as well as a pavilion. There are walking paths throughout the square as well as plenty of trees. Underneath the square is a large carpark and public toilets.
Why visit Kongresni Trg (Congress Square)
This expansive square is a nice area to walk through. It is surrounded by beautiful and historic buildings and there are a number of interesting monuments in the square. It’s a great place to relax under the shade of some trees and enjoy the peacefulness of the area. There are also plenty of great photo opportunities all around the square.
How long to spend at Kongresni Trg (Congress Square)
It’s possible to walk through the square and take a few photos in as little as 5-10 minutes. However we recommend allowing half an hour to an hour to relax and enjoy the area.
Opening hours for Kongresni Trg (Congress Square)
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours. It is lovely during the day and it lights up at night.
If you have money to spend near Kongresni Trg (Congress Square)
There are a number of restaurants and cafes surrounding the square.
Kongresni Trg (Congress Square) address
Kongresni trg, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 2GX3+WF Ljubljana, Slovenia
Peaceful square in Ljubljana Slovenia: Gornji Trg (Upper Square)
About Gornji Trg (Upper Square)
Gornji Trg (Gornji Square or Upper Square in English) is a quiet square in the Old Town of Llubjana. There are a number of shops and restaurants around the square as well as a couple of churches nearby. In the middle of the square is a fountain featuring a statue of upside-down fish. It’s a pretty area with a cobblestone street.
Why visit Gornji Trg (Upper Square)
Gornji Trg is charming part of the Old Town surrounded by lots of pretty and colourful old buildings. It is a peaceful area to stroll through. Additionally there are a number of shops and restaurants to explore.
How long to spend at Gornji Trg (Gornji Square)
5-10 minutes is enough time to walk through the square and take a few photos.
Opening hours for Gornji Trg (Gornji Square)
This free thing to do in Ljubljana Slovenia is open at all hours.
If you have money to spend in Gornji Trg (Gornji Square)
There are a number of shops and restaurants around the square.
Gornji Trg (Gornji Square) address
Gornji trg, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Plus Code: 2GW5+9C Ljubljana, Slovenia
Train to Ljubljana Slovenia
Trains are a cheap and also an efficient way to get to Ljubljana Slovenia. Ljubljana has a number of train stations. However the main station in Ljubljana and the one that has connections to other cities is Železniška postaja Ljubljana – Ljubljana Railway Station.
We recommend using the app and website TrainLine to book intercity train tickets between Slovenia and other parts of Europe. It is very easy to use with great functionality. Another great feature is that you can see days ahead to see what times of the day were the cheapest rates.
Where to stay in Ljubljana Slovenia
We recommend the following accommodation in Ljubljana:
- Best hostel in Ljubljana – Aladin Hostel is a relaxed hostel with friendly and hospitable staff. It is around 40 minutes walk from the city centre, but it is close to the bus to Lake Bled. The rooms and bathrooms are clean and the beds are very comfortable.
- Best B&B in Ljubljana – B&B Pod Vrbo is a family run hotel with clean, comfortable and modern rooms. It is a short walk from the city centre and has free parking on-site. Their breakfast buffets are fresh and delicious.
- Best mid-range hotel in Ljubljana – Hotel Heritage is an incredible boutique hotel in the heart of Ljubljana. The hotel has been beautifully restored with classic yet modern rooms. Everything is spotlessly clean and extremely comfortable. Their breakfast selection is excellent and the staff are friendly and efficient.
- Best luxury hotel in Ljubljana – Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel is a real treat. Each of their rooms is unique and immaculate. The beds are extremely comfortable and the amenities are of the highest quality. The staff provide exceptional service to ensure you have a memorable stay. There is also a lovely spa area that can be booked privately. The a la carte breakfasts are varied and tasty.
- Best furnished apartments in Ljubljana – TiliaStay provides modern, clean and well-equipped accommodation in a central location. The apartments have beautiful views of the mountains and the city. The hosts are very helpful and easy to communicate with. There is also a free parking space in the garage. Additionally, the sauna is a real treat.
Ljubljana Slovenia Blogs
For more information on Ljubljana, check out our Ljubljana Destination Guide.
Slovenia Blogs
You can find our Slovenia travel blogs below.
17 Best FREE Things To Do in Ljubljana Slovenia (with map)
Ljubljana Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
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