Unusual Ljubljana: 5 Things To Do In The Slovenian Capital

The capital of Slovenia is not just about its castle and the famous Triple Bridge. For those looking to explore Ljubljana off the beaten path, we have selected 5 unique places or activities that reveal the various aspects of this city.

Visit the downtown area along the water.

The first unusual activity one must do to visit Ljubljana off the beaten path is to paddle down the Ljubljanica river on a stand-up paddleboard or in a canoe.

The river that runs through the historic center of Ljubljana offers unique perspectives on some of the most beautiful buildings of the Slovenian capital, such as the famous Triple Bridge. This waterborne tour also provides an original journey right in the heart of the city.

Walk down the coolest street in downtown.

For those who are not sea-legged and prefer to explore Ljubljana on foot, another unique experience is to walk down Trubarjeva.

This street, filled with shops and street art tagged on the walls, is one of the coolest in the downtown area. It is a pedestrian street that Slovenians often use on foot or by bike.

You can start from Preseren Square, which is the central square of the capital, go to the end of the street, and return to the downtown area along the river. Trubarjeva Street is also a good way to reach Metelkova, one of the most unusual cultural spots in the Slovenian capital.

Go out on Friday night to Metelkova.

Metelkova is a former Yugoslav military barracks that has been transformed into an alternative cultural center. This underground venue, very popular with Slovenian youth, hosts artistic events such as concerts, DJ sets, and exhibitions.

Another unique experience not to be missed in Ljubljana is going out at Metelkova on Friday night. Despite its appearance as a colorful squat, this place is essential for partying in the capital.

4- Take a walk in the forest at Tivoli Park.

In a completely different style, Tivoli Park is also one of the must-see sites in the Slovenian capital. Not only is this park immense, but it also contains an authentic forest and two large ski jumping hills!

Climbing to the top of one of these hills, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the city. You can also take small paths and feel as if you're in the midst of nature.

Did you know that Ljubljana was named the European Green Capital in 2016 and boasts a green space larger than New York's Central Park? Moreover, the size of this green lung is larger than that of the city center itself…

5- Visit the Railway Museum.

For travelers who love trains and the history of rail transport, as well as for everyone else, visiting the Railway Museum is the last of the 5 unique things to do in Ljubljana.

Located 1.5 km from the city center, the museum displays about fifteen steam locomotives. Other relics of railway history are on display outside, in huge abandoned warehouses.

The museum is not well-maintained, but that's part of its charm, especially for Urbex enthusiasts and photographers! Its old and abandoned look is highly Instagrammable, just like the new mosque located not far from there. The contrast is striking between the old rusty locomotives and the brand new mosque with its modern architecture in pristine white…