What To Do In Ljubljana: 5 Must-see Attractions In The Slovenian Capital

Nestled between Italy and Croatia, Slovenia boasts a charming capital city. For those preparing to visit Ljubljana for the first time, here are 5 must-do things in the Slovenian capital.

Visit the historic center of Ljubljana.

Due to its geographical location, between Western Europe and the Balkans, Slovenia borders Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. The Slovenian capital, which has preserved an intact historical center despite the vicissitudes of its history, reflects various influences, notably Austrian and Italian.

Wandering through the heart of Ljubljana, around Preseren Square, you'll encounter an abundance of cafes and terraces, giving you the impression of strolling through Vienna during the Habsburg era. Another testament to the Austrian influence can be seen in the historic center's pink, green, and blue buildings adorned with floral friezes typical of Viennese Secession.

The Italian influence is noticeable in the baroque-style architecture of the Town Hall, with its 18th-century clock tower, and in the Fountain of the Three Rivers of Carniola. This monument is also known as the Robba Fountain, named after the Venetian sculptor who created it in the mid-18th century.

Stroll along the banks of the Ljubljanica.

To fully enjoy the historic center of Ljubljana, the second essential thing to do is to walk along the banks of the Ljubljanica.

The river that flows through the Slovenian capital is a tributary of the Sava, which flows into the Danube. It is also one of the major tourist attractions of the capital, with its three iconic bridges designed by the brilliant Slovenian architect Joze Plecnik.

This pioneer of modern 20th-century architecture has left his mark on the capital through multiple achievements. In addition to the famous Triple Bridge, he designed the national library and the covered markets, whose architecture is inspired by both antiquity and the Italian Renaissance.

The inhabitants of the capital also owe him the Trnovo Quay, which is probably the most beautiful walk to be had on the banks of the river.

3- Visit Ljubljana Castle.

Among the 5 must-see places in the Slovenian capital, one must certainly mention the castle or Ljubljanski Grad. This 12th-century fortress stands atop a hill in the city center.

It is easily accessible on foot or by funicular to enjoy the panoramic view of the city. The most beautiful panorama can be admired from the watchtower and the castle walls.

This famous building, generally considered the main attraction of the capital, also houses a museum, two restaurants, and a café.

Go shopping at the Central Market.

Curious visitors eager to discover the best specialties from Slovenian producers should definitely take a stroll through the Central Market. There, one can find bakers, cheesemakers, butchers, delicatessen vendors, fishmongers, and even florists!

This market, consisting of an open-air square and covered buildings, is an essential meeting point for locals. The people of Ljubljana like to gather there and do their shopping.

Be sure not to miss entering the covered market, whose buildings were designed by the famous architect Joze Plecnik. This place is still shielded from the tourist crowds, as the immense building at the center of the market is accessed through a small door.

In the warmer months, from mid-March to the end of October, this market becomes the setting for a popular event called "Open Kitchen" (Odprta kuhna). Every Friday, around fifty stalls offer take-away dishes catering to all tastes, featuring Slovenian specialties as well as Chinese or Argentinean dishes, not to mention pizzas and burgers.

5- Go admire the Dragon Bridge.

It is impossible to list the iconic landmarks of the Slovenian capital without mentioning the Dragon Bridge. No one leaves the city without having admired and photographed it!

This historic monument, built between 1900 and 1901 for the jubilee of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, owes its name to the four statues that adorn its extremities. These mythical creatures were not chosen at random, since the dragon is the symbol of the city.

At the time of its construction, this structure was one of the first bridges in Europe to be built with reinforced concrete. Today, this dragon-adorned bridge has become an emblem of Ljubljana, and tourists commonly take photos under the wings of these fierce guardians.