Stroll around this cobbled city

The largest city in Slovenia, Ljubljana is the country’s enchanting capital. Germanic, Latin and Slavic influences can be found in the architecture, culture and cuisine. The Old City positioned at the heart of Ljubljana is a beguiling area of distinctive Baroque and Art Nouveau styles; tour the grand buildings of St. Peter's Church and the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation. St. Nicholas Cathedral and Ljubljana’s Town Hall overlook Cyril and Methodius Square. Watch the river Ljubljanica calmly flow by from the Dragon Bridge and take the funicular to the castle. A regal seat, fort, army stronghold, prison and now a top tourist attraction, Ljubljana Castle is a popular venue for cultural events. Classical music is a large part of Slovenian life and, with four orchestras based in the city, you should try to catch a performance on your trip. Enjoy the weekly antiques market, browse the stalls and pick up a gift to take home.

Why Go?

With over 15 museums and almost 50 art galleries, Ljubljana is a cultural epicentre and the capital city of Slovenia. Push past the contemporary business district to the historic cobbled streets, ornate bridges and grand monuments of the Old City. Baroque, Art Nouveau and Gothic architecture overlook the town square.

When to Go?

The climate in Ljubljana is typical of the seasons with cold winters and warm humid summers. Rain is consistent throughout the year with September and October being particularly wet. Travellers to Ljubljana can enjoy highs of 30°C in June-July. Winters are frosty with guaranteed snowfall in December and January; Ljubljana is busy during these months holding Christmas markets and festivals and is considered the best time to visit. Wrap up as freezing fog is common.

How to Get There?

Ljubljana Airport is located 26km (16 miles) to the north; it is the only airport to serve the capital city. Direct flights are available from the UK and several European destinations including Paris, Prague and Budapest. Passengers can take a bus from the terminal building to the city centre. Flights from the UK to Ljubljana take just over 2 hours. The Ljubljana railway links Slovenia to nearby Croatia, Italy and Hungary.

Must See

A highlight of any trip to Slovenia’s capital is Ljubljana Zoo. Rise early and spend a day getting up close to elephants, giraffes, monkeys and bears. Interactive experiences encourage visitors to feed and sometimes pet the zoo’s residents. Guided tours and educational lessons are available. At night, head on foot into the Old City for the best in Slovenian restaurants; sample a dish of njoki or zlikrofi and enjoy a glass of beer. Wander across the Triple Bridge to a stall selling roast chestnuts and climb Ljubljana’s castle hill for a sweeping panorama, even at night.