City, countryside, river: diverse Ljubljana

09.04.2022

Rome, Berlin, London - some cities are almost always on people’s travel destination lists. And then there are cities which are genuine hidden gems. This is true of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. With its lively cafes, Venetian flair and virtually car-free city centre, the university city is the perfect travel destination for all those who are seeking the holy grail of city, countryside and river.

Ljubljana is Slovenia’s largest city and was selected as the European Green Capital in 2016. The emerald-green Ljubljanica winds its way through the city’s sights, its banks playing host to the charms of city life. Freely translated, Ljubljana means ‘loved city’, and with good reason. If you’re visiting the city for the first time, it’s a good idea to plan a few things to do in Ljubljana.

The youthful, vibrant city

Ljubljana’s sights are ideal for exploring on foot, and won’t wear your feet out. Wherever you walk, the city serves up impressive architectural highlights, secret spots and natural wonders. 
 

Young fashionable woman sitting on a fountain in the old town of Ljubljana

City

Historic charm, youthful vibes

Ljubljana has certainly been through quite a lot, having previously been part of Austria, France, Italy and Germany - traces of which are still clearly noticeable today, making the Old Town so unique. In its virtually car-free centre you’ll find narrow lanes, castles and countless bistros, cafes and restaurants.

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The vast, green countryside

If you thought that combining a nature holiday with a city break was a contradiction in terms, a trip to Ljubljana will make you think again. Several of the most beautiful parks and most spectacular natural treasures are situated in the vicinity of the university city.

Relaxation in nature  | © Couple cycling in nature

Countryside

Instant relaxation in nature

Those who want to occasionally indulge in instant relaxation and breathe deeply for a change can get to the spacious Tivoli Park in no time, or alternatively take a day trip around Ljubljana. Jump on a bike or get in a bus and take off into the countryside.

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©Couple cycling in nature

The river

All roads lead to Rome, and many lead over the Ljubljanica. Perhaps the most picturesque of them all is the Tromostovje Triple Bridge, the most photographed Dragon Bridge, and the best view can be found by sitting in one of the cafes that line the riverbank.

Ljubljanica River by night

River

The Ljubljanica and its bridges

You get a slight sense of Venice when you walk alongside the Ljubljanica and cross one of the bridges designed by architectural master Jože Plečnik. If it didn’t go dark, you could sit forever in one of the pretty cafes on the riverbank.

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hotels: Hotel Ljubljana

Autor

Mei Lie Tjia

At the age of five Mei Lie Tja emigrated with her parents from Shanghai to Vienna. Since then she has been both fascinated and obsessed by Vienna. Mei  loves photo safaris in the chic, bohemian districts, discovering new cafés (espresso with lots of sugar) and writing short stories about magical Vienna.  Since she has become the mother of two children, she no longer has so much time for that – has however discovered a new side of Vienna. One which also has lots of surprises in store for families.

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