Picture this: riverside cafés strung with fairy lights, cobbled streets where every corner looks like a postcard, and dragons perched on bridges like something out of Game of Thrones.
Welcome to Ljubljana — Slovenia’s capital and a city that feels more like a friendly village with serious cool points. Whether you’re here for lazy river strolls, castle climbs, or craft beer-hopping, Ljubljana delivers big charm in a bite-size package. easyJet Holidays to Ljubljana
Memories in the Making
Start with Ljubljana Castle. Take the glass funicular or hike up (brownie points if you do!) — then soak up panoramic views and maybe sip wine in the castle cellar.
Cross the iconic Dragon Bridge, guarded by four fiery-looking dragons. It’s definitely not one to miss.
Chill in Tivoli Park, the city’s green heart. Pack a picnic or rent a bike to cruise through tree-lined avenues and rose gardens.
Wander the Ljubljanica River banks. By day, café culture and gelato; by night, cocktails, twinkling lights, and a lively buzz that makes you want to stay out way too late.
Foodie? Don’t miss Open Kitchen (Odprta Kuhna), a weekly street food festival from spring to autumn, serving everything from burgers to traditional Slovenian bites. Or order štruklji, stuffed pastry rolls that are basically happiness wrapped in dough.
To make it really magical, feast on hearty Slovenian dishes with live folk dancing, music, and traditional games at a Slovenian Dinner & Folk Night.
For the artsy crowd, hit Metelkova, Ljubljana’s alternative art district. Think murals, quirky bars, and live music — it’s grungy, colourful, and unapologetically cool.
Check out a day trip to Postojna Caves & Predjama Castle. Step into Slovenia’s underground wonderland, home to blind salamanders, before exploring Predjama Castle — a medieval beauty built dramatically into a cliffside.
Sip your way through Slovenia’s wine regions with seven handpicked pours, local bites, and sommelier stories with a Wine Tasting at Šuklje Bar. Or if you want to see it from the source, journey through Slovenia’s lush wine country, where Mediterranean breezes meet Alpine slopes on a Vipava Valley Wine Express Tour.
Want to see the city from river, street, and sky — cruise the Ljubljanica, stroll past Baroque gems, then finish with sweeping views from Ljubljana’s old skyscraper? Check out Ljubljana Boat & Walking Tour. Or if you want to do it yourself, grab The Ljubljana City Card. One pass, endless exploring. Ride buses, tour museums, visit the castle, zoo, galleries, and even thermal spas.
From Ljubljana, skip the hassle and head straight to Slovenia’s superstar lake – Lake Bled. Wander, row, or simply swoon over castle views. Want to go a bit further? Cross into Croatia for a taste of Zagreb’s charm and Samobor’s culinary traditions on a day trip to Zagreb & Samobor. Stroll riverside squares, sip local flavours, and discover two hidden gems in a single day.
Waterfalls, emerald lakes, and mountain passes — Slovenia’s wild side at its best. Dip into the Soča River or add rafting for next-level adventure at Triglav National Park.
Roll up your sleeves and make štrukelj, Slovenia’s much-loved pastry. Expect laughs, local liquor, and recipes passed down generations with a Traditional Cooking Class.
Fancy floating through Ljubljana on a boat while sampling craft beers from microbrewers? Bridges, stories, brews — what more do you need?
Explore Europe’s most dramatic underground river canyon, then swap caves for coast. End your day wandering Piran’s Venetian streets with Adriatic views on the Škocjan Caves & Piran Day Trip.
Trip Made Simple
Book Ljubljana with easyJet and you’ll get more than a city break — you’ll get a city that feels like home in days. With flexible payment plans, ATOL protection, and stays that range from boutique riverside hotels to modern city pads, it’s a win-win.
Fly direct from London and other major airports to Ljubljana Airport (LJU) in about 2 hours 15 minutes. Easy peasy weekend getaway.
From the Airport:
Car hire: 30 minutes into town.
Taxi: About €30–€40.
Shuttle bus: From €10–€12, takes 40 minutes.
Top tip: Can’t find flights into Ljubljana? Check Trieste (Italy), Zagreb (Croatia), or Klagenfurt (Austria) — all under 2 hours away. Perfect excuse for a mini road trip and maybe seeing another place within your holiday.
Ljubljana’s centre is car-free and flat, making it a dream to explore on foot or by bike. The vibe is slow, friendly, and never stressful. The airport is just 30 minutes away, so you can literally go from plane to pint by the river in under an hour. Public buses run everywhere, but honestly, the joy is in walking. Fancy something quirky? Horse-drawn carriages still trot around Old Town.
Best Time to Go
Summer (June–August): Festivals, buzzing nightlife, al fresco vibes.
Autumn (Sept–Oct): Golden parks, cosy cafés, fewer crowds.
Winter (Dec–Feb): Snow-dusted Old Town and Christmas markets straight out of a Hallmark film.
Spring (April–May): Blossoms, sunny walks, and great deals.
Restaurant Recommendations
Hiša Pod Gradom – In a beautifully restored historic townhouse, this restaurant is just beneath Ljubljana Castle offering rustic charm and Slovenian and Mediterranean specialities.
Kodila Gourmet & Bistro Market – Offering a “Taste of Slovenia Plate”, as well as local favourites and snacks, this place isn’t one to be missed.
B-restaurant&bar – International dishes prepared by a Michelin Star Chef. Sit on the terrace for your food or drink with a panoramic view of the city and mountains.
Local Tips
Pint price? About €3.50. Bargain.
The city uses euros (€).
English is widely spoken, but a friendly “Hvala” (thank you) is always appreciated.
Bring cash for smaller cafés and market stalls.
Day trips are easy: Lake Bled is just 45 minutes away.
Check out trusted tour providers like Viator & GetYourGuide for the best trips at great prices.
Ljubljana is the kind of city that sneaks up on you — small, laid-back, and endlessly charming. With dragons guarding the bridges, a castle watching over the rooftops, and a river that begs you to linger, this Slovenian gem is perfect for couples, families, or groups of mates. Come for the culture, stay for the wine, and leave already planning your return.
Leave a reply