A guide to Ljubljana

The capital city of Slovenia is a remarkable place. With a population of just around 300,000, it is one of the smallest capital cities on the entire continent; big enough to keep visitors entertained, but not so big as to feel overwhelming and stressful. Boasting an array of old and modern architecture, a plethora of museums and galleries, and a river which flows gently through the center of town, dividing the city into two halves – the old town and the new town – it is fast becoming a traveling hotspot for those visitors with a knack for adventure.

Where to Stay

When staying in Ljubljana, there is a diverse selection of hotels, guesthouses and hostels to pick from, depending on your budget and length of stay. For those on a tight budget, there are also plenty of hostels available throughout the center. For clean rooms and free internet, check out the Alibi hostel or the Tabor hostel. For great value rooms with a free breakfast included, have a look at the Hostel Zeppelin. The best mid-range options include Antiq Hotel and the Pension Tavcar – both offering great prices and beautiful rooms.

But if the budget is no issue, check out the Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana: A spacious hotel with all the luxury amenities and fantastic service. Here you will find a mini-bar, air-conditioning, satellite TV and much more. You can also try Hotel Mons, which is unique for having a modern indoor gymnasium and a rooftop pool.

What to See

If you are trying to decide where to visit and what to see when staying in Ljubljana, you simply need to walk around. There is no equivalent of the Eiffel Tower or the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but every little building, monument and museum is worth checking out. Check out the famous Triple Bridge, stroll around the Old Town, take the tourist train up to the Castle or walk to the edge of the center where you will find the old Roman city walls that used to surround the city.

Where to Go

For museum lovers, check out the Museum of Modern Art, the Architecture Museum, the National Gallery (the best art gallery in the city) and the National Museum of Contemporary History to gain a well-rounded understanding of the capital. Also, visit the oldest university in the country – the University of Ljubljana.

Where to Find Entertainment

Of course, the city is not just a huge tour destination. For some good entertainment, you will find plenty of cinemas – check out the famous Kinoteka, which doubles up as a film museum and the highly cool Kinodvor. There are also opera houses and theaters for some more highbrow experiences.

If you just want to hang out, you should frequent some of the best cafes and bars in the city. The Café Antico and Le Petit Café are two well-known favorites. Here, you can enjoy a wide selection of coffees and good atmosphere. At night, check out the basement bar AREST and the aptly titled Cutty Sark — drinks flowing, great music and a fantastic atmosphere.