3-Day Ljubljana Itinerary: Sightseeing and Shopping Extravaganza

Ljubljana, Slovenia

3 days

Interior of Cathedral Saint Nicholas
Preseren square
Dragon bridge (Zmajski most)
Colorful street
Ljubljanica river canal

About Ljubljana, Slovenia

Discover the enchanting city of Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, nestled in the heart of Europe. This green city, awarded the European Green Capital 2016, is a blend of rich history and modernity. Explore the medieval Ljubljana Castle, offering panoramic views of the city, or stroll along the Ljubljanica River, lined with outdoor cafes. Visit the vibrant Central Market for local flavors and the Dragon Bridge, a symbol of Ljubljana. The city's compact size makes it a perfect walking city. Don't miss Tivoli Park, the city's largest green space. Ljubljana is also a great base for exploring Slovenia's diverse beauty, from the stunning Lake Bled to the mesmerizing Postojna Cave. Experience the warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and the unique charm of Ljubljana.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Old Town and Ljubljana Castle

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Ljubljana's Old Town. Explore the boutique shops and local artisan stalls, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and gifts.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Slovenian lunch in a cozy restaurant nestled in the heart of the city. Sample local delicacies such as 'potica' and 'kranjska klobasa'.

Afternoon

Visit the iconic Ljubljana Castle. Take the funicular up to the castle and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the city. Explore the castle's museum and learn about the city's rich history.

Dinner

Dine in a riverside restaurant, savoring Slovenian cuisine while enjoying the beautiful views of the Ljubljanica River.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing boat ride along the Ljubljanica River, taking in the city's beautiful architecture and vibrant nightlife.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to Tivoli Park, the city's largest and most beautiful park. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and take a leisurely walk around the park's beautiful gardens.

Lunch

Have lunch in a charming café in the city center, trying out local pastries and coffee.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the National Museum of Slovenia, where you can learn about the country's fascinating history and culture.

Dinner

Enjoy a delicious dinner in a local restaurant, trying out traditional Slovenian dishes such as 'žganci' and 'potica'.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the vibrant Metelkova district, known for its alternative culture and lively nightlife.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Central Market, where you can buy fresh local produce and traditional Slovenian food products.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant, sampling traditional Slovenian dishes such as 'kranjska klobasa' and 'potica'.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Museum of Modern Art, where you can see works by Slovenian and international artists.

Dinner

Dine in a local restaurant, trying out traditional Slovenian dishes such as 'žganci' and 'potica'.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing walk along the Ljubljanica River, taking in the city's beautiful architecture and vibrant nightlife.

Attractions in Itinerary (7)

Ljubljana's Old Town

1
Ljubljana's Old Town

The old town of Ljubljana is a charming and vibrant area filled with narrow, winding streets, beautiful architecture, and numerous cafes and restaurants. It's a perfect place to explore and soak in the city's history and culture.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Ljubljana Castle

2
Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle is a key landmark of the town. Offering stunning views, a museum, and several attractions, it's a must-visit.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Tivoli Park

3
Tivoli Park

Tivoli Park is the largest park in Ljubljana. It's a beautiful place to relax, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll.

Parks
Attractions
National Museum of Slovenia

4
National Museum of Slovenia

The largest and oldest museum in Slovenia, it houses a rich collection of valuable objects. The museum's collections of archaeological, historical, art, ethnological, numismatic, and other objects are a reflection of the country’s rich history and culture.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Metelkova

5
Metelkova

An autonomous social centre in the centre of Ljubljana, Slovenia. It is located on the site of former military barracks and was squatted September 1993. The site consists of seven buildings and is 12,500 square meters in area, making it one of the largest urban squats in Europe. The site is named after the street on which it is located, which is named after the 19th-century Slovenian Roman Catholic priest, philologist, and unsuccessful language reformer Fran Metelko.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Entertainment
Central Market

6
Central Market

A bustling marketplace where you can buy fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.

Shopping
Food and Drink
Museum of Modern Art

7
Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art in Ljubljana is a museum for modernist and contemporary Slovenian art. It holds the largest collection of modern and contemporary Slovenian art.

Museums
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Potica

Potica

A traditional Slovenian rolled pastry with a variety of fillings, often served during celebrations and festive seasons in Ljubljana.

Kranjska Klobasa

Kranjska Klobasa

A popular Slovenian sausage made from pork, recognized as a cultural heritage dish in Ljubljana.

Prekmurska Gibanica

Prekmurska Gibanica

An iconic Slovenian layered pastry from the Prekmurje region, often found in bakeries and restaurants in Ljubljana.

Kremšnita

Kremšnita

A delicious cream cake that is a must-try dessert in Ljubljana, known for its puff pastry top and bottom, and thick layers of custard and whipped cream.

Žganci

Žganci

A traditional Slovenian dish made from buckwheat spoonbread, often served as a side dish in Ljubljana.

Kraški Pršut

A dry-cured ham from the Karst region, often served as an appetizer in Ljubljana.

Idrijski Žganci

A hearty dish from the town of Idrija, made from buckwheat spoonbread and often served as a main course in Ljubljana.

Zgornjesavinjski Žganci

A traditional dish from the Upper Savinja Valley, made from buckwheat spoonbread and often served as a main course in Ljubljana.

Refošk

Refošk

A rich, full-bodied red wine from the Slovenian coastal region, popular in Ljubljana's wine bars and restaurants.

Zelen

A unique and aromatic white wine from the Vipava Valley, often enjoyed in Ljubljana's wine bars.

Medica

A traditional Slovenian honey liqueur, often enjoyed as a digestif in Ljubljana.

Cviček

Cviček

A traditional Slovenian wine from the Dolenjska region, known for its light, fresh taste and low alcohol content, popular in Ljubljana.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Ljubljana, Slovenia is from late spring to early fall, specifically from May to September. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is vibrant with numerous festivals and events taking place, particularly in the summer. However, if you prefer a quieter and less crowded time, late April and early October are also good choices with mild weather.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

New Year holiday

February 8

Thu

Prešeren Day

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

April 27

Sat

Day of Uprising Against Occupation

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 2

Thu

Labour Day holiday

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday

June 25

Tue

Statehood Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

October 31

Thu

Reformation Day

November 1

Fri

Remembrance Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Independence and Unity Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Ljubljana is a compact city and most of its key attractions are located within the pedestrian zone in the city center. It's easy to explore on foot, and you'll find that many areas are pedestrian-only.

Ljubljana is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and paths. The city operates a bike-sharing program called BicikeLJ, which allows you to rent a bike for a short period of time.

The city's public bus system, operated by Ljubljanski potniški promet (LPP), is efficient and covers most areas of the city. You can purchase a rechargeable Urbana card to use the buses.

Taxis are readily available in Ljubljana and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from designated taxi stands. They offer a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a group.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt are available in Ljubljana. These can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

While driving in Ljubljana is possible, it's not recommended due to the city's compact size, pedestrian-only zones, and limited parking. If you do choose to drive, be aware that you'll need to pay for parking in most areas of the city.

Ljubljana's main train station is centrally located and offers connections to other Slovenian cities and international destinations. While not necessary for getting around within Ljubljana itself, trains can be a good option if you're planning to explore more of Slovenia.

Boat tours operate on the Ljubljanica River, offering a unique perspective on the city. While not a practical method of transportation for getting around the city, a boat tour can be a fun and relaxing way to see Ljubljana's sights.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Ljubljana, Slovenia as a first time visitor

1

The official language is Slovenian, but English is widely spoken in Ljubljana, especially among younger generations and those working in tourism.

2

The currency in Slovenia is the Euro. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets.

3

Slovenia is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

4

Ljubljana has a temperate climate. Summers (June to August) can be warm with temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). Winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 45°F (-1°C to 7°C).

5

Tipping is customary in Slovenia. A tip of around 10% is standard in restaurants, while rounding up to the nearest Euro is common in taxis.

6

Public transportation in Ljubljana is efficient and reliable. The city has an extensive bus network, and the Ljubljana Card offers unlimited travel on city buses.

7

Ljubljana is a very walkable city, with many of the main sights located within a compact area. It's also a bike-friendly city, with numerous bike rental options available.

8

Slovenia is part of the Schengen Agreement, so EU citizens can enter with a valid ID card. Non-EU citizens may require a visa, so check before you travel.

9

Tap water in Ljubljana is safe to drink and of high quality, so there's no need to buy bottled water.

10

Slovenia uses the Type F power socket, the same as most of Europe. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

11

Ljubljana is generally a safe city, but like any other city, it's important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and at night.

12

Smoking is banned in all enclosed public places and workplaces in Slovenia, including bars and restaurants.

13

Ljubljana is a green city with many parks and outdoor spaces. It's common to see locals and tourists alike enjoying these spaces, especially in good weather.

14

Slovenia is a foodie destination, with Ljubljana offering a wide range of local and international cuisines. Don't miss the chance to try traditional Slovenian dishes.

15

The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. Most places stay open until at least midnight, and some bars and clubs stay open until the early hours of the morning.

16

Ljubljana has a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theatres. Many of these offer discounted or free entry on certain days or times.

17

Slovenia is a relatively small country, making Ljubljana a great base for day trips to other parts of the country, such as Lake Bled or the Postojna Cave.

18

Ljubljana has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and apartments. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season.

19

Ljubljana has several tourist information centers where you can get maps, brochures, and advice on what to see and do in the city.

20

Slovenia has a universal healthcare system, but travel insurance is recommended for visitors. EU citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Basic Slovene to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Zdravo

Zdrah-voh

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Nasvidenje

Nahs-vee-den-yeh

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Prosim

Pro-seem

Making a request

Thank you

Hvala

Hvah-lah

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

Yah

Agreeing or confirming

No

Ne

Neh

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Oprostite

Oh-pros-tee-teh

Getting attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Oprostite

Oh-pros-tee-teh

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Ali govorite angleško?

Alee go-voh-ree-teh an-gleh-shko?

Trying to communicate

I don't understand

Ne razumem

Neh rah-zoo-mem

Having difficulty understanding

Where is the bathroom?

Kje je kopalnica?

Kye yeh koh-pahl-neetsah?

Looking for the bathroom

How much does it cost?

Koliko stane?

Koh-lee-koh stah-neh?

Asking for the price

I would like...

Rad bi...

Rahd bee...

Making a request

Help!

Na pomoč!

Nah po-moch!

In an emergency

Can I have the menu, please?

Lahko dobim meni, prosim?

Lah-koh doh-beem meh-nee, pro-seem?

At a restaurant

Water

Voda

Voh-dah

Asking for water

Beer

Pivo

Pee-voh

Ordering a beer

Wine

Vino

Vee-noh

Ordering wine

Cheers!

Na zdravje!

Nah zdrah-vye!

Making a toast

Good night

Lahko noč

Lah-koh notch

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or jacket (depending on the season)

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear (if you plan to visit the coast or spa)

  • Rain jacket or umbrella (for unpredictable weather)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport or ID card

  • Flight tickets

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (Euros)

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for organization

  • Tote bag for shopping

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Ljubljana, Slovenia, it's important to consider the city's weather patterns to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Ljubljana experiences a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer months, from June to August, are typically warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). This is a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions, such as Tivoli Park and Ljubljana Castle. However, do remember to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Autumn, from September to November, sees cooler temperatures and increased rainfall. The average temperature during this period ranges from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). If you're visiting during this season, it's advisable to pack a waterproof jacket and umbrella. Winter, from December to February, can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging between -2°C and 5°C (28°F and 41°F). Snowfall is common, making the city look like a winter wonderland. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Spring, from March to May, is a beautiful time to visit Ljubljana, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The city comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor events. Light layers are recommended for this season. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to pack appropriately. Enjoy your visit to Ljubljana!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -2°

January is the coldest month in Ljubljana, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports and crisp, cold weather.

February

7° / -1°

February is still quite cold, but temperatures start to rise slightly. Snowfall is less common, but still possible.

March

12° / 2°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to warm up. It's a good time to visit for outdoor activities as the weather is generally mild.

April

16° / 6°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy the blooming flowers.

May

20° / 10°

May is a beautiful month to visit Ljubljana, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

June

24° / 14°

June marks the start of summer, with long, sunny days and warm temperatures. It's an excellent time to visit for outdoor activities and festivals.

July

26° / 16°

July is the hottest month in Ljubljana, with temperatures often reaching the mid-20s. It's a great time to enjoy the city's parks and outdoor cafes.

August

26° / 16°

August is another hot month, perfect for enjoying the city's outdoor attractions. It's also a good time to visit the nearby Adriatic coast.

September

22° / 12°

September is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to visit for those who prefer less crowded tourist spots.

October

17° / 7°

October sees the arrival of autumn, with cooler temperatures and changing foliage. It's a good time to visit for those who enjoy hiking and nature.

November

11° / 3°

November is a chilly month, with temperatures dropping and more frequent rainfall. It's a good time to visit for those who enjoy indoor activities and museums.

December

6° / 0°

December is a cold month, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit for Christmas markets and winter festivities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Ljubljana is the capital and largest city of Slovenia?

1 of 10

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