Stunning Ljubljana is combination of a quaint and well-kept medieval old town at it centre with more modern districts radiating out in all directions.
Slovenia’s capital and largest city also happens to be one of Europe’s greenest and most liveable capitals. Ljubljana was awarded the coveted European Green Capital award in 2016.
Car traffic is restricted in the city centre making the leafy surrounds of the emerald green Ljubljanica River a very pleasant place for pedestrians and cyclists. In the summer months cafes set up terrace seating along the river making this an ideal spot to stop for a coffee, lunch or a wine to watch the passing parade.
Many of Ljubljana’s beautiful buildings and accoutrements are the works of one of the cities favourite sons, Joze Plecnik who was a master of early modern minimalist design. Attractive cities are often described as jewel boxes and is certainly true of Ljubljana.
Ljubljana Castle watches over the city and has been a distinctive symbol of the city for 900 years. The castle is reached by the funicular that leaves from the old town. The views over the old town and across the river are fabulous. The castle now houses a Michelin star restaurant, a very good casual café and several exhibitions including a new puppet theatre.
The city has many interesting small bridges; Triple, Dragon, Butchers and Cobblers. Triple Bridge is a special architectural feature of Ljubljana, it is made up of the old stone bridge from 1842 and two more bridges which architect Joze Plecnik added in 1931, providing an elegant entrance into the Old Town.
The Central Market is called the locals larder or Plecnik’s Covered Market. It is an open-air market, combined with covered market and small food shops along the river where the locals meet for shopping, eating and socialising.
Located 20 minutes from the ski resorts in the Alps and 45 minutes from the Mediterranean beaches, it is easy to see why Ljubljana has garnered such high praise in recent years.
