Ljubljana is home to classic Baroque architecture, incredible food, and friendly people. Whether you are visiting for a few hours to a few days, there is a lot to see, do, and eat. This guide will help with your itinerary planning.

Where to stay

Staying near the town center offers easy access to the city. This apartment is ideally located close to historic landmarks such as the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, as well as numerous grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants.

I stayed at SIPPO Apartments and had a lovely stay. Our host was friendly, responsive, and provided free slippers and drinks upon arrival which was a fun touch. If you do bring a car, there is a reserved parking spot for the apartment.

Book SIPPO Apartments Here

Ljubljana is a walkable city and one you do not need a car in. There is a great public transportation system throughout the city, and there are many tours available to explore destinations beyond the city center.

Having a car provides the convenience and luxury of being on your own schedule to take popular day trips to Piran, Postojna Cave, or Predjama Castle.

Day 1: Explore, Tivoli Park, and Open Kitchen

Arrive at you accommodation, freshen up, and walk around Ljubljana and see some of the most famous spots to acquaint yourself with your surroundings. Be sure to stop by Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, Triple Bridge, and Dragon Bridge. This would be a good time to take a walking tour. This one here is a popular choice.

Enjoy a quick lunch at Klobasarna, located in the heart of Ljubljana’s Old Town, where you can enjoy a traditional Slovenian Carniolian sausage. Tip: Order the Ričet, an iconic Slovenia barley soup with the sausage!

Take a leisurely 15-minute walk from the Church to Tivoli Park and spend your afternoon exploring this stunning green oasis. As the largest park in Ljubljana, Tivoli offers plenty to discover. Visit their website for more details.

If you are visiting on a Friday, weather permitting, have lunch or dinner (or both!) at Open Kitchen, an inviting outdoor market where chefs from various restaurants come out and cook in the square. Find out more information here.

Enjoy gelato at Gelateria Romantika and stroll through the enchanting streets of Ljubljana.

Day 2: Day Trip

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at Papillon Bistrot. Enjoy a freshly made omelette that will give you the energy you need for a productive day ahead.

Spend the day outside of the city! While seeing Postojna Cave, or Predjama Castle are both classic places to see while in Slovenia, these places are heavily visited so keep in mind there will be crowds.

I would suggest something different such as a day trip to Piran, Koper, and Trieste, Italy. Piran is a small, beautiful, seaside city in Slovenia. Piran is about an hour and a half from Ljubljana and Koper is about 25 minutes from Piran. About half an hour from Koper is Trieste, a charming Italian village.

If you want to avoid a car there are numerous tours you can book here.

After your adventures, enjoy a delicious dinner at Meat Point, then take a stroll down the street to Le Potica for an authentic taste of Slovenian Potica. Potica is a rolled dough pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients. Inside the charming shop, the warm aroma of cinnamon fills the air.

Strolling through the streets at night offers an entirely unique experience. Stop by Julija or Lana’s Corner for a drink. The city truly comes alive after dark, so be sure to explore when the sun goes down.

Day 3: Canal Tour, Ljubljana Castle, and more

If you enjoyed breakfast at Papillon Bistrot head back there for another delicious meal. If you want something quicker, head to Lana’s corner for a cinnamon roll.

Start your day at the market, also known as Central Market, and grab some fresh produce.

Head to Ljubljana Castle and spend some time exploring the historic castle. You can buy tickets here.

Spend the afternoon walking through the streets, shopping, or spending time in one of the many squares or parks.

Take a canal tour with one of the many companies offering scenic tours down the river. There are beautiful bridges buildings to see and a view from the water offers a unique perspective.

For dinner head to Pop’s Pizza & Sport for delicious sourdough pizza or to Lana’s Corner for homemade gnocchi served with beef.

That’s a wrap on three days in Ljubljana! If you are heading to Lake Bled be sure to read my blog what to do and see while there.

Happy Travels!