Ljubljana Slovenia 5 Day Itinerary

Here’s a 5-day itinerary for traveling in Ljubljana, Slovenia:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

  • Morning: Arrive in Ljubljana and check-in to your hotel. I recommend staying at Hotel Park or Hotel Central, both of which are located in the heart of the city.
  • Afternoon: Start your exploration of the old town by walking along the Ljubljanica River. You’ll see many beautiful bridges, including the Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) and the Butcher’s Bridge (Mesni Most).
  • Evening: Head to the Preseren Square (Prešernov trg), the heart of the old town. It’s surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. Try some traditional Slovenian cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area.

Recommended Restaurant: Restavracija 57

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Park or Hotel Central

Things to Know:

  • The city has a free bus that runs from 6 am to midnight.
  • Ljubljana is a very walkable city, and you can easily get around on foot.

Day 2: Castles and Parks

  • Morning: Visit the Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad), which offers stunning views of the city. You can take a funicular ride to the top for even better views.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Tivoli Park (Tivolij park), a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city. It’s home to many museums, gardens, and a small zoo.
  • Evening: Head back to the old town and try some local street food at one of the many markets.

Recommended Restaurant: Kavarna La Bareda

Recommended Activity: Take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Tips:

  • Don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony at the Ljubljana Castle.
  • Be sure to try some local Slovenian specialties, such as goulash or potica (a nut cake).

Day 3: Museums and Galleries

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Slovenia (Narodni muzej Slovenije), which features a collection of art and artifacts from throughout Slovenian history.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Modern Art Gallery (Galerija Moderne Umjetnosti), which showcases contemporary Slovenian art.
  • Evening: Head back to the old town and enjoy some live music or theater performances at one of the many cultural venues.

Recommended Restaurant: Gostišče Dvor

Recommended Museum: The Museum of Contemporary Art (Muzej sodobne umetnosti)

Things to Know:

  • Many museums in Ljubljana offer free admission on Sundays.
  • Be sure to check out the city’s many street artists and performers.

Day 4: Day Trip to Lake Bled

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Lake Bled, which is located just outside of Ljubljana. You can take a bus or drive there (about an hour).
  • Afternoon: Enjoy some time on the lake, and try some traditional Slovenian pastries at one of the many cafes.
  • Evening: Head back to Ljubljana and enjoy some dinner in the old town.

Recommended Restaurant: Mestni Restavracija

Recommended Activity: Take a boat ride on Lake Bled or rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside.

Tips:

  • Be sure to try some local Slovenian specialties, such as potica (a nut cake) or kranjska klobasa (a type of sausage).
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of Lake Bled from the top of Mala Osojnica Hill.

Day 5: Last Day in Ljubljana

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or browsing the many markets and stalls in the old town.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Metelkova Street (Metelkov trg), which is known for its vibrant atmosphere and alternative culture.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in one of the many restaurants in Ljubljana.

Recommended Restaurant: Restavracija 57

Recommended Activity: Take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Things to Know:

  • Don’t miss the lively nightlife scene in Ljubljana.
  • Be sure to try some local Slovenian specialties before you leave.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Ljubljana, Slovenia!