Ljubljana Travel Guide: What to See, Eat, and Drink in Slovenia

Ljubljana is one of those cities that quietly pulls you in. A blend of old-world charm and modern energy, where riverside cafes, colorful facades, local markets, and winding streets invite you to slow down, sip something delicious, and explore at your own pace.

We spent several days discovering Ljubljana’s castle views, secret corners, and local food and wine scene. 

Along the way, we also made one of the easiest and most fascinating day trips from the capital. But before you pack your bags, here are the essentials to help you plan your own adventure.

Short on Time? Here Are the Key Takeaways:

• Ljubljana Castle is absolutely worth visiting. Take the funicular and skip the steep forest path unless you really want a workout.
• The Ljubljanica River cruise gives you a relaxing 45-minute overview of the city and offers a gorgeous perspective of the riverwalk bars and neighborhoods.
• Do not miss the Central Market, Klobasarna for Carniolan sausage, and traditional Struklji for dessert.
• For a one-of-a-kind local find, track down the raw cow milk vending machine. It is unforgettable and genuinely delicious.

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A Short History of Ljubljana

Ljubljana may look like a quaint fairy tale capital today, but its history stretches back thousands of years. The area was first settled in prehistoric times and later became an important Roman post known as Emona. 

After the fall of Rome, the city passed through the hands of Slavic tribes and eventually became part of the powerful Habsburg Empire. This mix of influences is why Ljubljana’s architecture feels like a mix of Central European elegance, Italian charm, and Slavic heart.

Slovenia declared independence in 1991, making it one of Europe’s newest countries. Even with modern energy and EU membership, Ljubljana proudly holds onto its own culture, language, and identity. 

Today, it is one of the cleanest, greenest, most walkable capitals in Europe and an incredibly easy city to fall in love with.

Ljubljana Map

To make planning easier, we created a map with all of the sights, restaurants, wine bars, and day-trip stops marked. Use it to follow our route or build your own.

Things to Do in Ljubljana

Ljubljana is compact, walkable, green, and incredibly welcoming. The moment you arrive, you feel the rhythm of the city. Cafes spill out onto the riverwalk, pastel buildings glow in the sun, and everyone seems to be enjoying life at a slower pace. 

Ljubljanica River Cruise, A Relaxing Way to See the City

• Price is 15 euros
• Rides last about 45 minutes
• Peaceful views of the city and local neighborhoods
• Great for first-time visitors

The Ljubljanica River cuts right through the center of the city, and a boat ride is one of the most relaxing ways to see Ljubljana. The ride glides through the historic center and out toward local neighborhoods where the river opens up and life feels quieter.

You see riverfront bars, shops, restaurants, and some of the prettiest angles of Ljubljana that you simply cannot appreciate from land. You also get to go under the iconic Triple Bridge (more on that next).  

I hopped on the first morning cruise with Zeleni Zmaj and ended up being the only person on board. A private boat ride for 15 euros is not something I will ever complain about. I was able to pay with a card on the bridge and it was super easy. 

Most boats run 45-minute tours for 15 euros per person and tickets are sold directly at the dock. This isn’t a guided tour, but just a chance to experience the city from a different point of view. 

If you are short on time or want a calm intro to the city, this cruise is an easy yes.

Triple Bridge

Triple Bridge is one of the most recognizable spots in the city. What started as a single stone bridge in the 1800s was transformed in the early 20th century when architect Joze Plecnik added two pedestrian bridges on each side. 

Instead of replacing the original, he expanded it into a beautiful three-bridge ensemble that now serves as the heart of the pedestrian zone.

What could have been a traffic fix turned into one of Ljubljana’s most charming pedestrian spaces. 

Today, all three bridges are car-free and perfect for wandering, people watching, and photography.

Dragon Bridge Ljubljana legend

If Ljubljana had a mascot, it would be the dragon. Built in 1901, Dragon Bridge was one of the first reinforced concrete bridges in Europe, and its bold, copper green dragons shocked the city when they were first unveiled. 

The legend says the dragons wag their tails when a virgin crosses. Believe it or not, the dragons have become one of the most photographed icons of Ljubljana.

Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle sits on a hill overlooking the entire city and has watched over the capital for nearly 900 years. Originally a medieval fortress, it evolved through the centuries as a defensive stronghold, military base, and even a prison. 

The first fortifications were built in the 11th century and expanded through the medieval period. The Habsburgs shaped much of what you see today, especially during the 15th and 16th centuries when it served as a strategic defensive post. As warfare changed, the castle fell out of military use and was restored in the 20th century into the lively landmark it is now.

Today, it is a mix of free and ticketed exhibits, panoramic viewpoints, and small museums, including a puppet gallery. 

The views over Ljubljana are the star of the show. Terracotta rooftops, the curve of the river, and the Slovenian Alps in the distance create one of the prettiest cityscapes in Central Europe.

Ljubljana Castle funicular vs walking

There are two ways up to Ljubljana Castle. A forested walking trail and the funicular that lifts you from Old Town to the castle gates.

After doing both, here is the honest breakdown.

The Walk

There are 2 trails to get up to the castle. Both trails are shaded but steep, narrow, and washed out in parts. It feels more like a short hike than a city stroll and can get crowded. If you like uphill climbs, you may enjoy it, but it is not the easiest route.

The Funicular

Smooth, quick, and drops you right at the top with minimal uphill walking. For most travelers, especially those visiting in hot weather or with limited time, the Ljubljana Castle Funicular is the better choice.

Where to Eat and Drink in Ljubljana

Ljubljana has an exciting food scene that mixes traditional Slovenian dishes with modern flavors. From fresh produce markets to fast food bakeries and castle dinners, here is everything we tried and loved.

Ljubljana Central Market Street Food

Ljubljana Central Market has been a part of city life since Roman times and is still the best place to taste Slovenia’s local flavors. Stalls overflow with fruit, vegetables, herbs, cheeses, flowers, and handmade goods. Between the vendors, you will find food trucks serving everything from burgers to traditional Slovenian pita.

We grabbed a pita sandwich and the local Ćevapčići (grilled minced meat sausages) from a food truck filled with a bell pepper and eggplant sauce that tasted smoky, fresh, and way more flavorful than expected. If you want an easy, affordable lunch, start here.

Slovenian Fast Food Pastries

Slovenia has its own version of grab-and-go street food that looks a little like spanakopita but tastes completely different. These pastries are flaky, greasy, and hot from the oven. We tried a cheese burek and a spinach burek from Burek Olimpija and loved them, but one pastry can easily feed two people.

This is a local chain, so you will see multiple locations in the city. It is a quick, cheap, and delicious snack between sightseeing.

Klobasarna: Carniolan Sausage in Ljubljana

If you want iconic Slovenian flavor, head to Klobasarna. 

Their Carniolan sausage is smoky, juicy, and served with mustard, horseradish, and a warm roll. It is fast, affordable, cozy, and perfect for a casual lunch. 

This is one of the best traditional food stops in Ljubljana and is absolutely worth prioritizing.

Struklji, A Traditional Slovenian Dessert

Struklji is a traditional rolled dumpling-style dessert with sweet or savory fillings. We tried the cottage cheese, tarragon, and walnut versions and they were soft, creamy, and slightly herbal in the best way. Do not picture American cottage cheese. 

Think ricotta texture but richer and smoother. It is a perfect pairing with Slovenian wine or with milk from a vending machine (more on that in a minute).

Fine Dining at the Castle, Gostilna na Gradu

For a splurge night, we booked the tasting menu at Gostilna na Gradu inside the Ljubljana Castle courtyard. The price was only 49 euros per person for a four-course menu plus an amuse-bouche and a surprise dessert. 

Slovenia is filled with fantastic restaurants, but this dinner was one of our favorites of the trip.

Our menu included beef rolls with goat cheese and hazelnuts, cuttlefish pasta with smoked trout, a beef main with creamy polenta and shaved truffle, and two beautifully presented desserts. The wine list is extensive and features plenty of local varieties.

Raw Milk Vending Machines

One of the most unique finds of all was a raw cow milk vending machine. For 30 cents, you buy a bottle, then fill it with unpasteurized milk for about 1 euro and 30 cents. 

It tastes fresh, creamy, and pairs extremely well with that Struklji dessert. This is the kind of local gem that makes travel fun.

Wine Bars in Ljubljana

Ljubljana has several wine bars that highlight the incredible white wines Slovenia is famous for, along with sparkling and light reds. 

But Slovenia is famous for orange wine, the oldest style of wine production. It drinks like a mix of a white and a red, with freshness, grip, and enough complexity to keep things interesting. 

If you want to try one while in Slovenia, this is the perfect place to start.

Wine Bar Šuklje

Wine Bar Šuklje is one of the best places in Ljubljana to taste your way through Slovenia’s wine regions without ever leaving your seat. Their by-the-glass list rotates often and highlights everything from crisp whites to bold reds to fun, lesser-known bottles you probably have not tried before. 

They have more than 600 bottles and a 30-page menu. The staff here is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on your usual palate. 

It feels approachable, cozy, and perfect for easing into Slovenia’s wine scene. If you only have time for one wine bar, Šuklje is a strong contender.

Dvorni Bar

Dvorni Bar is a lively wine bar along the river that combines a massive wine list with a relaxed, social atmosphere. They pour a wide range of Slovenian wines, including producers you will not commonly find outside the country, plus international bottles if you want to mix things up. 

This is a great spot for groups or anyone who loves tasting flights, since their menu is built for exploring different styles side by side. On a warm day, grab a seat outside and enjoy the river views while sipping something new. It is casual, fun, and an easy win for wine lovers.

Vinoteka Movia

Vinoteka Movia is the go-to spot if you want a deep dive into one of Slovenia’s most iconic wineries. Movia’s wines are known for being expressive, elegant, and rooted in tradition, and this tasting room gives you a chance to sample them in a focused, intimate setting. 

The staff is extremely passionate about the winemaking philosophy behind each bottle and will happily walk you through the stories and techniques that make Movia special. This is the kind of place where you can really savor and appreciate craftsmanship. If you enjoy learning about wine while you taste, Vinoteka Movia is a must.

Want to Taste Ljubljana Instead of Just Seeing It?

If food and wine are part of why you’re visiting Ljubljana, these small-group tours are an easy way to experience the city with a local.

They’re walkable, relaxed, and perfect if you want context, stories, and great drinks without overplanning.

Watch Our Ljubljana Travel Video

Want to see Ljubljana in motion? Here is our full travel vlog where we explore the castle, cruise the river, try local food, and experience a splurge-worthy castle dinner.

Best Day Trips from Ljubljana

Ljubljana makes a fantastic home base for exploring Slovenia. These two day trips are easy, scenic, and perfect additions to your itinerary.

Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle is one of the most dramatic fortresses in Europe, built directly into the mouth of a cave halfway up a cliff. It is about one hour from Ljubljana by car and is incredibly easy as a half-day trip. Tickets start at 21 euros and the parking lot is far downhill, so be ready for a bit of a walk. But don’t let that deter you.

This castle has secret caves, medieval legends, and a rebellious knight who outsmarted an entire army. We have a full guide on it, so stay tuned for that one.

Lake Bled

Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most famous postcard views. It is an easy drive or bus ride from Ljubljana and is well worth the visit for its blue water, island church, scenic viewpoints, and lakeside walks. 

Because we explored Bled on a longer route, we will be sharing a full 3-day guide soon with everything you need to know.

FAQ for Ljubljana, Slovenia

How many days do you need in Ljubljana

Two to three days is perfect for first-time visitors who want to explore the major sights, enjoy the food scene, and take a day trip.

Is Ljubljana walkable?

Yes. The historic center is mostly pedestrian and very easy to explore on foot.

Is the Ljubljana funicular worth it?

Absolutely. It saves time and energy and drops you right at the castle.

How much does the Ljubljana river cruise cost?

Most cruises cost 15 euros for a 45-minute ride.

What food should you try in Ljubljana?

Carniolan sausage, Struklji, traditional pastries, seasonal produce at the Central Market, and Slovenian wine.

Ljubljana completely won us over with its charm, food, wine, and relaxed energy. From castle views and scrumptious food to wine bars and river cruises, we will definitely be back. 

If you’re looking for more Slovenia Travel Guides, we’ve got a bunch. You can check them out here:

• Maribor Wine Guide: Tastings, Cellars, and the World’s Oldest Vine
• Celje and Žalec, Slovenia: Castles and a Beer Fountain
• Predjama Castle Day Trip from Ljubljana