Overview to Ljubljana: Travel Guide and Tourist Information
Slovenia’s capital sits handsomely on the banks of the River Ljubljanica. Its galleries and museums mix with grand monuments and a jumping nightlife in an Eastern European package that’s only recently begun to get the recognition it so thoroughly deserves.
In terms of historical sights, the fantastic 18th century Cathedral of Stolnica Sv. Nicolas is undeniably impressive. But it’s arguably outdone by the castle which, perched on top of its hill and glowering down on the city below, provides a dramatic backdrop.
Culturally speaking, Ljubljana is a compelling destination: the outstanding Museum of Modern Art combines with the National Museum and Gallery to make the city one of the cultural capitals of the Balkans.
But historical grandeur and high culture are only a small part of the city’s appeal. Out to the east beyond the Museum District, Tivoli Park’s manicured gardens and attractive woods are a perfect place for an afternoon stroll.
The city’s heart is the lively main square of Presernov Trg and its backbone – which divides old from new – is the busy Slovenska Cesta. And down to the south, the charming, Baroque quarter of the Old Town is arguably one of Europe’s most underappreciated.
Eating out in the city is very reasonable by Western European standards. During the day, the food stalls of the Central Market make for excellent cheap eating, while at night the areas around the riverside are lined with reasonable restaurants and cafes.
Here, too, the streets of Mestni trg and Stari trg brim with bars and bustling cafés. Metelkova Mesto, meanwhile, continues to provide a less mainstream alternative, despite the efforts of the authorities to close it down. The former barracks are home to some of the best music, the wildest partying… and yet another excuse to experience Ljubljana.