This article, “The Top Attraction in Ljubljana,” will show you some significant sites when visiting the Slovenian capital. Furthermore, we will also reveal why you should see them. So, if you want to know which ones they are, please read our article.
©Photo Dunja Wedam
Top Attractions in Ljubljana
Although the city isn’t as jam-packed with attractions as many other European destinations, you won’t run out of fun things to do. Here are a few suggestions for some relaxed yet enjoyable Ljubljana activities.
Note: We suggest reading our Ljubljana Guide for more information about Ljubljana.
Get the Ljubljana Card! Choose a 24, 48, or 72-hour pass and gain access to Ljubljana’s main attractions. You’ll also receive tours, such as a guided walking tour and a boat cruise. You’ll have 24-hour access to the city’s Wifi network and unlimited free travel on the city buses.
Triple Bridge
The Tromostovje, or Triple Bridge, is a trio of Prešeren Square bridges that cross the Ljubljanica River. The central bridge is the oldest one, made of limestone, connecting the historic Old Town with the modern side of Ljubljana. The other two concrete bridges were added almost 90 years later, in the 1930s. Each pedestrian-only bridge is adorned with elegant lanterns and balustrade panels. It would help if you visited the place in the evening, as the entire area is magically illuminated.
©Ivan/Visit Ljubljana
Prešeren Square
This famous public square in Ljubljana was formerly the meeting point for several roads leading to one of the city’s old gates, named after Slovenia’s national poet, France Prešeren. More importantly, the square is a popular gathering spot with a giant statue of Prešeren. It is a venue for summer concerts and events. Many exciting sights surround it, including the Urbanc House, a magnificent Art Nouveau building.
©Ljubljanski grad
Ljubljana Castle
Ljubljana Castle is a must-see attraction overlooking downtown Ljubljana. Explore Slovenia’s history in the exhibition and enjoy puppeteering at the Puppet Museum. Views from the Outlook Tower are stunning. Visit Gostilna Na Gradu restaurant for a delicious meal. The castle also hosts cultural events and family-friendly entertainment.
©Photo Dunja Wedam
Robba Fountain
Located in front of the Ljubljana Town Hall, the Robba Fountain, or the Fountain of the Three Carniolan Rivers, is a Baroque-style monument sculpted in 1743 and made of white Carrara marble. The Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi inspired it in Rome and represents the gods of Ljubljana’s three rivers: Ljubljanica, Sava, and Krka.
©Probakster
National University Library
NUK, the National and University Library of Slovenia, was founded in 1774 by Empress Maria Theresa. It is located in a building designed by Jože Plečnik, considered one of his most significant works. The library is a central educational and cultural institution and visitor attraction. Highlights include:
- The brick and stone facade.
- The colonnaded central staircase.
- The massive main reading room.
However, its planned expansion has faced challenges due to the discovery of Roman ruins, which are common in and around the city.
©aparl/Trip Advisor
Tivoli City Park
Tivoli City Park is Ljubljana’s largest public park. It has a beautiful rose garden, a greenhouse full of tropical plants, and Tivoli Castle. Furthermore, the park covers five sq. km and has a walking trail called Jakopič Promenade.
National Museum Of Contemporary History
The Cekin Mansion in Tivoli City Park is home to Slovenia’s National Museum of Contemporary History since 1952. It features exhibitions on the country’s involvement in World Wars I and II, life under socialism, and its independence from Yugoslavia. The museum is open every day except Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Regular admission fee for adults is €5.
©visitljubljana.com
Metelkova district
Ljubljana’s artists’ colony has several clubs that play thrash-style music, attracting a diverse audience. The clubs’ website is not in English but offers a refreshing alternative to typical dance clubs. The crowd values non-judgmental attitudes over a “cool” appearance. It’s worth visiting for the music and philosophy.
©Matej Kastelic /visitljubljana.com
Dragon Bridge
An iconic landmark in Ljubljana is the Dragon Bridge, which spans over the Ljubljanica River. The bridge is 33 meters long and is recognized for its copper dragon statues on both sides. It was designed in the Viennese Secessionist style and opened in 1901. Today, it is considered a protected monument.
The Legend of Ljubljana Dragon
The Ljubljana Dragon is a widely recognized symbol of Ljubljana. You can see it on various structures such as buildings, bridges, wall art, and car registration plates. Legend has it that the emblem was adopted after Jason, the Greek mythological hero, defeated and killed the Ljubljana Dragon while returning from his journey with the golden fleece.
©visitljubljana.com
Žale Central Cemetery
Ljubljana’s central cemetery, Žale, is a unique attraction known as the Père Lachaise of Slovenia. Over 2,000 notable Slovene figures, including the cemetery’s architect, Jože Plečnik, are buried here. The two-story arched entrance represents the boundary between the living and the dead. Inside, chapels and headstones in various architectural styles are worth a visit for their beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
National Gallery Of Slovenia
Explore Ljubljana while staying warm by visiting the National Gallery of Slovenia. The museum, founded in 1918, holds an extensive fine art collection from the 13th century onwards. Learn about art periods from the High Middle Ages to Expressionism. The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (8 p.m. on Thursdays). Admission to the permanent collection is €7, while temporary exhibitions cost €5. A combined ticket is available for €10, and admission is accessible on the first Sunday of each month.
Central Market
Central Market in Ljubljana is the heart and soul of the Slovenian people, providing a direct connection between rural and urban areas. The market offers a variety of products ranging from fruits, vegetables, and plants to meat, cheese, preserves, alcohol, and other homemade products. It’s worth noting that the market stalls are open every day except Sunday, with Saturday mornings being the busiest and most exciting time to visit. A visit to the Central Market is a must on any trip to Ljubljana!
©Photo Dunja Wedam
Ljubljana Cathedral
The stunning Ljubljana Cathedral is a Baroque masterpiece with a green dome and twin towers; that’s why we put it on our list of the Top Attractions in Ljubljana. Its frescoes and gold leaf embellishments are breathtaking, as is the extravagant pipe organ. Also known as the Church of St Nicholas, it’s closed between noon and 3 p.m., so visit in the morning or early evening.
The conclusion of the Top Attractions in Ljubljana article
Firstly, we’d like to state that we have selected only a few. Ljubljana has namely much more to offer. However, we’d like to hear a word from you in the comments below. Which attractions were your favorite?
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Feature photo credits: barcelo.com