Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a heaven for hedonist. With its medieval castle, art nouveau architecture, and friendly locals, Ljubljana feels like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Day 1: A Day Trip to Lake Bled
Morning: Journey to Bled
Start your day early with a scenic trip to Lake Bled, one of Slovenia’s most iconic destinations. You have several options for getting there:
- By Train: The train from Ljubljana to Lesce Bled takes about 55 minutes and costs around €6.60. The train ride offers beautiful views of the Slovenian countryside, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
- By Car: If you prefer driving, the trip takes approximately 30 minutes. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
- By Bus: Buses run frequently from Ljubljana to Bled, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Tickets cost between €6.30 on weekdays and €2.10 on weekends.
Mid-Morning: Exploring Lake Bled
Upon arrival, take a leisurely walk around the lake, which takes about an hour and a half. The path is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding Alps. Don’t miss the chance to visit Bled Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the lake. The castle offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Slovenia’s history.
Coffee and Cream Cake
No visit to Bled is complete without trying the famous Bled cream cake (kremšnita). Head to one of the lakeside cafes, such as the Park Café, to enjoy this delicious treat with a cup of coffee (or wine) while soaking in the serene views of the lake.
Afternoon: Return to Ljubljana
After spending at least three hours in Bled, head back to Ljubljana. If you took the train or bus, you can relax and enjoy the scenic ride back. If you drove, you might want to take a slightly different route to explore more of the Slovenian countryside.
Late Afternoon: Strolling Through Ljubljana
Back in Ljubljana, take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River. The pedestrian-only streets along the river are lined with charming cafes and shops. Stop by one of the riverside cafes for a refreshing Aperol Spritz and watch the world go by.
Evening: Dinner and Nightlife
For dinner, taste local Slovenian cuisine and after dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center. The area around Prešeren Square is particularly lively, with plenty of bars and cafes to choose from.
Day 2: Discovering Ljubljana
Morning: Exploring the Old Town
Start your day with a visit to Ljubljana Castle. You can take the funicular from the city center, which is included in the Ljubljana Card if you have one. The castle offers stunning views of the city and has several interesting exhibits about the history of Ljubljana.
Mid-Morning: Museums and Markets
After the castle, head to the Central Market near the Dragon Bridge. The market is a great place to sample local produce and buy souvenirs. If you’re interested in museums, the National Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art are both excellent choices and are located nearby.
Lunch time
For lunch, you can grab delicious food at the Central Market, by Ljubljana river or you can stay in the castle area and visit Restavracija Strelec.
Afternoon: Metelkova and Coffee at Vigo
Spend the afternoon exploring Metelkova, an autonomous social and cultural center in Ljubljana. This vibrant area, once a military barracks, is now a hub for alternative culture, street art, and nightlife. Wander through the eclectic mix of graffiti-covered buildings, quirky sculptures, and art installations. Metelkova truly comes alive at night, but even during the day, it’s a fascinating place to explore.
After soaking in the artistic vibes of Metelkova, head to Vigo Ice Cream for a sweet treat. Located in the heart of Ljubljana, Vigo is renowned for its delicious ice cream and coffee. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some people-watching before continuing your exploration of the city.
Evening: Dinner and Drinks
For your final evening in Ljubljana, consider dining in the city centre, where you can enjoy street music and local food. After dinner, head to the rooftop bar at Nebotičnik (the Skyscraper) for a cocktail and a stunning view of the city at night.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ljubljana is in the spring, from April to May, when the city is lush and green, and the weather is pleasant. This period also sees fewer tourists, making it ideal for a more relaxed and authentic travel experience.
In Ljubljana, every moment is an opportunity for indulgence, every experience a feast for the senses. So come, fellow hedonists, and let’s lose ourselves in the enchanting world of Slovenia’s capital city. Until next time, živijo (goodbye) and srečno pot (safe travels)!