LjubljanaSlovenia

Ljubljana is a friendly city, where old meets new effortlessly. This 5,000-year-old cultural heart of Slovenia straddles the Ljubljanica River. In this popular vacation destination, find cafés, galleries, museums and theaters scattered along cobblestoned streets lined with art nouveau and Baroque masterpieces.

Start at Prešeren Square, the city center’s focus, framed by landmarks including the 17th-century Franciscan Church of Annunciation. Watch street performers from a café terrace or the steps of the Prešeren Monument. From here, streets lead deeper into the city center and bridges cross the river to the medieval Old Town.

Triple Bridge, one of many city monuments designed by Slovene architect Jože Plečnik, is the Old Town’s historic gateway. Cross the bridge and stroll through the riverfront halls of the Central Market to Dragon Bridge. Appreciate works by Italian artists at the St. Nicholas’ Cathedral. Stroll along café-lined lanes to the Town Hall. Notice a replica of the Robba Fountain.

Ride the funicular to the mighty Ljubljana Castle for sweeping city views from the castle’s watchtower and battlements. Visit a former prison and browse exhibits on topics ranging from puppetry to Slovene history.

On the river’s northwest banks, visit Congress Square and see a performance at the Slovenian Philharmonic building. Marvel at the National and University Library of Slovenia, one of Plečnik’s finest achievements. The National Gallery of Slovenia has paintings by national and European masters. Discover archaeology and ethnography treasures at the National Museum of Slovenia.

Spend an evening at Metelkova, a former military barracks, now a district filled with alternative culture. Near the district are the Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova and Slovene Ethnographic Museum.

Ljubljana’s warm, sunny summers are ideal for exploring Tivoli Park and cruising on the Ljubljanica River. In winter, mingle at cozy Christmas markets.

Reach Ljubljana by flying to Ljubljana Airport or taking a romantic train ride from Venice or Vienna. Purchase the Ljubljana Card for free admission to major city attractions and unlimited city bus travel.