Ljubljana Slovenia 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU) or Ljubljana train station
  • Take a taxi or bus (#28) to your accommodation in the city center
  • Check-in to your hotel, such as Hotel Emonec or Hostel Celica

Afternoon

  • Visit Prešeren Square (Prešernov trg) and admire the beautiful Franciscan Church of the Annunciation
  • Explore the nearby Triple Bridge (Tromostovje) and take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Slovenian cuisine at Gostilna na Gradu, try their famous goulash or Žlikrofi
  • Take a leisurely walk around the Old Town (Staro mesto) and discover its charming streets and picturesque squares

Things to Know

  • Ljubljana is a very walkable city, but you can also use public transportation (bus tickets: €1.20)
  • Be sure to try some of the local craft beers, such as Loo-Blah-Nah or HumanFish

Day 2: Castles and Markets

Morning

  • Visit Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski grad) and enjoy panoramic views of the city
  • Explore the castle’s exhibitions, including the Slovenian History Museum

Afternoon

  • Browse the stalls at the Central Market (Osrednja tržnica) and try some local delicacies
  • Visit the nearby Butcher’s Bridge (Mesarski most), a picturesque bridge lined with romantic locks

Evening

  • Dine at Most, offering modern Slovenian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Enjoy a relaxing evening at one of Ljubljana’s many riverbank bars, such as Ladenca

Tips

  • Consider purchasing the Ljubljana Card (€24-36), which grants access to many attractions and public transportation
  • Be mindful of siesta time (2 pm - 4 pm) when some businesses may be closed

Day 3: Day Trip to Lake Bled

Morning

  • Take a bus or drive to Lake Bled (approx. 45 minutes)
  • Visit Bled Island (Blejski otok) and ring the famous “wishing bell”

Afternoon

  • Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants in Bled, such as Vila Preseren
  • Take a leisurely walk around the lake or rent a boat and enjoy the scenery

Evening

  • Return to Ljubljana and dine at Slascicarna Smon, serving traditional Slovenian desserts
  • Explore the Metelkova neighborhood, known for its alternative culture and street art

Transportation

  • Regular buses connect Ljubljana to Lake Bled (€3.50-5.50 return)
  • Alternatively, take a guided tour or drive to Lake Bled (approx. 45 minutes)

Day 4: Art and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the National Gallery of Slovenia (Narodna galerija Slovenije) and explore its impressive collection
  • Stop by the nearby Modern Art Museum (Muzej moderne umetnosti) and enjoy its contemporary exhibitions

Afternoon

  • Attend a performance at the Slovenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre (Slovensko narodno gledališče)
  • Explore the trendy Šiška neighborhood, known for its boutique shops and cafes

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Manna, offering creative, farm-to-table cuisine
  • Relax with a drink at one of Ljubljana’s many cozy cafes, such as Cafe Olimpija

Things to Know

  • Many museums and galleries offer free admission on Sundays or Mondays, check their websites for details
  • Ljubljana has a thriving cultural scene, be sure to check event calendars for performances and exhibitions

Day 5: Parks and Hills

Morning

  • Visit the Tivoli Park (Park Tivoli), one of Europe’s largest urban parks
  • Explore the park’s many walking trails, gardens, and sculptures

Afternoon

  • Hike to Šmarna Gora Hill, offering panoramic views of Ljubljana and its surroundings
  • Visit the nearby Ljubljana Marshes Nature Reserve (Naravni rezervat Ljubljansko barje)

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Gostišče Lesce, serving traditional Slovenian cuisine
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the city, reflecting on your wonderful trip to Ljubljana

Departure

  • Return to Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU) or Ljubljana train station for your departure
  • Consider extending your stay in Slovenia or exploring other nearby destinations