Ljubljana
Ljubljana
Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital, is often overlooked when planning a European trip, but it shouldn't be. This charming city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture, with influences from both Eastern and Western Europe.
The historic Old Town area surrounds the meandering Ljubljanica River, with cafes and restaurants lining its banks. The iconic Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge are standout landmarks, while Ljubljana Castle watches over the city from its hilltop position. The vibrant Central Market is where locals gather to buy fresh produce and socialize.
With a population of just under 300,000, Ljubljana maintains a relaxed small-town atmosphere despite being a capital city. The city center has been car-free since 2007, making it perfect for exploring on foot. Ljubljana's commitment to sustainability earned it the title of European Green Capital in 2016.
Throughout history, Ljubljana has been influenced by various cultures. The city showcases a mix of architectural styles, from Baroque and Art Nouveau to the distinctive works of Jože Plečnik, who designed many of the city's most famous structures in the early 20th century. The locals are known for their love of outdoor activities, culture, and good food – all easily accessible in this compact but fascinating capital.
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Things to do in Ljubljana
Top things to do in Ljubljana by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in Ljubljana
Best hotels in Ljubljana:
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WUD hotel (budget hotel)
WUD hotel in Ljubljana offers a modern and comfortable stay just outside the city center. The rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with balconies overlooking the surrounding area. Guests appreciate the clean, stylish decor and amenities like flat-screen TVs and free WiFi throughout the property.
The hotel provides a good base for exploring Ljubljana, with public transport nearby to easily reach the main attractions. On-site parking is available for those with cars. A hearty breakfast buffet gets the day started right, though some guests mention wanting more variety.
For active travelers, WUD hotel has a fitness center and offers bike rentals - perfect for touring the area. After a day of sightseeing, the shared lounge and terrace provide relaxing spots to unwind. Overall, it's a solid choice for those seeking a pleasant stay at a reasonable price point near Slovenia's capital.
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Janez Rooms (homestay)
Janez Rooms is a cozy spot in Ljubljana, just a short walk from the beautiful Tivoli Park. The rooms have a cool "city chic" vibe and come with all the essentials like air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free WiFi. What's really great is the location - you're close enough to easily explore the city center, but in a quieter area where you can relax after a day of sightseeing.
The staff here are super friendly and go out of their way to make guests feel welcome. They even whip up fresh pastries and pancakes for breakfast each morning. There's free parking too, which is a huge plus if you're road tripping through Slovenia. Overall, Janez Rooms offers a comfortable home base at a good price point for exploring Ljubljana and beyond.
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Grand Hotel Union Eurostars (luxury hotel)
The Grand Hotel Union Eurostars is steps from the main square and famous Triple Bridge. This historic Art Nouveau building blends old-world charm with modern amenities. The rooms are spacious and comfy, with nice touches like bathrobes and slippers to make you feel pampered.
One of the coolest features is the rooftop pool and wellness center, where you can take in amazing views of Ljubljana Castle while relaxing. The breakfast buffet gets mixed reviews, but the Grand Union Café is a must-visit spot to soak in the atmosphere. Location-wise, it's perfect for exploring the Old Town on foot.
While it's not the cheapest option in town, most guests find the Grand Hotel Union Eurostars worth the splurge for the prime location and upscale vibe. Just be sure to book the wellness facilities in advance if you want to use them during your stay.
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Premier Hotel Slon (medium range hotel)
The Premier Hotel Slon is steps away from all the main sights. It's got a great location for exploring the charming old town on foot. The rooms are pretty comfy and modern, with nice touches like coffee makers and minibars.
One of the best things about this place is the breakfast - they put out a huge spread with lots of choices to start your day off right. The hotel also has a fitness center and spa if you want to relax after sightseeing.
Overall, it's a solid 4-star option if you're looking for somewhere central to stay in Ljubljana. The staff are friendly and helpful, and you can't beat the location for convenience. Just keep in mind it can get a bit noisy at night being right in the middle of things.
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Best hostels in Ljubljana:
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Turn Hostel (hostel)
Turn Hostel in Ljubljana is a great spot for budget travelers looking to explore the city. Located just a short walk from the main square and Ljubljana Castle, it puts you right in the heart of the action. The hostel offers dorm-style rooms with bunk beds, as well as some private options.
The vibe is friendly and social, with a common area where you can hang out and meet other travelers. The staff are super helpful with recommendations on what to see and do in Ljubljana. While the rooms are basic, they're clean and comfortable enough for a good night's sleep after a day of sightseeing.
One of the best things about Turn Hostel is its location - you're within easy walking distance of all the main attractions, as well as plenty of bars and restaurants. For the price, it's hard to beat if you want to be right in the center of Ljubljana without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind it can get a bit noisy at night given the central location.
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The Fuzzy Log (party hostel)
The Fuzzy Log in Ljubljana is a cool modern vibe with bright, open spaces that are perfect for hanging out or getting some work done. The rooms are pretty unique - they're made from recycled materials like poplar wood and designed to look like little cabins.
The location is hard to beat, just a quick 3-minute walk from the city center. You've got all the main sights and attractions right at your doorstep. Inside, there's a shared kitchen you can use, free WiFi, and fun stuff like table tennis and foosball.
One of the coolest things about this place is that it's totally eco-friendly and energy self-sufficient. The rooms are simple but comfy, with air conditioning and all the basics you need. Overall, it's a great budget-friendly option if you want to be right in the middle of everything Ljubljana has to offer.