Ljubljana had been on my radar for a while, but one time I read that spring was the best time to go, and it stuck in my head. I’d always remember at the wrong time of year, so I kept putting it off! Well, let me tell you, do not put it off. It’s one of my favourite cities in Europe, and I imagine it’s gorgeous whenever you visit!
It’s very green, totally walkable, cosy and a little quirky – the sun was an added bonus!
Very Green:
The Ljubljanica river runs through the centre, and you can relax on one of the many benches, or at a riverside cafe, or sitting on the grass or steps by the jetty. And as for greenery, there is no shortage! As well as all the greens dotted around, you have Tivoli Park, Castle grounds, Golovec forest, and the Botanical Gardens.
Ljubljana is surrounded by mountains – the Julian and Kamnik Alps, to be precise. Hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter. I want to see this place in every season! 😍
Not to mention how easy it is to get to Lake Bled from here!
Totally Walkable:
Slovenia’s capital is easy to get around. It’s well connected by buses and trains. But also, a pleasure to walk around! Everything is pretty central, and it’s a scenic walk past pink churches and love lock bridges.
Cosy:
It seemed like everything we were looking for was either along the riverside, or down curious streets, both old curvy paths, or high-end designer shops. There’s also a big market in the square, and everyone is so friendly with superb English. There’s a lot of nightlife here, and it’s nice to go for a stroll at night and see people sitting outdoors, wining and dining, enjoying life. It has a very safe and peaceful vibe.
A Little Quirky:
My mum and I have a thing for bridges, and Ljubljana did not disappoint! Our favourites were the Dragon Bridge (Zmajski Most), Triple Bridge (Tromostovje), and Butcher’s Bridge with the padlocks (Mesarski Most). There are a few more but these are the most popular ones downtown.
Then there’s Metalkova. I was thinking it would be similar to Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen, but a lot of it was hidden behind scaffolding, and it was eerily quiet, not many around. But I reckon it would have a bit more life in the summer, perhaps. If you’re by the railway station, you may as well pop over!
There’s also The Faces of Locksmith Street – a tiny street with silly bronze faces running down the middle of it. Apparently there were 700, but maybe some were taken as souvenirs because there doesn’t seem to be so many now!
Oh, and a dude with an emu. Naturally.
