Ljubljana Anti-Tourist Guide

Here’s our Ljubljana Anti-Tourist Guide to make sure you take the best of it while feeling like a local

Ljubljana is the most populated city in Slovenia, offering plenty of activities and must-see places. From various museums and contrasting architecture to vibrant streets to roam around, and nightlife to party all night long. To help you explore the best of Lucerne, we invite you to check out our Ljubljana Anti-Tourist Guide to ensure you enjoy the city from the inside out.

First questions first:

How many days should I save to visit Ljubljana?

For a quick peek, we would say that two days is okay here. Want to experience Ljubljana without any rush and actually enjoy the vibe without checking the time 24/7? We suggest staying for three or four full days. It will be just enough to explore the city through a local’s eyes.

What are the main highlights of Ljubljana?

1. Ljubljana Cultural Scene

Ljubljana is a treat for art lovers! Here you can choose from plenty of museums and art galleries.

a) Must-visit Museums

• National Gallery: a collection of art acquired from the 13th onwards, it holds an impressive art collection and the exhibitions here will let you experience art of the highest quality. The museum shares many exhibitions and pieces from other museums around. So you will experience art from different places in one go!

• House of Illusions: a different experience from the average museum. The entire building is filled with optical illusions. From small contraptions to room spanning effects. Enjoy an experience like no other!

b) Nightlife in Ljubljana

• Orto Bar: for any rock lover out there, Orto Bar is the prefect spot. Local bands come and play live music here, which has ended up being a well known place for concerts and shows. It even has three floors!
• Žmauc: this bar is a hidden gem surrounded by large graffiti walls. It has a popular outside area where the locals like to mingle at night. During the day, it’s a lovely spot for coffee. The best spot to enjoy the night or cure that hangover the next day!

2. Where to eat in Ljubljana

Ljubljana’s traditional culinary scene mostly is influenced by the local traditional cuisine as well as neighbouring countries such as Italy and Austria. A local dish that we urge you to try is Kranjska Klobasa which is sausage traditionally served at important events. When it comes to places where to head, we have some special suggestions that are undiscovered by tourists:

• Café Romeo: this local gem is a modern and quiet spot on the city. The dishes have a twist though. They are Italian dishes with a Slovenian touch. The restaurant uses seasonal and local products to create local versions of typical Italian dishes. A different approach to well known dishes!

https://www.instagram.com/kulturhofhintermuseggigshid=ypj5eozufrck

• JAZ by Ana Roš: a local restaurant that used to be a pop up. now it has settled down in a beautiful building. It is a casual place with seasonal food and inspirations from the town of Kobarid.
• Kavarna Moderna: hidden in the basement of the Museum of Modern Art, you can find a lovely café. Whether on the steps of the museum, or inside their cozy underground, the café makes some really good coffee! When the sun sets, coffee is replaced by cocktails, making it a underrated bar. Ideal for a quiet and romantic evening.

3. What to see in Ljubljana

• Ljubljana Castle: the most iconic monument in Ljubljana is definitely its castle. Located on a hill overlooking the city, its a beautiful and impressive sight. The old walls hide a history museum. What’s more, there is even an escape room to take part!
• Old Town: take a walk through the picturesque Ljubljana historical center. 
• Central Market: this indoor market situated in the middle of the city is not only a place to buy local vegetables and meat, but here you can also find local dishes prepared to order. It is a good spot to try the local cuisine and try out seasonal products.
• Plečnik House: the house of a famous architect well known for its projects in both Slovenia and Austria. the style of many buildings in the city is thanks to his innovations an ideas he picked up along his travels.

Curious about what to eat in Slovenia? Check out our recommendations to try out!

4. Alternative places in Ljubljana

• AKC Metelkova mesto: this spot is a meeting ground for the underground culture in the city. Known for its musical events, theatre shows, and the nightlife that the local bar brings about. Mingle around he hip urban culture of Slovenia! 
• Botanical Garden of the University of Ljubljana: located next to the university, this cozy spot in the city holds an extensive garden with a greenhouse holding many varieties of plants. But the best part is the tea house that lies inside of it!
• Museum of Puppetry: this museum differs from the others by offering a different cultural experience. Slovenia has a culture of puppet shows and this museum shows its history. Its an alternative way of discovering the local traditions.

Like this article? Check out our Instagram and TikTok page to see more of these!

…