Nestled between the majestic Alps and the idyllic Ljubljanica River, Ljubljana is the smallest capital city in Europe. The city is often overshadowed by its European neighbours, such as Venice and Vienna, yet it’s truly one of the most charming European cities. With a population of 280,000 inhabitants in the city, it is proudly recognised as one of the safest cities in Europe.
Ljubljana is certainly an underrated hidden gem that offers an appealing city escape. It combines a really chill, laid-back vibe with a welcoming atmosphere. Named European Green Capital in 2016, this small city on either side of the river is lined with historic buildings, picturesque bridges and a central market, whose distinctive appearance owes much to the great architect Jože Plečnik.
The charming city also boasts an extraordinary culinary offer, combining traditional recipes, locally grown organic food, the influence of the Mediterranean and modern techniques used by local chefs. Taverns, restaurants and cafés fill the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and the areas near the banks of the Ljubljanica, making them the perfect spots to indulge in local delicacies, mingle with locals and enjoy the scenery.
Brief History of Ljubljana
Ljubljana’s history stretches back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human habitation in Slovenia dating back at least 250,000 years ago. From the Neolithic to the Bronze Age, early inhabitants built their homes in simple huts, laying the foundations for the region’s long and fascinating history.
During the Iron Age, Illyrian and Celtic tribes settled in the area around present-day Ljubljana. Their presence continued until the 1st century BC, when the Romans conquered the region and established a settlement known as Emona. For a time, the city prospered, with public buildings and sturdy defensive walls transforming it into an important centre of life.
In 1335, Ljubljana came under Habsburg rule, beginning centuries of Austrian influence that would shape the city’s culture and architecture. Although Turkish raids brought economic hardship and population decline towards the end of the Middle Ages, the city endured further upheaval, including widespread peasant revolts that continued into the 17th century.
Ljubljana entered a new chapter in 1809 when Napoleon designated the city as part of French-ruled “Illyrian Provinces”. French rule was short-lived when Austrian troops invaded to reclaim Slovenian lands. Despite these political changes, the Slovenian language gradually gained prominence, helping strengthen the region’s cultural identity.
Ljubljana experienced a devastating earthquake in 1895. The disaster prompted extensive reconstruction, bringing new architectural styles and a fresh look to the urban landscape. Art Nouveau influences became particularly prominent, while the celebrated architect Jože Plečnik would later leave an extraordinary mark on the city with his distinctive blend of classical elegance and modern design.
The 20th century brought another turbulent chapter. During World War II, Ljubljana was occupied by the Italians and Nazi Germany. There was a strong resistance movement against the Axis powers, but the city survived the tragic event. After the war, Slovenia became part of socialist Yugoslavia, remaining within the federation until it declared independence in 1991.
After the dissolution of the federation, Ljubljana became the capital of the newly established Republic of Slovenia, one of Europe’s smallest nations. Since then, the city has undergone significant economic growth and urban development. Slovenia became the first former Yugoslav republic to join the European Union in 2004.
Best Time to Visit
Ljubljana is strategically situated in a spacious basin on the doorstep of the Alps, occupying a central position that makes it a crossroads to other major regions of Slovenia. The city has an oceanic climate bordering on a humid subtropical climate, with continental characteristics.
The best time to visit Slovenia’s capital depends on the activities you enjoy. Each season offers a different experience, from festive winter celebrations to outdoor adventures in the warmer months.
Autumn is undeniably my favourite season for travelling around Europe. From September to November, the weather is generally pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. September is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, as the city becomes less crowded and exploring is more relaxed. Do pack an umbrella though, as October and November are among the wettest months of the year.
Winter lasts from December to February, with January being the coldest month, when temperatures can drop to around 0°C. If you want to experience a winter wonderland in Ljubljana, December is undoubtedly the jolliest month of the year. Christmas markets are a big attraction, and the festive atmosphere is infectious. However, accommodation prices also tend to rise, so it’s best to book well in advance.
Spring runs from March to May, bringing warmer weather, although conditions can still be unpredictable. The city bursts into bloom, making it a lovely time to explore without the summer crowds. You can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and water sports.
If you’re looking for the warmest time to visit Ljubljana, June to August are your best bet. July and August are the hottest months, with average daily highs ranging from 25°C to 30°C. Expect the riverside to be packed with tourists, with something happening in almost every major street and square across the city. Accommodation prices are considerably higher during this peak season, so it’s best to book well in advance.
Getting There
By Plane
Ljubljana is well connected to several European cities by air, with many international flights arriving at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (Airport Code: LJU). Located approximately 30 kilometres from the capital, the airport offers several transport options to get you into the city centre.
You can take the shuttle van outside the airport, especially if you prefer a hassle-free journey straight to your accommodation. The shuttle pick-up is located near the parking lot. Tickets cost €14 per person, with slightly lower rates for groups. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes to reach Ljubljana City.
By Train
Travelling to Slovenia by train is another great option, especially if you’re arriving from neighbouring countries. Located in the heart of the capital, Ljubljana Railway Station is the country’s main railway hub, with connections to several European cities, including Zagreb, Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, Prague, Vienna, Graz and Budapest.
The railway station is about 1 kilometer from the Old Town. It is possible to take a 20-minute walk from the train station if you are traveling light and don’t have any bulky luggage. You can also opt to take a Bolt for a more convenient journey, which is more affordable than a taxi.
By Bus
Taking the bus is one of the most affordable ways to get around Slovenia. Arriva operates bus services connecting Ljubljana with destinations across the country, making it a convenient option for exploring different towns and cities. The Ljubljana Bus Station (Avtobusna postaja Ljubljana) serves as the main hub for intercity bus travel and is conveniently located in the city centre, right next to the railway station.
Slovenia is also well connected to neighbouring countries through international bus services. You can find routes linking Ljubljana with various European cities, including Zagreb, Milan, Vienna, Munich, Paris, Florence and Venice. FlixBus is a popular budget-friendly option, offering connections to many major cities across Europe. Whether you’re travelling within Slovenia or planning to continue your European adventure, taking the bus can be an affordable and convenient way to get around.
Getting Around
Ljubljana is a pretty small city, making it easy to explore on foot. Most of the main attractions are within walking distance of one another, so you won’t need to rely heavily on public transportation during your stay.
One of the best ways to explore the city is by bicycle, a popular mode of transport among locals. Ljubljana has a network of well-marked cycling lanes, and bicycles can be rented from the Slovenian Tourist Information Centre. The bikes can be rented for just €6 for 2 hours, €10 for 4 hours, and €14 for 8 hours.
For a more budget-friendly option, you can also use BicikeLJ, the city’s bicycle-sharing system, which offers an affordable way to get around. Simply register through the official website and pay a subscription fee of €1 for one week or €3 for a full year. You can then use a shared bicycle for up to an hour at a time before returning it to a docking station. After a five-minute break, you can rent another bicycle and continue exploring the city.
The Best Activities for a Day Trip to
As the tiniest capital city in Europe, it is easy to spend 2 days exploring this wonderful city and take a half-day trip to Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave. You can stroll down the pedestrian-friendly lanes of the dreamy Old Town to admire its iconic bridges, hunt for the dragons, hike up the castle, wander around the peaceful Tivoli Park and indulge in the city’s delicious cuisine.
Climb up to Ljubljana Castle
Perched on Castle Hill about 376 meters above sea level, Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski grad) is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Although the present-day castle largely dates back to the 15th century, the hill has a much longer history, when the hill summit became a Roman army stronghold after fortifications were built in Illyrian and Celtic times. From the castle, you can enjoy sweeping views over the Old Town and the surrounding landscape.
For a good exercise, you can take a 20-minute hike along the trail leading up to the castle. It’s a rewarding way to reach the top and enjoy the surrounding greenery. If hiking uphill isn’t your thing, you can instead hop on the funicular for a quick and convenient ride.
The castle was fortified in the 15th century, partly as a defence against Ottoman incursions. Over the centuries, it served various purposes, including as a military hospital, a prison and a quarantine station.
After falling into disrepair, the castle underwent restoration and redevelopment over the following decades. Today, it is a cultural attraction housing the Museum of Puppetry, the Slovenian History Exhibition and various photography exhibitions. For an even more memorable visit, climb the 92 spiral steps to the viewing tower, where panoramic views stretch across Ljubljana’s rooftops towards the distant Julian Alps.
Location: Grajska planota 1, 1000 Ljubljana
Opening Hours: January to July: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm/ August to December: Daily from 9 am to 10 pm
Entrance Fee: Adults: €15/ Children: €10.50/ Visitors with Disability: €7.50 (Additional €4 for adults and €3 for children for funicular railway)
Visit the Ljubljana Town Hall
Located in the heart of the Old Town, the Town Hall (Mestna hiša) has served as the seat of the Municipality of Ljubljana since the 15th century. The original building was constructed in the Gothic style in 1484, before being redesigned between 1717 and 1719 in the Venetian Baroque style by Italian architect Carlo Martinuzzi. Today, it also hosts free exhibitions showcasing the works of local artists.
As you step inside, you’ll find a sculpture of Hercules and the Nemean Lion in the vestibule. Meanwhile, the main courtyard is home to a fountain featuring Narcissus, created by the renowned sculptor Francesco Robba. These artistic details add to the Town Hall’s charm, making it a worthwhile stop as you wander through Ljubljana’s historic centre.
Location: Stritarjeva ulica 2, 1000 Ljubljana
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 7 am to 9 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
Admire the masterpiece of Robba Fountain
The Robba Fountain, also known as the Fountain of the Three Carniolan Rivers, stands in front of Ljubljana’s City Hall. Created by sculptor Francesco Robba, it is one of the city’s best-known Baroque monuments.
Three river gods hold urns that pour water into a shell-shaped pool, representing the three rivers of historic Carniola: the Sava, the Krka and the Ljubljanica. An obelisk rises from the centre of the fountain, adding to its grandeur. The sculptures currently displayed in the square are replicas. The original sculptures have been housed in the National Gallery of Slovenia since 2006.
Location: Mestni trg, 1000 Ljubljana
Cross the Triple Bridge
The Triple Bridge is one of Ljubljana’s most iconic landmarks. Designed by architect Jože Plečnik, the structure consists of three bridges that connect the modern city centre to the Old Town.
Originally, a single stone bridge stood here. Between 1929 and 1932, Plečnik added two side bridges to improve pedestrian traffic flow. Today, the bridges provide a convenient way to cross the river, and you can also walk down to the riverbank.
The Triple Bridge was inspired by Venetian architecture, featuring massive stone balustrades and lamp posts. From the bridge, you can enjoy beautiful views of Ljubljana Castle and the Ljubljanica River.
Location: Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 1, 1000 Ljubljana
Discover the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation
Located in Prešeren Square (Prešernov trg), the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation was built between 1646 and 1660. Its façade was not completed until 1706 and was later rebuilt in the 19th century. It is adorned with a copper statue of St Mary, the largest Madonna statue in Ljubljana, as well as pinnacles, pilasters with Ionic capitals and decorative niches.
The church was originally painted red to represent the Franciscan Order. Over time, however, its colour has charmingly faded to the distinctive pink hue that makes it stand out in the heart of the city.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a stunning frescoed ceiling, a marble floor featuring black, pink and white tiles, and an elaborate black-and-gold marble altar. Unfortunately, many of the original frescoes were damaged or destroyed when a powerful earthquake struck Ljubljana in 1895, causing cracks in the ceiling. New paintings were added in 1936 to restore some of the church’s artistic splendour.
Behind the church stands a historic monastery founded in 1233. It was home to Augustinian monks until the end of the 18th century. Today, the monastery houses an impressive library containing more than 70,000 books, including rare incunabula and valuable medieval manuscripts.
Location: Prešernov trg 4, 1000 Ljubljana
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10.45 am to 3.45 pm and 4:45 to 6 pm/ Sunday: 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm and 5 pm to 6 pm
Entrance Fee: €3 (Free for Visitors with Disability)
Take a glance at the Hauptmann House
The Hauptmann House (Vurnikova hiša) was built in 1873 and remarkably survived the devastating earthquake that struck Ljubljana in 1895. It was once the home of the local paint merchant Adolf Hauptmann.
In 1904, the house was redesigned by architect Ciril Metod Koch in the Viennese Secession style, a popular architectural movement at the time. Its façade and roof were transformed, giving the building a distinctive appearance. The highlight is its colourful façade, decorated with geometric patterns made from coloured ceramic tiles, which make this historic building stand out among Ljubljana’s architectural treasures.
Location: Miklošičeva cesta 8, 1000 Ljubljana
Watch out of the Dragon Bridge
The Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most) was built in 1901 and inaugurated to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph I’s reign. Designed by Jurij Zaninović, it was the first reinforced-concrete bridge in Ljubljana and is a fine example of Art Nouveau architecture.
The bridge is famous for its green copper dragon statues, which stand guard at each corner. Dragons are an iconic symbol of Ljubljana and allude to the city’s mythical origins. You’ll spot dragon motifs throughout the city, but the bridge’s imposing statues are among its most recognisable features. Along the bridge’s parapets, you’ll also find 16 small griffin sculptures mounted on the lampposts.
According to the legend, Ljubljana was founded by Jason, the hero of Greek mythology who stole the golden fleece from King Aeëtes and then fled aboard the Argo with his comrades, known as the Argonauts, across the Black Sea and up the Danube and the Sava until they reached the Ljubljanica. They reached a large lake in the marshes where a dragon was said to dwell. He defeated a fearsome dragon that had been terrorising the local villagers.
Location: Resljeva c. 2, 1000 Ljubljana
Be amazed by the impressive St Nicholas Cathedral
St Nicholas Cathedral, also known as Ljubljana Cathedral, is dedicated to St Nicholas, the patron saint of fishermen and boatmen. Designed by the Jesuit architect Andrea Pozzo, the cathedral was built between 1701 and 1706 in the Baroque style, with a floor plan shaped like a Latin cross.
The cathedral stands on the site of an earlier Romanesque church dating back to 1262. Following major fires in 1361 and 1469, which damaged much of the structure, the church was rebuilt in the Gothic style.
Further changes took place in 1461, when Ljubljana became a diocesan seat, increasing the church’s religious significance. Over time, the Gothic building was reconstructed to accommodate the needs of the growing population and the city’s evolving religious role.
One of the cathedral’s most striking features is its Slovene Door, a magnificent bronze entrance door added in 1996. It depicts Slovenian history and commemorates the 1,250th anniversary of Christianity in Slovenian territory, coinciding with the visit of Pope John Paul II.
The side entrance, known as the Ljubljana Door, portrays the history of the Diocese of Ljubljana. It features six sculpted bishops from the 20th century, wearing mitres and standing above the shrouded body of Christ.
The stunning ceiling fresco by Italian artist Giulio Quaglio depicts the Transfiguration of St Nicholas and covers the cathedral’s nave vault. Around the edges, scenes of Christians being persecuted under Emperors Nero and Diocletian unfold amid angels, apostles and other figures dressed in a variety of costumes and depicted in dynamic poses.
Location: Dolničarjeva ulica 1, 1000 Ljubljana
Opening Hours: Tuesday: 1 pm to 6 pm/ Wednesday to Saturday: 10 am to 6 pm/ Sunday: 1.30 pm to 3 pm and 4.45 pm to 6.15 pm
Entrance Fee: Adults: €3/ Children and Visitors with Disability: Free
Walk across the Butcher’s Bridge
The Butcher’s Bridge (Mesarski most) is a wide, modern, pedestrian-friendly bridge featuring glass panels in the floor that offer views of the river below. The bridge is also famous for its love locks, which couples attach to the railings as a symbol of their love.
You’ll also find intriguing sculptures, including the sorrowful Adam and Eve after their expulsion from Paradise, a wild-looking Prometheus and mischievous satyrs emerging from their eggs.
Get some local fresh produce at the Central Market
Built between 1940 and 1944, Ljubljana’s Central Market is an indoor market where vendors sell poultry, dried and fresh meat and seafood from the Adriatic Sea. It comes to its liveliest on Saturday mornings, when locals and visitors come to browse the stalls and shop for fresh produce. You can buy cured meat products, fresh meat, homemade bread baked in a wood oven, homemade biscuits and pastries, locally made cheeses, dried fruits and nuts and many more.
Outside the market hall, you’ll find a different scene where local farmers bring fresh fruit, honey, vegetables and flowers to sell. You’ll also come across stalls selling handmade handicrafts and clothing.
Location: Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 6, 1000 Ljubljana
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 7 am to 4 pm
Have a taste of Traditional Slovenian cuisine at Klobasarna
Perhaps one of the best places to eat in the Old Town, Klobasarna serves one of Slovenia’s most famous traditional dishes: the Carniolan sausage. It is served with a fresh Kaiser roll, mild mustard and freshly grated horseradish.
The knowledge of making Carniolan sausages originates from the centuries-old tradition of the winter pig slaughter known as ‘koline’, which is their ancestors’ biggest and most important non-religious holiday of the year. The sausage is made according to a traditional recipe dating back to the early 19th century. It takes its name from Carniola, a former Austro-Hungarian province of Carniola that comprised a large part of present-day Slovenia.
They also serve jota, a traditional winter stew made with sauerkraut, turnips, beans and potatoes. You can savour these hearty Slovenian dishes while admiring the beautiful St Nicholas Church and watching the world go by.
Location: Ciril-Metodov trg 15, 1000 Ljubljana
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 am to 11pm/ Sunday: 10am to 3 pm
Take A Historic River Crossing on Cobbler’s Bridge
Cobbler’s Bridge (Šuštarski most) is one of the oldest bridges in Ljubljana, although its original structure has been replaced several times over the centuries. It takes its name from the shoemakers’ shops that once stood around the bridge. The bridge spans a particularly beautiful stretch of the Ljubljanica River and features stone pillars with Corinthian capitals along both sides.
Location: Šuštarski most, 1000 Ljubljana
Take a break at the Congress Square
As you explore the newer part of Ljubljana, you’ll come across another major square known as Congress Square (Kongresni Trg). The square is a popular meeting point for social gatherings and guided city tours.
It is surrounded by several important buildings, including the University of Ljubljana, the Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity and the Slovenian Philharmonic Hall. The west side of the square has a remarkable Ursuline Church of the Holy Trinity, which can easily be mistaken for a Roman temple because of its impressive columned façade. If you have a chance to visit, you will see the main altar designed by the Italian Baroque sculptor Francesco Robba, which is made of African marble.
Step inside the magnificent National and University Library
Built between 1936 and 1941, the National and University Library was designed by Jože Plečnik and is considered one of the architect’s greatest works in Slovenia. It stands on the site of the former Ducal Court (Knežji dvorec), a 17th-century Baroque palace that was destroyed by the earthquake in 1895. The library houses a rich collection of medieval manuscripts, incunabula and Renaissance prints.
The building’s exterior reflects strong Italian influences. Its façade combines bricks and stone blocks with varying finishes, inspired by the Zuccari Palace in Rome. Each of the two handles on the main entrance door is decorated with a head of Pegasus, the winged horse from Greek mythology, symbolically guiding you into the realm of knowledge.
From the vestibule, you can enter the famous monumental central staircase, supported by 32 pillars of black Podpeč marble, which leads to the library’s grand reading room. Although the reading room is not open to visitors, you can glimpse its interior through glass walls that allow natural light to illuminate the wooden reading desks, Plečnik’s distinctive chandeliers and the bookshelves.
The library’s side entrance is topped by a bronze statue of Moses, created by Slovenian sculptor Lojze Dolinar. The building also marks the route of the former Roman and medieval town walls, which ran alongside the library and continued past the Glasbena Matica building across the street.
Location: Turjaška ulica 1, 1000 Ljubljana
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8 am to 8 pm/ Saturday: 9 am to 2 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
Cruise along the Ljubljanica River
Step aboard a handcrafted wooden boat and set off on an unforgettable journey along the Ljubljanica River. Listen to fascinating stories from the boat captain and unfold the old past of Ljubljana.
This 45-minute boat trip takes you to the edge of the wilderness into Ljubljana Marshes Landscape Park. The national reserve is home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. It also known as an archaeologically important area where pile dwellers inhabited these ancient lands as far back as 5200 BC.
The electric boat then glides back towards the Old Town, passing beneath some of Ljubljana’s most beautiful bridges and along Plečnik’s riverside architecture, with Ljubljana Castle rising above the city. From the water, you can discover hidden corners that are less noticeable on foot and enjoy a unique perspective of Ljubljana.
Stroll around Tivoli Park
Spend the morning exploring Tivoli Park, Ljubljana’s largest green space, and enjoy its gorgeous scenery, landscaped gardens and peaceful surroundings. Covering an area of approximately five square kilometres, the park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The park features cycling and walking paths, along with plenty of facilities and attractions. You’ll see many locals jogging, having picnics and walking their dogs, making it a lovely place to experience everyday life in Ljubljana.
At the heart of the park, a grand promenade leads to the historic Tivoli Castle, which now houses the International Centre of Graphic Arts.
Location: Tivoli, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Entrance Fee: Free
Enjoy Ljubljana’s Alternative Art Scene at Metelkova Mesto
Another neighbourhood worth exploring if you enjoy street art is Metelkova Mesto, just a 10-minute stroll from the northeastern edge of the Old Town.
This area was once a military barracks. Instead of being demolished, the former barracks were transformed into a vibrant cultural zone, filled with art galleries, studios and graffiti. Today, the district has an edgy, bohemian atmosphere that sets it apart from the rest of the city.
The unique Hostel Celica was formerly a prison before being converted into accommodation for backpackers. Staying here wouldn’t be my first choice, but travellers looking for an unusual experience can spend the night in rooms or dormitories that were once used as prison cells.
Location: Metelkova ulica 1000, 1000 Ljubljana
See the awe-inspiring Vurnikova Hiša
Vurnikova hiša or Vurnik House is considered one of the finest examples of Slovenian national-style architecture. Built in 1921, this brightly coloured building was designed by architect Ivan Vurnik in collaboration with his Viennese-born wife, Helena. She played an important role in her husband’s research and efforts to develop a distinctive Slovenian architectural style.
Helena was responsible for designing the building’s façade frescoes and interior wall paintings. Her red, white and blue geometric patterns that represent the colours of the Slovenian tricolour are blended with elements of Slovenian national imagery. These include stylised spruce forests, cornfield landscapes, vine plants and women dressed in traditional Slovenian costumes.
The interior boasts a spacious reception hall adorned with wall paintings and an impressive glass ceiling. Constructed from small blue glass squares, the ceiling also features a decorative strip incorporating pieces of glass from bottles of various colours. Meanwhile, the staircase hall on the first and second floors is decorated with stained-glass windows featuring geometric motifs.
Location: Miklošičeva c. 8, 1000 Ljubljana
Explore the impressive Predjama Castle
Nestled in the mouth of a cave near the town of Postojna, Predjama Castle (Predjamski grad) is a 13th-century fortress steeped in history and legend. Perched dramatically on a 123-metre-high cliff, the medieval castle has stood for more than eight centuries and is famous for its remarkable location and network of secret tunnels. Originally built in the Gothic style, it holds the title of the world’s largest cave castle. The present structure was rebuilt in Renaissance style after the destruction of the original castle.
Legend has it that the rebellious knight Erazem of Predjama, also known as Erasmus of Lueg, withstood an imperial army’s siege of the castle for more than a year. His conflict with the Habsburgs began after he killed an imperial commander, Marshal Pappenheim, who had allegedly insulted the honour of Erazem’s deceased friend. Fearing retaliation from Holy Roman Emperor Frederick III, Erazem fled to Predjama Castle. He later allied himself with King Matthias Corvinus and reportedly raided towns in Carniola and Habsburg territories.
In response, the emperor ordered the governor of Trieste to capture or kill Erazem. According to legend, one of his servants betrayed him by revealing his whereabouts to the besieging forces. Erazem was killed by a cannon shot while he was in the castle’s lavatory, bringing his extraordinary tale to a rather unfortunate end.
As you explore the upper levels of the castle, look out for a vertical natural shaft that once served as an escape route from the original fortress. During the siege, Erazem is said to have used this passage to bring food and supplies into the castle, allowing him to hold out against the imperial forces while continuing his raids.
Location: Predjama 1, 6230 Predjama
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 4.30 pm
Entrance Fee: €24 (Combined with Postojna Cave- General Ticket: €49.90/ Adults aged 65+ and Visitors with Disability: €24.95)
Marvel at the fascinating Postojna Cave
Postojna Cave is the second-longest cave system in Slovenia, stretching 24.34 kilometres. Its formation began around three million years ago, as water gradually carved its way through limestone that is approximately 70 million years old. Standing 16 metres tall, the “Skyscraper” is believed to be the cave’s oldest stalagmite, estimated to be around 150,000 years old.
Take an unforgettable cave train for a 3.7-kilometer journey into a stunning underground world filled with spectacular limestone formations. The railway tracks were laid in 1872, and the guides had to push the carriages themselves before a gasoline-powered locomotive was introduced.
The cave is home to the olm, the world’s largest cave-dwelling predator, which is endemic to the Dinaric Karst. This unusual amphibian has become a symbol of Slovenia’s natural heritage. Olms can live for up to 100 years and survive for several years without food. In the 17th century, local inhabitants believed that a fearsome dragon lived in the cave and that the mysterious olms were its baby dragons.
Back then, when the karst cave was being prepared for a visit by Francis I, the first Emperor of the Austrian Empire, a new section of the cave was accidentally discovered by Luka Čeč, a local man responsible for lighting the lamps inside. He became the first tour guide when it officially opened to the public.
During World War II, German forces stored nearly 1,000 barrels of aircraft fuel in this cave, but they were destroyed in April 1944 by Slovene Partisans. The fire burned for a week, has damaged a large section of the cave and blackened the entrance. It is visible upon entering the cave.
More interestingly, you can buy a postcard from the souvenir shop and mail it through its unique cave postmark. It is the only underground post office in the world, which was originally opened in 1899 during the Austrian Empire.
Location: Jamska cesta 30, 6230 Postojna
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 4 pm
Entrance Fee: €34.90 (Combined with Postojna Cave- General Ticket: €49.90/ Adults aged 65+ and Visitors with Disability: €24.95)
The Taste of Slovenia’s Beauty
Are you ready to soak up the stunning beauty of Slovenia? Venture beyond the capital and discover the country’s breathtaking natural landscapes, charming towns and spectacular scenery. You’ll soon fall in love with everything Slovenia has to offer.
- Lake Bled
- Lake Bohinj
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