How To Spend 2 Days In Ljubljana: The PERFECT Itinerary For 2025

Planning on spending 2 days in Ljubljana? Read on to discover our ultimate itinerary, including where to go, where to eat, and where to stay.

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is one of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities. 2 days in Ljubljana is the perfect amount of time to scratch the surface and get a sense of why everyone loves visiting. 

Ljubljana is considered one of the most environmentally friendly capitals in Europe, winning the European Green Capital prize in 2016. Despite Ljubljana having so much to offer, very few tourists venture to the Slovenian capital. Therefore, when you do visit, there is a very peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.

2 days in Ljubljana allows visitors time to see all the main highlights of the city. From the stunning Ljubljana Castle to the meandering Ljubljanica River, Ljubljana has so much to offer.

Regardless of whether you want a relaxing weekend break or want to spend a couple of days admiring stunning architecture and learning some interesting history about the city, Ljubljana is the place to visit.

Two Days In Ljubljana Overview

➡️ Day 1: Explore The Old Town & Castle
➡️ Day 2: Relax In Beautiful Nature & Get Off The Beaten Path

✅ Prefer to download the itinerary to use offline? Click HERE

Day 1: Explore The Best Of Ljubljana

Day one will involve exploring all of the highlights and seeing why Ljubljana is worth visiting. This will let you get a feel for the city and understand why so many people love it. There is plenty to do, but also enough time to enjoy a delicious coffee.

Get Your Bearings Of Ljubljana

Start your first day in Ljubljana by getting your bearings in the Old Town. Begin at Prešeren Square, the city’s main square, where you can admire the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation with its iconic pink walls. From there, head to the Triple Bridge, a beautiful pedestrian bridge complex over the Ljubljanica River, designed by architect Jože Plečnik.

As you cross into the historic center, take a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets, soaking in the Art Nouveau and Baroque architecture. Make sure to spot landmarks like Town Hall and the Robba Fountain along the way.

Enjoy A Coffee At Cacao Ljubljana

All this exploring has probably made you a bit tired. So your next stop is Cacao, one of Ljubljana’s most popular riverside cafés. With an ideal location right by the Ljubljanica River, it’s the perfect place to sit back, people watch and soak up the atmosphere, especially on a sunny day.

Cacao is a great place to enjoy a coffee, creamy gelato, and artisan cakes. Whether you’re after a quick espresso, a scoop of gelato, or a quick sweet dessert with a view, this spot delivers every time.

Go On A Walking Tour Of Ljubljana

Now you are caffeinated and have admired the beautiful architecture, it is time to learn more about Ljubljana’s history. Head back to Prešeren Square and go on a walking tour of the city with a certified guide. Starting at 10am, this tour lasts 2.5 hours and will take you through some of the places you have already visited and some new places.

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While you explore the city with a group of fellow travellers, your knowledgeable local guide will teach you about the history of each attraction and the city as a whole. The journey goes through the historic streets, highlighting sites like the National and University Library, Ljubljana Cathedral, Cobblers’ Bridge, Town Hall, and Dragon Bridge.

We find a walking tour a great way to get your bearings of a city, while also learning its history. This tour will also allow you to discover which places you may want to come back to and admire a bit more. For us, we loved learning about all of the famous bridges and admiring the beautiful architecture. 

Lunch At Druga Violina

Feeling a bit hungry after all that walking? Head to Druga Violina for a delicious and filling lunch. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this restaurant is part of a social project that employs people with disabilities, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Druga Violina accommodates a variety of dietary requirements, including vegetarians. There is a focus on traditional Slovenian dishes with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Try the štruklji (rolled dumplings) or the bograč (a rich meat goulash). All dishes are very affordable and delicious. Make sure you get a seat outside, especially on a sunny day.

Head To Ljubljana’s Central Market

After your delicious lunch, head to Ljubljana’s Central Market. If you are still hungry, you can taste some more local foods. Located between the Butchers’ Bridge and Dragon Bridge, the market is where locals buy and sell a variety of goods.

Here, you can find everything from freshly-picked seasonal produce to homemade honey, artisan cheeses, dried and fresh flowers, baked treats, and even traditional Slovenian souvenirs. This is a perfect place to try some new Slovenian treats, including Kranjska klobasa (Carniolan sausage), potica (nut roll), or fresh štruklji dumplings.

It is open every day from 7 am until mid-afternoon, however, the busiest and most lively time to visit is on a weekend. Here you will see locals buying their weekly fresh fruit and vegetables from the countless stalls. This is also one of the very few locations in Europe where you can buy unpasteurised milk.

Ride The Funicular To The Castle

Now that you have seen how locals currently live, you are going to discover how they used to live hundreds of years ago. Your next stop is Ljubljana Castle.

There are 2 different ways to get to the castle. One option is to take the 10-15 minute hike uphill via a variety of pedestrian footpaths. However, if you want to get the full experience of visiting Ljubljana Castle and have a bit of fun, then we would recommend choosing the funicular ride.

Make your way to the lower station at Krek Square, at the base of the castle. From here you can buy a ticket, or have a pre-booked ticket to save time. Alternatively, get the Ljubljana Card for free access to the funicular.

As you ascend in the funicular, you will be treated to beautiful views of Ljubljana, which get better the higher you go. Once you are at the top of the funicular, take a minute to enjoy the stunning views of the city before you explore the castle.

Admire The Views From Ljubljana Castle

Built in the 15th century, this is one of the best-preserved castles in the whole of Slovenia. Standing high above the capital, Ljubljana Castle was once a medieval fortress. Today, it acts as one of the city’s most famous tourist attractions, offering panoramic views, interactive exhibits, and a unique glimpse into Slovenia’s history.

Entrance to the castle costs €15 for adults, or €10,50 for children (free with the Ljubljana Card). With this, you get to explore the Viewing Tower, the 4D film of the Virtual Castle, the Museum of Puppetry, and the Slovenian History exhibition.

First, head to the Viewing Tower, where a short spiral staircase rewards you with 360-degree views of the city, the river, and on clear days, even the distant Alps. It is easily one of the best photo spots in Ljubljana.

Next, wander through the castle’s interior, where you’ll find several small museums and exhibitions. Visit the Slovenian History Exhibition for a complete guide to the country’s immense history. Also, check out the virtual castle and any other temporary exhibitions that are on. If you want a quick drink or snack, then there are plenty of cafes and restaurants within the castle walls to choose from.

Get A Delicious Dinner At Julija Restaurant

One of the best restaurants in Ljubljana, agreed upon by locals and tourists, is Julija Restaurant. Julija restaurant is located in Stari Trg, which is the perfect setting for a delicious dinner. Set one street back from the Ljubljanica River, this is a great place to relax and take in your beautiful surroundings.

Their menu offers a mix of traditional Slovenian dishes and European favourites. No matter what mood you are in, there will be something for you. From fish dishes, including octopus and squid, to risotto, gnocchi and other pasta dishes, everyone can enjoy eating here. There is also a variety of wines to choose from to accompany your meal. All dishes are presented elegantly, but are still filling. 

At Julija, you will find a beautifully decorated interior with stone walls and soft lighting. The friendly staff are very accommodating and will try their hardest to make your meal as special as possible

Sail Down The Ljubljanica River On A Cruise

 To finish your first day in Ljubljana, head on one of the relaxing river cruises. On this cruise, you will get to experience Ljubljana from a completely new angle. In the river, you will get to sail under the famous bridges of Ljubljana, while also watching as people look down and wave to you.

The cruises board from Breg Embankment and take you south against the river, away from the city centre, before turning around and sailing through Ljubljana.

There are a variety of cruises to choose from, including public cruises and private cruises for couples or groups. Every boat has an experienced tour guide who can teach you about the beautiful surroundings. If possible, try to align your cruise with sunset to get a truly magical experience. 

Day 2: Hidden Gems Of Ljubljana

Day two of your trip will involve heading off the beaten path, where most tourists don’t visit. For this, you will be rewarded with beautiful nature and stunning artwork.

Walk Around Tivoli Park

Your second day in Ljubljana starts with a peaceful escape into Tivoli Park, the city’s largest green space. Just a short 10-15 minute walk from the Old Town, Tivoli offers the perfect place to slow down and soak up Ljubljana’s natural charm. 

Tivoli Park is popular with locals who want to see a bit more nature, go for a run, or walk their dog. Wander along the Jakopič Promenade, a wide, tree-lined path that leads up to the stunning Tivoli Mansion. Keep an eye out for the open-air photography exhibitions along the way, filled with beautiful, creative shots.

The main activity to do in Tivoli Park is to wander along the winding paths and just be immersed in nature. This is the perfect place to spend the morning, as it will not be too hot and there is plenty of shaded areas to relax.

Tivoli Mansion: International Centre of Graphic Arts

When you are finished admiring Tivoli Park, head back to Jakopič Promenade and follow it to Tivoli Mansion. This hidden gem is nestled at the top of the hill, surrounded by towering trees and pristine gardens. While the building itself is picturesque, what’s inside is even more interesting: the International Centre of Graphic Arts (MGLC).

This small but fascinating gallery showcases a wide mix of artwork, including contemporary, illustration, and sculptures from both Slovenian and international artists. This is not only a great place for art-lovers, but also if you don’t enjoy art, it is a great place to explore and try something different. 

The gallery is open every Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6 pm, except for the week before Christmas, when it closes at 2 pm. There is a small entrance fee of €6 for adults, or entrance is free with the Ljubljana Card.

Stop For A Drink At Čolnarna Tivoli

Once you’ve finished admiring the art, head back through Tivoli Park to Čolnarna Tivoli. Here you can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat with stunning views. This small, charming lakeside café is tucked inside Tivoli Park, right beside a small pond surrounded by trees and beautiful wildflowers.

On a sunny day, the outside porch is filled with locals enjoying a slow morning. If it’s cooler outside, then grab a seat inside the cosy, plant-filled interior and watch the world go by through the big windows.

Head To Metelkova Mesto

After a relaxing stop, you can either take the 20- 30 minute walk to the next location, or take bus 6 or 13 from outside Tivoli Park. Your next stop is one of the most unique places in Ljubljana, which most tourists have no idea exists. Welcome the the colourful Metelkova Mesto.

Formerly a military barracks, Metelkova was taken over by artists and activists in the 1990s and transformed into a colourful, anarchic cultural space. Today, it’s home to alternative art, underground music and various events. If you enjoy street art or unusual places, then this is definitely somewhere to check out.

There is no need for a guide; just enjoy walking through, snapping photos, and soaking up the atmosphere. It’s usually pretty quiet during the day, so you’ll have space to explore freely. However, at night, it turns into one of the city’s liveliest nightlife spots, with bars, music venues, and events that run into the early hours.

Visit The Museum of Contemporary Art (MSUM)

Located just a few meters away from the chaos of Metelkova Mesto is the equally creative Museum of Contemporary Art (MSUM). Part of Slovenia’s national modern art institution, it focuses on 20th- and 21st-century artworks from both Slovenian and international artists. 

The building itself isn’t the most impressive, however, as soon as you walk in, the space opens up and you are surrounded by beautiful artwork. There is plenty to enjoy for art enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts alike.

The museum also has an extensive library containing around 66,000 books. All the books are related to exhibition catalogues, newspapers, and professional journals on the subject of contemporary art. Entrance is €7 for adults or free on the first Sunday of the month or with the Ljubljana Card. Note that the museum is closed on Mondays. 

Enjoy Lunch At Kavarna SEM Lounge Bar

Once you have taken in all the beautiful artwork, it is time to enjoy a delicious lunch. We recommend heading to Kavarna SEM Lounge Bar, which is located just around the corner from MSUM. With lots of outdoor seating, this is the perfect place to sit and enjoy your coffee, juice, or even cocktail (we aren’t judging).

Kavarna SEM offers a range of food options, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options to choose from. You can grab a tasty sandwich, wrap, or even a pizza if you want something more filling. There is also a variety of sweet treats if you want a muffin or a slice of cake.

Wander Through The Beautiful Streets

Now you have a bit more energy, take the 10-15 minute walk back to Ljubljana Old Town. Start at Prešernov Square and get lost. The real beauty of Ljubljana is wandering down random streets and admiring the beautiful architecture and colourful walls. 

There are so many beautiful streets are spots to explore it is almost impossible to explore them all. However, just enjoy going for a relaxing stroll through the cobblestone streets and going into small local shops. If you want some recommendations of where to visit, we have listed some below.

Watch Sunset At Nebotičnik Cafe

As your second day is coming to an end, we have saved one of the best places till last. Nebotičnik Cafe is one of the best places to enjoy the sunset in the city. Located at the top of the Nebotičnik (skyscraper) building, the view at the top is incredible.

Built in 1933, Nebotičnik was once the tallest buildings in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and remains one of Ljubljana’s tallest buildings. The rooftop café offers a 360° panoramic view of Ljubljana Castle and the city below.

There are plenty of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to choose from, but the main thing to do is to sit back and enjoy the relaxed and romantic atmosphere. To make the most of your visit, check the weather beforehand so you aren’t disappointed. However, regardless of the weather, you are bound to have an amazing time.

Get Dinner At The Michelin Star Strelec Restaurant

The final stop of your 2 days in Ljubljana is at one of the best restaurants in the city. Head back up to Ljubljana Castle by funicular (last ride 7 pm) or by walking. Head to Archers’ Tower, where you can enjoy one of the best meals you will have ever experienced. Restavracija Strelec (Strelec Restaurant) has been awarded a Michelin star for its delicious food and historic setting.

Chef Igor Jagodic offers a single nine-course tasting menu, which can be shortened to seven or even five courses for a more relaxed experience. Each dish is a modern and creative tribute to Mediterranean traditions, crafted with seasonal Slovenian ingredients.

This is the perfect place to end 2 days in Ljubljana. We recommend booking a reservation as early as possible, as it is an extremely popular place.

If you would rather a quieter and more local dinner, then head to Pop’s Place. This is perfect for a more laid-back atmosphere and cheaper food. Located next to the Ljubljanica River, Pop’s Places offers incredible views while serving delicious burgers and other comforting food, with a wide range of local drinks.

Where To Stay In Ljubljana

Ljubljana has so many incredible places to stay. To make the most out of this itinerary, we recommend basing yourself in the city centre or old town.

✅ Best Luxury Stay – AS Boutique Hotel is the pinnacle of luxury accommodation in Ljubljana. When spending 2 days in Ljubljana, you will want somewhere comfortable and relaxing to refresh and relax, ready for the next day. AS Boutique Hotel is in the perfect location, 100 meters from Prešeren Square. Each room has lots of amenities, including air-conditioning, a minibar, soundproof walls, and a private bathroom.

✅ Best Midrange- Best Western Premier Hotel is located 150 meters from Prešeren Square, making it a great central base for all activities. Best Western offers a variety of rooms from single to 4-person family rooms. Each is equipped with a private bathroom, TV, and air-conditioning.

✅ Best Budget- Apartments Maria is a great option if you want to save a bit of money, but don’t want to sacrifice luxury. Just 900 meters from Ljubljana Castle, Apartments Maria are located just out of the main centre, allowing for a peaceful and relaxing stay.

How To Get Around Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a small city, with a population of only 285,000, and it feels more like a friendly town. Due to its small size, with the centre being only around 5km², it means you are able to walk to most attractions. Also, as cars are banned from the Old City Centre, it allows tourists to walk the streets peacefully, without the worry of cars.

If you want to explore further afield from the Old Town centre, then there is a good network of buses. These buses can get to not only around the city, but also to day trip destinations such as Lake Bled. You can also get around the city via bike rental, which you can get for 4 hours for free with the Ljubljana Card.

FAQs

Still have a few questions about spending two days in Ljubljana? We’ve answered the most common questions below.

Is 2 Days In Ljubljana Enough?

Absolutely, 2 days in Ljubljana is just enough to fall in love with Slovenia’s beautiful capital. While it’s not the biggest capital city in Europe, Ljubljana packs a lot into a compact, walkable centre. With historic architecture, vibrant culture, stunning green spaces, and a wide range of delicious foods, you’re sure to love it.

If you have more time, then there is still plenty to do. Ljubljana has some great day trips, including Lake Bled and Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle. However, Slovenia is full of beautiful places all over the country.

If you’ve got more time, consider staying in Ljubljana for one week, using it as a base to explore more of Slovenia. Alternatively, Bled is a great place to stay.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Ljubljana?

The best time to visit Ljubljana depends on the kind of experience you’re after, but most travellers fall in love with the city during late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September–early October). These months strike the perfect balance: warm, sunny weather without the busy summer crowds. There are also plenty of outdoor festivals, events, and local life to enjoy.

Summer (July and August) is lively and packed with events, but it is also hotter and busier. If you’re after a more peaceful, romantic atmosphere, Ljubljana in winter is a true hidden gem. The festive lights, cosy cafes, and riverside Christmas markets make December especially magical.

Is Ljubljana Safe For Tourists?

Definitely. Ljubljana consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Europe. The atmosphere is relaxed and the locals are friendly. Solo travellers, including women, typically feel very comfortable here, even at night.

Wrap Up

Two days in Ljubljana is enough to fall in love with this beautiful, walkable capital. From exploring the Old Town, incredible castle views, to street art, delicious restaurants, and riverside sunsets, it’s the perfect city for a short, relaxing getaway.

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