Ljubljana

Ljubljana ("lyoo-blah-nah"), the capital of Slovenia, is a charming old city full of artists, museums, and galleries. In Roman times, it was called Colonia Iulia Aemona and was part of Province X "Venetia et Histria" of Italia proper. With a population of 300,000, it is one of the smallest capital cities in Europe. Ljubljana is pronounced similar to 'ljubljena' ('beloved') in Slovenian, but the words are not related.

Ljubljana has no world-famous attractions, which is just great: there's no need to hop from one place to another, taking photos and crossing off the items on your checklist. You have all the time to stroll around and enjoy the city itself. Ljubljana is noted as one of the greenest capitals in Europe; a pair of green hills, one of them sporting the city's major attraction (Ljubljana Castle) approach the centre like two opposing wedges, so forest with an extensive network of footpaths is literally across the street from the old town.

In the summer, its centre hosts a number of city sponsored events, from children's workshops and public playgrounds on the streets that get closed for traffic for the occasion, to Trnfest's off-beat street performances and musical events of all genres. In autumn it shows its academic face as it fills again with students of the state's largest university to whom the city owes much of its youthful character. Cold December days are warmed by thousands of lights, the New Year's decorations conceived by local artists, and by food and drinks sold from street stands on the banks of the Ljubljanica river. After surviving the boring grey remaining of winter, the city erupts again with spring flowers planted on its streets and crossroads.

The Ljubljanica river flows through the centre of town, past Baroque buildings and under the ramparts of the ancient castle on the hill. The new city and modern-day commercial core lies to the west of the river, while the old city and the castle are located on the east side of the river. Many bridges cross the river, the most famous of which is the Tromostovje (triple) bridge, designed by architect Jože Plečnik.

• Ljubljana Tourist Information Centre, Stritarjeva (next to the Triple Bridge, +386 1 306-4583. M-F 08:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-18:00. Also offers three sightseeing tours in the summer at 10:00, 14:00, and 17:00 for €10. Take free map from here, also there are nice souvenirs too.

Ljubljana Tourist Information Centre, Stritarjeva (next to the Triple Bridge, +386 1 306-4583. M-F 08:00-20:00, Sa Su 10:00-18:00. Also offers three sightseeing tours in the summer at 10:00, 14:00, and 17:00 for €10. Take free map from here, also there are nice souvenirs too.

The main language of the city is unsurprisingly Slovenian. Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian is also understood by most and usually spoken fluently by people over 30. Many inhabitants of Ljubljana speak English as well, especially people under the age of 30. Some of them also speak German, Italian, French, Spanish and/or Russian. It's worth trying any major European language you speak.

The easiest and most pleasant way to reach all spots described below is by foot, except for the Zoo and the Architecture Museum.

• Triple Bridge (Tromostovje). Tromostovje consists of three separate picturesque bridges located next to one another. According to design by known Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, the two bridges on the sides were built in the 1930s; the middle bridge is originally from 1842 and has been only redesigned at that time. The neighbouring Prešeren square with the statue of Slovenian greatest poet France Prešeren is the central location of downtown Ljubljana and a common meeting point. From here, cross Ljubljanica and turn left for Open Market and the Dragon Bridge, or go straight and then right for the old town.
• Old Town. Squeezed between the castle hill and Ljubljanica river is the old town with two squares, Mestni trg (City square) with the Robba fountain and the city hall behind it, and, farther on, Gornji trg (Upper square). Well preserved medieval buildings now house local designer shops, and several popular cafes and restaurants. Although they may look creepy, the perfectly safe narrow lanes lead to charming little squares and buildings.
• Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge). Completed in 1901, designed by Croatian Jurij Zainovich. It is guarded by four detailed dragon statues from the city's coat-of-arms. Look out for the dragon motif throughout the city. Be careful around the Dragon Bridge area, as it is on a major busy road just outside the pedestrian zone and near misses (and worse) between inattentive tourists and traffic are common. The dragon bridge is located at the end of the Ljubljana Open Market, just a block or two down the river (north-east direction) from the Triple bridge.
• Ljubljana Castle. The tower has magnificent views all over the city. You can also see the Sava River and Kamnik Alps in the distance. Included is a 3D Movie of the history of Ljubljana from a pre-historic settlement to Roman Empire to modern times (€6.50 for adults, €3.00 for students, seniors). Entrance to the Castle Courtyard, Chapel and Gift shop is free, but there is a charge for access to the tower.
• Square of the Republic. Where crowds gathered as Slovenia announced its independence from the Yugoslav Federation in 1991. The square has significant importance for Slovene history, as it was a place of important public gatherings (and demonstrations) in the past. Across the road is the Slovene Parliament. Its façade is decorated with artistic nude statues of Slovenes at work and leisure. The square also houses the International Business Centre.
• Roman Ruins. A short walk west of the centre of town are the remains of the Roman City Walls, including a number of pillars from an entrance gate.
• Krakovo. A village-like part of the city connecting the centre to the Trnovo suburb.
• Metelkova City. A self-declared autonomous culture place to gather for alternative artists, many subcultures and youth. What used to be a military barracks is now full of underground artists, bars and nightclubs. Metelkova can get crowded on Fridays and Saturdays. It is within 5 minute of walk from main Train Station, and it is home to a renowned hostel Celica.
• Tivoli Park. The main city park. You can sit down on a park bench and enjoy the sun. Rožnik (the hill overlooking Ljubljana from the west) is a short hike away through the woods. This is a popular weekend destination for the locals.
• Ljubljana Zoo. 09:00–16:30 (winter) (open until 19:00 in summer). Closed Christmas Day.. One of the most beautiful zoos in Europe. €5.50–€8.
• University Botanic gardens Ljubljana, Ižanska cesta 15, +386 1 427-1280. open daily, Apr–Jun 07–19, Jul–Aug 07–20, Sep–Oct 07–19, Nov–Mar 07–17. Tropical glasshouse has reduced hours: daily 10:00–16:45. Ljubljana Botanic Garden is the oldest Slovene cultural, scientific and educational institution. It was founded in 1810, the time of the Illyrian Provinces, as a garden of native flora and a section of the Central School (École Centrale). In the garden is also tropical glasshouse. gardens free, tropical glasshouse €2.80.

• Architecture Museum of Ljubljana, Pot na Fužine 2, +386 1 540-9798. M-F 09:00-15:00, Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 10:00-15:00. Hosts a permanent exhibition of Jože Plečnik's works. Student €1, adult €2.
• Architecture Museum of Ljubljana: Plečnik Collection, Karunova 4, +386 1 280-1600. An annex of the Architecture Museum devoted to great Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, who lived in this building from 1921 to 1957. The house contains rooms with the artist’s valuable original furniture and personal objects, an archive of his sketches and plans and a collection of clay, plaster and wooden models, a library, Plečnik’s correspondence, a photo archive, thesis projects of Plečnik’s students and an archive of the Academy of Architecture Collection. Access only by guided tour of not more than 7 people, booked at least five days in advance.
• Museum of Modern Art, Cankarjeva cesta 15. Tu–Su 10:00–18:00. For those who prefer contemporary art, MG+ houses the national collection of 20th-century Slovene art (paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photography, video and electronic media collections), a collection of works from the former Yugoslavia, and the Eastern European collection "Arteast 2000+." €5 adults, €2.50 students.
• National Gallery, Prešernova 24. Definitely worth visiting if you care about art. It exhibits two important permanent collections that include works of some of the best and most renowned Slovenian (impressionist) painters (Jama, Grohar, Jakopic, Azbe). You can also see there a restored original of the Robba Fountain, a monument of national cultural heritage.
• National Museum of Slovenia - Prešernova, Muzejska ulica 1, +386 1 241-4400. daily 10:00-18:00, Thursday 10:00-20:00, closed on public holidays.. The oldest and the largest Slovene museum. It was founded in 1821. Existent museum building on the Museum street, was built in 1888 and was the first, building, assigned solely to culture in Slovenia. Today its stores a rich collections of valuable objects. The oldest spring back to the Stone Age, but there are also the newer ones, which are still used in our everyday life. Important columns of museum activity are also rich museum library and unit for preservation and restoring. Free admission each first Sunday of the month.
• National Museum of Slovenia - Metelkova, Maistrova 1, +386 1 230-7030. Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed on public holidays.. In the new building of the National museum of Slovenia on the Metelkova Street, are exhibited collections of the applied art heritage of Slovenia. The permanent exhibition brings together objects of applied arts from the 14th century to the present day.
• National Museum of Contemporary History, Celovška 23 (walk through the pleasant Tivoli park to get here., +386 1 300-9610. Slovenia's 20th-century history museum gives you a real sense of the country's roller-coaster ride through regime after regime. Its immersive exhibits include a walk-through World War I trench. The last exhibit shows the events around the Declaration of Independence from Yugoslavia and the Ten Day War with the Yugoslav Federal Army. All exhibits are translated to English and some to German too.
• Slovenian Museum of Natural History, Muzejska 1, +386 1 241 09 70. F-W 10:00-18:00, Th 10:00-20:00. Features an almost complete skeleton of a 20,000 year old mammoth found near Kamnik in 1938, a 200-million-year old fossil fish skeleton found in Triglav National Park, and a new, 13-m skeleton of a fin whale. Also has a large mineral collection.
• Tivoli Gallery - International centre of Graphic Art, Pod turnom 3, +386 1 241-3800. Open Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 12:00-18:00. Specialised in art shows, often in collaboration with international institutions. Adults €5, families €9, other discouts apply.

Architecture Museum of Ljubljana, Pot na Fužine 2, +386 1 540-9798. M-F 09:00-15:00, Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 10:00-15:00. Hosts a permanent exhibition of Jože Plečnik's works. Student €1, adult €2.

Architecture Museum of Ljubljana: Plečnik Collection, Karunova 4, +386 1 280-1600. An annex of the Architecture Museum devoted to great Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, who lived in this building from 1921 to 1957. The house contains rooms with the artist’s valuable original furniture and personal objects, an archive of his sketches and plans and a collection of clay, plaster and wooden models, a library, Plečnik’s correspondence, a photo archive, thesis projects of Plečnik’s students and an archive of the Academy of Architecture Collection. Access only by guided tour of not more than 7 people, booked at least five days in advance.

Museum of Modern Art, Cankarjeva cesta 15. Tu–Su 10:00–18:00. For those who prefer contemporary art, MG+ houses the national collection of 20th-century Slovene art (paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photography, video and electronic media collections), a collection of works from the former Yugoslavia, and the Eastern European collection "Arteast 2000+." €5 adults, €2.50 students.

National Gallery, Prešernova 24. Definitely worth visiting if you care about art. It exhibits two important permanent collections that include works of some of the best and most renowned Slovenian (impressionist) painters (Jama, Grohar, Jakopic, Azbe). You can also see there a restored original of the Robba Fountain, a monument of national cultural heritage.

National Museum of Slovenia - Prešernova, Muzejska ulica 1, +386 1 241-4400. daily 10:00-18:00, Thursday 10:00-20:00, closed on public holidays.. The oldest and the largest Slovene museum. It was founded in 1821. Existent museum building on the Museum street, was built in 1888 and was the first, building, assigned solely to culture in Slovenia. Today its stores a rich collections of valuable objects. The oldest spring back to the Stone Age, but there are also the newer ones, which are still used in our everyday life. Important columns of museum activity are also rich museum library and unit for preservation and restoring. Free admission each first Sunday of the month.

National Museum of Slovenia - Metelkova, Maistrova 1, +386 1 230-7030. Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, closed on public holidays.. In the new building of the National museum of Slovenia on the Metelkova Street, are exhibited collections of the applied art heritage of Slovenia. The permanent exhibition brings together objects of applied arts from the 14th century to the present day.

National Museum of Contemporary History, Celovška 23 (walk through the pleasant Tivoli park to get here., +386 1 300-9610. Slovenia's 20th-century history museum gives you a real sense of the country's roller-coaster ride through regime after regime. Its immersive exhibits include a walk-through World War I trench. The last exhibit shows the events around the Declaration of Independence from Yugoslavia and the Ten Day War with the Yugoslav Federal Army. All exhibits are translated to English and some to German too.

Slovenian Museum of Natural History, Muzejska 1, +386 1 241 09 70. F-W 10:00-18:00, Th 10:00-20:00. Features an almost complete skeleton of a 20,000 year old mammoth found near Kamnik in 1938, a 200-million-year old fossil fish skeleton found in [[Triglav National Park]], and a new, 13-m skeleton of a fin whale. Also has a large mineral collection.

Tivoli Gallery - International centre of Graphic Art, Pod turnom 3, +386 1 241-3800. Open Tu-Sa 10:00-18:00, Su 12:00-18:00. Specialised in art shows, often in collaboration with international institutions. Adults €5, families €9, other discouts apply.

Triple Bridge (Tromostovje). Tromostovje consists of three separate picturesque bridges located next to one another. According to design by known Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, the two bridges on the sides were built in the 1930s; the middle bridge is originally from 1842 and has been only redesigned at that time. The neighbouring Prešeren square with the statue of Slovenian greatest poet France Prešeren is the central location of downtown Ljubljana and a common meeting point. From here, cross Ljubljanica and turn left for Open Market and the Dragon Bridge, or go straight and then right for the old town.

Old Town. Squeezed between the castle hill and Ljubljanica river is the old town with two squares, Mestni trg (City square) with the Robba fountain and the city hall behind it, and, farther on, Gornji trg (Upper square). Well preserved medieval buildings now house local designer shops, and several popular cafes and restaurants. Although they may look creepy, the perfectly safe narrow lanes lead to charming little squares and buildings.

Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge). Completed in 1901, designed by Croatian Jurij Zainovich. It is guarded by four detailed dragon statues from the city's coat-of-arms. Look out for the dragon motif throughout the city. Be careful around the Dragon Bridge area, as it is on a major busy road just outside the pedestrian zone and near misses (and worse) between inattentive tourists and traffic are common. The dragon bridge is located at the end of the Ljubljana Open Market, just a block or two down the river (north-east direction) from the Triple bridge.

Ljubljana Castle. The tower has magnificent views all over the city. You can also see the Sava River and Kamnik Alps in the distance. Included is a 3D Movie of the history of Ljubljana from a pre-historic settlement to [[Roman Empire]] to modern times (€6.50 for adults, €3.00 for students, seniors). Entrance to the Castle Courtyard, Chapel and Gift shop is free, but there is a charge for access to the tower.

Square of the Republic. Where crowds gathered as Slovenia announced its independence from the Yugoslav Federation in 1991. The square has significant importance for Slovene history, as it was a place of important public gatherings (and demonstrations) in the past. Across the road is the Slovene Parliament. Its façade is decorated with artistic nude statues of Slovenes at work and leisure. The square also houses the International Business Centre.

Roman Ruins. A short walk west of the centre of town are the remains of the Roman City Walls, including a number of pillars from an entrance gate.

Krakovo. A village-like part of the city connecting the centre to the Trnovo suburb.

Metelkova City. A self-declared autonomous culture place to gather for alternative artists, many subcultures and youth. What used to be a military barracks is now full of underground artists, bars and nightclubs. Metelkova can get crowded on Fridays and Saturdays. It is within 5 minute of walk from main Train Station, and it is home to a renowned hostel Celica.

Tivoli Park. The main city park. You can sit down on a park bench and enjoy the sun. Rožnik (the hill overlooking Ljubljana from the west) is a short hike away through the woods. This is a popular weekend destination for the locals.

Ljubljana Zoo. 09:00–16:30 (winter) (open until 19:00 in summer). Closed Christmas Day.. One of the most beautiful zoos in Europe. €5.50–€8.

University Botanic gardens Ljubljana, Ižanska cesta 15, +386 1 427-1280. open daily, Apr–Jun 07–19, Jul–Aug 07–20, Sep–Oct 07–19, Nov–Mar 07–17. Tropical glasshouse has reduced hours: daily 10:00–16:45. Ljubljana Botanic Garden is the oldest Slovene cultural, scientific and educational institution. It was founded in 1810, the time of the Illyrian Provinces, as a garden of native flora and a section of the Central School (École Centrale). In the garden is also tropical glasshouse. gardens free, tropical glasshouse €2.80.

• Hot Air Balloon Flights. 24/7. Accepts bookings via email or phone, at least a day before the flight. Hot air balloon flights are only early in the morning, starting at Sunrise. Whole programme is about 3-4 hr (flight time approx. 1 hr).
• Watch football ie soccer at Olimpija Ljubljana, who play in PrvaLiga, the top tier of Slovenian football. Their home ground is Stožice Stadium, capacity 16,000; it's off the ring road 2 km north of city centre.

• Water City of Atlantis. A water park offering 14 pools, thermal baths, slides and saunas. Special section is dedicated for children. €6-14.
• Laguna Fun & Spa. only open from June to September. Offers open-air pools during the day and themed parties at night. €6-12.

Water City of Atlantis. A water park offering 14 pools, thermal baths, slides and saunas. Special section is dedicated for children. €6-14.

Laguna Fun & Spa. only open from June to September. Offers open-air pools during the day and themed parties at night. €6-12.

Shows are performed regularly throughout the year. The opera house is located just behind the Slovene Parliament. There are several theatres scattered all over the city centre.

• Cankarjev Dom. Enormous arts and convention centre with concerts and performances
• Slovenska Filharmonija.
• Slovene National Theatre (Narodno Gledalisce), Erjavceva 1.
• Puppet Theatre (Lutkovno Gledalisce), Krekov Trg 2.

Cankarjev Dom. Enormous arts and convention centre with concerts and performances

Slovenska Filharmonija.

Slovene National Theatre (Narodno Gledalisce), Erjavceva 1.

Puppet Theatre (Lutkovno Gledalisce), Krekov Trg 2.

• Kinoteka. Open daily, but closed on Sundays and in July and August. Ljubljana's charming film museum where they have at least two movies a day. The movies range from classics to cult movies, from trash and horror to artistic masterpieces. All movies are presented in the original audio language, and equipped with Slovenian subtitles, sometimes also English. On Saturday mornings they have special projections for children. There are also some special events, round tables, premiers etc. all the time. It's a must visit for every film lover. It has also a nice little cafe with small prices €3.
• Kinodvor. This is a small and very cool cinema that shows mostly new movies that are not playing in the blockbuster movie complexes. It has also a lot of special events, a great cafe and movies for children (Sundays). €3-5.
• Arena Play & Party. A great place to spend an evening. Main features include bowling, pool, laser games and a state-of-the-art 3D XpanD cinema theatre. Movies from €4.59 to €7.93.
• Kolosej Cinema. Ljubljana's main cinema multiplex. Unlike in many other countries, all movies are presented in the original audio language (typically English), and equipped with Slovenian subtitles. Only some showings of computer-rendered and animated movies are dubbed for the children, which is noted. from €5.85 to €6.55. Special discounts on Tuesdays.

Kinoteka. Open daily, but closed on Sundays and in July and August. Ljubljana's charming film museum where they have at least two movies a day. The movies range from classics to cult movies, from trash and horror to artistic masterpieces. All movies are presented in the original audio language, and equipped with Slovenian subtitles, sometimes also English. On Saturday mornings they have special projections for children. There are also some special events, round tables, premiers etc. all the time. It's a must visit for every film lover. It has also a nice little cafe with small prices €3.

Kinodvor. This is a small and very cool cinema that shows mostly new movies that are not playing in the blockbuster movie complexes. It has also a lot of special events, a great cafe and movies for children (Sundays). €3-5.

Arena Play & Party. A great place to spend an evening. Main features include bowling, pool, laser games and a state-of-the-art 3D XpanD cinema theatre. Movies from €4.59 to €7.93.

Kolosej Cinema. Ljubljana's main cinema multiplex. Unlike in many other countries, all movies are presented in the original audio language (typically English), and equipped with Slovenian subtitles. Only some showings of computer-rendered and animated movies are dubbed for the children, which is noted. from €5.85 to €6.55. Special discounts on Tuesdays.

Hot Air Balloon Flights. 24/7. Accepts bookings via email or phone, at least a day before the flight. Hot air balloon flights are only early in the morning, starting at Sunrise. Whole programme is about 3-4 hr (flight time approx. 1 hr).

Watch football ie soccer at Olimpija Ljubljana, who play in PrvaLiga, the top tier of Slovenian football. Their home ground is Stožice Stadium, capacity 16,000; it's off the ring road 2 km north of city centre.

Ljubljana's main shopping areas are the BTC City Shopping District (take bus 27), located at the north-eastern edge, and the Rudnik Shopping District (take bus 27) in the south-eastern edge of the city. However, several department stores such as Maximarket, H&M, Müller, Nama, are located in the city centre. Additionally, Čopova street and the Old town have a dense collection of small shops.

• Sunday flea market, Gallusovo nabrezje. Daily 08:00-14:00. Two dozen or so stalls selling overpriced knick-knacks. Postcards, €10. Tito and Disney memorabilia, broken Chinese-made curios, rusty military paraphernalia.
• Central Market, Vodnikov trg (right bank of the Ljubljanica river, 200 m from the Triple Bridges. The central, open-air market features a wide array of local produce (exact items vary depending on the season), as well as local cheeses, breads and meats in the adjacent building. If you're lucky, you may still find sellers who have wheeled in their vegetables from south of the city centre (Krakovo) by foot - although they are a dying breed. Open every morning and early afternoon except Sunday; most lively on Saturday mornings. On Fridays you can also visit the 'Open Kitchen' from 08:00 until 21:00, from March until October.

Sunday flea market, Gallusovo nabrezje. Daily 08:00-14:00. Two dozen or so stalls selling overpriced knick-knacks. Postcards, €10. Tito and Disney memorabilia, broken Chinese-made curios, rusty military paraphernalia.

Central Market, Vodnikov trg (right bank of the Ljubljanica river, 200 m from the Triple Bridges. The central, open-air market features a wide array of local produce (exact items vary depending on the season), as well as local cheeses, breads and meats in the adjacent building. If you're lucky, you may still find sellers who have wheeled in their vegetables from south of the city centre (Krakovo) by foot - although they are a dying breed. Open every morning and early afternoon except Sunday; most lively on Saturday mornings. On Fridays you can also visit the 'Open Kitchen' from 08:00 until 21:00, from March until October.

Downtown Ljubljana is full of trendy cafes (outdoor seating in the summer!) and high-quality restaurants. You can find local Slovenian food, and restaurants with ethnic food from many places around the world. Pizza in Ljubljana is of very good quality. Try a burger Slovene style with a horse burger at the Hot Horse! Cheap and good for returning from a night out.

• Hot' Horse, BTC City, Šmartinska 152; Tivoli Park, Celovška 25. Huge burgers and other dishes, focused around horse meat. Made to your liking. Don't be fooled by the pictures on the official website, the burgers are huge, larger than at McDonald's or Burger King. Note that you must use an automatic order machine to place your order and pay for it before picking it up from the counter.
• Falafel, Trubarjeva 40. This Middle-Eastern dish, together with other meat and vegetables dishes is served in the small fast-food restaurant next to the Dragon bridge. €3, including 2 dishes, tea and a sweet.
• Nobel Burek, Miklošičeva 30 (You can't miss it - green and yellow sign, a lot of people standing in line. The place where young people go to get food late in the evening or at night. Different kinds of burek (a leafy dough pie, traditionally with mince meat or cheese filling) available. Arguably the best burek in town. €2.
• Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen) food market, Pogačarjev trg (at the central market (on the square near the Tromostovje). Mid March - October on Fridays 10:00-21:00. On Fridays, during the summer part of the year, the market is buzzing, even in the evening, as locals and tourists alike try the varieties of dishes at the various food stalls of the so called "odprta kuhna" (open kitchen).
• Klobasarna, Ciril-Metodov trg 15, +386 51 605 017. Every day 10:00-22:00. Hole-in-the-wall fast food restaurant serving seasonal Slovenian soups with traditional sausages and bread. ~€3.

Hot' Horse, BTC City, Šmartinska 152; Tivoli Park, Celovška 25. Huge burgers and other dishes, focused around horse meat. Made to your liking. Don't be fooled by the pictures on the official website, the burgers are huge, larger than at McDonald's or Burger King. Note that you must use an automatic order machine to place your order and pay for it before picking it up from the counter.

Falafel, Trubarjeva 40. This Middle-Eastern dish, together with other meat and vegetables dishes is served in the small fast-food restaurant next to the Dragon bridge. €3, including 2 dishes, tea and a sweet.

Nobel Burek, Miklošičeva 30 (You can't miss it - green and yellow sign, a lot of people standing in line. The place where young people go to get food late in the evening or at night. Different kinds of burek (a leafy dough pie, traditionally with mince meat or cheese filling) available. Arguably the best burek in town. €2.

Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen) food market, Pogačarjev trg (at the central market (on the square near the Tromostovje). Mid March - October on Fridays 10:00-21:00. On Fridays, during the summer part of the year, the market is buzzing, even in the evening, as locals and tourists alike try the varieties of dishes at the various food stalls of the so called "odprta kuhna" (open kitchen).

Klobasarna, Ciril-Metodov trg 15, +386 51 605 017. Every day 10:00-22:00. Hole-in-the-wall fast food restaurant serving seasonal Slovenian soups with traditional sausages and bread. ~€3.

• Gostilna Portal, Zaloška cesta 110 (Bus No. 11, 20, 25. Located in Eastern town. Bad&Breakfast known mostly as good reastaurant for grilled Serbian food (Balkan food) is likeable for all who love meat. Meat like cevapcici and pleskavice are very popular here (€6-7). They also make perfect pizzas (€5.3-7.2).
• Cafe Romeo, Stari trg 6 (Along the river, to the south of the 3 bridges.. Fusion between cocktail bar and Mexican restaurant. Besides tourists, this place is also popular among the locals. Meal salads €7.50; burrito €5-8, quesadas €5-8.
• Cantina Mexicana, Wolfova 4 (just off the central square by the 3 bridges., +386 1 426-9325. Mexican restaurant set in a small yard together with another restaurant and a pub. Tex-Mex €13; fajitas €10; salads €8.
• Da-bu-da, Šubičeva 1a. Thai food and cocktail bar, great atmosphere.
• Emonska Klet, Plecnikov Trg 1. Former Ursuline convent. Cellar restaurant serving pizza, salads, and Slovenian food. Live music every night.
• Figovec, Gosposvetska 1. Serves pony steaks, horse goulash, and traditional Slovenian food.
• Foculus, Gregorciceva 3. Flamboyantly decorated pizzeria and salad restaurant. €6 and up.
• Gostilna Pod Rožnikom, Cesta na Roznik 18 (near Ljubljana Zoo.. Specialises in grilled dishes from southeastern Europe.
• Gostilna Sokol, Ciril Metodov trg 18, +386 1 439-6855. This restaurant deals up authentic Slovenian cuisine, complete with all waiters and waitresses dressed up in traditional costume. The food is hearty and served in generous gut-busting portions and very good value for money. The fish cooked in a paper bag with vegetables is highly recommended. There is plenty of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes to choose from. The only downside was the house red, which is very sharp and quite cold, but this is a minor quibble.
• Joe Pena's, Cankarjeva 6. Popular Mexican restaurant.
• Julija, Stari trg 9 (Right next to Luka’s. Fare of Italian pasta and risotto dishes. Not quite a nice as Luka’s but still a good filling meal, and at a reasonable price. Pasta or risotto €6.50.
• Jurman, Zaloška 151. Daily 11:00-23:00. Affordable prices and very diverse choices. They have themed rooms, such as castle room and fishing room. Children can play in a designated indoor and outdoor playgrounds. The staff is friendly and the service is fast; it usually never takes longer than 10 minutes for 2 or 3 people. You are advised to make a reservation in advance.
• Ljubljanski Dvor, Dvorni trg 1. Offers 100 different kinds of pizza. Beautiful patio overlooking the river. Large pizzas €6 and up.
• Pri Škofu, Rečna cesta 5 (On a quiet residential street in the Trnovo/Krakovo district. This restaurant is heavily promoted by tourist guides, but delivers an inconsistent experience (i.e. can be very good or simple adequate). Their biggest shortcoming is the lack of wine choice. House specialties are gnocchi, black risotto, tenderloin medallions, or grilled aubergines.
• Šestica, Slovenska 40. Serves hearty meat dishes such as sausages, horse fillets, and steak as well as pasta and risotto.
• Špajza, Gornji trg 28, +386 1 425-3094. M-Sa. This restaurant is much larger than you first expect when you initially enter. You walk through several candlelit rooms before you reach the outside terrace. The waiters are initially quite attentive, serving you a nice little aperitif to get you started. The food is a mixture of Slovenian and European, and the menu is kept to a handful of choices for each course. Because of the service, surroundings and food this felt like an expensive restaurant, although by Western standards, it was quite reasonable. Mains €10-15.
• Zhong Hua, Trubarjeva 50, +386 1 230-1665. Decent Chinese restaurant near the Dragon bridge. The family-run place even has Beijing duck on their menu. Mains €6-10.
• Zlata Ribica, Cankarjevo Nabrezje 5. Great fish restaurant with outdoor seating facing the river.
• Gostilna Pod Vrbo, Ziherlova Ulika 36 (about 10 minutes' walk south of the old town, or a quick bus ride. In Ziherlova Ulika, off Barjanska Cesta, +386 1 280-8892, +386 41 712 806. Local restaurant serving a huge range of Slovenian food - appetisers, starters, main courses, sweets, salads, meat, fish, etc. Friendly staff speak Slovenian, English and Italian, and the menus are indeed in Slovenian, English and Italian. Depends on guest's choice but a full meal (appetiser, starter, main course, sweet, drink) around €30.

Gostilna Portal, Zaloška cesta 110 (Bus No. 11, 20, 25. Located in Eastern town. Bad&Breakfast known mostly as good reastaurant for grilled Serbian food (Balkan food) is likeable for all who love meat. Meat like cevapcici and pleskavice are very popular here (€6-7). They also make perfect pizzas (€5.3-7.2).

Cafe Romeo, Stari trg 6 (Along the river, to the south of the 3 bridges.. Fusion between cocktail bar and Mexican restaurant. Besides tourists, this place is also popular among the locals. Meal salads €7.50; burrito €5-8, quesadas €5-8.

Cantina Mexicana, Wolfova 4 (just off the central square by the 3 bridges., +386 1 426-9325. Mexican restaurant set in a small yard together with another restaurant and a pub. Tex-Mex €13; fajitas €10; salads €8.

Da-bu-da, Šubičeva 1a. Thai food and cocktail bar, great atmosphere.

Emonska Klet, Plecnikov Trg 1. Former Ursuline convent. Cellar restaurant serving pizza, salads, and Slovenian food. Live music every night.

Figovec, Gosposvetska 1. Serves pony steaks, horse goulash, and traditional Slovenian food.

Foculus, Gregorciceva 3. Flamboyantly decorated pizzeria and salad restaurant. €6 and up.

Gostilna Pod Rožnikom, Cesta na Roznik 18 (near Ljubljana Zoo.. Specialises in grilled dishes from southeastern Europe.

Gostilna Sokol, Ciril Metodov trg 18, +386 1 439-6855. This restaurant deals up authentic Slovenian cuisine, complete with all waiters and waitresses dressed up in traditional costume. The food is hearty and served in generous gut-busting portions and very good value for money. The fish cooked in a paper bag with vegetables is highly recommended. There is plenty of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes to choose from. The only downside was the house red, which is very sharp and quite cold, but this is a minor quibble.

Joe Pena's, Cankarjeva 6. Popular Mexican restaurant.

Julija, Stari trg 9 (Right next to Luka’s. Fare of Italian pasta and risotto dishes. Not quite a nice as Luka’s but still a good filling meal, and at a reasonable price. Pasta or risotto €6.50.

Jurman, Zaloška 151. Daily 11:00-23:00. Affordable prices and very diverse choices. They have themed rooms, such as castle room and fishing room. Children can play in a designated indoor and outdoor playgrounds. The staff is friendly and the service is fast; it usually never takes longer than 10 minutes for 2 or 3 people. You are advised to make a reservation in advance.

Ljubljanski Dvor, Dvorni trg 1. Offers 100 different kinds of pizza. Beautiful patio overlooking the river. Large pizzas €6 and up.

Pri Škofu, Rečna cesta 5 (On a quiet residential street in the Trnovo/Krakovo district. This restaurant is heavily promoted by tourist guides, but delivers an inconsistent experience (i.e. can be very good or simple adequate). Their biggest shortcoming is the lack of wine choice. House specialties are gnocchi, black risotto, tenderloin medallions, or grilled aubergines.

Šestica, Slovenska 40. Serves hearty meat dishes such as sausages, horse fillets, and steak as well as pasta and risotto.

Špajza, Gornji trg 28, +386 1 425-3094. M-Sa. This restaurant is much larger than you first expect when you initially enter. You walk through several candlelit rooms before you reach the outside terrace. The waiters are initially quite attentive, serving you a nice little aperitif to get you started. The food is a mixture of Slovenian and European, and the menu is kept to a handful of choices for each course. Because of the service, surroundings and food this felt like an expensive restaurant, although by Western standards, it was quite reasonable. Mains €10-15.

Zhong Hua, Trubarjeva 50, +386 1 230-1665. Decent Chinese restaurant near the Dragon bridge. The family-run place even has Beijing duck on their menu. Mains €6-10.

Zlata Ribica, Cankarjevo Nabrezje 5. Great fish restaurant with outdoor seating facing the river.

Gostilna Pod Vrbo, Ziherlova Ulika 36 (about 10 minutes' walk south of the old town, or a quick bus ride. In Ziherlova Ulika, off Barjanska Cesta, +386 1 280-8892, +386 41 712 806. Local restaurant serving a huge range of Slovenian food - appetisers, starters, main courses, sweets, salads, meat, fish, etc. Friendly staff speak Slovenian, English and Italian, and the menus are indeed in Slovenian, English and Italian. Depends on guest's choice but a full meal (appetiser, starter, main course, sweet, drink) around €30.

• As, Copova Ulica 5A (located near the Triple Bridge.. Considered by many as Ljubljana's fanciest and most expensive, focusing on seafood and an extensive wine choice
• Cubo, Meteorology 55. Modern international fare.
• JB, Miklošičeva 17 (close to the bus/train stations, +386 1 433 13 58, +386 1 474 72 19. closed on weekends. Modern International fare, can get expensive by Slovenian standards.
• Krpan, 24 Ob Ljubljanici (out of center, close to the main hospital (Klinični center). Specializing mainly in seafood with an amazing grill experience. Unfortunately there have been some reports of inflated bills.
• Manna, Eipprova 1A (South from the main tourist area, +386 1 283 52 94. Excellent traditional dishes. It advertises "Slow food", but in effect the service is both helpful and fast. The restaurant has friendly and artistic atmosphere. €20-40.
• Pri Vitezu, Breg 18-20. High-end restaurant serving swordfish, scallops, snails, duck, and horse fillets.
• Strelec restavracija, Grajska planota 1, +386 83 84 31 42. M-Sa 12:00-22:00, closed holidays. A good restaurant in the castle's tower with a teracce overlooking the city

As, Copova Ulica 5A (located near the Triple Bridge.. Considered by many as Ljubljana's fanciest and most expensive, focusing on seafood and an extensive wine choice

Cubo, Meteorology 55. Modern international fare.

JB, Miklošičeva 17 (close to the bus/train stations, +386 1 433 13 58, +386 1 474 72 19. closed on weekends. Modern International fare, can get expensive by Slovenian standards.

Krpan, 24 Ob Ljubljanici (out of center, close to the main hospital (Klinični center). Specializing mainly in seafood with an amazing grill experience. Unfortunately there have been some reports of inflated bills.

Manna, Eipprova 1A (South from the main tourist area, +386 1 283 52 94. Excellent traditional dishes. It advertises "Slow food", but in effect the service is both helpful and fast. The restaurant has friendly and artistic atmosphere. €20-40.

Pri Vitezu, Breg 18-20. High-end restaurant serving swordfish, scallops, snails, duck, and horse fillets.

Strelec restavracija, Grajska planota 1, +386 83 84 31 42. M-Sa 12:00-22:00, closed holidays. A good restaurant in the castle's tower with a teracce overlooking the city

• Radha Govinda, Žibertova 23, Ljubljana - Šiška, +386 590 58381. 11:00-19:00. Vegetarian restaurant with Indian cuisine and vegan options €5-10.

Radha Govinda, Žibertova 23, Ljubljana - Šiška, +386 590 58381. 11:00-19:00. Vegetarian restaurant with Indian cuisine and vegan options €5-10.

Most of Ljubljana’s bars tend to cluster on the streets running parallel to the river, radiating from Prešernov trg, which is the main square in Ljubljana. The more interesting bars tend to be on the backstreets, rather than directly facing the river. Part of the joy of this city is stumbling across these places, but these are few to start you off.

The application Tap Water Ljubljana is intended for all who wish to quench their thirst and refresh themselves during the spring and summer months with freely available water from fountains found in 17 locations throughout Ljubljana, mostly they are in city center. Application is available on App Store.

• Cafe Antico, Stari Trg 17. Great ambiance - bare wooden floors, high tables and stools, and vaulted ceiling.
• Cafe Gaudi, Nazorjeva 10. Nice interior and wide selection of coffees.
• Čajna Hiša, Stari trg 3. Closed Su. This is a quirky little coffee and tea room, offering many variations on those warm beverages as well as basic breakfasts and lunches. The background music is impeccably cool, and the atmosphere is ideal for some elegant loafing. Linked to the café is a teashop selling drinking paraphernalia and loads of different fruity flavoured teas by the 100g.
• Geonavtik, Kongresni trg 1. Nautically themed cafe/bar with travel map and bookshop. Mellow atmosphere.
• Juice Bar Babo, Krojaška 4. A juice and smoothie bar in the old city center with over 50 combinations of freshly prepared beverages to choose from. Laid-back atmosphere, interesting combination of urban and health freak culture. Good place to meet tourists and interesting locals of all ages.
• Le Petite Cafe, Trg Francoske Revolucije 4. Very popular corner cafe.
• Maček, Krojaška 5. The most popular cafe along the river.
• Samsara, Presernov Trg. Summer-only outdoor cafe offers large selection of ice cream & gelato.
• Sax Pub, Eipprova 7. Really cool colorful spray-painted cafe/bar along the canal.
• Zvezda, Wolfova 14. Cafe with great ices and pastries.

Cafe Antico, Stari Trg 17. Great ambiance - bare wooden floors, high tables and stools, and vaulted ceiling.

Cafe Gaudi, Nazorjeva 10. Nice interior and wide selection of coffees.

Čajna Hiša, Stari trg 3. Closed Su. This is a quirky little coffee and tea room, offering many variations on those warm beverages as well as basic breakfasts and lunches. The background music is impeccably cool, and the atmosphere is ideal for some elegant loafing. Linked to the café is a teashop selling drinking paraphernalia and loads of different fruity flavoured teas by the 100g.

Geonavtik, Kongresni trg 1. Nautically themed cafe/bar with travel map and bookshop. Mellow atmosphere.

Juice Bar Babo, Krojaška 4. A juice and smoothie bar in the old city center with over 50 combinations of freshly prepared beverages to choose from. Laid-back atmosphere, interesting combination of urban and health freak culture. Good place to meet tourists and interesting locals of all ages.

Le Petite Cafe, Trg Francoske Revolucije 4. Very popular corner cafe.

Maček, Krojaška 5. The most popular cafe along the river.

Samsara, Presernov Trg. Summer-only outdoor cafe offers large selection of ice cream & gelato.

Sax Pub, Eipprova 7. Really cool colorful spray-painted cafe/bar along the canal.

Zvezda, Wolfova 14. Cafe with great ices and pastries.

• BI-KO-FE, Židovska steza 2.. A lively artsy little bar that plays excellent jazz music (CD, not live). There is outside seating, but inside is where it seems to be happening. It looks like the place the youngish locals hangout to drink the night away. Coffee, teas, and alcoholic beverages.
• Breg, Breg 2. Classy wine bar along the river.
• Cutty Sark, Knafljev Prehod 1 (Opposite Cantina Mexicana. Lively pub with raucous atmosphere. Usually has live music.
• Lepa Žoga, Celovška 43 (Near Tivoli Park. Main sports cafe/bar with sports regalia along the wall and a good, mixed crowd on most nights. Shows international rugby, all sorts of football games (European, English, Italian and other leagues) and other live sports. Has the best TV coverage in the city, ranging from Sky Sports to local TV stations.
• Od Žmavca sosed pa ud brata prjatu, Rimska cesta 21, +386 1 251 0324. Markets to the "creative urban type."
• Patrick's Irish Bar, Prečna 6 (Up a little side street off Trubarjeva. The ubiquitous Irish pub with Guinness and local beers on tap, with a typical menu of hearty meals available. Also typical is the welcoming atmosphere that seems common to all Irish pubs. Big screen TVs show sporting events, (mainly traditionally Irish Gaelic Games and occasionally soccer) but bar staff are happy to change a television to show other sports (Rugby Union, Rugby League, Cricket, AFL, NFL, etc.) on request. Watch out for expat and tour groups at popular sporting events from their 'home' country.
• Pr'skelet, Ključavničarska 5. Skeleton-themed basement bar in a side alley. Famous for an extensive variety of cocktails, and you get two for price of one, prices vary from €6 to 13.
• Pod Skalco, Gosposka 19 (just opposite to the Križanke auditorium, next to the City Museum of Ljubljana, on the back of the National & University Library. M-F 06:30-03:00, Sa Su 17:30-03:00. Popular student pub with an almost 150-year-long tradition, frequented almost exclusively by locals. Loud music.
• Ragamuffin, Krojaska 4. Intimate, reggae cafe-bar with good tunes.
• Vinoteka Movia, Mestni trg 2 (Next to the Town Hall. Anyone with any interest in wine should visit here. The cosy, candlelit wine bar comes with knowledgeable barmen who can recommend a wine based on your tastes. The wine glasses are huge, so it's hard to tell if they were being stingy or if it has simply spread out. Be careful about asking for ‘samples’, as they will charge you full price. The prices can vary from modest to a remortgage.
• Sir William's pub, Tavčarjeva ulica 8a, +386-599-44-825. M-F 08:00 - 01:00, Sa 10:00 - 14:00 and 19:00 - 01:00, Su 17:00 - 24:00. Located in the Art Nouveau part of Ljubljana city centre, offers more than 120 beer varieties and a large choice of teas and wines. It is vibrant in the evenings, particularly when it hosts themed events and beer tastings, while during the day it has a more coffee house-like atmosphere, offering its guests an opportunity to browse through a newspaper or read a book in peace. The staff speak several languages. Free wireless internet access is available.

BI-KO-FE, Židovska steza 2.. A lively artsy little bar that plays excellent jazz music (CD, not live). There is outside seating, but inside is where it seems to be happening. It looks like the place the youngish locals hangout to drink the night away. Coffee, teas, and alcoholic beverages.

Breg, Breg 2. Classy wine bar along the river.

Cutty Sark, Knafljev Prehod 1 (Opposite Cantina Mexicana. Lively pub with raucous atmosphere. Usually has live music.

Lepa Žoga, Celovška 43 (Near Tivoli Park. Main sports cafe/bar with sports regalia along the wall and a good, mixed crowd on most nights. Shows international rugby, all sorts of football games (European, English, Italian and other leagues) and other live sports. Has the best TV coverage in the city, ranging from Sky Sports to local TV stations.

Od Žmavca sosed pa ud brata prjatu, Rimska cesta 21, +386 1 251 0324. Markets to the "creative urban type."

Patrick's Irish Bar, Prečna 6 (Up a little side street off Trubarjeva. The ubiquitous Irish pub with Guinness and local beers on tap, with a typical menu of hearty meals available. Also typical is the welcoming atmosphere that seems common to all Irish pubs. Big screen TVs show sporting events, (mainly traditionally Irish Gaelic Games and occasionally soccer) but bar staff are happy to change a television to show other sports ([[Rugby Football|Rugby Union]], Rugby League, Cricket, AFL, [[NFL]], etc.) on request. Watch out for expat and tour groups at popular sporting events from their 'home' country.

Pr'skelet, Ključavničarska 5. Skeleton-themed basement bar in a side alley. Famous for an extensive variety of cocktails, and you get two for price of one, prices vary from €6 to 13.

Pod Skalco, Gosposka 19 (just opposite to the Križanke auditorium, next to the City Museum of Ljubljana, on the back of the National & University Library. M-F 06:30-03:00, Sa Su 17:30-03:00. Popular student pub with an almost 150-year-long tradition, frequented almost exclusively by locals. Loud music.

Ragamuffin, Krojaska 4. Intimate, reggae cafe-bar with good tunes.

Vinoteka Movia, Mestni trg 2 (Next to the Town Hall. Anyone with any interest in wine should visit here. The cosy, candlelit wine bar comes with knowledgeable barmen who can recommend a wine based on your tastes. The wine glasses are huge, so it's hard to tell if they were being stingy or if it has simply spread out. Be careful about asking for ‘samples’, as they will charge you full price. The prices can vary from modest to a remortgage.

Sir William's pub, Tavčarjeva ulica 8a, +386-599-44-825. M-F 08:00 - 01:00, Sa 10:00 - 14:00 and 19:00 - 01:00, Su 17:00 - 24:00. Located in the Art Nouveau part of Ljubljana city centre, offers more than 120 beer varieties and a large choice of teas and wines. It is vibrant in the evenings, particularly when it hosts themed events and beer tastings, while during the day it has a more coffee house-like atmosphere, offering its guests an opportunity to browse through a newspaper or read a book in peace. The staff speak several languages. Free wireless internet access is available.

Ljubljana has several good nightclubs (discothèques). The clubs hold special events, they will play a certain syle of music on certain nights, etc. Some will also impose a strict dress code and age limits.

• Metelkova mesto, Metelkova 8 (next to the train station. Daily 22:00-04:00. It's a squat with 6 clubs, each with its own style of music and program. Gala Hala is the biggest and the music is very diverse - from funk nights to hip-hop and indie to rap and strange fun music. It has also concerts and an outside garden where they also grill in the summer. Gromka is a smaller one usually admission free and the music also differs from night to night. Usually it's rock/alternative hits or rockabilly or fun 90s music. It has also concerts. Menza pri Koritu is the most alternative and it has mainly alternative, metal, punk concerts and after parties. Channel Zero is more about electronics (also concerts) - d'n'b, dub, electro, house. Jalla Jalla is the smallest one with sometimes obscure, experimental music. Tiffany is a gay club with usually electronic parties. In Metelkova everybody can find a place for himself (usually the most is happening on weekends) and you can just walk from one to another club and see what is going on (if there is no admission). free or up to €10.
• K4, Kersnikova 4. Tu-Su 22:00-02:30/04:00. National and international DJs play electronic music.
• Top, Tomšičeva 2 (opposite main post office that is on Čopova ulica. On the top floor/roof of a downtown department store, this trendy nightclub offers fantastic views of downtown Ljubljana. Music varies depending on the day of the week.

Metelkova mesto, Metelkova 8 (next to the train station. Daily 22:00-04:00. It's a squat with 6 clubs, each with its own style of music and program. Gala Hala is the biggest and the music is very diverse - from funk nights to hip-hop and indie to rap and strange fun music. It has also concerts and an outside garden where they also grill in the summer. Gromka is a smaller one usually admission free and the music also differs from night to night. Usually it's rock/alternative hits or rockabilly or fun 90s music. It has also concerts. Menza pri Koritu is the most alternative and it has mainly alternative, metal, punk concerts and after parties. Channel Zero is more about electronics (also concerts) - d'n'b, dub, electro, house. Jalla Jalla is the smallest one with sometimes obscure, experimental music. Tiffany is a gay club with usually electronic parties. In Metelkova everybody can find a place for himself (usually the most is happening on weekends) and you can just walk from one to another club and see what is going on (if there is no admission). free or up to €10.

K4, Kersnikova 4. Tu-Su 22:00-02:30/04:00. National and international DJs play electronic music.

Top, Tomšičeva 2 (opposite main post office that is on Čopova ulica. On the top floor/roof of a downtown department store, this trendy nightclub offers fantastic views of downtown Ljubljana. Music varies depending on the day of the week.

Ljubljana is possibly one of the safest capitals you'll ever visit. Remarkably safe during the day and night, as a tourist you should have no problems, provided you are not desperately looking for trouble.

Even the rougher parts of Ljubljana, located far from the city centre, are relatively safe, if you don't flash your valuables. These areas, not commonly frequented by tourists, include Fužine, Rakova Jelša, Štepanjsko naselje and parts of Šiška, Moste and Šentvid.

Tivoli Park is generally safe and a very popular destination for picnics or taking an afternoon stroll for an average Ljubljanian, but just as anywhere in the world it is recommended that you don't put your guard down and avoid larger groups of teenagers hanging around in the park late at night, as thefts and sexual assaults have been reported.

City center is covered with a Wi-fi network named WiFreeLjubljana that offers free access for 60 minutes a day. Service has just been launched, so coverage is not yet perfect, but is being actively improved.

Free internet access is also available at:

• Kiberpipa. One of the oldest and locally most important hackerspaces. It is searching for a new location.
• Faculty of Computer and Information Science and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaska 25.
• Simobil, Čopova (up towards the McDonald's from the Triple Bridge) - a Slovenian cell phone providers store, but the laptops upstairs have free internet access.

Check map of wireless internet (Wi-Fi) spots in Ljubljana (and nearby).

Almost free internet access is available at:

• Slovenian Tourist Information Center, Krekov trg 10.

Internet cafes:

Kiberpipa. One of the oldest and locally most important hackerspaces. It is searching for a new location.

Faculty of Computer and Information Science and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tržaska 25.

Simobil, Čopova (up towards the McDonald's from the Triple Bridge) - a Slovenian cell phone providers store, but the laptops upstairs have free internet access.

Slovenian Tourist Information Center, Krekov trg 10.

• Finland Finland, Ajdovščina 4/8, SI-1000, +386 1-3002120. M-F 10:00-12:00.
• Greece Greece, Trnovski pristan 14, Ljubljana 1000, +386 1 4201400, +386 1 4101410, +386 51 449956 (Emergencies). M-F 08:30-16:00.
• United Kingdom United Kingdom, 4th floor Trg Republike 3, Ljubljana 1000, +386 1 200 3910. M-F 08:00-16:00.

Finland Finland, Ajdovščina 4/8, SI-1000, +386 1-3002120. M-F 10:00-12:00.

Greece Greece, Trnovski pristan 14, Ljubljana 1000, +386 1 4201400, +386 1 4101410, +386 51 449956 (Emergencies). M-F 08:30-16:00.

United Kingdom United Kingdom, 4th floor Trg Republike 3, Ljubljana 1000, +386 1 200 3910. M-F 08:00-16:00.

• Šmarna gora (662 m), is a popular (and overcrowded, on weekends) hill on the northern outskirts of the city. For 30–60 minutes of easy climbing you will be rewarded by a nice view over the entire city. Bus number 8 will take you to the foothill; get off at Tacenski most.
• Off the beaten track, Krim mountain (1107 m), used to station a military and civilian communication center due to its strategic position overlooking most of Slovenia. With only the civilian part remaining, the top is open for public and offers a great 360 degrees panoramic view on clear days, especially after rain. The climb takes 2–3 hours (beware of bears!), yet the most convenient access is by car. The last 4 km of the road are unpaved and narrow, so even by car the journey will take about 30 minutes each way.

Hiking around Ljubljana offers even more ideas.

Šmarna gora (662 m), is a popular (and overcrowded, on weekends) hill on the northern outskirts of the city. For 30–60 minutes of easy climbing you will be rewarded by a nice view over the entire city. Bus number 8 will take you to the foothill; get off at Tacenski most.

Off the beaten track, Krim mountain (1107 m), used to station a military and civilian communication center due to its strategic position overlooking most of Slovenia. With only the civilian part remaining, the top is open for public and offers a great 360 degrees panoramic view on clear days, especially after rain. The climb takes 2–3 hours (beware of bears!), yet the most convenient access is by car. The last 4 km of the road are unpaved and narrow, so even by car the journey will take about 30 minutes each way.

• Bled - the most picturesque town in Slovenia, with a scenic lake with an island church, overlooked by a castle. Only 1 hour from Ljubljana.
• Triglav National Park and the Julian Alps - a paradise for outdoor adventurers. Opportunities abound for hiking, mountaineering, rafting, canyoning, paragliding, skydiving, etc., just outside of Bled
• Postojna - home to the remarkably huge Postojna Caves and the Predjama Castle
• Škocjan Caves - another set of remarkable caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Izola, Koper, Piran, and Portorož are on the coast of Slovenia and offer beautiful scenery. Do a little sailing or water sports or walk around the old city of Piran.
• Kamnik - button-cute little town 45 min north of Ljubljana, just below the Kamnik Alps. It has a perfectly preserved medieval town center.
• Zagreb, Croatia - 2.5 hours by train
• Rijeka, Croatia - 2.5 hours by train
• Trieste, Italy - a nice costal town with strong heritage out of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy times, ca. 1½ hr by car, 2 hr by bus
• Grosuplje

As one would expect for Slovenia's national sport, there are several ski resorts all across the country and at least one is likely to be an easy addition to any travel itinerary to the area.

• Krvavec ski resort is in the Kamnik Alps and consistently reported to be one of the best. It is about 35 km north of Ljubljana.

Hitchhiking in or out of Ljubljana is possible and widely practiced, but take the usual precautions.

• North towards Maribor, Austria - from the main street, West of the Train station (Dunajska Cesta) take buses 6, 8 or 11 in direction of North. Get off in the station "Smelt", 15 minutes later, when you see the "World Trade Center" building. Ahead of you, you will see the highway. On the first turn to the right, go into the highway entry and stand on the side with your sign.
• South towards Koper, Rijeka, Italy - from the city center (Dunajska cesta, Kongresni trg) take bus number 6 in direction south, till the last station (Dolgi most). Get out, and on your left side you will side the entry lane into the highway. There will also be an entry to a parking of a small house, stand on the side there with your sign (you will see where everybody else stands).
• East towards Novo mesto, Zagreb, Croatia - from the city center (Dunajska cesta) take bus number 3 in direction south, till the last station (Rudnik). Get out, and walk 200 m more along Dolenjska cesta until you get to the crossroad and the entry point to the highway (left turn, opposite to the railroad crossing). Stand on the side there with your sign (there are some hitchhikers but not all the time).