Travel to Ljubljana

Travel to Ljubljana

Ljubljana is a wonderful holiday destination that has so farescaped the tourist crowds of neighbouring European countries. Slovenias capital enjoys a scenic location, and is divided by the Ljubjanica River. Its a city of immense culture, with several theatres, galleries and museums to explore as well as a renowned philharmonic orchestra, which is one ofthe oldest orchestrasin the world. The surroundings of the city are mountainous and skiers will find excellent action at nearby resorts. In wintertime, temperatures frequently drop below zero, while many spring and autumn days enjoy beautifully mild weather.

Transportation to Ljubljana

Ljubljana Airport is situated just 17 miles to the northwest of the city. Connections to Munich and Frankfurt are available with Adria Airways, and direct flights are also offered to London, Brussels and a number of other major European centres. EasyJet operate frequent flights from London to the Slovenian capital, with flights taking just over 2 hours.

There are major roads connecting the city with surrounding countries and regional cities. Driving from Munich or Vienna to Ljubljana takes 4 hours, while the journey from Venice takes up to 5 hours. Drivers can reach Ljubljana along the E70 from Zagreb and along the E61/E70 from Maribor or Trieste, with journeys averaging around 2 hours.

Rail travel is also an option withconnections available to many European destinations. Eurocity Mimara operates the popular Zagreb-Ljubljana-Jesenice route.

What to see

The Old Town offers the greatest range of attractions and makes for a good starting point for a walking tour of the city. The area features some spectacularly well-preserved medieval houses as well as the Town Hall and the famous Robba Fountain. One of the citys foremost landmarks is the castle at Castle Hill, which dates back to the 9th century.

Of further historical importance is St Nicholas Cathedral, the Seminary and Bishops Palace. The Botanical Garden is a more recent addition to the city, having been established in 1810, and is well worth a visit. The gardens are home to 4,500 species, and are of cardinal importance to the local ecology, helping to protect the endemic species of Slovenia.

Daytrips

Ljubljana Marsh is a remarkable natural phenomenon on the outskirts of the city. This 163 square-kilometre basin is just to the southwest of the city, and accommodates a wide variety of birds and endangered species. Also within easy reach of the city is the Italian city of Trieste, and the beautiful Adriatic coast of Istria.

Those who venture further to the south can also enjoy the scenic Dalmatian coastline, while inland, a visit to Lake Bled is highly recommended. The lake has been one of Slovenias most famous resorts since the 1900s, with thermal waters, spa facilities and bathing areas available, all just a 1-hour drive north of Ljubljana. While panoramic views of Ljubljana can be enjoyed from the 667m high marna Gora, located just nine kilometres from the city. St Marys sanctuary is at the summit, and wellworth a look.

Activities and leisure

Ljubljana is a highly cultured city, with an extensive choice of theatres, bars, restaurants and nightclubs. There are wonderful cafs dotted around the city as well as several excellent live and alternative music venues. Whether youre looking to enjoy a quiet caf in the Old Town, or to jazz the summer night away, youll find something to suit yourmood in Ljubljana.

Safety issues

Though generally a safe city, visitors should be attentive to their belongings and whereabouts at all times, and remain alert to the risk of pickpockets. Driving can be dangerous, especially at night-time, and particular care should be exercised when crossing roads after dark. To ensure that your trip is worry-free, and that you will becovered in the event of any emergency, you are encouraged to take out travel insurance when booking your trip to Slovenia.