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Planning a short trip to Ljubljana? You’re in the right place!
This charming little capital is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets—and after exploring Ljubljana multiple times, we’ve crafted the perfect two-day itinerary to help you experience its highlights without feeling rushed. With leafy riverbanks, a hilltop castle, and a café culture that rivals much bigger cities, Ljubljana is easy to explore and even easier to fall in love with.
You’ll glide along the Ljubljanica River, wander medieval streets with mountain views peeking through, and sample local Slovenian flavors in cozy restaurants tucked away from the crowds. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this itinerary blends iconic landmarks with hidden local gems to help you make the most of your time in this fairytale city. Let’s get started!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this small-group day trip to Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle, and Lake Bled. Between underground train rides, clifftop castles, and peaceful lake views, it felt like stepping into a fairytale!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Itinerary Overview
- Day 1
- Breakfast – Start your day with a stylish breakfast at Ek Bistro
- Morning – Visit the Ljubljana Castle
- Afternoon – Explore Ljubljana on a walking and boat tour
- Lunch – Grab a casual late lunch at Abi Falafel
- Evening – Taste your way through Slovenia’s wine regions in a 300-year-old cellar
- Dinner – Wrap up the day with traditional dishes at Slovenska Hiša – Figovec
- Day 2
- Where to Stay in Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Itinerary Overview
Ljubljana is refreshingly compact, so getting around is a breeze. The entire old town is pedestrian-friendly and incredibly walkable, no need for a car here. Most of the highlights are clustered around the river and castle hill, and you can get from one end of the center to the other in under 20 minutes on foot.
If you’re venturing a bit farther, like to your tour meeting points or out for dinner, there are plenty of quick and affordable options. Rideshares like Bolt operate in the city, and there’s also a reliable local bus network and regional trains if you’re heading out of town.
Day 1: Explore Ljubljana’s historic center with a visit to the castle, then enjoy a scenic walking and boat tour before an evening of tastings and traditional Slovenian cuisine.
Day 2: Take a full-day trip to some of Slovenia’s most iconic sights: Lake Bled, Postojna Cave, and Predjama Castle, then wind down with pizza and a cozy local bar.
Day 1
Breakfast – Start your day with a stylish breakfast at Ek Bistro
Start your first morning in Ljubljana with a delicious breakfast at Ek Bistro, a local favorite that opens bright and early at 8 am. It’s just a 7-minute walk from the funicular lower station, perfectly placed for a relaxed bite before heading up to the castle.
The vibe is stylish but cozy, and the food? Way better than your standard eggs and toast. We had the truffled scrambled eggs and shakshuka, both beautifully presented and seriously delicious. The place fills up fast (especially on weekends), so we recommend getting there not long after opening to beat the rush.
Morning – Visit the Ljubljana Castle
After breakfast, make your way to Ljubljana Castle, which sits right in the heart of the city. We took the funicular up just after it opened at 9 am, and the timing worked perfectly; you beat the crowds and still have plenty of time to explore before lunch.
The castle itself has over 900 years of history, and while it’s been renovated, it still feels atmospheric. We spent a solid two hours here wandering the towers, enjoying the views from the Outlook Tower, and popping into the interactive exhibitions and puppet museum. The panoramic views over the old town are reason enough to visit, especially on a clear day!
We definitely recommend booking your tickets online in advance here, which includes the funicular. Not only will you save a bit (they’re €17.10 instead of €20 at the gate), but you’ll also get to skip the line. If you’re into details, there’s an option that includes an audio guide too.
Afternoon – Explore Ljubljana on a walking and boat tour
This walking and boat tour was easily one of our favorite ways to get to know Ljubljana, and we’d recommend it in a heartbeat. It runs from 12 pm to 2:30 pm and covers so much in just a couple of hours, without ever feeling rushed.
The meeting point is just a short walk from the castle’s funicular station (less than 10 mins!), which makes it super easy to get to after your morning exploring the hilltop. The walking portion takes you through both the old and new towns, with plenty of insight into Ljubljana’s architecture and history. We especially loved the stops at Dragon Bridge, the Town Hall, and the Central Market, where we got to try a slice of traditional Slovenian cake (a tasty little surprise!).
After stretching our legs, we boarded a glass-domed boat for a peaceful cruise along the Ljubljanica River. The views from the water were stunning, and the calm pace gave us time to just soak it all in. The tour finishes with a visit to the Ljubljana Skyscraper, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views over the city rooftops and, on a clear day, the Julian Alps in the distance.
We think it’s one of the most enjoyable and well-rounded tours in the city. And we’re not the only ones who think so—check out over 200 glowing reviews here to see why this is the best way to get to know Ljubljana!
Reserve this tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Lunch – Grab a casual late lunch at Abi Falafel
After the tour wraps up around 2:30 pm, it’s just a 5-minute walk to Abi Falafel, a casual spot that hit the mark when we were craving something quick, fresh, and satisfying. This place is a bit of a local legend for its Middle Eastern street food, and we totally get why.
The menu is packed with options like falafel wraps, hummus bowls, and grilled halloumi plates. We went with the mixed platter to try a bit of everything, and it was the perfect midday refuel. Portions are generous, and service is fast, so you’ll still have time to relax before your evening plans.
After lunch, you’ll have about an hour and a half to enjoy a slower pace. We suggest following the walking paths along the river, which are lined with cafés, boutiques, and historic bridges. It’s a lovely stretch to wander and soak up more of Ljubljana’s charm before heading to your tasting next.
Evening – Taste your way through Slovenia’s wine regions in a 300-year-old cellar
After a relaxed stroll along the river and a bit of downtime, it’s time to switch gears and dive into one of Ljubljana’s most rewarding local experiences—this popular tasting in a 300-year-old cellar, running from 5 to 7 pm.
Over the course of two hours, we sampled seven pours from across Slovenia’s diverse regions, from fresh and floral to bold and full-bodied, finishing with a sweet dessert sip that totally won us over. Each glass came with its own backstory, full of local character, production insight, and the occasional quirky anecdote.
There were also fun tasting games that had us testing our senses (and competing a bit with our fellow tasters). Paired with local cheeses, cured meats, and olives, it made for the perfect pre-dinner experience.
We walked away with some new favorites and a genuine appreciation for Slovenia’s incredible regional flavors, which deserve way more attention than they get. Read the five-star reviews here to see why this experience is a must on any Ljubljana itinerary!
Treat your tastebuds and book this tour here in advance!
Dinner – Wrap up the day with traditional dishes at Slovenska Hiša – Figovec
After your tasting wraps up at 7 pm, take a scenic 20-minute walk through the city center to Slovenska Hiša – Figovec, a cozy spot that serves up some of the best traditional Slovenian food we tried in Ljubljana. It’s a great way to wind down the day, hearty, flavorful, and full of local charm.
The menu features all the Slovenian classics, but we especially recommend trying the štruklji, rolled dumplings served with garlic sauce that totally stole the show for us. They also do excellent stews and seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, and the staff were happy to explain what everything was (which we appreciated!).
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with a bit of a vintage tavern feel. If you’re lucky enough to grab an outdoor seat, you can enjoy dinner while watching the city slowly wind down for the evening.
Day 2
Full day – Take a full-day tour to Lake Bled, Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle
Get ready for a full day of jaw-dropping scenery and storybook landscapes—this small-group sightseeing tour is the highlight of many trips to Slovenia, including ours. We grabbed a quick coffee from Stow 2 Go (right near the meeting point) before hopping in the van at 8:20 am, and we were off on a one-day journey that took us to three of the most iconic places in the country.
The first stop was Postojna Cave, where we rode a mini-train deep into the underground and wandered through vast chambers filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. It felt like something straight out of a fantasy novel!
Next up was Predjama Castle, perched dramatically into the side of a cliff. The castle’s history is fascinating, especially the tale of the rebellious knight Erazem, who’s said to still haunt the place. We loved hearing our guide’s stories while walking through the eerie, atmospheric rooms.
To end the day, we made our way to Lake Bled, where a traditional pletna boat carried us across the glacial lake to Bled Island. There’s a peacefulness to this spot that’s hard to describe, and once we climbed up to Bled Castle, the views of the lake and the Julian Alps completely stole our hearts.
The tour returns to Ljubljana around 6:30 pm, giving you just enough time to freshen up before heading out for dinner. While entrance fees to the cave and castle aren’t included, we think this tour is still one of the best ways to experience Slovenia’s highlights in a single, well-organized day.
Check out over 700 5-star reviews and secure your space here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Settle back in Ljubljana with pizza at Pizzeria Foculus
After getting back to the city around 6:30 pm, we were more than ready for something cozy and satisfying, and Pizzeria Foculus absolutely hit the spot. It’s just a short walk from the tour drop-off point and has a warm, laid-back atmosphere that feels like a local favorite.
The menu is huge, with dozens of pizza options ranging from classic Margherita to more inventive combos topped with Slovenian cheeses and cured meats. We each picked a different kind and ended up sharing slices; all of them were thin, crispy, and delicious. They also serve local crafts and have vegetarian options if that’s your vibe.
After a full day of sightseeing, this place was exactly what we needed. Nothing fancy, just great pizza in a casual setting that’s easy to love.
Evening – Close out the night with drinks and live music at Nostalgija Vintage Café
To end your trip on a high note, head over to Nostalgija, a vintage-style café and bar tucked away in Ljubljana’s center. After a full day out and a comforting pizza dinner, this spot was the perfect place for us to unwind. It’s cozy, quirky, and filled with retro charm!
Depending on the night, you might catch some live acoustic music in the background, which only adds to the welcoming, laid-back vibe. We loved sipping on a cold drink and just soaking in the atmosphere. Even if there’s no music, it’s still a great spot for a quiet drink and a bit of people-watching.
It’s an easygoing, feel-good way to wrap up your two days in Ljubljana, and one of those places you’ll wish you had a local version of back home.
Related Read: Want even more inspiration? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Ljubljana here for more can’t-miss experiences in Slovenia’s charming capital.
Where to Stay in Ljubljana, Slovenia
Now that you’ve got your days mapped out, it’s time to find your perfect home base in Ljubljana. The right stay puts you steps from riverside cafés, historic streets, and lively squares, with options from Old Town boutiques to modern apartments with castle views. If these stays are still available for your dates, grab them quickly—Ljubljana’s best spots tend to book up fast.
Luxury – $$$
The Grand Plaza Hotel and Congress Center is the ultimate choice for a luxurious stay in Ljubljana. This modern 5-star hotel features a variety of elegant rooms and suites that offer stunning city views and top-tier amenities. Guests can enjoy the on-site fitness center, restaurant, and stylish bar. It is also conveniently located within walking distance of the city center, making it the perfect base to explore Ljubljana!
Prices range depending on the season but usually start around €160 in the slow winter season and €300 during the busy summer season. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The City Hotel Ljubljana is a fantastic mid-range option, offering comfort and convenience in the heart of the city. The modern rooms are spacious and well-equipped, featuring everything you need for a relaxing stay, including free Wi-Fi and workspaces. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast, enjoy the on-site restaurant, or unwind at the bar after exploring the city. Plus, its central location means you’re just a short walk from Ljubljana’s Old Town and iconic landmarks!
Prices start around €120 per night during the low season and €200 per night during the high season. You can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
The Apartments Maria offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations in Ljubljana, including private rooms with shared bathrooms and en-suite options, as well as fully equipped apartments. Each unit provides free Wi-Fi and essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Located within walking distance of the city center, I think it’s a great choice for travelers looking to explore Ljubljana without overspending!
Rooms start as low as €55 per night, and you can visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Ljubljana’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Ljubljana may be small, but it’s one of those European gems that leaves a big impression—historic streets, riverside charm, and just the right balance of adventure and relaxation. After exploring this city multiple times, we can confidently say this two-day itinerary will help you see the best of the best without feeling rushed.
If you’re planning a longer trip, don’t miss all our Europe guides here—they’re packed with itineraries, where-to-stay tips, and top things to do. Or, check out some of our favorite blogs below for even more travel inspiration and start planning your next adventure!
8 Things to do in Zagreb, Croatia
10 Best Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia
10 BEST Things to do in Vienna, Austria
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Budapest, Hungary: 3-Day Itinerary