Wow! That was my immediate thought as I arrived in Ljubljana. The correct way to pronounce Slovenia’s capital city is Loo-bee-ana. It’s strikingly beautiful, vibrantly green, and genuinely welcoming. My driver proudly shared that every time a child is born in Slovenia, a tree is planted. No wonder 70% of the country is forest! It’s not just pretty; it’s progressive, safe, and car-free in the historic city center. From a riverfront hotel to the Ljubljana Castle and a traditional lunch, here’s how to spend 24 hours in Ljubljana.
Ljubljana wears its green badge proudly. Named the European Green Capital in 2016, Ljubljana was the first European capital to be par of the Zero Waste Europe Network. They even have a National Day of the Bee (May 20th) in a nod to Slovenia’s longstanding commitment to sustainability and biodiversity.
Where I Stayed: The Hotel Ljubljana
A happy accident kicked off my stay. My driver dropped me at the wrong hotel. But I welcomed the mistake, enjoying a scenic 15-minute sunset walk to The Hotel Ljubljana, nestled on the river near the heart of the city. I stayed in Room 102, which is technically on the second floor since the first floor is ground level in Europe. The room is modern minimalistic and I love the view looking out over the river. It put me in the heart of the city for 24 hours in Ljubljana.
Dinner at POP’s Pizza
I kept it light with dinner at POP’s Pizza, where I sipped a glass of Malvasia from Zaro Winery, a Greek varietal grown in Slovenia’s coastal wine region. I nearly ordered the Margherita, but my waiter suggested the Sofia D.O.P.—a leveled-up version with sweet buffalo mozzarella. The 100% sourdough dough is fermented for 48 hours. I sat outside along the river and devoured every bite.
Morning at The Hotel + Exploring Ljubljana Castle
Before venturing out I started with a relaxed breakfast at The Restaurant inside The Hotel. My pick? Avocado toast with marinated salmon and a perfectly poached egg, paired with a cappuccino.
Then it was off for a morning walk up Castle Hill via Reber, a steep series of stone steps, only stopping to take in panoramic city views. You can’t spend 24 hours in Ljubljana and not explore it’s most iconic spot.
Ljubljana Castle dates back to the late Middle Ages and was built primarily as a military stronghold. I recommend doing the audio tour so you can go at your own pace learning about the castle’s transformation throughout the years, including being a penitentiary in the 19th century. I started at the open-air prison where prisoners were exposed to the elements year-round.
Head up to the Viewing Terrace for sweeping views of the city and a bird’s eye view of the castle. Don’t miss the Pentagonal Tower, the Museum of Puppetry (Slovenian puppetry began in 1910), and St. George’s Chapel – all included in self-guided tour.
Exploring Castle Hill
Instead of taking the funicular down, I wandered through Šance Fortress Park, once the most extreme edge of the castle’s defense system. I took a trail to the castle’s vineyard. Since 2016, Ljubljana Castle Vineyard has grown 1,050 vines—500 white Chardonnay (called Belpin) and 550 red Zweigelt (Rdečegrajc). Then, I followed the charmingly named Fleischmann’s Parsnip Path that took me past a bee house on my way down to the city centre.
City Wandering & Local Finds
I popped into Skrbovin’ca, a delightful shop where everything is handmade by people with special abilities. Near the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, I found a flower market blooming with color.
For €3, I stepped inside the Cathedral built between 1701–1706. Inside, stunning frescoes cover the ceilings, and the organ is truly a work of art. The Jubilee Cross, dating to the 15th century, is one of Slovenia’s most treasured medieval relics.
Near by is Čokoladnica Cukrček, a Slovenian chocolate shop where I bought chocolate balls of hazelnuts wrapped in nougat and a couple other sweet treats.
Lunch at Slovenska Hiša
For a late lunch I took the recommendation of a local and headed toa Slovenska Hiša. It’s a great spot for traditional Slovenian fare away from the river, but still in city centre. This location is a locals’ favorite. I went for vegetable dumplings as my traditional lunch.
Why You’ll Fall for Ljubljana
It’s hard not to be enchanted by this green capital city with its perfect blend of history, hospitality, and sustainability. I wrapped up my 24 hours in Ljubljana sipping a spritz while working at one of the riverside tables at The Restaurant back at The Hotel. One night isn’t enough. but it’s just enough to know you’ll want to come back.
Travel always begins with little uncertainties — Will the city feel safe? Will I find my way? Will it feel like home, even just for a night? Reading about your journey to Ljubljana, I could feel those questions gently dissolve, replaced by the ease that comes when a place instantly welcomes you.
Your story about being dropped at the wrong hotel made me smile because I’ve been there — that moment of slight frustration turning into an unexpected gift. It’s so similar to arriving in Pokhara, Nepal, where sometimes plans shift, drivers take a different route, and yet somehow you end up discovering a hidden lakeside path or a quiet lodge with a view that feels meant for you.
And the way you described walking the riverfront, sipping wine under an open sky, and tasting pizza that wasn’t just food but a small celebration of place — that’s the kind of simple, soul-deep joy you get by Phewa Lake. The same feeling of sitting by the water, with the Himalayas watching over you, savoring each bite of a dish made with care, and realizing you’ve found one of those rare places where time slows down.
Your climb up Castle Hill reminded me of walking up to Sarangkot, one careful step at a time, heart racing not just from the effort but from the anticipation of what waits at the top. Then you described standing on the terrace, gazing over the city — that’s exactly the way Pokhara feels when you look out over the lake and see the Annapurnas catching the first blush of morning light.
What struck me most was how you captured the vibe — green, clean, safe, and deeply alive. Ljubljana wears its identity like a badge of honor, and so does Pokhara, with its tree-lined roads, charming cafes, mountain-view lodges, and a community that feels as welcoming as an old friend.
It isn’t just about visiting; it’s about belonging, even if only for a moment. And that, I think, is what makes cities like Ljubljana — and Pokhara — stay with you long after you leave.
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