During my inter-railing experience this summer, it was an absolute pleasure to have the opportunity to visit the capital of Slovenia, Ljubliana. Slovenia is one of the greenest countries in Europe and therefore travelling by train was a true joy. The city is quite unknown, perhaps because there is not as much energy and activity in Ljubliana as in other cities. However, after weeks on trains, it is absolutely the perfect place to spend a few peaceful last days on a trip.
Where to eat and drink:
In Slovenia, you no longer benefit from the overwhelming cheapness of some of Eastern Europe and therefore it was necessary to be a bit more frugal. However there are some places I would recommend…
- Cacao: For incredible ice cream, smoothies and the most decadent hot chocolate I have ever indulged in.
- Le Petit Café: You feel as though you have been transported to Paris as you sit on the terrace in a beautiful square having wine, beer or coffee and taking in the wonderful atmosphere.
- For a cheap lunch go for a pizza slice or be a bit more authentic by trying Börek – an Eastern European pasty – which comes in many flavours.
What to see and do:
- The famous bridges – Dragon Bridge and Triple Bridge.
- The salmon pink Franciscan Church of the Annunciation.
- Just for the beauty of the building, the upmarket shopping centre Galerija Emporium is worth exploring.
- The National History Museum, where you can see the world’s oldest instrument.
- Rent a bike – a cheap and fun way to get around.
- Have a look at the magnificent entrance to the library – all other rooms are sadly off limits.
Not to be missed:
Lake Bled is possibly the most picturesque place I have seen, it is a short train and bus journey away from the capital and is somewhere anyone even just passing through Slovenia should see. It is beautiful and calm, yet full of things to do. Here are some things to do while you are there:
- Appreciate all the cute dogs!
- Have a listen to the real mixture of Italian and Slovenian you will hear as you are near the border.
- Walk around the entire lake; it really only takes an hour or so and it is worth seeing it from all angles.
- Hire a swan boat and row to the lake’s island where you can see a beautiful Church which is often host to a wedding.
- Have a swim in the icy, but refreshing and very clean water. The colour of it is amazing!
- Then, if it’s a nice day, indulge in some sunbathing.
Where I stayed:
Take a look at airbnb.co.uk for beautiful apartments. We stayed in a lovely flat, in a good location, with a friendly host – I would recommend staying there a million times over!
For more information on Ljubliana or any other European city, take a look at the book ‘Europe on a Shoestring’.
I’ll be back in a few weeks with another city guide that will hopefully have you all eager to pack your suitcases!
Photo Credits: Alice McAnulty