Ljubljana on a Budget: 3 Day Adventure Guide!

Experience the charm of Ljubljana without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Ljubljana is a charming destination for budget travelers looking to experience a mix of history, culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Hiring a bike or taking a free walking tour will allow you to explore the city's highlights from the iconic Triple Bridge to the lush Tivoli Park. To save on accommodation, consider staying in one of the numerous hostels or booking an Airbnb outside the city's center.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting acquainted with Ljubljana

  • Explore the pedestrian-only city center, filled with stores and cafes.
  • Take a historic walking tour led by a local guide.
  • Ascend to the top of Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views.
  • Check out the graffiti-filled Metelkova District for a taste of the city's alternative culture.
  • Dine on traditional Slovenian dishes at Gostilna na Gradu, right within the castle.
  • Stay at: Fluxus Hostel, centrally located and affordable with clean and modern furnishings.
Day 2

Natural wonders and art

  • Bike along the Ljubljanica River to Tivoli Park, the city's largest, dotted with fountains and monuments.
  • Visit the National Museum of Slovenia and the Ethnographic Museum to learn more about the country's diverse history.
  • Marvel at the modern and abstract exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
  • Stroll through the breathtaking botanical gardens at the University of Ljubljana.
  • Dine on fresh and inventive vegan cuisine at Loving Hut.
  • Stay at: Central Hotel, cozy and budget-friendly with a prime location a few blocks from the river.
Day 3

Day trips and local tastes

  • Take a bus to the stunning Skocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a massive underground canyon.
  • Visit the picturesque town of Bled, famous for its glacial lake and charming church on a tiny island.
  • Stop at a roadside farm stand for homemade honey and other local treats.
  • Tour the family-run Union Brewery and sip on their award-winning pilsner.
  • Savor contemporary Balkan dishes at Strelec, an elegant restaurant perched atop Ljubljana Castle.
  • Stay at: Hostel Celica, a re-purposed prison turned into a unique and affordable lodging experience just outside the city center.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ljubljana, Slovenia by plane is by flying into Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, which is located approximately 26 km north of the city center. Major airlines such as Air France, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines offer direct flights to Ljubljana from various cities throughout Europe.

Car

Driving to Ljubljana is a great option for those who want to explore the country at their own pace. The best route to Ljubljana from other European countries is via the A2/E61 motorway. However, be aware that tolls are required when using the motorway.

Train

Although there are no direct trains to Ljubljana from other countries, taking the train to the city is still possible. The best option is to take the train to one of the nearby cities such as Salzburg, Graz or Venice, and then transfer to a train that goes to Ljubljana. The main train station in Ljubljana is the Ljubljana Railway Station.

Boat

Although Slovenia is a landlocked country, there are still opportunities to take a boat to Ljubljana. The Ljubljanica River runs through the city, and visitors can take boat tours along the river to see the city from a different perspective. These tours typically depart from the Ljubljana City Centre.

Bus

Taking the bus to Ljubljana is a popular and affordable option. Eurolines provides bus services from various European cities to Ljubljana. The main bus station in Ljubljana is the Ljubljana Bus Station, which is located just outside the city center.

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