Been there | Ljubljana Profile

Ljubljana
Photo: Howard Freeman

Hidden treasure

IanClover

Set in the east of Slovenia near Italy and at the foot of the Julian Alps, Ljubljana is the undiscovered gem of Europe. As a capital city it is small and spotlessly clean, and the whole place looks stunning; imagine Florence before the tourists arrived. That is not to say that Ljubljana is not modern - it is completely westernised and the standard of living here is very high.

For the backpacker, there are only a couple of hostels to be had, but they are decent enough and are all centrally located and cheap. Ljubljana has embraced all things good about European culture but without the price - you can survive here on a relatively tight budget. Pleasures include taking a trip up to the castle on the hill to admire the views, and strolling along the river at night whilst picking a restaurant to eat in - this really is continental leisure-pleasure at its finest.

Enjoy Mediterranean summers and frozen winters, sparkling baroque architecture and genuinely friendly locals. 60km north west of Ljubljana are the great lakes of Bled and Bohinj. A day-trip to these natural wonders is competitively priced and easliy booked - just turn up at the bus station in the morning and go. They are perhaps the most enchanting lakes in Europe, and well worth a visit.

Send a tip

Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk

Send a tip

How to use Been there

Your tips about Ljubljana

eating (3) | bar (1) | accommodation (1)


This place
This country

Flights and hotels