Ljubljana holidays: Discover Slovenia's charming capital

Ljubljana at a glance

• Flight duration (from London): 2 hours 15 minutes

• Main airport: Ljubljana Joze Pucnik International Airport

• Population: 290,000

• Language: Slovenian

• Currency: Euro

• Time zone: Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)

The best time to visit Ljubljana

Ljubljana is stunning all year round, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of adventure you're after. Summer is the peak season, with temperatures reaching 30°C. Ljubljana comes alive with open-air concerts, street performances and festivals like Ana Desetnica (street theatre festival). Enjoy alfresco dining along the river, take a day trip to Lake Bled or rent a bike to explore the city. Just be prepared for crowds and slightly higher prices.

Spring is when Ljubljana wakes up from winter, and the city is blooming with flowers and buzzing with outdoor cafes. The Ljubljanica River is perfect for a scenic boat cruise, and Tivoli Park is great for picnics and strolls. With mild weather and fewer tourists, it's a great time to explore.

Autumn is the wine and truffle season. The harvest season brings wine festivals, fresh truffles and chestnut stalls around town. The autumn foliage in Tivoli Park is breathtaking. Plus, there are fewer tourists, making it a great time for sightseeing and castle visits.

Ljubljana turns into a fairytale winter wonderland with Christmas markets, festive lights and mulled wine stalls. Ice skating in Congress Square, visiting the Winter Festival or taking a day trip to the Julian Alps for skiing will keep you busy.

Discover Ljubljana's quirky bridges

Ljubljana is more than just charming streets and a fairytale castle. It's also home to some seriously quirky bridges. Start with the famous Dragon Bridge, guarded by four fierce dragon statues.

Next, stroll to the Triple Bridge, a unique three-in-one design by architect Joze Plecnik. Then, there's the Butcher's Bridge, where lovers lock their names onto railings while eerie bronze sculptures add a spooky touch. Finally, check out the Cobbler's Bridge, once home to shoemakers and now a favourite spot for street musicians.

Go on a cruise on the Ljubljanica River

Hop aboard a Ljubljanica River cruise and see the city from a whole new angle. Glide under Ljubljana's famous bridges, including the Dragon Bridge and Triple Bridge, while soaking in views of the Old Town and lush riverside promenades. Choose a wooden boat for a cosy, romantic vibe or a modern glass-roofed vessel for panoramic city views.

Q: What are the rainy months in Slovenia?

A: The rainy months in Slovenia typically last from April to August, with May and June being the wettest. During this period, you can expect frequent showers, especially in mountainous regions. Autumn (September to November) also brings some rain, particularly in October, although it's usually more sporadic. The rain tends to come in short bursts, so it's still possible to enjoy outdoor activities with proper gear.

Q: Is Lake Bled a day trip from Ljubljana?

A: Yes, Lake Bled is an easy and scenic day trip from Ljubljana! It's just a 45-minute drive or about an hour by bus from the city, making it perfect for a day of exploration. You can visit Bled Castle, take a boat to Bled Island or simply enjoy a stroll around the lake.