Published 11th Dec. 2025
Written by Emily Heeks
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Ljubljana, sometimes nicknamed ‘Little Prague’ or ‘The City of Dragons’, is an unsung gem. Slovenia’s capital city deserves more than just a day, but if you’re limited on time, we have the perfect guide on how to spend 24 hours in Ljubljana. Enjoy a boat cruise on the historic Ljubljanica River, learn about legends of mythical beasts and marvel at the Medieval Ljubljana Castle which watches over the city from its hilltop perch. Just watch out for dragons lurking around every corner (just statues – fear not!). Read on for our guide on how to spend 24 hours in Ljubljana and soak up its charm from morning to night…
You’re going to need a hearty breakfast and caffeine hit before you explore Ljubljana’s many attractions in a day. Often regarded as one of the most walkable and pedestrian-friendly cities in Europe, you’ll have no issue getting your steps in. Start your day by heading to a cosy café for a traditional Slovenian breakfast: freshly baked bread with butter and honey, paired with a glass of milk and an apple. If you’re hungry for more, try out Ljubljana’s many patisseries and bakeries which serve decadent cakes, macarons, chocolate pralines and fruit tarts.
Image by Oliver Romano
Breakfast ticked off, it’s time to head to one of the city’s many historic coffee shops for a caffeine hit. Many have been in the same families for generations and you’ll find them dotted along every winding, cobblestoned street. Alternatively, head straight to the Central Market, a bustling two-storey hall on the river which sells a variety of fresh produce, local specialties and artisan souvenirs.
Image by Bryan Dijkhuizen
A trip to Ljubljana isn’t complete without visiting the city’s landmark attraction – Ljubljana Castle – which has stood above the city for around 900 years. At an elevation of 1,300ft, it offers fairytale views over Ljubljana’s golden rooftops, trees and the winding river – all set against the backdrop of the Kamniske alps. Enjoy the walk up Castle Hill, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way, or, if you want to save your legs for later, ride the funicular that takes you right to the top. The best way to explore the castle is on a tour where guides can explain both the history and ghostly legends that haunt this historic site.
Ljubljana is primarily known for its architecture and history, but its parks are a real treat too. Ljubljana won the 2016 Green Capital of Europe award and, fun fact, has over 5,000 sq ft of green space per citizen – impressive! To feel like a local, why not rent a bike? Ljubljana has a car-free city centre, and exploring on two wheels is the most efficient way to see the sights.
Don’t miss a visit to Tivoli Park along the way. This swathe of lush greenery in the heart of the city has been around for over 200 years and is home to the Jakopic Promenade and Tivoli Mansion, which serves as an outdoor art gallery. If you’re starting to feel peckish, head to Roznik Hill where you’ll find a restaurant serving traditional Slovenian food (think stews, grains and skuta – fermented curd cheese), or head to Azur for hearty Italian fare.
Now it’s time for some dragon sightseeing. In Ljubljana’s ancient lore, dragons were initially portrayed as formidable beasts but have slowly become seen as fierce and loyal protectors of the city. A visit to the Dragon Bridge is a must (the dragons that guard it are practically celebrities), but you’ll find them adorning almost every corner of the city, from drain covers to shop fronts. You might just feel as if you’ve wandered into the set of Game of Thrones.
Every year, the city also hosts The Dragon Carnival, a costumed parade with marching bands. If you’re lucky, you may meet Zmajcek (known as Little Dragon). Or, if you want a dragon to take home with you, be sure to find Ljubo, the mascot of Ljubljana and the cutest dragon of them all.
Image by Aldo Pavan / Getty Images
Admire the city from a new angle on a sunset boat tour along the Ljubljanica River. Many of the boats are fully electric and have zero emissions – another example of how Ljubljana seamlessly blends its history and heritage with modern, eco-friendly innovation. Cruise past the city’s scenic riverbanks, home to weeping willows and numerous bird species, and enjoy a Slovenian specialty – Cvicek, a light wine – as the city drifts by.
Image by Corbett Campbell
To round off your day in Ljubljana, head to Presernov Square, the city’s main square, located in the Old Town. Admire the historic architecture designed by Joze Plecnik. The city’s charm owes much to this famous architect, whose vision shaped its streets and squares, from the market to the churches, banks and bridges. Ljubljana is unique in that no other capital has been so completely moulded by a single architect. Also make sure to check out Saint Nicholas Church, built in the 1700s, and the Triple Bridge, constructed in the mid-1800s.
Come dinnertime, there’s a wealth of restaurants and cuisines to choose from within the Old Town. Lanterns embellish many of the restaurants, casting a warm and inviting glow as you search for your favourite.
After you’ve eaten your fill, head to the city’s one rooftop bar – Neboticnik, which has a wrap-around observation deck with unparalleled city views. Ljubljana Castle is the striking focal point and you can admire the site from a new perspective as you raise a toast to a successful 24 hours in Ljubljana.
Image by Oliver Romano
Header Image by Oliver Romano
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Ljubljana, sometimes nicknamed ‘Little Prague’ or ‘The City of Dragons’, is an unsung gem. Slovenia’s capital city deserves more than just a day, but if you’re limited on time, we have the perfect guide on how to spend 24 hours in Ljubljana. Enjoy a boat cruise on the historic Ljubljanica River, learn about legends of mythical beasts and marvel at the Medieval Ljubljana Castle which watches over the city from its hilltop perch.
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