Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad)
Ways to visit Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad)
Visiting the castle grounds is free—wander the trails in the castle park and view the slopeside vineyard—but an admission ticket is required to climb the watchtower, enter the chapel, or view any of the exhibits in the history museum or the whimsical Museum of Puppetry. Not for the faint of heart, climbing the castle watchtower is a must—ascend a wrought-iron spiral staircase comprising 100 steps to enjoy 360-degree panoramas of Slovenia’s capital. Throughout the summer, the castle hosts medieval reenactments and live theater and music events.
Tour the castle attractions on your own or join a guided walking city tour to learn more about Ljubljana’s most noteworthy history.
Things to know before you go to Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad)
Ljubljana Castle is a must for medieval history buffs and all first-time visitors to the city.
If traveling with small children, be sure to visit the Museum of Puppetry.
The castle courtyard is free to visit, but it is worth the price of admission to climb the watchtower.
Most of the castle and its exhibits are accessible to wheelchairs, but the watchtower is not.
How to get to Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad)
There are several ways to reach Ljubljana Castle from Old Town, with the easiest being a funicular ride from the city center. Many guided tours include the funicular railway ride. There’s also Ljubljana’s urban tourist train, which stops at all the main tourist sights, and several walking pathways that ascend Castle Hill. Special access is available for the physically disabled.
Trip ideas
When to visit Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad)
Ljubljana Castle is open year-round, with extended operating hours during the summer. The castle is a very popular attraction, so visit early in the morning or late in the evening if you want to avoid crowds. The castle tower and grounds offer incredible sunset views of Ljubljana.
Ljubljana Castle Events
Not only is the Ljubljana Castle a key historic landmark in town, but it is also a center for cultural events and festivals. During the summer months, the castle courtyard hosts numerous live music and theater events, as well as an outdoor film series shown under the stars.
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- Ljubljana Town Hall (Magistrat)
- Ljubljana Castle Funicular
- Ljubljana Cathedral (Church of St. Nicholas)
- Cobblers' Bridge (Cevljarski Most)
- Ljubljanica River
- Ljubljana Old Town
- Butchers' Bridge (Mesarski Most)
- Preseren Square (Presernov Trg)
- Triple Bridge (Tromostovje)
- National and University Library of Slovenia (Arodna in Univerzitetna Knjiznica)
- Congress Square (Kongresni Trg)
- Museum of Illusions
- Krizanke Summer Theatre (Poletno Gledalisce Krizanke)
- Dragon Bridge
- Cankar Centre (Cankarjev Dom)