How to Spend 2 Days in Ljubljana

Two days in Ljubljana gives you enough time to sample Slovenian culture, explore the surrounding countryside, and visit the city’s museums. Plan ahead to maximize your time and choose tours that combine multiple destinations for the best value. Here’s how to spend two days in Ljubljana.

Day 1: Explore the Old Town

Morning: A walking or cycling tour of Ljubljana Old Town covers landmarks such as the Art Nouveau Križanke Summer Theatre, the Dragon Bridge, and Ljubljana Cathedral, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors. Afterwards, ride the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for city views—book your tickets in advance to avoid the lines.

Afternoon: Gourmands can’t miss a visit to the Central Market; a food tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Slovenian cuisine. Learn about local culinary traditions and common ingredients, taste regional cheeses and wines, and tuck into specialties such as struklji pastries or jota soup.

Night: Set sail along the Ljubljanica River on an evening sightseeing cruise, during which you’ll see the sunset from the water and enjoy unobstructed views of the Old Town. Afterwards, opt for a traditional Slovenian show and dinner, for which advance booking is recommended.

Day 2: Castles and Countryside

Morning: The mountain town of Bled is less than an hour from Ljubljana, making it possible to visit on a half-day tour. Tours generally include hotel pickup and drop-off, a cruise around Lake Bled, and free time to visit to Bled Castle, which reminiscent of a fairy tale.

Afternoon: Back in Ljubljana, head to Tivoli Park for a scenic stroll through the park, if you have time, a bike tour is a fun way to get around. Art enthusiasts might prefer to visit the National Gallery of Slovenia or the Museum of Modern Art, both at the entrance to the park.

Night: Dedicate your final night in Ljubljana to the city’s nightlife. The Old Town is home to bars, pubs, and nightclubs to suit all tastes and budgets. Join a pub crawl to drink and dance into the early hours, or opt for a beer tasting tour to discover Slovenia’s beer making heritage.