Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Slovenia / Ljubljana
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| | | Lively and lovely |  | Why go on holiday to Ljubljana?
The Slovenian capital is both lively and lovely. Its Old Town - with its medieval buildings - rivals Prague's but this university town is far from being dusty as its large student population keeps it swinging.
Set on an attractive river, it's a great place to chill out and indulge in some surprisingly tasty cuisine.
Low-cost flights and city packages have opened Ljubljana up as a very affordable short-break destination. Or use it as a jumping off point to explore the other delights of Slovenia, from stunning Alpine lakes and winter skiing, to Mediterranean-style beach resorts like Portoroz in spring and summer.
How much will it cost?
A four day, three-night, city break including flights and hotel starts from £216 per person with flights only from £135 per person.
When should I go?
Summer temperatures average 20C (68F) when the pavement cafes and tourist sites are busy but atmospheric. Spring and early autumn are great if you want a bit more elbow room.
Who's it for?
Everyone. Ljubljana appeals to the more mature holidaymaker out of peak season with its walkable Old Town, parks and gardens and cafes, and its huge colourful open air market in the city centre to browse in.
It's also a great place for couples - with romantic strolls or boat trips along the willow-strewn riverbanks and some gorgeous old town restaurants with food to match and plenty of lively bars in summer.
A huge new Water Park also opened in 2006. It's divided into four sections including Sauna Land with steam baths in an underground cave, and there's also a thermal spa section with massage beds. Another section is strictly for children.
What are the must-sees?
Stroll the Old Town with its fantastic medieval buildings, walk across picturesque Dragon Bridge, Cobbler's Bridge and the famous Triple Bridge. Hike up to the castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city and dating from the ninth century.
Lovely old squares include Preseren, named after a famous Slovene poet. Check out the beautiful Art Nouveau façade of the Centromerkur department store before you start shopping. Chill out in the embankment cafes and soak up the views. Hunt for bargains at the Sunday flea market. Ljubljana is a cultured capital – take your pick from the National Gallery, Museum of Modern Art or a night out at the theatre, opera or a classical concert.
The great thing about Slovenia is its compact size. In just over an hour you could be lapping up the lush beauty of Lake Bled, 54kms from the capital, or taking an electric train ride through the illuminated caverns of Postojna Caves, the world's second largest cave system, just 53kms away.
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| | | Money matters | | What will I spend?
It's as cheap as chips compared with other European capitals. An expresso will set you back a whopping 70 cents (50p), a medium size pizza or portion of pasta is from 3.80 euros (£2.54) and a two-course restaurant meal for two is from 15 euros (£10).
Any special events?
The Ljubljana Summer Festival is a major event in the city's calendar. The seven week festival, in July and August, attracts top performers from Slovenia and around the world. It provides a dazzling display of opera, ballet, theatre, music ranging from jazz to classical, and art. It's staged at various venues around the city including the open air theatre of Krizanke and Ljubljana Castle.
In early July, jazz nuts can get together at one of the oldest jazz festivals in Europe. For movie buffs, there's a film festival in November.
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| | Fact File : Ljubljana |
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| | | Ljubljana | | Did you know?
According to legend, Ljubljana was founded by mythical Greek prince Jason (and his Argonauts) who slew the dragon guarding the river on which it stands. The city's symbol is now a dragon.
Language
Slovene.
Visas
Not required for UK passport holders.
Getting there
There are direct flights from London to Ljubljana.
Flying time from London
Two hours.
Getting around
The city centre is easily walkable but there's also a cheap and user-friendly bus system.
Currency
The tolar (SIT) though you may also see prices displayed in euros.
Costs
It's as cheap as chips compared with other European capitals. An expresso will set you back a whopping 70 cents (50p), a medium size pizza or portion of pasta is from 3.80 euros (£2.50) and a two-course restaurant meal for two is from 15 euros (£10).
Weather
Ljubljana's climate is influenced by both the cool alpine air and the warm Adriatic sea. Winters are cold and mid-summer temperatures are around 20C (68F).
Time Difference
One hour ahead of GMT.
International dialling codes from the UK
00 386.
Voltage
220v.
Opening hours
Shops usually open from 7.30 or 8am to 7pm on weekdays and until lunchtime on Saturdays. Main post offices open 7am to 8pm weekdays and until lunchtime Saturday. Banks open 8am to 4.30 or 5pm weekdays and until lunchtime Saturdays but may close for lunch.
Health – Before you go
Foreign visitors qualify for free emergency medical treatment but make sure you have adequate travel insurance.
Health – When you are there
No major health problems in Slovenia.
Warnings
No specific problems. Theft is the biggest crime so take the usual precautions to safeguard your possessions. Be aware there are heavy on the spot fines for traffic offences and for jaywalking.
Emergency
British Embassy: Trg Republike 3/IV, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia, Tel: +386 61 125-7191 - Fax: +386 61 125-0174, Police 113, Fire / Ambulance 112.
Customs
The equivalent of the English pub is the gostilna, traditionally an inn where travellers rested overnight. It's still at the heart of Slovenian life and the place where you're most likely to get traditional food. An old Slovenian proverb states: "Life without holidays is like a long road without a gostilna".
Pets
Slovenia is not included in the Pet Travel Scheme so taking your dogs or cats on holiday there is not an option at present.
Tipping
If it's not included, add 10% to the bill.
Tourist Office
2 Canfield Place, GB-London NW6 3 BT, England, Tel +44 171 372-3767, Fax: +44 171 372-3763 -
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| | Available rental properties in Ljubljana |
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| |  | | New Domacija house Ljubljana
Apartment Antonia in a new built two apartments house. A quiet neighbourhood of Ljubljana with very high comfort.
|  | | apartment for up to 4 in the centre of Ljubljana
apartment is located in the center of ljubljana, on a picturesque street with little traffic. most of ljubljana main atractions are just a short walk
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1 bedroom self catering appartement in villa, own atrium, in Ljubljana suborb, 10 km from centre of Ljubljana, very attractive and quiet area
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2 bedroom appartement in 10th floor, close to the centre of Ljubljana, beautifull view on the city and to the mountain, climatisated
|  | | APARTMENT LJUBLJANA MANDI **
This homey bright holiday rental in Ljubljana is situated about 1,5 km from the center, famous Presernov Square, Triple bridges and Town Hall Rotovz
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Holiday Rentals in Ljubljana |
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