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Ljubljana in winter: A Local’s Guide to the Best Activities and Things to See
Ljubljana is a charming city any time of year but in winter it’s full of festive cheer, and there’s always something to do. The Christmas market is a must-see, as is the lovely architecture of Joze Plecnik.
I studied and lived in Ljubljana for quite some years, and December is one of my favorite months in the city. The Christmas markets attract a lively crowd and the winter chill gives you the perfect excuse to warm up with some mulled wine.
If you’re looking for an exciting European city break this winter, be sure to add Ljubljana to your list!
Book your Ljubljana winter essentials
Ljubljana Tourist Card
Castle & funicular tickets
Walking tour
Lake Bled day trip
Postojna Cave day trip
Why visit Ljubljana in winter?
Ljubljana is an incredibly charming city that comes alive in winter. The city is decorated with beautiful Christmas lights and the Christmas markets attract a lively crowd.
This time of year you can browse the galleries and museums when you need to warm up, or you can or take a day trip to Lake Bled and Postojna Cave sans the crowds.
Where to stay in Ljubljana in winter
Ljubljana has a small and walkable city center so this is where you’ll want to base yourself. In winter the prices are lower so you’ll get to enjoy the premium accommodation at a great price. If you’re traveling by car make sure your accommodation offers parking options.
DELICIOUS BREAKFAST
Stylish interior, central location and a breakfast spread to die for.
CENTRAL AND LUXURIOUS
A refurbished old house turned into a beautiful boutique hotel with a spa.
AFFORDABLE & CENTRAL
My go-to when in Ljubljana. Comfortable rooms and a parking garage just off the main square.
What to pack for Ljubljana in winter?
Winter in Slovenia is coldest in December and January, but February and March can get some really pleasant and sunny days so what you need to pack will vary on the month.
Make sure to pack some good quality waterproof boots, warm socks, a (preferably long) winter coat, a compact umbrella, gloves, scarf and hat, warm layers, but also sunglasses and sunscreen as the winter sun can be especially sneaky.
Best things to do in Ljubljana in winter
Visit Ljubljana Castle
Ljubljana Castle is a medieval castle that sits atop a hill in the center of the city and offers breathtaking views over a city covered in Christmas lights. You can walk up and visit the castle atrium and parts of the walls free of charge. But you’ll need tickets to visit the exhibitions and for the funicular.
There’s also a cafe in the atrium, an incredibly good restaurant with a terrace on top the castle walls, and a wine bar with tremendous views in the lower floors of the walls.
Wrap up and do a Ljubljana walking tour
Ljubljana is a very pedestrian-friendly city and the best way to see it is by foot. You can join this amazing walking tour for the ultimate experience. If you choose to explore on your own, be sure to visit some of the main sights such as Preseren Square, Triple Bridge, Dragon Bridge and the old city.
Take a Stroll Through Tivoli Park
Tivoli Park is the largest park in Ljubljana and is a great place to take a stroll, even on a winter day. The park is home to a variety of trees and plants, as well as a number of sculptures and galleries. If you wish, you can make your way up to Roznik hill from Tivoli Park.
Browse the Central Market
The Central Market is located in Ljubljana’s Old Town and is one of the best places to find souvenirs and gifts, as well as fresh produce meat and fish. The market is home to a variety of stalls selling everything from Slovenian honey to hand-painted pottery. There are also several cafes and restaurants located within the market.
Visit the National Gallery
The National Gallery is one of the most popular museums in Ljubljana and houses a collection of Slovenian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. The gallery is located in a beautiful Neo-Renaissance building next to the park and also contains a cafe and shop.
Hit the slopes
Ljubljana is located just a short drive from some of Slovenia’s best ski resorts, making it an ideal place to stay if you’re looking to hit the slopes. Some of the most popular ski resorts near Ljubljana include Krvavec, Kranjska Gora, and Vogel.
Do a day trip to Lake Bled
Lake Bled is one of the most popular day trips from Ljubljana and for good reason. The lake is absolutely stunning, especially in winter when it’s covered in a layer of snow.
Take a boat ride to the island in the center of the lake or go for a walk around the lake. There is also a castle located on the shores of the lake, which is well worth a visit. For more ideas on what to do in Lake Bled in winter check out this article.
Read next:
One day in Lake Bled
Lake Bled in Winter
Where to stay in Lake Bled
Explore Postojna Cave in winter
Postojna Cave is another popular day trip from Ljubljana. The cave is located about an hour from the city and is one of the largest caves in Europe. The visit starts with a train ride through the cave, then you get to explore it on foot. By booking this tour you’ll get to visit Postojna Cave as well as the gorgeous Predjama Castle.
Visit Predjama Castle
Predjama Castle is a medieval castle located in a cave just outside of Postojna. The castle is partially dug into the rocks and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can also explore the caves beneath the castle which were used as safety passages. This tour will let you visit both, the Predjama castle and Postojna caves.
Winter wonderland in Velika Planina
Velika Planina (Big Plateau) is a fairytale-like pasture in Slovenia’s Kamnik-Savinja Alps and it looks a lot like a scene out of The Sound of Music, just better and prettier! The plateau is dotted with traditional wooden shepherd’s houses scattered among the pastures and boasts a breathtaking backdrop of mountain peaks, courtesy of the Alps. In winter Velika Planina is covered with a thick blanket of snow and it turns into a proper winter fairytale.
Read next: An Alpine dream at Velika Planina
Ljubljana Christmas Market
The Ljubljana Christmas Market is one of the highlights of winter in the city. The market is located in the center of town and sells a variety of traditional Christmas gifts and decorations. There are also a number of stalls selling food and drink, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or warm up with mulled wine, a winter favorite in Slovenia. Make sure to try the blueberry and honey schnapps too.
See the Christmas lights
One of the most popular events in Ljubljana during winter is the lighting of the Christmas lights. The event takes place in the beginning of December and sees the city’s center lit up with a dazzling display of lights. The event is free to attend and is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.
Take a boat ride on Ljubljanica river
Ljubljanica river runs through the center of Ljubljana and is a great place to take a boat ride, especially in winter when the city is decorated with Christmas lights. There are a number of boat companies that offer rides on the river, which usually last around 30 minutes. Make sure to wrap up and keep warm.
Try the local cuisine
Be sure to try some of the local food while you’re in town, you won’t be disappointed. Some of the most popular dishes include jota (a soup made with sauerkraut), struklji (dumplings filled with cottage cheese) and potica, a traditional Slovenian cake.
Join this food tour to find some of the best bites in Ljubljana or learn to prepare traitional Slovene dishes on this cooking class.
Do a day trip to the coast
The Slovenian coast is only a short drive from Ljubljana and offers a great selection of beaches, restaurants and bars, as well as a chance for some winter sun. Piran is a charming town you absolutely must visit but Koper is my personal favorite. Make sure to check out the hinterlands too and do some wine tasting. You can do this as a self-drive trip bit for a no-fuss experience I recommend you book this tour to Piran and Portoroz.
Read next:
Your guide to the Slovene coast
Your guide to Piran
Your guide to Koper
Visit a spa
There are a number of spas located near Ljubljana, perfect for a winter getaway. The spas offer a variety of treatments and therapies, as well as thermal pools. A visit to a spa is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring the city.
Warm up with mulled wine
Mulled wine is somewhat a tradition in Slovene winter. You’ll find it in every bar and it’s the perfect excuse to check out the Christmas markets too. Made from local wine, this drink will warm you up from the inside out.
Make your inner child happy and go sledding
The surrounding hills are perfect for sledging, doing snow angels and making children of any age happy! You can rent sledges at most hotels and sports centres in town for a day of silliness and fun.
Explore Triglav National Park
Ljubljana is just a short drive from Triglav National Park which is home to some of the pretties waterfalls, charming gorges and breathtaking valleys. Consider visiting Pericnik waterfall, Tamar valley, Lake Jasna or the Ice Kingdom in Mojstrana. You can easily visit them on a self-drive day trip or you can join one of the guided tours.
Read next:
Best hikes in TNP
Camping in TNP
Your guide to Lake Jasna
Your guide to Zelenci Nature reserve
Do a winter hike in Triglav National Park
Triglav National Park offers some wonderful hikes and breath taking views. A lot can be explored on short walkes and even by car, but the real deal and the best views require some sweat and proper hiking. However hiking in winter comes with it’s own challenges. There is a risk of avalanche and paths are often hidden under the fresh snow so a mountain guide is recommended.
Try Ski Touring in the Julian Alps
They say the road is never crowded when you go the extra mile. Same goes for ski slopes. If you wanna hit the powder and ditch the crowds, then you should try ski touring! Granted, hiking up the hill with your touring skis on is no easy feat but it’s so worth it when you get to do the first lines down the hill on your descent.
Plecnik architecture in Ljubljana
Ljubljana is known as the city of Plecnik, which refers to the famous architect Joze Plecnik who left his mark on the city with his unique style. You can see his work all around town, most notably at National and University Library, Krizanke Monastery, the Franciscan Church and the many bridges across Ljubljanica River.
Ice skating at Hala Tivoli
Hala Tivoli is a large indoor arena located just outside the city center. During winter, the arena transforms into an ice skating rink that is open to the public. It’s a great activity for both children and adults and it’s also a great way to meet locals.
Hike Smarna Gora
Smarna Gora is a small mountain located just outside Ljubljana. The hike to the top is relatively easy and takes about an hour. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Adriatic Sea from the top. At the top there is a mountain hut serving hot drinks and local food.
Party the night away
Ljubljana has a lively nightlife scene with something for everyone. From hipster bars to rowdy nightclubs, you’ll find it all in Ljubljana. My favorites are K4 and Metelkova Mesto.
What to Pack for Ljubljana in Winter
If you’re visiting Ljubljana in winter, there are a few things you should make sure to pack. First and foremost, you’ll need warm clothes as the city can get quite cold, especially at night. A coat, scarf, and hat are essential, as is a good pair of boots.
You should also pack a bathing suit if you’re planning on visiting any of the thermal baths in the area. And finally, don’t forget your camera as there will be plenty of photo opportunities.
Tips for visiting Ljubljana in winter
- Ljubljana is a small city, so it’s easy to get around on foot. However, if you’re planning on doing a lot of walking, be sure to wear comfortable waterproof shoes and dress warmly.
- Many of the city’s attractions are located in or near the Old Town, so it’s a good idea to stay in this area.
- Ljubljana is an incredibly safe city, so you don’t need to worry about walking around alone at night.
- Winter is the best time to try Slovenian food. Some of the most popular dishes include potica (a type of Slovenian cake), idrijski žlikrofi (potato dumplings), and jota (a hearty soup).
When is winter in Ljubljana?
Winter in Ljubljana typically runs from December to February. However, the weather can vary depending on the year. In some years, winter may start as early as November and last until March.
Does it snow in Ljubljana?
Ljubljana does get snow in winter. Due to the traffic the snow tends to melt quicker in certain areas so make sure to pack some waterproof shoes.
How to get to Ljubljana
Ljubljana is located in central Slovenia and is easily accessible by plane, train, bus, or car. The city’s main airport is located just outside of the city center and offers direct flights to a number of European cities. Ljubljana can also be reached by train from many major European cities, including Vienna, Budapest, and Zagreb.
If you’re coming from elsewhere in Slovenia, there are a number of bus companies that offer service to Ljubljana.
The best way to get around Ljubljana
Ljubljana is a small city, so the best way to get around is on foot. Ljubljana also has an extensive bus network that covers the entire city and there are bike rental options as well. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly.