The city with an unpronounceable name
Here are the ten reasons why you will fall into temptation:
And what they say is noticeable in the vitality that is breathed in its crowded cafes by the river, without a doubt the liveliest artery of the city, in its surprising museums and art galleries, in its design shops and in the quality of its fusion cuisine.
1) FOR THE NOVELTY
Despite sharing a border with Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, l he green and alpine Slovenia is still a territory to be discovered and explored. This means, among other things, that elegant Ljbljana is not yet part of the usual European backpacker circuit. Free from crowds, even in summer , you can enjoy a daring cultural offer, a quality service and an attractive range of restaurants and design. In other words, you won't have to wait in line, you'll easily find tickets for a concert, the waiters will be happy to serve you with a smile, you won't need to book a table in the best restaurants in the city months in advance and, if you like purchases, you will leave everyone with their mouths open when you return with the least seen outfits of the West.
2) BECAUSE OF THE AFFORDABLE PRICES
It's nice to share a wonderful dinner on one of the best terraces along the Ljubljanica river, savor a good wine and do not tremble when asking for the bill . When the waiter tells you that everything is about 50 euros, you may even reconcile with the crisis (at least with yours). If you go shopping the same thing will happen to you: it is a pleasure to turn the label of the only dress you like and surprise yourself discovering that you can pay for it without having to stay in the store to do overtime. Prices in the Slovenian capital they are affordable in every way, from the drinks to the museums to the funicular and of course the beers . If you want to take a dip in culture, you're in luck, you're in Austro-Hungarian territory, remember, and you can't help but enjoy its main dishes: the Opera, the Ballet and the National Theatre. More than recommended.
3)FOR ITS AMAZING DESIGN STORES
Ljbljana's boutique shops are an irresistible attraction. Small and compact, it is ideal for shopping. The talent of its young designers is on display above all in the old part of the city. It is best to start the route from the area known as Las Tres Plazas; the Municipal Square, the Old Square and the Superior Square, a route that alternates monuments and shops. Familiarize yourself with the white opulence of its buildings and let temptation begin to unfurl its sails. Clothes, books, decorative objects, delicatessen... and a lot of cafes to discuss the latest acquisitions.
Gornji Street is a must see . Here are the daring creations of Draz, the intelligent transgression of Miro Design, a creator full of talent who is committed to drawing attention from the most classic cuts. Not far away you will find the jewel-scarves from Katarina Silk, and the colorful and original range of underwear from 69Slam, perfect to surprise. If you want to feel special you can't miss Sisi, clothing for princesses, adventurers, explorers and hopeless romantics. Ella's Room Seven collection for kids is delightful and so is her bedding.
4) FOR ITS FUN TERRACES
From the Three Bridges, the essential photo of the city, you will see with crystal clarity that the afternoons in Ljubljana promise to be long and fun. Add the good character of its people, the fact that 50,000 of its 300,000 inhabitants are university students and relies on the firm commitment to enjoying life al fresco. It is clear that the cold is not going to be a problem to alternate until well into the night on the lively banks of the river. With sun and without sun, they are the perfect getaway to meet the most beautiful and avant-garde people. If the skies of the earth get cloudy blankets and stoves come out like mushrooms so that nothing cuts the good vibes. One piece of advice: **don't miss a good cappuccino at Kavarna Union**, a beautiful period café with crystal chandeliers and delicious sweets, a tribute to the fin-de-siècle atmosphere.
5) FOR ITS ASTRO-HUNGARY ARCHITECTURE
Americans say it's like Prague but without the tourists and they are right. In fact, the architect responsible for the construction of Prague Castle was born here and his head designed many of the most emblematic buildings in the city, starting with The Three Bridges, the image that best defines Ljubljana. And yet it could also be Vienna, Budapest or any of the capitals touched by the sumptuous magic wand of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. For this reason, as a showcase city with large public spaces, the best way to experience it is lose yourself in its streets and squares, letting your appetite direct your steps.
Vienna? No, Ljubljana
6)FOR ITS NEW MUSEUM NEIGHBORHOOD
You can not miss the new district of the Museums of Ljubljana, a completely rehabilitated area that has turned out to be a success. The former military barracks that once served the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the army of the former Yugoslavia today are huge cultural spaces where peace and art reign. The latest acquisition is the Museum of Contemporary Art, perfect for reviewing the best multimedia trends in Eastern Europe. Here is the famous work of the artist Tanja Ostojic Looking for a husband with a European passport and a fantastic collection dedicated to punk philosophy and aesthetics.
7) FOR YOUR GOOD COMMUNICATIONS
Its strategic location provides many advantages. To begin with, the city's airport is a delight, the coffee is excellent, it has free wi-fi and a bus service that will connect you to the center for little money and in just a few minutes. If you want to move around Slovenia, from the capital easy access to romantic Bled lake, Kranj ski slopes , in the Slovenian Alps, or to the best hotels on the coast. If you want to continue your route around Europe from here, there are daily trains and buses that go to Croatia and Venice and numerous flights that will connect you with the main European cities.
Lake Bled, one step away
8) FOR ITS NATURAL FUSION CUISINE
Slovenian gastronomy once again benefits from its privileged geographical location. And again the mixture is the boss in the kitchen; clear Italian influence in its pastas and pizzas, Austrian meats and sauces and delicious fish and seafood that is very reminiscent of the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia . If you want to try a good goulash do it in Gujzina , one of the latest restoration acquisitions. To try the Slovenian specialties with table and tablecloth Gostilna Sestica and Pri Vodniku will satisfy your curiosity with note and to give you a sweet tribute Slascicarna, an irresistible pastry shop where they bet on the most surprising fusions.
9) FOR THE QUALITY OF ITS WINES
Slovenia has excellent quality wines and a long winemaking betrayal, which despite not having been very developed in the last century (which is why its best exponents barely leave the country), is making a strong comeback among the youngest. Ljubljana has excellent wine bars where you can taste its best creations at a good price. The trendiest is the Dvorni Wine Bar, a café during the day and a lively meeting point at night. , with a long and accessible wine list.
10)FOR ITS BICYCLE ROUTES
The area is perfect for lovers of two wheels and the city is strongly committed to this healthy and fun way of getting to know it. It has an excellent rental program, very affordable prices, and a wonderful circular walk. The Path of Memory and Camaraderie , used as a trench by the Italians during World War II, today is a perfect grove to discover giving pedals.