I was in Ljubljana for two days earlier this summer. One of those days was a day trip to Lake Bled. I spent one fantastic day exploring Ljubljana on my own, and included notes about that day in a trip report. Rather than repeating much of what I've already written, I'm pasting in and editing here some of my trip report about that day:
What a beautiful, lush, modern yet historic Western European city! Right under the Alps, with strong Austro-Hungarian architectural influence, it feels to me somewhat like Salzburg felt some 40 years ago (back in my youth hostel days). The river through the middle of the city is much treasured and enjoyed, with sidewalk cafes, bars, trees, benches, all along it through the center of the city. I flew there easily on a one-hour Adria Airlines direct flight from Sarajevo. (I was glad that I had opted for a window seat, as I could see the villages, fields, and approaching mountains on that clear day!) I also took RS's advice and pre-booked a GoOpti shuttle (9 euros) from the airport to the hotel which was waiting for me and took me directly to my hotel. (There were several other folks in the van but I was first drop off). Pensione Pod Lipo was quiet, clean, a ten minute walk from the river.... My one full day in Ljubljana began with the "Free Tour" in front of the Triple Bridge. There were about 20 people in my group and my guide was exuberant, articulate, funny, and passionate about Slovenia, architecture, art, history, and really helped me appreciate his city....(Edit: this tour took a couple of hours and we saw and learned about many of the sites included in the list in the earlier posting. I don't remember if I had to pre-register on-line for the tour. I don't think so. The large group that showed up was split into three groups, each with their own enthusiastic young guide.) I enjoyed shopping at the stalls of local artists and craftspeople in the covered arcade near the Triple Bridge and then cooled off and ate a great grilled fish sandwich in the fish restaurant in the lower level of that arcade (directions in RS's chapter on Ljubljana) with a table right on the breezy river. At that point, a castle sounded like a good idea, so I took the funicular up to the top of town. There are a number of museums, and castley rooms to see; I just didn't have enough time or energy to see them all, but especially enjoyed the very well done special exhibit on the mythology of dragons! Final note: dinner was pizza at a fun restaurant right on the river; don't remember the name. Just stroll, read menus, and choose one that looks cool!
