Ljubljana

Maps Events Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels
Ljubljana
October - November 2014
E S S E N TI A L
C I TY G U I D E S
Gourmet
Explore the finest cuisine
Slovenia has to offer
Health Spas
Reinvigoration personified
with Slovenias health spas
FREE COPY
Issue N38
inyourpocket.com
Argentino / martinska 152 (BTC) / 1000 Ljubljana / Slovenija
Typical style of an Argentinian hacienda. Always fresh meat, best quality beef from Argentina. Indulge yourself with our grilled
specialities. Old Argentinian recipes, on typical grills imported from Argentina. Wine Cellar with over 130 Argentinian Wines
www.argentino.si / mobile: +386 31 600 900
Contents
E S S E N TI A L
C I TY G U I D E S
City Basics 7
The immediate need-to-knows
Arrival & Transport 8

Planes, trains, buses, taxis and transfers
Culture & Events

Live Music Listings
Cultural centres and venues
12
12
18
Gourmet 20
Explore Slovenias culinary world
Restaurants 34
Everything from A to V(egetarian)
Cafs 52
Enjoy one of Ljubljanas favourite pastimes
Nightlife 55
Dance and drink the night away
Sightseeing 58
Bridges, museums and the castle
Shopping 66
Where to go and what to buy
The idyllic Ljubljanica lazily drifts through the centre of town
Hotels 70
Business suites to hostel bunks
Embassies & Expats 76

A special feature for foreign residents
Postojna 79
Home of the world famous cave
Brdo Pri Kranju 82

The domain of delights
Slovenian Spas 84
The ultimate relaxation
Directory
87
Maps & Index
Dubrovnik and Neretva County Tourist Board

www.visitdubrovnik.hr
City map
88
City centre map
90
Ljubljanas graceful city hall
facebook.com/ljubljana.inyourpocket
Foreword
City Basics
Summer is done here in Ljubljana, and whilst well still

try to wring the final drops of excellent weather out it is
fair to say that the action will begin to move inside as we
prepare for another winter. This isnt to say that the fun,
games and excitement are over however! October and
November will see a glut of festivals, events and goings
on, enough to keep our calendars full of excitement.
Our second annual gourmet feature is included within,
where we take another look at the wonderful cuisine on
offer throughout the regions of Slovenia. The venerable
Uro Mencinger was kind enough to help us out on the
feature, and whilst it is by no means a comprehensive
guide it should be more than enough to provide a concise introduction to all things edible in the country. The
length and breadth of Slovenia is covered, from the coast
to the Alps to the east to the south and everything in
between.
The autumn months also see a plethora of excellent gigs
coming to town, many of which have us practically salivating in anticipation of. Synthpop heroes Future Islands
are the next on our list, to be followed by the always
exciting Liars and US riff-monsters Helmet later in the
month. We were once told that there wasnt a riff worth
writing that Helmet hadnt already written, and were inclined to agree.
We have all the sights, sounds and tastes of the country
covered, as well as moving our spa feature from thermal
to the health variety. We hope weve provided more than
enough to make your stay in Ljubljana as fulfilling as possible, and of course anything that didnt make it into the
physical guide can be found by heading to our website.
As usual, we welcome and encourage any and all feedback through the usual routes, be that Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram, Foursquare, Email, handwritten love letters or
messages in bottles drifting down the Ljubljanica.
Temperature, C
Publisher
E S S E N TI A L
Ljubljana In Your Pocket
C I TY G U I D E S
Drenikova 33, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Tel. +386 30 316 602/+386 (0)30 31 66 07
ljubljana@inyourpocket.com, www.inyourpocket.com
Director Niko Slavnic M.Sc., niko.slavnic@inyourpocket.com
ISSN 1855-3486
IQBATOR d.o.o.
Printed Evrografis d.o.o.
Published Published six times per year
Editorial
Editor John Bills
Writer John Bills, Will Dunn, Craig Turp, Richard Schofield,
James Cosier, Yuri Barron
Design Vaida Gudynait
Consulting Craig Turp
Photography Ljubljana tourism, Dunja Wedam, Tadej Mulej,
Ura Culiberg, Branka Jovanovi, John Bills.
Cover photo Tomo Jesenicnik / Shutterstock
Sales & Circulation
Sales & Operations Management
Irena Jamnikar, Karmen Hribar, Stanka Parkelj Rozina
Copyright notice
Text and photos copyright IQBATOR d.o.o. Maps copyright
cartographer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication
may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for
the purpose of review, without written permission from the
publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket
is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket (Bernardin 9-4,
Vilnius, Lithuania, tel. (+370) 5 212 29 76).
ESTONIA
RUSSIA
LITHUANIA
NORTHERN
IRELAND
IRELAND
BELARUS
NETHERLANDS
BELGIUM
POLAND
UKRAINE
GERMANY
CZECH
REPUBLIC
AUSTRIA
SWITZERLAND
ITALY
HUNGARY
SLOVENIACROATIA
BOSNIA SERBIA
MONTENEGRO
ROMANIA
GEORGIA
BULGARIA
FYR MACEDONIA
ALBANIA
GREECE
DUTCH
CARIBBEAN
SOUTH
AFRICA
6 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Rainfall, mm
30
150
20
120
10
90
0
-10
-20
F M A M J
S O N D
We have come a long way in the 22

years since we published the first In
Your Pocket guide - to Vilnius in Lithuania - so much so that we are today the
largest publisher of locally-produced
city guides in the world. The publication earlier this year of guides to Johannesburg and to the islands of the
Dutch Caribbean - our first guides in
the Southern Hemisphere - has taken
the number of guides published each
year by In Your Pocket to well over five
million, spread across more than 100
cities on three continents. And there is
more to come: make sure you keep up
with all thats new at In Your Pocket by
liking us on Facebook (facebook.com/
inyourpocket) or following us on Twitter
(twitter.com/inyourpocket).
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
B Outside seating
H Conference facilities
T Child-friendly
U Facilities for the disabled
F Fitness centre
L Guarded parking
R LAN connection 6 Pet-friendly

K Restaurant
J Old town location
30
D Sauna
C Swimming pool
I Fireplace
W Wifi
Crime and safety

Ljubljana is one of the safest capital cities in the world,
with the only prevalent crime being bicycle theft, which is
unlikely to affect short term visitors. Nowhere in the city is
unsafe to walk at at any hour, although if youre by yourself
its probably best to avoid certain parts of Tivoli Park in the
middle of the night. The only real threat to safety in the city
comes from out-of-control cyclists and negligent drivers
not paying attention to pedestrians. Perhaps a secondary
menace are slow-to-react automatic doors that seem to be
installed in shops across Ljubljana - causing hurried consumers much grief and the rare minor injury.
Drinking
Alcohol is only sold to people over 18, and sadly after 21:00
it cannot be bought in stores.
Slovenia adopted the euro in January 2007. Euro coins come

in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, 1 and 2 eu-
basic data
Population
Slovenia 2,048,951 (2011 estimate)
Ljubljana 280,140 (2011 estimate)
Area
20,273 square kilometres
Ethnic composition
Slovenian 83%, Former Yugoslav minorities 5.3%, Hungarian, Albanian, Roma, Italian and others 11.7%
Official languages
Slovenian, Italian, Hungarian
Local time
Central European (GMT + 1hr)
Longest river
Sava (221km in Slovenia)
Highest mountain
Triglav 2,864m.
Borders
Austria 318km, Italy 280km, Hungary 102km, Croatia
670km
P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted
60
Money
Maps
Monolit d.o.o.
About IYP
LATVIA
SYMBOL key
Climate
ros, while banknotes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500
euros. The Slovenian side of the euro coins are decorated
with among other things storks, Mount Triglav, Lippizaner
horses, a man sowing stars and a Joe Plenik design.
Smoking
Cigarettes cant be sold to people under 18. Slovenia recently banned smoking from public indoor spaces except
in special smoking areas in offices, hotels and bars.
Toilets
Clean and pleasant public toilets can be found at Dragon
Bridge (07:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun), in the Plenik Passageway west of Zvezda Park (07:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun) and at
Triple Bridge (07:00 - 21:00).
Exchange rates
1 EUR = 0.79 UK = 1.29 US $ = 1.20 CHF = 7.89
CNY = 139 = 118 = 49 (22 September 2014)
Market Values
Compared to the rest of Western and Central Europe, prices in Slovenia are still fairly competitive despite noticeable
increases since the introduction of the Euro in 2007. Here
are some typical everyday products and prices:

Product
Price
McDonalds Big Mac
2.40
Slice of pizza
1.80
Slice of burek
2.00
Cup of coffee
1.10
Bottle of name brand vodka
12.50
Decent bottle of local wine
3.50
Bottle of local beer in a shop
1.10
Pint of beer in a pub
2.70
Pack of cigarettes
3.20
Single bus ride
1.20
Movie ticket
4.90
Litre of petrol
1.49
Taxi ride across town
5.00
Best Airport Transport 2014

In the latest in our series of Best of Ljubljana polls, we
set out to find the best transport options for getting
to and from Joe Punik airport, just 26km outside
of the city centre. The contenders were compiled by
our editorial team in three categories, each with a
real plethora of options. If you ever wondered who
were the best airport shuffle, the best car rental service or the best taxi company in Ljubljana, wonder
no more. The people have spoken, and the results
are in.
Best Airport Shuttle
Arriving & Getting Around

Best Car Rental
We recently had the pleasure of chatting to Marko

from GoOpti, winners of our Best Airport Shuttle
Transfer poll for 2014. The full interview can be
read at our website
Avant
Winners of our Best Car
Rental poll for 2014,
Avant offer vehicles of
all shapes and sizes,
with something to fit
the needs of any prospective driver. Only
the most respected and
renowned international
manufacturers make
up their regularly renewed fleet, and they have an outstanding history and
reputation for quality and service. Deserved winners
of our vote, to say the least.QL-1, Dunajska 140, tel.
+386 (0)1 589 08 50, avantcarl@avantcar.si, www.
nationalcar-slovenia.com. Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat,
Sun 08:00 - 14:00. Airport office tel. (04) 589 08 68,
open 08:00 - 22:00.
Best Taxi
GoOpti
This new low cost airport shuttle service offers transfers to and from airports in neighbouring countries.
Departures can be booked between Ljubljana to nearly
20 airports in the region, including Venice, Munich and
Vienna, using GoOptis novel online booking system.
Rates begin at as little as 9 per person.Qtel. +386 (0)1
320 45 30, info@goopti.com, www.goopti.com.
01-320-45-30
GoOpti.com
Low cost shuttle to Slovenia
Venice
from
Ljubljana 14
Interview
First things first, congratulations from everyone

here at Slovenia In Your Pocket on winning our Best
Airport Shuttle poll with a whopping 49.08%.
Thank you. Yes, our team of 93 drivers and 26 people
in 4 offices in Ljubljana, Maribor, Portoro and Zagreb
work daily to make sure our passengers are transported safely and on time from their starting point to their
final destination. We are happy our clients see the effort and rewarded us with such percentage!
Maybe we could start by getting to know the history of GoOpti?
At the beginning in 2008 we could see there was a
huge demand for a long distance shuttle connecting
airports further away. We wanted to do it right, where
the service could be booked online and we could
guarantee a quality service. We spent three years
creating and perfecting the concept and the smart
engine for low cost pricing, and then we launched
GoOpti in 2011 with just one van. But the long preparations were worth it! We were growing with one
van per month and introducing new routes every 3
months. Now we have over 50 vehicles!
Are there any future plans to expand out to more
countries, or even more airports and towns within the countries you currently service?
We are currently opening new routes to spas and other major tourist destinations. From the beginning of
2015 the plan is to open new routes in Italy and Croatia. Towards the end of 2015 or beginning of 2016 our
plan is to grow into Austria, East Germany and Poland.
Metro Taxi
Proud winners of our Best
Taxi Service poll for 2014,
Metro Taxi are widely regarded as the cheapest
taxi in town. This doesnt
necessarily mean they are
lacking in quality however, with an efficient call
centre as well as some
of the most interesting
taxi drivers the city has to offer. Good service, cheap
rides and good conversation. What more does one
want from a taxi?QM-3/4, Litijska 16, tel. +386 (0)80
11 90/+386 (0)4 124 02 00, taxi@metroprevozi.net,
www.metroprevozi.net/TaxiPrevozi.htm.
Do you get to travel much yourself, or even see

more of Slovenia? What are your favourite tourist
spots in the region?
I have two sons, one is two years old and the other is
just five months, so unfortunately life right now is just
work and family. Hopefully soon we can start travelling again, as a family. We live in the centre of Ljubljana and I love it. Everyday we meet with our friends in
bars like Prulek, Tozd, Jazz club Gajo or we visit Tivoli
park, the castle or just stroll around. We like to go to
swim in Izola in the summer and Gozd Martuljek to
ski in the winter.
Thanks for your time, and congratulations once
more on your In Your Pocket poll success!
For the complete interview, head to our website.
Congratulations Marko and the GoOpti team!
Arriving in Ljubljana
A Word From Our Mayor
Arriving by plane
Ljubljanas cosy little Joe Punik Airport is 26km northwest of the city, near Brnik. Getting there takes about
30 minutes by taxi (35-45) or shuttle (5-8, schedule
is coordinated with flights) and roughly twice as long
by bus (4.10, up to 16 per day between 05:00-20:00).
Check the airports website for a complete schedule.
Ljubljana Airport (Letalie Joeta
Punika)QZgornji Brnik 130a, tel. +386 (0)4 20
610 00, fax +386 (0)4 20 212 20, info@lju-airport.si,
www.lju-airport.si. Open 00:00 - 24:00.
For me, Ljubljana is the

most beautiful city in
the the world unique
for its special position
in the heart of Slovenia.
As a city with rich history
and cultural heritage,
it attracts ever more
visitors every year from
near and far. The most
important ambassadors
for Ljubljana are undoubtedly our residents, who live the intercultural dialogue and with their openness, kindness, and
hospitality always ensure a touch of comfort and warmth.
Arriving by train
Once youve worked out the tunnel and stair system and
made it to the main train station building, find everything
you need including an ATM and press stand selling top-up
cards (but alas no SIM cards) for prepaid SIM accounts. Left
luggage is provided courtesy of 80 coin-operated lockers with instructions in English on platform N1, with the
toilets conveniently located next door. Getting to town
depends as always on where youre planning to stay and
how fit you are. Many central hotels are within reasonable
walking distance. Alternatively, find taxis outside, and make
sure the meter is running before you depart.
Train Station (eleznika Postaja)QE-1,
Trg Osvobodilne Fronte, tel. +386 (0)1291 33 32, www.
slo-zeleznice.si. Open 05:00 - 22:00.
Arriving by bus
All national and international buses arrive at the central
bus station which is located directly in front of the main
train station. The temporary prefabricated station building features little in the way of facilities for recent arrivals,
making a trip to the train station almost compulsory. Perhaps the only one of its kind in the world, the bus station
does however contain a Sixt car rental kiosk, with the
only other useful facility being a small internet caf for
which tickets can be acquired from ticket window N1.
Getting to town is the same as described above.
Ljubljana Bus Station (Avtobusno
Postajalie)QD/E-1, Trg Osvobodilne Fronte
4, tel. +386 (0)1 234 46 00, avtobusna.postaja@
ap-ljubljana.si, www.ap-ljubljana.si. Open 05:00 22:30, Sat 05:00 - 22:00, Sun 05:30 - 22:30.
Arriving by car
Driving to Ljubljana is a joy due to the good roads and
excellent signposting. The city is circled by a ring road
from where its easy to get to the centre. Simply follow
the parking signs for convenient places to leave your
car near the city centre. Once in the city, its best to walk
the short distances rather than drive through the heavy
traffic and narrow street. Also, if youre staying in Old
Ljubljana be aware that it is largely a pedestrian only
zone.
Welcome to Ljubljana!

Zoran Jankovi
Mayor
Public Transport
Although most of Ljubljanas sights are within easy walking distance for even the most unfit and/or laziest of people
(and you can trust us as were proud card carrying members
of both groups), there is a far-reaching and fairly efficient bus
network for reaching attractions farther afield, such as the Zoo,
BTC shopping centre or even distant marna Gora, or for those
interested in seeing what the city looks like outside the city
centre. Although you may be lucky enough to see some Titoera antiques plying the roads, the entire fleet is currently being
Urbana Card
The city bus operator, LPP, has
finally introduced the longawaited Urbana Card, a form
of electronic ticketing that
will eventually replace the
previous hodge-podge system of payment that included
tokens, coins and photo ID
cards. The credit card-sized
smart card is similar to those already used in other
cities, such as Londons Oyster Card and Paris Navigo
Pass. The cards can be purchased for a one-time fee
of 2 at many locations including various tobacconists
and news-stands, tourist offices, the central bus station and LPP offices at Bavarski Dvor and Celovka Cesta 160. Credit can be added for any amount between
1-50 at these same locations as well as some three
dozen green Urbanomati machines scattered around
town. When getting on the bus simply touch the card
to one of the green card readers at the front entrance
and 1.20 will be deducted from the card allowing 90
minutes of travel, including unlimited transfers.
modernised, so most of the time you can expect a comfortable

ride. Schedules are displayed at all stops, and fares can only be
paid using an Urbana Card or a Slovene mobile phone.
Car Rental
Europcar QK-2, Celovka 268, tel. +386 (0)59 070
500, reservations@europcar.si, www.europcar.si. Open
08:00 - 16:00. Closed Sat, Sun. Airport office tel. (04)
236 79 90, open 08:00-21:00.
Atet QJ-2, Devova 6a, tel. +386 (0)1 513 70 17, sales@atet.
si, www.atet.si. Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat, Sun 08:00 - 13:00.
Sixt QD-1, Trg Osvobodilne Fronte 5, tel. +386 (0)1
234 46 50, info@sixt.si, www.sixt.si. Open 08:00 - 18:00,
Sat 08:00 - 14:00, Sun 08:00 - 12:00.
Transfers
Na Letalie
Getting to and from the airport is always a source of consternation for many travellers. Na Letalie is here to take
that anxiety away, offering a comfortable shuttle service

to and from Ljubljana airport, as well as many others in the
area including Trieste, Venice and Vienna. Prices are fixed,
starting at 8, and discounts are on offer for larger groups.
A free bottle of water is even provided.Qtel. +386 (0)40
93 53 85, info@naletalisce.si, www.naletalisce.si.
Taxis
Ljubljanas taxis are safe, clean and generally reliable. The
starting rate is usually between 0.80-1.50 with a per kilometre rate of 0.70-1.70, depending on the company, time
of day and number of passenger. Waiting usually costs 1520 per hour. Ordering a taxi by phone will get you lower
rates for longer distance trips.
Laguna Taxi.QJ-1, Celovka 228, tel. +386 (0)31
492 299/+386 (0)1 511 23 14, fax +386 (0)1 511 23 14,
taxi.laguna@siol.net, www.taxi-laguna.com.
Taxi BrnikQtel. +386 (0)41 755 539/+386 (0)41
606 716, taxibrnik@siol.net, www.taxibrnik.com.
Taxi RondoQtel. +386 (0)70 900 900/+386 (0)31
225 588, info@taxi-rondo.si, www.taxi-rondo.si.
Parking Garages
PH Kapitelj
The garage is only 100m or so from the famous Dragon
Bridge and Trnica market. While there are only 261
spaces, you can normally find a free one.QE-3, Poljanski
nasip 4, tel. +386 (0)1 360 36 48/+386 (0)51 366 510,
phkapitelj@kranjska-id.com, www.parkiraj.si. Open
00:00 - 24:00.
PH Meksiko
A large modern facility situated adjacent to the Slovenias
main medical facilities and just down the street from the
central bus and railway stations. There are a total of 624
spaces, and the ground floor is home to a popular German
supermarket.QF-2, Njegoova 4, tel. +386 (0)1 600 40
38/+386 (0)51 366 510, phmeksiko@kranjska-id.com,
www.parkiraj.si. Open 00:00 - 24:00.
PH entpeter
Situated near the University of Ljubljana Medical
Centre at the intersection of Zaloka and Njegoeva

Streets, entpeter Parking House boasts some 500
parking spaces.QF-3, Zaloka 1, tel. +386 (0)1
430 59 02/+386 (0)5 136 65 10, phsentpeter@
kranjska-id.com, www.parkiraj.si. Open 00:00 24:00.
PH Trdinova
Only a short walk from the Ljubljana Stock Exchange,
main courthouse and various corporate head offices,
the Trdinova Parking House has near 1200 spaces.
QD-2, Trdinova 9, tel. +386 (0)1 230 96 00/+386
(0)5 136 65 10, phtrdinova@kranjska-id.com,
www.parkiraj.si. Open 00:00 - 24:00.
From 07:00-19:00 2 per hour, from 19:00-07:00
the first four hours are 1 per hour, while additional hours are 0.50. The daily rate is 32, while
monthly fees are as low as 150.
11
Culture & Events
24th Biennial of Design

Ljubljana, Slovenia
Clockwise from left to right - US riff lords Helmet, Dr John and the Nite Trippers, noisemongers Liars and synthpop chaps Future Islands hit
the Kino ika stage
Live Music in October

1 Oct - Billy Martins Wicked Knee @ Kino ika
Live Music in November
3 Oct - Cirkusz-KA @ Prulek
4 Nov - Han Bennink & Uri Caine @ Cankarjev

Dom
5 Oct - Girl Band @ Kino ika
5 Nov - Uro Bari @ Ljubljana Castle
6 Oct - Entombed A.D @ Gala Hala

7 Oct - Lula Pena @ Cankarjev Dom
6 Nov - Michael Buble @ Stoice Sports Park
9 Oct - Zavoloka & Laetitia Morais @ Kino ika
8 Nov - Dr John & The Nite Trippers @ Kino ika
10 Oct - Dillon @ Kino ika
8 Nov - Merchandise @ Channel Zero
11 Oct - Enter Shikari @ Kino ika
11 Nov - Antoine Berjeaut @ Cankarjev Dom
12 Oct - Future Islands @ Kino ika

13 Oct - Joan Baez @ Cankarjev Dom
13 Nov - Blue Subscription @ Cankarjev Dom
16 Oct - Swans @ Kino ika
16 Nov - One Republic @ Stoice Sports Park
19 Oct - Monkey3 @ Klub Gromka
18 Nov - Triggerfinger @ Cvetliarna

Mediapark
20 Oct - Liars @ Kino ika

21 Oct - Najoua @ Celica
22 Oct - Tedi Spalato @ Kavarna Slami
23 Nov - Vocal Subscription @ Slovenska

Filharmonija
23 Oct - Within Destruction @ Klub Gromka
25 Nov - Neca Falk @ Cankarjev Dom
24 Oct - Helmet @ Kino ika

28 Oct - tefan Kova Marku Banda @ Cankarjev Dom
30 Oct - Maybeshewill @ Channel Zero
27 Nov - Einsturzende Neubauten @ Kino ika

27 Nov - Orange Subscription @ Cankarjev Dom
18. 9.7. 12. 2014

www.bio.si
Culture & Events

The one-time home of the Austrian composer Gustav
Mahler, Ljubljana continues to inspire, nurture and produce a wide and eclectic mix of creative individuals and
groups. Whether its the work of the Slovenian artists
Richard Jakopi or Ivana Kobilca youre here to see, or if
you simply want to watch the latest Hollywood film, Ljubljana provides everything you need and more besides.
For more cultural information - including museums, art
galleries and churches - take a look at the Sightseeing
section of this guide. For a complete list of galleries,
theatres and much more in town, head to our website
for more information.
Festivals
02.10 Thursday - 12.10 Friday
City of Women
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2014, the beginning of October will see various venues in Ljubljana
taken over by the City of Women, an arts (everything
that comes under that bracket) festival focusing on the
position of women in art and society. Showcasing the
work of women in art, theory and activism, the 20th anniversary provides a chance to look at what has been
accomplished as well as assessing what is to come. The
theme this year is Survival Tactics, and it promises to
be a thought-provoking affair. For a full timetable of
shows, head to the official website.QVarious venues,
tel. +386 (0)1 438 15 80/+386 (0)40 81 64 47, info@
cityofwomen.org, www.cityofwomen.org.
Exhibitions in October
and November
Until 26 Oct - Aquae Lasae @ Cankarjev dom
Until 30 Oct - The Remains of a City @ Tivoli
Park
Until 1 Nov - Rabih Mrou - Retrospective
Exhibition @ City Art Gallery
Until 2 Nov - Andrej Jemec: Geometry and
Handwriting 1967 - 83 @ International Centre of
Graphic Arts
Until 31 Dec - Doors. Spatial and Symbolic
Passageways @ Slovene Ethnographic Museum
Until 31 Jan 2015 - The Magic of Amulets @
Slovene Ethnographic Museum
Until 9 Feb 2015 - The Mummy and the Crocodile
@ National Museum of Slovenia - Metelkova
Until 31 May 2015 - Emona: A City of the Empire
@ City Museum of Ljubljana
Until 15 Sep 2015 - Long Live the Evolution! @
Slovene Museum of Natural History
Until 2 Dec 2015 - Ana and Teddy: Bear in Slovenia @ Technical Museum of Slovenia
12.11 Wednesday - 23.11 Sunday

LIFFE - Ljubljana International Film Festival (Ljubljanski Mednarodni Filmski
Festival) Taking place this coming November at five
cinemas across Ljubljana (as well as one in Maribor), the
years LIFFE is sure to live up to the expectations built over
its proud 25 year history. The program is yet to be announced, but expect over 100 films from all over the world
to be shown. Stay tuned to the website for the latest developments.QCankarjev dom, liffe@cd-cc.si, www.liffe.si.
20.11 Thursday - 21.11 Friday
17th Slovenian Wine Festival
Slovenias largest wine-related event has been promoting the culture of wine drinking for over a decade, and
this years festival will be the biggest yet. Held at one of
Ljubljanas most prestigious hotels, the event brings together diverse participants and attendees from the wine
industry, media and interested consumers, and aims to
both raise awareness of wine drinking - especially among
younger people - and help facilitate business partnerships between producers, caterers and wholesalers as well
as offer new opportunities for development of the wine
business. See their website for registration information
and current list of exhibitors.QC/D-3, Hotel Union, info@
slovenskifestivalvin.si, slovenskifestivalvin.si.
Exhibitions
21.06 Saturday - 15.05 Friday
We Never Imagined Such A War
Commemorating the 100-year anniversary of the outbreak of World War One, We Never Imagined Such A War
is a thought-provoking exhibition on show at the National
Museum of Contemporary History. Pieced together from
the personal stories of both civilians and conscripts, the
terrible journey across the battlefield is brought to life by
photographs and the personal objects of those most affected. Archive footage and documentaries are also on
show, including a five-part film produced by RTV Slovenia.
Learn more about the war that saw the death of AustriaHungary and the birth of a new era for Slovenia.QNational Museum of Contemporary History, Celovka 23,
www.muzej-nz.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
18.09 Thursday - 07.12 Sunday
BIO50 (24th Ljubljana Biennial of Design)
Established in 1963, the Ljubljana Biennial of Design is one
of the longest running international design events doing
the rounds. An event can only stay relevant by keeping on
top of the most current developments, something that is
managed here with ease. Organised by the Museum of
Architecture and Design and taking a unique look at international design, 2014 sees the 50th anniversary of this
prestigious event, and a stringent selection process guarantees only the finest projects will be showcased.
Open to the public from September 18th, the six-month
working process of 11 teams will be officially unveiled,
with many events marking this opening. 100 multidisciljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Ustanoviteljica
Culture & Events
Foto: Primo Lukei. Oblikovanje: Miha Kosma
KDO SO
NAI
HEROJI?
plinary participants from 20 countries are taking part, covering a variety of fascinating themes including Walking
the City, Nanotourism and Hacking Households. After
all, 50-year anniversaries only happen once, so why not go
all out.QPot na Fuine 2, tel. +386 (0)1 548 42 83/+386
(0)31 72 34 41, bio@mao.si, www.bio.si.
Special Events
Artish A free monthly event that brings together Ljubljanas arts community and the general public for a day
of art, music, theatre and fun. Local artists and craftsmen
display and sell their work, while also leading free creative
workshops on different topics each month, organising
fun activities for children, raising money for charity and of
course discussing their art. Held the last Saturday of every
month, in autumn the event moves indoors to Kino ika.
QVarious venues, www.artish.si. Open 09:00 - 20:00.
Admission free.
Galleries
These are some of the citys more established smaller galleries - most of which have art available for purchase. For
info on larger galleries and museums please refer to the
Sightseeing section, and for many more venues head to
our website.
Aksioma Project Space
Operated by the Aksioma Institute for Contemporary Arts
- a non-profit cultural institution based in Ljubljana - the
Slovenian
Philharmonic
gallery is interested in projects that take advantage of

new technologies in order to investigate and discuss the
structures of (post)modern society. Exhibitions usually
concentrate on artistic production that explores social,
political, aesthetic and ethical concerns.QD/E-2, Komenskega 18, tel. +386 (0)590 54 360/+386 (0)590 17
010, projectspace@aksioma.org, www.aksioma.org.
Open 12:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sat, Sun.
BeArtAngel
This little gallery on Gornji trg in Ljubljanas old town is
the peaceful sanctuary of local Slovene artist Boidar A.
Koleri, who paints under the name BeArtAngel. Koleri
has spent his life exploring creativity and life energy, and
BeArtAngel represents his latest artistic endeavour. The
paintings, which are known around the world, are said
to represent unseen energies and can support people
in achieving inner peace. If it all sounds a little confusing then worry not, Koleri is on hand at the gallery
and happy to explain the meaning behind BeArtAngel
and each paintings energies. The famed Mosaics of
Intention, the work of Sebastian vanut aided by thruly unique lighting created by Jonathan Kuk, are also
available to view and purchase.QD-4, Gornji Trg 19, tel.
+386 (0)41 764 352, beartangel@gmail.com, www.
beartangel.si. Open 16:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 13:00.
Closed Mon, Sun.
Jakopi Galerija
A branch of the City Museum of Ljubljana, the Jakopi
Gallery hosts exhibitions of contemporary art and design by Slovenian and international artists. The programme of exhibitions focuses on the role of contemporary art in its local environment.QC-4, Slovenska 9,
tel. +386 (0)1 24 12 500, info@mestnimuzej.si, www.
mestnimuzej.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
Season
2014/15
Blue Orange Vocal
T 00 386 1 24 10 800
F 00 386 1 24 10 900
info@filharmonija.si
www.filharmonija.si
Conductors
(Slovenian
Philharmonic
Orchestra)
Philipp von Steinaecker

Frdric Chaslin, Tan Dun,
Ignjat Solenicin, Ari Rasilainen,
Hans Graf, Dmitrij Sitkovecki,
Keri-Lynn Wilson, Martina Bati
Conductors
(Slovenian
Chamber
Choir)
Vladimir Kranjevi, Tnu Kaljuste,

Fernando P. Mejias, Marko Vatovec,
Martina Bati
Soloists
Aleksander Markovi, Martina

Filjak (piano), Alban Gerhardt
(cello), Boris Brovcin (violin),
Miha Rogina (saxophone),
Ale Kacjan (flute), Bernarda Fink,
Monika Bohinec (mezzosoprano),
Lydia Teuscher, Maida Hundeling
(soprano), VOCES8 (vocal group)
CM
MY
CY
CMY
bUY Tickets
Eventim
Online ticket sales for more than 3,000 events per year,
including concerts, sports, and cultural events across
Slovenia and Central Europe. Check the offer of events
and buy tickets before you even arrive in Slovenia.
QB-1, Celovka 25, tel. +386 (0)14 30 24 05, info@
eventim.si, www.eventim.si/portal/en.
Tourist Information Centre
The helpful staff at Ljubljanas main tourist information centre can answer pretty much any question
you have about the city, provide you with maps
and countless other brochures, and also sell tickets
for concerts, shows and various other events.QD-3,
Adami-Lundrovo Nabreje 2, tel. +386 (0)13 06
12 15, tic@visitljubljana.si, www.visitljubljana.si.
Open October-May 08:00-19:00, June-September
08:00-21:00.
Other
events
16th Slowind Festival 2014

Confronting Silence - Music from Japan
Artistic Director Robert Aitken
1st Philharmonic Festival of Baroque
Music, Artistic Director Matej arc
Culture & Events
Culture & Events

Youth Theatre (or SMG, for short) has been active for
well over 50 years and shows no sign of slowing down.
Known for working with stage directors who arent
afraid to push boundaries and explore the avant-garde,
its current season flies under the title of Who Are Our
Heroes?, with productions exploring the concept of
heroism in the modern age.
October sees two brand new premieres hitting the theatre. The first, Nora Gregor - Skriti kontinent spomina
(Hidden Continent of Memory) looks at the life of Nora
Gregor, an actress from Goricia who would find international fame but sadly committed suicide alone in Chile.
The second premiere is entitled Heroj 1.0 (Hero 1.0), the
work of Uro Kaurin and Vito Weis and another feature
in the Who Are Our Heroes program mentioned above.
QE-1, Vilharjeva 11, tel. +386 (0)1 425 33 12, info@
mladinsko-gl.si, en.mladinsko.com. Main box office
at Trg Francoske Revolucije 5 is open Mon-Fri 12:0017:30, Sat 10:00-13:00.
Dust off those running shoes, its Ljubljana marathon time!
Kapelica Gallery
Where many galleries will claim to have their focus fixed
firmly on the future, Kapelica take this claim and run with
it. When many think of art they immediately think of paintings and wandering uninterested around one gallery after
another. Kapelica are the antithesis of this, creating interactive and thought-provoking art that challenges as much
as it invigorates. Blending together science and art (complete with their own open-use laboratory), Kapelica is just
one arm of a multi-faceted beast, so be sure to keep on
top of their output through the websiteQC-2, Kersnikova
4, tel. +386 (0)40 21 22 92, gallery@kapelica.org, www.
kapelica.org. Open 12:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
kuc Gallery
One of the cities most popular and important galleries, kuc
holds numerous culture events and exhibitions throughout
the year featuring some oft he most important people in contemporary art from throughout the region and the continent.
QD-4, Stari Trg 21, tel./fax +386 (0)1421 31 40, galerija.
skuc@guest.arnes.si, www.galerija.skuc-drustvo.si. Open
12:00 - 20:00. Closed Mon.
Theatres
Gledalie Glej
Glej Theatre is Slovenias oldest independent theatre.
Founded back in 1970, this experimental venue and
production house has been led through the decades by
young theatre creators, many of whom are Slovenias most
well known theatre practitioners today.

Glej produces and hosts research theatre projects of upand-coming directors, who can apply to through an open
call. The theatre also offers a stepping-stone to young
directors with professional working conditions, enabling
quick and effective personal artistic growth and providing
an entry point to a successful theatre career. Glejs team vision is to keep the institution a daring urban theatre, dedicated to theatrical research and promoting the new and
marginal, while offering creators a space of uncensored
freedom of creation.QC-4, Gregorieva 3, tel. +386 (0)1
251 66 79, info@glej.si, www.glej.si.
Puppet Theatre (Lutkovno Gledalie) Taking as its cue the origins of Slovenian puppet theatre in
the 15th century, this puppet theatre, founded in 1948,
provides over 500 performances annually, and is a hotbed
of creative music, design and other forms. Its responsible
for keeping scores of children entertained and amused
every week. Keep an eye out for the musical puppets that
come out of the small tower on the roof of the building
on the hour.QD/E-3, Krekov Trg 2, tel. +386 (0)1300 09
70, www.lgl.si. The box office is open Monday to Friday
from 16:00 to 18:00, Saturday from 10:00 to 12:00, and
during the hour prior to each performance.
Slovenian Youth Theatre (Slovensko
Mladinsko Gledalie) Often referred to as a
laboratory for artists to develop and create, the Slovenian
Stara Mestna Elektrarna - Elektro

Ljubjana Ljubljanas old power plant is one of the
citys finest pieces of industrial architecture. Constructed more than a century ago, this historical and architectural landmark was given a new lease on life in the
80s and 90s, when local artists turned it into a premier
cultural space. The venue continues to be a hub of the
local creative and intellectual scene hosting radical and
provocative performances, discussions and workshops,
whilst there are several festivals held at the venue
throughout the year - Ex Ponto and Mladi Levi are two
well worth checking out. If youre catching a show, or
are just a fan industrial architecture, make sure to also
visit the small museum detailing the buildings technical
heritage.QE-2, Slomskova 18, tel. +386 (0)51 269 906,
info@bunker.si, www.bunker.si.
Sports
26.10 Sunday
Ljubljana Marathon
Taking place on October 26th this year, the esteemed Ljubljana marathon will snake from Slovenska cesta all the way around town before ending
on Kongresni trg in the 19th annual version of the
event. Whilst you wont catch us running the 26mile course, almost 20,000 competitors from countries as far afield as Afghanistan, Russia, Mexico and
South Africa (as well as many closer to home) will
take part in a variety of races. For more information, head to the official website.QStanieva 41,
tel. +386 (0)1 234 80 00, vw-ljubljanskimaraton.
si.
Many more events online at

Cultural Centres
Kino ika (Urban Cultural Centre) After
nearly a year of renovation, one the citys most iconic cinemas
reopened its doors in 2009 as an urban cultural centre featuring several state-of-the-art preformance halls and exhibition
spaces. Dedicated to promoting contemporary music, theatre,
dance and experimental events, it already attracts big-name
regional and international artists, and is scheduled to hosts
around 200 events per year. Most concerts are held in its largest multi-purpose hall, dubbed the Cathedral, which can fit
over 932 people. Check out their English language website
for more info and a full schedule of events.QK-3, Trg Prekomorskih Brigad 3, tel. +386 (0)30 310 100, info@kinosiska.si,
www.kinosiska.si. PHLEB
Metelkova Mesto (Alternative Culture
Centre) Ljubljanas famous artists colony hosts a number of clubs, most of which play thrash style music to a
dreadlocked black-clad audience of all ages. Unfortunately
little of the website is in English so it would be a case of try
it and see, but what we can say for sure is that it provides
a refreshing and alternative alternative to the dance music found in most other clubs and attracts a crowd who
probably care more that youre cool as in non-judgmental
than cool as in what youre wearing and how you sip your
drink. Well worth checking-out both for itself and for the
philosophy behind the whole set-up.QF-1/2, Masarykova 24, www.metelkovamesto.org.
Concert Halls
Slovenian Philharmonic (Slovenska Filharmonija) Ljubljana has a proud history as a town
of music, and the Slovenian Philharmonic is its beating
heart and soul. This delightful building was built in 1891
on the foundations of the former state theatre, which
was destroyed by fire just four years earlier. The entire
building was renovated in 2001, the 300th anniversary of
the original philharmonic, one of the oldest institutions
of its kind in the world. The live music program features
a frequent variety of world-class performances, so be
sure to catch one if possible.QC-4, Kongresni Trg 10,
tel. +386 (0)1 241 08 00, info@filharmonija.si, www.
filharmonija.si.
Conference Venues
Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention
Centre (Gospodarsko Razstavie) GR, as
it is known in Slovene, is the largest convention centre in
Slovenia, and is the location of nearly all of Ljubljanas major conventions, fairs and trade shows. With 20 multifunctional halls and rooms it can accommodate thousands of
visitors, and also has 1,500 parking spaces within short
walking distance. For those arriving by public transport, it
is located only 300 metres from the main train and bus stations.QD-1, Dunajska 18, tel. +386 (0)13 00 26 11, luka.
zajc@gr-sejem.si, www.gr-sejem.si.
19
Gourmet
Gourmet
Interview with Uro
Mencinger
Can you tell us what Slovene cuisine means to you?
The main problem of the young Slovenian state isnt the
economic crisis, but a crisis of identity! We dont know what
we have, weve forgotten what we had and we do not
know where were going ... And this is exactly why I am so
in love with Slovenian cuisine! If we were as creative, ambitious and open to the world in other fields, then Slovenia
would truly be the Promised Land. We have a rich culinary
tradition that has been influenced by our neighbours and
also historical circumstances, and diversity is a flavour of
this small land with so much beauty.
Food, glorious food! Slovenia has it is spades. Photo by Tomo Jesenicnik / Shutterstock
Welcome to our second annual special feature focusing

on the varied cuisine on offer in Slovenia. Following on
from our first edition last year, weve meticulously put
together a feature that will do more than get you started on exploring the tastes and flavours of the country.
Not only that, but we recently held a number of polls
where our readers voted for their favourite restaurants
throughout the regions of this country, the results of
which can be found within.
Each region gets a look in, everywhere from Ljubljana
and its surroundings to Dolenjska in the south, Gorenjska in the north, tajerska and Prekmurje in the east
and Istra and Kras in the west. Expert opinions from
some of the finest restaurants in each give a little insight into what makes the cuisine of the area special
and what it means to people now and through history.
Weve also compiled a list of great restaurants in each,
providing ample choice for places to stop and enjoy a
meal (or two), many of which are participating in this
years Restaurant week that you can read about on this
very page.
We couldnt do it alone of course, and we were lucky
enough to enlist the help of arguably the most respected voice on cuisine in Slovenia, Uro Mencinger.
Mr Mencinger was kind enough to take time out of his
busy schedule have a quick chat with us about the importance and diversity of food in the country, as well as
giving us a window into the life of a professional food
critic. The full interview can be read at our website, as
space has led to us including only a snippet of it within
this feature.
Restaurant Week
Is there a particular region of the country whose cuisine you particularly enjoy?
The joy of our small size is that we can have breakfast by the
Ljubljanica River, eat a snack in the Karst, lunch by the coast,
have dinner in the Alps and then wake up the next morning by the Mura River. How then, am I supposed to have one
favourite amongst the regions? Dishes from Primorska are
more every day, as they are lighter, fresher and less complicated. In Prekmurje they are more fragrant and in Gorenjska
all you need is a spoon. Though as a food critic I must admit;
most of the best restaurants are closest to Italy; the Dolenjska
region is the most homely, the tajerska region is the most
happening. I would like that the people of Koroka would
be more enterprising and creative restaurant-wise that the
Notranjska region would follow the path of its finest restaurant and I want the Zasavje region to wake up.
Are you still able to enjoy food from a non-critical
point of view?
Do I still enjoy it? It is true that my wife and I have been
involved in gastro-criticism for more than 20 years, and
that at www.rad-dobrojem.si there are already more than
600 reviewed restaurants and that for Nedelo alone we
are already at number 310 ... however, we enjoy it more
than ever! This is because were still learning; were still
discovering and searching for new restaurants, becoming

acquainted with new flavours and challenges. Food is our
life, so even on vacation we photograph, take notes, visit
and eat. Above all, food for us doesnt just mean reviewing
restaurants, so at our website there are many more recipes
than critiques. We are just junkies, arent we? Were just addicted to good food!
How often do you eat out, for pleasure?
Ordinarily once or twice a week we eat for work, otherwise
we try to eat at home as often as possible. Most of the time
Violeta does the cooking, but my goal is to cook at least once
a week. I am convinced that without home cooking there is
no restaurant reviewing. It is rare that we repeat a dish, not
because they arent good but because it is necessary to cook
new dishes. Its just like with restaurants, many of them we
would like to visit again for pleasure, without a notepad and
camera, but we simply dont get to them. Sometimes, I also
envy readers when I advise them where to go.
The second Teden Restavracij of 2014 is coming up this
October. Can you tell us more about the project?
Restaurant Week is a global initiative that takes place in many
countries, but a little differently in each. We initially included
it into our project which was associated with Maribor being
the European Capital of Culture in 2012, starting with eight
restaurants in Maribor. In 2013 it became a nationwide project. In 2014 it will take place twice, in spring and autumn.
From the start the formula was a winning one, with selected
restaurants offering a special menu including at least three
dishes, for a friendly price which matches the calendar year we started at 12 in 2012, now the price is 14.
What can we expect from the October edition?
In the autumn there will be a few more restaurants, though
we do not plan to increase the numbers excessively. This
time the chefs still have an entirely free hand in the selection of menus, although for the year 2015 we are also planning on a few new features here. But already this autumn
there will be a noticeable trend: local suppliers, seasonal
ingredients, and creativity, not just meat.
18.10 Saturday - 26.10 Sunday

Restaurant Week (Teden Restavracij)
Building on the success of the spring edition this past
March (where around 12,000 guests dined), Restaurant Week (Teden Restavracij) returns for an autumn
edition. 10 new restaurants have been added, bringing the grand total to 77 restaurants across the entire
country, all offering three course meals costing only
14. Were talking the finest cuisine in the country
here, at a price that can scarcely be believed. Reservations are already being taken so get yours in soon.
QVarious venues, violeta.mencinger@gmail.com,
www.tedenrestavracij.si.
Uro (second left) and Violeta (second right) Mencinger with the team at El Celler de can Roca, Girona, Spain.
21
Gourmet
Ljubljana
Ljubljana truly is the centrepiece of Slovenia, and as
such the finest produce from around the country naturally ends up here. The gorgeous Plenik designed central market more than displays this, with fresh locally
farmed fruit, vegetables and meats as far as the eye can
see. Add this to artisanal cured meats and Slovenias vast
array of fascinating cheeses and you have a culinary
scene that is as varied as it is enjoyable. Undoubtedly at
the forefront of the national culinary scene, the number
of top quality restaurants in town grows every year, and
putting together the list for this section was arguably
our hardest task. Dig in!
Hia Kulinarike Manna
Set in a colourful little house on one of Ljubljanas prettiest (and most overlooked) streets, Manna offers a divine
selection of contemporary Slovene cuisine for breakfast,
lunch and dinner. Meals are complimented with some tasty
Gourmet
homemade desserts and large choice of both Slovene and
foreign wines, as well as a sophisticated selection of spirits (aged rums, cognacs and whiskeys) and cigars for after
dinner. A large garden and terrace in the back is open all
year, and many people come here to enjoy a coffee, sweets
or light snack.QC/D-5, Eipprova 1a, tel. +386 (0)5 992 23
08, info@kulinarika-manna.si, www.kulinarika-manna.
si. Sommelier Jani Rakovec. Open , Mon, Tue, Wed 08:00
- 24:00, Thu, Fri 08:00 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. Holidays 08:00-22:00. (5-20). PTJA6UGBS
JB restavracija
Firmly entrenched as one of the best restaurants in town,
this fine dining experience comes courtesy of founder and
head chef Janez Bratov (hence the name). Located in one
of Joe Pleniks more imposing secessionist-style buildings,
JB attracts a mix of well-to-do locals and visiting businessmen - guaranteeing you the chance to eavesdrop on conversations in a variety of languages. The menu is comprised
entirely of seasonal specialities and changes daily, with exotic
Ljubljana
Restavracija CuboQmartinska 55, tel. +386 (0)1
521 15 15, info@cubo-ljubljana.com, www.cubo-ljubljana.com. Chef Borut Pugelj Sommelier Matja Kokalj
Restavracija pajzaQmartinska 55, tel. +386
(0)1 521 15 15, info@cubo-ljubljana.com, www.cubo-ljubljana.com. Chef Borut Pugelj Sommelier Matja Kokalj
Restavracija VanderQKrojaka ulica 6-8, tel.
+386 (0)1 200 90 00, info@vanderhotel.com, www.vanderhotel.com. Chef Benjamin Launay, Sommelier Ane
Uakar
Gostilna AsQopova 5a/Knafljev prehod, tel.
+386 (0)1 425 88 22, gostilna.as@siol.net, www.gostilnaas.si. Chef Mara Borac & Svetozar Raspopovi,
Sommelier Svetozar Raspopovi
Restavracija MaximQTrg republike 1, tel. +386
(0)51 285 335, maxim@mercator.si, www.maxi.si.
Chef Andrej Kuhar, Sommelier Matija ubic
Restavracija Pri LevuQ Vonjakova ulica 1,
tel. +386 (0)1 308 7600, info@prilevu.si, www.prilevu.
si. Chef Uro Hribernik, Sommelier Duan Benina
Restavracija StrelecQ Ljubljanski grad,
Grajska planota 1, tel. +386 (0)8 384 31 42, strelec@
kaval-group.si, www.kaval-group.si. Chef Igor Jagodic, Sommelier Gregor Kuralt
Luka Gourmet Franshize Restaurant
PrNoniQPrNoni Cesta v Gorice 1, tel. +386 (0)1
242 58 20, nona@copia.si, www.prnoni.si. Chef
Klavdija Kavar Svete, Sommelier Damjan Svete

Gostilna na GraduQGrajska planota 1, tel.
+386 (0)8 205 19 30, leon@nagradu.si, www.nagradu.
si. Chefs Damjan Fink and Ana Ros. Sommeliers Leon
Furman, Valter Kramar and Svetozar Raspopovi
Restavracija Hotela CuboQSlovenska cesta 15,
tel. +386 (0)1 425 60 00, reception@hotelcubo.com, www.
hotelcubo.com. chefs Inna Belcijan and Toma Zavec

SushimamaQWolfova 12, tel. +386 (0)1 425 04 55,
romeo.plus@siol.net, www.sushimama.si
best restaurant in
Ljubljana
offerings such as bear meat appearing from time to time. The

only downside is the price, easily topping 50 per person for
a proper meal with wine.QD-1, Mikloieva 17, +386 (0)1
430 70 70, info@jb-slo.com, www.jb-slo.com. Chef Janez
Bratov, Sommelier Nina Bratov. Open 12:00 - 23:00, Sat
18:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. PJA
Smrekarjev Hram
Another of Ljubljanas upscale eateries, Smrekarjev Hram
features a wide menu and a long wine list. Make sure
you leave room for a main and a dessert, where you can
select from a range of fish or meat dishes such as grilled
sea bass or beef in goose liver sauce, finishing off with
raspberry pie or baked fig with vanilla ice-cream. The elegant interior of Smrekarjev Hram is offset by the funky
multi-colored straw sculptures which add a touch of fun
to somewhere with more than a touch of class. It also has
excellent daily lunch specials on offer, with soup from 3
and lunches starting from 6.50.QD-3, Nazorjeva 2, tel.
+386 (0)1 308 1907, smrekarjev.hram@union-hotels.

eu, www.smrekarjevhram.si. Chef Kristjan Kljuevek,
Sommelier Sao Metliar. Open 12:00 - 23:00. PT
JA6ULEGBSW
ShambalaQKrievnika 12, tel. +386 (0) 31 843

833, info@shambala.si, www.shambala.si. Chef Bojan
Darda
Pen CubQTomieva ulica 12, tel. +386 (0) 1 2514 160,
eva.maria.miklic@gmail.com, www.restavracija-penklub.si.
HarfaQKoprska ulica 98, tel. +386 (0)1 423 2411,
info@harfa-restavracija.si, www.harfa-restavracija.si.
Chef Botjan Pavli
Ta BarQRibji trg 2, tel. +386 (0) 31 764 063, info@
tabar.si, www.tabar.si. Chef Peter Patajac
Bistro zvezdaQKongresni trg 3, tel. +386 (0)1
421 9091, emina@zvezdaljubljana.si, www.zvezdaljubljana.si. Chef Toma Javurek
Restavracija ValvasorQStari trg, tel. +386
(0)1 425 04 55, info@valvasor.net, www.valvasor.net.
Soups of all kind are vital to all respectable meals in Ljubljana. photo by Bobo
23
Gourmet
Around Ljubljana
Dont let its proximity to the capital cause you to overlook
it; the history and importance of food in the area around
Ljubljana is every bit as fascinating as in the big city. The
small towns and villages that make up the area are full
of charming gostilnas, each with its own story, as well as
a vast array of historical foods. Whether it is the famous
butchers of Trzin, the hearty stews of Menge or the wild
mushrooms that flood the fertile forests, a surprisingly
number of flavours emanates from this charming area.
Whilst the story behind Trni cheese (see box opposite)
is arguably our favourite, we also love the history behind
the Princely Venison Goulash of Kamnik. Immensely popular with the noblemen of the 16th century, the name is
taken from Archduke Charles II, who spent much time
hunting in the area and would frequently eat near Predaselj Gorge, the table at which would come to be named
the Princes table.
Gostilna Repnik
Located in the village of Vrhpolje just a short walk
outside of Kamnik, Gostilna Repnik is a special, special
place. This part of the world is famed for hospitality,
and Repnik stand tall as one of the places taking this
to new heights. The staff are simply beyond excellent,
Gourmet
welcoming and passionate about the food they serve

without being overbearing. And the food? Wow. The
focus is on traditional Slovene fare in the most genuine of ways, complete with a fine selection of wines to
compliment every meal. It has perfected the feel of a
family inn in the classiest manner, juxtaposing a formal
atmosphere with the comforts of home perfectly. By
the way, they also provide romantic horse and carriage
rides around the area after your meal.QVrhpolje 186,
Kamnik, tel. +386 (0)1 839 12 93, info@gostilnarepnik.si, www.gostilna-repnik.si. Open 10:00 22:00, Sun 09:00 - 15:00. Closed Mon.
Skaruna
We are distinguished by simplicity and consistency.
Simplicity, because we prefer to perfect our existing
menu rather than waste time with inventing endless new
dishes. Consistency, because there are no compromises
or shortcuts in selecting the ingredients and preparing
them - Skaruna, Vodice
Gostilna Skaruna
Opened in the village of the same name just north of Ljubljana by Slavko agar Sr back in 1975, to this day Skaruna
has the reputation of satisfying each and every guest, which
Kamnika Bistrica. Seeing that the parking lot was packed

despite the weather, we vowed to return in the near future,
and when we did so several weeks later, we werent disappointed. Popular with hikers, tourists and locals, Pri Planinskem Orlu (or the Mountain Eagle) specialises in local cuisine
prepared according to traditional recipes, and is especially
known for its venison and other game dishes. If you fall in
love with the idyllic natural surroundings and would like to
make a holiday of it, there are several new guest rooms upstairs.QStahovica 20, Stahovica, tel. +386 (0)1 83 25 410,
info@priorlu.si, www.priorlu.si. Open 10:00 - 22:00, Sat
10:00 - 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 20:00. Closed Tue.
best restaurant
around Ljubljana
goes far beyond what is on the plates and in the glasses. The
owner, Slavko agar Jr, is a jolly fellow and exceptional host,
but also takes his cuisine very seriously. Fresh ingredients
come directly from the nearby fields and forests, and even
the wood that fires the open-air barbecue is carefully selected. In short, every meal at Skaruna is a unique, and often
unforgettable, experience.QSkaruna 20, Vodice, tel. +386
(0)1 832 3080/+386 (0)40 799 810, gostilna@skarucna.si,
www.skarucna.si. Open 13:00-22:00. Closed Sun-Mon
and holidays. Groups of 12 or more can make reservations
for Sun with prior arrangement. A6ILB
Pri Planinskem Orlu

Some years ago we got lost trying to take a shortcut
through the mountains in a heavy rain storm and ended
up following a convoy of cars, which serendipitously led
us to this traditional family-run restaurant on the road to
Trni
When we first came across Trni cheese, we thought
it looked like a tiny crown or a babys hat, depending
on the angle from which you were looking. Imagine
our surprise therefore, when we were told that it was
designed in the shape of the breasts of a woman! Yes,
we were surprised, to say the least. Originating from
the hills of Velika planina and the shepherds who
would make it their home throughout the summer,
the cheese was created in the shape of boobs and then
given by a boy to the object of his affections as a sign of
love and fidelity. Well admit that this is a strange sign of
affection, but who doesnt love tasty cheese?
around ljubljana
Gostilna ubr QKri 53, 1218 Komenda, tel.
+386 (0)1 834 11 15, info@gostilna-cubr.com, www.
gostilna-cubr.com. Chef Anita Potonik, Sommelier
Miha Potonik
Gostilna Mihovec QZgornje Pirnie 54, 1215
Medvode, tel. +386 (0)1 362 30 60, gostilna.mihovec@
siol.net, www.mihovec.com. Chef Mojca Trnovec, Sommeliers Mojca Trnovec in Jernej Peta
Restavracija Konoba BonacaQCesta na
svetje 44, 1215 Medvode, tel. +386 (0)1 361 78 60, poljak.bonaca@gmail.com, www.konoba-bonaca.si. Chef
Milenko Poljak, Sommelier tefka Poljak
Anka QDelavska cesta 18, 4208 enur, tel. +386
(0)4 2515 200, gostilna@ancka.si. Chef Marko Magdi
Dvor JezerekQZgornji Brnik 63, 4207 Cerklje
na Gorenjskem, tel. +386 (0)4 252 94 00, gostinstvo@
jezersek.si, www.jezersek.si. Chef Luka Jezerek, Sommelier Andrej Mir
Gostilna GorjancQTraka cesta 330, 1000 Ljubljana, tel. +386 (0) 423 11 11, info@gorjanc.eu, www.
gorjanc.eu. Chef Lazar Dobi
Restavacija EvergreenQSmlednik 200, 1216
Smlednik, tel. +386 (0)41 366 249, evergreen@kavalgroup.si, www.evergreen-restavracija.si. Chef Ane
Gomba, Sommelier Damir Cota
www.priorlu.si
T: (+386) 01 832 54 10
A salty cheese about the size and shape of a pear, the

work that goes into decoration can only be described
as painstaking, but it is worth every second in the end.
Made from cream, cheese and salt, Trni cheese is no
longer given as a gift to lonely maidens, but can be
found in many restaurants in the Kamnik area and further beyond as an extra treat at the end of a hearty meal,
and is definitely a must-try in the heart of Slovenia.
Janez Uri s.p. / Stahovica 20 / 1242 Stahovica
25
Gourmet
Gourmet
Dolenjska
Slovenia as a nation is known for its hearty traditional cuisine, but nowhere is this truer than in the region of Dolenjska. Yes, the food may be humble, but this shouldnt be
seen as a belittling factor, far from it. A rich food culture lives
on here in a truly traditional sense, with many families still
growing their own fruit and vegetables as well as smoking and curing their own meat. This cultured emphasis on
what the home needs means Dolenjska really excels when
it comes to seasonal delights. We have our favourites of
course, coming in the shape of Mot (a most drinkable fresh
cider) and ema, wild garlic that is picked in spring and can
be used to make a pesto the likes of which your taste buds
have never experienced. The dense forests of the region also
lead to a number of Epicurean specialties, such as autumn
chestnuts, wild game and rich forest honey (gozdni med).
The influence of neighbouring cultures, be they Italian,
Austrian, Hungarian or Balkan, truly cannot be denied.
Our taste buds arent complaining, as this has led to a
number of curiosities such as ganci (hard-boiled corn
mush), Matev (a side dish of mashed beans and potatoes) and the liberal use of sour turnips. On the after meal
side of the plate we find Belokranska pogaa, a superb
flatbread as well as various forms of potica. In the past, a
single variety of mushy potica was dominant here, but it
has since been replaced with pehova, an enticing potica
made with lard. We dont use the word enticing in a sarcastic manner there either, it really is excellent.
Vovko
Dolenjci love to eat well.
Its no coincidence that the
best domestic meats are
found right here at home.
They say there isnt a Dolenj that doesnt have their
own vineyard, garden and
pig. Self-sufficiency has
long been in practice here,
not just on paper. - Vovko,
Brusnice (2013 winner)
Gostilna Vovko
Just outside of Novo
Mesto, Vovko has a reputation for producing excellent
dishes from the grill and its reputation that they more
than back up. Whether its the glorious homemade pork
and sausages, the wild deer or any number of other
grilled meats, weve never been let down. Topped off
with a most homely of rustic interiors, Vovko also produce their own wine which is available in the restaurant,
if one of the fine wines already available dont tickle your
fancy. Whatever happens, we cant say no to a mixed
grill.QRate 48, 8321 Brusnice, +386 (0)7 308 56 03,
info@gostilna-vovko.si, www.gostilna-vovko.si. Chef
Rok Vovko
best restaurant In
dolenjska
Boheja
Located within a modern yet warm and friendly building in Novo Mesto, Boheja specialise in producing diverse steaks, which is all we need to know. Cooked on
a unique lava grill, we try not to delve into hyperbole
too often but these steaks must be tasted. They must.
Complimented by other original and seasonal dishes
and aided along the way by waiters who are seemingly
experts on the wines available, Boheja is a great place
to eat when in Novo Mesto.QBelokranjska cesta 24a,
8000 Novo mesto, +386 (0)59 01 06 74, info@boheja.
si, www.boheja.si. Chef Ale Pelc, Sommelier Marko
Pavli
Gostilna Repov
Sat between Celje and Novo Mesto, Gostilna Repov is
homely personified. A family affair with over a hundred
years of tradition already behind it, the richness of the
countryside is multiplied by an awareness of knowledge of food and wine added to superb ingredients
straight from the most ecological of farms making a
terrific experience all round. Wine is produced in their
own vineyards, and there is even three star accommodation on site for those who fancy drinking more than
just a sample.Qentjan 14, 8297 entjan, +386 (0)7
818 56 61, info@gostilna-repovz.si, www.gostilnarepovz.si. Chef Metka Repov, Sommelier Grega
Repov
Grad Otoec
If location is all that matters, we will struggle to find anything more romantic than this. In the middle of the Krka
river, the restaurant nestled inside Otoec castle truly
is a special place. As we often remark, were romantics
at heart, and there arent many more heart-enchanting
restaurants in the entire country. Of course, the food
more than matches the surroundings.QGrajska cesta 2,
Otoec ob Krki, +386 (0)7 384 89 09, otocec@relaischateaux.com, www.relaischateaux.com.
ema
The first time we encountered ema, we were taken
completely off guard. A friend from just outside Ljubljana, who had the temerity to describe it as homemade
pesto, presented us with a small jar of it. Excited, we
decided to use it that very evening, and prepared ourselves some pasta. When it came to applying the pesto,
we were as liberal as usual, and proceeded to have our
socks well and truly blown off by the sheer intensity of
the flavours. We were less liberal with it in future.
ema, also know as bears garlic or the slightly less cool
Cviek
Dolenjska
No discussion of culinary life in Dolenjska is complete

without mentioning the opinion-dividing light wine
known as Cviek. Some hate it, others love it, but everyone has an opinion and it is closely tied to the history
of the region. Failing that, it is also the only wine on the
planet that is made of both red (70%) and white (30%)
grapes, which is quite the claim to fame. Coming out
in a light red colour and full of fruity aromas, Cviek is
most certainly unique.
Nicknamed The Baby Maker by some (not us), Cviek
is low in alcohol content, clocking in at between 8
and 10%. This leads to it being regarded as an everyday wine, a wine that can be enjoyed with little fear
of a morning headache to come. Similar to quite
possibly all wines it is also supposed to have healing
qualities, and goes exceedingly well with meats and
cheeses.
As mentioned, its historical reputation really has been
up and down more times than a particularly busy rollercoaster. As the 19th century moved towards it close,
its reputation couldnt have been lower. Bad cellaring and early harvests had put paid to its quality. This
wouldnt do of course, and after much experimentation
in Novo Mesto at the end of the century it became a
top quality drink. The 20th century saw this see-saw
opinion continue, but with the development of Slovenias wine industry it is firmly back onside now.
Oterija DebeluhQTrg izgnancev 7, 8250

Breice, tel. +386 (0)7 496 10 70, jure@debeluh.si,
www.debeluh.si. Chef and sommelier Jure Tomi
Gostilna RakarQGorenje ponikve 8, 8210
Trebnje, tel. +386 (0)7 346 61 90, info@rakar.si, www.
rakar.si. Chef Tatjana Rakar, Sommelier Botjan Rakar
Pod skednjem Posestvo PuleQ Dreji vrh
16, 8231 Trebelno, tel. +386 (0)7 349 97 00, info@pule.
si, www.pule.si.
Gostilna RepovQentjan 14, 8297 entjan,
tel. +386 (0)7 818 56 61, info@gostilna-repovz.si,
www.gostilna-repovz.si. Chef Metka Repov, Sommelier Grega Repov
Restavracija OtarijaQSokolski trg 2, 8350
Dolenjske Toplice, tel. +386 (0)51 262 990, jernej.jarc@
ostarija.si, www.ostarija.si. Chef Roberto Gregori,
Sommelier Kerin Rok
Restavracija Grad OtoecQGrajska cesta 2,
8222 Otoec ob Krki, tel. +386 (0)7 384 89 09, otocec@
relaischateaux.com, www.relaischateaux.com. Chef
Dejan Pavli
Gostilna olnirQKrka cesta 4, 8311 Kostanjevica na Krki, tel. +386 (0)7 498 71 33, sevsek.simona@siol.net, www.zolnir.eu. Chef Sevek Otto Willi,
Sommelier Sevek Klemen
Domaija JavornikQJavornik Krka 127, 1301
Krka, tel. +386 (0) 31 739 771, info@kayak.si. Chef
Barabara Kotar-Javornik
Many more restaurants from Dolenjska

can be found online at
slovenia.inyourpocket.com
wild garlic, grows wild practically everywhere, most frequently close to bodies of water. It has been a staple of
the area for centuries, with the Romans being particularly fond of it. It has many, many uses, whether being
blended into a soup, used in salads or as a spread. It can
be ate fresh or prepared into a pesto type sauce, as we
encountered. It also has legitimate healing powers, as it
stimulates the glands and has been shown to lower cholesterol. Just dont lavish it all over your pasta if you arent
familiar with the strength of the flavour.
27
Gourmet
Gorenjska
The idea of a seasonal menu may be something of a
fashion trend in the US and UK culinary scenes, but in
Slovenia it has traditionally been how things had to be.
Nowhere is this more true than in Gorenjska, where the
tough Alpine winters meant that waste not, want not
took on an entirely new meaning. Food to fill was the
order of the day, leading to the development of such
delights as rich Krvavica (blood sausage, or black pudding to our UK readers) and everyones favourite boiled
cottage-cheese dumpling, Sirovki truklji. Continuing
the hearty home feel, we also find Krapi, dough pockets
filled with a variety of fillings as well as the old herdsmens dish of Brola, a stew loaded with lamb and vegetables. For the more adventurous among us,
It isnt all just stodge and podge however, as Gorenjska
also does a fine line in fine dining. Seasonal game and
wild mushrooms are among their finest seasonal delights, with fresh trout and Alpine cheeses not far behind.
Of course, no discussion of food in Gorenjska is complete without talking about Kranjska Klobasa, subject of
the Sausage wars between Austria and Slovenia recently. How a sausage seasoned with only salt, pepper and
garlic can taste so good is beyond us, but we certainly
arent complaining.
Gourmet
best restaurant In
Gorenjska
Gostilna Kritof
One of the dozen or so Slovene restaurants that are perennially in the running for the title of the finest dining
in the country, Kritof can be found in the village of
Predoslje just next to Brdo Castle north of Kranj. True
to its small town roots, the restaurant combines the
best of rural ambience and charm with modern Slovenian cuisine, and the family that runs the place is
said to have been the catering business for more than
700 years, so you can rest assured that youre in good
hands. The fresh seasonal menu is certified organic,
and there are also many vegetarian and vegan dishes
to choose from, all of which can be found in English
Restavracija 1906 bled

Food has become a very important value-adding component of the complete tourist experience, as well as at
being visible at every event. There is an ever-increasing
emphasis on traditional Slovenian dishes that include local ingredients, prepared in a healthy and contemporary
way. - Restavracija 1906 Bled, Bled (2013 winner)
Restaurant 1906
Located in the stately four-star Hotel Triglav Bled (which, you
guess it, was founded in 1906), a meal here is guaranteed to
be a fine dining experience of the highest order. The kitchen

of head chef Andrej Rovan creates some simply wonderful
dishes, all of which are modern interpretations of traditional
Slovene recipes, methods and ingredients. In 2011, the restaurant, and its culinary school, were awarded the prestigious Jakob Prize, given each year at Slovenias largest tourism fair to only one winner.QKolodvorska 33, tel. +386 (0)4
575 26 10/+386 (0)31 300 097, info@hoteltriglavbled.si,
www.hoteltriglavbled.si. Chef Andrej Rovan, Sommelier
Damir Salki . PAW
(and with prices) on their website.QPredoslje 22, tel.

+386 (0)4 234 10 30/+386 (0)41 358 786, kristof@
siol.net, www.gostilnakristof.si. Open 12:00 - 24:00,
Sun 12:00 - 17:00.
Hotel Brdo Restaurant
This newly renovated restaurant on the ground floor of
Hotel Brdo (formerly Hotel Kokra) is a perfect place for
lunch on a family trip to the adjacent Brdo Castle and Park.
Decidedly high-end in appearance, service and cuisine,
the menu boasts surprisingly affordable prices, especially
during lunch at the weekends. If youre looking for a more
romantic and/or relaxing getaway, you can combine your
meal with a trip to the onsite wellness centre, or a horsedrawn carriage ride through the park grounds.QPredoslje 39, Kranj, tel. +386 (0)4 260 15 01, brdo-eu@gov.si,
www.brdo.si. Open 07:00 - 22:00. PTALBW
Vila Bled
Whilst the grand stairs leading up to an equally grand
building may look a little daunting at first, what is waiting at the top is quite the treat. Josip Tito deemed it good
Many more restaurants from

Gorenjska can be found online at
Gorenjska
Vila PodvinQMonje 1, 4240 Radovljica, tel. +386
(0)8 384 34 70, info@vilapodvin.si, www.vilapodvin.si.
Chef Uro tefelin, Sommelier Sao Peji
Restavracija Vila BellaQSr. Bela 1b, 4205
Preddvor, tel. +386 (0)4 255 91 00, restavracija.vilabella@gmail.com, www.vila-bella.com. Chef Luka
Lipanovi, Sommelier (and owner) Marjan Ovnik
Restavracija GrillQLjubljanska cesta 6, 4260
Bled, tel. +386 (0)4 620 41 26, reservations@kompaslovec.com, www.grill-bled.com. Chef Dean Grilc, Sommelier Milena Poganik
Pr Kova, KropaQKropa 30, Kropa, tel. +386 (0)4
533 63 20
Gostilna pri DaniluQRetee 48, 4220 kofja
Loka, tel. +386 (0)4 515 34 44, gostilna@pridanilu.
com, http://www.pridanilu.com. Chefs Vesna in Duan
arman, Sommelier Gaper arman
enough to act as his summer residence and many foreign

dignitaries were hosted here, such as Soviet leader Nikita
Krushchev, Indira Ghandi and even Kim Il Sung. Since
opening as a hotel in 1984, it has also had Prince Charles,
Paul McCartney and Eva Herzigova through its doors.
Quite the list. Spacious suites with elegant 1950s furnishing are the order of the day, with a gorgeous restaurant
and peaceful coffee room to boot.QB-4, Cesta Svobode
26, tel. +386 (0)4 575 37 10, vilabled@gov.si, www.
vilabled.com. Open from April till October. 32 rooms,
145-550 with breakfast. HAR6LGKDW
hhhh
Restavracija Grad LamberghQDvorska vas

37 a, 4275 Begunje na Gorenjskem, tel. +386 (0)8
200 50 00, info@hotel-lambergh.com, www.hotellambergh.com
Gostie TulipanQAlpska cesta 8, 4248 Lesce,
tel. +386 (0)4 537 88 00, info@tulipan-azman.si,
www.tulipan-azman.si
Restavracija OkarinaQLjubljanska cesta 8,
4260 Bled, tel. +386 (0)4 574 14 58, leo@okarina.com,
www.okarina.com. Chef Changra Sanu
Restavracija BrioniQKoroka cesta 10, 4000
Kranj, tel. +386 (0)4 201 07 50, brioni@t-2.net, www.
brioni.si
KunsteljQGorenjska cesta 9, 4240 Radovljica, tel.
+386 (0)453 15 178, kunstelj@siol.net, www.kunstelj.
si. Chef Maja Buden
Otarija PegleznQCesta svobode 19a, 4260

Bled, tel. +386 (0)4 574 42 18
Gostilna Pr BizjakQZgornja Bela 20, 4205 Preddvor, tel. +386 4 2555 600, gostilna.bizjak@siol.net,
www.gostilnabizjak.si. Chef Veronika Aljani
Restavracija PanoramaQ Cesta svobode 12,

4260 Bled, tel. +386 (0)4 579 12 75, panorama@hotelibled.com, www.sava-hotels-resorts.com
Pr MatikuQJezerska cesta 41, 4000 Kranj, tel.

+386 (0) 4234 33 60, prmaticku@gmail.com, www.
prmaticku.si
Penzion LipaQKoroka ulica 14, 4280 Kranjska

Gora, tel. +386 (0)4 582 00 00, info@penzion-lipa.si,
www.penzion-lipa.si. Chef Mirza Bektaevi
Skipass, Kranjska GoraQKoroka ulica 14 c,

4280 Kranjska Gora, tel. +386 (0) 4582 1000, info@skipasstravel.si, www.skipasshotel.si. Chef Gaper Korde
29
Istra and Kras

Combine a unique karst landscape and the excellent
Mediterranean climate, and you can expect the excellent produce that this region provides almost at ease.
The farmers in these parts know what they are doing,
and theyve had these skills finely honed for centuries.
Whilst the Slovene coast may be small, the region makes
the most of what it has with some of the finest seafood
anyone could ever wish to come across. The coastal
saltpans also provide truly excellent salt. The bread in
Slovenias slice of the Istrian coast is also exemplary, as
bread-baking was a matter of survival for the longest
time, whether that is financial or as a source of food.
As we move inland we enter the land of exquisite olive
oils, sweet summer figs and delightful Istrian truffles.
Award-winning Karst prosciutto too, the likes of which
is traditionally aged in caves, and goes excellently with
many of the unique changes on offer, such as raw cows
milk Tolminc from the Soa Valley. With such an abundance of excellent local ingredients and conditions, not
to mention the local Italian influence, is it of any surprise
that many of Slovenias finest chefs and restaurants are
found in this part of the country?
best restaurant In
Istra and Kras
Hia Torkla
Situated in a beautifully restored traditional 19th-century
Istrian house in the charming hilltop town of Korte, the
cuisine at Hia Torkla is just as exceptional as the setting.
Prepared using fresh seasonal ingredients from local farmers, hunters and fishermen, many of the dishes are based
on age-old Slovene recipes with a little bit of modern innovation from head chef Sebastijan Kovai. In addition to
the main dining room, there is a large terrace that can be
transformed into an enclosed winter garden during colder
rizibizi
We are a seaside restaurant, so our cuisine is based on
seafood and our philosophy is to prepare dishes using
ingredients from our environment. We believe that in
this way we help to educate about Istrian goods which
the generation of today may have forgotten - Rizibizi,
Portoro
Rizibizi
From the team that brought us the excellent Hia Torkla
comes the restaurant you voted as the best in Istra and

Kras for 2014, the wonderfully named Rizibizi. With two
summer terraces with inspiringly romantic views across
the Bay of Piran and a well stocked wine cellar it really
can do no wrong, as exquisitely prepared dishes come
from the kitchen containing fish fresh from the sea. A
passionate team back It all up, making it a worthy winner.
QVilfanova 10, tel. +386 (0)5 993 53 20, info@rizibizi.
si, www.rizibizi.
months, and a small private salon with a fireplace that can

be reserved for special occasions. After dinner you can
head to the equally grand wine cellar downstairs.QKorte
44b, tel. +386 (0)5 620 96 57, info@hisa-torkla.si, www.
hisa-torkla.si. Open 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon.
Sophia
Some moments in history are truly timeless, while others
are so timeless that they beget the naming of 5-star restaurants. One such case is Sophia at the Kempinski Palace,
which takes its name from the incomparable Sophia Loren,
who stayed here during the 1950s and was captured on
film one evening in a moment that perfectly represented
la Dolce Vita. Housed in the former grand reception area at
the old Palace hotel, the stone pillars, vintage chandeliers
and large fireplace are all restored originals. The cuisine
is a blend of Mediterranean and Italian flavours from the

kitchen of head chef Curt Daniel Scheffler, created with
local ingredients and complimented by a expectedly fine
wine selection.QD-2, Kempinski Palace, Obala 45, tel.
+386 (0)5 692 7000, reservations.portoroz@kempinski.
com, www.kempinski.com/portoroz. Opens end of
April 19:00-23:00. PJAIL

Istra and Kras can be found
online at
istra and kras

Hia FrankoQStaro selo 1, 5222 Kobarid, tel. +386 Gostilna Za Gradom RodicaQKraljeva 10, 6000
(0)5 389 41 20, info@hisafranko.com, www.hisafranko. Koper, tel. +386 (0)5 628 55 05. Chefs Darko & Sonja Rodica
com. Chef Ana Ro, Somemlier Valter Kramar
Gostilna Domaija ajnaQepulje 33, 6210
Gostilna pri Lojzetu - Dvorec Ze- Seana, tel. +386 (0)5 764 10 96, domacija.sajna@gmail.
monoQ5271 Vipava, tel. +386 (0)5 368 70 07, zemo- com, www.sajna.si. Chef Vera ajna, Sommelier Bojan
no@zemono.si, www.zemono.si. Chef Toma Kavi
vab
Restavracija RizibiziQVilfanova 10, 6320
Portoro, tel. +386 (0)5 993 53 20, info@rizibizi.si,
www.rizibizi.si. Chefs Janko Franeti & Toma Bevi,
Sommelier Patricija Beli
Restavracija DamQUlica Vinka Vodopivca 24,

5000 Nova Gorica, tel. +386 (0)5 333 11 47, info@
restavracija-dam.si, www.restavracija-dam.si. Chef and
sommelier Uro Faku
Restavracija PikolQVipavska 94, Rona Dolina,

5000 Nova Gorica, tel. +386 (0)5 302 25 62, info@pikol.
si, www.pikol.si. Chef Maruka Gaparin, Sommelier
Boris Gaparin
Gostilna MahoriQRodik 51, 6240 Kozina, tel.

+386 (0)5 6 800 400, ksenija.mahorcic@gmail.com,
gostilnamahorcic.wordpress.com. Chef Ksenija Krajek
Mahori, Sommelier Martin Mahori
Gostilna ejaQOzeljan 32, 5261 empas, tel. +386 Gostilna RavbarQDol pri Vogljah 5, 6221 Dutov(0)5 308 84 59, zeja@siol.net, Chef Igor Loveri
lje, tel. +386 (0)5 734 61 80, gostilna.ravbar@siol.net.
Chefs Darinka & Nataa Ravbar
Okrepevalnica RujQ Dol pri Vogljah 16, 6221 Dutovlje, tel. +386 (0)5 734 17 20, peter.patajac@gmail.com. Restavracija Grad SocerbQSocerb Socerb 7,
Chef Vildana Patajac, Sommelier Peter Patajac
6275 rni Kal, tel. +386 (0)5 659 23 03, www.socerb.eu.
Chef Milan Graj
Restavracija SofijaQObala 45, 6320
Topli valQTrg svobode 1, 5222 Kobarid, tel. +386 (0)5
Portoro, tel. +386 (0)5 692 70 00, reservations.por389 9300, info@hotelhvala.si, www.hotelhvala.si. Chef
toroz@kempinski.com,
www.kempinski.com/en/
Gorazd Marksl
portoroz/palace-portoroz. Chef Igor Delak, SommeGordiaQKolomban 13, 6280 Ankaran, tel. +386 (0)5 651
lier Bojan Poljak
3085, cepandrej@hotmail.com, www.gordia.si. Chef Andrej
Gredi AvenantiQCeglo 9, 5215 Dobrovo v Br- Cep
dih, tel. +386 (0)5 828 01 20, info@gredic.si, www. TomiQLetovika 1, 6320 Portoro, tel. +386 (0)5 674
gredic.si. Chef Christian Avenanti, Sommelier Chiara 0222, tomi@siol.net, www.hotel-tomi.eu. Chef Mate Matja
Nemaz
Casa NostromoQTomieva 24, 6330 Piran, tel.
pacapanova hiaQKomen 85, 6223 Komen, tel. +386 (0)30 200 000, piranjein@gmail.com, www.pirani+386 (0)5 766 04 00, info@spacapan.si, www.spacapan.si sin.com. Chef Gradimir Dimitri
31
Gourmet
tajerska and Prekmurje
It should come as little surprise that cuisine in Prekmurje,
Slovenias easternmost region bordering Hungary has a
truly distinctive feel as opposed to the rest of the country.
Rich, meaty stews such as Gola and Bogra abound, along
with many interesting local techniques for smoking meats
such as Pohorje Bunka (lightly smoked pork) and elodec
(flat stomach salami). The most famous dish of all from this
region is Prekmurksa Gibanica, a fairly eclectic desert combining apple, cottage cheese, poppy seeds and walnuts.
tajerska itself has a rich culinary history too. Rural farmers
would head to the towns of the area to do business, and
would often stay overnight in the local inns. Much in the
same way that businessmen today treat themselves, these
farmers would resist ordering the same food they get at
home and instead splash out on something a little fancier.
No boiled corn-mush for them, instead plumping for delicious roasted meats and stuffed breasts. Whilst tajerska
might be more famous for its wines, the food on offer
shouldnt be overlooked.
Both Prekmurje and tajerska are also famous throughout
the nation for pumpkin seed oil. This rich and nutty oil has a
mass of purposes, with our favourite being to lightly drizzle
it over some fresh skuta (cottage-cheese).
Gourmet
best restaurant
In tajerska and
Prekmurje

tajerska and Prekmurje can be
found online at
restavracija pavus
The tajerska region has awoken from its culinary sleep
recently with some excellent chefs opening their own restaurants. Our knowledge of culinary techniques is extensive, our respect for local dishes and ingredients is deep
and the results are impressive - Restavracija Pavus
Pavus Grad Tabor
For a truly unique dining experience hike up to Tabor
Castle on the hill overlooking the town. Dating back
to the 11th century, the castle was in ruins for nearly
two hundred years until the Lako Brewery rebuilt it in
the mid-1980s. The compact but beautifully restored

premises are now one of the most popular places in the
country for weddings. The food itself is actually quite
well-regarded, albeit not exactly budget friendly, and
the sweeping views of the valley from the terrace more
than make up for any premium youll pay.QCesta na
Svetino 23, tel. +386 (0)3 620 07 23/+386 (0)51 614
664, info@pavus.si, www.pavus.si. Open Tues-Sat
11:00-22:00, Sat 11:00-20:00, Sun and Holiday 11:0020:00 (in winter 11:00-16:00). Closed Mon. (6-23).
PTALB
Gostilna Francl
Regarded by locals as one of the best restaurants in the
region, if not the entire country, Francl has never left us
disappointed and should more or less be considered a
must-visit destination. They do all kinds of traditional Slovenian and Savinjska cuisine, in addition to some unique
creations of their own. Theres also an ample selection
of vegetarian dishes. Its located in a small village on the
right bank of the river a few minutes drive south of Celje
(just follow the signs), and calling ahead for reservations is
probably a good idea.QZagrad 77, tel. +386 (0)3 492 64
60/+386 (0)3 492 64 61, peter.zaversek@siol.net. Open
10:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. (6-21).
Restavracija Mak
Despite being a little out of the way and not possessing the
most inspiring of interiors, Restavracija Mak has forged a reputation as Maribors finest restaurant, a testament to the quality
of its food if ever there was one. Sure, it isnt cheap, but food
this good rarely is. A meal at Mak is an education in appreciating the art of cooking, something that could be deemed lost in
the fast-moving modern world. The attention to detail is truly
Gostilna RajhQBakovci, Soboka ulica 32, 9000

Murska Sobota, tel. +386 (0)2 543 90 98, info@rajh.
si, www.rajh.si. Chef Metka Jerebic, Sommelier Damir
Pintari
Gostilna Pri LenikuQDupleka cesta 49, 2000
Maribor, tel. +386 (0)2 471 23 22, gostilna.lesnik@siol.
net, www.gostilna-motel-lesnik.si. Chef Damjan Veber, Sommelier Gajek Milan
Gostilna TonekQ Panonska 27, 9231 Beltinci, tel. +386 (0)2 542 22 90, info@gostilna-toncek.si,
www.gostilna-toncek.si.
Gostilna GastuQpitali 9, 3215 Loe, tel.

+386 (0)3 752 37 00, rezervacije@gastuz.si, www.gastuz.si. Chef Sergej Gapari, Sommelier Joe Obrul
Gostilna MilleniumQZg. Hoe 64, 2311 Hoe,
tel. +386 (0)2 618 17 14, www.milenium.si. Chef Mirko
Kramberger, Sommelier Samo Kramberger
Gostilna TramekQerovinci 25 b, 2259 Ivanjkovci, tel. +386 (0)2 719 40 97, info@gostilnatramsek.si,
www.gostilnatramsek.si. Chef Jelena Tramek
Restavracija AmonQOlimje 24, 3254 Podetrtek,
tel. +386 (0)3 818 24 80, info@amon.si, www.amon.si.
Romarin
A restaurant, shop, caf, wine cellar and club all in one,
Romarin is one of our favourite spots for food in Maribor.
Opened by former professional tennis player Sasa Arsenovic, this sleeker than sleek establishment offers a varied
menu that drips in quality from top to bottom. The experience and passion for food is impossible to ignore. Shared
plates are available in the evening for the more social
eaters and we cant speak highly enough of the cheerful
staff. A delight.QC-2, Gosposka 8, tel. +386 (0)41 60 19
61, restavracija@rozmarin.si, www.rozmarin.si. Open
08:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 02:00. Closed Sun. (6-45).
PTJA6UEGBKSW
tajerska and Prekmurje
Hia RaduhaQLue 67, 3334 Lue, tel. +386 (0)31

645 758, info@raduha.com, www.raduha.com. Chef
Martina Breznik
second to none.QOsojnikova 20, tel. +386 (0)2 620 00 53,

info@restavracija-mak.si, www.restavracija-mak.si. Open
12:00 - 15:00, 18:00 - 21:30. Closed Mon, Sun.
Gostilna k RotundiQSelo 30a, 9207 Prosenjakovci, tel. +386 (0)2 544 10 35, info@krotundi.com, www.
krotundi.com. Chefs Gizela Grabar and Duan Per
Gostilna na GriuQCesta Maksa Kavia 2, 2235
Sveta Trojica v Slov. Goricah, tel. +386 (0)2 729 23 56,
info@gostilnanagricu.com, www.gostilnanagricu.com
Galerija OkusovQNovo Celje 9, 3301 Petrove,
tel. +386 (0)31 657 605, info@galerijaokusov.si, galerijaokusov.si. Chef Borut Jovan
Hotel EvropaQKrekov trg 4, 3000 Celje, tel. +386
(0) 3 426 9000, info@hotel-evropa.si, www.hotel-evropa.si. Chef Iztok Lednik
Gostilna ikerQMona 7, 2231 Pernica, tel. +386 (0)
2 720 6921, info@siker.si, www.siker.si. Chef Breda Cotar
tajerska hia kulinarikeQGoova 38 a,
2235 Sveta Trojica, tel. +386 (0)51 370 676, rezervacije@shk.si, www.shk.si. Chef Gregor Brodnjak, Sommelier Sao Kramberger
Gostilna empeterQBistrica ob Sotli 76, 3256
Bistrica ob Sotli, tel. +386 (0) 51 620 011, sreco@sem5er.com. Chef Ratimir Harapin
Restavracija TerasaQUlica kneza Koclja 22,
2000 Maribor, tel. +386 (0)2 292 7002, restavracija@
cityhotel-mb.si, www.cityhotel-mb.si. Chef Robi
ibrat
33
Restaurants
Restaurants
Gjina
Voted by our readers as the best Slovenian restaurant
in Ljubljana for 2013, Gjina offers traditional cuisine
from the region of Prekmurje, which is situated in
the far northeastern corner of the country and heavily influenced by neighbouring Hungary, Austria and
Croatia. One of the most typical dishes is the awardwinning bogra, a thick meaty stew that comes served
in a large copper kettle, while the multi-layered cake
known as gibanica is easily the best in the city and an
absolute must for dessert. Check the chalkboard or ask
your waiter for the daily specials.QD-4, Mestni Trg 19,
tel. +386 (0)8 380 64 46, info@prekmurska-gostilna.
si, www.prekmurska-gostilna.si. Open 08:00 - 24:00.
PJAB
Jelen
Located in ika some 5km from the city centre, this guest
house and restaurant has been serving locals and tourists
alike since 1878. Theres a full menu of traditional Slovene
dishes as well as an assortment of tasty Balkan-style grilled
meats and pizzas from a wood-fired oven. Upstairs there
are five fully equipped modern rooms, which are convenient if youve got an early morning flight to catch or have
just eaten (or drunk) too much to make it very far from
the table.QCelovka 462, tel. +386 (0)1 5161 545, info@
pension-jelen.eu, www.pension-jelen.eu. Open 07:00
- 23:00, Sun 07:00 - 22:00. 3.80-16. PTAUB
SW
Bistro Platanas outdoor seating on Kongresni trg is as delightful as it is romantic
Slovenian
Aroma
Located in the citys oldest house, dating from 1528, this
newly opened restaurant has already become a popular
choice for visitors to Ljubljana. Aroma has a diverse menu
offering traditional Slovene dishes as well as almost anything else you might fancy - from steaks and pizzas to
salads and desserts - as well as a good selection of quality
Slovene wines. Breakfast specials look good too. Almost
as hard as choosing what to order is deciding whether to
sit inside under the beautiful vaulted ceilings or outside
in prime position besides the Ljubljanica river.QD-3, Ribji
Trg 2, tel. +386 (0)31 30 70 30, www.aroma-ljubljana.si.
Open 08:00 - 24:00. PJABW
Druga Violina
Good locally grown produce, a simple short menu of
Slovene classics, top location in the citys old town, but
theres a twist in the tale with the other violin (as the English translation of the name goes). Its actually a project for
people with disabilities, who produce much of the food
on a farmland near Ljubljana and also work as waiting staff
in the restaurant itself. Come and see what its all about,
while enjoying one of the fresh local dishes either in the
rustic dining room or on the delightful cobbled pavement
outside, voted Best Restaurant Summer Terrace 2014 by In
Your Pocket readers.QD-4, Stari trg 21, tel. +386 (0)82 05
25 06, druga.violina@center-db.si. Open 07:00 - 24:00.
PJAUBW
Gostilna Pod Vrbo is tradition personified
Gostilna Gorjanc
With over two centuries of tradition (it was officially
opened for business in 1813), Gorjanc is one of the longest running traditional Slovenian restaurants around
Ljubljana, but at the same time its also one of the newest,
as it underwent extensive restoration and modernisation
at the same time the G Design Hotel was built next door.
Along with the standard hearty Slovenian fare, such as
blood sausages and sauerkraut with pork fat cracklings,
the menu makes room for various refined fish, pastas,
salads and other gourmet dishes. On weekdays there are
lunch specials on offer that can be seen in advance on
their website.QH-5, Traka 330, tel. +386 (0)1 423 11
11, info@gdesignhotel.si, www.gdesignhotel.si. Open
11:00 - 22:00, Sun 11:00 - 17:00. PTALW
Gostilna Pod Vrbo
This traditional Slovenian gostilna is located in one of Ljubljanas oldest neighbourhoods, just metres from the former
home of famed architect Joe Plenik. On sunny days the
name Pod Vrbo (under the willows) takes on a literal meaning
with tables out in the garden, while in winter you can cosy up
beside the fire. The kitchen turns out excellent Slovenian and
Mediterranean dishes - some served in traditional copper pots
and earthenware bowls - whilst the daily menus and seasonal
specials, like homemade chestnut gnocchi with porcini mushrooms, are a great value.QZiherlova 36, tel. +386 (0)1 280
88 92/+386 (0)41 712 806, www.podvrbo.si. Open 11:00 22:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00, Sun open by prior arrangement.
35
Restaurants
Restaurants
Vodnikov Hram
Named after Valentin Vodnik, whos widely regarded as
one of the first Slovene poets and journalists and also
lends his name to the adjacent square, this is one of the
better known places to sample traditional Slovenian
cuisine in Ljubljana. Dining under its vaulted brick ceilings is a recommended experience, as is grabbing a
coffee or ice cream on the terrace while youre waiting
for the nearby funicular railway to ferry you up to the
castle.QD/E-3, Vodnikov Trg 2, tel. +386 (0)12 34 52
60, vodnikov.hram@gmail.com, www.vodnikov-hram.
si. Open 07:30 - 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. (4.50-24).
PTAULGSW
kratochwill
Asian
Kratochwill
Here at Ljubljana IYP, we wont even attempt to deny that
we are beer lovers. How can we fail to love, in that case, a
gostilna featuring an award-winning brewery with 30 years
of history and a Czech brewmeister at the helm? Kratochwill,
with three locations throughout town, produce an excellent
variety of beers that perfectly compliment that excellent
Kuhinja Krui
Aside from the Euro, nothing has stirred up more disagreement amongst Europeans in recent years than horse meat
- Slovenia being one of the countries where people largely
have no problem with horses finding their way onto kitchen
tables. Like-minded visitors in Ljubljana will thus surely want
to add the family-run Krui to their itinerary. Operating a
butchery for over a century, its one of the countrys top
suppliers of horse meat, which also dominates the menu in
various different forms at the restaurant on the same premises. Various appetisers, stews, cured meats and of course
steaks from horse are on offer here, all of which can be
enjoyed in the charming little dining room or taken away.
QL-3, Bezenkova 11, tel. +386 (0)1 544 61 41, www.
mesarstvo-krusic.si. Open 08:00-16:00 Mon-Wed, 08:0022:00 Thur-Fri. Closed Sat-Sun and holidays. LS
CHINESE RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA

Masarykova 21, 1000 Ljubljana
00 386 (0) 30 318 377
traditional food on offer. The Venison Goulash comes highly

recommended, and we truly cant back that recommendation up enough. All this comes at a more than affordable
price, with half a litre of their beer coming in at less than 3.
We couldnt ask for more.Qmartinska 152, tel. +386 (0)40
67 90 65, btckratochwill@gmail.com. Open 09:00 - 22:00.
pajza
An exceedingly classy affair with chunky, creaking wooden floors, a number of different rustic-feel rooms to eat in,
an extensive menu of Slovenian and international dishes,
and an antique silver cash register in the entrance. Located on one of the old towns quaintest most photogenic
streets, its popular with many people including business professionals, tourists and couples. During the summer months they have one of the most romantic courtyards in Ljubljana.QD-5, Gornji Trg 28, tel. +386 (0)1
425 30 94, info@spajza-lj.si, www.spajza-restaurant.
si. Open 12:00 - 23:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. (7.50-15).
JA6GBS
Vander Restaurant
More than a hotel restaurant, Vander Urbani is a top destination for exquisite dining in Ljubljanas old town. Head
chef Benjemin Launay adds a modern touch to traditional
Slovenian favourites, with dishes such as truklji, jota and
likrofi undergoing 21st century transformations that result in some truly delectable (and beautifully presented)
cuisine. The so-called deep dish lunch menu changes
weekly, while the la carte dinner menu is seasonal with
only the freshest ingredients sourced from local markets,
farmers and forests. We also like to stop by for breakfast
when we get the chance, as the international atmosphere
gives us the feeling of being on holiday.QD-4, Krojaka
6-8, tel. +386 (0)1 200 9000, info@vanderhotel.
com, vanderhotel.com. Open Mon-Sat 07:00-11:00
(breakfast), 12:00-15:00 (lunch), 19:00-23:00 (dinner).
PJAEW
Beli Labod
Located a short walk east of the train station, dont be
put off by the fact that the sign outside advertisers both
a Chinese restaurant and pizzeria, as the latter is an innocent remnant of the former occupant. Quite fittingly for a
place called Beli Labod (Slovene for White Swan), the inner beauty here shines through, with excellent food and
genuinely friendly service. Theres also a huge sunny terrace out front and free parking in the back. Among the
many house specialties the so-called hot plates stand
out, since its a well-known fact that food just tastes better when its served on a sizzling iron dish. A second location is at Bizantova 22 in Medvode.QF-1, Masarykova 21,
tel. +386 (0)30 318 377/+386 (0)64 198 748, info@belilabod.com, www.beli-labod.com. Open 10:00 - 22:00.
PTJALB
Shambala
Not only does Shambalas kitchen turn out some of the
best (and spiciest) Asian cuisine in Slovenia, but the tranquil, almost meditative, ambience of the place allows you
to enjoy your meal in a state of perfect relaxation - with
some of the best service in town thrown in as an added
benefit. During the warmer months, diners can also take
advantage of the pleasant little garden that is tucked away
in one of the buildings inner courtyards. Situated down
a narrow alleyway off Breg, this hidden gem is definitely
worth finding.QC-4, Krievnika 12, tel. +386 (0)1 426
30 14/+386 (0)31 843 833, info@shambala.si, www.
shambala.si. Open 12:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. (3.509.50). PTJAGBK
Sushimama
The first - and for a long time only - Japanese restaurant in
Slovenia, the small and intimate Sushimamas interesting
little touches beyond the actual food include a subscription to Wallpaper magazine and the brave act of putting
the head Japanese sushi chef Hiroki Ishikawa on display as
he works in the restaurant. The extensive menu features
every Japanese favourite from soups to noodle soups, a
number of delicate rice- and noodle-based dishes to of
course the sushi itself. Complimented by an extensive list
of cocktails and wines, the restaurant is marking its terfacebook.com/ljubljana.inyourpocket
Sample traditional Slovene cuisine in the heart of the old town at

Vodnikov Hram
ritory as the first and finest of its kind.QC/D-3, Wolfova

12, tel. +386 (0)40 70 20 70, www.sushimama.si. Open
11:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. (11-24). PJARG
BXS
Tokyo Piknik
Despite what the name may suggest, Tokyo Piknik offers
a whole range of Asian cuisine as well as more recognisable Western dishes. With plenty of outdoor seating by
the river, it represents another excellent option for a casual
afternoon lunch or an atmospheric evening meal, another
string to Ljubljanas growing bow of Asian food. It also
GOSTILNICA Rimska XXI
With its low arched ceilings, moody red walls and

touch of rustic furnishings this homey low-key restaurant has already become one of our favourite places
to come when were in the mood for traditional Slovene cuisine it a great setting. Fresh homemade dishes
of all sorts are are the speciality here, including deer,
fish and wood-baked meats, and the menu changes
daily depending on the season and whims of the head
chef. Even the beer, juice and brandy is homemade,
and theres also an excellent selection of Slovene
wines.QB-4, Rimska 21, tel. +386 (0)1 256 56 54,
gostilnica.xxi@gmail.com, www.r-g.si/xxi. Open
11:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. (6-20).
PTJA6IB
37
Restaurants
Restaurants
gourmetstreetfood
its premises with a fish mongers from which fastidious

diners can select their own fish. The main dining area has
been carefully restored, with attention given to seemingly
every detail - from the copper covered wiring to the heavy
wooden furniture to the low arched brick ceiling. Aside
from the expectedly wide variety of fish, our favourite dish
is the fresh succulent calamari (easily amongst the best in
town), while unbelievably cheap lunch specials (3-7) can
be ordered to take away all day.QD-3, Vodnikov Trg 5, tel.
+386 (0)1 434 94 45, info@rival-junior.si. Open 10:00 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00.
Indian
happens to be the only real ramen bar in Slovenia, and all
the noodles you will gorge on are completely hand-made.
Regardless of the time of day, the desserts are wonderful, both the taste and the aesthetics.QD-4, Cankarjevo
Nabreje 25, tel. +386 (0)30 60 88 08, romeo.plus@siol.
net, www.tokyopiknik.com. Open 09:00 - 00:00.
Balkan
Das Ist Valter
If youre wondering why one of Ljubljanas most popular Balkan restaurants has a distinctly German name, the
answer lies in the 1972 Yugoslav cult classic Valter Brani
Sarajevo (Walter Defends Sarajevo). In addition to walls
covered with the usual posters and other memorabilia,
the film itself actually plays continuously on loop, with

a hushed silence coming over the entire place during
the climax. Perhaps most impressive is the fact that it
all feels completely authentic, while the heaping plates
of grilled meat are not only mouthwateringly delicious,
but also ridiculously inexpensive. Dont forget to order a
bottle (or five) of Sarajevsko pivo and save room for baklava.QF-2, Njegoeva 10, tel. +386 (0)1 430 5195, www.
dasistvalter.si. Open 10:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri 10:00 - 24:00,
Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 19:00. JB
Gostilna ad
When you ask locals to name their favourite Balkan restaurant in Ljubljana, ad is one of the most frequently heard
answers. Situated by Ronik Hill around corner from Tivoli
Park, its also the longest-running restaurant of its kind in
town, and guests can dine in the shady garden surrounded by nature or in the rustic homey interior. Specialising in
spit and grilled dishes, the beefsteaks, grilled peppers and
raznjici skewers all come highly recommended.QJ-3, Cesta Na Ronik 18, tel. +386 (0)1 251 34 46, info@gostilnacad.si, www.gostilna-cad.si. Open 11:00 - 23:00. (5-15).
PTJAUILEGBXSW
Namast
Set along the beautifully redeveloped Breg riverside walk
in the old town, Namast is the longest running Indian restaurant in all of Slovenia, and offers one of Ljubljanas most
romantic dining experiences of any flavour - with soft yellow hued lighting, hand-painted walls and a relaxed cosy
atmosphere. The house specialties are dishes from the Rajastan and Punjab regions, which are prepared individually
with spices directly imported from the subcontinent and
can be ordered mild to extra hot. Sometimes we like to
stop by just to savour a cup of spicy masala chai.QC/D-4,
Breg 8, tel. +386 (0)14 25 01 59, fax +386 (0)1 236 20
27, info@restavracija-namaste.si, www.restavracijanamaste.si. Open 11:00 - 24:00, Sun 11:00 - 22:00. (521). PTJA6UGBXS
The floating garden terrace at Gostilna As has to be experienced to be believed
International
Argentino
The journey out to BTC is well worth the effort, for Argentino really needs to be experienced to be believed. Huge
and based on a classic Argentinean hacienda on two levels
with further seating outside, the interior designer had a
great time thinking this one up. Featuring vast paintings,
enormous mirrors, video projectors, a fabulous bar and
an even lovelier open kitchen, which turns out a dizzying
array of mouth-watering Latin American dishes including some of the best steaks in Ljubljana. Theres also an
Fish
Taverna Tatjana
Dining at this impossibly quaint and homey house tucked
away on Gornji Trg is akin going over to your aunts for
dinner - if only your aunt were able to prepare exquisite
Dalmatian dishes and lived in a house decorated to resemble the luxurious living quarters on an old wooden
sailing ship. The tables are arranged haphazardly to take
advantage of the various little nooks that provide for a
more intimate meal, and theres just the right amount of
wear and tear that a place like this needs to feel authentic.QD-5, Gornji Trg 38, tel. +386 (0)1 421 00 87/+386
(0)41 707 900, taverna.labe@gmail.com, www.tavernatatjana.si. Open 17:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun. (7-24).
PTJA6UGBSW
Enjoy excellently spicy Asian cuisine at relaxing Shambala. photo

by Peter Irman
Valentin
Taking its name from the famed Slovene priest, poet and
journalist, Valentin Vodnik, the restaurant is situated opposite his statue just north of the central market, and shares
One of a kind! 120 years of tradition

120 years or premium quality
...........................................................
Opening time- Every day 11:00-23:00
phone +386 (0)1 251 34 46
www.gostilna-cad.si
39
Restaurants
Restaurants
Gostilna As
One of Slovenias first truly world class restaurants when
it opened its doors in the centre of Ljubljana more than
a quarter century ago, in the years since it hasnt missed
a beat, still serving some of the very best Mediterraneaninspired cuisine in the city. For us the true standouts on
the menu are the fantastic seafood specialties (both
starters and main courses), but you also cant go wrong
with the steaks, grilled to order on an open-fire. When
in doubt, you can rely on the friendly and professional
staff for recommendations, as well as guidance with the
equally superb wine list. A must for lovers of extravagant
dining!QC-3, opova 5a (Knafljev Prehod), tel. +386
(0)1 425 88 22, gostilna.as@siol.net, www.gostilnaas.si.
Open 12:00 - 01:00. PJAGB
excellent wine cellar with some 130 different Argentinean wines.QM-3, martinska 152 (BTC), tel. +386 (0)1
523 36 30, info@argentino.si, www.argentino.si. Open
09:00 - 23:00, Fri-Sat 09:00 - 24:00, Sun and holidays
12:00 - 17:00. (5.20-45). PTAR6UILG
BXSW
mix of continental fare with some Slovenian flourishes, and

the meals are inexpensive enough that your companys expense account wont feel a thing.QL-1, Dunajska 154, tel.
+386 (0)1 588 25 00, ljubljana@austria-trend.at, www.
austria-trend.at. Open 10:00 - 23:00. (8-20). PO
TAULEGDSW
As Aperitivo
The more casual dining wing of the legendary Gostilna As
next door, Aperitivo is one of the top choices for business
lunches, light snacks and afterwork drinks in the city centre. Inspired by the giant tree that still grows through the
middle of it, the building was completely rebuilt in 2011,
now consisting of a large airy space on the ground floor
with a floating terrace above, all of which is furnished
with creations by some of the top names in design. For
price-conscious diners there are gourmet daily set menus
starting from only 8, while the excellent full la carte
menu focuses on Mediterranean cuisine and steaks.QC-3,
opova 5a, Knafljev Prehod, tel. +386 (0)1 425 88 22,
gostilna.as@siol.net, www.gostilnaas.si. Open 10:00 01:00. JAEBW
Bistro Platana
Adjoined to the bar of the same name, Bistro Platana has
an unbeatable location on Kongresni trg and some quality
food to boot. A varied menu is on offer, with pastas, meat
and fish dishes on offer among much more. Were particularly fond of their collection of stuffed squid, which was new
for us! The Kosilo Ljubljana (Lunch Ljubljana) offer is the real
winner however, four courses of traditional Ljubljana food
with a glass of Slovenian wine thrown in.QKongresni trg 7,
tel. +386 (0)1 251 35 97, mirjam.jurca@gmail.com. Open
08:00 - 22:00, Sat 08:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun.
Austria Trend
The hotel is undeniably focused on the business traveller
and this, their four-part restaurant and lounge follows in
the same spirit. The stylish lounge is found just as you enter
with full coffee and spirits offerings. Inside the restaurant
is divided into three parts which range from wide open
bistro style to more formal intimate settings. The food is a
Caf Romeo
Red leather seating with some very strange lighting indeed and the pinkest walls you ever did see, makes Romeo easy to spot along the narrow cobbled streets of the
old town. A great place for good value Mexican and fusion food for all the family during lunchtime or, later on,
for a buzzy little cocktail adventure with the great and the
good of the city. They also happen to make some of the
best crepes in town.QD-4, Stari Trg 6, tel. +386 (0)1 426
90 11, romeo.plus@siol.net, www.caferomeo.si. Open
10:00 - 01:00. PJA6UGBXSW
Marley & Me
Acres of stripped pine, friendly professional service and
one of the best kitchen smells in the city, this intimate bistro-type restaurant is comes highly recommended. Standouts from the small yet varied menu include the large and
tasty salads, delicious pastas and some truly memorable
meat and fish dishes. Be warned though, the place is immensely popular, and waiting for a table during the day is
a common occurrence.QD-4, Stari Trg 9, tel. +386 (0)8
380 66 10/+386 (0)40 564 188, info@marleyandme.si,
www.marleyandme.si. Open 11:00 - 23:00. (3-22). .
PJA6UGBXSW
Hotel Cubo Restaurant

For fine modern dining right in the heart of the city centre,
look no further than the ground floor of Hotel Cubo. Just
steps away from some of Ljubljanas top cultural venues
(Cankarjev Dom, Drama Theatre and the Slovenian Philharmonic) Cubo is a popular choice for a pre- or postperformance dinner. The tranquil interior and professional
service also makes it a common destination for important
business lunches, while gourmet cuisine is creatively prepared with the freshest ingredients, and complimented
by an exquisite wine list. Free kerbside valet service and
shuttles for groups of four or more guests are added
bonuses.QC-4, Slovenska 15, tel. +386 (0)1 425 60 30,
www.hotelcubo.com. Open 12:00 - 16:00. Closed Sat,
Sun. PJALW
Le Petit Restaurant
Discovered by following the gorgeous spiral staircase
inside the Parisian-style caf of the same name, Le
Petits restaurant eschews the cosmopolitan French
capital in favour of the luxury and sophistication of
the Cote dAzur with predictably glamorous results. A
diverse range of cuisine is on the menu, with extra attention paid to the aesthetics. It has been said that we
eat with our eyes, and boy is this true in the case of Le
Petit.QC-4, Trg Francoske Revolucije 4, tel. +386 (0)1
251 25 75, info@lepetit.si, www.lepetit.si. Open 11:00
- 01:00, Sun 11:00 - 17:00. Holidays closed. (8-21).
PJAGW
Sample a taste of the Cote dAzur at Le Petit
41
Restaurants
Restaurants
Romansa 1971
This restaurant on the ground floor of the Maxi Market
shopping centre still manages to exude a small bistrolike ambiance, thanks in large part to its pleasant soft
lighting, beige tones and open kitchen. Floor to ceiling
windows and ample seating on the terrace also offer
some prime people watching for those who are interested. The menu tends towards light and fresh international dishes, and the place is exceedingly popular for
business lunches - which can be viewed in advance
on the restaurants website.QC-3, Trg Republike 1,
tel. +386 (0)51 285 339, romansa.maxi@mercator.si,
www.maxi.si. Open 07:30 - 22:00, Sat 10:00 - 15:00.
Closed Sun. PJALB
Stara Maka
Ljubljanas original steakhouse has occupied some prime
real estate along the Ljubljanica river just steps from
Preeren Square for longer than we can remember. The
mouthwatering steaks come in various different sizes and
cuts, and are complimented with equally well-prepared
side dishes. They also offer lighter fare such as seafood
dishes and some incredible salads, while the outside terrace is a popular spot to linger over cocktails during the
warmer months of the year. In the autumn and winter the
interior dining space offers a cosy retreat from the elements.QD-3/4, Krojaka 8, tel. +386 (0)1 251 17 49, info@
staramacka.si, www.staramacka.si. Open 09:00 - 03:00.
. PJA6UEGBW
Maxim
In the heart of the city centre this modern, business-orientated
restaurant provides a fine menu of dishes including duck breast
with mashed potatoes, soups, seafood, and a galaxy of fabulous puddings. Theres a huge wine list too, and a nice terraced
area complete with water features for quality outdoor summer
dining. Popular with professional locals and foreigners alike.
QC-3, Trg Republike 1, tel. +386 (0)51 28 53 35, www.maxi.
si. Open 12:00-23:00 Mon-Fri, and Sat by prior agreement.
Closed Sun. (19 and more). PJALGBS
Plato
Located right in the centre of town next to one of Ljubljanas
most recognisable modern buildings - a twisting white office
tower that takes some interesting architectural liberties - this
restaurant is something of an oasis above the bustling square
below. The lunch-time only menu is international with a focus
on light and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and can
change daily depending on what is in season or just especially fresh that day at local markets. If youre not too keen
on the days set menus you can also order la carte.QC-2,
Ajdovina 1, tel. +386 (0)1 230 84 80, plato@siol.net,
plato.si. Open 11:00 - 17:00, Sat 12:00 - 17:00. Closed
Sun. (4.5 - 22). PTJAGBXSW
Plaza Hotel Restaurant
The hotel restaurant at the magnificent towering Plaza
Hotel in BTC is an expectedly resplendent affair, befitting
of its four-star home and largely business clientele. The
menu is short and focussed, ensuring freshness while
also offering enough variety to satisfy most tastes. Dishes

include Slovene specialities (such as Idrijas famed likrofi
and various homemade cured meats), as well as international standards.QM-3, Bratislava 8, tel. +386 (0)1 243
00 00, info@plazahotel.si, www.plazahotel.si. Open for
dinner 19:00-22:00. PALW
Pri Levu
When the world-class Hotel Lev was constructed in 1964,
it was built on the site of what had been a well-known local
restaurant called Pri Levu. In 2009, the restaurant was finally
reopened (or at least re-imagined) within the hotel itself, and
has since become one of the citys top spots to dine. The wine
list is also one of the most impressive around, as are the beautifully presented desserts, while the ambience is decidedly
elegant without being pretentious.QC-2, Vonjakova 1, tel.
+386 (0)1 308 7600, info@prilevu.si, www.prilevu.si. Open
11:30 - 23:30, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. PJA
Promenada
Just steps from Preeren Square, Promenada restaurant
(and the caf of the same name next-door) occupies a
prime riverside location with great drinking and eating options. The menu features a fine selection of Slovenian wines
complemented by spiced Balkan grills, hearty Slovenian fare
and delicate seafood dishes, while the restaurants woodfired oven doesnt just provide a cosy atmosphere, from it
emerge some very tasty pizzas.QPetkovkovo Nabreje 9,
tel. +386 (0)8 383 10 82, info@restavracija-promenada.
si, www.restavracija-promenada.si. Open 12:00 - 24:00.
tern
The sprawling country-style restaurant located within the
premises of the Ljubljana Resort in the north of the city frequently hosts celebrations, reunions and other such large
jovial gatherings. Another option for groups in search of
fresh air is arranging a picnic in advance, which includes
food, drinks and use of the resorts facilities. The menu is
focussed primarily on grilled and fried meat dishes with
healthy heaps of side orders, but the fish is also excellent
- it is located next to the Sava River after all. Try to visit on
Saturday nights, when there are themed culinary nights
with live music and the doors stay open late.QL-1, Dunajska 270, tel. +386 (0)1 589 01 28/+386 (0)51 348 994,
info@gpl.si, www.gostilna-stern.si. Open 08:00 - 22:00.
TAL
Za Pumpo
The creatively named Za Pumpo, which means behind
the gas station, is located (surprisingly) behind a petrol
station in the vicinity of several university faculties, and
consistently tasty food, generous portions and low prices
make it a popular choice with students and other locals
alike. The huge menu has something for everyone including Balkan and Italian classics as well as hearty Slovene
dishes, all complimented by a fine selection of quality
Slovenia wines. There are also some good looking breakfast offerings.QJ-4, Traka 46, tel. +386 (0)41 777 772,
zapumpo@siol.net. Open 07:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 10:00
- 22:00.
U
YO
L
L
N
CA
T
EA
AUTHENTIC BRAZILIAN
CHURRACARIA RESTAURANT
LJUBLJANA TRG MDB 1

www.brasil.si
00386 31 250 247
served straight from skewers - unlimited.
All you can eat self-service from salad,
43
Restaurants
Restaurants
in to sample a few glasses of wine.QD-3, Ribji Trg 6, tel.
+386 (0)31 764 063, info@tabar.si, www.tabar.si. Open
Mon, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 00:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 01:00.
Closed Sun. PTJA6UGBW
Middle Eastern
ribji trg 6 1000 ljubljana
l l
+ 386 0 31 764 063
TaBar_124x41.indd 1
Latin American
Casa Mulata
The dream-turned-reality of three of the most infectiously
passionate people weve met, the explosion of colour and
joy as you enter immediately opens up each sense. Classic
Brazilian (and Dominican) dishes are given new spins, with the
shared platter options particularly good value. An immense
buffet (it must be seen to be believed) is on offer during the
evening, and a lunch menu provides the perfect choices for
a light afternoon eat at a good price. The cocktails are perfect,
and we dont throw that word around lightly. With Latin music and dancing in tow, Casa Mulata is happiness within four
walls.QNazorjeva 4, tel. +386 (0)59 03 51 52, casamulata.
slovenija@gmail.com. Open 11:00 - 00:00, Fri 11:00 - 01:00,
Sat 16:30 - 01:00. Closed Sun. TJEBK
tabar.si
Rodizio do Brasil
23.01.14 20:46
Slovenias first Brazilian restaurant has quickly became
one of Ljubljanas top dining destinations since it opened
in December. Modelled after Brazils traditional rodzio
style steakhouse restaurants, patrons pay a fixed price
for unlimited quantities of high quality grilled meat that
is brought to the table on large skewers hot from the grill
and accompanied by a huge selection of hot and cold
dishes from the buffet (many of which are even vegetarian). For the full on Brazilian experience come on a night
when theres a dance performance and order a few extra
rounds of Caipirinhas - just make sure to reserve a table in
advance.QTrg Mladinskih Delovnih Brigad 1, tel. +386
(0)40 316 341/+386 (0)31 250 247, info@brasil.si, www.
brasil.si. Open 11:00 - 23:00, Fri 11:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. . PJAEB
Mediterranean
Allegria
Tucked away in a courtyard behind a large terrace, this
long-running Ljubljana eatery prepares exemplary Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on dishes from Slovenias
coastal regions. Seasonal specials are regularly offered, and
the entire menu is naturally complimented by an excellent
wine list. The steaks and homemade gnocchi are among
our favourite dishes, but for something really unique try the
Kraki risotto, which is made using Jamar sir (a cheese aged
in a cave 70m underground).QC-3, Nazorjeva 8, tel. +386
(0)1 426 74 02, info@allegria.si, www.allegria.si. Open
11:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. (7-19).
PTJA6UEGBSW
TaBar
This ultra-modern new concept restaurant and bar combines Slovenian-style tapas with an excellent selection
of wines from some of the countrys top producers. The
menu has a strong Mediterranean influence, featuring
everything from tender prosciutto and salami to roasted
octopus and baked shrimp - all prepared with fresh local ingredients in an open kitchen, where you can watch
the magic happen if youre lucky enough to find an open
seat. For those adverse to making decisions, there are
three- and five-course tasting menus selected by the chef
(our preferred option), while many patrons simply drop
Skuhna
A truly unique culinary and social venture, Skuhna is the
result of a joint-effort by two Slovene non-profits to help
better integrate the countrys vibrant migrant community,
while at the same time offering locals the opportunity to experience diverse foods and cultures from around the world.
The project initially provided training for several full-time
chefs, who now organise an ongoing programme of lunches, dinners, workshops and catering services. You can taste
authentic cuisine from around the world for lunch everyday,
while on Saturday evenings dinner is available, which is usually accompanied by music, presentations or other cultural
elements. A full calendar of upcoming events and lots of
other info can be found on the official website and Facebook page.QE-3, Trubarjeva 56, tel. +386 (0)41 339 978,
skuhna@skuhna.si, www.skuhna.si. PTJE
Yildiz Han
Set on the ground floor a beautiful century-old villa just
behind castle hill, the citys only Turkish restaurant is just a
few minutes walk from the old town, yet is still something
of an undiscovered gem for most residents and tourists
alike. Decorated in traditional Turkish style, with low tables
and cushy seating, carpets on the walls and Ataturk above
the door, as impressive as it all looks, the food still manages to exceed expectations. An already lengthy menu
is supplemented with regional specialities on a regular
basis, and complimented with a surprisingly good selection of Turkish wines. At the weekends diners are treated
to bellydancing shows, and a resident fortune-teller is often on hand to read what your coffee grounds tell about
your future. Its always a good idea to book ahead.QE-5,
Karlovka 19, tel. +386 (0)1 426 57 17, yildiz@siol.net,
www.yildiz-han.com. Open 13:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun.
(6-12). PJAUGBS
Pizza
Foculus
Magnificently decorated once youre through the slightly
out of place automatic doors, with autumn leaves painted
on the vaulted ceilings and red, yellow and orange plates
built into the roof of the large wood-fired pizza oven.
The large and busy Foculus specialises in 66 varieties of
pizza, including 20 for vegetarians and eight with seafood.
The salads are also particularly good. The place can get
rather hectic in the evenings, so dont be surprised if you
have to wait a few minutes for a table. It was also recently
named Best Pizzeria in Ljubljana by IYP readers.QC-4,
Gregorieva 3, tel. +386 (0)1 421 92 95, foculus@siol.
net, www.picerija.net/foculus.htm. Open 11:00 - 24:00.
(5.70-8.40). PTJAUGBS
45
Ljubljana OLD TOWN
Ljubljana EXPERIENCE
3
6
Ajdovina 1
a ce
sta
page 41
Slov
ensk
Marley and Me
2
Preernov trg
Mestni trg
est
ac
v
arje
b
Tru
page 62
Prena 6
6
2
ca
ljani
Ljub
page 62
page 52
resn
i trg
trg
ces
ska
Mestni
page 60
Funicular
1
8
Turjaka 1
trg
TODOV TRG
Stari
ME
Ljubljanica
page 68
0,
LJ
I
CIR
01 232 22 92
www.oliviers-co.si
Slo
ven
SLO
LJ
6,
A CESTA
NSK
4
VE
ta
Ciri
rg 3
ov t
tod
l Me
trg
Kong
Krekov
Presernov Trg
page 57
page 58
Patrick's Irish Pub
NUK
Restaurants
Restaurants
Parma
A quirky little one, this. As well as a couple of ordinary tables, most dining here is done at the large bar from where
the food is cooked and served. Find an empty stool, make
your order and away you go. And while youre waiting for
your pizza to arrive, take a look at the large photographs
on the wall of the construction of the area youre eating in.
Find it hidden away down the stairs and on the right at the
southern end of Maxi Market.QB/C-4, Trg Republike 2, tel.
+386 (0)1 426 82 22, foculus@siol.net, www.picerija.net/
parma.htm. Open 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00. Closed
Sun. (3.90-6.20). TJA6ULGBXSW
Pizzeria Osmica
Located on the pedestrian street that runs parallel to opova,
Osmica is essentially the pizza annex of the longer-running
Allegria in the courtyard around the corner. The menu boasts
over two dozen pizzas, and several choice of salad, lasagna
and tortillas are also on offer in the comfortable rustic setting
- think lots of wood and exposed stone with an open kitchen.
We stop by for lunch or grab a pizza to go on the way home
quite often, but if we were forced to choose a favourite itd
have to be the Tartufo, which comes heaped with prosciutto,
salami, parmesan and of course truffle oil.QC-3, Nazorjeva
8, tel. +386 (0)1 426 58 72, info@osmica.si, www.osmica.
si. Open 11:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.
(5.50-8.30). PTJA6UBSW
Quick Eats
Krojaka 8, 1000 Ljubljana

t : 00386 / 1 25 11 749 e: info@staramacka.si www.staramacka.si
*** Odprto: pon-ned 09-03 ***
Burger King
After being more or less raised on fast food in the US, we
consider ourselves something of an expert on the subject,
and as such we can say unequivocally that Burger King
easily comes out ahead when compared to any other internationally known burger joint (not naming any names
of course). If you dont believe us, head to the food court
on the first floor of CityPark and try a Whopper for yourself.
QM-2, martinska 152 (Citypark), tel. +386 (0)1 520 01
47. Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 - 21:00, Sun 09:00 15:00. (2.80-5.80). PTAULGS
BUREK
Burek is the universal and ubiquitous Balkan snack that
simply has to be tried when youre in the region. From
the Turkish word bur, meaning to twist, burek comes
in all manner of shapes and sizes but are essentially a
baked filo pastry snack with a savoury filling, usually
flavoured minced beef, cheese and/or spinach, best
enjoyed with the addition of lashings of plain yoghurt.
Burek can be found ready to eat, cheap and piping hot
in bakeries and speciality places operating out of little
more than an open window, especially around the bus
station. Variations on the burek theme can be found as
far and wide as Israel, where they have the burekas, and
even in Lithuania where they eat something not unlike
a burek that they call a eburekai. Enjoy.
Burrito Loco
The concept of this newly opened Mexican takeaway in the
centre of town will be immediately familiar to anyone who
has eaten at one of the widely popular Chipotle Mexican
Grills whilst in the United States, namely, huge missionstyle burritos prepared to order with your choice of fresh
ingredients. The menu also includes quesadillas, soft tacos
and salads, but for us the real standout here is the pulled
pork burrito with guacamole. If you like what you taste,
ask for a stamp card - collect ten stamps and the eleventh
burrito is free.QC-4, Slovenska 6, tel. +386 (0)31 897 694,
www.facebook.com/burritolocoLJ. Open 10:00 - 22:00,
Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. . JNS
Hot Horse
A true Ljubljana institution, a stop at Hot Horse is a must for all
first-time and returning visitors. The legendary horseburger
is not only an original Slovenian creation, but is also healthy,
low in fat and rich in protein and iron, and the menu now
boasts a wider variety than ever before, including wraps,
steaks and hot dogs, all of which come with your choice of
toppings and condiments. Hot Horse was also twice selected
by our readers as the Best Fast Food restaurant in Ljubjana.
Visit their large modern kiosk near the arena in Tivoli Park, or
their other outlets in BTC and Rudnik near Rutar.QB-2, Tivoli
Park, tel. +386 (0)1 521 14 27, master@hot-horse.si, www.
hot-horse.si. Open 09:00 - 06:00. J6UBXS
Klobasarna
Its not often you find a restaurant where the menu consists largely of one item, but when the famed Kranjska
Klobasa is the dish in question then thats really all you
need. Taking its name from the city of Kranj, this hearty
sausage was at the centre of so-called klobasa wars between Slovenia and Austria (and later Croatia) over the
rights to the EU-protected name. History and politics
aside, this trendy takeaway opposite the Cathedral is the
best place to taste what all the ado is about. They also
serve the traditional Slovene dishes jota and riet, hearty
stews that go great with the famed sausage.QCirilMetodov 15, tel. +386 (0)51 605 017, info@klobasarna.
si, www.klobasarna.si. Open 10:00 - 23:00, Sun 10:00
- 15:00. JS
Many more Restaurants online at

49
Restaurants
Restaurants
Loving Hut
The worlds fastest growing (and perhaps only) international vegan fast food chain, Loving Hut has finally opened
an outlet in the city centre two years after setting up a
takeaway stand in Mestni Log. Located opposite the main
bus and train station, stepping inside this oasis of peacefulness and serenity makes us feel healthier and more relaxed
before we even order. Offering an assortment of vegan
dishes, including surprisingly delicious kebaps, burgers
and Wiener schnitzel, Loving Hut is an attractive alternative to the usual fast food options found in these parts
- even for non-vegans like us.QD-1, Trg Osvobodilne
Fronte 14, tel. +386 (0)68 126 970, lovinghutljubljana@
gmail.com, www.lovinghut.si. Open 07:30 - 22:30, Sat
10:00 - 22:30, Sun 10:00 - 21:00. .
World Cuisine
Bazilika Bistro proves that healthy organic food can be quite tasty
SurfnFries
We recently began noticing people carrying around boxes of fries (or chips as we would say) in the city centre,
and it turns out that this place is the culprit. Were still
not sure where the surf part of the name comes in (as
seafood is not on the menu), but they do offer heaping
portions of fries prepare in a variety of ways and accompanied by a selection of sauces, as well as some deep
fried chicken dishes to satisfy the non-vegetarians. Open
late, because everything fried tastes better after a night
of drinking.QC-3, Plenikov Trg. Open 06:00 - 04:00,
Sat 08:00 - 04:00, Sun 16:00 - 24:00. 2.10-4.50.
ak
Located under the hulking Ajdovina building just off
a busy crossroads, this French-style bakery whips up
tasty snacks that, judging by the constant lines, tempt
a fair number of workers from the surrounding offices to
extend their smoke breaks. Their freshly-prepared viennoiseries, gourmet bread, sandwiches and salads cost
slightly more than the pre-packaged brands found in
all the supermarkets, but are well-worth the premium.
QC-2, Dalmatinova 2, tel. +386 (0)1 230 84 74, fs-lj@
siol.net, www.pekarna-zak.si. Open 06:30 - 19:00, Sat
06:30 - 13:00. Closed Sun. 0.50 - 3.00. JS
Many more Restaurants online at

Vegetarian
Bazilika Bistro
A Mecca for lovers of fresh, healthy, organic foods, Bazilika
is located in a beautiful high-ceilinged space in the city
centre opposite the Presidential Palace and just around
the corner from the Academy of Fine Arts. While countless
proprietors claim to use only fresh locally-sourced ingredients, Bazilika actually posts photos of daily visits to local
farmers, markets and gardens to their social media pages,
assuring patrons that the various sandwiches, sweet and
savoury pies, salads, soups, smoothies and other vegetarian and vegan-friendly treats that they turn out are
as authentic as they are delectable. Daily 3-course lunch
specials are written on the roll of brown recycled paper
behind the counter.QB-4, Preernova 15, tel. +386 (0)1
244 62 75, druzina@bazilika.si, www.bazilika.si. Open
07:00 - 23:00. Closed Sat, Sun. JABSW
NEW
The 5 Kitchen & Bar
Found just a few steps from the Central Market and Dragon
Bridge, The 5 is unlike any other restaurant in Ljubljana. The
concept behind the place is to bring the best tastes from
five continents to the same kitchen (hence the name), and
the food, atmosphere and service are all roundly excellent.
The menu is limited to a handful of exquisitely prepared
and presented seasonal dishes, with daily offers displayed
on the chalkboard above the bar. And speaking of the bar,
the unique house cocktails all come highly recommended.
QE-4, Strelika 22, tel. +386 (0)59 050 133, social@
the5.si, the5.kitchen. Open 10:00 - 22:00. Closed Sat,
Sun. .
Around Ljubljana
If youre looking to get out of town and enjoy a traditional
home-cooked meal in the countryside - and we highly suggest that you do - the restaurants listed below are a great
place to start!
Gostilna Pr Kopa
A special intuitive attachment exists in an individual towards
home cooking. Creating this kind of atmosphere in a public
space takes some work, but Gostilna Pr Kopa in Brezovica
have managed just that. The continually evolving family
enterprise has taken what was happening in their kitchen
into the public, and the results are clear to see. Traditional
Slovene cuisine is the order of the day, with a very affordable
a la carte menu to boot.QTraka 418, Brezovica, tel. +386
(0)1 365 30 66, info@pr-kopac.com, www.pr-kopac.com.
Open 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
Stay up-to-date
facebook.com/
inyourpocket
OPEN
UNTIL
4AM
51
Cafs
Cafs
Caffe Promenada
Having a drink along the banks of the Ljubljanica is a quintessential Ljubljana experience, and one of the best spots for it is
at Caf Promenada just across the river from the central market. Sitting at Promenada represents the citys laid back lifestyle at its best - relax over a morning coffee or enjoy a glass of
wine in the evening while watching the river and pedestrians
flow by.QPetkovkovo Nabreje 9, tel. +386 (0)8 383 10 82.
Enjoying a relaxing coffee along the Ljubljanica is every Slovenes god-given right
Bar Platana
Occupying some prime real estate on Kongresni trg, Platana
offer everything you would expect from a classy bar and
bistro in the centre of town. Superb coffee, freshly-squeezed
juices and a variety of a wines and champagnes are on offer among other things, but it really is the shaded outdoor
seating that is the big pull. We cant think of a better place to
sit and watch the beautiful people stroll by on an afternoon.
A variety of breakfasts, snacks, sandwiches and cigars are
also available.QKongresni trg 7, tel. +386 (0)1 251 35 97,
mirjam.jurca@gmail.com. Open 06:00 - 01:00.
Bazilika Shop & Cafe
Right next to the courthouse and in one the busiest areas of Ljubljana, this caf is one of the closest things youll
find to an oasis in the city. As soon as you enter, you feel
how you leave the bustle and noise of the city behind
and are welcomed by very soothing music and dcor. A
great place to come and study, use your laptop or just surf
the net. Try the excellent coffee and sandwiches. Great
service too.QD-2, Mikloieva 22, tel. +386 (0)41 530
539, druzina@bazilika.si, www.bazilika.si. Open 07:00 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun. PJSW
Caf Plato
A stylish caf offering a wide selection of great ice creams,
cakes and tiny tarts in a unique glass-walled space right in
the centre of town, its outdoor seating area is a fine place
for some people watching on a sunny afternoon. Theres
also a restaurant upstairs, so if youre feeling like a bit
more than a snack you may want to inquire about whats
on offer that day.QC-2, Ajdovina 1, tel. +386 (0)1 230

84 80, plato@siol.net, plato.si. Open 07:00 - 23:00, Sat
08:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. (2-3). PTJA6G
BKSW
Coffee & Ice Cream

Cacao
Boasting an unbeatable location just steps
from Ljubljanas famed
Preernov Trg, Cacao is
the citys top destination
for ice cream lovers - overwhelmingly voted as having the best ice cream in
town in each and every In
Your Pocket Best of Summertime competition to
date. Its large tree-shaded
terrace along the banks of the Ljublajanica also gets
top marks for atmosphere, while the laid-back chocolate brown interior is a great place to chill out with a
mouthwatering slice of gourmet cake or freshly prepared fruit smoothie. One of our, and seemingly everyone elses, favourites.QD-3, Petkovkovo Nabreje 3,
tel. +386 (0)1 430 17 71, info@cacao.si, www.cacao.
si. Open 08:00 - 22:00. Summertime 08:00 - 00:00.
PTJA6UGBSW
Flancat
This trendy little caf bar is the newest edition to the
Petkovkovo promenade, one of Ljubljanas favourite drinking spots. Flancat is not alone in offering a pleasant riverside
setting with the castle as a backdrop, though it stands out
from the crowd with a solid drinks list featuring quality Slovenian wines and good beers including draught Weihenstephaner - very tasty beer from the worlds oldest brewery. A
great selection of cocktails is available as well as Flancats
speciality and namesake sweet - a delicate Slovenian pastry which goes fabulously with coffee.QD-3, Petkovkovo
Nabreje 23, flancat@siol.net. Open 08:00 - 23:00.
Kapuciner
Sitting alone on the south side of Kongresni Trg, Kapuciner
is a relaxing spot to grab a drink especially when the sun
is shining down on the large promenade. This sleek all day
caf and bar satisfies caffeine cravings all day long, whilst
they also have a selection of tasty sweet treats. Kapuciners
drinks list is better than most around town with some fine
local wines and a few good beers to choose from.QC-4,
Kongresni Trg 15, tel. +386 (0)83 815 604, kapuciner@
markov.si, www.kapuciner.si. Open 07:00 - 24:00, Sun
08:00 - 22:00.
Kavarna Mozaik
Tucked away in an easy-to-miss square in ika, Kavarna
Mozaik is most definitely a mixture of modern interior and
quality married to old-fashioned tranquillity. In a world of
cafs open to ungodly hours to maximise profit through
alcohol, the slow pace Mozaik offers really appeals. This
isnt to say they are lacking in drinks of course, with a fine
selection of international beers sidling up to excellent Illy
coffee and an abundance of top quality cakes and snacks,
all provided by the oh-so-friendly staff. Well worth the
trek out.Q15 Komendanta Staneta, tel. +386 (0)59 06 10
66, info@kavarna-mozaik.si, www.kavarna-mozaik.si.

Open 07:00 - 22:00, Sun 09:00 - 22:00.
Kavarna Rog
Kavarna Rog is one of our favourite cafs around - and not
only because its a 30 second walk from our flat. Located
along the Ljubljanica below the old Rog bicycle factory,
the caf is one of the few places in town where you can
find a proper breakfast, and the lengthy menu of gourmet
soups, sandwiches, salads and desserts (not to mention
wines) makes it a popular lunchtime stop. It stays open
late as well, and the dark and moody modern interior is
perhaps best suited for a drink than anything else.QF-3,
Petkovkovo Nabreje 67, tel. +386 (0)1 6200 260, www.
kavarna-rog.si. Open 07:00 - 24:00. (3-9). Holidays
08:00-24:00. PTJAUBW
The best coffee

in Ljubljana :)
fresh sendwiches, croissants,
fresh cakes, selected wines
Coffeeshop Kapuciner
Kongresni trg 15, Ljubljana
www.kapuciner.si
E-mail: kapuciner@markov.si
www.facebook.com/kapuciner.kavarna
Open: mon. - sat. 7.00-24.00, sun. 8.00-22.00

53
Cafs
Nightlife
Coffee & Cakes
A Slice of Culinary Heaven.

Daily fresh and with contemporary
recipe, Cake Ljubljana is made from
traditional Slovenian ingredients.
Cake Ljubljana is one of the Tastes of
Ljubljana- dishes typical for the capital
of Slovenia. Bon appetit-Dober tek!
www.facebook.com/TortaLjubljana
info@tortaljubljana.si
+386 (0)41 272 433 / + 386 (0)30 300 618
Le Petit Caf
Close your eyes, and try to imagine a caf called Le Petit
that happens to be sitting on a square named after the
French Revolution. Le Petit caf will match your imaginings and then some. Our first thought was adorable, but
there is so much more to it than this. An excellent choice
for breakfast or an afternoon coffee, Parisian chic abounds
with added elegance and grace, whether you choose to
sit outside or in the none-more-romantic inside.QC-4, Trg
Francoske Revolucije 4, tel. +386 (0)1 251 25 75/+386
(0)51 605 400, info@lepetit.si, www.lepetit.si. Open
07:30 - 01:00. PTJA6UGBSW
Frozen Yogurt
Fresh Point
Recently opened on Mikloieva, Fresh Point is a darling little caf dealing in frozen yogurt, and boy is it
good. The bright interior exudes joy, from where you
have a choice of four yogurt flavours to be enhanced
by a gloriously huge selection of toppings, with
everything from fresh fruits to candy to chocolate
and everything else in between. Theres almost too
much choice, which is not something were going to
complain about. Delightful staff rounds off this little
charmer.QMikloieva 7a, tel. +386 (0)51 37 37 95,
www.fresh-point.si. Open 07:30 - 20:00, Fri 07:30 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 21:00, Sun 14:00 - 20:00.
Fetiche Patisserie
Summer time is a time where our sweet tooth is given full
freedom to flourish, and were basically saying that summer equals ice cream. Ljubljana is full of good ice cream
options, and Fetiche Patisserie on Cankarjevo nabreje
is without doubt one of the best. An impressively wide
selection is enhanced by the dedication to natural and
genuine flavour. Youll find nothing less than 100 per cent
fruit here. Fetiche also possess a mouth-watering array of
sweets that are as good as impossible to resist. Indulge
yourself, it is summer after allQD-4, Cankarjevo Nabreje
25, tel. +386 (0)40 70 03 70, www.fetichepatisserie.
com. Open 09:00 - 01:00.
Sladkarnica in Marmeladnica Lotos
We always thought cupcakes were more style than substance,
but the Lotos sweets and jam shop on Breg have managed
to combine both, offering gorgeous cupcakes which taste
great, each spiralling high with icing or cream and hiding a delectable filling. A family run business, Lotos do things the old
fashion way using no artificial preservatives or colours, whilst
its jams (more than 25 varieties!) are jam packed with fruit. Also
on offer are baked goods (sweet and savoury), fruit salad, frozen yogurt topped with Lotos fabulous jam and decaf coffee
to go which despite lacking caffeine tastes great.QBreg 16,
sladkarnicainmarmeladnicalotos@gmail.com. Open 10:00
- 21:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00.
Torta Ljubljana
This takeaway cake shop in the Plenik Arcade has much
more to it than meets the eye. To begin with its eponymous
Ljubljana Cake is the only sweet we know of in town that
comes with its own creation myth, which involves a fickle
lord living in Ljubljana Castle, a beautiful daughter waiting
to be wed, and a plucky local chef who concocts the perfect
recipe. The retro-style cake has been recreated using only
typical Slovenian ingredients (including gluten free 100%
buckwheat flour) and can be purchased in several sizes, all
of which come in custom designed reusable packaging. The
cakes can now also be found at Kavarna SEM, Nebotinik
and Bar Kofi Plac at BTC.QD-3, Adami-Lundrovo Nabreje
1, tel. +386 (0)30 300 618/+386 (0)41 272 433, info@
tortaljubljana.si. Open 08:00 - 16:00, Sun 09:00 - 14:00.
As Aperitivo is perfect for a business lunch, or an afterwork drink
Bars
13
The narrowness of the building could have been considered
an issue, but the team behind Caf 13 have remarkably turned
it into a plus. Tiled floors, oak walls and seating carved into
those very walls give the feeling of being in a much more
spacious place than is true, and the display of sweets in the
centre will convince even those without a sweet tooth. If this
isnt enough, the large terrace provides another option.QC-4,
Trg Francoske Revolucije 5, tel. +386 (0)1 320 94 82. Open
07:30 - 01:00. PA6BW
As Aperitivo
Now housed in slick ultra-modern premises that have
been the recipient of numerous design awards, this longrunning lounge bar is almost as much of a Ljubljana institution as its namesake restaurant next door. A top
destination for the business set, Aperitivo is definitely one
of the citys more glamorous settings in which to grab a
drink, the whole place turning into a large open-air terrace
during the warmer months. Live DJs keep the party going most nights, while the Italian head bartender prepares
some masterful creations for thirsty patrons. Find it in a secluded courtyard just off of Preernov Trg.QC-3, opova
5 (Knafljev Prehod), tel. +386 (0)1 425 88 22, gostilna.
as@siol.net, www.gostilnaas.si. Open 10:00 - 01:00.
J6UBXW
Ftiche
A dark and moody, space-age cocktail bar on two levels
complete with everything a cocktail bar should possess.
Sit in the company of wannabe supermodels and young
boys with their expensive trousers falling down and gaze in
wonder at the vast model pictures, retro furniture and the
obligatory huge mirror ball. The cocktail menu is perhaps
the largest in town, and all are made using only premium
spirits and fresh fruit. Theres outside seating near the river
too, and a French style patisserie next door.QD-3, Cankarjevo Nabreje 25, tel. +386 (0)40 70 03 70, www.fetiche.
si. Open 09:00 - 01:00. PJA6GBXW
Student Cafs
KM Caf
With its rather garish sofas, KM (pronounced Ku - Mu - Sh)
might not jump out as an obvious breakfast choice, but as
you tuck into your eggs and bacon youll be more than
convinced. The unique recycled newspaper walls offset
the sofas, making for a fascinating interior. The breakfasts
can also be taken away, but it is always recommended to
sit inside and enjoy, with your choice from its large selection of coffees, excellent smoothies and delicious cocktails.
QTraka 2, tel. +386 (0)1 425 74 80, www.klubkms.si.
Open 07:00 - 05:00. Closed Sun.
55
VANDER BUBBLES copy 1 9/25/14 10:18 PM Page 1
Nightlife
Clubs
En Pub
If youd like to experience the best of Belgrades legendary
party scene without the hassle of a ten-hour train ride south,
then En Pub in ika is one of the best options for an all-night
Balkan-style party in the Slovene capital. Friday nights feature
live bands and DJs playing a mix of fun Balkan music and international hits, while Saturdays see Serbian bands and DJs
come to town. Both nights just about guarantee a packed
house dancing away until the place finally closes at six in the
morning. For a totally different take on Ljubljana, En Pub simply
has to be experienced to be believed.QH-1, Celovka 150, tel.
+386 (0)1 514 11 27, info@enpub.si, www.enpub.si. Open
07:00 - 23:00, Fri 07:00 - 06:00, Sat 09:00 - 06:00, Sun 09:00 23:00. PTA6UGBXW
Rollbar-Karting BTC
Another reason to visit the huge BTC complex is this extraordinary place. Taking the gimmick of the race-car-theme-drinking-hole to its logical conclusion, this subterranean boozer not
only comes complete with enough racing paraphernalia to
start your very own F1 museum, its actually got a go-kart racing circuit. There are no drink-driving laws here, just a bunch
of electric go-carts and a hangar-size space to wiggle them
through. Not quite as tame as it sounds, these go-carts when
running on full power have a top speed of 120km/h, restricted
for obvious reasons here to a more sensible albeit still stupidly
fast 65km/h.QM-2, martinska 152 (BTC Hala 18), tel. +386
(0)1 585 25 70/+386 (0)51 603 333, www.indoor-karting.
com. Open 07:30 - 23:00, Fri 07:30 - 24:00, Sat 08:00 - 24:00,
Sun 08:00 - 22:00. AUEGBXW
mauc
Ask any tuned-in local to make a list of their favourite bars
and theyre almost certain to put this place on the list. Covered in quality graffiti outside and always featuring a huddle of interesting-looking individuals smoking suspiciously
large cigarettes by the entrance, the exterior is but a mild
prelude to whats inside. A smallish L-shaped bar is packed
day and night with more strange characters amidst an interior design scheme straight from the pages of a Manga
comic. Excellent for coffee or something a little stronger.
Highly recommended.QB-4, Rimska 21, tel. +386 (0)1 251
03 24, zmauc@siol.net. Open 07:30 - 01:00, Sat 10:00 01:00, Sun 18:00 - 01:00. PJA6GB
Klub K4
Twice voted the best club in Ljubljana by In Your Pocket
readers, if youre staying in a hotel in this part of town and
your bed starts bouncing across the room in the middle
of the night, the chances are the culprit can be found inside Klub K4. A very student-oriented club indeed, its hot
and sweaty and the DJs play some of the weirdest, hardest stuff in the country. Brilliant stuff. Klub K4 also offers
Roza (Pink) Party nights for the gay community. Check out
their Facebook page or website for detailed programme
info.QB-2, Kersnikova 4, tel. +386 (0)40 212 292, info@
klubk4.org, www.klubk4.org. Open , Wed 23:00 - 04:00,
Thu 21:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 23:00 - 06:00. PJAG
KM Hangover
Well, what would you expect from a club with such a name?
Subtlety isnt sitting too high on the menu, but the masses of
revellers that pack it out arent going to grumble about that.
With a totally updated schedule of events prepped for winter,
it covers all bases. Urban genres are king, with jungle, reggae,
DnB and much more complimented by an impressive bassheavy sound that will shake you to the bones. Dancing is your
OPEN
UNTIL
4AM
EVERY DAY
DJ
Nightlife
CM
MY
CY CMY
If youd like to party well into the morning, En Pub in ika is one of
your top choices
only hope. The club has also recently launched Hangover Internet Radio, closely tied to the club and featuring live broadcasts from both local and international guests.QTraka 2, tel.
+386 (0)1 425 74 80, www.klubkms.si. Open 22:00 - 05:00.
Closed Sun. Radio weblink - www.hangoveradio.com.
Pubs
Parlament Pub
Knowing neither whether its a caf or a bar, this peculiar
oddity with its books on the shelves, shady characters and
(youve guessed it) students is nonetheless a popular stop
for the heavy drinking younger crowd. Known for cheap
beer and cocktails (with 3 of the latter had for the price
of 2), and lively international parties almost every night,
its a great place to both start or end an evening out. The
entrance and terrace are at the back side of the building on
Plenikov Trg.QC-3, ubieva 1, tel. +386 (0)1 251 32 43.
Open 08:00 - 04:00. PJA6UEGBXW
Patricks Irish Pub
Ljubljanas quintessential Irish pub is popular with locals, expats and tourists alike, and over the years weve personally
spent many a night entertaining visitors, watching sports on
the big screen and generally drinking too much here. Theyve
got (arguably) the largest selection of beer in town, with some
90 varieties to choose from, and often host events such as live
Irish music concerts, pub quizzes and beer tastings. Find it
down a small cobbled alleyway just off Trubarjeva Ulica.QD-3,
Prena 6, tel. +386 (0)1 230 17 68/+386(0) 41 581 333, www.
irishpub-ljubljana.si. Open 17:00 - 01:00, Sat 12:00 - 01:00,
Sun 17:00 - 24:00. PTJA6EGSW
Wine Bars
Bubbles Champagne Bar
Okay, so the idea of a champagne bar conjures up images of
richer than rich oligarchs schmoozing, but let the addition of
the word bubbles put you at use. The former Vander Urbani
has transformed into a quality champagne bar that will force
you to rethink your preconceptions. With a great selection
of champagne, many available by the glass, as well as a large
variety of Slovene wines and not to mention some excellent
food, Bubbles is sure to be another must-go place in town.
QKrojaka 6-8, tel. +386 (0)1 200 90 00, info@vanderhotel.
com, vanderhotel.com.
57
Sightseeing
Sightseeing
top 10 sights
Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge) One of
the most photographed
sights in Ljubljana, Zmajski
Most, or Dragon Bridge, is
also one of our personal favourites, topped with four
ferocious dragons.QE-3,
Resljeva Cesta.
Kongresni Trg
Completely renovated
in 2011, Kongresni Trg is
home to some impressive buildings, and also
frequently hosts events.
The name is often used
by locals to refer to both
the square and the adjacent Zvezda Park.
The Pink Church, the Franciscan Church on Preernov trg is truly iconic
Ljubljana Castle is arguably the main attraction for visitors to the city, but all that lies beneath it from the Old
Town to Ljubljanas multitude of museums and galleries
are more than worthy of further investigation. The extraordinary combination of treats, from the architecture
of Joe Pleniks to the historic atmosphere of the Old
Town to the occasional blast-to-the-past burst of retroYugoslav city planning all work together in harmony to
create the most unique of cities.
Bridges
Tromostovje (Triple Bridge)
Perhaps Ljubljanas most characteristic structure(s), the
triple bridge is a curious merger of a 19th century road
bridge (itself replacing a medieval wooden bridge), with
two 1930s pedestrian bridges designed by Plenik, who
took the opportunity to do up the whole ensemble with
lamps and stone balustrades.QD-3.
Zmajski Most (Dragon Bridge)
Since it opened in 1901, Zmajski Most has been locked in a
fierce competition with the castle and the conspicuously
pink Franciscan Church for the title of Most Photographed
Sight in Ljubljana. At any given moment during daylight
hours (and only slightly less frequently at night) there is
sure to be at least a person or two clicking away at one of
the four large dragons guarding either side of the bridge
or the smaller griffins that adorn the bottom of its eight
lamp posts. Of course were no exception, as we still re58 Ljubljana In Your Pocket
member the fog shrouded photo we snapped on our first

trip to the city way back in the forgotten days of analogue
film. More recently some amateur artiste apparently felt
that the mythical beasts were lacking a certain je ne sais
quoi and took it upon themself to add a smattering of red
paint to their mouths and claws. The jury is still out on
whether or not this is an improvement but it does amuse
us whenever we walk past.QE-3, Resljeva Cesta.
Buildings
National University Library (Narodna in
Univerzitetna Knjinica) Known to locals by its
Slovene acronym NUK, the library was originally established by Empress Maria Theresa in 1774 and moved to
its current Plenik designed building in 1941. Aside from
serving as one of the countrys central educational and
cultural institutions - containing some 2.6 million volumes
-its also considered one of the prolific architects most
monumental works, and is a must see for visitors to Ljubljana. Highlights include the somewhat schizophrenic
brick and stone faade, the colonnaded central staircase
and the massive main reading room. A planned expansion
on nearby Zoisova Cesta has been in the works for nearly
20 years, but has been plagued by a host of problems most notably caused by the discovery of Roman ruins,
which is a surprisingly common occurrence in and around
the city.QC-4, Turjaka 1, tel. +386 (0)1 200 11 88, info@
nuk.uni-lj.si, www.nuk.uni-lj.si. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Sat
09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
Krianke
Consisting of several
venues located inside a
former monastery complex, the summer theatre is another Plenik
creation and one of the
most atmospheric concert venues in the city.
Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad)
Definitely the most
dominant sight in
the city, in addition
to its extremely photogenic appearance
Ljubljanas famed
castle is home to a
couple of excellent
restaurants, exhibitions spaces and
other venues. QD-4, Grajska Planota 1.
Metelkova Mesto
F-1/2, Masarykova
24. Since squatters
moved into these
former army barracks in 1993, Metelkova has slowly
grown into an established nightlife
centre with various
bars, clubs and arts
spaces. QF-1/2
Preernov Trg
Its no exaggeration
to say that Preeren
Sqaure is not
only the centre of
Ljubljana, but truly
the spiritual centre
of the Slovene
nation - and more
practically the de
facto meeting point
in the city. QD-3, Preeren Square.
River Boat Cruises
Slowly meandering
through the old town,
the Ljubljanica river
offers an interesting
angle from which
to take in the many
sights, with a number
of tourist boats obligingly plying its waters.
Tivoli Park
Ljubljanas central
park, Tivoli offers
countless paths,
fields and play areas, as well as forest
trails on Ronik hill.
Facilities includes
sports centres and
a couple museums.
QA/B-2.
Tromostovje
(Triple Bridge)
Arguably Pleniks
most famous work
(though we would
argue otherwise),
the famed Triple
Bridge
connects
Preeren Square with
the old town on the other side of the river.QD-3.
Trnica
Ljubljanas large open-air
central market is at its liveliest on Saturday mornings,
when seemingly half of the
city comes here to buy a
weeks supply of fruit and
vegetables directly from
local farmers.
59
Sightseeing
Ljubljana castle
Perched on top of Castle Hill (Grajska Planota) and dominating the city skyline to the south, Ljubljanas magnificent castle stands on the site of several former defensive
buildings in a hilly area of land stretching away to the
south of the old town. The current ensemble of buildings
originates from necessary 16th-century reconstruction
work following the earthquake of 1511, with several later
additions.
The main points of interest for the visitor are the Outlook
Tower (Razgledni Stolp), built in the 19th century and
raised a further 1.2m by the government in 1982. The
towers Virtual Castle screens a 12-minute film showing
the interesting and informative history of the castle.
On the same floor find a small door that takes you to the
top of the tower up some 100 red cast-iron steps, each individually decorated with an image of the tower and the
citys dragon. A door at the top leads to a small viewing
platform (not for the faint hearted) with wonderful views
of the city.
Underneath the tower, tucked away through a doorway in
the corner of the courtyard, is the diminutive St Georges
Chapel (Kapela sv Jurija), which is one of the oldest parts
of the castle. It was renovated in Baroque style and in
1747 decorated with the coats-of-arms of over sixty rulers, including Herman and Ulrich of Celje, Henrik of Gorizia
County, and Kritof Rauber, a bishop of Ljubljana.
A new and beautifully presented permanent Exhibition on Slovene History is now also open for visitors
- see more info under Museums & Galleries. The castle
also has a small art gallery featuring temporary exhibitions, a caf, restaurant and souvenir shop. Its also
a popular place for local weddings, and during the
summer puts on concerts and, in July, hosts a popular outdoor cinema. To reach it, several small paths
lead up from the old town, or take the funicular next
to the Puppet Theatre and open market.QD-4, Grajska Planota 1, tel. +386 (0)1 306 42 93, info-center@
ljubljanskigrad.si, www.ljubljanskigrad.si. October
- March 10:00 - 21:00, April-September 09:00-23:00.
Full combined ticket 5-8, half combined ticket 36, Guided tour 6-10. Special discounts for families.
Sightseeing
Cemeteries
ale Cemetery (Pokopalie ale) Built on the
site of a much earlier cemetery attached to the neighbouring (and still standing) Holy Cross Church, whats arguably
Pleniks Ljubljana masterpiece was completed in 1940. The
grand arched entrance complete with stark white colonnades supposedly represents the gateway between the
lands of the living and the dead. Between them and the
cemetery itself are a series of peculiar buildings, chapels
and monuments including the ale funeral home. Architectural styles abound, reflecting Pleniks vision of equality
among religions. The cemetery itself, once you get there, is
a pleasure to behold and is worthy of a good hours stroll.
The final resting place of many Slovenian greats including Plenik himself, also find a small area given over to the
Jewish population of the city.QL/M-2, Med Hmeljniki 2,
tel. +386 (0)1420 17 00, info@zale.si, www.zale.si. Open
07:00 - 19:00. April-September 07:00-21:00.
Churches
Cathedral (Stolnica Sv. Nikolaja) With its classic twin towers and trademark single, weather-worn green
dome, the citys cathedral, more properly known as St Nicholas Church, encapsulates everything that is Ljubljana. Small
and interesting, but not too exciting at first glance, a longer
look at its history and finer details reveals its hidden charm and
beauty. Built on the site of a much earlier church, the cathedrals main structure and appearance dates from the first half
of the 18th century. Inside the Baroque masterpiece is a cavalcade of classic creams and golds, littered with extraordinarily
detailed frescoes and possessing that calming feeling that
only a great church can bring.QD-3, Dolniarjeva 1, tel. +386
(0)1234 26 70, lj-stolnica@rkc.si, lj-stolnica.rkc.si.
Franciscan Church (Franikanski Samostan) Built in an instantly recognisable, mildly swirly
Baroque fashion, Ljubljanas mid-16th-century Franciscan
Church dominates Preernov Trg like a big pink birthday
cake. Part of a larger complex with an additional Franciscan monastery, if youre lucky enough to find the doors
unlocked expect a few treats inside including Robbas
18th-century altar, some charming frescoes dating from
100 years or so later and a chapel notable for containing a
cross designed by none other than Joe Plenik. For those
who dont appreciate the finer points of ecclesiastic architecture, the front steps do at least provide a nice place to
sit and watch the world go by on a gloriously sunny day.
QD-3, Preernov Trg 4, tel. +386 (0)1242 93 00.
Museums & Galleries

City Museum (Mestni Muzej Ljubljana)
A magnificent museum run by a team of historians who
know how to show people a good time, showcasing Ljubljana in all its good and bad colours throughout history.
Featuring both permanent and temporary exhibitions,
this is the best place in town for a crash-course in city
history. Find scale models of unfulfilled Plenik creations,

elaborate costumes, old photographs and much more
besides. Check out the fabulous little website for upcoming exhibitions.QC-4, Gosposka 15, tel. +386 (0)1241 25
00, info@mestnimuzej.si, www.mestnimuzej.si. Open
10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00. Closed Mon. Admission 4/2,50. English-language guided tours last Sun
at 11:00.
Museum of Contemporary Art (Muzej
Sodobne Umetnosti Metelkova) Along with
the Slovene Ethnographic Museum and a branch of the
National Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art
rounds out Ljubljanas newly christened Museum Quarter
located between Metelkova and Tabor in the centre of the
city. Nearly two years of renovations has transformed the
former administrative building into the citys most dynamic arts space, with rooms of all shapes and sizes situated
around a vaulting central atrium. The museum is focussed
on works from the 1960s to the present day, and boasts
a permanent collection devoted to Eastern Europes
postwar avant garde movement, as well as a selection of
works from its sister institution, the Museum of Modern
Art. Definitely a must-see for art fans.QF-2, Maistrova 3,
info@mg-lj.si, www.mg-lj.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed
Mon. Admission 5 adults, 2.50 students/pensioners,
3.50 groups.
ljubljana zoo
Ljubljana Zoo (ivalski Vrt)
Located to the west of the city centre, and surrounded
by the natural forests at the edge of Ronik hill, the zoo
is easily reached by public transport (bus 18), taxi (34) or on foot (25-35 minutes). Thanks to its position it
stays refreshing cool here during the summer months,
and is completely insulated from the noise and commotion of the city throughout the year.QI-3, Vena
Pot 70, tel. +386 (0)1 244 21 88, info@zoo.si, www.
zoo.si. Open daily 09:00-16:00 in Jan-Feb, 09:0017:00 in Mar & Oct, 09:00-18:00 in Apr & Sept, and
09:00-19:00 May-Aug. Admission 7 for adults, 6
student/seniors, 4-5 children, 2 persons with disabilities, 1.5 dogs. Free for children under 2.
urbana card
Urbana Ljubljana Tourist Card

Rated as one of Europes best city cards, Tourism
Ljubljanas Urbana offers free admission to all of the
citys main sights as well as free unlimited transport
LPPs extensive urban bus network. The card can be
purchased at most hotels and all three of Ljubljanas
Tourist Information Centres (on Adami-Lundrovo
Nabreje, at the main train station and on Krekov
Trg). Prices are 23/30/35 for 24/48/72 hours, and the
card - which contains RFID chip - is activated upon
its first use. Order online and save 10% of the regular
price!Qwww.visitljubljana.si. 24-hour card 23, 48hour card 30, 72-hour card 35.
Museum of Modern Art (Moderna Galerija) Following a lengthy renovation, the doors of Edvard
Ravnikars Plenik-inspired building have finally reopened
to the public. Continuing on from where the National
Gallery stops, the citys excellent Museum of Modern Art
houses a fine collection of Slovenian and international
20th-century art.QB-3, Tomieva 14, tel. +386 (0)12
41 68 00, info@mg-lj.si, www.mg-lj.si. Open Tues-Sun
10:00-18:00. Closed Mon and holidays. Admission 5
for adults, 2.50 for students/pensioners. No admission
fee first Sunday of every month.
National Museum of Slovenia (Narodni
Muzej) Found lurking inside another of the citys fine, late
19th-century neo-Renaissance buildings complete with
fine painted ceilings and elaborate sculptures on the stairs,
this is the oldest museum in country, founded way back in
1821. Permanent displays include an intriguing collection
dedicated to the Slovenians and the Slovenian language
alongside the usual bits and pieces of interest dug out of
the ground, plus a large ensemble of almost 200 examples
of carved stonework dating from Roman times excavated
in the city and surrounding regions.QB-3, Preernova 20,
tel. +386 (0)12 41 44 00, info@nms.si, www.nms.si. Open
10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 20:00. Admission 4-8.5.
61
Sightseeing
Tourist information
Ljubljana Tourist Information Centre
(TIC) A small but extremely well equipped resource
with plenty of maps, brochures galore in English, information about whats on in the city and a range of
information on what to see and do in the region. They
also organise tours, can help with accommodation,
and should be one of your first ports of call when you
arrive. Their website is one of the best weve seen in
Central Europe and is well worth further investigation. Friendly, informative staff too.QD-3, AdamiLundrovo Nabreje 2, tel. +386 (0)13 06 12 15, fax
+386 (0)13 06 12 04, tic@visitljubljana.si, www.
visitljubljana.com. Open daily Oct-May 08:00-19:00,
June-Sept 08:00-21:00.
Slovenian Tourist Information Center
(STIC) Ljubljanas central tourist office is a bit larger
and usually less crowded than the main branch located
a few hundred metres away opposite Preeren Square,
and they also helpfully stock heaps of maps, brochures
and general information for the entire country. Tickets
for most events in and around town can be purchased,
and the staff will gladly give you a run down of the
various tours and excursions on offer. Bicycle rentals
are also available for only 8 per day, and are a great
way to see more of the city.QC-3, Krekov Trg 10, tel.
+386 (0)1 306 45 75, fax +386 (0)1 306 45 80, stic@
visitljubljana.com, www.visitljubljana.com. Open
Oct-May 08:00-19:00, Sat, Sun & holidays 09:0017:00, Jun-Sept 08:00-21:00 daily.
Parks & Gardens

Tivoli Park
Tivoli is where the people of Ljubljana who dont leave the
city spend the weekend. Laid out in 1813 as a place for the
general health and recreation of the citys population, at
some five square kilometres, Ljubljanas gargantuan bucolic lung - literally two streets west of the city centre - is
so packed with good things to see and do that its almost
worth visiting the Slovenian capital just to come here.
Set amidst rolling hills, Tivoli Park is a pleasant mixture of
lawns (picnics encouraged: something of a shock in this
part of the world), pastures, wooded areas and fun adventure playgrounds for the kids (who will love the mini-golf
best of all). The best way to enjoy the park is by bike, and
bicycles are available for rent from various points throughout the park during the summer. You will need to leave ID
as a guarantee you will bring the bike back.
As well as its reputation as the top nature spot in the area,
Tivoli Park also houses a number of cultural sights including the International Centre of Graphic Arts in the glorious
17th century Tivolski Grad (Tivoli Mansion), the Museum
of Modern History and, in the parks far southwestern
reaches, in an area designated as a nature reserve, the
citys half-decent zoo. Also look out for the monument to
Primoz Trubar at the entrance to the park. Truboz was an

early force in Slovene literature and the creation of a Slovene national identity.QA/B-2.
River Cruises
Barka Ljubljanica
No trip to Ljubljana is complete without taking a waterbased tour, and the handmade wooden boat operated
by the young team at Laker Craft is easily the most attractive of all the crafts plying the waters of the Ljubljanica. Even for those who live here, its like viewing the
city for the first time, drawing ones attention to details
that are invisible from solid ground. A standard ride lasts
just under an hour, and offers views of most of the old
towns major sights from a unique vantage point, and
private trips can also be arranged, offering a unique
way to impress business clients or have an unforgettable romantic evening. The 10m flat-bottomed vessel
is constructed of solid larch and oak wood, and can host
up to 50 people at a time, while catering can also be arranged through a number of local restaurants. Moored
just next to Novi Trg along the redeveloped Breg waterfront, its just a few minutes walk from parking garage at
Kongresni Trg.QBreg 2, tel. +386 (0)41 386 945, info@
barka-ljubljanica.si, www.barka-ljubljanica.si. Operates 11:00-20:00 from May-Oct and 15:00-21:00 from
Nov-Jan. Rides 8 per person, children under 12 free.
Private hire from 120.
Squares
Mestni Trg (Town Square)
The centre of medieval Ljubljana, the towns main square
was damaged in the 1511 earthquake and subsequently
rebuilt in Baroque style. The square houses the Town Hall,
City Art Museum, the decorated 16th century Lichtenberg
house and the Souvan house with its Empire faade.QD3/4.
Preernov Trg (Preeren Square)
Formally a meeting place for several roads in front of one
of the old entrance gates to the city, and a public square
since Ljubljanas original defensive walls were torn down
in the middle of the 19th century, this is one of the citys
most important landmarks. Named after Slovenias national poet France Preeren (German, Franz Prescheren, 18001849), its both a popular meeting place (notably under the
large statue of the man after whom the square is named)
and a site for concerts and events during the summer.
The charming little public space is ringed by a number of
interesting sights including the magnificent Art Nouveau
faade of the Urbanc House, an extraordinary piece of
early 20th-century flamboyance and site of the soon to be
reopened Centromerkur department store.QD-3.
REGULAR LJUBLJANA CITY TOUR

The regular tour of Ljubljana, available daily, takes you on a walk through the
historical city centre, giving you an opportunity to see its major sights.
The tour begins in front of the Town Hall and continues through the historical city centre, well
known for its unique architectural appearance, which is the result of the legacy of the Baroque
and Art Nouveau periods and, most notably, the work of the famous 20th century architect Joe
Plenik. You can choose between three versions of the tour, two ending at Ljubljana Caste and one
with a tourist boat cruise along the river Ljubljanica.
Tour versions and schedule:
Guided city walk and funicular ride to Ljubljana Castle

1 October 31 March: daily at 11:00
1 April 30 September: daily at 10:00
Guided city walk and tourist boat cruise along the Ljubljanica
Guided city walk and tourist road train ride to Ljubljana Castle
Duration: Two hours.

Departure point: The square in front of the Town Hall.
Language options: Slovenian, English.
Prices
10.00 for adults

5.00 for children between four and 12 years old
Free for children under four years old
Additional information and general terms and conditions:
1 discount is available on tour tickets purchased at the Ljubljana Tourist

Information Centre (Adami-Lundrovo nabreje 2).
Guided city walks ending at Ljubljana Castle
The tour price includes a return funicular or tourist road train ticket.
In the summertime, you can join a guided tour of Ljubljana Castle after your
city walk is over. Your city walk ticket entitles you to buy the castle tour ticket
at a discount price of 6.00 (rather than the regular price of 8.00).
In the event of bad weather conditions, the tourist road train ride will be
cancelled and the tour will end with a funicular ride to Ljubljana Castle
instead.
Guided city walk ending with a boat cruise along the Ljubljanica
In the event of adverse river conditions, the boat cruise will be cancelled
and the tour will end with a funicular ride to Ljubljana Castle instead.
Tour/Excursion booking enquiry:
Booking on www.visitljubljana.com or at TIC. Your enquiry will be forwarded

to a tourist information centre, who will check the availability of your preferred dates and times and get back to you within 48 hours at the latest.
Sightseeing
Sightseeing
Lipica Stud Farm
Truly stunning, you are never far from the Alps in Slovenia
Tours
The Tourist Information Centre should be your first stop if
youre interested in any kind of city tour. They offer a variety
of scheduled tours for individuals, and can arrange even
more for groups with a bit of advanced notice. Prices and
itineraries are also clearly listed on their site, so youll know
exactly what youre getting. Almost every hotel in the city
offers guided tours of one sort or another as well. Some are
good, others just a way of making money. You should be
able to spot the scams without too much difficulty.
Slocally.com
In much the same way that the Slow Food movement
revolutionised the way people view the experience of
enjoying a good meal, the cleverly named Slocally.com
aims to promote a wider movement of Slow Tourism in
Slovenia, and offers dozens of unique activities for visitors
to participate in - from tasting locally produced foods and
wines on family-run farms to experiencing traditional local events and fairs to taking part in a diverse variety of
hands-on workshops. Were not exaggerating when we
say that theres likely no better or more convenient way
to get to know Slovenia. Detailed descriptions and clearly
indicated prices can be found on the very informative
website, and the passionate creator of the project, Vesna
Veliek, is always happy to answer any questions you
may have.QFrankopanska 29, tel. +386 (0)41 432 488,
booking@slocally.com, www.slocally.com.
Time Machine At The Castle

While it may be an often-claimed slogan, the Time Machine guided tour at Ljubljana Castle truly is a tour like no
other. Follow the history of one of the biggest symbols
of Ljubljana through six of its most important periods,
from Roman Emona through to the 20th century. You are
guided along each step by a different costumed character
from each time, creating a unique atmosphere that we
cant help but enjoy. Starting from the information point
at the castle, the tour runs four times a day from June to
September.Qtel. +386 (0)1 232 99 94, virtualni-grad@
ljubljanskigrad.si, www.ljubljanskigrad.si. Jan - Mar,
Nov - Sun 11:00, 15:00, Apr - May, Oct, Dec - Sat and Sun
11:00, 15:00, Jun - Sept - Daily 11:00, 13:00, 17:00. 19:00.
Admission: 10 (12 with funicular), children (aged 7 18) 50% discount.
Lipica Stud Farm has flourished tremendously since its

conception over 400 years
ago. Set amongst beautiful
natural surroundings,it is not
only home to more than 350
Lipizzaner horses, but also
very rich in history. Since its
foundation by the Habsburg
Archduke Charles II in 1580,
Lipica has become one of the most prominent attractions Slovenia has to offer.
One of the many reasons this stud farm stands so proudly today is the origin of the Lipizzaner. These capable and
distinguished horses have taken a major part in the development of this amazing establishment since the very
beginning, and are reputed for having an eagerness to
learn. Best of all they have been particularly well-trained
in the art of riding, which has enabled a large assortment
of activities and events to occur frequently, making now
more than a fine time to pay a visit.
To put it simply, Lipikum museum excels in portraying
the amazing Lipizzaner through modern presentations,
with both interactive displays and classical exhibits. It
will leave you knowing more than you could hope to,
and all through a pleasant and amusing experience for
both adults and children. The Stud Farm also offers a
nice and informative tour (available in English, Italian,
German, Croatian, French and Slovene), where friendly
guides will see that you are well informed about Lipicas
most beloved beast, and extensive history how of how
it came to be.
For centuries Lipizzaners have incorporated carriage
drawing into their area of expertise. Now, you can take a
carriage ride through Lipicas colourful and peaceful atmosphere of groomed grounds, with your own friendly
carriage driver.
Many more sights

online at
To get a little more active, Lipica Stud Farm hosts a variety of invigorating horse riding programmes, as well as
lessons for more advanced riders. If you ever imagined
yourself as a brave knight of old then you just might
want to seize the days and give it a try! On a side-note,
they also offer pony riding lessons for kids between
three and seven years old, where, for a very reasonable
price, the little one will learn the basics of riding horses,
and more importantly, how to treat them.
At the end of a tiring and eventful day, retreat to the
comfort of your accommodation, where you can enjoy
various delicacies of the Karst, and relay in the peace
of the secluded location, resting up for the next days
learning, riding, show or indeed onward journey. By virtue of the ample facilities in the main centre, Lipica in
as excellent destination either for all manner of conferences, or to get married.
And last but not least, it would be folly not to mention
the classical riding school! The pride of the Lipica Stud
Farm the cream of the crop stallions training their elegant trots, turns and other skills. The training sessions
are open to spectators and of course there is a busy
programme of equestrian events and shows to be considered when planning your visit. Be sure to check the
website for the full schedule.
Event or not, anyone with even a passing interest in the
long faced beauties should not leave Slovenia without
paying Lipica a visit!QLipica 5, Seana, tel. +386 (0)5
739 1580, fax +386 (0)5 739 1730, info@lipica.org,
www.lipica.org.
65
Shopping
Shopping
Mandarina Duck
Mandarina Duck is an innovative designer brand that offers simple, unique and creative solutions for people who
are ambitious, curious, positive and always up-to-date on
the latest trends. The brands range includes handbags,
business bags, wallets and luggage.veQC/D-3, Wolfova
1, tel. +386 (0) 1 251 10 10, www.bags.si. Open 09:30 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
Marina Yachting
Ideally located on Novi Trg in Ljubljanas old town, Marina
Yachting brings the fashions of the sea to the city. Using
lightweight materials allowing for maximum comfort,
the traditions of the sailors are respected at every turn as
modern twists are developed creating clothes to be worn
for every occasion. Nothing is rushed, and the care taken
over each garment is obvious to all. The brand is constantly evolving, producing fashionable and classy attire with
ease.QC-4, Novi Trg 6, tel. +386 (0)1 425 1107, marina.
yachting@amis.net, www.liliinroza.si. Open 09:00 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
Department Stores
Nama
Set in the heart of the city centre, just opposite the central
post office, this modern department store offers several
floors of clothing for men and women, with brands ranging from sporty to trendy to sophisticated. A large selection of household items can be found on the fourth floor
and a supermarket stocked with an appetising variety of
ready meals, salads, produce and other quick eats is in the
basement, while the ground floor is where you will find
cosmetics and accessories.QC-3, Tomieva 2, tel. +386
(0)1 425 83 00, info@nama.si, www.nama.si. Open
09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun.
Fashion
Betty Barclay
With a newly opened store on Ciril Metodov Trg, Betty
Barclay continue to provide contemporary clothes for the
women of the modern world, with their internationally respected brand adding that extra gravitas desired. A collection for summer 2014 focuses on elegance and sophistication, all the while keeping a close eye on the latest trends.
Betty Barclay is for those who want a genuine enjoyment
of fashion of the most current designQCiril Metodov
Trg 2, tel. +386 (01) 439 37 90, tkan.mackova@siol.net,
www.bettybarclay.com. Open 09:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 13:00. Closed Sun.
Forma F+
One of Ljubljanas largest fashion and sporting good megastores, in addition to the individual approach and personal advice from resident professional athletes, Forma
F+ also offers an exclusive range of top brands, including
Quiksilver, Roxy, Rossignol, SuperDry, Columbia and Nike.
Its located on three floors of the Crystal Palace building
in BTC City, and theres also a Forma F+ Outlet in Hala 11,
where items from last season can be bought with a significant discount.QM-2, Amerika 8, BTC City, tel. +386
(0)5 994 61 80/+386 (0)1 300 08 26, info@fplus.si, www.
fplus.si. Open 09:00-20:00. Closed Sun and holidays.
Krznarstvo Eber
This small boutique, located just metres from Preeren
square, has been trading in the finest furs for nearly 100
years. Fourth generation Milena Eber carries on the family
tradition, lovingly repairing fur coats as well as producing one of a kind pieces using sustainably-sourced pelts
of every ilk. Krzanstvo Eber sell everything from gifts and
home wares to accessories and apparel such as stunning
fur coats - a big trend this season. Whilst were no fur
experts, Krzanstvo Ebers century-long history and large
number of Russian customers certainly vouch for the quality of their products.QWolfova 6, tel. +386 (0)1 421 57
00, info@krznarstvo-eber.com, www.krznarstvo-eber.
com. Open 09:00-19:00, Sat 09:00-12:00 and by prior
arrangement. Closed Sun.
Petit Bateau
Petit Bateau is a century-old tradition based on the things
that should be a part of everyday life: Youthful playfulness, sincere happiness and endless comfort. Since 1893
the brand has been an indispensable companion for
children and adults for whom quality and comfort are
important.QD-4, Stari Trg 30, tel. +386 (0)5 993 49 89,
petit-bateau@siol.net, www.liliinroza.si. Open 09:00 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
Quiksilver
The Ljubljana branch of the well-known international
sporting apparel shop, stocks a variety of fashionable casual and sportswear for both men and women,
whether your destination is the beach, the ski slopes or
the mountains.QD-4, Mestni Trg 10, tel. +386 (0)1 251
10 73/+386 (0)51 222 069, boardridersclub.lj@gmail.
com. Open 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00
- 15:00.
Viktor Barli
This family-run enterprise has been producing highquality handmade leather goods since first opening its
doors on Mestni Trg back in 1954. Nowadays the third
generation of the Barli family specialises in the design
and creation of original handbags and other leather accessories, combining traditional handmade methods
with modern fashion trends. No two bags are exactly
alike and the selection changes weekly, making this
is the perfect shop for those who take pride in being
unique. A carefully chosen range of imported womens
footwear is also available. The shop is a winner of the
prestigious Ljubljana Quality Selection, so you can rest
assured that youll be in good hands.QD-4, Mestni Trg
8, tel. +386 (0)1 251 2908, info@barlic.si, www.barlic.
si. Open 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 15:00.
Second hand/vintage
Moje Tvoje
A unique concept shop, Moje Tvoje (or mine is yours)
offers a great selection of reasonably priced vintage
and second-hand clothing, as well as some original
jewellery created by young Slovene designers. Just
for good measure the place also doubles as gallery
space for locals artists, with exhibitions changing every month or two. Find it down a small passageway
off Mestni Trg not far from Town Hall.QD-4, Mestni
Trg 8, tel. +386 (0)40 127 973, mojetvoje-secondhand.si. Open 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun
11:00 - 17:00.
Shoes
Cristobal
This little shop, tucked away in the city centre is easy to
miss, though local fashionistas flock here for stylish and
top-quality shoes and accessories. Cristobal stock a wide
range of predominately Italian designer shoes (mens also
available), many of the labels youll find nowhere else in Ljubljana - such as the stunning and uber trendy Clox (shoes
cum time piece). Also on sale are a range of beautiful Knomo laptop bags and a select range of gorgeous jewellery
some of which is designed locally.QC-4, idovska 5, tel.
+386 (0)1 421 01 23, info@cristobal.si, www.cristobal.si.
Open Mon-Fri 10:00-19:30, Sat 10:00-14:00. Closed Sun.
Slovenian Designers
Clich Shop Gallery
Ljubljana-based Clich Jelena Leskovar is one of the most intriguing fashion labels in the so-called new Europe. The designs
are all created using a principle of FQ, or Fashion Intelligence
Quotient, which promotes the longevity of forms and compatibility of pieces from new collections with previous ones. Clichs
shop and gallery on Novi Trg offers both collections from its
own brand, as well as complimentary accessories from designers based in Europe, the US and Japan.QC-4, Novi Trg 6, tel.
+386 (0)1 42 63 152/+386 (0)31 372 990, info@cliche.si, www.
cliche.si. Open 12:00 - 20:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
Food & Drink

Mesarstvo Krui
For those looking try a distinctly Slovene culinary staple,
the family-run Krui Butchery is the countrys top provider
of horse meat and assorted products. While the thought of
67
Shopping
Shopping
Gifts & Souvenirs
okoladnica Cukrek
A charming, family-run business with four shops in the city,
okoladnica Cukrek has been delighting adults and making
children happily sick for a decade and a half. Among the many
fine examples of chocolate for sale include special Ljubljana
dragons in souvenir wooden boxes, fruit covered in chocolate
and even chocolate flavoured with salt. In addition to the main
location on Mestni Trg, you can find Cukrek in the Nebotinik
passageway, opposite Hotel Union and in Mercator Centre
ika.QD-3/4, Mestni Trg 11, tel. +386 (0)1 421 04 53, www.
cukrcek.si. Open 09:00 - 20:00, Sun 10:00 - 19:00.
Galerija Rustika
Featuring the largest selection of high-quality Slovenian
handicraft products in the entire country, Rustika is indeed
equal parts gallery and shop. Perusing the collection with the
help of a knowledgeable staff member feels a bit like taking
a guided tour through all of the many diverse regions and
cultures found within Slovenias borders. Highlights include
traditional beehive panels produced by an award-winning
local artisan, world famous Idrijan lace, and various different
seasonal specialties. In addition to their beautiful premises just
inside the gates of Ljubljana Castle, theres a second location
near Tromostovje Bridge.QD-4, Ljubljanski Grad, tel. +386
(0)1 251 17 18, www.galerijarustika.si. Open 10:00 - 18:00.
eating horse will strike visitors from certain countries as an

odd practice, from a nutritional point of view the high protein and low fat meat is much healthier than the more widely consumed alternatives. Using old family recipes, Krui
produces everything from pts to dry salami, and of course
has a wide selection of fresh raw cuts, all of which come
exclusively from Slovenia and have received various quality awards. A second location can be found in the Plenik
Arcade at the central market, and their products can also be
purchased at Domaa Vas in Kranj.QL-3, Bezenkova 11,
tel. +386 (0)1 586 24 37, www.mesarstvo-krusic.si. Open
08:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Health & Beauty

Oliviers&Co
With a newly opened boutique store on Ciril Metodov
trg, the Oliviers & Co olive oil empire continues to grow.
The company was founded in France almost 20 years ago,
and has fully committed to offering the very best that the
Mediterranean has to offer, in the shape of the finest olive
oils, truffles, spreads, cosmetics and much more, including
the most delightful vinegars weve ever come across. Delightfully friendly (but not intrusive) shop assistants are on
hand to help at all times.QC-2, Slovenska 46, tel. +386 1
232 22 92, info@oliviers-co.si, www.oliviers-co.si. Open
09:00 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Oliviers&Co QCiril Metodov trg 20, +386 (0)8 383 78
16, Open 09:30 - 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 19:00, Sun 11:00 - 16:00.
Galerija RustikaQD-3, Stritarjeva 9, tel. +386 (0)1

251 17 18/+386 (0)31 459 509, www.galerijarustika.si.
Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sun 10:00 - 20:00.
Old Town Souvenirs
Situated directly between Preeren Square and Dragon
Bridge, youre guaranteed to pass by this well-stocked souvenir shop on any walking tour of Ljubljana. In addition to
the usual assortment of souvenirs, from magnets and shot
glasses to chocolate and schnapps (and of course all manner
of dragons), they also offer uniquely designed high-quality
t-shirts, which conveniently come in their own gift bag. If the
weather is nice, you can even grab a beer or soda to drink
along the riverside promenade while writing the obligatory
postcards.QD-3, Petkovkovo Nabreje 27a, tel. +386 (0)1
620 0851, info@old-town.si. Open 09:00 - 19:00.
Trgovina Ika
Ika puts the creativity of local Slovene artists and fashion
designers in the forefront of its shelves, exhibiting a wonderful selection of products such as paintings, ceramics,
jewellery and fashion. You can pick up great souvenirs
here as a lot of the products represent the beauty of Ljubljana in artistic forms, or if youre looking for a unique
garment or piece of art, youve come to the right place.
QD-3, Ciril-Metodov Trg 13, tel. +386 (0)1 232 17 43,
info@trgovina-ika.si, www.trgovina-ika.si. Open 10:00
- 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 18:00, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
Home & Design

1001 Dar
While weve never personally counted, the name Tiso in
En Dar (Slovene for 1001 Things) seems just about right for
this chain of home and design shops, which stock everything from pillows and blankets to gardening supplies to
sushi rolling set and Thai spices. A family-run company for
more than 25 year, each product is carefully selected from
top international brands for both its usability and aesthetics, as well as personal taste, many of which cant be
found elsewhere in Slovenia. Visit the original shop in the
Plava Laguna underpass, or one of four others, including at
Citypark in BTC and Mercator Centre in ika in Ljubljana,
as well as Europark in Maribor.QM-2, martinska 152g
(Citypark), tel. +386 (0)1 541 17 30, www.1001dar.si.
Open 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 - 21:00, Sun 09:00 - 15:00.
Wine, Spirits & Beer

Pivoteka Za Popent
Za Popent may be hidden away in a small courtyard off of
Stari Trg, but its selection of specialty beers is the largest in the
country. At last count some 250 different beers from around the
world were weighing down the shelves here, nearly all of which
can be explained in detail by the friendly and knowledgeable
owner or her staff. For those who dont know much about beers
(like us), dont worry - simply tell them what kind of flavours you
like and they will be able to find a beer for you to try!QD-4,
Stari Trg 5, tel. +386 (0)1 256 59 16, zapopent@hotmail.com,
www.zapopent.si. Open 11:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun.
Shopping Centres
Fresh meat and meat products made by traditional recipes.

www.mesarstvo-krusic.si
BTC City
The biggest thing of its kind in the country, the positively
enormous BTC features not only some 450 shops selling
everything you could possibly imagine, but also boasts restaurants galore, bars, a post office, multiplex cinema, indoor
go-cart racing, a comedy theatre, billiards, volleyball courts,
an enormous water park, conference facilities and its very
own business district housing some of the best known local
and international companies. Theres free parking for more
than 8,500 vehicles too, all just a couple of kilometres out
of the centre of the city in the general direction of Maribor.
QM-3, martinska 152, tel. +386 (0)1 585 22 22, info@
btc.si, en.btc-city.com. Open 09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun.
69
NEWEST, HIGHEST AND MOST

MODERN HOTEL IN LJUBLJANA
Hotels
Hotels Over 170
Grand Hotel Union Business
Attached to its sibling Executive hotel and sharing some but
not all of the facilities on offer, accommodation comes in a
choice of rooms and suites. Shared facilities include a grand
total of 21 conference and banqueting rooms, secure parking and the pleasing fact that the best sights and leisure activities in the city are all close at hand. Check out their extensive website for further information.QD-3, Mikloieva 3,
tel. +386 (0)1 308 1170, business@union-hotels.eu, www.
union-hotels.eu. 133 rooms (singles 178-212, doubles
193-227, suites 372-446). PTJHAR6U
FLGKDXCW hhhh
Hotel Listings Policy

Hotels are listed strictly by price band, and then by
alphabetical order within that band. The price band
refers to the rack rate for a double room.
Lev
Opened in 1964, Lev boasts a pedigree that has managed
to entice notable celebrities, such as Agatha Christie, Kirk
Douglas, Luciano Pavarotti, Bob Dylan and countless others.
A glistening marble lobby serves as a fine overture to 173
high quality, air-conditioned rooms, ranging from singles to
suites. All come complete with amenities every guest looks
for, including complementary wireless internet access. Hotel
Lev offers also conference services and high-end Mediterranean cuisine, served in the award-winning la carte Restaurant Pri Levu.QC-2, Vonjakova 1, tel. +386 (0)1 308 7000,
lev@union-hotels.eu, www.union-hotels.eu. 173 rooms
(singles 200-286, doubles 240-312). PJHA
R6UFGKXW hhhh
Grand Hotel Union Executive

In a great location in the heart of the city centre, the Executive offers fine accommodation in a range of tastefully decorated rooms, suites and apartments. Complete
with a lovely old world, Art Nouveau ambience, expect
an excellent choice of facilities for both business and leisure. Extras include two restaurants, a small bar, airport
shuttle service and a decent gift shop. In keeping with
its reputation, the hotel also hosts the local bridge club,
who meet every Monday at 18:00.QD-3, Mikloieva Hotels 100-170
fpt_OGLAS_LIYP_60x90_PRESS_NEW-7-2014.pdf 1 16.7.2014 16:12:16
1, tel. +386 (0)1 308 1270, grand@union-hotels.eu, Antiq
www.union-hotels.eu. 194 rooms (singles 194-233, A superb location in the heart of the old town with a host
doubles 209-248, suites 455-546). PJHA of rooms to suit all tastes and budgets. Featuring a welR6UFLGKDXCW hhhh
coming little lobby with lots of nice feminine touches, the
rooms have been given a distinctly boutique hotel feel,
with huge wooden beds, patterned carpets, interesting
Four Points by Sheraton
paintings on the walls and some really smart pieces of furLjubljana Mons
niture. Even the small budget economy rooms have been
Pot za Brdom 4
1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
approached with a tasteful eye, whereas at the other end
T +386 1 47 02 700
FOURPOINTS.COM/LJUBLJANAMONS
of the spectrum the superiors come with bags of space,
lovely chandeliers and magnificent bathrooms. Room 13
on the other hand takes a different, more modernistic
approach, with wooden floors and minimalist furniture.
QD-4, Gornji Trg 3, tel. +386 (0)1 421 35 60, fax +386
(0)1 421 35 65, info@antiqhotel.eu, www.antiqhotel.eu.
Open 00:00 - 24:00. 16 rooms (singles 85-110, doubles
156-206, extra bed 50). PJAR6IGW
hhhh
WHERE YOU
WANT TO BE (RENOVATED IN 2014)
Always a great stay
Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel

Selected house beer with Best BrewsTM
Weekly after-work BBQ parties
Great food at the Atrium Restaurant and cozy
atmosphere at The Bar
20112012 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights

Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG, Four Points and their logos are
the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or
its affiliates.
Austria Trend
Near the ring road 2km north of the city centre, this
vast business class hotel provides high quality rooms
in four different categories, plus a range of other excellent services and facilities including a wellness
centre, conference rooms, restaurants, a fine cocktail
bar and a fun oyster and sushi bar. Popular for both
relaxing business stays as well as a variety of different
functions, youll be hard pressed to find a better hotel
of this type in the city.QL-2, Dunajska 154, tel. +386
(0)15 88 25 00, fax +386 (0)15 88 25 99, ljubljana@
austria-trend.at, www.austria-trend.at/lju. Open
00:00 - 24:00. 214 rooms (singles 100-125, doubles 140-220, suites 130-210, apartments 225).
POHA6UFGKDXW
HIGHLIGHTS OF
PLAZA HOTEL LJUBLJANA
236 modern, comfortable and spacious rooms
Free Wi-Fi and tness
Superb cuisine and a large selection of wines
Free admitance into Atlantis Water Park (swimming pools)
Great location and accessibility
Parking space on the hotel parking site and in garage for only 8 EUR per day
Special prices for transfer to the City Centre (5 EUR per car)
and to the airport (25 EUR per car)
Immediate proximity to shopping centres and entertainment areas
Hotels
Hotels
G Design
The exceedingly modern G Design may be one of Ljubljanas newest hotels, but it also boasts over two hundred
years of tradition, as the still functioning (and beautifully
restored) Gostilna Gorjanc restaurant has been serving
travellers at the same location since the end of the 18th
century. The large well-furnished rooms feature soft
lighting and super comfortable beds, with panoramic
views of Ljubljana castle in the distance. Well-equipped
conference facilities and meeting rooms are available,
and for a real treat you can dine in bed at the unique G
Super Club. The hotel is conveniently situated just off the
Brezovica exit on the motorway, at the edge of the forest
just a short drive south of the city centre.QH-5, Traka
330, tel. +386 (0)1 200 91 00, fax +386 (0)1 200 91 30,
info@gdesignhotel.si, www.gdesignhotel.si. 22 rooms
(singles 85-115, doubles 120-150, suites 220-250).
HAULKW hhhh
Central
The classic three-star hotel experience, the Central is the
little brother of the three Union hotels in the city. Geared
up exceptionally well for the tourist market, the reception
is crammed with the latest useful information about the
city and surrounding region. Theres a popular on-site bar
and caf, and the rooms feature everything you need for a
good value stay right in the heart of the city centre. Excellent value accommodation indeed.QD-2, Mikloieva 9,
tel. +386 (0)1 308 4300, central@union-hotels.eu, www.
union-hotels.eu. 74 rooms (singles 90-167, doubles
100-197, suites 286-343). PJHAR6UF
GKDXCW hhh
Four Points by Sheraton Ljubljana Mons
Mons is style personified, with an instant impression made
on arrival by the elegant reception and bar area. Following a mantra based on honest, uncomplicated comfort
and offering more than just an upmarket sleeping option, weekly BBQs throughout summer present a fusion
of excellent Balkan and American food, all you can eat
no less, which were always in favour of. Mons is a part
of the Starwood Preferred Guest program, the best (officially) loyalty program of its kind. A free shuttle service
to the centre of Ljubljana and back is also available.QI4, Pot Za Brdom 4, tel. +386 (0)1 470 27 00, fax +386
(0)1 470 27 08, info@fourpointsljubljana.com, www.
fourpointsljubljanamons.com. 114 rooms (109 - 129).
PTHAR6FLGKDXW hhhh
Ljubljana Resort
Just a few kilometres out of the centre, Ljubljana Resort offers an inspiring oasis for the entire family with accommodations in the form of hotel rooms (with breakfast), campers, and space to set up your own tents. There are also two
large restaurants; the Laguna swimming facility with pools
and hot tubs; and quite a few indoor and outdoor sports
facilities. In the evenings, the resort regularly holds concerts and other night time entertainment. The staff is small
but exceedingly friendly and is available 24 hours a day to
make sure that you enjoy every minute of your stay.QL-
Garni hotel azur
This small welcoming hotel takes a personal approach

to guests needs and accommodating their desires.
Ideally situated near both the city centre and the motorway, it is also within walking distance of the citys
largest green space, Tivoli Park. Rooms are individually
decorated, and come with all the modern amenities
standard in larger hotels. They also offer family rooms
with extra space for little ones and small kitchens, and
an on-site shop sells regional gourmet products. Perhaps best of all the rooms are located next to a great
restaurant of the same name.QJ-4, Sattnerjeva 2, tel.
+386 (0)59 333 600/+386 (0)40 636 205, fax +386
(0)59 333 608, azur.ghbooking@gmail.com, www.
garnihotelazur.si. 7 rooms. PTAR6LW
hhh
For special offer

- 12% discount send us your request on
e-mail:
info@birokrathotel.si
Please include in e-mail offer
code INYOURPOCKET.
Valid only for direct reservations
via e-mail: info@birokrathotel.si.
www.birokrathotel.si | info@birokrathotel.si | +386 1 5300 212 | Dunajska 191 - Ljubljana - Slovenia
1, Dunajska 270, tel. +386 (0)1 568 39 13, fax +386 (0)1
568 39 12, ljubljana.resort@gpl.si, www.ljubljanaresort.
si. 62 rooms (singles 60-115, doubles 70-130, triples
99-160, family 135-200). PTHAULEG
BKXCSW
ity pool, yoga studio and glorious views of Ljubljanas medieval old town.QD-4, Krojaka 6-8, tel. +386 (0)1 200
9000, fax +386 (0)1 200 9001, info@vanderhotel.com,
vanderhotel.com. Singles from 120, doubles from
165. PJHAKCW hhhh
Plaza Hotel Ljubljana

Reaching nearly 60m into the sky, the Plaza Hotel is one
of the tallest - and dare we say most elegant - buildings
in Slovenia. It boasts a total of 236 spacious luxuriouslyappointed rooms, a first-rate restaurant and caf, a 400m2
conference room on the 15th floor, and a rooftop lounge
bar with cocktails that are almost as good as the view. Even
if you live in Ljubljana you may want to consider booking
a room for the night just to experience it all for yourself we already have!QM-3, Bratislava 8, tel. +386 (0)1 243 00
00, info@plazahotel.si, www.plazahotel.si. 236 rooms.
PALKW hhhh
Hotels 70-100
Alo Rooms Vrbinc B&B
A modern bed and breakfast with that extra touch of comfort, the Vrbinc is more personal than any chain hotel, while
retaining a sense of privacy. The corridors are beautifully
decorated with murals of Slovenia, while the bright fresh
rooms sleep up to five, and include a welcome pack with
wine and other treats. Breakfast is especially impressive,
Vander Urbani Resort

Down a narrow cobbled alleyway connecting Mestni Trg
with the riverside, an urban oasis has been constructed
inside of four centuries-old town houses. Extensively
renovated by Sadar Vuga architects in the most contemporary of styles and a member of Design Hotels, the resort (which is not an inaccurate term) is comprised of a
restaurant and lounge bar on the ground floor, with exquisite and uniquely-designed guest rooms located on
the floors above. However, perhaps the most impressive
single feature is the rooftop terrace, which boasts an infinfacebook.com/ljubljana.inyourpocket
73
Hotels
Hotels
modern amenities such as air-con, LCD TVs and free wireless
internet. Parking is also available for guests.QF-2, Njegoeva
6k, tel. +386 (0)1 200 90 90, info@hotel-meksiko.si, www.
hotel-meksiko.si. Single rooms from 54, doubles from
78. PZJALKW
Hotels Under 70
Pension Jelen
Located on the old road leading to Medvode and onwards
to Austria (Celovka Cesta is Slovene for Villach Road), Jelen has been hosting travellers since the late-19th century,
and is also a popular restaurant and pizzeria. Rooms are
modernly equipped and the location offers easy access to
Ljubljanas sights as well as airport, and for those without
their own transport, Jelen can be conveniently reached by
three different bus lines from the city centre (1, 8 and 25).
QCelovka 462, tel. +386 (0)1 516 15 45, info@pensionjelen.eu, www.pension-jelen.eu. 16 rooms from 38.
Apartments
made to order and served at your table in the restaurant.

Located just off the motorway near the Rudnik shopping
centre, Vrbinc is good for those with their own transport,
and cars, bikes and scooters can also be rented onsite.QL6, Peruzzijeva 105, tel. +386 (0)8 205 82 50/+386 (0)40
62 18 62, info@alo-hotel.si, www.alo-accommodationljubljana.si. Singles 49-69, doubles 59-79, triples
79-99, 4-person 99-129, 5-person 125-149.
Hotel Birokrat
Not too far from Stoice Sports Park, Birokrat primarily
caters to business travellers but is just as good an option
for tourists as well. Youll struggle to find more modern,
spacious rooms in the entire city, and guests also get free
entry to the Laguna Swimming Pools, which is as big a
selling point as weve ever heard. With an on-site conference room for the more functional visitors, Birokrat really
covers both sides of the visiting coin.QDunajska cesta 91,
tel. +386 (0)1 530 02 12, rezervacije@birokrathotel.si,
www.birokrathotel.si.
Meksiko
Situated within the University Medical Center, Hotel Meksiko
is the most convenient accommodation option for both outpatients travelling from afar and visiting relatives, and is also a
fine choice for business travellers and ordinary tourists, as its
position on Ljubljanas inner-ring road provides easy access to
the rest of the city by car, as well as a short walking distance to
the eastern edges of the old town and main tourist attractions.
The hotels 50 rooms are modernly equipped, and all feature
Kollmann Apartments
These beautifully renovated luxury apartments and rooms
right in the centre of the old town are truly a sight to behold. The highlight of the smaller unit is the king-sized waterbed located in a loft bedroom separated from the living room below, while the larger apartment is absolutely
huge, with two bedrooms, a full bathtub and a washing
machine. Both apartments and one of the rooms have
fully-equipped kitchenettes, while the larger of the apartments and both rooms also have great views of the Ljubljanica and old town below. All units feature brand new
LCD TVs and free internet,QD-4, Cankarjevo Nabreje 27,
tel. +386 (0)51 268 288, info@ljubljana-apartments.eu,
www.ljubljana-apartments.eu. Apartment 1 (2-3 people) 93, Apartment 2 (6-8) 176, ensuite rooms (2-4)
78-85. PTJA6GXW
MartaStudio
These three self-contained studios and one large 106m
apartment are reasonably priced alternatives to booking
a hotel. All fitted with modern facilities, including kitchenettes, the family-run accommodation is just a short
10-minute walk from the city centre, or an even shorter

bus ride from the stop just a few metres away (lines 1 and
6). A supermarket, restaurants and banks are all nearby,
and airport pick-up can be arranged for little more than
the cost of a bus. The entrance is in the same building
as the shop Mavrica, look for the house in the courtyard
with the red faade.QJ-4, Traka 24, tel. +386 (0)5 9020
452/+386 (0)41 874 400, fax +386 (0)5 9060 012, info@
martastudio.eu, www.martastudio.eu. (3 studios 60, 1
apartment 137). TA6L
Old Town Rooms and Apartments
These newly opened rooms and apartments in a renovated
house along the Ljubljanica allow guests to both enjoy an
authentic old town experience, while also having the comfort of modern accommodation - all just steps from Preeren
Square, Dragon Bridge and all the other sights in Ljubljanas
medieval centre. All units are bright and airy with wooden
furnishings, manually controlled air conditioning, and modern necessities such as large flat screen TVs and wireless
internet. Set off Petkovkovo nabreje through a common
courtyard, those looking for peace in the very centre need
look no further.QD-3, Petkovkovo Nabreje 27a, tel.
+386 (0)1 620 0851, info@old-town.si, www.old-town.
si. Rooms from 53, apartments from 83. PJAW
Hostels
AdHoc Hostel
Despite the name, budget conscious travellers can rest assured that every aspect of this newly opened hostel has
been thoroughly planned and executed - including all the
small touches that backpackers are sure to appreciate, such as
ample common space, plenty of showers and shelves for the
top bunks. However, its the unbeatable location in the heart of
the old town just below the castle and only steps from all the
major sites (and popular nightlife venues) that makes AdHoc
a winner. A total of 92-beds are spread across several floors
and a combination of dorms and private rooms.QCankarjevo
Nabreje 27, tel. +386 (0)51 268 288, info@adhoc-hostel.
com, www.adhoc-hostel.com. 8-bed dorm 16-20, private
quadruple 17-23/person, private double 19-27/person.
PJGW
Comfort in the heart of Ljubljana with Old Town Rooms and

Apartments
Around Ljubljana
Traka 24, 1000 Ljubljana
Apartment (6 - 8 people) available for long-term accommodation,
from 80-100/per day.
Phone/Fax:
+386 (0)5 9020 452
+386 (0)41 874 400
fax:+386 (0)5 9060 012
info@martastudio.eu
www.martastudio.eu
Pri Cesarju
This charming little guesthouse offers cosy accommodation in the heart of medieval Kamnik, making it a great base
for hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter, or those
whod like to enjoy a relaxing stay outside of the capital in
any season. The large rooms come in several different sizes,
all of which boast modern furnishings, refrigerators, LCD
televisions and lots of wood from floor to ceiling. Two of the
rooms also have balconies with views towards the majestic
Kamnik-Savinja Alps.QTunjika 1, Kamnik, tel. +386 (0)41
629 846, info@cesarski-dvor.si, www.pricesarju.si. 11
rooms (singles 36, doubles 48-58, family rooms 7492). Breakfast 4 per person. PTJLW
75
Embassies & Expats

With a population of approximately 280,000 inhabitants, Ljubljana is somewhat smaller than Coventry,
England or Biaystok, Poland and just larger than Braov,
Romania or Mnster, Germany - closer in size to a village than a metropolis. However, with all due respect to
these other undoubtedly fine cities, Ljubljana boasts a
cosmopolitan feel well beyond what the simple numbers would imply, thanks to factors including its status
as an EU capital, its position at one of the continents
main geographical and historical crossroads, strong
connections with the former Yugoslav states, a long
tradition of culture and the arts, its quick establishment
of a (more or less) market-oriented economy after independence, its popularity as a destination for foreign
students, and its relatively high quality of life, especially
for families and nature-lovers. All of this adds up to a
thriving expat community, which weve tried to feature
just a bit of on the following pages.
Expat Organisations
International Club of Slovenia A fun club
for (mostly professional) expats living in Slovenia. The
organisation is open to anyone who wants to meet new
people and all their events are advertised on their website,
and most are free to attend, including the popular Friday Night Drinks.QICS@sloveniawelcomes.com, www.
sloveniawelcomes.com/expats.
InterNations InterNations is the worlds number one
online expat community, which offers a platform to easily meet other expats in Ljubljana. In addition to a lively
online community, members regularly get together at
events or take part in planning trips together.Qwww.
internations.org.
real estate
Expat Chat with Pilar Santana

Nationality: Dominican Italian
Age: 48
How long have you lived in
Ljubljana? 4 months
What do you do? Im a restaurant manager and work all day
long. As soon as I have time I escape to Bled.
STOJA TRADE d.o.o.,
Hows your Slovene? Ive learnt 15 words so far, my

first one was raun/gotovina.
Dolenjska cesta 242C, SI-1000 Ljubljana

T: +386 1 2800 860, F: +386 1 2800 861
E: info@stoja-trade.si
What do you like most about Ljubljana? Quiet

life the river so many young people!
What do you like least about Ljubljana? Too
many rules! In Italy there is more flexibility. The weather
has been crazy this summer too.
Favourite restaurant? Casa Mulata
Favourite caf? Zvezda
APARTMENTS I HOUSES I BUSINESS PREMISES I LAND
FOR RENT I FOR SALE I WE RENT I WE BUY
Favourite bar/club/pub? Cacao

Favourite Slovenian gifts for friends/family
back home? Cakes from Zvezda!
Favourite day trip from Ljubljana? Bled!
Slovenian International Ladies Association The Slovenian International Ladies Association, or
SILA, is a dynamic organisation of women from nearly
40 countries currently or permanently living in Slovenia.
Founded in 1993 as a non-profit, SILA dedicated to social,
cultural and educational exchange among its members.
Its main event of the year, is the annual charity bazaar held
each winter.Qwww.sila.si.
Stoja Real Estate Agency is the most popular

real estate agency in Ljubljana for foreigners, diplomats and local buisness people.
Stoja has been operating in Slovenia since
1996, and specialises in both residential and
commercial rental properties in the Slovene
capital. We have a huge selection of houses, apartments and business premises. Our
agents will happily assist customers with all
aspects of the rental process, as well as buying and selling property around the country.
International Schools
Stoja Real Estate Agency
The most popular real estate agency in Ljubljana for
foreigners, diplomats and local buisness people, Stoja
has been operating in Slovenia since 1996, and specialises in both residential and commercial rental properties in the Slovene capital. They have a huge selection
of houses, apartments and business premises, and will
happily assist customers with all aspects of the rental
process, as well as buying and selling property around
the country.QDolenjska 242c, tel. +386 (0)1 28 00
860/+386 (0)41 652 141, fax +386 (0) 1 28 00 861,
info@stoja-trade.si, www.rent-a-realestate.com.
www.rent-a-realestate.com, www.dcs.si.
British International School of Ljubljana The British International School of Ljubljana opened
its doors in September 2008. Based in the Beigrad area, to
the north of the city centre, the school has a current enrolment of around 170 children aged 3 to 18. The Pre-School
and Primary Section use the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and the Secondary Section prepares both Slovenian and foreign students for University of Cambridge
ESOL and IGCSE exams, with A-Level following later.QK-2,
Podmilakova 24, tel. +386 (0)40 486 548, enquiries@
britishschool.si, www.britishschool.si.
QSI International School of Ljubljana
QI-4/5, Dolgi Most 6a, tel. +386 (0)1 244 17 50, ljubljana@
qsi.org, www.qsi.org.
www.stoja-trade.si I www.rent-a-realestate.com I www.dcs.si
Embassies & Expats

Embassies & Consulates
All embassies and consulates in Ljubljana. The opening
times and the second listed telephone number is of the
consular departments.
Austria QB-3, Preernova 23, tel. +386 (0)1479 07 00,
fax +386 (0)1252 17 17, laibach-ob@bmaa.gv.at, www.
bmaa.gv.at./laibach. Open , Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu 8:00 12:00, Fri 8:00 - 10:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
China QL-3, Koblarjeva 3, tel. +386 (0)1420 28 55, fax
+386 (0)1282 21 99, kitajsko.veleposlanistvo@siol.net.
Open 08:00 - 11:00. Closed Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun.
France QC-5, Barjanska 1, tel. +386 (0)1479 04 00, fax
+386 (0)1425 04 10, contact@ambafrance-si.org, www.
ambafrance-si.org. Open 08:30 - 12:30. Closed Sat, Sun.
GermanyQB-3, Preernova 27, tel. +386 (0)1 479 03
00, fax +386 (0)1 425 08 99, germanembassy-slovenia@
siol.net, www.laibach.diplo.de. Open , Mon, Tue, Wed,
Thu 09:00 - 12:00, Fri 09:00 - 11:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Italy QB-4, Snenika 8, tel. +386 (0)1 426 21 94, fax
+386 (0)1 425 33 02, archivio.lubiana@esteri.it. Open
09:00 - 11:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Russia QA-2, Tomieva 9, tel. +386 (0)1425 68 75,
fax +386 (0)1425 68 78, ambrus.slo@siol.net, www.
veleposlanistvorusije.mid.ru/. Open 08:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sat, Sun.
UK QB-3, Trg Republike 3/ 4, tel. +386 (0)1 200 39
10, fax +386 (0)1 425 01 74, info@british-embassy.si,
ukinslovenia.fco.gov.uk. Open 09:00 - 12:00. Closed
Sat, Sun.
USA QB-3, Preernova 31, tel. +386 (0)1200 55 00, fax
+386 (0)1200 55 55, usembassyljubljana@state.gov,
slovenia.usembassy.gov. There is no opening hours,
but you have to announce.
Useful Websites
The following are a list of useful Slovene websites that
we personally use on a regular basis. Not all of them are
in English, but thats not something Google Translate
cant help with.
Real Estate www.nepremicnine.net
Online Marketplace www.bolha.com
Electronics www.mimovrste.com
Ride Sharing www.prevoz.org
Live Bus Schedule bus.talktrack.com
English Language News www.sloveniatimes.com
Local Foodie Hub www.ljubljananjam.si
Events Calendar www.napovednik.com
Cultural Info Centre www.kic-ljubljana.si
GLBT Sports & Recreation www.outinslovenija.com
Event Ticketswww.eventim.si
Postojna
among other amenities, while a full wellness and medical treatment centre rounds out the offer. All in all, its a
great place for cyclists, campers and other budget travellers to break their journeys on the way to or from the coast.
QRazdrto 19, tel. +386 (0)41 684 988/+386 (0)5 75 77
200, mirjam.pavlin@mirjam.si, www.mirjam.si. Singles
35, doubles 44, dorms 12, campground 11/two
persons (tent or camper). T6FLEKDCW
Diplomatic Corporate
Services
D iplomatic
C orporate
Services Slovenia Operated
by Stoja Real Estate, as the name
suggests Diplomatic Corporate
Services is a web
portal and associated service
agency that aims to provide foreigners (primarily
from the diplomatic and business community) living
and travelling in Ljubljana and elsewhere in Slovenia
with all the relevant information they could possibly
need - from hotel and restaurant recommendations to
real estate services and medical care. Their dedicated
multi-lingual team is only a phone call or email away,
while their website also provides a wealth of information.QDolenjska 244c, tel. +386 (0)1 2800 860,
info@dcs.si, www.dcs.si. www.dcs.si.
Language courses
Cene tupar This long-running public institution operates under the municipality of Ljubljana, and is one of the
leading providers of Slovene language courses in the country.
New classes begin regularly, and include an accompanying
programme of workshops, excursions and other cultural activities, all of which are led by young enthusiastic instructors
and come at very reasonable prices.QL-3, Linhartova 13, tel.
+386 (0)1 234 44 00/+386 (0)1 234 44 21, fax +386 (0)1 234
44 28, info@cene-stupar.si, www.cene-stupar.si.
Centre for Slovene as a Foreign Language Courses in the Slovene language are available
throughout the year, including free 180-hour courses for
foreign nationals holding valid residency permits (depending on availability).QC/D-4, 12 Kongresni Trg, tel.
+386 (0)1 241 86 77/+386 (0)1 241 86 48, center-slo@
ff.uni-lj.si, www.centerslo.net.
Veris Veris is both one of Ljubljanas top translation and interpretation companies, and most professionally-run language
schools. In addition to offering Slovene language courses for
foreigners of all levels, they also teach English, Arabic, Chinese,
Spanish, Russian and some half dozen other languages. Their
modern facilities are located in the Stegne business park in
the northwest of city.QJ-1, Stegne 7, tel. +386 (0)1 5000 579,
info@veris.si, www.veris.si.
The Proteus Restaurant
With less than 10,000 inhabitants Postojna is barely one

of the 20 largest towns in Slovenia, but arguably none
are more well-known throughout that world (including
the capital Ljubljana) than this relatively nondescript
settlement in the southwest of the country that wasnt
even officially recognise until 1909. The reason of course
it not so much the town itself, but the amazing network
of karst caves that lie just below its surface. First opened
to the public in 1819, the world-famous Postojna Cave is
said to have attracted more than 35 million visitors over
the past two centuries, with one of its first being AustroHungarian Emperor Francis I the year before it opened.
If this were not enough, Postojna is also blessed with
another popular sight in its immediate vicinity, the
magnificent Predjama Castle located some 11km to the
northwest of the town centre. Built in the 13th century
and partially situated under enormous natural stone
arch, its not only a fine castle in its own right, but also
sits atop another tourist cave and is also associated with
several fascinating legends.While the vast majority of
visitors come to Postojna just to see one or both of its
star attractions, with three proper hotels and many other guesthouses and private accommodation options located in and around the town, it makes a good base for
exploring parts of central Slovenia as well as the Karst
region that extends towards the Adriatic Sea and Italy
- Trieste actually being closer to Postojna than Ljubljana
(35km and 54km away respectively).
Where to stay
Mirjam Penzion, Camp & Wellness
Set just underneath one of Slovenias most unique natural
sights, the white limestone cliffs at the southern edge of
the Nanos plateau, Mirjam is mini resort with budget accommodation in both standard guest rooms and a shared
hostel-style dormitories, as well as a small campground
with hookups for motorhomes, shower facilities and plenty of space for pitching a tent. The family-run place also
includes billiards, a football pitch and a swimming pool
Proteus Rooms and Apartments

In heart of Postojna, only 500m from the entrance to the
world famous Postojna Cave, you can find this restaurant
named for the underground worlds most famous resident,
the Proteus Anguinus, or so-called Human Fish. For those
staying in town overnight, accommodation facilities have
recently been added above the restaurant. All rooms and
apartments are modernly and well-furnished, and the latter
also include a kitchen.QTitov trg 1, tel. +386 (0)8 161 03
00/+386 (0)40 45 74 83, info@postojnska-jama.eu, www.
postojnska-jama.eu. 13 rooms and 2 apartments.
Where to eat
Avio Pub
Found just off the runway at Postojnas small recreational airport, theres a large garden out back where diners can watch
the planes take off and land - many of which are taking visitors
on panoramic flights. Despite the name, this place is a fullfledged pizzeria, steakhouse and wine bar, with pizzas coming
crispy and hot from a wood-fired oven, steaks grilled to perfection and a wide selection of Slovene wine from the cellar.
From Tuesday to Friday there are multi-course lunch specials
starting from only 6. Of course the cosy wood-covered interior is very pub-like in appearance, and there are four types of
draught beer on hand for those who are thirsty.QRakitnik 1a,
Prestranek, tel. +386 (0)5 720 13 10, info@aviopub.si, www.
aviopub.si. Open 10:00-23:00, Sat-Sun and holidays 11:0023:00. Closed Mon. TLBS
Proteus Restaurant
In heart of Postojna, only 500m from the entrance to the
world famous Postojna Cave, you can find this restaurant
named for the underground worlds most famous resident, the Proteus Anguinus, or so-called Human Fish. For
those staying in town overnight, accommodation facilities
have recently been added above the restaurant. All rooms
and apartments are modernly and well-furnished, and the
latter also include a kitchen. QTitov Trg 1, tel. +386 (0)8
161 0300/+386 (0)40 457 483, info@postojnska-jama.
eu, www.postojnska-jama.eu.
Restaurant & Pizzeria uk
This humble restaurant and pizzeria keeps things simple
with good food and friendly service. Located on the edge
of town, uk is popular with locals and visitors alike. On
offer are a range of hearty Slovene dishes and excellent
wood-fired pizzas as well as tasty daily specials. The restaurant is great for families with a selection of kids meals
and a playground to occupy the little ones before or after
79
Postojna
Postojna
eating. If you are staying in town and dont feel like heading out, uk also delivers.QPot v Pivki 4, tel. +386 (0)5
7201 300, pizzeria.cuk@siol.net, www.pizza-cuk.si.
Open 10:00 - 23:00, Fri 10:00 - 24:00, Sat 11:00 - 24:00,
Sun 12:00 - 23:00. PTLV
Postojnska Jama
Around Postojna
Kantina Pivka
Maybe it is a sign that we do live in a more peaceful world
that things such as this Military History Park and subsequent military canteen can be so very enjoyable. The park
itself contains an extensive collection of all things military,
including tank-artillery and various aircraft. The canteen
gives you the chance to eat in a pseudo-military setting,
although with much more enjoyable food and no chance
of being sent off at a moments notice to get blown
up.QKolodvorksa cesta 51, Pivka, tel. +386 (0)41 74 05
31, info@aviopub.si. Open 10:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon.
Dolenevi Tourist Farm
Slovenes are a rustic down to earth bunch with many
families still growing their own veggies and producing
homemade delicacies from salami to plum brandy. The
Dolenevi tourist farm, an ecological family-run estate
10km from Postojna, is the perfect place for visitors to experience this strong connection to the land and taste the
fruits of their labour - the homegrown and prepared food
at Dolenevi is excellent, with the house-cured prosciutto
and gnocchi with local game coming especially highly
recommended. The farm is located in a tranquil forested
area with great opportunities for hiking and riding (bike
rental available), and the must-see Postojna and kocjan
caves are just a short drive away.QSajeve 8, Hruevje,
tel. +386 (0)5 756 20 22, dolencevi@gmx.net, www.
dolencevi.si. From 20/person, 24 with breakfast, 34
with half-board.
Morski Konjiek
Found near the town of Pivka just off the main PostojnaPivka-Ilirska Bistrica road (some 15 minutes south of the
A1 motorway), this sprawling countryside restaurant is a
popular stop for Slovenes and tourists after a day at the
coast. Given that its name translates seahorse in English,
its not surprising that fish and other seafood specialities
are the main focus of the menu here, but for those who
have already had their fill of such fare, there are plenty of
other dishes and some fine pizzas. For families theres a
childrens playground for a before or after dinner romp,
and for those whod like to stay for a drink or five the place
is open till the wee hours at the weekends.QMala Pristava 10, Pivka, tel. +386 (0)5 753 20 55/+386 (0)41 523
325, darija.hrvatic@gmail.com. Open 11:00-24:00, Fri
11:00-04:00, Sat 09:00-04:00, Sun 09:00-24:00. Closed
Mon except for holidays.
Read more about Postojna online at

postojna.inyourpocket.com
Postojna Cave (Postojnska Jama)

The largest cave in the karst region and most visited show
cave in all of Europe, words on a page can hardly do justice
to the majesty of Postojna. So far, more than 20km of galleries have been found, of which barely a fraction are open
to the public. All the same, a visit here still takes up much of
a morning or an afternoon, as you make your way through
the most spectacular parts of the cave, at first by a dinky little narrow-gauge train, and then on foot. There are no stairs
or difficult climbs along the path to or inside the cave, so
visitors with limited mobility should not have any difficulties.
Formed over millions of years by the Pivka river, the cave
was discovered in the 13th century, though never properly
explored until the early 1800s. They opened as a tourist attraction in 1819, with Franz I, Emperor of Austria, among the
first to visit. Bizarrely, so popular did the caves become that
electric lights were fitted in 1884: some years before such
technology was first deployed in Ljubljana itself.
Highlights of the cave include the enormous stalactites and
stalagmites, and the quite sensational concert hall, which
can (and does) hold 10,000 people. The acoustics down
here are said to be sensational. Note that the temperature
of the cave is a chilly 10C, so bring a jumper. The caves are
also home to olms (or white salamanders), a blind amphibian endemic to the subterranean waters of caves of this part
of Europe. The olms can be seen in some of the pools of
water as you make your way around the cave. Though blind
they are sensitive to flash photography and if you do spot
one you should refrain from taking any photos.QJamska
30, Postojna, tel. +386 (0)5 700 01 00, fax +386 (0)5 700
01 30, info@postojnska-jama.eu, www.postojnska-jama.
eu. Open every day, all year. From Nov to March tours at
10:00, 12:00 and 15:00, in April and Oct at 10:00, 12:00,
14:00 and 16:00.
Predjama Castle (Predjamski Grad)

Located some 10km north of Postojna is one of Europes finest castles. Predjama Castle (or Predjamski grad, Hhlenburg
Lueg and Castel Lueghi in Slovene, German and Italian respectively), was built in a Gothic style by the Patriarch of Aquileia
sometime during the 13th century and first mentioned in
the historical record in the year 1274. Perched under a natural
archway 123m up a sheer cliff face and surrounded by a thick
stone wall, throughout the centuries the castle has gained a
well-deserved reputation for being virtually impregnable.
This fact was most popularly demonstrated during the 15th
century by the more than year-long siege of Erazem Lueger,
who was a knight and the son of the Imperial governor of
Trieste, but had also a gained a reputation as a rather proficient robber baron throughout the Habsburg empire. It is
said that in 1483, Erazem fled to the castle from Vienna after
killing a Marshall of the Imperial Army who had insulted one
of his friends, which brought about the wrath of Holy Roman
Emperor Frederick II, who laid siege to the castle. However,
thanks to a secret cave leading from the bowels of Predjama
to Postojna Cave and then on to the nearby village of Vipava,
Erazem was able to secure an steady supply of fresh food and
water. Unfortunately for Erazem, his luck ran out when he was
betrayed by one of his servants and unceremoniously killed
by the shot of a single canon ball while on the toilette. In the
years that followed, the castle was destroyed and rebuilt several times, before acquiring a Renaissance style in 1570, which
has remained virtually unchanged to this day.
Nowadays the castle is open to the public and serves as a museum. It has been completely restored to its original grandeur,
and among other sites visitors can see the residential quarters,
the chapel and of course the dungeon. It is also possible to see
the legendary cave below the castle, although some climbing and a minimal level of fitness is strongly encouraged if not
required. QJamska 30, Postojna, tel. +386 (0)5 700 01 00,
fax +386 (0)5 700 01 30, info@postojnska-jama.eu, www.
postojnska-jama.eu. Open every day, all year. From Nov
to March open from 10:00 to 16:00, in April and Oct from
10:00 to 17:00, in May, June and Sept from 9:00 to 18:00,
during July and Aug from 9:00 to 19:00.
81
Brdo: Domain of Delights

horses and picnics in the park to the the modern conference centre and of course tours of the castle itself. Recent
renovations have bestowed the hotel with all the modern
comforts, and the premises also include a fine restaurant,
new wellness centre and two conference halls. The rooms
and suites are a great value, while the 200m2 presidential
suite is true to its name, having accommodated a certain
US leader during his stay in Slovenia in 2001.QPredoslje
39, tel. +386 (0)4 260 1000, hotel.brdo@gov.si, www.
brdo.si. 78 rooms. PHARLKD
Fairy tale weddings are one of the many unique happenings at the
Brdo Estate
One of the grandest estates in all of Slovenia, Brdo was

originally built at the beginning of the 16th century by
Habsburg nobleman Georg Egkh, and in the five centuries that followed it was home to several notable owners including the Zois family and the last monarchs of
Serbia, the Karaorevi family. In more recently history,
the estate served as one of the favourite residences of
Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito and also famously hosted the first meeting between the then newly elected
presidents of the United States and Russia, George Bush
and Vladimir Putin. In 2008 a modern conference centre was built to accommodate the numerous high-level
events that were held during Slovenias six month Presidency of the Council of the EU.
The 500-hectare estate is administered by the Protocol
Office of the Republic of Slovenia, and is the main venue
for the states diplomatic events. However, for most of
the year the well-kept grounds and it various facilities,
including Brdo Castle itself, are open to the public. The
site also includes the newly renovated four-star Hotel
Brdo, which boasts a new wellness centre and fine restaurant.
Depending on visitors interests, the most impressive
site at Brdo is either the magnificent grounds or Brdo
Castle. In addition to its amazing location at the foothills
of the Alps, the estate is criss-crossed with pathways
that wind through pastures and gardens, around several
lakes and through a large forested area. To traverse the
park in style a carriage drawn by white Lipizzaner horses
can be hired, as can small golf carts for those who prefer
practicality to romance.
Meanwhile in the middle of it all sits the indelible castle.
Relatively modest in size and with an unembellished
faade, the interior stands in stark contrast, as it was
completely renovated and refurnished after WWII to
reflect the tastes of Tito. It has been left more or less
unchanged since his death in 1980, offering an intimate
look into the life and times of one of the larger than life
figures of the 20th century.
HOTEL Brdo
Set just outside the entrance of the Brdo estate, Hotel Brdo
offers unfettered access to all of the attractions within,
from carriage rides drawn by famed white Lipizzaner
Hotel Brdo Restaurant

This newly renovated restaurant on the ground floor of
Hotel Brdo (formerly Hotel Kokra) is a perfect place for
lunch on a family trip to the adjacent Brdo Castle and Park.
Decidedly high-end in appearance, service and cuisine,
the menu boasts surprisingly affordable prices, especially
during lunch at the weekends. If youre looking for a more
romantic and/or relaxing getaway, you can combine your
meal with a trip to the onsite wellness centre, or a horsedrawn carriage ride through the park grounds.QPredoslje
39, Kranj, tel. +386 (0)4 260 1000, +386 (0)4 260 1672,
hotel.brdo@gov.si, www.brdo.si. Open 07:00 - 22:00.
PTALBW
Strmol Castle
Along the road connecting the villages of enjevek and
Dvorje you will find the fairytale-like castle Strmol and its
park. Of the twelve medieval castles in the Cerklje municipality this is the only one which survived the ravages of
time and is still in tip-top condition, and is also one of the
only castles in all of Slovenia that still includes its original
furniture. Since 2004 it has been a registered object of the
Republic of Slovenia and used as a guesthouse and conference site by the government.
First mentioned in literature in 1287, Strmol Castle is
among the oldest in the area and in essence medieval, but
the castle was renovated in Renaissance and Baroque style
resulting in an interesting architectural mixture. The castle
park has an aesthetically pleasing design dating from the
17th century. Currently it consists of an artificial lake, nonnative trees, grass fields and a fountain, with Dvorjanski
hill in the background. Around the castle and the hill are
some nice paths for enjoyable strolling, and it has recently
opened as a luxury boutique hotel.QTel. +386 (0)4 260
15 01, brdo-eu@gov.si, www.brdo.si. Open for guided
tours by prior arrangement.
Vrelec Brdo Wellness
This wellness centre is one of the many facilities found at
the magnificent Hotel Brdo, which is itself situated on the
grounds of the Brdo Castle and Park - an historic estate
just north of Kranj, some 30 minutes by car from Ljubljana.
Vrelec offers a wide variety of massages and body care
treatments, as well as Finnish and Turkish saunas, a whirlpool and a cold pool for those who are daring enough to
take an invigorating dip.QPredoslje 39, Kranj, tel. +386
(0)4 260 18 16, vrelec.brdo@gov.si, www.brdo.si. Open
16:00 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 15:00 - 22:00.
Prestige created over Centuries

F O R Y O U TO EN J O Y TO D AY
Awaiting your visit in the rays of sunshine, crowned by glorious past, and
carrying the tradition into present. Venues where the finest encounters of todays
business world and diplomacy have found its home. Our unique castles and villas
are located in Slovenia, the very heart of Europe. With years-long experience of
organising protocol events of the highest level, conferences and celebrations we
remain a trusted partner, always ready and honoured to host your event with the
outmost of care and the highest quality of services.
Castle Brdo at Brdo Estate

Signed with the seal of excellence.
Strmol Castle
Experience beyond compare.
Vila Bled
Timeless elegance.
JGZ Brdo State Protocol Services of the Republic of Slovenia, Predoslje 39, SI-4000 Kranj, Slovenia
Tel: +386 4 260 10 00 Fax: +386 4 202 15 51 email: brdo-eu@gov.si www.brdo.si
Slovenian Spas
More on healthy living at:
www.slovenia-terme.si
There really arent many more relaxing ways to spend a day
In these heady, fast-paced modern times, awareness of

the benefits of looking after your health has never been
higher. For some this means amending ones lifestyle, for
others it means taking advantage of the abundance of
health spas on offer. To say Slovenia has a wealth of such
spas is an understatement, and the country more than
makes the most of its excellent location and agreeable
climate to provide revitalisation of the highest order.
Centuries of tradition meld seamlessly with modern
science surrounded all the while by exquisitely kept
grounds and the stunning landscapes this country excels in providing. A diverse range of treatments can be
found, as well as top quality accommodation and activities for all the family. Weve included a selection of spas
here, but for much more information head to the Slovenian Spas website at www.slovenia-terme.si.
Rogaka Slatina
Rogaka Slatina, a town in tajerska in the east of Slovenia,
is a town synonymous throughout the country with health
tourism, thanks to the wonderfully relaxing facilities at its
eponymous health spa. Hidden up in the hills, it has a plethora of different treatments tailor-made to reinvigorate all
its guests. Massages, a thermal pool, fitness centre, saunas
and a relaxation zone are all at your fingertips. There is also
a shop for purchasing the cosmetic used in the treatments..
QZdraviliki trg 12, Rogaka Slatina, +386 (0)3 811 24 70,
spacenter@grandhotel-rogaska.com, www.grandhotelrogaska.com.
marjeke Toplice
80km southeast of Ljubljana and sat around 170m above
sea level amid forests and meadows, marjeke is widely
regarded as the place to head to for help with cardiovascular ailments. It has programs in place for post-heart attack
rehabilitation among other things, but there is much more
to it than just help for the ticker. Six thermal pools, including a wooden pool built above a thermal spring, are among
our highlights. Three exclusively-equipped four star hotels
are also on board.Qmarjeke Toplice 1000, tel. +386 (0)7
384 34 00, fax +386 (0)7 307 31 07, booking.smarjeske@
terme-krka.si, www.terme-krka.si.
Talaso Strunjan
Squeezing every drop out of its Mediterranean location,
Strunjan is a natural coastal climate spa specialising in Thalassotherapy, that being the use of seawater as therapy.
Among the pine trees it is found, and the area has a long
tradition of fruit and wine growing, along with spring vegetables and the nearby thousand-year old saltpans. The
spa complex also possesses a modern diagnostic centre,
and excellent walking paths are also nearby.QStrunjan
148, tel. +386 (0)5 676 41 00, fax +386 (0)5 678 20 36,
booking.strunjan@terme-krka.si, www.terme-krka.si.
A story about healthy living

There is a long tradition of Slovenian spas that has been taking care of your health.
The decision for a healthy lifestyle waits for you in more than 15 resorts throughout Slovenia.
Slovenian Spas
Terme Dobrna
Dobrnas main attraction for visitors, the spa (terme)
boasts an almost ancient 600 year history. Since then it has
grown into a large complex, sprawling amongst forest and
parkland in a lush valley. Virtually everything imaginable
in terms of spa and wellness services can be discovered
here: honey massage, ayurveda anointments and an iceroom in the sauna land - to name but a few that made
our visit that bit special. In addition, theres an exhaustive
range of preventative, curative and relaxing treatments on
offer; wellness services (massage, hair care, sauna, mineral
baths and pools); therapies including Feng Shui and Wu
Wei; business facilities and even a wedding service.
In terms of accommodation, four fairly diverse options are
available: the Vita (classy and modern), Higiea Vila (picturesque and serene), the Park (less expensive and pets are
allowed) and Spa Centre (the oldest - 1624 - and grandest).
Gastronomically speaking theres ample choice (three of
the four hotels have restaurants - Vita, Park, and Spa Centre). A great choice for health and relaxation.QDobrna 50,
Dobrna, tel. +386 (0)3 78 08 110, info@terme-dobrna.si,
www.terme-dobrna.si.
Terme Dolenjske Toplice
Located about 13km south west of Novo Mesto on the
edge of the expansive Koevje forests, Dolenjske Toplice
is a destination offering everything one needs to relax.
Dolenjske Toplices warm (36-38 C) calcium-rich waters
drawn from depths of 1000m are said to have healing
properties and we can attest to always feeling better after
a soak. Fancier hotels in town like the historic Kristal and
Vital hotels have their own thermal baths whilst most visitors head to the ultra-modern Balnea Wellness Centre spa
with indoor and outdoor thermal pools as well as a staggering array of baths and saunas. As for further indulgence
there is no shortage of fine restaurants or luxurious massage centres in town. The pristine forests which border the
town are also worth exploring - a relaxing endeavour so
long as you dont run into a bear.QZdraviliki Trg 7, Dolenjske Toplice, tel. +386 (0)7 39 19 400, www.termekrka.si.
Terme Radenci
Established over 125 years ago near the source of a mineral
water spring, the Radenci Health Resort has since grown
into a massive complex with over 1.5 square kilometres
of pools in all shapes, sizes and temperatures, an assortment of health and wellness programs, a modern business
centre and two hotels to accommodate the constant flow
of guests. However, if forced to name the highlight of our
stay, it would likely be a draw between two Ayurveda massages, Shiroabhyanga and Padabhyanga - we may not be
able to pronounce them properly, but weve never been
more blissfully relaxed. To get there, take the A5 east from
Maribor and look for the exit to Radenci after about 50km,
then continue about 15km north.QZdraviliko naselje 12,
Radenci, tel. +386 (0)25 20 27 20, fax +386 (0)25 20 27 23,
info@zdravilisce-radenci.si, www.zdravilisce-radenci.si.
PTHARUFLEGBKDCW
Directory
Terme Topolica
A cute but comfortable little spa, family waterpark and
wellness centre with hotel accommodation. More off the
beaten track than others, which means its peaceful and
relaxing, plus good if you want to ski (Golte is only 25 minutes away). Theres a medium-sized thermal pool which is
both indoor and outdoor (connected by a tunnel), warm
whirlpools and an indoor swimming pool. During the summer, a family waterpark with slides, fun pools and snack
bar opens and is connected to the main spa by wooden
bridge. Saunas plus extensive medical and therapeutic
treatments are offered in the wellness centre.QTopolica
77, otanj, tel. +386 (0)3 896 3100/+386 (0)3 896 3170,
info@t-topolsica.si, www.terme-topolsica.si.
Terme Zree
Going by the imaginative name of Idila, the wellness centre in Terme Zree is unsurprisingly idyllic. Bringing various
kinds of far-eastern therapy to Slovenia, you can choose
from such delights as Thai massage with herbs and/or oils,
Sawaddee massage, Ayodhaya, Hanakasumi or Ayurveda.
That being the first program, the second comprises a series
of enticingly named treats for two; ladies shall undoubtedly melt upon sight of a Divine Bath or at the thought of
Chocolate Dream Luxury (they also host weddings). Not
content with how you look? The Water Lily Pampering or
Green Coffee & Firm Skin are a couple of the many beauty
offerings here.QCesta na Roglo 15, Zree, tel. +386 (0)3
75 76 000, fax +386 (0)3 57 62 446, unitur@unitur.eu,
www.terme-zrece.eu.
Thermana Lako
Located side by side on the banks of the Savinja River, Lakos
two biggest hotel and spa centres - Wellness Park Lako and
Zdravilie Lako - give visitors a chance to choose between
tradition and modernity. Everything in the hotel is stylish and
modern, from the reception desks to the caf overlooking
the river, and the rooms have the look of luxury apartments.
Visitors looking to relax should check out the hotels thermal
centre, which is housed under a futuristic glass dome that can
be opened on warm days, as well as the sauna, wellness and
well-equipped fitness centres.
After working up an appetite with all that swimming and
working out, you can get a healthy meal at the hotels a la carte
restaurant or fill up at the buffet. This is definitely the place to
be when youre in need of some serious pampering. The fourstar Hotel Zdravilie, meanwhile, is the older and cheaper of
the two hotels and caters to a different crowd, mostly people
in need of rehabilitation. If a more traditional spa experience is
what youre after, Hotel Zdravilie is probably the better option. Lako is located roughly 85km east of Ljubljana and 15km
south of Celje, if youre without your own transport, all trains
from Ljubljana to Celje and Maribor stop at the main station.
QZdravilika 6, Lako, tel. +386 (0)3 423 20 00, fax +386
(0)3 423 20 10, info@thermana.si, www.thermana.si.
Many more spas online at

Hair Salons
RokSalonQStari Trg 4, tel. +386 (0)59 921 826, info@
roksalon.si, www.roksalon.si. Open 09:00 - 19:00, Sat
08:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Stevo QC-2, Trubarjeva 44, tel. +386 (0)1 431 51 38,
stevo@siol.net, www.stevo.si. Open 08:00 - 20:00, Sat
08:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
Hospitals & Clinics

Barsos-MC QB/C-4, Gregorieva 11, tel. +386 (0)12
42 07 00, fax +386 (0)1 242 07 44, www.barsos.net.
Open 08:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Health Centre Metelkova QF-2, Metelkova 9,
tel. +386 (0)1472 37 00, fax +386 (0)1472 38 90, center@
zd-lj.si, www.zd-lj.si.
Kirurki Sanatorij Rona Dolina QJ-4,
Rona Dolina IV/45, tel. +386 (0)1477 94 00, info@
kirurski-sanatorij.si, www.kirurski-sanatorij.si.
University Medical Centre Ljubljana QF/G-2,
Zaloka 2, tel. +386 (0)1522 50 50, info@kclj.si, www.kclj.si.
Ljubljanas colourful co-operative bank building
Mobitel QD-1, Vilharjeva 25, tel. +386 (0)1472 23 20,

info@mobitel.si, www.mobitel.si. Open 08:00 - 19:00,
Sat 08:00 - 12:30. Closed Sun.
Tumobil QJ-2, Brnieva 49, tel. +386 (0)80 700
700, www.tusmobil.si.
Laundry & Dry Cleaning
Vodafone SimobilQB-3, Preernov Trg, tel. +386

(0)1426 71 02, info@simobil.si, www.simobil.si. Open
08:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Femiks QE-2, Kotnikova 18, tel. +386 (0)1230 18 20,

femiks@amis.net. Open 08:00 - 19:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Pharmacies
Operi in Posui Ljubljanas first self-service laundry facilities are located in the Mercator centre shopping complex opposite the main northern entrance to BTC City. Washing cost
3, and drying is 1 for 20 minutes, and theres even free WiFi.
QM-2, Beblerjev Trg 2 (TC Mercator), tel. +386 (0)64 116
341, info@operiinposusi.si, operiinposusi.si. Open Mon-Fri
08:00-20:00, Sat 08:00-17:00 and Sun 08:00-12:00.
Libraries
City Library (Mestna Knjinica) The regional
library for central Slovenia is the most popular library in the
country, and has a wide range of English literature.QC-2, Kersnikova 2, tel. +386 (0)1 600 13 00, www.mklj.si. Open 08:00
- 20:00, Tue 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 08:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Central Pharmacy (Centralna Lekarna)

QD-3, Preernov Trg 5, tel. +386 (0)1230 61 00, lekarna.
ljubljana@lekarna-lj.si, www.lekarna-lj.si. Open 07:30 19:30, Sat 08:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun 1.5.-15.9. open Mon.
Fri 07:30-20:00.
Lekarna Ljubljana (Lekarna pri polikliniki) QF-2, Prisojna 7, tel. +386 (0)1230 61 00, lekarna.
poliklinika@lekarna-lj.si, www.lekarna-lj.si. Open 24hrs.
Lekarna Mikloi QD-2, Mikloieva 24, tel. +386
(0)1230 61 00, lekarna.miklosic@lekarna-lj.si, www.lekarnalj.si. Open 07:30 - 19:30, Sat 07:30 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Shoe repair
Narodna In Univerzitetna Knjinica (National & University Library) Home of Slovenias written cultural heritage, this well-organised library
is every researchers dream.QB-3, Turjaka 1, tel. +386
(0)1200 11 88, info@nuk.uni-lj.si, www.nuk.uni-lj.si.
Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
Ale Cevljar We cant honestly say we know much

about the art of mending shoes, but weve been going
to this guy for years now and hes never let us down. He
also charges so little that we almost feel guilty. Definitely
recommended!QE-2, Barvarska Steza 5, tel. +386 (0)40
241 282, ales.beljan@gmail.com. Open 08:00 - 17:00,
Sat 09:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Mobile Phones
Translators
Debitel Qelezna cesta 18, tel. +386 (0)1306 01 00,

center@debitel.si, www.debitel.si.
Alkemist QJ-2, Obirska 4, tel. +386 (0)1 514 16 78,

info@alkemist.si, www.alkemist.si.
Hotpoint chargerQtel. +386 (0)70 797 700, info@

hotpoint.si, www.hotpoint.si.
KibordQStranska Vas 17b, Dobrova pri Ljubljani, tel.

+386 (0)40 747 447, info@kibord.si, www.kibord.si.
87
TA
ES
AC
JSK
erinov
a
DU
NA
Poljane
OR
lj ev
Ga
LE
NJ
SK
ic a
CE
J ur
k
Golovec
413
Galjevica
ov
a
DO
Pe
r
33 LJ - Rudnik
PE
642
ZI
UZ
A
JEV
Iica
Be
LE
N
JS
KA
te t
t o va
Proca
Prem
rl ov a
Gornji Rudnik
CE ST
A
O VK A
Z A DO BR
ZA L O KA
Slape
Bra
ti
FUINE CASTLE
Ljubljanica
FUINE
L IT IJS K A C ES
TA
Zal oka
30 LJ - Bizovik
Spodnja Hruica
LI TI JS K A CE S T
A
645
Dobrunje
Bizovik
A1
rni hrib
440
Mazovnik
450
Dobrunjski hrib
429
32 LJ - south
Zgornji Kaelj
Veve
Zadvorski hrib
387
Spodnji Rudnik
J ur k ov a
Novo Polje
Rj ava
29 LJ - east
RUDNIK
NS Rudnik
Zadobrova
MC
Studenec
405
ST
A
26 LJ - Sneberje
Polje
Rjava
Hruevski hrib
uz
z
Ilovica
Rakovnik
SAVA
28 LJ - ind. zone Moste
ene c
Nove
Fuine
Zgornja Hruica
A
ST
Rakova
jela
rna vas
DO
Trnovo
ad
nik
ov
a
OV
JO
tepanja vas
ij e
va
Ia nska
ek
ar
sk
a
Op
Hl
Prule
LETALIKA CES TA
tepanjsko
naselje
Pr
ivo
HR
Lesko kov a
ka
Ja r
P O L JAN SKA
27 bifurcation Zadobrova
S t ud
SAV
R ozman ov a
et
ova
sl a vs ka
To
ma
e
v sk
ov
a
Vo
jk
zn a
ele
va
Kotni k
o
R ES L
M ik lo
JE VA
iev
a
J. Pa
vla II
.
Pov
CE
CE S TA
SK A
eva
Slo v
en
KA C
E STA
E NS
S LOV
OV
A
BLEIW
P re
ns ka
Kodeljevo
H3
Z ALO KA CESTA
HO
VA
A C EST
A
D U NAJSK
va
Ver ov
ko
A
ST
CE
KA
O JS
TR
OS
IT
SK
EN
Sa ttn
erjev a
m
Pod j
ezo
KL J
U
ZA
CN
TA
CES
KA
LO
A
K
RO Hr a deckeg a
a
sk
nd
IC
UL
Ljubljanica
VA
KA
GR Pr
ES ule
Zih erlov a
MY
EG
Sibirija
St
re
AL KV
1 LJ - Nove Jare
MOSTE
am
KARLO
V
Po
lja
LETALI K A
108
25 entjakob
Sn eb
ers ka
martno ob Savi
CE STA
BTC City
Sneberje
644
Cle
ve
la
eva
Kavi
Ophthalmology
Tabor
ESTA
KA C
T IN S
AR
M
NOVE
JARE
HO
Pol jan sk
A
IK
K
NI
108
Jare
NS K A
M AR TI
Zelena jama
Vodmat
Kom
enske
ga Ilirs ka
Krakovo
BG
Grabl ovi eva
M ASARYKOVA
Ob ze leni
NJE G O E VA C ES TA
ZO IS O V
VA
RT O
Savsko naselje
Gradaica
b a r j e
A
LI N H
TOP
MONOLIT
ULI
C
k
li
VA
Kranj
eva
Rehabilitation
Institute - Soa
VIL HARJEVA
CENTER
Murgle
sarjev
Podgorica
644
A1
JU
KA
I KA
Clinic of Respiratory
& Allergic Diseases
ale
Cemetery
L
PA
KO
PO
TO P
N
TA
A C ES
L j u b l j a n s k o
Sports park
Stoice
ER
E
Maribor, Austria
Z AS AVS K A C E S TA
Tomaevo
2 LJ - rnue
TA
TAJE R S K A CE S
OVA
IA NSK
Campsite
Path of Remembrance and Comradeship
PL
ova
Hospital
eva
estni log
VM
ska
1,5
ubi
VA
Vipav
Embassy
Kilometers
SAM
Stoice
Di miev
a
BEIGRAD
VOLSK A
TI
JE
AR
ska
SCALE 1:50,000
a
sk
R IH
ra n
J ad
a
Gerbiev
Dv eh
ce
Pos av ske
g
P arm
ova
TA
a
d ov
A K
SAVA
Hipodrom
Barag o
va
IL
d ve
Me
34 LJ - centre
od n
Vod ov
ka
r i
Go
ev
b
Brod
entjakob
3 LJ - Beigrad
AU
TIVOLI
A1
0,5
ES
A
ST
CE
Gas
Gas il ska
S
EI
t
e s
A1
LJUBLJANA CITY
0,25
KA
a
k r
R ILA
Rest area Barje north
37 Brezovica
Koper, Italy
AP
MK
va
Ja m o
Rest area Barje south

A
CEST
A KA
TR
V
LO
Mestni
log
35 LJ - west
Dveh ces a
rje
CE
C E STA N
A
de
ig a
br
C ES
rs ka
Kop
orice
VI
Dolgi most
III
27.
Tolstoj
eva
AZ IN
Ru
Nadgorica
104
ke
ns
lj a
TR
A
ST
CE
ta V
C es
A
A K
TR
KOVA
429
CE STA
I
C esta I
Vi k a
D RE N I
387
Rona
dolina
Kosovo polje
NA P OT
I
AM
AJ
Tivolski vrh
XV
V r ho v
ce
g a odr
ed a
36 bifurcation Kozarje
Majlond
409
Na
VRHOVCI
VG
Brdo
Na Brdo
Do
l om
itsk
e
Brinje
BA
ienski hrib
393
Bev kova
Mag is t rova
RO
Spodnja ika
Ronik
i si js k
Tbi l
Podsmerka
Glinica
ES
TA
Mostec
ka
a
Tr
Kozarje
rd
KO
VA
C
Hospital Dr.
Peter Draj
ZOO
Listostroj
NZ
ESTA
aV
Gradaica
ka
e
gn
Ste
t
Ces
OD
Bo
lce
EG
A
t za B
CL
Na
Bokalce
BOKALCE
CASTLE
Po
DN
I
MA
356
D
RE
DO
LO
M
IT
SK
ub
VO
A2
om
Tinica
641
Lj
S TA
CE
PH
Koseze
lc e
ok a
Na B
Jeica
Brnieva
la ndrov a
7. S ep tem
b ra
H3
5 LJ - ind. zone ika
6 LJ - north
IKA
Koseze Pond
Gri
Horjulica
ria
Lav
15 bifurcation Koseze
441
i ca
. j un ija
KAJ U
B i ten
A
K
TA
Klobuk
PE
OV
8 LJ - Podutik
7 LJ - Dravlje
ES
Je
Savlje
L
CE
Podutik
AC
TA
P O D UT I K
o rja
Majrs ka
ada
K av
ES
Glinica
S avlje
F
24
4 LJ - Savlje
Dravlje
AC
OV
Pranec
P o du tika
e
am
ova
n an
Kore
NT
384
Kamna gorica
GE
Strmica
A2
Dolnice
J. J
A
OV
IK
RE
ca
ja
d re
An
16 LJ - Brdo
Klee
O BV
O Z NA
eve
t ler j
Pranj
439
Av iev
a
HU
Strani vrh
entvid
518
Glinica
Kranj, Austria
Poljane
Airport
14 LJ-entvid
e rn
o va
Velika trata
a
ke Z
U r
NS KA
Savel js k
a
B
Gunclje
B ARJA
31 bifurcation Malence
Novo Mesto
Croatia
A2
Orle
ov
a
TI
NS
AR
T INSKA CESTA
Stomatology
e rsk
T
ES
Hradec
tov
a
Sk e
tko
va
Korytkova
a nici
jubl j
0,05
es
kega c
Str
o
ije v
up
ta
LJUBLJANA CENTRE
0,1
Povetova
PO LJANSKA CESTA
pu
Ka
Gruber Canal
2
Maternity
Hospital
Poton ikova
Ob L
so v
AC
K
RO
TA
CES Neurology
ka
an ovs
rm
ip
ot
e
a jm
l
a
ev
rj
Institute of Oncology
H
D
Ljubljanica
Gynacology
Brej
eva
lj em
ko
v
Traumatology
l ica
K um
Jap ljev
a
ZALO K A
iko v
au
St
Ko
ry
M
ska
rti
n
ma
PH entpeter
B
n
i
Bohorieva
utarjevo n ab re je
Z a rn
Z em
Mo
ov a
University
Medical Centre
Out-patient
Clinic
Ambroev
trg PH Ambroev trg
Zd ra
vst v
en
St. Joseph
KA
Novakova
St. Peter
Polj an s ki na s ip
lg a
rs
ka
Emergency
Service
Hrvatski trg
Vrazov trg
Bo
Pediatrics
PH Meksiko
Tab or
Rozm anov
a
re
j
Grablovieva
Jenk
ivinozdravska
z a Pa
vla I
I.
Infectious
Diseases
Gastroenterology
NJEGOEVA CESTA
a
va u lic
Mais tro
Mete
Usnjarska
a Ges trino
va
ec
va
ie
an
Jane
OD GR ADOM
Orlov vrh
Ja n
e
rm
CE
ST
A
Pr
Te
ap
sa
rs
ro
ka
tn
iko
va
lko va
Ko tni
kova
ulica
ns
ka
vd
a
Vi
do
Stro s
s m ay
Osoj n
a s te z
pe
ev
a
lic
a
So
v. k
me k
ih up
o
Ci
m
r tomirova
ele
zna
CES
TA
Kastel eva
t ov s ka
en
Za
gle
d
Raz
po
Vrtna
Pri Brv i
d re v
Vego
va
sta
Emon ska ce
erjev
M ala uli c
a
va
Ca nka
rjev
o
CE
SLO
VEN
S KA
RESL
JEVA
Ko lo
dvo r
sk a
o ie
va
M ikl
in a
a a
A jd ov
Hrib
a
STA
Pr
ul
i
a
sk
sk
ar
ar
on
v
Z
el
i k
au
de
o r ed
STA
DUN
AJSK
A CE
a
le tov
C iga
SLO
VEN
SK
ova
dal
ik a
Gle
Be e
ke
rajs
r no g
J. Tu
NSKA C
ESTA
iko va
PREDOR P
va
i e
va
up
an
tho v
ze js k
nov
Pre
eva
Mu
sorj
Valv
a
OVA
ERN
BARJA
vst
ikov
a
va
s ta
ova
ce
ern
BL
T
PRE
ni k
Sne
Mu rn
Vo
prav
v
ro
KA
RL
OV
K
Clinic for Child
ab
Kolinska
M esarska
Sta r
Pr is o
jn
Tru bar j ev a
ta
ev
r
St
a
ov
r en
ov
k
ov
on
Poljansk
a ces
teza
as
sk
ki
Pe
tk
a ta lc
Fr ik o
v
Vrhoveva
Ilirska
U lic
ME
Etnographic
Tabor
MA R
a p ot
a r
je
L on
a
r ie v
Barvarska steza
Vogelna
Ro
rs
da k
G r ajs
St. Florian
Levstikov
trg Ro n a
So
l
te
Eip p rov
G rad
i ja
Gradaica
Os o j na pot
Pr
St. Jacob
John the Baptist
Ren a
Na
Gornji trg
jak
Kolezij s k a
Grada ka
S tika
b re
o na
Fin garjeva
Krakovska
eva
Emona House
t arj
Kopi
ZOISOV
A
n i ka
er
Reb
Stari
trg
eza
a st
K riev
railway
Virtual
ul ica
NP
Krist an
ov a
a
ot
lan
Virgin Mary
Geographical
S a lendrova
kova
Trubarje va
PH Vila
Urbana
VA
ap
ka Trg francoske City

revolucije
a ja
lic a
Na S
tolb
Cable
i
PH Taborski
dvor
Sacred Heart
Kapite ljska
jsk
FR
Turjaka
d
tu Krekov trg
PH Metelkova
Tabor
PH Kapitelj
IE
NL
Sports
Vodnikov
trg
Slo m
va
Gr
SC
Klep arska
a
Juriev k a Vo dn
Novi trg
G ru dn ov
CZ
vo
ov ko
Petk Dragon
Bridge
LJUBLJANA CASTLE a
Shoemakers'
Bridge
LT
va
va g erje
e
in
c
en
M
Tru ba rjeva
steza
Soteska
R im s
nelov
a
ufa
r je
e nsk
e ga u
MASARYKOVA CESTA
DK
PH Komenskega
House of Experiments
Dolni arjeva
ie
Pete
r
zna
de
Kla
un
li
du
r
Ig
aG
i k rad
AKE
REV
A
A
JEV
AR
RIH
a
hov
ova
a
ul i c
va
Zvezd a r ska
ova
dri
UA
l
Tes
Mirje
TA
CES
VA
i po
gu s
La n
H aj
A. Toscanini
s ta
L ep
ce
ova
Jam
Rimska
Mali trg
Franciscan
od
CY
Pre
Preernov trg
ovo
va
i-L u ndr
fo
LU
Triple Bridge Adam
Pogaarjev
trg
PH Kongresni trg
ko Cathedral
BR
Ma
Ciril-Metodov
Slo. School
trg
Ribji trg
i
Holy Trinity Zvezda park
History
ajam
ogr
Kl ju
Kongresni trg
v
i
n
O
k
i
avn
K roja iars ka
ka
Kratka
Mestni trg
steza
Dvorni Slo. National Theatre
na
trg
reh
Vr tna
IT
JE
AR
OH
GR
vj
i e
Trg mlad.
delovnih brigad
Bortnikov
trg
ova
va
CS
K om
a
n
va
a
Vol
TA
CES
o r i
eva
op
orje
Ga llusovo
n o
A
AK
a
Tob
G re g
Kna
fljev
p
ka
ID
Vrt
a
SK
Er jav
e
Na z
r
ev lj a
OVA
j ns
Cankar Hall
ZA
idovsk a
B LE IWE IS
sto
Le
Tobacco
TR
Or a
Po
lin
ERJ
AV
EVA
ana
ob
Trg republike
PT
BE
MX
KR
AO Nebotinik
TH
rje va
Mikloi park
Dalm
atino
va
SE NO
LV FI
a
j ev
a
jev
o
od
JP
CA
CH
GB
va
TRAIN STATION
u fa
rjeva
slom
re
Za
ta r
sta
o
vR
AT
Ves e
lo va
Ta v
a
Argentina park
Tom
ie
va
PH ubieva
Trdi
nova
no v
a
PH Trdinova
r
it a
S tr
ca
je v
Ce
National
Ru
u li
ek l
tr
a
e v
rab
ka rj
e
Natural History
ub DE
i eva
7 . AP
RILA
National gallery
Opera
ET
SK
akov
na
re
CES
TA 2
te fa
Ca n
OS
V
P ra
Ob
US
va
P re
Ortodox
RU
Po d tu rn o m
Puha
rje
Evangelical
iho
EI S
OV
AC
ES
piev
o s pr
e ha j
ali
e
EIW
Ja ko
TA
International Centre of Graphic arts
TIVOLI MANSION
Bogii
e va
GO
SP
MT
Hacquetova
VILHARJEVA CESTA
BUS STATION
Slo. Cinematheque
PH Kozolec
Convention Centre
Trg osvobodilne
fronte
s nik
TIVOLI PARK
rakova
Ke r
Vo n
ja
ko va
Gas
Par m
o
A CESTADK
LSK
VO
I
T
D vo
DLjubljana Exhibition and
W
rjev ol
o
Parking
B re g
City bus stops
l n i ka
zarj e
va
Krakovski nasip
Bicike(LJ) station
A
ST
CE
Church
Ku
ri
Liko
Conteporary History
CEKIN MANSION
L ivaTR
rs ka
KA
Museum
arnik
ov
P iv
Brewery
pas
Hospital
Tivoli Hall
sk
Ru
V
LO
CE
Post Office
sk a
ES Embassy
C
a
Tourist Info Office
G osp o
SCALE 1:10,000
0,2
Pot n a G olovec
0,3
Kilometers
0,4
MONOLIT

Ljubljana

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Ljubljana

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Maps Events Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels

Argentino / martinska 152 (BTC) / 1000 Ljubljana / Slovenija

www.argentino.si / mobile: +386 31 600 900

Arrival & Transport 8

Culture & Events

The idyllic Ljubljanica lazily drifts through the centre of town

Embassies & Expats 76

Brdo Pri Kranju 82

Maps & Index

Dubrovnik and Neretva County Tourist Board

City centre map

Ljubljanas graceful city hall

October - November 2014

Summer is done here in Ljubljana, and whilst well still

6 Ljubljana In Your Pocket

We have come a long way in the 22

U Facilities for the disabled

R LAN connection 6 Pet-friendly

J Old town location

Crime and safety

Slovenia adopted the euro in January 2007. Euro coins come

P Air conditioning A Credit cards accepted

Best Airport Transport 2014

Best Airport Shuttle

Arriving & Getting Around

We recently had the pleasure of chatting to Marko

First things first, congratulations from everyone

Do you get to travel much yourself, or even see

October - November 2014

Arriving & Getting Around

Arriving & Getting Around

A Word From Our Mayor

For me, Ljubljana is the

modernised, so most of the time you can expect a comfortable

that anxiety away, offering a comfortable shuttle service

Centre at the intersection of Zaloka and Njegoeva

Culture & Events

24th Biennial of Design

Live Music in October

Live Music in November

3 Oct - Cirkusz-KA @ Prulek

4 Nov - Han Bennink & Uri Caine @ Cankarjev

5 Oct - Girl Band @ Kino ika

5 Nov - Uro Bari @ Ljubljana Castle

6 Oct - Entombed A.D @ Gala Hala

6 Nov - Michael Buble @ Stoice Sports Park

9 Oct - Zavoloka & Laetitia Morais @ Kino ika

8 Nov - Dr John & The Nite Trippers @ Kino ika

10 Oct - Dillon @ Kino ika

8 Nov - Merchandise @ Channel Zero

11 Oct - Enter Shikari @ Kino ika

11 Nov - Antoine Berjeaut @ Cankarjev Dom

12 Oct - Future Islands @ Kino ika

13 Nov - Blue Subscription @ Cankarjev Dom

16 Oct - Swans @ Kino ika

16 Nov - One Republic @ Stoice Sports Park

19 Oct - Monkey3 @ Klub Gromka

18 Nov - Triggerfinger @ Cvetliarna

20 Oct - Liars @ Kino ika

23 Nov - Vocal Subscription @ Slovenska

23 Oct - Within Destruction @ Klub Gromka

25 Nov - Neca Falk @ Cankarjev Dom

24 Oct - Helmet @ Kino ika

27 Nov - Einsturzende Neubauten @ Kino ika