Five off the beaten track sights in Ljubljana

Jan Cejvan • March 27, 2025

Ljubljana's lesser know sights

Ljubljana, Slovenia's capital, is filled with charming hidden gems beyond its well known attractions.

Here are five off the beaten track sights to explore:


1. Jože Plečnik House


A short walk from the city center, this house was designed by Jože Plečnik, a famous Slovenian architect who left his mark on much of Ljubljana. The house is a fascinating glimpse into his life and work. 
Plečnik's influence on Ljubljana transcends mere architecture; it encompasses urban planning, landscaping, and even cultural identity.


Plečnik's vision for Ljubljana was deeply rooted in its history, culture, and natural surroundings. He seamlessly integrated elements of Slovenian tradition and classical architecture into his designs, creating a unique aesthetic that's distinctly Ljubljana's own. His reverence for materials like stone and his meticulous attention to detail imbued his works with a timeless quality.


One of Plečnik's most notable contributions to Ljubljana is the renovation of its public spaces and riverbanks. He transformed the city's waterfront, enhancing its beauty and accessibility while preserving its historical character. His iconic Triple Bridge, with its distinctive balustrades and elegant lines, has become a symbol of the city


2. Picnic at Tivoli Park

Enjoy a leisurely day in nature at Tivoli Park, one of Ljubljana's most beloved green spaces. Pack a delightful picnic using the Riverside Apartment's picnic basket available for guests, and fill it with goodies from the Ljubljana Central Market in the morning. Venture off the main paths to discover hidden ponds and secluded picnic spots within the park. Don't miss the Jakopič Promenade for panoramic views of the city - in front of the Jakopic gallery.


3. Nebotičnik Skyscraper


While not entirely obscure, Nebotičnik (the Skyscraper) offers breathtaking panoramic views of Ljubljana from its rooftop terrace. It's often overshadowed by Ljubljana Castle, but ascending to its top floor rewards you with a unique perspective of the city skyline, especially during sunset or at night.


The Nebotičnik Cafe, located on the top of the Nebotičnik (Skyscraper) building, a venerable example of architecture between the two World Wars, affords some of the most beautiful views of Ljubljana opening out in all directions. A classic Slovenian pop song titled Na vrhu Nebotičnika (On Top of the Skyscraper) describes a visit to the café at the top of the building as a romantic experience par excellence.


Built in 1933 to designs by Vladimir Šubic, the Skyscraper was the tallest building on the Balkans and the ninth tallest building in Europe at the time of its construction. Next to the Skyscraper an even taller residential building with Ljubljana's first modern shopping arcade was envisaged but never realised.


The slightly above 70-metre high Skyscraper was built on the model of American skyscrapers and equipped with several technical novelties of the time, including fast lifts, air conditioning and fuel oil central heating. 


The Skyscraper still serves its original purpose: it houses various shops, business offices and, on the 6th to 9th floors, residential flats.


4. Krizanke Summer Theatre

Located within the complex of the former Cistercian monastery 200m from Riverside apartment, this open-air theater stages a program of opera, ballet, and drama performances during the summer months.


Between 1952 and 1956, the architect Jože Plečnik converted this former monastery of the Teutonic Order, originally built in the thirteenth century, into one of the city’s main cultural venues.


The outdoor Summer Theatre, with a capacity of 1,400, regularly hosts concerts of various types and is one of the main venues for the summer Ljubljana Festival.


The conversion of the Križanke complex was Plečnik’s last project. It also marked the completion of his extensive restyling of French Revolution Square (Trg francoske revolucije) and nearby Vegova Ulica. A monument to Napoleon’s Illyrian Provinces, designed by the sculptor Lojze Dolinar, was erected in the square next to Križanke in 1929.


5. Špica

Tucked away at the confluence of the Ljubljanica and Gradaščica rivers, Špica is a peaceful riverside spot favored by locals for picnics and leisurely strolls. Relax on the grassy banks, watch the boats glide by, or admire the view of Ljubljanica river from a different perspective.


The park's name, Špica, translates as 'pointed tip' and refers to the embankment's pointed shape. In the past, Špica was a town beach. Due to its pleasant green surroundings and a large area paved with wood, it still attracts numerous residents and visitors wanting to bask in the sun on fine weather days.


Next to Špica, a new 38-metre long bridge referred to as Hladnik's Footbridge was constructed in 2009. The bridge connects the city with a green suburban area, the location of the Ljubljana Botanic Garden. The bridge, with its super-lightweight structure, is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists.


These hidden gems offer a glimpse into Ljubljana's diverse cultural and natural landscape, away from the crowds, allowing you to experience the city's hidden treasures at your own pace.