Ljubljana

The first university was founded in 1595 and, in 1701, the world’s oldest philharmonic developed, involving masters like Beethoven, Haydn and Brahms. The influences of the baroque, which harmonizes perfectly with the Art Nouveau in the city centre, can still be felt: fancy houses and bridges, pastel-coloured villas and gorgeous palaces are the best proof. A considerable number of these masterpieces originate from the Slovene architect Jože Plecnik, who influenced his native city with an unobtrusive elegance.

A walk should start in the Old Town, which is almost free of cars and offers a cosy ambience. Its gate is the Prešernov trg, the central square of Ljubljana, where a monument reminds us of the famous poet Prešeren. Passing by the baroque Franciscan church and the richly decorated Art Nouveau houses, the way leads over the elegant, fan-shaped triple bridge of Tromostovje. While crossing, the Pogacar trg and the unique market halls on the riverbank catch the eye. Here, it is very vibrant on Saturday mornings, when people young and old stroll along the colonnades and buy or taste local delectabilities, such as fresh fruits or vegetables, Pršut ham, sheep cheese or the famous Štrekli.

After passing the busy Vodnik trg, a steep lane leads to the hill with the castle, where a fantastic view of the roofs enthuses visitors. The castle dates back to the time of the Habsburgs and presents a virtual tour through the historical epochs of Ljubljana in the integrated museum.

At the base of the hill, long stretched squares lead to the baroque town hall with the opulent fountain, before the ramble finally ends in an imperial café, an Italian bar or a cosy inn.
But there is no end following this tour through the Old town: The university quarter, the old fishing quarter of Krakovo with its rural character, the Tivoli park with its palace and numerous galleries and museums await a visit. Lovers of art, architecture, archaeology or the railway will be fascinated by the comprehensive collections.