A budget weekend in Ljubljana: Discovering Slovenia's green capital

Ljubljana, Slovenia's charming and eco-friendly capital, is a perfect destination for a budget weekend getaway. Whether you're into history, nature, or unique experiences, the city offers something for everyone. Here's how I spent my affordable yet enriching weekend in Ljubljana.

Getting There: Affordable Travel

My journey began with an early flight from Luton, arriving at Ljubljana’s small but efficient airport. From there, the number 28 bus ride into the city centre cost just one euro and took about 45 minutes. It’s a quick and inexpensive way to get from the airport to the heart of Ljubljana and runs once every hour.

Exploring the City

Ljubljana is a walkable city that’s easy to explore on foot. Unfortunately, due to the weather, my planned city centre tour was cancelled. However, this gave me the opportunity to wander at my own pace and discover hidden gems.

I stumbled upon a lovely souvenir shop that supports disabled artisans, where I picked up a few handmade trinkets. The shop is a great example of Ljubljana’s commitment to inclusivity and local craftsmanship, and it’s a must-visit if you’re looking for unique, budget-friendly gifts.

Afterward, I made my way to Ljubljana Castle, a landmark that offers both history and incredible views of the city. Entry to the castle costs around 13 euros, and while you can walk up (which is free), there are also buses available for a small fee if you prefer a less strenuous option. I spent most of the afternoon exploring the castle and its exhibitions, learning about Ljubljana’s rich past.

The castle’s panoramic view of the city is worth the trek, and it’s a great way to experience Ljubljana’s beauty from above.

Night-time strolls & dining

As the evening approached, I took a leisurely walk along the Ljubljanica River, which winds through the city centre. Ljubljana truly comes alive at night, with its illuminated bridges and vibrant restaurant scene. The riverside is lined with cafes and bars offering affordable options for a casual meal or drink.

Some popular budget restaurants in Ljubljana include Špajza for delicious traditional Slovenian dishes at reasonable prices, and Gostilna As for a nice selection of local and Mediterranean food.

Where to stay: Hostel Celica

For accommodation, I stayed at Hostel Celica, a unique and budget-friendly option. The hostel used to be a prison, and many of the rooms are designed with artistic and historical themes. While you can opt for a shared room (starting at around 25 euros a night), I decided to splurge a little and book a private room for around 50 euros a night, which also included breakfast. Hostel Celica is a great base for exploring Ljubljana, offering both affordability and a quirky atmosphere.

Other places you could visit

While I had a packed schedule, there are plenty of other things you could explore on a budget in Ljubljana:

Tivoli Park: A beautiful green space perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. Free to enter.
Dragon Bridge: A symbol of Ljubljana, the bridge features impressive dragon statues. A great photo spot, and totally free.
National Museum of Slovenia: Entry costs around 8 euros, and you’ll find fascinating exhibits on Slovenia’s history and culture.
Metelkova City: A vibrant cultural centre that’s a must-visit for art lovers. Entry is free, and you can explore the unique street art and creative spaces.

A Day Trip to Lake Bled

The next day, I caught a bus to Lake Bled, about an hour’s journey from Ljubljana. A round-trip bus ticket costs around 12 euros, making it an affordable day trip.

Once there, I treated myself to a slice of the famous Bled cream cake for about 3 euros.

I then took a traditional pletna boat to Bled Island for 14 euros, where I explored the island’s church and marveled at the serene surroundings. The boat ride was a memorable experience and well worth the cost.

Afterward, I visited Bled Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the lake. The castle entry fee is around 13 euros, and the views from the top are breathtaking. If you’re lucky, you may even catch live music performances during the summer months, which add an extra charm to the visit.

Final thoughts: A perfect budget getaway

Ljubljana is a perfect city for budget travel, with plenty of free activities, low-cost attractions, and affordable accommodation options. Whether you're exploring the city's historic castle, wandering through its green parks, or enjoying a traditional Slovenian meal, there’s no need to break the bank.

Rough costs for the weekend:

Flight (return from Luton): Approx. £50-£100 (depending on the time of booking)
Bus from the airport: 1 euro each way
Accommodation at Hostel Celica: £41 per night for a private room (includes breakfast)
Ljubljana Castle entry: £11
Bled day trip (bus + boat to the island): £22
Food and drinks: Budget meals can be set at £8-£10 per meal

Total cost: £140-£190 per person

If you're looking for a short, budget-friendly trip filled with history, culture, and stunning scenery, Ljubljana should be at the top of your list. Have you visited Ljubljana or Lake Bled? Share your experiences or any tips in the comments below!