11 Wonderful Things to Do in Summer in Ljubljana, Slovenia
Your Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Summer in Ljubljana
Summer in Ljubljana effortlessly blends history, nature, and culture into one relaxed, inviting experience. The added bonus? This is an experience most travelers don’t think of when planning their summer adventure in Europe.
As you stroll down cobblestone streets, the scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air, and the sounds of live music echo from nearby cafés. Summer in Ljubljana isn’t just a season; it’s truly a vibe that flows through every street, square, and park.
From outdoor cinemas under the stars to kayaking along the Ljubljanica River, there’s something for everyone when the weather warms up. Whether you’re into local beers, live performances, or just relaxing in a park, Ljubljana has it all. So, grab a drink, slip on your shades, and let’s dive into all the incredible things you can do in Ljubljana under the summer sun!
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Quick List: Best Things to Do in Ljubljana in Summer
Before we get into the details, here’s a quick rundown of the must-see and must-do activities during summer in Ljubljana:
- Kayaking on the Ljubljanica River
- Visit Ljubljana Castle
- Chill at Tivoli Park
- Explore the Ljubljana Old Town
- Catch a Show at the Križanke Outdoor Cinema
- Attend the Laško Beer Festival
- Stroll Through the Open Kitchen Food Market
- Tour the Ljubljana Zoo
- Hike to Rožnik Hill
- Catch a Performance at the Ljubljana Festival
- Day Trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle
How to Spend the Perfect Summer in Ljubljana:
- Enjoy a blend of events, culture, history, and nature – Ljubljana offers a relaxed vibe with outdoor cinemas, kayaking on the Ljubljanica River, and vibrant summer festivals. Don’t miss the chance to experience the city’s iconic Ljubljana Festival.
➡️ Book your Ljubljana walking tours with GetYourGuide - Ideal for outdoor adventures – Hike to Rožnik Hill for great views and a relaxing nature escape. Alternatively, take part in the Tour of Slovenia, a world-class cycling event passing through the region in June.
➡️ Rent bikes for your own adventure with GetYourGuide - Explore local food and drinks – The Open Kitchen food market and various beer festivals like the Laško Beer Festival are perfect ways to taste your way through Ljubljana.
➡️ Find amazing town center accommodation with Booking.com - Weather in Ljubljana during summer – Expect warm weather with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). It’s perfect for outdoor activities, but always carry a bottle of water for sudden heat waves.
11 Ways to Enjoy Summer in Ljubljana
1. Kayaking on the Ljubljanica River
One of the most refreshing and fun ways to experience the heart of Ljubljana in the summer is by kayaking along the Ljubljanica River. Trust me, paddling down the river gives you a completely different perspective of the city.
You’ll float past charming bridges, medieval buildings, and lush greenery, all while getting a little bit of exercise (if you’re up for it, of course). There are several rental stations along the river, so it’s easy to hop in and get going.
It’s not just an activity; it’s an experience that combines adventure and sightseeing in one go (shoutout to all the multitaskers).
2. Visit Ljubljana Castle
No trip to Ljubljana is complete without visiting its iconic medieval castle, and summer is the perfect time to make your way to the top. Whether you choose to walk up or take the funicular (which runs every 10 minutes), you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city.
While at the castle, you can explore the permanent exhibitions, grab a drink at one of the on-site restaurants, or just enjoy the summer breeze on the castle’s terrace. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even catch a live performance or film screening here during the summer months.
3. Chill at Tivoli Park
If you need a break from all the sightseeing, Tivoli Park is the place to go. Ljubljana’s largest park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or even a peaceful afternoon reading under a tree.
There are hidden paths, tranquil ponds, and plenty of green space to unwind. If you’re into art, make sure to visit the International Centre of Graphic Arts located within the park, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this urban oasis.
It’s a great spot to slow down and enjoy the beauty of nature right in the city.
4. Explore the Ljubljana Old Town
In the summer, Ljubljana’s Old Town comes alive and in our opinion, is hands down the best time to enjoy it. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with vibrant cafés, quaint boutiques, and plenty of street performers to keep you entertained.
The charm of the Old Town is undeniable, with its mix of medieval architecture, baroque buildings, and contemporary spaces
Don’t forget to check out Ljubljana’s many beautiful bridges, especially the Triple Bridge and the Dragon Bridge, which are perfect for a summer photo op.
5. Catch a Show at the Križanke Outdoor Cinema
If you’re a fan of films and fresh air, make sure to visit the Križanke Summer Theatre. During the summer months, this historic venue hosts a variety of outdoor movie screenings, classical music concerts, and theatrical performances.
Imagine watching a classic film under the stars in a beautiful medieval courtyard – it’s a one-of-a-kind experience. The Križanke Theatre is one of Ljubljana’s cultural gems, and summer is the best time to enjoy the performances it offers.
6. Attend the Laško Beer Festival
For beer lovers, the Laško Beer Festival is an absolute must during summer in Ljubljana. Held annually in July, this festival is the perfect opportunity to sample some of Slovenia’s best craft beers while enjoying live music and a lively atmosphere.
You’ll find a variety of local brews from Laško and beyond, and you might even discover a new favorite beer. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just in it for the vibes, this festival is a highlight of Ljubljana’s summer calendar.
7. Stroll Through the Open Kitchen Food Market
Foodies, rejoice! The Open Kitchen (Odprta Kuhna) food market is one of the best ways to experience the culinary side of Ljubljana. Every Friday, from March to November, the central square of Pogačarjev trg transforms into a food lover’s paradise.
Local chefs serve up a variety of dishes, from Slovenian specialties to international cuisine. It’s a great place to sample local flavors, enjoy a cold drink, and soak in the bustling atmosphere of Ljubljana.
Bonus: There are also live music performances to add to the excitement!
8. Tour the Ljubljana Zoo
If you’ve got a bit of extra time, why not head to the Ljubljana Zoo? It’s not your typical zoo – the animals are housed in lush, green environments that blend seamlessly with the surrounding nature.
You can spend a relaxing afternoon here, exploring the exhibits and learning about the diverse wildlife that calls the zoo home. Plus, the zoo’s location on the edge of Tivoli Park makes it easy to combine your visit with a stroll in the park afterward.
9. Hike to Rožnik Hill
For those who love a little adventure, Rožnik Hill offers one of the best hiking routes in Ljubljana. Located near Tivoli Park, it’s an easy-to-moderate hike that rewards you with beautiful views of the city and the surrounding nature.
If you’re feeling energetic, it’s also a great spot for a jog or a bike ride. After your hike, you can cool down at the nearby café and take in the scenic surroundings.
Bonus: If you’re in Ljubljana during June, you might get to catch a glimpse of the Tour of Slovenia, a prestigious cycling competition that passes through the area. The race, which features some of the world’s best cyclists, offers heart-pounding climbs and exhilarating descents.
10. Catch a Performance at the Ljubljana Festival
The Ljubljana Festival is one of the city’s biggest cultural events, running from July to August. To put it lightly, it’s a BIG DEAL for the city.
With a variety of performances ranging from opera and ballet to jazz and classical music, there’s something for everyone at this festival. Many of the performances take place in open-air venues like Ljubljana Castle and Congress Square, so you can enjoy world-class entertainment under the summer sky.
It’s a fantastic and likely the most memorable way to immerse yourself in Ljubljana’s vibrant cultural scene.
11. Day Trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle
For a day trip outside of Ljubljana, don’t miss Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, two of Slovenia’s most captivating wonders. Just a short drive away, you’ll start by exploring the stunning Postojna Cave, home to the unique “human fish” and awe-inspiring stalagmites.
Your guide will explain the fascinating geological history of the cave as you wander through its underground beauty. Given the nature of staying cool in a cave, it’s an amazing activity for summer in Ljubljana in particuar!
Next, head to Predjama Castle, a medieval fortress dramatically built into a cliffside. Admire its Renaissance architecture and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
FAQs Visiting Ljubljana in Summer
What are the best summer festivals in Ljubljana?
The best summer festivals in Ljubljana include the Ljubljana Festival, the Laško Beer Festival, the Ljubljana Jazz Festival, and the Open Kitchen Food Market. Each offers something unique, from live music and food to theatrical performances and craft beer.
What can I do on a hot summer day in Ljubljana?
On a hot summer day, you can cool off by kayaking on the Ljubljanica River, enjoying a relaxing afternoon at Tivoli Park, or visiting the Ljubljana Zoo. You could also take a boat ride on the river or catch an outdoor movie at Križanke Summer Theatre.
What is the best way to explore Ljubljana in summer?
The best way to explore Ljubljana in summer is by foot, taking leisurely walks through the Old Town, or by bike, cruising along the city’s cycling paths. You can also explore the city from the water by renting a kayak or taking a boat tour on the Ljubljanica River.
Are there outdoor movie screenings in Ljubljana during summer?
Yes! The Križanke Summer Theatre hosts outdoor movie screenings during the summer months, along with live performances and classical music concerts. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Ljubljana in the warmer months.
Final Thoughts
Summer in Ljubljana is a special time – a season where the city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning nature come together in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re kayaking down the river, enjoying a craft beer at a festival, or catching a live performance in a historic venue, there’s no shortage of things to do.
The laid-back vibe and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal summer destination for anyone looking to experience the heart of Slovenia.
So, ditch the typical cities of Europe’s top destinations and get ready to enjoy all the sunshine, culture, and adventure that Ljubljana has to offer instead.
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Travel Resources for Summer in Ljubljana
☔️ TRAVEL INSURANCE: EKTA or VisitorsCoverage
✈️ FLIGHTS: Skyscanner, CheapOair or Kiwi.com
🚙 CAR RENTALS: Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com
🚊 TRAINS & BUSES: Busbud, Trainline or Omio
🛳 FERRIES: Direct Ferries
🛌 ACCOMMODATION: Booking.com, Agoda or Trivago
☎️ ESIM / CELL PHONE DATA: Airalo
📸 TOURS & ACTIVITIES: GetYourGuide or Viator
