What To Do Solo in Ljubljana: Travel Guides for Females

If you are thinking about planning a trip to Ljubljana solo, you might be thinking – is it safe? After my visit to the area, I can confidently answer this question!

When I first heard about Ljubljana, I wondered about the safety of Slovenia for a solo female traveler, especially since it isn’t as well-known as destinations like Greece or Italy.

However, after visiting Slovenia’s capital in October, I’m delighted to report that it is an excellent choice for solo women travelers.

What Makes Ljubljana a Great Destination For Solo Females?

First of all, English is widely spoken, making it easy to communicate. The old town is very small and manageable to see in only a couple of days.

Unlike many European capitals, I found Ljubljana rather affordable, welcoming, and diverse yet not too touristy. It is also really clean and felt very safe. Throughout my trip, I had no worries or questions regarding my safety.

Since affordability and safety are of the utmost importance for picking a solo destination, you can see why Ljubljana makes the cut.

Ljubljana is located in the country of Slovenia, in Central Europe. It is bordered by Austria to the north, Italy to the west, Hungary to the east, and Croatia to the south.

It also has easy access to other cities throughout Europe through its two international airports – Jože Pučnik Airport International Airport (LJU) and Maribor Airport International Airport( MBX). When I visited I took a bus by myself from Zagreb, Croatia.

Ljubljana is the capital and largest city in Slovenia, with a population of around 300,000 people. It is known as one of the most livable cities in Europe and was recently named by Forbes magazine as one of the best cities for solo travelers.

After seeing pictures of this magical little place, I decided I had to visit!

Getting Around Ljubljana Alone

Public transportation is often the best way to get around any city. I found public transit to be an easy and cost-effective way to get around Ljubljana. The city has a modern public transport system, which includes buses, trams, and trains.

There are also plenty of bicycle rentals available for those who prefer to explore the city on two wheels. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city and can be called directly or booked through an app.

Although it is generally safe to walk around by yourself during the day, it is always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

All the transit info for Ljubljana can be found here.

• iPhone Transit App for Ljubljana
• Google Play App for Ljubljana transit

For reference, the main bus station & train station are located a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

For taxis or ride share, DOWNLOAD Hopin Taxi there is no UBER or Lyft in Slovenia.

✈️ Need an airport transfer? I found this service that be reliable, and affordable!

How Many Days Should You Spend Solo in Ljubljana?

There is so much to see and do in Ljubljana that you could easily spend a week or even two exploring the city. But, if you are short on time, three days would be enough to cover the essential attractions.

During my short stay, I spent time exploring the Old Town with its narrow streets and charming buildings, the iconic Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge, Ljubljana Castle located on top of a hill overlooking the city center, and the Central Market.

Additionally, you can take day trips to nearby attractions such as Lake Bled and Postojna Cave for a truly unforgettable experience.

I really loved the vibrant culture, friendly locals, safe environment, and abundance of beautiful sites in Ljubljana. It is the perfect destination for a solo female traveler!

What are the most important safety tips for solo travelers in Ljubljana?

Is Slovenia safe? The short answer is YES! Just remember when traveling alone it is important to take extra precautions to stay safe.

Fortunately, Ljubljana has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, making it a great destination for solo travelers.

Even with a low crime rate, here are some safety tips to keep in mind when visiting Ljubljana:

Solo Travel Slovenia Tips

• Avoid walking alone late at night or in dark alleys
• Always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
• Don’t display expensive jewelry or carry large amounts of cash
• Keep your passport and other important documents in a safe place
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers
• Use a reputable taxi service for transportation around the city
• Download any necessary maps or directions before leaving your hotel or Airbnb so you don’t need to use your phone while walking.

Is it Safe to Rent a Car in Ljubljana?

Renting a car in Ljubljana is safe, but it is important to keep in mind that if you don’t have an EU driver’s license you will need an international driver’s permit in addition to your regular license.

I have rented a car in Romania, where the rules to rent a car were similar. When renting a car in Ljubljana, I highly recommend using Discover Cars. They have the best rental car rates and their policies to rent a car are easy to understand.

Renting a car in Slovenia is great if you want to explore the small country at your own pace. I can highly recommend a solo holiday in picturesque Lake Bled.

Explore renting a car in Ljublijana! Check Rates & Availability!

What is the best way to stay connected while traveling in Ljubljana?

When you travel solo, staying connected is so important. I feel safest when I have full access to use my cell phone. The best way to stay connected is by purchasing a prepaid SIM card that works in Europe.

This will allow you to access the internet on your phone and make calls at a much lower rate than if you were using your home provider.

Pro Tip: If your phone plan comes with included international usage plan save data by keeping the phone in airplane mode unless you need the internet. Even though I have included coverage, there is still a limit to how much data I can use.

Best Places to Visit Alone in Ljubljana

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Ljubljana is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia and it is brimming with activities! All of which I deem safe for a woman traveler. Below you will find several ideas and links to make your planning easier.

Ljubljana Castle

One of the best places for solo travellers to visit in Ljubljana is the castle! Located on top of a hill overlooking the city, this iconic attraction is no surprise, one of the most popular places to visit in Ljubljana.

A great way to make new friends on your trip is to take join an organized tour. This tour of the castle grounds is packed with history and includes a ride up the funicular for stunning views of the city below.

If you want to have a dining experience like no other, I urge you to make a reservation at the Restaurant Strelec.

Ljubljana Castle is also a curious cultural point for any females traveling alone to spend an afternoon checking out the latest art gallery display

Central Market

I had a great time checking out the Central Market in Ljubljana! This bustling goods and vegetable market is filled with stands selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade souvenirs.

Here you will find an abundance of vendors selling incredible food and takeaway coffee you can enjoy on-site. It is a good place to save a little money and have lunch.

Old Town

Visiting the Old Town of Ljubljana in the morning is one of the best things to do. There will be far few people so you can get a good look at the enchanting architecture.

I just loved soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this unique area!

Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge:

Personally, I was obsessed with the Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge! These two iconic bridges span the Ljubljanica River, providing a beautiful backdrop for many of the city’s most memorable photos.

According to local legend, a dragon once lived in Ljubljana and caused havoc throughout the city until a brave knight killed it.

As a tribute to his bravery, the people of Ljubljana created a sculpture of the dragon and placed it at the entrance to the city. The Triple Bridge was constructed in honor of three brave soldiers who fought off an enemy attack on Ljubljana.

Today, these bridges are a symbol of the city’s bravery and resilience and have become two of its most recognizable attractions.

Metelkova City

Metelkova city is the former military barracks that were once the headquarters for the Austro-Hungarian Empire and then Yugoslavia. Slovenia was part of Yugoslavia until June 25, 1991.

This former military base is now home to an eclectic mix of bars, galleries, and cultural centers, making it the perfect place for solo female travelers to hang out.

Check the cultural event calendar for all the happenings. Visit their website and translate it to English.

Tivoli Park

This is one of Ljubljana’s largest parks and a great spot for some much-needed relaxation. If you are looking for things to do on your own, you can pack a picnic lunch or take a leisurely stroll.

The park is also a great place to rent a boat and explore the park’s many canals.

Museum of Modern Art

Explore Ljubljana’s modern art scene at this museum, which showcases an array of contemporary pieces by local artists.

Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am to 6 pm.

National Gallery

The National Gallery has an impressive gallery that is home to some of Slovenia’s most celebrated masterpieces. Here you can view works from renowned local artists, including the work of Jože Plečnik, Slovenia’s most famous architect.

Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am to 6 pm.

Slovenian Ethnographic Museum

Learn about the cultural history of Slovenia at the Slovenian Ethnographic Museum with its extensive collection of traditional clothing, art, and artifacts.

Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 am to 6 pm.

Ljubljana Zoo

Take a break from city life and explore the many animals that call this zoo home. From majestic lions to colorful parrots, there are plenty of creatures to admire.

The zoo is located a 45-minute walk from the central market and is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm.

Best Tours in Ljubljana For Solo Travellers

• Make best friends with other travelers who love to eat and go wine tasting on this food and wine tour. A great option for solo female travelers that are short on time in the capital of Slovenia.
• Visit Postojna Cave & Predjama Castle on a Guided Trip from Ljubljana!
• Go to beautiful Lake Bled and the castle on a day trip from Ljubljana! I highly recommend visiting either on a trip or on your own.
• Spend the day at Triglav National Park on this guided Tour

Where to Stay Solo & Safe In Ljubljana?

Finding a safe place to stay in Ljubljana was my top priority. I found that all areas of the old town felt secure and safe enough for a solo female traveling.

When looking for your accommodations, there are plenty of sites like Booking.com and VBRO that both have a wide range of properties to choose from. You can find everything ranging from private apartments and homes to shared rooms or hostels.

Researching can get overwhelming, so I wanted to make it easier for you and list out my best finds for every budget.

Pro Tip: Even though I found solo travel to be super safe, I ALWAYS recommend getting travel insurance to avoid any mishaps. Lost luggage or getting sick can happen at any time.

Top Boutique Hotels in Ljubljana

• Hotel Cubo This modern and chic hotel is very comfortable and rated highly by guests. Hotel Cubo is located centrally and is a 15-minute walk to the main train station.

• Urban Hotel Stylish and central are words that describe best this boutique hotel! It offers free access to a push scooter for all guests and more information on its website. Walk from the main train station in 10 minutes.

• Lesar Hotel Angel This hotel would be my top choice when returning to Ljubljana. It has character and charm, like no other I’ve seen. If visiting in summer, you will enjoy the beautiful garden patio, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing!

Luxury Hotel in Ljubljana

• Intercontinental Ljubljana Straight up a luxury class in this 5-star hotel. Rooftop deck, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains! This hotel is new, having opened in September of 2017. Complete with a spa and 2 lounge bars.

Stylish & Affordable Hotels in Ljubljana

• Art Hotel Central is cozy and stylish for this 3-star affordable hotel. Approx. 18 min walk from the central station to the hotel. A great choice for the budget traveler.

• Barbo Palace is very highly rated by guests who praise the staff and location. Clean and comfortable stay for an amazing price!

• Apartments Hisa Pod Grandom Centrally located, 4-star small hotel, nearby the Dragon Bridge, and just a 15-minutes walk away from the main train station.

Best Hostels in Ljubljana

If you are a solo female traveller on a budget you should check out some of the great hostels in Ljubljana!

• Denzik is a trendy and highly-rated hostel in Ljubljana! They have quadruple rooms with a private bathroom.
• AdHoc Hostel is your dorm rooms type of traditional hostel. Located in the city center. It’s a great affordable option.

Where to Eat

If you consider yourself a foodie, Ljubljana is the best city to try some creative cuisine!

Bistro Breakfast & Brunch

Ek Bistro

Ek Bistro is a great choice for breakfast! Very stylish, serving classics like Eggs Benedict. It is open daily from 8 am to 3 pm, and is located close to the castle.

Food Porn

Food Porn is a hip and trendy restaurant converted from an old tobacco factory! They have all the classic breakfast items! It is also worth coming back for lunch or dinner if you are looking for a casual, cool vibe.

Le Petit Cafe

Le Petit Cafe This place is highly recommended via the internet and those that have been there. Since 1996, this establishment is serving up some tasty delights from 7:30 am till 11 pm. The ambiance of this restaurant can’t be beaten!

Lunch & Dinner Places

Monstera Bistro

Monstera Bistro in Ljubljana is one of the best meals I’ve ever had. They had an impressive prix fixe menu that changes often. The food was so good I ate here for lunch and dinner.

Karvana Rog

Karvana Rog This stylish restaurant can satisfy all your dining needs. It serves great coffee and breakfast, as well as lunch/dinner. Be sure to make reservations.

Trendy Wine/Cocktail Bars in Ljubljana

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I was very impressed by the abundance of wine and cocktail bar choices in Ljubljana. Very modern and trendy spots, all very affordable. The most outstanding bit was a friendly attitude wherever I ended up.

Safety is my top concern, and I felt protected and in my comfort zone in all the bars in Slovenia. All this added up to why I think Ljubljana is perfectly safe for a solo adventure.

Vinoteka Movia

Vinoteka Movia I visited this place daily during my stay in Ljubljana! The staff is very friendly and really knowledgeable. Wines are locally made from their own vineyard, and severed in the perfect cozy atmosphere.

I was there in late fall, so I didn’t get to enjoy the large outdoor patio. They didn’t seem to have a full menu but would serve fantastic cheese and meat plates.

Suklje Wine Bar

Suklje Wine Bar is a sleek and stylish space serving up a great selection of wine. They also serve food, and the menu can be found on their website.

B-Restaurant Intercontinetal

B-Restaurant Intercontinental Roof Top Bar the name speaks for itself. This rooftop bar is worth checking out. They serve up delicious cocktails, that pair lovely with the views of the mountains and castle. Celebrate your solo trip with a glass of bubbly here!

Where to Go Next?

After your Ljubljana safe solo adventure, I have a recommendation for another safe destination. Beautiful Lake Bled is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Ljubljana by bus.

It makes for a fantastic day trip or overnight stay!

Final Thoughts on Visiting Ljubljana Solo

Ljubljana is a fantastic spot for females who love a charming old city to visit solo. You can expect to feel safe and secure walking around alone.

The locals are friendly and when it comes to affordability, it is a great spot!

FAQs Solo Travel in Ljubljana

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