LJUBLJANA - In Your Pocket

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LJUBLJANA
Enjoy your
COMPLIMENTARY COPY
of Ljubljana In Your Pocket
October - November 2012
Slovenian Wine
Taste all of the country’s
best wines at events
in Ljubljana this autumn
BIO 23
The 23rd Ljubljana Biennial of
Design is at Fužine Castle

ESSENTIAL CITY GUIDES
Contents
Ljubljana Old Town 8
Arriving in Ljubljana 10
Getting around 11
Basics 13
Statistics, politics and where to find the loo
Culture & Events 14
Music, festivals and exhibitions 14
Cultural centres and venues 18
The elegant yet slightly vertigo-inducing stairwell in
Nebotičnik - if you’re visiting the top floor café it’s best to
take the lift, photo by M. Tančič
Contents
The autumn brings cooler weather, but also some beautiful
colours to the city, photo by YMB
Where to stay 20
Business suites to hostel bunks
Dining & Nightlife 25
Where to eat 25
Everything from A to V(egetarian)
Cafés 31
Enjoy one of Ljubljana’s favourite pastimes
Nightlife 33
Dance and drink the night away
What to see 37
Bridges, museums and the castle
Where to shop 42
The best of what and where to buy
Directory 44
Maps
City map 46-47
City centre map 48-49
Ljubljana Distribution 50
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
5

6 Foreword
Despite its diminutive size Slovenia is a surprisingly
diverse country, both in terms of geography and culture.
However, one of the few things that unites virtually all of
the country’s two million inhabitants - from the shores
of the Mediterranean Sea to the snow capped peak of
the Alps to the wide expanses of the Pannonian plains
to the streets of Ljubljana’s old town - is a love of quality
locally produced wine. If you have a similar fondness for
fermented grapes, then there is no better time to visit
Ljubljana than the autumn, with wine-related events
such as St Martin’s Saturday, the open-air Ljubljana
Wine Route and Slovenian Wine Festival taking place
virtually every weekend, and many bars and restaurants
offering specials on the season’s first young wine (or
mošt) - we’ve also got caught up in the excitement and
will shortly be publishing our first dedicated Slovenian
Wine Guide. For those not interested in imbibing, there’s
no need to fret, as there are plenty of other events over
the coming months as well, including the BIO 23 design
biennial, the huge LIFFe international film festival, the
17th running of the Ljubljana Marathon and tons of
great concerts.
While it’s back to school and back to work for the
majority of Ljubljana’s residents after having spent
lengthy summer holidays on the beaches of Croatia and
elsewhere around the Mediterranean, here at In Your
Pocket it’s business as usual as we spent our summer
months producing two completely new guides: Dežela
Celjska, which includes a total of 21 municipalities
around the city of Celje, and EDEN Slovenia, which is
the official English language guide to the country’s four
European Destinations of Excellence (Idrija, the Kolpa
River, the Soča Valley and the region of Solčavsko).
Digital versions these guides, as well as those we
already produce for Bled, Maribor, the Slovenian Coast
(Primorska) and the Posavje region, can be downloaded
for free from our website or picked up in printed form from
various tourist offices and other locations. As always
we welcome any and all feedback, be it on Facebook,
Foursquare, Twitter or even old-fashioned email.
ESSENTIAL CITY GUIDES
Ljubljana In Your Pocket
Drenikova 33, 1000 Ljubljana
Slovenia
Tel. +386 30 316 602
ljubljana@inyourpocket.com
www.inyourpocket.com
Director Niko Slavnic M.Sc.
niko.slavnic@inyourpocket.com
ISSN 1855-3486
©IQBATOR d.o.o.
Printed Eurograf
Published Published six times per
year
Maps Monolit d.o.o.
Editorial
Editor Yuri Barron
Writers Yuri Barron, Will Dunn, Craig
Turp, Richard Schofield, Francisco
Alvarez, Elliott Foxton
Layout & Design Vaida Gudynaitė
Consulting Craig Turp
Photos Yuri Barron, Ljubljana Tourism,
Branka Jovanović, Dunja Wedam
Cover photo Branka Jovanović
Sales & Circulation
Sales & Operations Management
Irena Jamnikar, Karmen Hribar
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Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

The Best Events in Ljubljana in 2012
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
in the news
The winners of our Best Annual Festival and Best Summer Event polls for 2012 as voted on by our readers (clockwise
from top left): Znanstival - Best Annual Festival (1st Place); Trnfest - Best Summer Event (1st Place) & Best Annual Festival
(2nd Place); Ljubljana Festival - Best Summer Event (2nd Place); Red Party - Best Summer Event (2nd Place); and the
Ljubljana International Film Festival - Best Annual Festival (3rd Place). Congratulations to all the winners and thanks to
everyone who voted! The full results of this and many other polls can be viewed on our website.
New budget destinations
Beginning in October,
Ljubljana’s Brnik
airport will see a dramatic
67% increase
in the number of destinations
offered by
budget carriers, as
the Hungary-based
Wizz Air will begin
flying thrice-weekly to
both Brussels Charleroi
and London Luton
from Slovenia’s only
international airport
- adding to Easyjet’s current Ljubljana-London Stansted
route. Tickets can be booked online, and start at just €23
each way (or even less if you’re a Wizz Air member).
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Who reads Ljubljana IYP?
When posted at headquarters and frequently travelling
in Central and Eastern Europe, I really enjoyed the regular
copy of ‘somewhere’ In Your Pocket. It always guided
me through cities, cuisine and cultural life. Now, living in
Ljubljana, I personally need it less, but the Embassy’s
guests appreciate Ljubljana In Your Pocket as much
as I did before. I also have copies for other places in
Slovenia.
- Dutch Ambassador HE Mr Jos Douma
We want to congratulate you for the successful issues
of Ljubljana In Your Pocket. Most of our employees
really use it for getting new information, planning their
free time, etc.
- The Austrian Embassy in Ljubljana
October - November 2012
7

8 LjubLjana oLd town
Robba Fountain (Robbov Vodnjak) D-3, Mestni
Trg. One of the most famous landmarks in the city, this
lovely 1751 fountain is named after its creator, the Italian
Baroque sculptor Francesco Robba (1698-1757).
Rogaška Crystal Mestni Trg 22, tel. +386 (0)1
241 27 01, prodajalna.ljubljana@stek-rogaska.si,
www.steklarna-rogaska.si. Balancing functionality
with design excellence, Rogaška Crystal is one of the
leading producers of crystal ware in the world. QOpen
09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun.
Mestna Hiša (Town Hall) D-3/4, Mestni Trg 1,
tel. (+386) 1 306 11 71, galerija@ljubljana.si. The
15th century Town Hall was dramatically altered over
the ages, and given a Baroque facelift in the early 18th
century. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00.
Piranske Soline D-4, Mestni Trg 19, tel. (+386)
1425 01 90, www.soline.si. A wide range of cutelypackages
salt-based gifts from the famous Roman salt
pans near Piran on the Slovene coast.QOpen 09:00 -
20:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 15:00.
Ljubljana Ljubljana In In Your Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
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L’Occitane D-4, Mestni Trg 7, tel. (+386) 1 426 03
72, info@loccitane.si, www.loccitane.si. Skincare,
bodycare and fragrances from the French region of
Provence. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 14:00.
Closed Sun.
Moje Tvoje D-4, Mestni Trg 8, tel. +386 (0)31 738
438. A unique concept shop offering original clothing
and jewellery, second hand vintage items, and a gallery
space for locals artists. QOpen 10:00 - 20:00,
Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 11:00 - 17:00. See page 43
for full description.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Mestni trg
Čokoladnica Cukrček D-3/4, Mestni Trg 11,
tel. +386 (0)1 421 04 53, info@benedict.si, www.
cukrcek.si. A charming, family-run chocolate business
with four shops in the city. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sun
10:00 - 19:00. See page 43 for full description.
Pivoteka Za Popen’t D-4, Stari Trg 5, tel. +386
(0)1 256 59 16, zapopent@hotmail.com, www.
zapopent.si. The largest selection of specialty beers
in the country, with some 150 different ones at last
count. QOpen 11:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. See page
43 for full description.
October - November 2012
9

10 arriving in LjubLjana
Officially part of the Schengen zone since late 2007 and
nearly completely surrounded by other Schengen-agreement
countries, entering Slovenia has never been easier.
With a well-developed system of buses, trains and highways
throughout the country, getting around is also fairly
easy. The centre of Ljubljana is relatively small, meaning
public transport is rarely, if ever, needed when in town.
Arriving by plane
Ljubljana’s cosy little Jože Pučnik Airport is 26km northwest
of the city, near Brnik. Getting there takes about
30 minutes by taxi (€35-45) or shuttle (€5-8, schedule is
coordinated with flights) and roughly twice as long by bus
(€4.10, up to 16 per day between 05:00-20:00). Check the
airport’s website for a complete schedule.
Arriving by train
Once you’ve worked out the tunnel and stair system and
made it to the main train station building, find everything
you need including an ATM and press stand selling top-up
cards (but alas no SIM cards) for prepaid SIM accounts.
Left luggage is provided courtesy of 80 coin-operated
lockers with instructions in English on platform Nº1, with
the toilets conveniently located next door. The station also
boasts a surprisingly good Tourist Information Centre, a
train information bureau immediately to the right and currency
exchange opposite (open daily from 10:00 - 19:00,
Sat 08:00-15:00, Sun closed). Getting to town depends
as always on where you’re planning to stay and how fit you
are. Many central hotels are within reasonable walking
distance. Alternatively, find taxis outside, and make sure
the meter is running before you depart.
Arriving by bus
All national and international buses arrive at the central
bus station which is located directly in front of the main
train station. The ‘temporary’ prefabricated station building
features little in the way of facilities for recent arrivals,
making a trip to the train station almost compulsory. Perhaps
the only one of its kind in the world, the bus station
does however contain a Sixt car rental kiosk, with the only
other useful facility being a small internet café for which
tickets can be acquired from ticket window Nº1. Getting to
town is the same as described above.
Vinjeta - A Ticket to Drive
Vinjeta www.dars.si. Slovenia
requires all motor vehicles
travelling on Slovenian highways
to have a vinjeta (veenyeh-tah)
sticker. This system
exists in lieu of tolls, and the
vinjeta can be easily obtained
at nearly all gas stations and
kiosks.
Yearly/monthly/weekly stickers
are €95/30/15 for cars
and yearly/half-yearly/weekly ones are €47.50/25/7.50
for motorcycles. Also be aware that border police will
likely not remind you to purchase a vinjeta when entering
the country, but are highly likely to issue you a steep
fine when leaving if you’ve failed to do so. For more info
check www.dars.si.
A Word From Our Mayor
For me, Ljubljana is the most beautiful city in the the world
– unique for its special position in the heart of Slovenia.
As a city with rich history and cultural heritage, it attracts
ever more visitors every year from near and far. The most
important ambassadors for Ljubljana are undoubtedly
our residents, who live the intercultural dialogue and with
their openness, kindness, and hospitality always ensure
a touch of comfort and warmth.
Welcome to Ljubljana!
If Things Go Wrong
The emergency number is 112 for fire, rescue, and ambulance
and 113 for police. If possible, find someonewho
speaks Slovene to help you make the call since there is
no guarantee of finding an English speaker on the other
end. The nearest Casualty Unit (Emergency Room) to the
city centre can be found at the University Medical Center,
at Zaloška cesta 2, and emergency treatment is free for
members of EU, EEA, and Switzerland. We also list local
pharmacies, dentists, and other services in the directory.
You can find it here. If you find yourself in trouble with the
police, call yourembassy immediately. The numbers for all
embassies can be found here under Foreign Representation
in the directory. Useful Emergency Words:
NA POMOČ! (NAH POH-MOCH) - HELP!
gasilci (GAH-SEELT-SEE) - firemen
policija (POH-LEET-SEE-AH) - police
bolnišnica (BOW-NEESH-NEET-SA) - hospital
Zoran Janković
Mayor
Arriving by car
Driving to Ljubljana is a joy due to the good roads and
excellent signposting. The city is circled by a ring road
from where it’s easy to get to the centre. Simply follow the
parking signs for convenient places to leave your car near
the city centre. Once in the city, it’s best to walk the short
distances rather than drive through the heavy traffic and
narrow street. Also, if you’re staying in Old Ljubljana be
aware that it is largely a pedestrian only zone.
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Public Transport
LPP (Ljubljanski Potniški Promet) D-2, Slovenska
56, tel. (+386) 14 30 51 74, mail@lpp.si, www.lpp.
si. Ljubljana’s urban and suburban public transport company.
There are LPP ticket sales offices at Slovenska 56
(Bavarski Dvor), Celovška 160 and the central bus station.
QOpen 07:00 - 19:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Trains
Slovenian Railways (Slovenske Železnice) does an
admirable job of running an efficient network with clean
modern trains that are usually on time. Their website
(www.slo-zeleznice.si) contains a wealth of information
in English, including live information on train delays
as well as an online timetable. See the national and
international train schedules in this guide for the main
destinations.
Slovenian Railways (Slovenske Železnice)
Kolodvorska 11, Ljubljana, tel. +386 (0)1 29 13 332,
potnik.info@slo-zeleznice.si, www.slo-zeleznice.si.
Train Station (Železniška Postaja) E-1, Trg Osvobodilne
Fronte, tel. (+386) 1291 33 32, potnik.
info@slo-zeleznice.si, www.slo-zeleznice.si. Full of nice
touches such as little conveyor belts for taking heavy bags
up to the platforms, Ljubljana’s reasonably central train
station is just north of the main action. See Arriving for
information on several of the station’s facilities, plus, if
you’re planning on leaving town, the ticket office straight
out of a 1970s disco movie is to the left of the main
entrance, with signs and departure screens in English.
QOpen 05:00 - 22:00.
Buses
Dozens of regular bus connections are available to efficiently
whisk you to all corners of the country. See also
the national and international bus schedules in this
guide.
Ljubljana Bus Station (Avtobusno Postajališče)
D/E-1, Trg Osvobodilne Fronte 4, tel. +386 (0)1 234
46 00, fax +386 (0)1 234 46 01, avtobusna.postaja@
ap-ljubljana.si, www.ap-ljubljana.si. Essentially a large
caravan without any wheels, Ljubljana’s temporary central
bus station couldn’t be easier to use. Enter through one
of the doors at either end, buy a ticket from one of the
kiosks, and away you go. Some tickets can be bought
directly from the driver, but you should always check in
the bus station to make sure. The bus station operates
many national routes as well as regular international
services. QOpen 05:00 - 22:30, Sat 05:00 - 22:00, Sun
05:30 - 22:30.
Car Rental
Avis D-2, Čufarjeva 2, tel. (+386) 1 430 80 10, lji@
avis.si, www.avis.si. With offices all over Slovenia
(including Brnik Airport, Ljubljana, Maribor and Koper) the
friendly folks at Avis can help you find the most convenient
car rental solution for your holiday, business trip or
weekend away. It’s always a good idea to enquire about
special weekend rates, as they can be extremely easy on
the wallet. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 08:00 - 12:00.
Airport office tel. (0)4 23 65 000, open 08:00-22:00.
Europcar D-2, Dalmatinova 15, tel. (+386) 3 138 20
52, reservations@europcar.si, sl.europcar.si. QOpen
08:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 13:00, Sun 08:00 - 12:00.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
getting around
Urbana Card
The city bus operator,
LPP, has finally introduced
the long-awaited
Urbana Card, a form
of electronic ticketing
that will eventually
replace the previous
hodge-podge system of
payment that included
tokens, coins and photo
ID cards. The credit
card-sized smart card
is similar to those already
used in other cities, such as London’s Oyster Card
and Paris’ Navigo Pass. The cards can be purchased for
a one-time fee of €2 at many locations including various
tobacconists and news-stands, tourist offices, the central
bus station and LPP offices at Bavarski Dvor and Celovška
Cesta 160. Credit can be added for any amount between
€1-50 at these same locations as well as some three
dozen green Urbanomati machines scattered around
town. When getting on the bus simply touch the card to
one of the green card readers at the front entrance and
€1.20 will be deducted from the card allowing 90 minutes
of travel, including unlimited transfers.
Airport office tel. (04) 236 79 90, open 08:00-21:00.
Sixt D-1, Trg Osvobodilne Fronte 5, tel. (+386) 1
234 46 50, info@sixt.si, www.sixt.si. QOpen 08:00
- 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 14:00, Sun 08:00 - 12:00.
Ta xis
Ljubljana’s taxis are safe, clean and generally reliable.
The starting rate is usually between €0.80-1.50 with
a per kilometre rate of €0.70-1.70, depending on the
company, time of day and number of passenger. Waiting
usually costs €15-20 per hour. Ordering a taxi by
phone will get you lower rates for longer distance trips.
Laguna Taxi J-1, Celovška 228, tel. (+386) 31 492
299/(+386) 1 511 23 14, fax (+386) 1 511 23 14,
taxi.laguna@siol.net, www.taxi-laguna.com.
Metro Taxi M-3/4, Litijska 16, tel. (+386) 80 11 90/
(+386) 4 124 02 00, taxi@metroprevozi.net, www.
metroprevozi.net/TaxiPrevozi.htm.
Taxi Intertours L-2, Središka 4, tel. (+386) 1520
97 04, narocila.intertours@gmail.com, www.taxiintertours.si.
Taxi Legende Andreja Bitenca 50, tel. (+386) 31
73 22 89, taxi.legende@gmail.com, www.taksilegende.com.
Airport
Ljubljana Airport (Letališče Jožeta Pučnika)
Zgornji Brnik 130a, tel. +386 (0)4 20 610 00, fax
+386 (0)4 20 212 20, info@lju-airport.si, www.ljuairport.si.
Well connected to the Balkans and most major
European destinations, Ljubljana’s Jože Pučnik Airport,
26km northwest of the city, is as small and efficient as the
rest of the country. There’s free Wi-Fi for internet addicts,
a buffet-style restaurant, a couple cafés, a bank (with
ATM) and currency exchange office (open 07:00 - 19:00)
and a post office (open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 07:00-12:00,
Sun closed).
October - November 2012
11

12 getting around
Hertz Car Rental
D-2, Trdinova 9, tel. (+386) 14 34 01 47, ljubljana@hertz.si,
www.hertz.si. One of the most
known and trusted names in car rentals has a total
of eight locations across Slovenia, including an office
in the centre of Ljubljana within easy walking
distance of most hotels, as well as at the airports in
Ljubljana and Portorož. They also conveniently offer
free delivery and collection service within 20km of any
office during working hours. Their large fleet of new
cars has everything from the incredibly fuel-efficient
Volkswagen Up! to larger vans and luxury models -
there are even some with automatic transmissions for
Americans. QOpen 07:00 - 19:00, Sat 08:00 - 13:00,
Sun 08:00 - 12:00.-
Getting there takes about 30 minutes by taxi (€35-45)
or shuttle (€5-8, schedule is coordinated with flights) and
roughly twice as long by bus (€4.10, up to 16 per day
between 05:00-20:00). Check the airport’s website for a
complete schedule. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00.
Airlines
Adria Airways (JP) I-1, Zgornji Brnik 130h, tel.
(+386)4 259 42 45, fax (+386)4 236 34 61, booking@adria.si,
www.adria.si. QOpen 06:00 - 20:00.
Call center for ticket reservations:+386 (0)1 36 91 010,
Mon-Fri 08:00-18:00.
Air France (AF) B-4, Igriška 5, tel. (+386) 1 244 34
47, fax (+386) 1 244 34 48, mail.cto.lju@airfrance.fr,
www.airfrance.si. Flights to Paris CDG. QOpen 09:00 -
12:30, 13:00-17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Easyjet (EZY) Ljubljana Airport, tel. (+386) 4 206
16 77, www.easyjet.com.
Transfers
GoOpti Tel. (+386) 1 320 45 30, info@goopti.
com, www.goopti.com. This new low cost airport
shuttle service offers transfers to and from airports
in neighbouring countries. Departures can be booked
between Ljubljana to nearly 20 airports in the region,
including Venice, Munich and Vienna, using GoOpti’s
novel online booking system. Rates begin at as little as
€9 per person.
Lufthansa C-2, Gosposvetska 8, lufthansa@adria.si,
www.lufthansa.de.
Travel Agencies
Imperial Travel & Cruise D-2, Tavčarjeva 5, tel. +386
(0)1 239 16 00, info@imperial.si, www.imperial-travel.si.
Ljubljana’s foremost luxury travel agency specialises in trips to
Dubai, the Seychelles, the Maldives, Mauritius, Java and Bali,
and recently added an ‘Indian Fairytale’ package to the list.
The professional and discrete staff are adept at satisfying
any and all demands that clients may have, and are available
throughout the journey should any other needs or requests
arise.
ISSIMO Incoming Luxury Travel Šlandrova 4b, tel.
+386 (0)5 901 53 77, info@issimo-group.com, www.
issimo-group.com. ISSIMO is a luxury travel agency providing
distinguished clients a wide range of premium services highlighting
the unique natural beauty and treasures of the Adriatic
region - from Slovenia and Croatia to Montenegro - including
luxury cruises with private yachts, luxury travel with private
jets and private transfers and excursions by limousines and
helicopter. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
STA C-2/3, Trg Ajdovščina 1, tel. (+386) 14 39 16 90/
(+386) 41 61 27 11, fax (+386) 14 39 16 95, info@
staljubljana.com, www.sta-lj.com. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sat, Sun.
Parking Garages
PH Kapitelj E-3, Poljanski nasip 4, tel. (+386)1
360 36 48/(+386)51 366 510, phkapitelj@
kranjska-id.com, www.parkiraj.si. Located along
the Ljubljanica River beneath the modern Kapitelj
and Urban Villa complex, which houses both shops,
offices, residences and two embassies, the garage is
only 100m or so from the famous Dragon Bridge and
Tržnica market. While there are only 261 spaces, you
can normally find a free one.
PH Meksiko F-2, Njegošova 4, tel. (+386)1
600 40 38/(+386)51 366 510, phmeksiko@
kranjska-id.com, www.parkiraj.si. Only opened in
2010, the Mexico Parking Garage is a large modern
facility situated adjacent to the Slovenia’s main medical
facilities and just down the street from the central bus
and railway stations. There are a total of 624 spaces,
and the ground floor is home to a popular German
supermarket.
PH Šentpeter F-3, Zaloška 1, tel. (+386)1 430 59
02, phsentpeter@kranjska-id.com, www.parkiraj.
si. Situated near the University of Ljubljana Medical
Centre at the intersection of Zaloška and Njegoševa
Streets, Šentpeter Parking House boasts some 500
parking spaces.
PH Trdinova D-2, Trdinova 9, tel. (+386) 1 230 96
00/(+386) 5 136 65 10, phtrdinova@kranjska-id.
com, www.parkiraj.si. Located in the very centre of the
city, only a short walk from the Ljubljana Stock Exchange,
main courthouse and various corporate head offices, the
Trdinova Parking House has near 1200 spaces. QAll
garages open 00:00 - 24:00. From 07:00-19:00 €2 per
hour, from 19:00-07:00 the first four hours are €1 per
hour, while additional hours are €0.50. The daily rate is
€32, while monthly fees are as low as €150.
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Crime and safety
Ljubljana is one of the safest capital cities in the world, with the
only prevalent crime being bicycle theft, which is unlikely to affect
short term visitors. Nowhere in the city is unsafe to walk at at
any hour, although if you’re by yourself it’s probably best to avoid
certain parts of Tivoli Park in the middle of the night. The only real
threat to safety in the city comes from out-of-control cyclists and
negligent drivers not paying attention to pedestrians. Perhaps
a secondary menace are slow-to-react automatic doors that
seem to be installed in shops across Ljubljana - causing hurried
consumers much grief and the rare minor injury.
Drinking
Alcohol is only sold to people over 18, and sadly after 21:00
it cannot be bought in stores.
Money
Slovenia adopted the euro in January 2007. Euro coins come in
denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, 1 and 2 euros,
while banknotes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500
euros. The Slovenian side of the euro coins are decorated with
among other things storks, Mount Triglav, Lippizaner horses,
a man sowing stars and a Jože Plečnik design.
Basic data
Population
Slovenia 2,048,951 (2011 estimate)
Ljubljana 280,140 (2011 estimate)
Area
20,273 square kilometres
Ethnic composition
Slovenian 83%, Former Yugoslav minorities 5.3%,
Hungarian, Albanian, Roma, Italian and others 11.7%
Official languages
Slovenian, Italian, Hungarian
Local time
Central European (GMT + 1hr)
Longest river
Sava (221km in Slovenia)
Highest mountain
Triglav 2,864m.
Borders
Austria 318km, Italy 280km, Hungary 102km,
Croatia 670km
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Climate
Temperature, °C
30
20
10
0
-10
-20
J
Exchange rates
Market values
basiCs
Rainfall, mm
150
120
F M A M J J A S O
N
D
Politics
The Republic of Slovenia is a parliamentary democracy. The
president, Dr DaniloTürk, was elected in 2007, and will likely
run for re-election at the end of 2012. Early parliamentary
elections in December 2011 brought the rather divisive former
prime minister Janez Janša and his conservative party back
to power.
Smoking
Cigarettes can’t be sold to people under 18. Slovenia recently
banned smoking from public indoor spaces except in special
smoking areas in offices, hotels and bars.
Toilets
Clean and pleasant public toilets can be found at Dragon
Bridge (07:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun), in the Plečnik Passageway
west of Zvezda Park (07:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun) and at Triple
Bridge (07:00 - 21:00).
1 EUR € = 1.29 US$ = 0.80 UK£ = 1.21 CHF = 8.1
(27 Sept 2012)
CNY = 100 ¥ = 40 руб
90
60
30
Compared to the rest of Western and Central Europe,
prices in Slovenia are still fairly competitive despite noticeable
increases since the introduction of the Euro in 2007.
Here are some typical everyday products and prices:
Product Price
McDonald’s Big Mac €2.40
Slice of pizza € 1.80
Slice of burek € 2.00
Cup of coffee € 1.10
Bottle of name brand vodka € 12.50
Decent bottle of local wine € 3.50
Bottle of local beer in a shop € 1.10
Pint of beer in a pub € 2.70
Pack of cigarettes € 2.90
Single bus ride € 1.20
Movie ticket € 4.90
Postcard € 0.30
Litre of petrol € 1.49
Taxi ride across town € 5.00
Fine for parking illegally € 40
Speeding ticket up to €2000
October - November 2012
13

14 CuLture & events
Music
As both the cultural and student capital of the country,
Ljubljana regularly hosts a wide range of musical performances
from classical and world music to punk and experimental
noise-rock to pretty much everything in between,
and manages to attract more than its fair share of big
name international acts.
16.10 Tuesday
Belleruche
Cankarjev Dom, Prešernova 10, www.cd-cc.si. Touring in
support of their newly released Rollerchain album, the Londonbased
electro/soul trio Belleruche will be performing in the
intimate confines of Cankarjev Dom’s CD Club. While we’re not
professional critics by any stretch of the imagination, we’ve
given the album a few listens recently and find the opening
track and first single ‘Stormbird’ to be one of the catchiest
songs of the year - give it a listen on YouTube and see if you
agree with us. Q Tickets €11/14.
26.10 Friday
Sofa Surfers
Kino Šiška, Trg Prekomorskih Brigad 3, www.kinosiska.si.
Not to be confused with the similarly named free accommodation
site couchsurfing.com, Sofa Surfers are an Austrian band noted
for its blending of the rock, trip hop and acid jazz (among other)
genres. They’ll be performing at Kino Šiška on their tour in support
of their latest album Superluminal, which was just released in September.
Definitely a show not to miss for fans of chilled out music.
Q Tickets €12-18.
29.10 Monday
Keane
Hala Tivoli, Celovška 25. Together since 1997, Keane
became a household name to pop/rock fans with their smash
out success album Hopes and Fears in 2004, and seem to
have been playing a string of sold out arena concerts ever
since. Their latest album, Strangeland, was released in May
of this year to mixed reviews from critics, but shot straight
to number one on the UK charts for the fifth time in a row - a
record only surpassed by the like of ABBA, Led Zeppelin, the
Beatles and Eminem. Q Tickets €34.
09.11 Friday
Brit Floyd
Hala Tivoli, Celovška 25. The world’s greatest Pink Floyd tribute
band makes a stop in Ljubljana during its ongoing world tour. Covering
all of Pink Floyd’s greatest hits, the show is visually designed
according to the band’s last tour - Division Bell from 1994 - and
includes identical lighting and video projection for each song.
In other words, this really is the next best thing to having seen
the original Pink Floyd in concert. To their credit, Brit Floyd have
performed some 150 concerts in the past year alone, including
one in London’s famous Royal Albert Hall, which were seen by
over a quarter of a million people. Q Tickets €22.
13.11 Tuesday
Steve Vai
Cvetličarna, Kranjčeva 20. Steve Vai is a virtuoso guitarist,
visionary composer, and consummate producer who sculpts
musical sound with infinite creativity and technical mastery. At
age 12, he started taking guitar lessons from Joe Satriani. At
18, he began his professional musical career transcribing for,
and then playing with, the legendary Frank Zappa. More than
three decades, 15 million in album sales, and three Grammy
Awards later, Vai has proven himself, in his own right, one of
music’s true originals. Don’t miss the chance to see a music
legend at Cvetličarna this November! Q Tickets €30.
Many more events online at
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14.11 Wednesday
Godspeed You! Black Emperor vs Dirty Three
Kino Šiška, Trg Prekomorskih Brigad 3, www.kinosiska.
si. After nearly two decades at the forefront of the so-called
post-rock genre, Godspeed You! Black Emperor (or more
commonly GYBE for short) officially ended their indefinite
hiatus in 2010 and resumed touring, although they still have
yet to put out a new album since 2002. Their multi-media
performances are often considered to be some of the best
in the business. However, for our money, we’re probably more
excited to see the band who will be sharing the stage with
them on the double bill - the even more senior instrumental
rockers Dirty Three. The veteran Australian rockers are one
of the most critically acclaimed bands to ever come from the
land down under, and this will surely be a night the audience
will never forget. Q Tickets €20-27.
Festivals
07.11 Wednesday - 18.11 Sunday
23rd Ljubljana International Film Festival
B-3, Prešernova 10, Cankarjev Dom, tel. (+386) 1 2417
147, liffe@cd-cc.si, en.liffe.si. Known simply by its abbreviation
LIFFe (pronounced LEEF-eh) to locals, the two-week
festival is the undisputed highlight of the year for Slovene
cinephiles and is guaranteed to offer a dizzying selection of
films from around the world and across all genres. It’s also
the best chance during the year for non-Slovene speakers to
see international films subtitled in English.
The full programme of this year’s event will be officially announced
at a press conference on 16 October, but this year’s
festival will feature a retrospective of French auteur Leos
Carax and a tribute to Italian filmmaker Matteo Garrone, and
if past festivals are any indication of what to expect, there
will also be a wide variety of international films, as well as a
selection of films for children aged 7 to 14 in a special section
called Kinobalon.
Venues include Ljubljana’s two main independent cinemas,
Kinoteka and Kinodvor, Cankarjev Dom, the Kino Šiška Urban
Cultural Centre and the Kolosej multiplex in BTC. Tickets will
go on sale beginning on 16 October, and it’s always a good
idea to buy them in advance as sold out screenings are not
uncommon. Discounted sets of tickets can also be purchased
online this year.
24.11 Saturday - 01.12 Saturday
28th Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
Kinoteka, Miklošičeva 28, www.ljudmila.org. First held
in 1984, the festival holds the dual distinction of being the
oldest gay and lesbian film festival in all of Europe and the
oldest international film festival of any kind in Slovenia.
Organised by the ŠKUC Association, with financial support
coming from the city of Ljubljana and the British Council
among others, the festival receives submissions from
around the world and its programme features films from
gay and lesbian filmmakers as well as films related to
GLBT themes and issues.
Exhibitions
08.02 Wednesday - 31.12 Monday
Many heads are better than one
C-4, City Museum, Gosposka 15, tel. +386 (0)1 24 12
500, www.mgml.si. The City Museum of Ljubljana has many
treasures, with all of them outlining the history of our capital,
its immediate surroundings and wider region. The Museum’s
extensive treasures also comprise a sculptural collection of
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
CuLture & events
portraits and faces which will now for the first time be on
display in all its diversity.Most of the sculptures from the collection
are held in the museum’s storerooms and will return
there after the exhibition. Their public display is therefore
an exceptional opportunity. These sculptures comprise fine
works of renowned Slovenian, Italian and Viennese as well
as unknown sculptors.
Special Events
25.10 Thursday
Lord of the Dance
Hala TIvoli, Celovška 25, www.lordofthedance.com.
Michael Flatley, creator and director of this award-winning
international dance phenomenon, proved his vision that
hearts and minds, united through music and dance, cross
all traditional boundaries. His Lord of the Dance continues
to shatter box office records all over the world, leaving audiences
breathless and clamouring for more. Based on Irish
folklore, this classic tale of Good vs Evil, expressed through
the universal language of dance, has thrilled audiences
worldwide and catapulted Irish dance to a new dimension
and unprecedented worldwide acclaim. If you can’t make
the show in Ljubljana, or like it so much that you immediately
want to see it again, a second performance is scheduled for
Maribor on 26 October. Q Tickets €26-45.
28.10 Sunday
17th International Ljubljana Marathon
Tel. +386 (0)1 234 80 00, www.ljubljanskimaraton.
si. The Ljubljana Marathon has grown from less than 700
participants during its inaugural year back in 1996, to over
18,000 for last year’s event won by the Kenyan Daniel Too in a
Wine Events
03.11 Saturday
Ljubljana Wine Route 2012
Ljubljana Old Town, info@slovenskifestivalvin.si,
en.ljubljanskavinskapot.si. On the first Saturday in
November the centre of Ljubljana is transformed into an
orgy of wine producers, sellers, enthusiasts, interested
locals and confused tourists. Most of the action takes
place in the old town along the banks of the Ljubljanica
and a few surrounding streets, with Slovenian wine and
agricultural products sold - of even given away - from
countless small wooden booths. You’ll also be sure to
hear plenty of traditional music and see many people
dressed in traditional clothing and other costumes. Q
Admission is free.
22.11 Thursday - 23.11 Friday
15th Slovenian Wine Festival
C/D-3, Hotel Slon & Hotel Union, info@slovenskifestivalvin.si,
en.radost.si. Slovenia’s largest wine-related
event has been promoting the culture of wine drinking for
over a decade, and this year’s festival will be the biggest
yet. Taking place at two of Ljubljana’s most prestigious
hotels, the event brings together diverse participants and
attendees from the wine industry, media and interested
consumers, and aims to both raise awareness of wine
drinking - especially among younger people - and help
facilitate business partnerships between producers, caterers
and wholesalers as well as offer new opportunities for
development of the wine business. See their website for
registration information and current list of exhibitors.
October - November 2012
15

16 CuLture & events
Bio 23
27.09 Thursday - 11.11 Sunday
Museum of Architecture and Design, Pot na Fužine
2, tel. +386 (0)1 548 42 70, mao@mao.si, www.
mao.si. The Ljubljana Biennial of Design is a prestigious
international exhibition of design works and concepts of
the past two years. The goal of the exhibition, organised
by the Museum of Architecture and Design, is to present
the latest trends in contemporary design with a particular
emphasis on innovative products providing solutions to
the problems of life today, promoting sustained development
and social responsibility, and meeting consumers’
specific needs.
This year’s BIO exhibition will bring together innovative,
comprehensive, functional and sustainable design solutions
from 27 countries, selected by the BIO 23 curators.
The best of them, as decided by an international panel
of judges, will be awarded the BIO Design Awards, presented
at the BIO opening ceremony. The exhibition of
international contemporary design will be accompanied
by guided tours, creative workshops, lectures, exhibitions
and other events around the city of Ljubljana. Q Open
10:00-18:00, Thur 10:00-21:00. Closed Mon and 1 Nov.
Admission €6/3.
record seting time of 2 hours, 8 minutes and 25 seconds - or
roughly si minutes slower than the current world record. This
year’s race will kick off at 08:30 on Sunday, 28 October, while
registration closes on 10 October. Early payment is recommended
as registration fees are €35 for either the 42km
marathon, the 21km half-marathon or the recreational 10km
run until 30 September, but jump to €70 from 1-10 October. A
separate 200m children’s run for those five years and under is
free to enter (and probably the only race we would personally
have a chance of finishing!).
Artish Various venues, www.artish.si. A free monthly
event that brings together Ljubljana’s arts community and
the general public for a day of art, music, theatre and fun.
Local artists and craftsmen display and sell their work, while
also leading free creative workshops on different topics each
month, organising fun activities for children, raising money
for charity and of course discussing their art. Held the last
Saturday of every month, in autumn the event moves indoors
to Kino Šiška. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00. Admission free.
Conferences & Fairs
06.11 Tuesday - 11.11 Sunday
Ambient Ljubljana: Furniture Fair
D-1, Gospodarsko Razstavišče, Dunajska 18, tel. +386
(0)1 300 26 13/+386 (0)1 300 26 64, www.pohistvenisejem.si.
Now in it’s 23rd year, the Ljubljana Furniture Fair is
one of the largest annual events to be held at the Ljubljana Exhibition
and Convention Centre, with thousands of visitors and
297 exhibitors from 19 countries last year. The long-running
event gathers most domestic and many top international producers
of furniture and housing equipment, and a significant
emphasis is placed on achievements in the area of design.
This year prizes will be awarded for the top ten products and
top three exhibition spaces, as well as the prestigious Golden
Link design award. Q Admission €6-8.50.
Many more events online at
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Galleries
BESt Of 2012
Aksioma Project Space D/E-2, Komenskega
18, tel. +386 (0)590 54 360/+386 (0)590 17 010,
projectspace@aksioma.org, www.aksioma.org.
Operated by the Aksioma Institute for Contemporary Arts
- a non-profit cultural institution based in Ljubljana - the
gallery is interested in projects that take advantage of
new technologies in order to investigate and discuss the
structures of (post)modern society. Exhibitions usually
concentrate on artistic production that explores social,
political, aesthetic and ethical concerns. QOpen 12:00
- 18:00. Closed Mon, Sat, Sun.
Alkatraz Galerija F-2, Masarykova 24, tel. +386
(0)1 434 0345, fax +386 (0)1 432 3378, galerija.
alkatraz@gmail.com, www.galerijalkatraz.org. Q
Open Mon-Tues 11:00-15:00 and 16:00-20:00, and
Fri 15:00-23:00.
Galerija Equrna C-4, Gregorčičeva 3, tel. (+386)
1252 71 23, equrna@volja.net, www.equrna.si.
Modern art in an elegant white, arched space. QOpen
10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 13:00. No admission.
Galerija Kresija D-3, Stritarjeva 6, tel. (+386) 13
06 11 71. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00,
Sun 10:00 - 13:00.
Ganes Pratt Mala Galerija C-3, Slovenska 35,
tel. +386 (0)1 241 68 50/+386 (0)51 242 811, galerija@ganes-pratt.si,
www.ganes-pratt.si. Originally
founded in 2006 as an independent arts space, for the
2011/12 season has merged its programme and premises
with the Mala Galerija, a part of Ljubljana’s Museum of
Modern Art. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
Jakopič Galerija C-4, Slovenska 9, tel. (+386)
1 24 12 500, info@mestnimuzej.si, www.mestnimuzej.si.
A branch of the City Museum of Ljubljana,
the Jakopič Gallery hosts exhibitions of contemporary
art and design by Slovenian and international artists.
The programme of exhibitions focuses on the role of
contemporary art in its local environment. QOpen
10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
Mestna Galerija (City Gallery) D-3/4, Mestni
Trg 5, tel. (+386) 1 241 17 70, mestna.galerija-lj@
siol.net, www.mestna-galerija.si. The largest fine
arts exhibition space in Ljubljana, next to the Town Hall. It
also has three additional spaces. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00,
Sun 11:00 - 15:00. Closed Mon.
P74 Gallery J-2, Trg Prekomorskih Brigad 1, tel.
+386 (0)40 370 199, p74info@volja.net, www.zavodparasite.si.
QOpen 12:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Photon J-2, Trg Prekomorskih Brigad 1, tel. +386
(0)59 977 907, info@photon.si, www.photon.si. Officially
called the Centre for Contemporary Photography
of Central and South East Europe, Photon was only established
in 2003, but hosts some great exhibitions and also
organises the biennial Photonic Moments photography
festival. QOpen 11:00 - 20:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Škuc Gallery D-4, Stari Trg 21, tel./fax (+386)
1421 31 40, galerija.skuc@guest.arnes.si, www.
galerija.skuc-drustvo.si. One of the cities most popular
and important galleries, Škuc holds numerous culture
events and exhibitions throughout the year featuring
some oft he most important people in contemporary art
from throughout the region and the continent. QOpen
12:00 - 20:00. Closed Mon.
Tobačna 001 A-4, Tobačna 1, tel. (+386) 1 24 12
500, info@mgml.si, www.mgml.si. QOpen 11:00 -
19:00, Sun 11:00 - 15:00. Closed Mon.
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

SPONSORS
www.bio.si
DESIGN RELATIONS
23 rd biennial of design
museum of architecture and design
27. 9.–11. 11. 2012
AD+D: KABINET 01, Foto: Jana Urbas

18 CuLture & events
Cinemas
Foreign films are screened in the original language with
Slovenian subtitles, except for children’s films which are
usually dubbed. Aside from the largest blockbusters, films
tend to open with significant lag with respect to larger
markets, so don’t be surprised to see posters advertising
something realeased months earlier in you own country.
Tickets cost approximately €5.
Kino Dvor D-2, Kolodvorska 13, tel. (+386) 1239 22 13,
info@kinodvor.org, www.kinodvor.org. A small two-screen
art-house cinema in the city centre, which present a diverse
selection of international films - there’s also a popular bar in
the lobby for a pre- or post-film tipple.
Kinoteka D-2, Miklošičeva 28, tel. (+386) 15 47 15
80, www.kinoteka.si. The place for non-Hollywood, art
house and European films. Be sure to check the spoken
language beforehand.
Kolosej N-2, Šmartinska 152, tel. (+386) 15 20 55 00,
www.kolosej.si. A big multiscreen cinema showing popular
films inside the BTC shopping area.
Concert Halls
Gala Hala F-1, Masarykova 24, tel. (+386) 1 43 17
063, drustvo.kapa@gmail.com, www.galahala.com. As
the main concert venue in Metelkova - Ljubljana’s regionally
renowned independent cultural centre - Gala Hala hosts an
eclectic range of performances several times per week, including
many well-known acts, while functioning as a club on
other nights. The state of the art sound system and acoustics
make it a popular venue for both performers and audiences.
Hala Tivoli A/B-1, Celovška 25, tel. (+386) 1430 67
50, justina.gosak@zavod-tivoli.si, www.zavod-tivoli.si.
Opera & Ballet Ljubljana B/C-3, Župančičeva 1, tel.
+386 (0)1 24 11 766/+386 (0)31 696 600, blagajna@
opera.si, www.opera.si. After undergoing years (and years
and years) of extensive renovation, expansion and modernisation,
Ljubljana’s famed opera finally reopened to the
public just in time for the beginning of the 2011/12 season
- which also marks the institution’s 120th year anniversary.
Originally constructed in 1892, according to the plans of
Czech architects Jan V. Hráský and Anton Hruby, the building’s
Neo-Renaissance façade is one of the most impressive and
recognizable works in the country.
Philharmonic (Slovenska Filharmonija) C-4,
Kongresni Trg 10, tel. (+386) 1241 08 00, info@filharmonija.si,
www.filharmonija.si. A century old in 2008,
the esteemed Philharmonic Orchestra performs regularly
with Lebanese-born chief conductor George Pehlivanian and
various guest conductors. QOpen 07:00 - 22:00.
Conference Venues
Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre
(Gospodarsko Razstavišče) D-1, Dunajska 18, tel.
(+386) 13 00 26 11, luka.zajc@gr-sejem.si, www.
gr-sejem.si. GR, as it is known in Slovene, is the largest
Buy Tickets
Eventim B-1, Celovška 25, tel. (+386) 14 30 24 05,
info@eventim.si, www.eventim.si/portal/en. Online
ticket sales for more than 3,000 events per year, including
concerts, sports, and cultural events across Slovenia and
Central Europe. Check the offer of events and buy tickets
before you even arrive in Slovenia.
convention centre in Slovenia, and is the location of nearly
all of Ljubljana’s major conventions, fairs and trade shows.
With 20 multifunctional halls and rooms it can accommodate
thousands of visitors, and also has 1,500 parking spaces
within short walking distance. For those arriving by public
transport, it is located only 300 metres from the main train
and bus stations.
Cultural Centres
Cankarjev Dom B-3/4, Prešernova 10, tel. (+386) 12
41 71 00, info@cd-cc.si, www.cd-cc.si. This complex
from the early 1980s is a major venue for concerts, theatre,
dance, film, exhibitions and congresses.
Kino Šiška (Urban Cultural Centre) J-2, Trg Prekomorskih
Brigad 3, tel. (+386) 30 310 100, info@
kinosiska.si, www.kinosiska.si. After nearly a year of
renovation, one the city’s most iconic cinemas reopened
its doors in 2009 as an urban cultural centre featuring
several state-of-the-art preformance halls and exhibition
spaces. Dedicated to promoting contemporary music,
theatre, dance and experimental events, it already attracts
big-name regional and international artists, and is scheduled
to hosts around 200 events per year. Most concerts
are held in its largest multi-purpose hall, dubbed ‘the
Cathedral’, which can fit over 800 people. Check out their
English language website for more info and a full schedule of
events.
KUD France Prešeren K-4, Karunova 14, tel. (+386)
12 83 22 88, kud@kud-fp.si, www.kud-fp.si. A venue for
concerts, theatre, exhibitions and other events. QOpen
10:00 - 22.00, Sun 13:00 - 22:00.
Metelkova Mesto (Alternative Culture Centre)
F-1/2, Masarykova 24, www.metelkova.org. Ljubljana’s
famous artists’ colony hosts a number of clubs, most of
which play thrash style music to a dreadlocked black-clad
audience of all ages. Unfortunately little of the website is in
English so it would be a case of try it and see, but what we
can say for sure is that it provides a refreshing and alternative
alternative to the dance music found in most other clubs and
attracts a crowd who probably care more that you’re ‘cool’ as
in non-judgmental than ‘cool’ as in what you’re wearing and
how you sip your drink. Well worth checking-out both for itself
and for the philosophy behind the whole set-up.
Theatres
Most plays are in Slovenian, though every now and then
there’s a company visiting from abroad. Times given are
the box office opening hours.
City Theatre (Mestno Gledališče Ljubljansko)
C-3, Čopova 14, tel. (+386) 1251 08 52, info@mgl.si,
www.mgl.si. The MGL has two stages that are the home of
modern, progressive drama since the Yugoslav era. QOpen
12:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
National Drama Theatre (Narodno Gledališče
Drama) C-4, Erjavčeva 1, tel. (+386) 1252 15 11,
drama@drama.si, www.drama.si. With its roots reaching
back to the 1860s, Slovenia’s national theatre stages plays
from all eras. Q Open 14:00 - 17:00 and 18:00 to showtime,
Sat 18:00 to showtime, Sun closed.
Slovenian Youth Theatre (Slovensko Mladinsko
Gledališče) E-1, Vilharjeva 11, tel. (+386) 1 425 33 12,
info@mladinsko-gl.si, en.mladinsko.com. The Mladinsko
Theatre (or the SMG) is considered a laboratory for actors,
directors, choreographers and musicians to research and
develop, risk and create. It was established in the 1950s
as the first professional theatre for children and youth in
Slovenia.Q Main box office at Trg Francoske Revolucije 5 is
open Mon-Fri 12:00-17:30, Sat 10:00-13:00.
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

20 where to stay
Symbol key
P Air conditioning 6 Animal friendly
J City centre location A Credit cards accepted
H Conference facilities T Child friendly
U Facilities for the disabled F Fitness centre
L Guarded parking R Internet
G Non-smoking rooms K Restaurant
D Sauna C Swimming pool
W Wi-Fi b Breakfast
Over €170
Antiq Palace Hotel & Spa C-4, Gosposka 10, tel.
(+386) 838 96 700, fax (+386) 838 06 790, sales@
antiqpalace.com, www.antiqpalace.com. With the
opening of Antiq Palace & Spa, Ljubljana finally has a top end
boutique hotel on par with any other in the world in terms
of luxury, service and history. In fact, calling it a simply a
‘hotel’ is misleading, as it is truly a palace in every sense of
the word. The sprawling 16th century building was a former
noble residence and has been painstakingly restored to
its original splendour. Its 13 fully-equipped and beautifully
furnished residential suites range in size from 100 to 250m²,
and several unique spaces are available for business meetings,
conferences and other events. The premises also
include luxurious and intimate spa facilities, where guests
can indulge themselves with the finest treatments and then
unwind in a Jacuzzi, sauna or steam room. Q 14 suites (singles
€135-247, doubles €275-330, duplex residence €550).
PTJHARUIFLEDXW
Cubo C-4, Slovenska 15, tel. (+386) 1 425 60 00, fax
(+386) 1 425 60 20, reception@hotelcubo.com, www.
hotelcubo.com. Opened in the summer of 2011, Ljubljana’s
newest hotel is already a hit with guests - meaning reservations
are almost as difficult to come by as those at the
popular restaurant of the same name across town. Located
in the very heart of the city centre opposite the recently
re-opened Kongresni Trg square, Cubo is the epitome of a
fashionable modern urban hotel, whose interiors and façade
would look right at home splashed across the pages of
glossy design magazines. Definitely in a class of its own.
Q 26 rooms (singles €140, doubles €180, suites €350).
PJALKW
Grand Hotel Union Business D-3, Miklošičeva 3,
tel. (+386) 1308 11 70, fax (+386) 1308 19 14, hotel.
business@gh-union.si, www.gh-union.si. Attached to its
sibling Executive hotel and sharing some but not all of the
facilities on offer, accommodation comes in a choice of rooms
and suites with a slightly feminine touch, but not enough to
put off the serious male business traveller. Shared facilities
include a grand total of 21 conference and banqueting rooms,
secure parking and the pleasing fact that the best sights and
leisure activities in the city are all close at hand. Check out
their extensive website for further information. Q 133 rooms
(singles €178-212, doubles €193-227, suites €372-446).
PTJHAR6UFLGKDXCW hhhh
Grand Hotel Union Executive D-3, Miklošičeva 1, tel.
(+386) 1308 12 70, hotel.union@gh-union.si, www.ghunion.si.
In a great location in the heart of the city centre, the
Executive offers fine accommodation in a range of tastefully
decorated rooms, suites and apartments. Complete with a
lovely old world, Art Nouveau ambience, expect an excellent
choice of facilities for both business and leisure. Extras
include two decent restaurants, a small bar, airport shuttle
service and a decent gift shop. In keeping with its reputation,
the hotel also hosts the local bridge club, who meet every
Monday at 18:00. Q 194 rooms (singles €194-233, doubles
€209-248, suites €455-546). PJHAR6UFLG�
KDXCW hhhh
€100-170
Adora Rožna ulica 7, tel. +386 (0) 82 05 72 40, fax +386
(0) 82 05 72 41, info@adorahotel.si, www.adorahotel.
si. The latest addition to Gornji Trg’s array of boutique hotels,
the Adora has been instantly popular. It’s appropriately cosy,
housed in an old bourgeois residence, yet completely renovated
with the essential modern comforts. From the light and airy
reception (the ambience throughout in fact) you will wander
through to the dining room where a self-service breakfast is
served, then to the serene garden with lawn at the rear. A lift
will take you to your floor and room, where the attractive teak
furniture and subtle hint of colour will please most aesthetic
palates. We found the location ideal, in the picturesque old
town yet tucked away and quiet. PJBW
Antiq D-4, Gornji Trg 3, tel. (+386) 1 421 35 60, fax
(+386) 1 421 35 65, info@antiqhotel.eu, www.antiqhotel.eu.
A superb location in the heart of the old town with
a host of rooms to suit all tastes and budgets. Featuring a
welcoming little lobby with lots of nice feminine touches, the
rooms have been given a distinctly boutique hotel feel, with
huge wooden beds, patterned carpets, interesting paintings
on the walls and some really smart pieces of furniture. Even
the small budget economy rooms have been approached
with a tasteful eye, whereas at the other end of the spectrum
the superiors come with bags of space, lovely chandeliers
and magnificent bathrooms. Room 13 on the other hand
takes a different, more modernistic approach, with wooden
floors and minimalist furniture. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. 16
rooms (singles €85-110, doubles €156-206, extra bed €50).
PJAR6IGW hhhh
Hotel Lev
Lev C-2, Vošnjakova
1, tel. (+386) 1 433
21 55, info@hotel-lev.
si, www.hotel-lev.si.
Ljubljana’s only five-star
hotel started business in
1964 and boasts a pedigree
that has managed
to entice notable celebrities,
such as Agatha
Christie, Kirk Douglas,
Luciano Pavarotti, Bob Dylan
and countless others.
A glistening marble lobby
serves as a fine overture
to 173 high quality, airconditioned
rooms, ranging from singles through to some
exceedingly posh suites. All come complete with amenities
every guest looks for, including complementary wireless
internet access. Hotel Lev offers also conference
services and high-end Mediterranean cuisine, served
in the award-winning á la carte Restaurant Pri Levu.
Q 173 rooms (singles €200-286, doubles €240-312).
POJHAR6UFGKXW hhhhh
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
where to stay
October - November 2012
21

22 where to stay
Best Western Premier Slon C-3, Slovenska 34, tel.
(+386) 1 470 11 00, fax (+386) 1 251 71 64, sales@hotelslon.com,
www.hotelslon.com. On the site of the oldest
hotel in Ljubljana, the Slon is the best value stay in the city. For
a very reasonable price you get a ton of luxury, from a pillow
menu (yes, really) to sheets of only the purest cotton. The
breakfast is a buffet affair of the highest quality; you should
turn up early if you want to have time to taste everything. Add
in a small fitness centre and sauna, free Wi-Fi, home entertainment
centres in every room, tremendous service and a
location in the very heart of the city, and you have one hell of
a package. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. 168 rooms (singles €75 -
134, doubles €110-160, triples €165-180, suites €201-335).
PJHAR6UIGKDXW hhhh
Central D-2, Miklošičeva 9, tel. (+386)13 08 43 00, fax
(+386) 1230 11 81, central.hotel@gh-union.si, www.centralhotel.si.
The classic four-star hotel experience, the Garni
is the little brother of the three Union hotels in the city, but that
doesn’t necessarily make him a weakling. Geared up exceptionally
well for the tourist market, the reception is crammed with
the latest useful information about the city and surrounding
region, plus there’s bicycle hire during the summer. The combined
bar-restaurant isn’t too bad either, and the rooms feature
everything you need for a good value stay right in the heart of
the city centre. Excellent value accommodation indeed. Q 74
rooms (singles €90-167, doubles €100-197, suites €286-343).
PJHAR6UFGKDXCW hhhh
Ljubljana Resort Dunajska 270, tel. (+386) 1 568 39
13, fax (+386) 1 568 39 12, ljubljana.resort@gpl.si,
www.ljubljanaresort.si. Just a few kilometres out of the
center, Ljubljana Resort offers an inspiring oasis for the entire
family with accommodations in the form of hotel rooms (with
breakfast), campers, and space to set up your own tents. There
are also two large restaurants; the Laguna swimming facility
with pools and hot tubs; and quite a few indoor and outdoor
sports facilities. In the evenings, the resort regularly holds
concerts and other night time entertainment. The staff is small
but exceedingly friendly and is available 24 hours a day to make
sure that you enjoy every minute of your stay. Q 62 rooms
(singles €70-90, doubles €110-130, triples €150-170, suites
€180-230). PTHAULEGBKXCSW
€70-100
Aparthotel Vila Minka I-1, Kogovškova 10, tel. (+386) 31
66 54 31, minka@vilaminka.si, www.vilaminka.si. Several
modern rooms and apartments, Vila Minka’s family-run accommodation
has been thoughtfully designed with lots of wooden
floors, big comfortable beds, plenty of interesting art on the walls
and free wireless and cable internet access. With the apartments
ranging in size from 30 to 55 square metres, they are a great options
for visitors interested in having some extra space to make
themselves really feel at home. Located some 3km west of the
city centre near the highway exit, it can also be reached on buses
Nº5 and 22. Q 11 rooms (singles €65, doubles €80, 1-5 person
apartments €70-170). PTAR6LGXW hhh
Hotel Listings Policy
Hotels are listed strictly by price band, and then by alphabetical
order within that band. The price band refers
to the rack rate for a double room.
Medno Medno 54, tel. +386 (0)1 362 61 00, fax +386
(0)1 362 61 16, recepcija@hotel-medno.si, www.hotelmedno.si.
Located just a few minutes drive northwest of
Ljubljana, Medno offers both convenient access to the city centre
and a peaceful setting surrounded by nature, with the Sava River
meandering by across the road, numerous cycling and walking
trails in the area, and Katarina hill (one of Ljubljana’s most popular
weekend hiking spots) just behind the property. The hotel
itself has a wide range of good value rooms, as well as seminar
facilities, a relaxing wellness centre and a fine restaurant. For
those without their own transport, city bus #25 also stops just
down the street. Q 97 beds (singles €57-64, doubles €74-84,
suites €75-104). PTHAR6LGKXW hhh
Park E-2/3, Tabor 9, tel. (+386) 1 300 25 00, info@
hotelpark.si, www.hotelpark.si. The brightly coloured Hotel
(and Hostel) Park conceals a number of good value standard,
superior, family rooms and suites, all providing different amenities
depending on the cost. All of the rooms in hotel come with
en suite facilities,TV, telephone, hairdryer and WiFi, while the
superior ones also include a LAN internet connection, air
conditioning and mini-bar. However, for us the single most
impressive highlight here are the outstanding views from the
upper floors, which are some of the best in the city. There’s
a restaurant and bar as well, and a free internet connection
in the lobby. Daytrips around Slovenia plus airport pick-up
also available on request. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. 200 rooms
(singles €60-110, doubles €80-150, apartments €150-180).
PTJHAR6UGXW hhh
Under €70
Center C-2, Slovenska 51, tel. (+386) 15 20 06 40/
(+386) 41 26 33 47, fax (+386) 15 20 06 44, info@
hotelcenter.si, www.hotelcenter.si. This eight-room
family-run affair is hard to beat in terms of location and price.
The rooms are a bit on the Spartan side, but not without their
own charm, owing in large part to the premises: a renovated
19th-century government building with high ceilings and
splashes of exposed stonework. Run by the same people
as Café Compañeros downstairs, there are often packages
available - including free dinner and/or drinks - if you’re staying
at least two nights and inquire about them in advance. Q 8
rooms (doubles €50-66, triples €75). 6W
This magnificent Secessionist building on Ljubljana’s main
pedestrian street Čopova will soon be home to the Hostel
Tresor - combining luxury and affordable accommodation
within walking distance of all the city’s attractions.
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Apartments
Kollmann Apartments D-4, Cankarjevo Nabrežje 27,
tel. +386 (0)51 268 288, info@ljubljana-apartments.eu,
www.ljubljana-apartments.eu. Just opened as we were
going to print with our August/September 2012 edition, these
two beautifully renovated luxury apartments right in the centre
of the old town are truly a sight to behold - and for a limited time
can be had for special opening prices that make them almost
as cheap as dorm beds in a hostel. The highlight of the smaller
unit is the king-sized waterbed located in a loft bedroom separated
from the living room below, while the larger apartment is
absolutely huge, with two bedrooms, a full bathtub and a washing
machine. Both apartments have fully-equipped kitchenettes,
brand new LCD TVs and free internet, while the larger of the
two also has great views of the Ljubljanica and old town below.
Q Apartment 1 (2-3 people) €93, Apartment 2 (6-8) €176.
PTJA6GXW
Hostels
Celica F-1/2, Metelkova ulica 8, tel. (+386) 12 30 97 00,
info@souhostel.com, www.hostelcelica.com. Ljubljana’s
legendary Celica hostel and surrounding buildings close to the
bus and train stations and the city centre started life in the
19th century as an Austro-Hungarian military barracks. Once
a prison, many of Celica’s rooms have preserved their original
character, providing a cheap and definitely quirky place to spend
the night behind bars. Other rooms are also available as well
as dormitories to sleep from four to 12 people. There’s even a
room for disabled guests, plus a huge range of other facilities
such as kitchen, laundry, internet access, tourist information
and bicycle hire. The hostel’s café serves excellent value set
lunches every day. Q 29 rooms (rooms €19-32 per bed, dorms
€19-25per bed). PJHAR6ULGKW h
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
where to stay
Hostel Print J-4, Rožna Dolina IV/34, tel. (+386) 51
387 111, info@hostelprint.com, www.hostelprint.com.
Ljubljana’s newest hostel is actually more of a budget hotel as
all accommodation is in single, double and triple rooms, which
are fully furnished and even include fridges. Tasty home-made
breakfasts are also included in the price and easily exceed
what you get at most other budget options. However, the place
still manages to maintain a laid back hostel vibe with several
common areas and a huge terrace off the kitchen. Located in
the student neighbourhood of Rožna Dolina, it’s a short walk to
the centre or a quick ride on bus 14 (hop off opposite Mercator).
Q 23 rooms (singles €22.99, doubles €19.99, triples €16.99,
four bed €15.99). PTAR6LGXW
Vila Veselova B-3, Veselova 14, tel. (+386) 59 92 67 21,
desk@v-v.si, www.v-v.si. Located in a lovely 19th-century mansion
in the western part of the city centre, while Vila Veselova is
aimed at the young travelling crowd who like to relax, it’s also offers
one of the more atmospheric stays in town. Simply furnished with
a range of rooms and dormitories, some with and some without
en suite facilities and all named after a different colour. Q 8 rooms
(single €45, double €56, 4-bed dorms €20, 6-bed dorms €16,
8-bed dorms €16). JARLGW hh
Couchsurfing
Who says that beggars can’t be choosers? There are literally
hundreds of sociable Slovenes currently offering their (or their
parents’) spare rooms, couches and floors for free to fellow
travellers. The site, which combines social networking with hostel
booking, is a great option for anyone interested in hanging
out with locals and saving some cash on accommodation. It
can obviously be a hit-or-miss experience, but the exhaustive
member profiles will give you a good idea of what to expect
from your prospective hosts. Info www.couchsurfing.org
October - November 2012
23

24 restaurants
Symbol key
P Air conditioning 6 Animal friendly
J City centre location A Credit cards accepted
H Conference facilities T Child friendly
U Facilities for the disabled F Fitness centre
L Guarded parking R Internet
G Non-smoking rooms K Restaurant
D Sauna C Swimming pool
W Wi-Fi
Asian
Shambala C-4, Križevniška 12, tel. +386 (0)1 4 26 30
14/+386 (0)31 843 833, info@shambala.si, www.shambala.si.
Not only does Shambala’s kitchen turn out some of the
best (and spiciest) Asian cuisine in Slovenia, but the tranquil,
almost meditative, ambience of the place allows you to enjoy
your meal in a state of perfect relaxation - with some of the
best service in town thrown in as an added benefit. During
the warmer months, diners can also take advantage of the
pleasant little garden that is tucked away in one of the buildings
inner courtyards. Situated down a narrow alleyway off Breg, this
hidden gem is definitely worth finding. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00.
Closed Sun. (€3.50-9.50). PTJAGBK
Balkan
Gostilnica Rio-Momo C-3, Slovenska 28, tel. (+386) 31
751 751/(+386) 14 25 32 26, portalm@siol.net, www.
riomomo.si. Situated between the central post office and
Kongresni Trg on the city’s main thoroughfare, we’ve never found
the exterior to be the most inviting but once you get inside it’s
actually quite warm and cosy. The thick leather covers on the
menus portend the ample selection of grilled meat dishes within,
although vegetarians have a handful of a pastas and salads
to choose from as well. On your way in don’t forget to check
the table outside for flyers entitling you to a free glass of wine.
QOpen 11:00 - 23:00. (€6-19). PTJAUSW
Sarajevo ‘84 C-3, Nazorjeva 12, tel. (+386) 1 425 71
06, ljubljana@sarajevo84.si, www.sarajevo84.si. One of
Ljubljana’s more atmospheric Bosnian restaurants occupies
the subterranean premises of a former jazz club and sports
an interior somewhat reminiscent of a pub - walls plastered
with memorabilia from the 1984 Winter Olympics, arched brick
ceilings and old black and white Yugoslav tourist videos playing
on a projection screen. The menu only has two main dishes, so
ordering comes down to which shape you prefer your meat to
take: sausages (ćevapčići) or a patty (pljeskavica), both of which
come with bread and diced onions. QOpen 10:00 - 00:00, Sat,
Sun 12:00 - 22:00. (€4.30-5.80). TJA6UEBS
Buffet
Restaurant 2000 C-3, Trg Republike 1, tel. (+386) 5
128 53 34, www.maxi.si/si/restavracija-2000. A vast
underground filling station for budget-conscious city slickers such
as construction workers, Korean businessmen and of course the
obligatory sprinkling of students. Grab a tray, throw on some meat,
mashed potato, rice, salad, whatever, don’t forget to pick up a soft
drink, pay and eat. The food isn’t going to win any awards, but
it’s more than good enough especially for the price. Find it deep
inside the bowels of Maxi Market. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Sat
09:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. (€5-7). PJGBSW
Fish
Taverna Tatjana D-5, Gornji Trg 38, tel. +386 (0)1 421
00 87/+386 (0)41 707 900, laura.b@siol.net, www.
taverna-tatjana.si. Dining at this impossibly quaint and
homey house tucked away on Gornji Trg is akin going over to
your aunt’s for dinner - if only your aunt were able to prepare
exquisite Dalmatian dishes and lived in a house decorated to
resemble the luxurious living quarters on an old wooden sailing
ship. The tables are arranged haphazardly to take advantage
of the various little nooks that provide for a more intimate
meal, and there’s just the right amount of wear and tear that a
place like this needs to feel authentic. QOpen 17:00 - 24:00.
Closed Sun. (€7-24). PTJA6UGBSW
Indian
Tandoori E-3, Trubarjeva 60, tel. +386 (0)40 549
472/+386 (0)40 549 161, lokal.tandoori@gmail.com,
www.tandoori.si. Such is the lack of good, reasonably-priced
ethnic food in Ljubljana that rumours of this place’s imminent
opening were swirling excitedly around the city’s expat community
for months before the smells of curry finally began filling the air
near the eastern end of Trubarjeva Ulica. Thus it was with high
expectations that we shortly thereafter joined the line of eager
patrons outside Ljubljana’s first Indian takeaway, and emerged
happy to report that all is as it should be: fresh, spicy, fragrant
cuisine from the subcontinent for under €5. If we had to choose
one standout it would likely be the chicken curry naan wraps, but
we have yet to be disappointed by anything on the menu. QOpen
11:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. JS
International
As C-3, Čopova 5A, Knafljev prehod, tel. (+386) 1425 88
22, gostilna.as@siol.net, www.gostilnaas.si. Exquisite
presentation and service mark the legendary As out as one
of the most expensive dining experiences in the city. Brimming
with antiques and well-behaved waiters, sit amidst opulent
detritus and feast from a menu including more fancy dishes
Head to Shambala for superb Asian cuisine and an
impressive wine list
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

than you could eat in a year including baked potatoes with
caviar, lamb cutlet with honey and truffles plus a battalion
of fabulous desserts. And if that’s not enough, the wine list
includes everything one could possibly need to accompany
the rich and varied food. QOpen 12:00 - 01:00. (€4.50-31).
PJAGB
Bistro C-3, Kongresni Trg 3, tel. +386 (0)1 421 90 91,
www.zvezdaljubljana.si. It didn’t take long for Kongresni
Trg, and Zvezda Park, to resume their rightful place as the
heart of Ljubljana’s city centre after reopening to the public
in 2011 (now resting on top of a shiny new subterranean
parking garage). Thus is was only a matter of time before
a restaurant or two moved in to satiate the appetites of a
hungry citizens. While Bistro is minimalist in décor, its menu
of gourmet lunches and light snacks are nothing if not decadent,
and its sophisticated wine list is complimented by an
ample selection of cocktails for those wishing to drop by for
an after work or late night tipple. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sat
10:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. JAS
NEW
Hotel Cubo Restaurant Slovenska 15, tel. +386 (0)1
425 60 30, www.hotelcubo.com. For fine modern dining
right in the heart of the city centre, look no further than
the ground floor of Hotel Cubo. Just steps away from some
of Ljubljana’s top cultural venues (Cankarjev Dom, Drama
Theatre and the Slovenian Philharmonic) Cubo is a popular
choice for a pre- or post-performance dinner. The tranquil
interior and professional service also makes it a common
destination for important business lunches, while gourmet
cuisine is creatively prepared with the freshest ingredients,
and complimented by an exquisite wine list. Free kerbside
valet service and shuttles for groups of four or more guests
are added bonuses.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
restaurants
JB D-1, Miklošičeva 17, tel. (+386) 14 33 13 58/(+386)
14 74 72 19, janez.bratovz@siol.net, www.jb-slo.com.
Firmly entrenched as one of the best restaurants in town, this
fine dining experience comes courtesy of founder and head chef
Janez Bratovž (hence the name). Located in one of Jože Plečnik’s
more imposing secessionist-style buildings, JB attracts a mix
of well-to-do locals and visiting businessmen - guaranteeing
you the chance to eavesdrop on conversations in a variety of
languages. The menu is comprised entirely of seasonal specialities
and changes daily, with exotic offerings such as bear meat
appearing from time to time. The only downside is the price,
easily topping €50 per person for a proper meal with wine.
QOpen 12:00 - 23:00, Sat 18:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun.
Maxim C-3, Trg Republike 1, tel. +386 (0)51 28 53 35,
maxim@mercator.si, www.maxi.si. In the heart of the city
centre this modern, business-orientated restaurant provides
a fine menu of dishes including duck breast with mashed
potatoes, soups, seafood, and a galaxy of fabulous puddings.
There’s a huge wine list too, and a nice terraced area complete
with water features for quality outdoor summer dining.
Q Open 12:00-23:00 Mon-Fri, open Sat by prior agreement.
Closed Sun. (€40 and more). PJALGBS
Nebotičnik C-3, Štefanova 1, tel. +386 (0)5 907 03 95,
info@neboticnik.si, www.neboticnik.si. This restaurant on
the 10th floor of the Nebotičnik building looks like something
out of New York in the 1920s (or at least films set in New York
in the 1920s). A wooden spiral staircase leads down to the
large dining area which has been completely restored from the
stone floors to the high recessed ceilings, including furniture
custom-designed in the style of the 80 year-old originals. With
sweeping views of the city in all directions, it offers a dining
experience like none other in Ljubljana. Q Open 12:00-21:00
and with prior arrangement. (€7-24). PJALEG
October - November 2012
25

26 restaurants
Paninoteka + C/D-4, Jurčičev Trg 3, tel. +386 (0)41
256 714. Ljubljana’s most famous sandwich shop reopened
its doors after a lengthy renovation, and now includes a fullfledged
restaurant and café (in addition to the original soup
and sandwiches of course) on the expanded premises. The
à la carte selection leans towards the Italian, with homemade
gnocchi and ravioli standing out, but also offers a handful of
Slovene favourites, and the constantly changing daily lunch
specials are a good value. The warm cosy atmosphere is
also conducive to dropping in for an evening drink or dessert.
Q Open Mon-Thurs 08:00-23:00, Fri 08:00-24:00, Sat
09:00-24:00 and Sun 09:00-22:00. Sandwiches €3.10-3.80.
Main dishes €7.50-18.60. PJABW
Plato C-2, Ajdovščina 1, tel. (+386) 1230 84 80, plato@
siol.net, plato.si. Located right in the centre of town next
to one of Ljubljana’s most recognisable modern buildings - a
twisting white office tower that takes some interesting architectural
liberties - this restaurant is something of an oasis
above the bustling square below. The lunch-time only menu is
international with a focus on light and healthy Mediterraneaninspired
dishes, and can change daily depending on what is
in season or just especially fresh that day at local markets.
If you’re not too keen on the day’s set menus you can also
order à la carte. QOpen 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
(€4.5 - 22). PTJAGBXSW
Romansa 1971 C-3, Trg Republike 1, tel. +386 (0)51
285 339, romansa.maxi@mercator.si, www.maxi.si.
This restaurant on the ground floor of the Maxi Market shopping
centre still manages to exude a small bistro-like ambiance,
thanks in large part to its pleasant soft lighting, beige
tones and open kitchen. Floor to ceiling windows and ample
seating on the terrace also offer some prime people watching
for those who are interested. The menu tends towards light
AS RESTAURANT
AS CAFE
THE RESTAURANT THAT CHANGED GASTRONOMY IN LJUBLJANA.
Knafljev prehod -
100m from Prešeren Square
every day 10:00-01:00
T: +386 (0)1 425 88 22
gostilna.as@siol.net
www.gostilnaas.si
and fresh international dishes, and the place is exceedingly
popular for business lunches - which can be viewed in advance
on the restaurant’s website. QOpen 07:30 - 20:00, Sat
08:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. PJALB
Smrekarjev Hram D-3, Nazorjeva 2, tel. (+386) 1 308
19 75, smrekarjev.hram@gh-union.si, www.gh-union.
si. Another of Ljubljana’s upscale eateries, Smrekarjev Hram
features a wide menu and a long wine list. Make sure you
leave room for a main and a dessert, where you can select
from a range of fish or meat dishes such as grilled sea bass
or beef in goose liver sauce, finishing off with raspberry pie
or baked fig with vanilla ice-cream. The elegant interior of
Smrekarjev Hram is offset by the funky multi-colored straw
sculptures which add a touch of fun to somewhere with
more than a touch of class. QOpen 12:00 - 23:00. PT�
JA6ULEGBSW
For those who understand the taste of perfection - JB
restaurant, photo by Marijan Močivnik, www.studio-ajd.si
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Sputnik Cosmic Caffe I-4, Tržaška 128, tel. (+386) 1
42 32 372, fax (+386) 1 25 66 795, dobrodosli@sputnik.
si, www.sputnik.si. Modern and trendy, yet welcoming and
unpretentious, Sputnik may be more known as a nightlife
venue for Ljubljana’s up and coming elite, but during the day
it’s a popular breakfast and lunch time stop for out-of-town
businessmen, white collar workers with offices nearby, and
even the odd student who appreciates a subtle ambiance.
The menu changes daily, but it tends to lean towards lighter
Mediterranean fare with pastas, soups, salads and the like.
One of the warm breakfasts accompanied by a strong
espresso is a great way to start a day. Q Open Mon-Thur
06:30-24:00, Fri 06:30-02:00, Sat 08:00-02:00 and Sun
09:00-22:00. PALEBW
Štern Dunajska 270, tel. +386 (0)1 589 01 28/+386
(0)51 348 994, info@gpl.si, www.gostilna-stern.si.
The sprawling country-style restaurant located within the
premises of the Ljubljana Resort in the north of the city
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
restaurants
frequently hosts celebrations, reunions and other such large
jovial gatherings. Another option for groups in search of fresh
air is arranging a picnic in advance, which includes food, drinks
and use of the resorts facilities. The menu is focussed primarily
on grilled and fried meat dishes with healthy heaps of
side orders, but the fish is also excellent - it is located next to
the Sava River after all. Try to visit on Saturday nights, when
there are themed culinary nights with live music and the doors
stay open late. QOpen 07:00 - 22:00.
Mediterranean
Allegria C-3, Nazorjeva 8, tel. (+386) 1 426 74 02, info@
allegria.si, www.allegria.si. Tucked away in a courtyard
behind a large terrace, this long-running Ljubljana eatery has
recently shifted the focus of its menu to the Mediterranean,
with an extra emphasis on Slovenia’s coastal regions. Seasonal
specials are regularly offered, with the most popular
dishes finding a home on the permanent menu - the recent
October - November 2012
27

28 restaurants
Days of Karst Cuisine has contributed a traditional risotto
using Jamar sir (a cheese aged in caves) for example - and
the entire menu is naturally complimented by an excellent wine
list. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 -
17:00. (€7-19). PTJA6UEGBSW
Pizza
Foculus C-4, Gregorčičeva 3, tel. (+386) 1 421 92
95, foculus@siol.net, www.picerija.net/foculus.htm.
Magnificently decorated once you’re through the slightly out
of place automatic doors, with autumn leaves painted on the
vaulted ceilings and red, yellow and orange plates built into
the roof of the large wood-fired pizza oven. The large and
busy Foculus specialises in 66 varieties of pizza, including
20 for vegetarians and eight with seafood. The salads are
also particularly good. The place can get rather hectic in
the evenings, so don’t be surprised if you have to wait a few
minutes for a table. It was also recently named Best Pizzeria in
Ljubljana by IYP readers. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. (€5.70-8.40).
PTJAUGBS
Parma B/C-4, Trg Republike 2, tel. (+386) 1426 82 22,
foculus@siol.net, www.picerija.net/parma.htm. A quirky
little one, this. As well as a couple of ordinary tables, most
dining here is done at the large bar from where the food is
cooked and served. Find an empty stool, make your order
and away you go. And while you’re waiting for your pizza to
arrive, take a look at the large photographs on the wall of the
construction of the area you’re eating in. Find it hidden away
down the stairs and on the right at the southern end of Maxi
Market. QOpen 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00. Closed
Sun. (€3.90-6.20). TJA6ULGBXSW
Pizzeria Osmica C-3, Nazorjeva 8, tel. (+386) 14 26
58 72, info@osmica.si, www.osmica.si. Located on the
narrow pedestrian street that runs parallel to Čopova, Osmica
is essentially the pizza and salad annex of the longer-running
Allegria in the courtyard around the corner. An impressivelooking
menu of twenty salads and perhaps twice as many
pizzas are on offer in a comfortable faux-rustic setting - think
lots of wood and stone with an open kitchen. We stop by for
lunch quite a bit, and have yet to be disappointed. QOpen
11:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. (€5.50-
7.90). PTJA6UBSW
Quick Eats
Burger King M-2, Šmartinska 152 (Citypark), tel.
(+386) 1 520 01 47. After being more or less raised on
fast food in the US, we consider ourselves something of an
expert on the subject, and as such we can say unequivocally
that Burger King easily comes out ahead when compared
to any other internationally known burger joint (not naming
any names of course). If you don’t believe us, head to the
food court on the first floor of CityPark and try a Whopper
for yourself. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 - 21:00, Sun
09:00 - 15:00. (€2.80-5.80). PTAULGS
Falafel E-3, Trubarjeva 40/(+386) 41 64 01 66, www.aljashaar.com/falafel.htm.
A tiny little place churning out delicious
falafel-based delicacies plus the usual array of pizzas and burgers.
An excellent choice for vegetarians on the move, expect long
queues during the busy lunchtime period. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00,
Sun 13:00 - 22:00. (€1-7). JA6UVGS
Hot Horse B-2, Tivoli Park kiosk, tel. (+386) 15 21
14 27, master@hot-horse.si, www.hot-horse.si. Eating
horses may horrify most British visitors, but that’s only
because they’ve watched too much Mr Ed and have never
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

tried it. It’s low in fat, rich in proteins and easy to digest - so
swap your steed for a car and get grilling. Hot Horse serves
healthy horseburgers from a small kiosk in Tivoli Park and
just outside BTC. QOpen 09:00 - 06:00, Mon 10:00 - 06:00.
(€1.50-5.50). J6UBXS
Surf’n’Fries C-3, Plečnikov Trg. Several weeks ago we
began noticing people carrying around boxes of fries (or chips
as we would say) in the city centre, and it turns out that this
place is the culprit. Opened in November, we’re still not sure
where the ‘surf’ part of the name comes in (as seafood is
not on the menu), but they do offer heaping portions of fries
prepare in a variety of ways and accompanied by a selection of
sauces, as well as some deep fried chicken dishes to satisfy
the non-vegetarians. If you’re feeling especially adventurous,
try the house speciality chocolate covered fries - apparently
the first in the world. QOpen 06:00 - 04:00, Sat 08:00 -
04:00, Sun 16:00 - 24:00. €2.10-4.50.
Slovenian
In a way, there’s no such thing as Slovenian food - with
sheep and cows on its mountain pastures giving meat and
milk products, the Mediterranean providing fresh seafood,
and with influences from the Balkans, Austria and Italy,
you might as well call it world cuisine. One thing that is
unique is the gostilna, the traditional, rustic, family-owned
Slovenian inn providing affordable and honest homemade
food that would make your granny grin.
Druga Violina Stari trg 21, tel. +386 (0)82 05 25 06,
druga.violina@center-db.si. Good locally grown produce,
a simple short menu of Slovene classics, top location in
the city’s old town, but there’s a twist in the tale with the
‘other violin’ (as the English translation of the name goes).
It’s actually a project for people with special needs, who
produce much of the food on farmland near Ljubljana and
also work as waiting staff in the restaurant itself. Come
and see what it’s all about, while enjoying one of the fresh
local dishes either in the rustic dining room or on the delightful
cobbled pavement outside. QOpen 07:00 - 24:00.
PJAUBW
Eksperiment C-4, Slovenska 10, tel. +386 (0)64
160 184, restavracija.eksperiment@gmail.com, www.
eksperiment.si. Offering a bit of everything for everyone,
Eksperiment is a difficult place to get an good feel for, which
makes the name all the more appropriate. Judging solely
from the interior décor and soft moody lighting, you would
be forgiven for thinking it’s an upscale Asian eatery or trendy
bar, while in actuality it’s a morning till late night restaurant
(the kitchen stays open till 03:00!) that specialises in grilled
chicken and pork ribs, and serves homemade beer by the
pitcher. Of course they also offer breakfast, a fine selection
of coffee and an impressive drinks menu, so make of it what
you will. Q Open Mon 08:00-24:00, Tue-Sat 08:00-03:00,
Sun 12:00-22:00. €5-11. PJABSW
Gostilna Na Gradu D-4, Grajska Planota 1, tel. +386
(0)8 205 19 30/+386 (0)31 301 777, leon@nagradu.
si, www.nagradu.si. Decidedly upmarket in appearance
and service, the prices are surprisingly modest - especially
given the truly unique location and dining experience that
goes along with it. Na Gradu’s award-winning chefs pride
themselves on the expert preparation of Slovenia’s diverse
range of traditional dishes, which have been developed over
the centuries in the country’s 24 separate gastronomic
regions, with nearly all of the ingredients being locally produced.
QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 18:00. (€3.50-14).
PTJA6ULBS
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restaurants
October - November 2012
29

30 restaurants
Gostilnica Rimska XXI B-4, Rimska 21, tel. (+386) 1
256 56 54, gostilnica.xxi@gmail.com, www.r-g.si/xxi.
With its low arched ceilings, moody red walls and touch of
rustic furnishings this homey low-key restaurant has already
become one of our favourite places to come when we’re in
the mood for traditional Slovene cuisine it a great setting.
Fresh homemade dishes of all sorts are are the speciality
here, including deer, fish and wood-baked meats, and the
menu changes daily depending on the season and whims of
the head chef. Even the beer, juice and brandy is homemade,
and there’s also an excellent selection of Slovene wines.
QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sat 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
(€6-20). PTJA6IB
Manna C/D-5, Eipprova 1a, tel. (+386) 5 992 23 08,
info@kulinarika-manna.si, www.kulinarika-manna.si. Set
in a colourful little house on one of Ljubljana’s prettiest (and
most overlooked) streets, Manna offers a divine selection
of contemporary Slovene cuisine for breakfast, lunch and
dinner. Meals are complimented with some tasty homemade
desserts and large choice of both Slovene and foreign wines,
as well as a sophisticated selection of spirits (aged rums,
cognacs and whiskeys) and cigars for after dinner. A large
garden and terrace in the back is open all year, and many
people come here to enjoy a coffee, sweets or light snack.
QOpen , Mon, Tue, Wed 07:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri 07:00 - 01:00,
Sat 08:00 - 01:00, Sun 08:00 - 16:00. Holidays 08:00-22:00
(€5-20). PTJA6UGBS
Pomf Trubarjeva 40, tel. +386 41 868 582, www.pomf.
si. Just around the corner from Ljubljana’s famous Dragon
Bridge, this place is refreshingly the opposite of a tourist trap:
preparing high-quality authentic Slovene cuisine at reasonable
prices. It also has a cosy unassuming cosy interior that
is much larger than it looks from the street, and includes
a separate dining area in the cellar with an exposed brick
vaulted ceiling - a perfect retreat for couples. There’s even
live music in the evenings. Of course it’s the food that brings
people here, and the house specialities include game goulash
(with deer and wild boar), bograč and jota (classic Slovene
stews), various grilled dishes and something called Emperor’s
fingers. Q Open 09:00-24:00, Fri 09:00-01:00, Sat 12:00-
01:00, Sun and holidays 12:00-24:00. €3.50-11.50.
Špajza D-5, Gornji Trg 28, tel. (+386) 1 425 30 94, info@
spajza-lj.si, www.spajza-restaurant.si. An exceedingly
classy affair with chunky, creaking wooden floors, a number
of different rustic-feel rooms to eat in, an extensive menu of
Slovenian and international dishes, and an antique silver cash
register in the entrance. Located on one of the old town’s
quaintest most photogenic streets, it’s popular with many
people including business professionals, tourists and couples.
During the summer months they have one of the most
romantic courtyards in Ljubljana. QOpen 12:00 - 23:00, Sun
12:00 - 22:00. (€7.50-15). JA6GBS
Vegetarian
Ajdovo Zrno D-3, Trubarjeva 7, ajdovo.zrno@gmail.com,
www.satwa.si. This popular vegetarian café is tucked away
in a cute little courtyard just off Trubarjeva, a busy pedestrian
street. Colourful is the first word that springs to mind when
you enter, with bright walls and table cloths decorating the
dining room and outdoor terrace. Food-wise there are loads
of choices: everything from soups, sandwiches, tortillas and
even lasagne to fresh fruits and juices, cakes, milkshakes and
smoothies. It’s all served ‘pick and mix’ style from a canteen
with every kind of vegetable you can imagine - and probably
even some you can’t. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
(€2-6). PJABS
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Symbol key
P Air conditioning 6 Animal friendly
J City centre location A Credit cards accepted
H Conference facilities T Child friendly
U Facilities for the disabled F Fitness centre
L Guarded parking R Internet
G Non-smoking rooms K Restaurant
D Sauna C Swimming pool
W Wi-Fi
Ljubljana’s café culture has always been one of our favourite
things about the city. When the weather’s nice the entire
old town is abuzz with activity at the pavement cafés
that line nearly every street. During the colder months
things move indoors, but thanks to the national smoking
ban you’re still apt to find a fair amount of patrons outside
huddled under heat lamps and blankets puffing away on
coffee’s significant other. The most popular places can be
found along the Ljubljanica on Cankarjevo Nabrežje and
Petkovškovo Nabrežje on the opposite bank, but with so
many options to choose from just wandering around until
you find a place you fancy is never a bad option.
Cacao D-3, Petkovškovo Nabrežje 3, tel. +386 (0)1
430 17 71, info@cacao.si, www.cacao.si. If you like
ice-cream, and who doesn’t, then this is your place. Along
with the usual coffee, tea, wine and beer, Cacao serves
up scoops of ice-cream which you can enjoy indoors or out
on the terrace overlooking the river. Fruit and ice-cream is
around €5 a serving and if you want a bit of a kick with your
cream, go for one of the alcohol-spiked varieties. There are
also plenty of child-friendly shakes and servings available,
as well as a mouthwatering selection of cakes and other
desserts. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. sumertime 08:00 - 00:00
PTJA6UGBSW
Café Plato C-2, Ajdovščina 1, tel. (+386) 1 230 84
80, plato@siol.net, plato.si. A stylish café offering a wide
selection of great ice creams, cakes and tiny tarts in a unique
glass-walled space right in the centre of town, its outdoor
seating area is a fine place for some people watching on a
sunny afternoon. There’s also a restaurant upstairs, so if
you’re feeling like a bit more than a snack you may want to
inquire about what’s on offer that day. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00.
Closed Sun. (€2-3). PTJA6GBKSW
Čajnica Gallus D-4, Gallusovo Nabrežje 27. Although
we’ve had dozens of coffees here, under pressure we’d have
to admit that we don’t really remember what the interior looks
like, as the pleasant riverside terrace - located on one of the
Ljubljanica’s generally less crowded embankments - is this
place’s raison d’être, although their grilled ham and cheese
sandwiches, or simply ‘toast’ in Slovene parlance, are also not
unknown to us. Be aware that when the weather is nice calling
the service slow would be a compliment. PJAB
Čolnarna A-3, 27th of Aprila 2a (Tivoli Park), tel. +386
(0)1 256 50 90, info@colnarna.si, www.colnarna.si. Set
near a lake in the southern part of Tivoli Park, this spacious
café dates back some 120 years, and is a calm oasis only a
few minutes’ walk from the heart of the bustling city centre.
A great place for a coffee and croissant in the morning, a
cold beer in the afternoon or a 2-for-1 cocktail in the evening,
Čolnarna offers something for everyone, but is especially
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
CaFÉs
well-suited for families and children, with outdoor play areas
situated nearby and a specially-built ‘Kids Corner’ inside for
younger children. The ice cream and various other desserts
are also roundly excellent. Q Open 08:00-24:00 in summer,
08:00-21:00 in winter. PTJA6UGBXS
Divine D-3, Cankarjevo Nabrežje 7, tel. +386 (0)1 252
72 07, www.kavarna-divine.si. A family-run pastry shop
with nearly eight decades of experience, Divine recently underwent
some extensive renovations, which both modernised
the place and made it nearly indistinguishable from the other
cafés and bars lining the riverfront between Tromostovje
and Cobblers’ Bridges - at least on the outside. The interior
is surprisingly a fairly hip looking space, with some stylish
chair and unique mosaics on the walls. Not a bad place to
sample a Slovene cake or indulge with a gourmet ice cream
concoction during the summer. QOpen 08:00 - 24:00.
PTJUNGBSW
Kavarna in Slaščičarna Maxi C-3, Trg Republike 1,
tel. +386 (0)5 128 53 42, slascicarna.maxi@mercator.
si, www.maxi.si. The café and pastry shop on the ground
floor of the Maxi Market shopping centre is one of the more
regal places in town to enjoy some coffee and cake. It’s central
location makes it a popular spot for meetings, and the
proximity to the National Assembly, the headquarters of the
country’s largest bank and various embassies guarantees
that you’ll be rubbing elbows with some of Slovenia’s real
power brokers. QOpen 07:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sun. PAUBSW
Kavarna Maček D-4, Krojaška 5, tel. (+386) 14 25 37
91, macek@lj-kabel.net, www.sobe-macek.si. Reassuringly
scruffy after so many good-looking places in the area,
gurgle down some tea, coffee or something a little stronger in
October - November 2012
31

32 CaFÉs
the safe confines of four bright orange walls decorated with
some nice black and white photographic portraits of both
people and Ljubljana itself. Extremely popular with families
toting young children during the weekends. QOpen 09:00 -
00:30, Sun 09:00 - 23:00. TJA6UGBSW
NEW
Lux Cafe C/D-3, Nazorjeva 6, tel. +386 (0)51 21 00
00, info@luxclub.si, www.luxclub.si. Right in the heart of
the city centre, you’re never far from Lux Cafe. With its new
inColour theme, the terrace is great place to start the day
with a cup of tasty creamy coffee in the morning sunshine.
Fresh croissants are available in the morning hours, and if
you’re in a hurry they also have takeaway coffee. When the
afternoon comes, try one of the colourful cocktails that are
often discounted to unbelievable prices, and return by night
to visit the popular club downstairs. QOpen 06:00 - 22:00,
Sat 09:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. JBS
Nebotičnik Café C-3, Štefanova 1, tel. +386 (0)40 60
17 87, info@neboticnik.si, www.neboticnik.si. After being
shuttered for nearly a decade, the best views in the city
are once again open to the public. Occupying the top floor of
Ljubljana’s famed Nebotičnik (or Skyscraper) building - which
was the highest residential structure in Europe when it opened
in 1933 - the terrace’s 360 degree views from Alps to the
castle to the hills in the south are truly breathtaking, and the
coffee, cocktails and homemade cakes are worth trying as
well. This is a must see stop for all visitors. Q Open Sun-Wed
09:00-01:00, Thur-Sat 09:00-03:00. PA6USW
STA Travel Café C-2, Ajdovščina 1, tel. (+386) 1 439
16 90, fax (+386) 1 439 16 95, info@staljubljana.com,
www.staljubljana.com. Connected to the Ljubljana branch
of STA travel via a doorway at the back, this centrally-located
café is a popular destination in its own right - and it’s not hard
to see why. A huge first floor terrace is loaded with comfy
wooden furniture including wicker couches and even a couple
of sun beds, and despite the proximity to Ljubljana’s main
road you can still enjoy quiet drink in the sun. Inside is just as
comfortable, and they’ve recently added hot sandwiches,
pizzas and other light snacks to the menu. It also wouldn’t
be a travel café without the bi-monthly presentations of
exotic locales around the globe - check the chalk board
for upcoming events. QOpen 08:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun.
PTJ6GBXW
Top Six Café C-3, Tomšičeva 2, tel. +386 (0)40 66 77
22, info@klubtop.si, www.topsixclub.si. This recently
renovated top floor café offers excellent coffee, homemade
cakes and freshly squeezed orange juice, and of course marvellous
views of Ljubljana Castle. In the evenings stop by for a
select range of quality wines, cognacs and speciality finger
foods. A perfect place to linger on a sunny afternoon or warm
evening. To get there take a panoramic ride in the glass-walled
lift from the arcade opposite the main post office. Q Lounge
open Mon-Sat 08:00-23:00. PJAEGBKW
Zvezda C-3, Wolfova 14, tel. (+386) 14 21 90 90, kavarna.zvezda@siol.net.
A bustling café frequented by a battalion
of clients from students to pearl-laden old ladies. Zvezda’s
décor leans in the direction of your classic Buddha lounge, with
a scattering of Oriental statues and some fine brown velvet
wallpaper. Not the cheapest café in town, your money is at least
well spent. The coffee is strong enough to wake the dead, and
the cakes are some of the best and stickiest in town. They also
have a second location on the ground floor of Hotel Slon, and
another in Hala 12 in BTC. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00, Sun 10:00
- 20:00. BTC Hala 12 open 08:00-22:00, Sun 10:00-20:00.
(€2.80-4.50). PTJAUGBSW
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Bars
In Ljubljana there’s a bar for everyone’s taste. While we’ve
decided to give Pubs and Wine Bars their own categories,
you’ll find pretty much every other kind of bar in town listed
here - from dive bars and hipster hangouts to some truly
classy affairs, and everything in between. Note that as in
most European cities there is a fine line between a café
and bar, with plenty of establishments easily fitting into
either category, which means that most of the places here
open early and serve coffee, and you can also get a beer
or spirits at most cafés.
Bi-Ko-Fe C-4, Židovska Steza 2, tel. (+386) 14 25 93 93,
bikofe@gmail.com, www.bikofe.com. Situated on a sloping
cobbled lane in Ljubljana’s old town, BiKoFe is something of
a Mecca for hipsters, students, artists, designers, musicians
and the like. The winner of an award for design, the interior was
entirely renovated using recycled and refurbished furniture
and materials, and we can honestly say that it’s one of the
cosiest places to relax with a drink (or a coffee) in the city.
Live DJs keep the place bumping on Wednesday, Friday and
Saturday nights, and from time to time musical acts (some
quite well-known) perform cover-free shows for the cool crowd.
They also now offer light snacks, including some of the best
sandwiches in LJ, which are made daily by a local Japanese
woman. QOpen 07:00 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 01:00.
Holidays 18:00-01:00. PJA6UBXSW
Klub Daktari Krekov Trg 7, tel. +386 (0)41 919 908,
daktari.klub@gmail.com, www.daktari.si. Sharing its name
with the Swahili word for doctor, we’re not sure if there’s a connection,
but the place always cures us of any bad mood we’re
in. Located next to several other bars near the entrance to the
funicular railway, Daktari only recently reopened after more than
a year of renovations - a labour of love from the sociable owners,
who are usually on hand chatting with customers. The wait was
well worth it, as the bar exudes an old-time ambience and charm
that is a rarity these days: restored antique furniture, shelves full
of books, a player piano in the corner and a stage that is occasionally
used for live music sets, jam sessions, theatre, cabaret and
an eclectic mix of other cultural events. QOpen 07:00 - 01:00,
Sun 09:00 - 23:00. PJAEBX
Green Moon E-3, Poljanska 3, green.moon.lj@gmail.
com. The first and only Mayan-themed cocktail bar in
Ljubljana, no expense was spared in getting the details
right and turning what was formerly a basement dive bar
into a fun place to come drink, dance and party. Most of
the four dozen or so cocktails on the menu contain Agwa, a
centuries old Bolivian liqueur made from coca leaves - yes,
those coca leaves - and can be ordered in 1L and 1.5L
pitchers for those who are especially thirsty. Definitely try
one of the Slovenia-inspired house speciality drinks like the
Soča or Patria (and if you’re not from Slovenia google ‘jansa
patria’ to see why the latter is a brilliant name). QOpen
07:00 - 01:00, Fri 07:00 - 02:00, Sat 17:00 - 02:00, Sun
17:00 - 01:00. PJABS
Opera Bar C-3, Cankarjeva 12, tel. +386 (0)1 421
03 90, terra.australis.opera@siol.net, www.opera-bar.
com. A bright, large, colourful space popular with many of the
city’s more well-heeled residents, including those who like to
attend the opera house across the street, Opera Bar is your
classic café-bar. It brims with good-looking types drinking
coffee during the day and something a little stronger later
on. The Australian-Slovenian ownwership explains the huge
Aborigine-style painted ceiling and walls. QOpen , Mon, Tue,
Wed 07:00 - 00:30, Thu, Fri, Sat 07:00 - 02:00, Sun 10:00 -
18:00. PJHAEGBXS
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
nightLiFe
Pri Zelenem Zajcu D-5, Rožna 3, www.prizelenemzajcu.si.
This is a good place to head to if you want to find a
small non-pretentious bar where the locals are friendly. Slowly
rotating disco lights and trance type music give the Rabbit a
bohemian feel and you can either head into the green gloom
or grab a drink and perch yourself at one of the couple of
outdoor tables. Recommend for students or those who once
were students and want to feel like one again, even if only
for an evening, or for those who’ve never drunk absinthe and
would like to give it a go. QOpen 09:00 - 00:00, Thu 09:00
- 01:30, Fri 09:00 - 02:00, Sat 17:00 - 01:00, Sun 17:00 -
00:00. JA6EGBXW
Pr’ Skelet D-4, Ključavničarska 5, tel. (+386) 1 252 77
99, info@prskelet.com, www.prskelet.com. Look for the
skeleton hanging in a cage on the corner of the street, dip up
the alley and down the skeleton-riddled staircase, over the
skeleton lying under the glass floor and enter what may well
be the strangest cocktail bar of them all. As sharp-witted
readers may have already guessed, the theme here is a
skeletal one. They’re everywhere - some still wearing their
clothes, and even a dominatrix skeleton complete with a whip
and naughty little skeleton. Not content with this, expect to
find a bony handle on your cup should you order a coffee.
QOpen 10:00 - 03:00. J6GBX
BESt Of 2012
Žmauc B-4, Rimska 21, tel. (+386) 12 51 03 24. Ask any
tuned-in local to make a list of their favourite bars and they’re
almost certain to put this place on the list. Covered in quality
graffiti outside and always featuring a huddle of interestinglooking
individuals smoking suspiciously large cigarettes by the
entrance, the exterior is but a mild prelude to what’s inside. A
smallish L-shaped bar is packed day and night with more strange
characters amidst an interior design scheme straight from the
pages of a Manga comic. Excellent for coffee or something a
little stronger. Highly recommended. QOpen 07:30 - 01:00, Sat
10:00 - 01:00, Sun 18:00 - 01:00. PJA6GB
Pubs
BESt Of 2012
Parlament Pub C-3, Šubičeva 1, tel. (+386) 1 251 32
43. Knowing neither whether it’s a café or a bar, this peculiar
oddity with its books on the shelves, shady characters and
(you’ve guessed it) students is nonetheless a popular stop
for the heavy drinking younger crowd. Known for cheap beer
and cocktails (with 3 of the latter had for the price of 2), and
lively international parties almost every night, it’s a great
place to both start or end an evening out. The entrance and
terrace are at the back side of the building on Plečnikov Trg.
QOpen 06:00 - 04:00, Sat 08:00 - 04:00, Sun 16:00 - 24:00.
PJA6UEGBXW
October - November 2012
33

34 nightLiFe
New in Irish Pub
Irish & British
cuisine
Patrick’s Irish Pub D-3, Prečna 6, tel. (+386) 1230
17 68, info@irishpub-ljubljana.si, www.irishpub-ljubljana.
si. Ljubljana’s quintessential Irish pub is popular with locals,
expats and tourists alike, and over the years we’ve personally
spent many a night entertaining visitors, watching sports on
the big screen and generally drinking too much here. They’ve
got (arguably) the largest selection of beer in town, with some
90 varieties to choose from, and have recently reintroduced a
menu of fine Irish and British cuisine, including breakfast and
brunch. Every second Thursday there’s also a free concert of
live Irish music. Find it down a small cobbled alleyway just off
Trubarjeva Ulica. QOpen 16:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 01:00,
Sun 16:00 - 24:00. PTJA6EGSW
Clubs
Cirkus B-4, Trg Mladinskih Delovnih Brigad 7, tel. +386
(0)51 631 631/+386 (0)41 777 747, info@cirkusklub.
si, www.cirkusklub.si. Opened at the end of 2011 on the
premises of the former arthouse cinema Kinoklub Vič, Cirkus
has quickly become on the of the more popular clubs in Ljubljana
- with lots of themed nights, live DJs and photo albums posted
to their Facebook page the morning after parties. Located just
at the edge of the city centre (opposite the old tobacco factory),
it’s easy walking distance from most central hotels and
hostels, and usually attracts a youthful student crowd. QOpen
20:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Sun. Admission is usually free
before 23:00 and €5 after. Special events and performances
can increase the price though. PJAG
BESt Of 2012
Klub K4 B-2, Kersnikova 4, tel. (+386) 1438 02 61,
info@klubk4.org, www.klubk4.org. If you’re staying in a
hotel in this part of town and your bed starts bouncing across
the room in the middle of the night, the chances are the
culprit can be found inside Klub K4. A very student-oriented
club indeed, it’s hot and sweaty and the DJs play some of
the weirdest, hardest stuff in the country. Brilliant stuff. Klub
K4 also offers Roza (Pink) Party nights for the gay community.
QOpen 20:00 - 04:00, Thu 20:00 - 05:00, Fri, Sat 20:00 -
06:00. PJAG
KMŠ A-3, Tržaška 2, tel. (+386) 1425 74 80, info@klubkms.si,
www.klubkms.si. If you’re young and a student (or
at least look like one), here’s a great place to have some fun
with the rest of Ljubljana’s dynamic youth. Numerous concerts
and DJ nights are programmed for the weekends and the occasional
weekday. Drink to your heart’s content as the booze
is by far the cheapest in town. QOpen 08:00 - 05:00, Sat
21:00 - 05:00. Closed Sun. Closed June-August. Admission
€1.50. PJA6EGW
Lux Club C/D-3, Nazorjeva 6, tel. +386 (0)51 21 00
00, info@luxclub.si, www.luxclub.si. Lux is one of the only
proper clubs located directly in the city centre, and you’re
almost guaranteed to find a party raging until the wee hours
most nights of the week. Live DJs, theme nights and concerts
from some of the region’s biggest stars are frequently
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
nightLiFe
October - November 2012
35

36 nightLiFe
Entertaintment
Rollbar-Karting BTC M-2, Šmartinska 152 (BTC
Hala 18), tel. +386 (0)1 585 25 70/+386 (0)51
603 333, info@indoor-karting.com, www.indoorkarting.com.
Another reason to visit the huge BTC
complex is this extraordinary place. Taking the gimmick
of the race-car-theme-drinking-hole to its logical conclusion,
this subterranean boozer not only comes complete
with enough racing paraphernalia to start your very own
F1 museum, it’s actually got a go-kart racing circuit. There
are no drink-driving laws here, just a bunch of electric gocarts
and a hangar-size space to wiggle them through.
Not quite as tame as it sounds, these go-carts when
running on full power have a top speed of 120km/h,
restricted for obvious reasons here to a more sensible
albeit still stupidly fast 65km/h. QOpen 07:30 - 23:00,
Fri 07:30 - 24:00, Sat 08:00 - 24:00, Sun 08:00 - 22:00.
AUEGBXW
scheduled. A full assortment of drinks and colourful cocktails
are available, but for locals it’s perhaps even more popular to
order vodka, whisky or other spirits by the bottle. The club’s
new inColour atmosphere is sure to liven the mood of any
party for an unforgettable night. Q Open Mon-Wed 22:00-
02:00, Thur-Sat 22:00-05:00. Closed Sun. PJAX
Nebotičnik C-3, Štefanova 1, tel. +386 (0)5 907 03 95,
info@neboticnik.si, www.neboticnik.si. There’s no better
place in the city to enjoy a cocktail (or a beer or a cigar for that
matter) than the bar and lounge at the top of the Nebotičnik
building. The 11th floor has been renovated in line with the
original design from back in 1933, meaning dark and atmospheric
with lots of wood, stone and ample couches. While the
12th floor has a more modern feel to it, with white leather
chairs and an open terrace offering unparalleled views of the
city and beyond. Q Open Sun-Wed 09:00-01:00, Thur-Sat
09:00-03:00. PJA
Pr’ Skelet Disco Bar C-3, Kongresni Trg 3. If you’re
enjoying the atmosphere and 2-for-1 cocktails at the popular
skeleton-themed bar Pr’ Skelet in the old town, but could use
some more space to dance, head across the river to the establishment’s
recently opened sister club. Good music, good
drinks and great times are found in the vast subterranean
space located on - or rather beneath - Zvezda Park. QOpen
22:30 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Sun. PJAE
Top Six Klub A-3, Tomšičeva 2, tel. +386 (0)40 66
77 22, info@klubtop.si, www.topsixclub.si. Located
six floors above Ljubljana’s main thoroughfare (hence the
name), outside it offers some of the best views in the city,
while on the inside the contemporary interior design provides
an exclusive ambience that can’t be found elsewhere. There
is a full slate of parties throughout the week, and some of
the most sought after VIP sections in the city. Q Club open
Wed-Sat 23:00-05:00 and by prior arrangement. Lounge open
Mon-Sat 08:00-23:00. Admission: Free before 24:00 and €6
after. PJAEGBKW
Wine Bars
Viticulture in Slovenia has been refined over the centuries
in the country’s three wine growing regions producing a
vast selection of excellent quality wines, predicate wines
and sparkling wines. You can encounter all pleasures
at any of the traditional gostilnas or wine cellars found
in almost every street in Ljubljana. To make your choice
easier try wines such as Teran, Rumeni Muskat, Malvazija
and Rebula from the coastal region. Cviček, a Slovene
wine with a light taste and low alcohol is a specialty of the
Posavje Region along with wines such as Renski Rizling,
Traminec, Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Ranina.
BESt Of 2012
Dvorni Bar B-3, Dvorni Trg 2, tel. (+386) 12 51 12
57, info@dvornibar.net, www.dvornibar.net. This large
L-shaped adventure is a pleasant café during the day and
the city’s trendiest wine bar by night. There’s a swanky
jazzy area at one end for more wine-oriented patrons, while
the other side is a little more geared towards the restaurant
crowd. With upwards of 100 varieties of wine in stock it’s a
great place to sample local vintages if you don’t have time
to trek out to one of Slovenia’s wine growing regions, and
organised tastings are held every second Wednesday from
20:00-22:00. QOpen 08:00 - 01:00, Sun 09:00 - 24:00.
(€4.50-15). PTJHA6UEGBKXSW
eVino Bar M-2, Šmartinska 53, tel. (+386) 1 401
8008/(+386) 40 384 664, bar@evino.si, www.evino.si.
Founded as a web-only venture back in 2005, eVino has since
become one of the largest wine distributors in Slovenia, and
now has its own wine bar where customers can sample the
goods in a proper atmosphere before buying. In addition to the
vast selection of wine - currently from nearly 100 producers
representing over a dozen countries - they also offer a limited
selection of premium spirits, some gourmet oils and vinegars,
cigars and Antica coffee - a boutique brand widely considered
to be one of the best in the world. They have wine tastings
most Thursday nights, and can also arrange private events
on request. QOpen 09:00 - 23:00, Fri 09:00 - 24:00, Sat
10:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun. PALBS
Casinos
The automated casino, or gaming saloon, has arrived in
a big way - no more croupiers saying rien ne va plus, but
no more strict dress code either, though you still won’t get
in wearing jogging clothes. You’ll need to be 18 and carry
ID to enter.
Casino Lev B-2, Vošnjakova 1 (Hotel Lev), tel. (+386)1
430 42 23, info@casinolev.si, www.casinolev.com.
Slot machines, gaming tables and some of the best-looking
waitresses on the planet in the basement of the hotel of
the same name. QOpen 00:00 - 24:00. No admission fee.
POJHAULEG
Adult Entertainment
BESt Of 2012
Hard Core Club G-3, Dolgi Most 4, tel. (+386)
41 71 66 12, info@hardcoreclub.si, www.hardcoreclub.si.
With a name like that you can’t help but
smile and get in a taxi and head here. The concept is
simple: outstanding erotic entertainment provided by
prefessionals in a safe environment for groups of lads
of all ages and backgrounds. Nobody pesters you to buy
them extortionate ‘lady drinks’, there is always something
worth watching on stage, and entrance is free. Drinks
are reasonably priced - even the erotic ones - and the
girls who perform here are on the whole of a far higher
phwoar category then elsewhere. QOpen 17:00 - 05:00,
Fri 17:00 - 07:00, Sat 21:00 - 05:00. Closed Sun.
PJAG
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
what to see
The streets of Ljubljana’s old town wi ll be packed with wine tasters on 3 November 2012, photo by Aleš Fevžer courtesy of
the Ljubljana Wine Route
Ljubljana Castle is arguably the main attraction for visitors
to the city, but all that lies beneath it from the Old Town
to Ljubljana’s multitude of museums and galleries are
more than worthy of further investigation. The extraordinary
combination of treats, from the architecture of Jože
Plečnik’s to the historic atmosphere of the Old Town to the
occasional blast-to-the-past burst of retro-Yugoslav city
planning all work together in harmony to create the most
unique of cities.
Bridges
Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) D-3. Perhaps Ljubljana’s
most characteristic structure(s), the triple bridge is a curious
merger of a 19th century road bridge (itself replacing a
medieval wooden bridge), with two 1930s pedestrian bridges
designed by Plečnik, who took the opportunity to do up the
whole ensemble with lamps and stone balustrades.
Buildings
Nebotičnik (Skyscraper) C-3, Štefanova 1. Believe it
or not, this lovely little skyscraper was, at 70 metres, one
of the highest buildings in Europe when it was built in 1933.
The rooftop café and lounge has also finally reopened after
being shuttered for nearly a decade - providing some of the
best views in the city.
Cemeteries
Žale Cemetery (Pokopališče Žale) L/M-2, Med
Hmeljniki 2, tel. (+386) 1420 17 00, info@zale.si, www.
zale.si. Built on the site of a much earlier cemetery attached to
the neighbouring (and still standing) Holy Cross Church, what’s
arguably Plečnik’s Ljubljana masterpiece was completed in
1940. The grand arched entrance complete with stark white
colonnades supposedly represents the gateway between
the lands of the living and the dead. Between them and the
cemetery itself are a series of peculiar buildings, chapels and
monuments including the Žale funeral home. Architectural
styles abound, reflecting Plečnik’s vision of equality among
religions. The cemetery itself, once you get there, is a pleasure
to behold and is worthy of a good hour’s stroll. The final resting
place of many Slovenian greats including Plečnik himself, also
find a small area given over to the Jewish population of the city.
QOpen 07:00 - 19:00. April-September 07:00-21:00.
Churches
As you may have already noticed, the old town boasts a
number of famous churches dating far back to the Baroque
period under the influence of Venetian architecture.
Aside from during mass, most of the main churches are
open to the public from 15:00-18:00.
Cathedral (Stolnica Sv. Nikolaja) D-3, Dolničarjeva
1, tel. (+386) 1234 26 70, lj-stolnica@rkc.si, lj-stolnica.
rkc.si. With its classic twin towers and trademark single,
weather-worn green dome, the city’s cathedral, more properly
known as St Nicholas’ Church, encapsulates everything that
is Ljubljana. Small and interesting, but not too exciting at first
glance, a longer look at its history and finer details reveals its
hidden charm and beauty. Built on the site of a much earlier
church, the cathedral’s main structure and appearance dates
from the first half of the 18th century. Inside the Baroque
masterpiece’s pink shell is a cavalcade of classic creams
and golds, littered with extraordinarily detailed frescoes and
possessing that calming feeling that only a great church can
bring. Of particular interest are the ornate choir stalls and
Robba’s maginficent angels on the main altar. Don’t forget to
check out the astonishing pair of bronze doors on the western
and southern sides. Dating from 1996 and commissioned
to celebrate John Paul II’s visit to the Cathedral, the former
celebrates 1250 years of Slovenian Christianity, and the latter,
depicting six cardinals in a row with the figure of Christ lying
at the front, the history of the diocese of the city.
October - November 2012
37

38 what to see
Orthodox Church (Pravoslavna Cerkev) B-2,
Prešernova, tel. (+386) 1252 40 02. Built alongside the
southwestern perimeter of Tivoli Park in 1936 to serve the
city’s Serbian community, this wholly unremarkable church
complete with all the usual ostentatious details, is worth
visiting during services, daily at 10:00.
Monuments
Old Ljubljana is the city’s historical part of town and practically
a monument in itself. Fountains, the town hall, some
restaurants and local designer shops are located in old
buildings that are very well preserved. The Triple Bridge
“Tromostovje” is one of Ljubljana’s trademarks designed
by Joze Plecnik. “Zmajski most “ or the Dragon Bridge is
another main bridge in Ljubljana, guarded by four detailed
dragon statues, which became the symbol of the city. But
the most prominent of all, the medieval Ljubljana Castle was
built on a prehistoric site on top of a hill, which dominates
the cityscape. You can go up by a funicular railway for €2-3.
France Prešeren D-3, Pršernov trg. Slovenia’s national
poet France Prešeren (1800-1849) stands in the square
named in his honour at the foot of the Triple Bridge. As well
as offering an interesting visual treat, the monument also
serves as a focal point for people meeting in the city. Erected
in 1905, the large monolith is the work of the architect Maks
Fabiani and sculptor Ivan Zajc and features the Muse of
poetry holding a small laurel of bay leaves over his head as
well as extracts from his writing around the base.
Museums & Galleries
While Ljubljana’s museums and galleries are likely not
the top reason for most visitors coming to the city,
the breadth and scope of what’s on offer is more than
enough to keep you busy for days on end.
City Museum (Mestni Muzej Ljubljana) C-4, Gosposka
15, tel. (+386) 1241 25 00, info@mestnimuzej.
si, www.mestnimuzej.si. A magnificent museum run
by a team of historians who know how to show people
a good time, showcasing Ljubljana in all its good and bad
colours throughout history. Featuring both permanent and
temporary exhibitions, this is the best place in town for a
crash-course in city history. Find scale models of unfulfilled
Plečnik creations, elaborate costumes, old photographs and
much more besides. Check out the fabulous little website
for upcoming exhibitions. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00
- 21:00. Closed Mon. Admission €4/2,50. English-language
guided tours last Sun at 11:00.
Contemporary History Museum (Muzej Novejše
Zgodovine) B-1, Celovška 23, tel. (+386) 13 00 96
10, uprava@muzej-nz.si, www.muzej-nz.si. If you needed
a reason to visit Tivoli Park, it’s here. This fascinating museum
inside a wonderful 18th-century mansion presents the
history of Slovenia from the period around the start of WWI
until independence in 1991. Using a combination of wellpresented
exhibits including old photographs, clothing and
household items the museum charts the often wobbly path
of the nation through and between the two world wars and
the difficult and truly fascinating post-war communist years.
The building itself is worth seeing alone, being a marvellous
combination of original Baroque and the interesting modernist
work of the Slovenian architect Jurij Kobe, dating from
1991. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. Open Tues - Sun
10:00-18:00. Closed Mon. Admission €3.50 for adults, €2.50
for children, €8 family.
BESt Of 2012
House of Experiments (Hiša Eksperimentov) E-3,
Trubarjeva 39, tel. (+386) 13 00 68 88, info@h-e.si,
www.h-e.si. Based on similar wacky, fun and educational
places around the globe, the extraordinary House of Experiments
features three rooms of purpose-built experiments for
the ultimate hands-on experience. Visitors are free to wander
around as they wish, engaging with anything that takes their
fancy, whether it’s a giant bubble maker, electronic insects,
dancing liquid or a machine that plays music according to your
weight. They also provide what they call Adventures, namely
small performances that aim to show different scientific
principles, with enticing names like the Centre of Gravitology,
Eggology etc. Q Open to the public Sat & Sun 11:00-19:00.
Groups can book special visits outside these days too.
International Centre of Graphic Arts (Mednarodni
Grafični Likovni Center) A-2, Pod Turnom 3,
tel. (+386) 1241 38 00, lili.sturm@mglc-lj.si, www.
mglc-lj.si. Located inside the gorgeous 17th-century Tivoli
Mansion, this must-see attraction for anyone with even a
passing interesting in the visual arts contains a staggering
4 000 prints and over 4000 artist’s books and other printed
ephemera, mostly from the second half of the 20th century
onwards and including the work of many of the great masters
of European graphic arts. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
Admission €3.40/1.70. During the Biennial €6/3.
Museum of Architecture and Design (Muzej za
Arhitekturo in Oblikovanje) N-3, Pot na Fužine 2,
tel. +386 (0)1 548 42 70, mao@mao.si, www.mao.
si. Located in Fužine Castle in the far east of the city, the
Museum of Architecture and Design ( or MAO for short)
is the main Slovenian institution operating in the fields of
architecture, urban planning, industrial and graphic design
and photography. MAO collects and archives work from
these areas, which can then be used for both educational
purposes and public exhibition, and acts as a museum
and architectural and design center, whose mission is to
facilitate the exchange of ideas and knowledge and the
establishment of urban, architectural and design dialogue.
Originally founded in 1972 as a private institution, in 2010
it came under the management of the Government of the
Republic of Slovenia. To reach Fužine Castle from the city
centre, take buses 11, 20 or 25. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon. Admission €3 for adults, €1.50 for students/
children, €5 for families.
Museum of Contemporary Art (Muzej Sodobne
Umetnosti Metelkova) F-2, Maistrova 3, info@mglj.si,
www.mg-lj.si. Along with the Slovene Ethnographic
Museum and a branch of the National Museum, the recently
opened Museum of Contemporary Art rounds out Ljubljana’s
newly christened Museum Quarter located between Metelkova
and Tabor in the centre of the city. Nearly two years
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Top 5 sights (other than the castle)
Franciscan Church
( Fr a n č i š k a n s k i
Samostan) D - 3 ,
Prešernov Trg 4, tel.
(+386) 1242 93 00.
Built in an instantly recognisable,
mildly swirly Baroque
fashion, Ljubljana’s
mid-16th-century Franciscan
Church dominates
Prešernov Trg like a big
pink birthday cake. Part
of a larger complex with
an additional Franciscan
monastery, if you’re lucky
enough to find the doors
unlocked expect a few
D.Silpa
treats inside including
Robba’s 18th-century altar, some charming frescoes dating
from 100 years or so later and a chapel notable for containing
a cross designed by none other than Jože Plečnik. For
those who don’t appreciate the finer points of ecclesiastic
architecture, the front steps do at least provide a nice place
to sit and watch the world go by on a gloriously sunny day.
QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
Mestni Trg (Town
Square) D-3/4. The
centre of medieval Ljubljana,
the town’s main square
was damaged in the 1511
earthquake and subsequently
rebuilt in Baroque
style. The square houses
the Town Hall, City Art Museum,
the decorated 16th
century Lichtenberg house
and the Souvan house
with its Empire façade.
P r e š e r n o v Tr g
(Prešeren Square)
D-3.Formally a meeting
place for several
roads in front of one of
the old entrance gates
to the city, and a public
square since Ljubljana’s
original defensive walls
were torn down in the
middle of the 19th century,
this is one of the
city’s most important
landmarks. Named after
Slovenia’s national
poet France Prešeren
(German, Franz Prescheren,
1800-1849),
it’s both a popular meeting place (notably under the large
statue of the man after whom the square is named) and a
site for concerts and events during the summer. The charming
little public space is ringed by a number of interesting
sights including the magnificent Art Nouveau façade of
the Urbanc House, an extraordinary piece of early 20thcentury
flamboyance and site of the soon to be reopened
Centromerkur department store.
what to see
Tivoli Park A/B-2.
Tivoli is where the people
of Ljubljana who
don’t leave the city
spend the weekend.
Laid out in 1813 as
a place for the general
health and recreation
of the city’s
population, at some
five square kilometres,
Ljubljana’s gargantuan
bucolic lung - literally
Mansion-LTB-archive
two streets west of
the city centre - is so
packed with good things to see and do that it’s almost worth
visiting the Slovenian capital just to come here. Set amidst
rolling hills, Tivoli Park is a pleasant mixture of lawns (picnics
encouraged: something of a shock in this part of the world),
pastures, wooded areas and fun adventure playgrounds for
the kids (who will love the mini-golf best of all). The best
way to enjoy the park is by bike, and bicycles are available
for rent from various points throughout the park during the
summer. You will need to leave ID as a guarantee you will
bring the bike back.
As well as its reputation as the top nature spot in the area,
Tivoli Park also houses a number of cultural sights including
the International Centre of Graphic Arts in the glorious
17th century Tivolski Grad (Tivoli Mansion), the Museum
of Modern History and, in the park’s far southwestern
reaches, in an area designated as a nature reserve, the
city’s half-decent zoo. Also look out for the monument to
Primoz Trubar at the entrance to the park. Truboz was an
early force in Slovene literature and the creation of a Slovene
national identity.
Z m a j s k i M o s t
(Dragon Bridge)
E-3, Resljeva Cesta.
Since i t opened in
1901, Zmajski Most
has been locked in
a fierce competition
with the castle and
the conspicuously pink
Franciscan Church for
the title of Most Photographed
Sight in
Ljubljana. At any given
moment during daylight
hours (and only
slightly less frequently
at night) there is sure
to be at least a person
or two clicking away at one of the four large dragons guarding
either side of the bridge or the smaller griffins that adorn
the bottom of its eight lamp posts. Of course we’re no
exception, as we still remember the fog shrouded photo we
snapped on our first trip to the city way back in the forgotten
days of analogue film. More recently some amateur artiste
apparently felt that the mythical beasts were lacking a
certain je ne sais quoi and took it upon themself to add a
smattering of red paint to their mouths and claws. The jury
is still out on whether or not this is an improvement but it
does amuse us whenever we walk past.
October - November 2012
39

40 what to see
Ljubljana Castle
Ljubljana Castle (Ljubljanski Grad) D-4, Grajska
Planota 1, tel. +386 (0)1 306 42 93, info-center@
ljubljanskigrad.si, www.ljubljanskigrad.si. Perched
on top of Castle Hill (Grajska planota) and dominating the
city skyline to the south, Ljubljana’s magnificent castle
stands on the site of several former defensive buildings in
a hilly area of land stretching away to the south of the old
town. The current ensemble of buildings originates from
necessary 16th-century reconstruction work following
the earthquake of 1511, with several later additions. Not
unlike Kraków’s Wawel Castle in Poland, Ljubljana Castle
has served as both a royal residence and a military barracks
over the centuries.
The current main points of interest for the visitor are
the Outlook Tower (Razgledni Stolp), built in the 19th
century and raised a further 1.2m by the government in
1982. The tower’s Virtual Castle screens a 12-minute film
translated in English, German, Italian, Spanish, French,
Russian, Croatian and Slovene showing an interesting
and informative history of the castle.
On the same floor find a small door that takes you to
the top of the tower up some 100 red cast-iron steps,
each individually decorated with an image of the tower
and the city’s dragon. A door at the top leads to a small
viewing platform (not for the faint hearted) with wonderful
views of the city.
Underneath the tower and located down a small flight of
stairs tucked away through a doorway in the corner of the
courtyard is the diminutive St George’s Chapel (Kapela sv
Jurija). The Chapel is one of the oldest parts of the Castle.
By the order of Cesar’s document from 1489 it was dedicated
to St. George, the patron saint of Ljubljana. It was
renovated in Baroque style and in 1747 decorated with
the coats-of-arms of over sixty rulers, including Herman
and Ulrich of Celje, Henrik of Gorizia County, and Krištof
Rauber, a bishop of Ljubljana.
A new and beautifully presented permanent Exhibition on
Slovene History is now also open for visitors - see more
info under Museums & Galleries.
The castle also has a small art gallery featuring temporary
exhibitions, a café, restaurant and souvenir shop. It’s
also a popular place for local weddings, and during the
summer puts on concerts and, in July, hosts a popular
outdoor cinema. To reach it, several small paths lead
up from the old town, or take the funicular next to the
Puppet Theatre and open market. Q October-March
10:00-21:00, April-September 09:00-23:00.
Full combined ticket €5-8, half combined ticket €3-6,
Guided tour €6-10. Special discounts for families.
of renovations has transformed the former administrative
building into the city’s most dynamic arts space, with rooms
of all shapes and sizes situated around a vaulting central
atrium. The museum is focussed on works from the 1960s
to the present day, and boasts a permanent collection devoted
to Eastern Europe’s postwar avant garde movement,
as well as a selection of works from its sister institution, the
Museum of Modern Art. Definitely a must-see for art fans.
QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. Admission €5 adults,
€2.50 students/pensioners, €3.50 groups.
Museum of Modern Art (Moderna Galerija) B-3,
Tomšičeva 14, tel. (+386) 12 41 68 00, info@mg-lj.si,
www.mg-lj.si. Following a lengthy renovation, the doors
of Edvard Ravnikar’s Plečnik-inspired building have finally
reopened to the public. Continuing on from where the National
Gallery stops, the city’s excellent Museum of Modern
Art houses a fine collection of Slovenian and international
20th-century art. Q Open Tues-Sun 10:00-18:00. Closed
Mon and holidays. Admission €5 for adults, €2.50 for students/pensioners.
No admission fee first Sunday of every
month.
National Gallery (Narodna Galerija) B/C-2,
Prešernova 24, tel. +386 (0)1 241 54 18, info@ng-slo.
si, www.ng-slo.si. Inside Czech architect František Edmund
Škabrout’s fabulous late 19th-century neo-Renaissance masterpiece
with an additional modern wing thrown on for good
measure, this above-average gallery features the very best in
Slovenian art from the 13th century up to the first half of the
20th century, including paintings by such notable artists as
Ivan Grohar (1867-1911), Richard Jakopič (1869-1943) and
Ivana Kobilca (1861-1926). The other permanent exhibition
in the building focuses on European painting, and includes
some really fine examples of the Renaissance-period Italian
painting through to the more modernist work of the early 20th
century. The gallery also contains a small gift shop, which has
several good books and postcards. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00.
Closed Mon. Admission €3.5-7.
National Museum of Slovenia (Narodni Muzej) B-3,
Prešernova 20, tel. (+386) 12 41 44 00, info@nms.si,
www.nms.si. Found lurking inside another of the city’s fine,
late 19th-century neo-Renaissance buildings complete with
fine painted ceilings and elaborate sculptures on the stairs,
this is the oldest museum in country, founded way back in
1821. Permanent displays include an intriguing collection
dedicated to the Slovenians and the Slovenian language
alongside the usual bits and pieces of interest dug out of
the ground, plus a large ensemble of almost 200 examples
of carved stonework dating from Roman times excavated in
the city and surrounding regions. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu
10:00 - 20:00. Admission €4-8.5.
Natural History Museum (Prirodoslovni Muzej) B-3,
Prešernova 20, tel. (+386) 12 41 09 40, uprava@pms-lj.
si, www2.pms-lj.si. Attached to Ljubljana’s National Museum,
the Natural History Museum isn’t the best in the world by a
long way but it does offer an assortment of oddities to beat
the rainy blues away or to simply keep the children amused for
a while. Among the many peculiar displays of shells, rocks and
an almost complete set of mammoth bones, the human fish
is perhaps the museum’s strangest display. Known so for its
pinky human flesh appearance, the little proteus anguinus is
a blind amphibian found exclusively in a relatively small area
including parts of Slovenia, Italy, Croatia and Herzegovina. The
gift shop features a handful of fun things for the kids including
small build-your-own dinosaur kits. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu
10:00 - 20:00. Admission €2.5-3, combined admission with
National Museum of Slovenia €3-5.
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Slovene Ethnographic Museum (Etnografski
Muzej) F-2, Metelkova 2, tel. (+386) 1 300 87 00, etnomuz@etno-muzej.si,
www.etno-muzej.si. The Slovene
Ethnographic Museum (SEM) - a museum “about people,
for people”, prides itself as being the link between the
past and the present, between our own and other cultures,
between nature and civilisation. A central museum of ethnology,
a museum of dialogue, open, active and hospitable
with dedicated public services. The museum is located in
a new urban cultural centre of Ljubljana known as part of
former military barracks of the Metelkova area, which have
undergone complete restoration, and in the future will form
the centre of Ljubljana’s arts scene. Through two permanent
exhibitions, diverse annual temporary exhibitions and
other events - Slovene, European and non-European - SEM
presents and reports on the traditional culture of Slovenia
and other cultures of the world in creative and imaginative
ways. Find the entrance in the large square at the back of
the building. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon. Admission
€4.50/2.50 (adults/students). Free admission the last
Sunday of the month.
Squares
Trg Republike (Republic Square) B/C-3. The political
centre of modern Slovenia, this square houses the brutalist
1960 parliament building, two equally delicate office towers
and the Cankarjev Dom Cultural Centre. The western tower
is home to some half-dozen embassies, while the east tower
is the headquarters of Slovenia’s largest bank, NLB. A small
park to the west of the car park contains some large sculptures
celebrating heroes of Slovenia’s past and are worth
taking a peak at.
Tours
The Tourist Information Centre should be your first stop
if you’re interested in any kind of city tour. They offer
a variety of scheduled tours for individuals, and can
arrange even more for groups with a bit of advanced notice.
Prices and itineraries are also clearly listed on their
site, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting. Almost
every hotel in the city offers guided tours of one sort or
another as well. Some are good, others just a way of
making money. You should be able to spot the scams
without too much difficulty.
Slovenia Explorer K-2, Celovška 69c, tel. +386 (0)40
555 656, info@slovenia-explorer.com, www.sloveniaexplorer.com.
Slovenia Explorer travel agency is committed
to exploring Slovenia in detail - meaning they won’t just
show you the major sights, but also the lesser known, yet
equally beautiful, natural and cultural wonders of the country.
They offer scheduled and custom-made day trips and
multi-day tours throughout Slovenia, organise adventures
and events, offer tourist information and arrange bookings
(flight tickets, accommodation, adrenaline activities, as well
as sailboat, yacht and camper van rental).
Turag4all Tel. (+386) 30 641 440, info@premiki.com,
www.premiki.com. The first travel agency in Slovenia
that is specialised in accessible tourism for people with
special needs, Turag4All (or the Tourist Agency for All) was
organised by the Slovenian Association for Mental Health in
cooperation with both the National Tourist Association and
the Institute for Counselling, Promotion and Development of
Accessible Tourism. Its aim is to contribute to the development
of tourism for people with special needs by combining
supply and demand for disabled-friendly tourists and creating
a network of disabled-friendly tourist suppliers.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
what to see
Tourist Information
Ljubljana Tourist Information Centre
(Turistični Informacijski Center) D-3, Adamič-
Lundrovo Nabrežje 2, tel. (+386) 13 06 12 15, fax
(+386) 13 06 12 04, tic@visitljubljana.si, www.
visitljubljana.si. A small but extremely well equipped
resource with plenty of maps, brochures galore in English,
information about what’s on in the city and a range of
information on what to see and do in the region. They
also organise tours, can help with accommodation, and
should be one of your first ports of call when you arrive.
Their website is one of the best we’ve seen in Central
Europe and is well worth further investigation. Friendly, informative
staff too. Q Open daily Oct-May 08:00-19:00,
June-Sept 08:00-21:00. A second location in the main
train station is open Oct-May 10:00-19:00, June-Sept
08:00-22:00, Saturday 08:00-15:00. Closed Sun.
Slovenian Tourist Information Center (STIC)
C-3, Krekov Trg 10, tel. (+386) 1 306 45 75, fax
(+386) 1 306 45 80, stic@visitljubljana.si, www.
visitljubljana.si. Ljubljana’s central tourist office is a
bit larger and usually less crowded than the main branch
located a few hundred metres away opposite Prešeren
Square, and they also helpfully stock heaps of maps,
brochures and general information for the entire country.
Tickets for most events in and around town can be
purchased, and the staff will gladly give you a run down
of the various tours and excursions on offer. Bicycle
rentals are also available for only €5 per day, and are a
great way to see more of the city. Q Open October-May
08:00-19:00, Saturday 08:00-15:00, June-September
08:00-21:00. Closed Sunday.
Vineyards & Wineries
As would be expected from a country which borrows the
lyrics for its national anthem from a poem entitled The
Toast, winemaking and viticulture hold a special place in
the hearts and minds of most Slovenes. With hundreds
of individual vineyards - most of which are small to
medium-sized family run affairs - spread across several
different wine-growing regions, choosing where to visit
during a short stay can be a daunting task. We’ve tried
to include a wide range of options below, but as you can
see, our slight bias towards and geographic proximity
to the west of the country has left those regions
(especially Goriška Brda) more well-represented than
their counterparts in the east. But when it comes to
tasting wine and visiting vineyards, in Slovenia you can’t
really go wrong.
Around Ljubljana
Vineyard Cottage Tourism (Turizem v Zidanicah)
Novi Trg 10, Novo Mesto, tel. (+386) 7 393 1 520,
fax (+386) 7 393 1 539, kompas.nm@siol.net, www.
zidanice.si. Vineyard cottages are a unique feature in the
wine-growing region of Posavje in the southeast of the
country, with a higher density of vineyard cottages, wooden
wine storage rooms and wine cellars than anywhere else
in the world. All these structures stand on the edges of
vineyards in splendid locations that offer lovely views. The
vineyard cottages are fully fitted with modern equipment
and provide visitors with everything they need for a relaxing
holiday in the countryside. Stays can be arranged through
the Kompas travel agency in Novo Mesto.
October - November 2012
41

42 shopping
Department Stores
Midas C-2/3, Ajdovščina 3, tel. (+386) 13 00 46 00,
info@midas.si, www.midas.si. A trade house on four floors
of Midas offers global brands in the world of fashion such as:
Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Dior, Jimmy Choo, Moncler,
Paul Smith, Giorgio Armani, Diesel, Marc by Marc Jacobs,
Bluamrine and Givechy. Clothing, footwear, bags and other
fashion accessories to impress most fashion enthusiasts.
There’s also a selection of children’s fashion including items
from Gucci, Prada, D&G and Hugo Boss. QOpen 09:00 -
20:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Nama C-3, Tomšičeva 1, tel. +386 (0)1 425 83 00, info@
nama.si, www.nama.si. Set in the heart of the city centre,
just opposite the central post office, this modern department
store offers several floors of clothing for men and women, with
brands ranging from sporty to trendy to sophisticated. A large
selection of household items can be found on the fourth floor and
a supermarket stocked with an appetizing variety of ready meals,
salads, produce and other quick eats is in the basement, while
the ground floor is where you will find cosmetics and accessories.
QOpen 08:30 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun.
Fashion
Kipling C/D-3, Wolfova 1, tel. (+386) 12 51 10 10,
www.bags.si. The well-known brand Kipling has been offering
a range of trendy, practical and high quality bags, luggage
and travel accessories for over 25 years. The brand is recognised
internationally by its famous monkey trademark, and
can be found in two locations: in the centre on Wolfova Ulica
and in BTC. QOpen 09:30 - 19:00, Sat 09:30 - 14:00.
Malloni D-3, Mačkova 4, tel. +386 (0)40 721 702, malloni.ljubljana@gmail.com,
www.malloni.com. With roots
dating back to a small central Italian shoemaking workshop in
the 1950s, over the past few decades the Malloni Group has
greatly expanded and diversified its lines of women’s fashion,
but still remains a family-run business - now in the third generation.
The fashion house’s first Ljubljana boutique opened in the
summer of 2012, just steps away from most of the city’s major
sights. In addition to the main Malloni label, which focuses on
prêt-à-porter fashion, the shop will also feature the I-Malloni line
(for creative, trendy designs), Malloni Tricot (for knitwear), and
Ixos (for innovative footwear and accessories). QOpen 10:00
- 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. Summer opening time:
Mon-Fri 10:00-13:00, 16:00-20:00, Sun 10:00-17:00.
Mandarina Duck C/D-3, Wolfova 1, tel. (+386) 12 51
10 10, www.bags.si. Mandarina Duck is an innovative designer
brand that offers simple, unique and creative solutions
for people who are ambitious, curious, positive and always
up-to-date on the latest trends. The brand’s range includes
handbags, business bags, wallets and luggage.ve QOpen
09:30 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
Italian fashion at Malloni
Marina Rinaldi D-2, Miklošičeva 16, tel. (+386) 14
33 04 85, info@morris.si, www.morris.si. The inspiration
for Marina Rinaldi’s collection this season is the styles
of the 1920s and 30s - geometric lines, cuts that outline
the shape of the body and clothes that combine a variety
of materials. Marina Rinaldi is one of the top brands of the
Max Mara fashion house, and is ideal for the tall or plus-size
modern woman with a sophisticated yet casual sense of
style who wishes to display her femininity in a fashionable
but edgy and mysterious way. QOpen 09:00 - 19:30, Sat
09:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
MAX&Co D-3, Miklošičeva 1, tel. +386 (0)1 241 47
45, max.co@solgri.si, www.liliinroza.si. MAX&Co. is all
about style and glamour: a perfectly calibrated blend of
typically Italian quality and creativity. Sartorial tradition and
state-of-the-art technology is applied to fashion design, and
MAX&Co.’s collections are the fruit of a constantly evolving
attitude and the desire to experiment and innovate, which
constitutes the pioneering ethos of the brand. MAX&Co.
are distinguished by a fresh, contemporary international flair
and purposefully designed to be reinterpreted according to
one’s moods and whims. QOpen 09:00 - 19:30, Sat 09:00
- 13:00. Closed Sun.
Max Mara D-3, Miklošičeva 6, tel. (+386) 1 426 58 80,
info@morris.si, www.morris.si. When entering Max Mara,
words like ‘elegant’, ‘sophisticated’ and ‘classy’ inevitably
spring to mind. The shop positively glows with these qualities,
offering a diverse range of nicely presented, luxurious ladies’
attire. Staff are always nearby to assist if needed but keep
a polite distance, allowing you to browse without feeling any
pressure. A highlight is the subtle yet striking Sportmax range,
which presents high fashion at its highest while retaining an
innovative individualism. The new Autumn/Winter 2012/13
takes as its muse the style of the 1920s, specifically inspired
by Fritz Lang’s legendary film Metropolis, the works of Rainer
Werner Fassbinder and the Bauhaus movement. QOpen
09:00 - 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 13:00. Closed Sun.
Petit Bateau D-4, Stari Trg 30, tel. (+386) 5 993 4989,
petit-bateau@siol.net, www.liliinroza.si. Petit Bateau is
a century-old tradition based on the things that should be a
part of everyday life: Youthful playfulness, sincere happiness
and endless comfort. Since 1893 the brand has been an
indispensable companion for children and adults for whom
quality and comfort are important. QOpen 09:00 - 19:30,
Sat 09:00 - 14:00. Closed Sun.
Second Hand/Vintage
NEW
Moje Tvoje Mestni Trg 8, tel. +386 (0)31 738 438. A
unique concept shop that just opened in September 2012,
Moje Tvoje (or ‘mine is yours’) offers original clothing and
jewellery created by young Slovene designers, a selection
of reasonably priced second hand vintage clothing, and
just for good measure the place also doubles as gallery
space for locals artists, with exhibitions changing monthly.
Find it down a small passageway off Mestni Trg not far from
Town Hall. QOpen 10:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun
11:00 - 17:00.
Food & Drink
NEW
Pivoteka Za Popen’t Stari Trg 5, tel. +386 (0)1 256
59 16, zapopent@hotmail.com, www.zapopent.si. Just
opened in the summer of 2012, Za Popen’t may be hidden
away in a small courtyard off of Stari Trg, but it’s selection
of specialty beers is the largest in the country. At last count
some 150 different beers from around the world were weighing
down the shelves here, nearly all of which can be explained
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Shopping centres
BTC City M-2, Šmartinska 152, tel. (+386) 15 85
22 22, info@btc.si, en.btc-city.com. The biggest thing
of its kind in the country, the positively humungous BTC
features not only some 450 shops selling everything you
could possibly imagine, but also boasts restaurants galore,
bars, a post office, multiplex cinema, indoor go-cart racing,
a comedy theatre, billiards, volleyball courts, an enormous
water park, conference facilities and its very own business
district housing some of the best known local and international
companies. There’s free parking for more than 8,500
vehicles too, all just a couple of kilometres out of the centre
of the city in the general direction of Maribor. QOpen 09:00
- 20:00. Closed Sun.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
shopping
in detail PAGINA by the LJUBLJANA friendly and tr.indd knowledgable 1 owner or her staff. Citypark M-2, Šmartinska 152g, tel. (+386) 22/06/12 1 587 12.17
30
For those who don’t know much about beers (like us), don’t 50, info@citypark.si, www.citypark.si. Boasting over 120
worry - simply tell them what kind of flavours you like and
they will be able to find a beer for you to try! QOpen 11:00
stores of all shapes and sizes, Citypark is Slovenia’s largest
shopping centre, and the best place to find pretty much what-
- 20:00. Closed Sun.
ever you need while in Ljubljana. Besides the massive variety
of stores - such as XYZ, K&O, Big Bang, Desigual, Hervis,
Gifts & Souvenirs
Čokoladnica Cukrček D-3/4, Mestni Trg 11, tel. +386
H&M and an Interspar hypermarket - there is a terrific choice
of places to eat, from Burger King to Thai food to traditional
Slovenian. Unlike the city centre parking is never a problem,
(0)1 421 04 53, info@benedict.si, www.cukrcek.si. A and there’s even a large children’s play area to keep the kids
charming, family-run business with four shops in the city,
Čokoladnica Cukrček has been delighting adults and making
occupied. Find the Citypark page on Facebook to stay up to
date with new openings and events. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00,
children happily sick for a decade and a half. Among the many
fine examples of chocolate for sale include special Ljubljana
Sat 08:00 - 21:00, Sun 09:00 - 15:00.
Mercator Center Ljubljana I/J-1, Ljubljanske Brigade
dragons in souvenir wooden boxes, fruit covered in chocolate 33, tel. (+386) 15 13 99 52, info@mercator.si, www.
and even chocolate flavoured with salt. In addition to the main mercator.si. A huge, modern shopping centre with plenty
location on Mestni Trg, you can find Cukrček in the Nebotičnik of underground parking. Find all your favourite shops in here
passageway, opposite Hotel Union and in Mercator Centre
Šiška. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Sun 10:00 - 19:00.
plus several restaurants and even some banks. In the north of
the city, 15 minutes from the centre. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00,
Sun 09:00 - 15:00.
Sports & Recreation
Intersport C-3, Šubičeva 2, tel. (+386) 1242 77
57, intersport@mercator.si, www.intersport.si. Everything
you need from table tennis balls to skis. Sports
fashion too. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sun.
Marina Yachting C-4, Novi Trg 6, tel. (+386) 1 425
1107, marina.yachting@amis.net, www.liliinroza.si.
Everything, from sou’westers to sweaters, a yachtsman could
need, and a few things he might not. Marina is a shop for
sailors who actually go sailing; this is Slovenia after all, and
the whole country appears to own a boat. QOpen 09:00 -
19:30, Sat 09:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 14:00.
October - November 2012
43

44 business direCtory
Banks
Abanka C/D-2, Slovenska 50, tel. (+386) 1300 15
00.
Bank Of Slovenia C-3, Slovenska 35, tel. (+386)
1471 90 00.
Deželna Banka Slovenije D-2, Kolodvorska 9, tel.
(+386) 1472 72 30.
Hypo Group Alpe Adria K-1, Dunajska 117, tel. (+386)
1 580 40 00.
Nova Ljubljanska Banka B-3, Trg Republike 2, tel.
(+386) 1476 21 59.
Raiffeisen Bank C-3, Pogačarjev Trg 2, tel. (+386)
1234 98 18.
Skb B-2, Ajdovščina 4, tel. (+386) 1471 59 58.
Unicredit Banka Slovenija D-3, Wolfova 1, tel.
(+386) 1587 64 02.
Chambers of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia
(Gospodarska Zbornica Slovenije) L-2, Dimičeva
13, tel. (+386) 1589 80 00.
Consultants
IQbator J/K-2, Drenikova 33, tel. (+386) 41 690
666.
MM-konto J-1, Devova 5, tel. (+386) 1515 50 22.
Par H-3, Tbilisijska 128, tel. (+386) 1423 15 06.
Pro-Eco H-1, Vodovodna 99a, tel. (+386) 1565 45
67.
Tax-Fin-Lex K-2, Dunajska 20, tel. (+386) 1432 42 43.
Diplomatic Services
monolitmap_165_90_en.pdf 18.3.2009 0:47:20
Stoja Trade d.o.o. Dolenjska 244c, tel. (386) 1
2800 860.
Personal Shoppers
ISSIMO Personal Shopping Šlandrova 4b, tel.
+386 (0)5 901 53 77, info@issimo-group.com,
www.issimo-group.com. ISSIMO Personal Shopping
offers a wide range of services and advice from a
professional staff that includes fashion connoisseurs,
respected designers and a Fashion Week stylist. In addition
to clothes and fashion, expert attention is also given
to other lifestyle areas, such as cosmetics and beauty,
sports and gadgets, interior design and housewares.
Take advantage of their Shopping Passion Day, which
includes a full day of consultancy by lifestyle experts,
exclusive shopping in selected stores, a light gourmet
lunch in a trendy restaurant and of course VIP service
throughout. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Embassies & Consulates
Albania M-3, Zaloška 69, tel. (+386) 1 547 36 50.
Australia (consulate) K/L-2, Železna 14, tel. (+386)
1 234 8675.
Austria B-3, Prešernova 23, tel. (+386) 1479 07 00.
Belgium B-3, Trg Republike 3/ IX, tel. (+386) 1200
60 10.
Bosnia & Herzegovina K-2, Kolarjeva 26, tel. (+386)
1234 32 50.
Brazil C-3, Kongresni Trg 3, tel. (+386) 1244 24 00.
Bulgaria K-4, Opekarska cesta 35, tel. (+386) 1 28
32 899.
Canada (consulate) B-3, Trg Republike 3, tel. (+386)
1252 44 44.
China L-3, Koblarjeva 3, tel. (+386) 1420 28 55.
Croatia L-4, Gruberjevo Nabrežje 6, tel. (+386) 1425
62 20.
Cyprus D-2, Komenskega 12, tel. (+386) 1 232 15 42.
Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Czech Republic B-5, Riharjeva 1, tel. (+386) 1420
24 50.
Denmark C-1, Tivolska 48 (EuroCentre), tel. (+386)
1 43 80 800.
Finland C-2/3, Ajdovščina 4/8, tel. (+386) 1 300
21 20.
France C-5, Barjanska 1, tel. (+386) 1479 04 00.
Germany B-3, Prešernova 27, tel. (+386) 1479 03
00.
Greece K-4, Trnovski Pristan 14, tel. (+386) 1420
14 00.
Hungary Konrada Babnika 5, tel. (+386) 1512 18
82.
India K-2, Maurerjeva 29, tel. (+386) 1 513 31 10.
Ireland E-3, Poljanski Nasip 6, tel. (+386) 1 300 89
70.
Italy B-4, Snežniška 8, tel. (+386) 1 426 21 94.
Japan B-3, Trg republike 3/ XI, tel. (+386) 1200 82
81.
Latvia D-2, Tavčarjeva 10/7, tel. (+386) 1 434
1620.
Lithuania C-5, Emonska 8, tel. (+386) 1 244 56 00.
Macedonia J-4, Rožna dolina, Cesta IV/2, tel. (+386)
1 421 00 21.
Montenegro F-2, Njegoševa 14, tel. (+386) 1439
53 64.
Netherlands C-2, Poljanski nasip 6, tel. (+386) 1420
14 60.
Poland H-2, Bežigrad 10, tel. (+386) 1 436 47 12.
Portugal B-3, Trg Republike 3/X, tel. (+386) 1479
05 40.
Romania H-1, Smrekarjeva 33A, tel. (+386) 1505
82 94.
Russia A-2, Tomšičeva 9, tel. (+386) 1425 68 75.
Serbia C-2, Slomškova 1, tel. (+386) 1438 01 10.
Slovakia A-3, Bleiweisova 4, tel. (+386) 1425 54
25.
Spain C-4, Trnovski pristan 24, tel. (+386) 1420
23 30.
Sweden (consulate) C/D-2, Kersnikova 6, tel. (+386)
41 661 906.
Switzerland B-3, Trg republike 3/ VI, tel. (+386)
1200 86 40.
Turkey D-1, Livarska 4, tel. (+386) 1236 41 50.
Ukraine A-5, Teslova 23, tel. (+386) 1421 06 04.
UK B-3, Trg Republike 3/ 4, tel. (+386) 1 200 39 10.
USA B-3, Prešernova 31, tel. (+386) 1200 55 00.
Event Organisers
ISSIMO MICE Agency Šlandrova 4b, tel. +386 (0)5
901 53 77.
ljubljana.inyourpocket.com
business direCtory
Express Mail
DHL Špruha 19, Trzin, tel. (+386) 1588 78 00.
FedEx M-3, Ob Železnici 14, tel. (+386) 15 47 33 86.
Kurirček, tel. (+386) 80 1881.
Tine Express J-1, Nadgoriških Borcev 34, tel. (+386)
15 61 70 00.
TNT Express M-2, Šmartinska 152, tel. (+386) 15
87 83 00.
UPS Intereuropa Ljubljana Airport, tel. (+386) 42
81 12 00.
Language courses
Ars Linguae D-1, Dunajska 10, tel. (+386) 1300
27 11.
Center for Slovene as a Second/Foreign Language
C/D-4, 12 Kongresni Trg, tel. (+386) 12 41 86 77.
Veris J-1, Stegne 7, tel. (+386) 1 5000 579.
Pharmacies
Central Pharmacy (Centralna Lekarna) D-3,
Prešernov Trg 5, tel. (+386) 1230 61 00.
Lekarna Ljubljana (Lekarna pri polikliniki) F-2,
Prisojna 7, tel. (+386) 1230 61 00.
Lekarna Miklošič D-2, Miklošičeva 24, tel. (+386)
1230 61 00.
Shoe repair
Aleš Cevljar E-2, Barvarska Steza 5, tel. (+386) 40
241 282.
Translators
Alkemist J-2, Obirska 4, tel. (+386) 1 514 16 78.
Kibord Stranska Vas 17b, Dobrova pri Ljubljani, tel. +386
(0)40 747 447, info@kibord.si, www.kibord.si. Kibord
employs a dynamic young team of translators, interpreters
and proofreaders, who are fast, reliable and most importantly
accurate - which is why they are our company of choice when we
need translation for our guides. Extras include bulk discounts for
larger orders and first-time customers, free binding for students
and a generally creative approach to problem solving difficult
jobs. Translation to and from more than a dozen languages are
regularly offered, and if you need something more obscure they
can do that too with some advance notice.
Visit ljubljana.inyourpocket.com for
info on hundreds of more hotels,
restaurants, bars and shops in our city
October - November 2012
45

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Vol a ričeva
Pod turnom
Škrabčeva ulica
Štrekljeva
Oražnova
TR
A B C D
International Cntre of Graphic arts
Rutarjeva
Cesta v Rožno dolino
Oražnova ulica
Jamova
©MONOLIT
Hajdrihova ulica
A
Cesta 27. Aprila
Tržaška cesta
A
TIVOLI
MANSION
Bičevje
Langusova ulica
Tobacco Museum
UA
Tobačna
Tobačna
Museum of Conteporary History
SK
CEKIN
MANSION
Jakopičevo sprehajališče
Jamova cesta
Lepi pot
IT
Pod turnom
TIVOLI PARK
Bleiweisova cesta
Levstikova Veselova
Vrtača
Teslova ulica
Erjavčeva
ID
Trg mladinskih
delovnih brigad
Groharjeva cesta
AT
RU
CZ
Ortodox
National gallery
Museum of Modern Art
US
Museum of Natural History
DE
Prešernova
Mencingerjeva
B
Celovška cesta
Snežniška
Aškerčeva
Mirje
Murnikova
Jakopičev drevored
National Museum
Prešernova cesta
Gregorčičeva
Riharjeva ulica
B
Ruska ulica
GB CA
JP
PT
Valvasorjeva
Erjavčeva
Borštnikov
trg
Bogišićeva
BE MX
KR CH
Rimska
Mirje
Finžgarjeva ulica
Brewery Museum
Bleiweisova cesta
Muzejska
Puharjeva
Prežihova
Igriška
P ivovarniška
SC
The Holy
Trinity
FR
Evangelical
Štefanova
Cankarjeva
Tomšičeva
Šubičeva ulica
Trg
republike
Aškerčeva cesta
Barjanska cesta
LT
AO
LU
MT
DK
Plečnikov
BR
trg
Zvezda park
Slovenian School Museum
J. Turnograjske
Gradišče
Gradaščica
Kolezijs k a
Župančičeva
Beethovnova
Slovenska cesta
Ku rilniš ka
Puharjeva
Nebotičnikov
Soteska
Gregorčičeva
Emonska cesta
Vošnjakova
Vegova
Peternel.
Parmova
Geographical Museum
Trg francoske
revolucije
City Museum
Emonska
Ka r unova
C
Krakovsk a
Pri brv i
Parmova ulica
Tivolska cesta
Gosposvetska cesta
Argentina park
Dvorakova
ZA
Čopova
Gledališka
Knafljev prehod
Križevniška
Kla dezna
Kersnikova
Gosposka
Gradaška u lica
C
Vrtna
LV
Hribarjevo
Franciscan
Breg
Wolfova
Gerberjevo
Kratka
Židovska
Salendrova
Vr tna
Rečna
Eipprova
Vogelna
Likozarjeva
Krakovski nasip
Ajdovščina
Jurčičev
trg
Novi trg
Livarska
Trdinova
Nazorjeva
GallusovoCankarjevo
Krojaška
Pod trančo
Kleparska
Vodna
Stritarjeva
Ključavničar.
N
Ca
Ribji Cir
trg
History Museum
Stiška
Grudnovo
Zvezdars ka
Miklošičeva
Mačko va
Reber
Žabjak
Cigaletova
Tavčarjeva ulica
Dalmatinova ulica
Prešernov
trg
Stari
trg
Trnovski pristan
Mali trg
Obrežna
Meros odna
Za čre
Adamič-Lun
Kongresni
trg Dvorni
trg
Mestni
trg
Slo. National Theatre Museum
Zoisova cesta
Slovenska cesta
Dunajska cesta
Miklošič park
Levstikov
trg
Ro žna
Razgle
Gornji
trg
Za ograjami
Virtua
Rožn
Ma
H renova
Prule
D
M
P
S
J
Karlovška
A B
St. John C D
Voža
Zvo
Cim
D

a
Trg osvobodilne
fronte
BUS
STATION
iklošičeva cesta
O
slom
Mala
Prečna
drovo
thedral
Ovinki
TH
t.
acob
St.
Florian
CY
Cable railway
LJUBLJANA
CASTLE
dna steza
l Museum
čja steza
Osojna steza
N a grad
rski pot
Pražakova
ogačarjev
trg
il-Metodov
trg
cesta
narska
RS
Trubarjeva
Dolničarjeva
Na grad
permanova
Kolodvorska
Petkovškovo
Štud en to vska
Osojna pot
Sodarska steza
Čufarjeva
TRAIN
STATION
Komenskega ulica
Vodnikov
trg
Grajska planota
Pod gradom
Tesarska
Prijateljeva
Krekov
trg
Kopitarjeva
VA
Kastelčeva
NL
Sports Museum
Graj ski d re vo red
Čufarjeva
DK
IE
Barvarska
Znamenjska
Kristanov a
Clinic
for Child
Vidovdanska
NP
Usnjarska
Orlov vrh
The
Sacred
Heart
Etnographic Museum
Trubarjeva
Na stolbi Zdravstvena
Janežičeva
Robbova
Lončarska steza
Železna
Slomškova ulica
D E
E
F
G
E F G
Resljeva cesta Vilharjeva cesta
Poljanski nasip
Gestrinova
Strossmayerjeva
Ulica stare
Cesta Slov. km eč kih uporov
E
Kotnikova ulica
Ulica talcev
Za gradom
St.
Joseph
pravde
Metelkova
Zarnikova ulica
Hacquetova
Masarykova cesta
Tabor
Petkovškovo nabrežje
Poljanska
Ulica Janeza Pavla II.
Streliška ulica
Roška cesta
Metelkova ulica
Ilirska ulica
Rozmanova ulica
Strmi pot
Rozmanova ulica
Tabor
Maistrova ulica
Vrhovčeva
Paediatrics
Zemljemerska
Črtomirova
Friškovec
Prisojna
Hrvatski
trg
Trubarjeva cesta
Vrazov
trg
Hudovernikova
F
F
Novakova
ME
Institute
of Oncology
Lipičeva
Out-patient
Clinic
St.
Peter
Stomatology
Ambrožev
trg
Njegoševa cesta
Brejčeva
Roška cesta
Šmartinska cesta
Emergency
Service
Ljubljanica
Hradeckega cesta
Institute
of Oncology
Živinozdravska
Jenkova ulica
Japljeva
Infectious
Diseases
Gastroenterology
Paediatrics
University
Medical
Centre
Institute
of Oncology
Lipičeva ulica
Šmartinska cesta
Bolgarska
Bohoričeva ulica
Zaloška cesta
Poljanska cesta
Neurology
Traumatology
Dermatovenereology
Poljanski nasip
Kapusova
Mesarska
Mesarska
Korytkova
Strupijevo nabrežje
Gruber Canal
Mesarska
Kolinska ulica
Grablovičeva ulica
G
Potočnikova
Mesarska
Gynaecology
Mesarska
Močnikova
Sketova
Maternity
Hospital
Šlajmerjeva
Povšetova ulica
LJUBLJANA CITY CENTRE
SCALE 1:10,000
0 45 90 180 270
Meters
Legend
Post Office TH
Hospital TH Embassy
Church Museum
Tourist Information
TH
Gas
Parking
Parking garage
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50 LjubLjana distribution
Key Distribution Points
Arrivals Hall at Brnik Airport
Tourist Info Centre - Ljubljana Train Station
Tourist Info Centre - Adamič-Lundrovo
Nabrežje
Tourist Info Centre - Krekov Trg
Tourist Info Centre - Ljubljana Castle
Hotel Lev (in all rooms)
GoOpti (in all shuttles)
Embassies & Consulates
Hotels
Antiq Hotel
Antiq Palace & Spa
Austria Trend Hotel
Union Hotel Executive
Union Hotel Business
Union Hotel Central
Plaza Hotel
Slon Best Western Premier
Hotel Lesar Angel
Celica Hostel
City Hotel
Restaurants & Cafés
Argentino
Zvezda
Cubo
JB
Manna
Namasté
Shambala
Špajza
Hotel Cubo
M Hotel
Hotel Mons
Hotel Park
Hostel Print
Hotel Stil
Hotel Allegro
Hotel Adora
Ljubljana Resort
Apartment Kollmann
Gostilna na Gradu
Bistro
Makalonca
Cacao
Bikofe
Parma
Foculus
Le Petit Café
Lolita
Paninoteka+
Top Six Café
Rio Momo
Stara Mačka
Maček
As
Allegria
Pizzeria Osmica
Pomf
Roxly
Sputnik
Origano
Eksperiment
Moysushi
STA Travel Café
Druga Violina
Burger King
Plato
San Martino
Dulcis
Playa
Čolnarna
Pri Vodniku
Tandoori
+ Many others
Other Distribution Points
Hertz
CityPark
BTC Info Booth
Mestni Muzej Ljubljana
Galerija Emporium
PH Kapitelj
PH Meksiko
PH Šentpeter
PH Trdinova
Kino Šiška
Latino Night Club
Nama
Cukrček
Museum of Architecture & Design
Midas
Koda 386
Slovensko Mladinsko Gledališče
Oxalis Wellness
Sir Williams Pub
+ Many others
Events
Alpa-Adria TIP
Slovenian Wine Festival
Ljubljana Wine Road
Artish
Festival Ljubljana
Festival Brežice
Planica
Zlata Lisica
Red Party
+ Many others
Lent Festival
Travel Zoom
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Ljubljana In Your Pocket ljubljana.inyourpocket.com

Dubrovnik and Neretva County Tourist Board
www.visitdubrovnik.hr

HIGHLIGHTS
OCTOBER-
NOVEMBER
BORŠTNIK MEETING: BRIDGES
The Borštnik Meeting, the oldest and largest festival
of Slovenian theater, hopes to strengthen relations
with European centers of modern theater with its
international program Bridges (Mostovi).
����������������
SLOVENE NATIONAL THEATRE MARIBOR
CHICK COREA TRIO
CONCERT
As a trio, they’ll take up the musical dialogue that
started there - dynamic, deeply interactive and
irrepressibly swinging.
21.11.2012, at 21.00
LENT FESTIVAL HALL, MARIBOR
European Capital of Culture
F: Urška Boljkovac
THE INVISIBLE CIRCUS
(LE CIRQUE INVISIBLE)
SOFT CONTROL: ART, SCIENCE
AND THE TECHNOLOGICAL
UNCONSCIOUS
EXHIBITION
THE STAGE BETWEEN THE SKY
AND THE EARTH
Victoria Chaplin and Jean-Baptiste Thiérrée are
living theatre legends and their very special
circus has been stunning audiences across the
globe for forty years.
����������������at������
PARK THEATRE, MURSKA SOBOTA
The exhibition and a symposium curated by Dmitry
Bulatov from Kaliningrad reveals the technologically
unconscious where utopic dreams and apocalyptical
��������������������������������������
14.11.2012 - 15.12.2012
CARINTHIAN GALLERY OF FINE ARTS, SLOVENJ GRADEC
���������������������������������
For programme visit: www.maribor2012.eu