Slovenia’s majestic capital Ljubljana is a city of two sides, where the country’s energetic youth dovetail with its age-old architectural illustriousness and more traditional, earthy heritage. Here, the dominating castle atop Grajski grič casts its long shadows over the wide squares of the new town, where students hangout on the neoclassical monuments and the elegant Ljubljanica River winds its way past the hubbub of central cafes and bars.
Ljubljana is endearingly small and welcomingly compact; consequently all the major sights, be it the Dragon Bridge or its green parks are within walking distance, and the city is a perfect base for out-of-town excursions to places like Bled or the Julian Alps.
But, if you’re after a taste of the fabled Slovenian nightlife, then be sure to ask your Ljubljana tour guide for tips on the Metelkova district, a semi-autonomous squat complex that buzzes with heavy metal and alternative types until the (very) early hours of the morning!