Ljubljana

This mid-sized European city has managed to preserve the warm welcome and friendliness of a relaxed small town while offering all the facilities and attractions of a modern capital. Each year the city plays host to over 10,000 cultural events, including 14 international festivals, from prestigious musical, theatre and art events to alternative and avant-garde celebrations.

The city itself is reminiscent of an open-air museum, showcasing architecture and design from various stages of its history. Its oldest architecture has been preserved from the Roman period, however its old town was shaped in the Middle Ages. Many of its downtown buildings were destroyed in an earthquake in 1511 and were rebuilt in the Baroque style, as was common in Italy, particularly Venice, at that time. Another earthquake in 1895, meant that Ljubljana was partially rebuilt once again, this time in Vienna Secession style which you can see contrasting with the former baroque buildings that still remain today.

For a more in-depth look at the city, check out our definitive guide to a Ljubljana city break.

• Flight time from London: 2 hours 10 min
• Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport: 27km from the city centre; transfer time about 1 hour
• Nearest railway station: Ljubljana railway station
• Currency: Euro