It’s rare in my travels that I’ve found places that appear completely void of American tourists during high season, but Ljubljana, Slovenia felt like my private undiscovered gem in Eastern Europe. What began as a last-minute solo weekend trip turned into one of my favorite spots to visit, complete with exquisite food, beautiful architecture, and a bit of nature all in one.
What truly drew me to Ljubljana was the emerging food scene, with inventive chefs presenting tasting menus that are sure to surprise and delight your palate.
The award winning Strelec Restaurant sits on top of the city in Ljubljana Castle’s Shooter’s Tower, offering views, history, and a culinary exploration all in one. With options between three and nine courses, Strelec’s menu is inspired by the city’s history and complemented with an impressive list of Slovenian and international wines. Don’t be fooled by the sound of the “poor man’s bread” – this potato dish, stuffed with a runny egg yolk and surrounded by truffles and potato foam, is not to be missed.
Luda 
Strelec 
Luda
Tiny and tucked away on one of Ljubljana’s quieter streets is Luda, another fine dining experience but with a homey comfort. The restaurant only offers seven dishes at a time, which can be served as part of a three or five course tasting menu. The ever-changing dishes are a blend between Slovenian and Italian cuisine, with melt in your mouth gnudi and a light yet flavorful fish crudo as two of the highlights (though the menu has certainly evolved since then). Their expert way of showcasing fresh ingredients makes you want to return with every change of the menu.
During the day, it’s easy to lose track of time wandering the streets of Ljubljana’s old town. The charming and laid-back city features stunning European architecture in a rainbow of sherbet colors placed along a winding green-hued river. Simply wandering the streets and perusing quaint art shops or hand-made gift shops is the perfect way to spend an afternoon, of course with a stop at one of the many outdoor cafes for a coffee or aperitif. The abundance of greenery in Ljubljana gives it a fresh feeling that pulls you outside every chance you get.
As a smaller town, Ljubljana only recently opened its first Five Star hotel, the InterContinental. The modern space has all the amenities one would expect from an InterContinental, pulled together with a sleek design, elegant restaurant, and a gorgeous pool with views of the city.
Hotel Cubo 
InterContinental
For the traveler who favors a boutique hotel, Hotel Cubo is the go-to choice. Built in the 1930s, Hotel Cubo has maintained its Art Deco façade but updated the interiors with a sleek and contemporary aesthetic. The rounded front corner rooms are our favorites, with a bit more space and a round bed. Plus, the eponymous restaurant offers a ten-course seasonal tasting menu for one of the most exclusive dining experiences in Ljubljana that is both urban and cozy at the same time.
