I have heard several travel blogger rave about this insider’s tip, hidden between the popular tourist destinations of Italy and Croatia. With some ridiculously cheap bus ticket offers to Ljubljana, the opportunity was too good to resist.

The urban image of the city is a reminder of its past as part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, its proximity to Northern Italy and its ties to the Balkans. The house facades along the river Ljubljanica reminded me of Venice, with a lot of beautiful Cafés and restaurants on both sides of the river. At night, this area of the city comes alive with street musicians and locals and tourists strolling the old town and enjoying a tasty gelato. Probably half of the city’s important buildings are by architect Jože Plečnik, it is said that his impact on the city is even greater than Gaudi‘s on Barcelona.

Here are just some moments captured on camera:

Lying on a small hill is Ljubljana Castle, probably the most touristy place of Ljubljana and home to the dragon. While I expected a plain old castle, it surprised me with its modern architecture and modern interior, check out the basement:

Ljubljana’s nightlife was one of the best I’ve experienced so far. Musicians and dancers show off their talents, also nighttime offers a great opportunity for some night photography.