Ljubljana Sightseeing: Plečnik's Bridges

Ljubljana Sights by Plečnik

One architect shaped most of what visitors photograph in Ljubljana. Jože Plečnik reworked its riverbanks, bridges and squares in the 20th century, and in 2021 UNESCO listed “The works of Jože Plečnik in Ljubljana”. Following his projects gives you a sightseeing route that is almost entirely free.

Triple Bridge

Between 1929 and 1932 Plečnik added two pedestrian bridges on either side of a stone bridge from 1842, giving the crossing between Prešeren Square and the old town its fan shape. Stand on the central span and you see Prešeren Square, the pink Franciscan Church of 1660 and the castle on its hill, all in one frame.

The river embankment and market

Walk south along the Ljubljanica to the covered market colonnade, a two-storey arcade with food stalls and cafés. A few steps further, Cobblers’ Bridge crosses the water, and the embankments continue as a shaded promenade. This stretch is the best place for a coffee stop, and nothing here costs money to look at.

The National and University Library

NUK is the library with the black limestone and red brick facade. The entrance staircase leads up towards the light-filled reading room. It is a short detour from the old town.

Plečnik House

The architect’s own home and studio in Trnovo is open for guided visits only. Tours start every full hour, Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00 and 18:00, and the house is closed on Mondays. Adults pay about €9 and a family ticket is €18, per the Museum and Galleries of Ljubljana . Arrive a little before the hour.

Other landmarks nearby

  • Dragon Bridge: four sheet-copper dragons from 1901 stand at the corners of this Art Nouveau crossing.
  • Robba Fountain: the 1751 marble fountain in front of Town Hall, whose obelisks stand for the Sava, Krka and Ljubljanica rivers.
  • Ljubljana Castle: the viewing tower gives the widest panorama. Entry is €15 at points of sale or €13.50 online, or €19 and €17.10 with the funicular. See Ljubljana Castle for hours.
  • Tivoli Park: the Jakopič Promenade runs between chestnut trees with open-air photography exhibitions.

Getting between sights

The centre is pedestrian-only, so you walk almost everywhere. For Plečnik House in Trnovo, take an LPP bus, at €1.50 a ride, or a BicikeLJ bike. The Ljubljana Tourism site offers maps and current opening hours. If you prefer a guide, Ljubljana tours on GetYourGuide lists the options.

Tip

Walk the Plečnik route from the Triple Bridge to the market in early morning, before tour groups arrive, and keep the castle for late afternoon. The walking tours page covers the quieter neighbourhood routes.