The Best Things to Do in Ljubljana in the Rain
The charming Slovenian capital of Ljubljana is always a pleasure to visit, even when the sun isn’t shining. There is a lot to see in this small European city so don’t let any bad weather slow you down. In this guide, we give you some great ideas for finding the best things to do in Ljubljana in the rain. We have also included our practical tips and local knowledge to make you trip even better.
When Does it Rain in Ljubljana?
Slovenia’s largest city is actually one of the wettest European capitals. That’s why it’s a great idea to have a plan for things to do in Ljubljana when it rains. September and October are generally the rainiest months, with January to April being drier.
Things to Do in Ljubljana in the Rain
Don’t let the wet weather put you off, there are loads of great things to do in Ljubljana when it rains! We have put together a comprehensive list of some of the best ideas to give you some wet weather inspiration.
Learn All About Beer at the Union Experience
Wet outside? May as well get wet inside too! If you’re a fan of beer, this is a must! Here you can learn about the history of the Pivovarna Union brewery and the local brewing traditions. You also get to sample some fresh beer at the end.
Address: Celovška cesta 22, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Things to Do in Ljubljana in the Rain – Experience the House of Illusions
This quirky exhibition will test your perceptions to the limit. With around 40 exhibits, optical illusions and holograms, as well as other installations such as the Mirror of Truth, Rubin’s Vase, Albert Einstein’s Hollow Face, this place will really mess with your senses. Expect to queue for entry if there is bad weather.
Address: Kongresni trg 13, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Spend a Night at the Opera
On a wet and rainy day in Ljubljana, an evening enjoying a performance at the opera is a great way to experience some culture and to stay dry. The Opera and Ballet theatre in Ljubljana offers a full programme, especially through the winter.
Things to Do in Ljubljana in the Rain – Visit the Art Galleries
There are several art galleries in Ljubljana. Certainly, there are enough to keep you busy until the rain finally gives up! The Museum of Modern Art and the National Gallery sit near each other, this is probably a good place to start. Other options include the International Centre of Graphic Arts and the Museum of Contemporary Arts
Museum of Modern Art – Address: Cankarjeva cesta 15, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
National Gallery – Address: Prešernova cesta 24, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Check Out the Stunning Churches
Ljubljana is full of beautiful churches. Many of which you can go inside when the weather is bad. The Church of the Annunciation sits in the centre of Prešernov trg Square. It’s bright pink so you can’t really miss it. Saint Cyril and Methodius Church near Tivoli park is also beautiful and you can enjoy the peace inside this amazing building.
Things to Do in Ljubljana in the Rain – Soak up the Café Culture
Ljubljana is full of amazing cafes and restaurants. If you visit on a rainy day, this is the perfect opportunity to try out a few of these great places. When it’s raining in Ljubljana, we like to take a long brunch in Slovenska Hisa (Slovenian House). The food is really good quality and it has a relaxed vibe. You can even sit outside, under cover, and watch the rain. If you want to hide from the rain completely, head into the basement of Sarajevo 84 and enjoy some hearty Bosnian food and a really cosy atmosphere.
If you are looking for a coffee, you are spoiled for choice in Ljubljana! Our recommendations are Kavarna Macek because of it’s nice location by the river, and Cocoa Ljubljana for its scrumptious cakes and good coffee.
Things to Do in Ljubljana in the Rain – Partake in Some Retail Therapy
Ljubljana has quite a few shops in its small centre. Including a few departments stores, as well as the usual international chains. A browse around the shops is a really good way to stay dry when it rains in Ljubljana. There are, of course, some larger malls outside of the city centre. Try Shopping Centre City Park or Supernova Ljubljana Rudnik.
Address: Moskovska ulica 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Address: Jurčkova Cesta 223, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Go Bargain Hunting at Central Market
If you’re not quite done with the bargain hunting, have a wander through Central Market. It’s a great idea for something to do in Ljubljana in the rain as it is covered and there is plenty to see. There are also lots of places to try some different kinds of food.
Address: Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 6, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Things to Do in Ljubljana in the Rain – Watch the River
When it rains in Ljubljana the Ljubljanica River really picks up the pace. Stand on the 19th century “Triple Bridge” – or Tromostovje – and watch the power of the water flow through the city.
Check out the Crumbling Bellevue Hotel
This might seem like an odd thing to do in Ljubljana in the rain, but hear us out… Abandoned buildings take on an even more creepy aura in the rain. Take a walk through Tivoli Park and check out the old Bellevue Hotel. It was built in 1909 in an art nouveau style, it now lies in ruin. You can get a pretty good look from the outside of the hotel. However, it is unsafe, and illegal, to enter.
Things to Do in Ljubljana in the Rain – Peruse the Old Library in the Seminary Palace
This is rather an off the beaten path thing to do in Ljubljana in the rain! The library dates back to 1701 and has a stunning interior. It also houses several medieval manuscripts and numerous precious prints. To visit the library, you just book in advance at the tourist information centre by the three bridges.
Tržnica, Dolničarjeva ulica 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
How to Get Around Ljubljana in the Rain
Ljubljana is not a big city. Even in the rain it is easy to cover on foot. With the right clothing, the rain won’t stop you from exploring. If the thought of walking around Ljubljana in the rain really doesn’t appeal, there are local buses that will take you where you want to go. You can also flag a taxi if you are in a hurry. Just make sure you agree a price before you get in the car. It is cheaper to book a taxi than to hail it from the street.
What to Pack when Exploring Ljubljana in the Rain
Some of these go without saying, however, we have put together a helpful list for you so you won’t forget any of the basics you might need when exploring Ljubljana in the rain.
- Hiking boots or waterproof shoes
- Backpack with protective cover
- Spare socks
- Water bottle
- Waterproof jacket
- Umbrella
- Phone
- Charging bank if needed
- Decent camera (phone) with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery
The Best Things to do in Ljubljana in the Rain
Slovenia’s capital is a city absolutely crammed full of weird and wonderful things to do. A rainy day in Ljubljana definitely won’t stop you from experiencing what it has to offer. There are loads of fun indoor activities that will suit everyone. Some of the best things to do in Ljubljana can be found when it rains!
Where to go next
Ready for another adventure? Why not try beautiful Zadar in neighbouring Croatia? There is so much history and culture here, you won’t want to miss!
Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.
Have you visited Ljubljana or Slovenia? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!
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