Ljubljana in Slovenia is very photographic, and throughout the city there are lots of great photography spots from high viewpoints, river views and cute streets. In this post, I will tell you the best Instagram and photography spots that I’ve found during my visits. As well as the spots you’ll find my recommendations on the best time to take pictures, whether the location is free or not, and a link to the spot on Google Maps.
More posts on Instagram and Photography Guides.
Here are some of the best and must-visit Instagram and photography spots in Ljubljana.
Here are some top activities that you may like for Ljubljana.
1. Ribja Brv Footbridge towards Franciscan Church
From Ribja Brv Footbridge you’ll be able to capture some classic views towards the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation, and also potentially get reflections in your shots. This spot is good almost anytime and I would recommend re-visiting to take pictures in a different light.
Best time for pics: Sunrise, Blue hour
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
2. From Cankarjevo nabrežje
One of my favourite spots in Ljubljana is along “Cankarjevo nabrežje” (street) by the side of the river, where you’ll find a lot of al-fresco dining restaurants. From here if the water is still, ie no wind, boats etc, you should be able to get perfect reflection shots of the colourful facades lining the river. Using reflections is great for Instagrammable photographs as you’ll find it a lot easier to crop your image.
Best time for pics: Morning, Day
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
3. Ljubljana Castle tower
From Ljubljana Castle, you’ll get to enjoy the highest views over the city. I’ve only visited during the day but this may potentially be a good spot for taking pictures in the golden and blue hour.
Best time for pics: Day
Cost: Ticketed
Location: View on Google Maps
4. Ljubljana Castle Spiral Staircase
Also inside the castle is an awesome staircase that you can see below.
Best time for pics: Day
Cost: Ticketed
Location: View on Google Maps
5. Cobblers Bridge (Šuštarski most)
Another nice and historic bridge in Ljubljana, this is one of the oldest in the city. From this spot you can capture the pillars that come out of the bridge, with historic facades on either side.
Best time for pics: Anytime
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
6. Nebotičnik Skyscraper
My favourite viewpoint in the city is from the Nebotičnik skyscraper, which is also a bar/cafe where you can enjoy affordable refreshments. This would be one of the best Instagram and photography spots in Ljubljana and the staff are also nice and seemed cool with tripods being used.
Best time for pics: Sunset/Blue hour
Cost: Free (Polite to buy a drink)
Location: View on Google Maps
7. Triple Bridge (Tromostovje)
This bridge isn’t the easiest to capture, so instead of trying to capture the entire bridge, try and isolate a section of it, such as what I’ve done below. You could also try and head here when it’s less busy, such as in the morning, and try and use a friend or yourself to add an interesting human element.
Best time for pics: Morning/Night
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
8. Prešeren Square
Prešeren Square is the main square in Ljubljana, and depending on your style of photography you may be able to get some good shots. The church is also a nice red so perfect for photography.
Best time for pics: Morning/Blue Hour
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
9. Dragon Bridge
The Dragon Bridge is probably one of the most famous bridges in the city. At both sides, you’ll find two dragons and I found a good way to take photographs is to use an ND filter and take a slightly longer exposure that shows the movement of traffic.
Best time for pics: Anytime
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
10. Butchers’ Bridge (Mesarski most)
From Mesarski most (bridge) you’ll be able to get a nice view towards the Triple Bridge and the architecture lining the river. If you’re feeling creative you could also try and include the padlocks that are attached to the bridge in your image.
Best time for pics: Anytime
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
11. Town Square (Mestni trg)
The main town square is nice with a fountain, cobbled streets, nice facades, al-fresco dining and churches nearby. If you want it quiet come in the morning, but if you wanted to show street life then the afternoon may be good.
Best time for pics: Anytime
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
12. Stari Trg
Stari Trg is a narrow street that leads from the Town Square. Along it are nice facades and shops, as well as sometimes al fresco dining setups as seen below. The streets make for wonderful Instagrammable shots where you can really show what the destination is like to your followers.
Best time for pics: Day
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
13. Križevniška ulica
I think of “Križevniška ulica” (street) as almost a hidden gem and somehow during my first visit to Ljubljana I stumbled across it. I loved the large number of plant pots lining the cobbled street with the church in the distance. This street is likely best from Spring to Autumn as it didn’t look this nice in the winter.
Best time for pics: Day
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
14. Facades along Gallusovo nabrežje
Some of my favourite facades in Ljubljana are along “Gallusovo nabrežje” (street). They remind me a little of the tall skinny architecture that you see in Amsterdam. To take pictures you want to stand on the opposite side of the river, and from some perspectives you can frame with the Castle in the background.
Best time for pics: Day
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
15. Along Cankarjevo nabrežje
Cankarjevo nabrežje (street) is one of the top streets for street-side dining and throughout the summer is a great place to relax with a nice cold drink. It also makes for great photographs with nice foliage, lamp posts and from some angles you can capture the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation in the distance.
Best time for pics: Day
Cost: Free
Location: View on Google Maps
Ljubljana photography tips
Here are some tips for taking pictures in Ljubljana
- Use an ND filter when taking pictures during the day, or for longer exposures at sunset.
- Take pictures of the skyline at night and remember to use a tripod.
- Explore the city and along the river in the morning for quiet streets.
- Try and capture reflections in the river which will enhance your composition, especially for Instagram.
- Add people/friends to your photographs for a nice human touch.
Head to my post Ultimate Tips for Travel Photography for lots more tips.
Tours and activities
Here are some tours and activities you may like through our partner:
Summary
A visit to Ljubljana will be sure to give you lots of fantastic photo opportunities. As well as Ljubljana you may want to visit Bled Lake which is an hour bus ride from the city. This is also available as a tour which includes the incredible Vintgar Gorge as well. Head to GetYourGuide to learn more).
Need a place to stay in Ljubljana?
Book one of my recommended hotels below or find a deal on Booking.com:
Recommended hostel: AdHoc Hostel – A cool hostel in a great location along the river.
Recommended hotel: Galeria River – Located along the river and a short walk from the centre of the city, this hotel provides clean bright rooms and for a good price.
Ready to book? Search for: