Part of your time in Ljubljana should be spent walking across each of the city’s best bridges.
The Slovenian city of Ljubljana doesn’t mess around when it comes to providing memorable walkways to get from one side of Ljubljanica River to the other. Here are my three favorite bridges in Ljubljana that will likely become your favorites, too.
Ljubljana’s Iconic Dragon Bridge
Long before the world of Khaleesi and dragons on Game of Thrones (what can I say, that’s the first thing that comes to mind nowadays when dragons come up; sorry Lord of the Rings), Ljubljana already knew how cool dragons were. Or at least the architect did who designed the Dragon Bridge back in 1888 under the direction of Mayor Hribar, who commissioned the project in honor of the 40th anniversary of Emperor Franc Jožef I.
It’s easy to see why the bridge gets the name as dragons flank the ends of the bridge on each side, their mouths gaping wide open, looking like they’re ready to breathe fire on anyone who dares to cross. But cross you’ll want to do, paying attention to the Secession-inspired construction and cast iron details (an innovative design at the time) of the bridge. Dragon Bridge also provides an easy gateway across the river to busy Resljeva Cesta street where you’ll find lots of shops and restaurants (and a favorite Ljubljana liquor store of mine).
Triple Bridge: A Unique Bridge by One of Ljubljana’s Prettiest Squares
Ljubljana makes it easy to remember bridges thanks to what they’re named. Triple Bridge is exactly as it sounds – three bridges. This is my favorite bridge in Ljubljana simply because of the sheer beauty of it and its surroundings.
But these bridges are special as they connect and intersect across Ljubljanica River and provide a criss-cross of white stone and ornate columns framing diagonal stairs leading to underground walkways and bars. You may want to cross this bridge a few times to experience each part.
Triple Bridge is gorgeous in its own right, but its beauty is maximized by the bridge’s close proximity to Franciscan Church, a pink hued building that stands gloriously at the northern end of Triple Bridge in a small, but vibrant courtyard called Preseren Square. This is a great area to be at night thanks to the bars that are close by and – if you’re lucky – a popup musical performance. That’s what happened the night I was there and it was such a fun ambiance and great memory to have of the city.
Cobbler’s Bridge
Ok, technically the reason I’m sending you to Cobbler’s Bridge isn’t because of the actual bridge.
Though nice, you’ll want to turn your attention just east of the bridge, where there is an alley opening. At the top of that opening is a work of hobo-like art: a bunch of shoes strung up and dangling in the moonlight (or sunlight depending when you visit). Hightops, sneakers, boots, flip-flops…all style shoes are on display, hanging down at different lengths like mistletoe gone wrong. It’s a fun, eclectic sight to see in an otherwise stately city.
Which Ljubljana bridge is your favorite?
And one more thing — Are you going to be short on time in Ljubljana? Check out this one day itinerary for Ljubljana.
Did you find this article helpful? Pin to read again later!
