Ljubljana: Day Trips and Tours from Zagreb

The capital of Croatia has plenty to offer, yet once you’ve visited the main attractions, it’s time to explore further afield. Zagreb isn’t far from the Slovenian border, so why not take a day trip to Ljubljana and tick off a whole new country?

You’ll discover the historic center of Ljubljana, with its cobblestone streets and medieval fortress. Some day tours to Ljubljana from Zagreb even squeeze in a visit to Lake Bled too.

Here's all you need to know about Ljubljana, one of the most exciting day trips from Zagreb.

How to get to Ljubljana from Zagreb?

Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia and can be easily reached from Zagreb. A guided tour is the simplest option, but you can also get there by car or on public transport.

From Zagreb to Ljubljana by car

Just 140 kilometers separate Zagreb and Ljubljana, so it’s straightforward to combine the two on a day trip. You’ll need to drive west on the E70, before picking up the A2 all the way to Ljubljana. This is a toll route so have some change ready. The journey takes 2.5 – 3 hours depending on traffic.

From Zagreb to Ljubljana by public transport

By train

Direct trains run between Zagreb and Ljubljana, with the trip taking 2 hours and 15 minutes. Single tickets cost around €25.

There are usually three departures a day, with morning, afternoon and evening options. It’s best to buy a ticket in advance to guarantee a seat.

By bus

It’s also possible to take a direct bus over the border to the Slovenian capital. The journey to Ljubljana from Zagreb lasts about 2.5 hours, making a few stops along the way.

Buses depart and arrive at the central bus station in each city. Popular operators include FlixBus, Florentina Bus and Union Ivkoni, with tickets costing an average of €15 for a one-way trip.

Guided tour to Ljubljana from Zagreb

A guided day trip to Ljubljana from Zagreb is a stress-free way of crossing the border and seeing what Slovenia has to offer. All transport logistics are taken care of, and many tour companies will collect you from your hotel.

Excursions last a full day – sometimes up to 13 hours – so you can make the most of your time out and about.

What is the typical itinerary?

Most Ljubljana day trips from Zagreb begin with a pickup at your hotel, and then a road transfer by minivan. Your guide will tell you what to do at the border crossing – make sure you have your passport or ID to hand.

Enjoy the scenic Slovenian countryside as you travel toward the capital. Your first stop will be Ljubljana, where a walking tour is often provided. There is usually a bit of free time to explore on your own too.

You’ll then continue to Bled, which is just a short drive from the city. A visit to Bled Castle is a highlight, with views out toward the Julian Alps stealing the show.

There will be time to check out the town too, with a stop in a local café to sample the famous cream cake.

Some tours then continue to the Postojna Caves or Predjama Castle for further explorations. In the late afternoon, you’ll make the return journey across the border, back into Croatia. Plan to arrive back at your hotel in the late evening.

What kind of tours are available to go to Ljubljana?

There are lots of different day trips to Ljubljana, with both group and private options to choose from. Some tours take in additional destinations for a more comprehensive overview of Slovenia.

Guided group tour to Ljubljana plus Lake Bled from Zagreb

If you’re looking for an excursion to Ljubljana that’s friendly on the wallet, then a group tour is your best bet. This is a fun way to meet like-minded travelers too.

Participant numbers are generally limited to 8 persons, so the experience never feels impersonal.

Pickups from select hotels are often included, making for seamless round-trip transfers. You’ll be accompanied by a guide who will show you all the best places in Ljubljana.

Day tour to Ljubljana plus Lake Bled and Postojna Caves from Zagreb

The ultimate Ljubljana day trip also takes in Lake Bled and the famous Postojna Caves. These are two of the most-visited attractions in Slovenia and shouldn’t be missed.

You’ll be traveling by minivan on a small group basis. In some locations, you’ll enjoy a guided tour and in others, there will be free time to explore at leisure. It’s a long day out but one you’ll never forget.

Private day trip to Ljubljana from Zagreb

These private tours to Ljubljana from Zagreb offer a little more luxury than the group trips. You’ll have your own car and driver for an exclusive experience.

The itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your interests and requirements. Popular stops can include Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle and Lake Bled as well as Ljubljana. Just let your guide know where you want to go.

Private transfer to Ljubljana from Zagreb

If you just want to get from Zagreb to Ljubljana without a tour, then a private transfer is an option. You’ll journey in style in a luxury vehicle with hotel pickups to make your life easy.

This is a great choice if you’re planning on exploring more of Slovenia rather than returning to Croatia.

How much does a day trip to Ljubljana from Zagreb cost?

A guided jaunt to Ljubljana that also incorporates a visit to Lake Bled costs from €120 per participant. This usually includes a guide, transport and collection at your hotel in Zagreb. If you want to stop at the Postojna Caves, the price increases to €160.

For a private Ljubljana day tour, prices start at €170 per person. Hotel pickups, air-conditioned car transfers, skip-the-line tickets and a guide are included in the package price. You will need to purchase food and drinks separately.

A private transfer from Zagreb to Ljubljana costs €300 for up to three passengers. This includes door-to-door travel in a luxury Mercedes car and road tolls.

What will you see?

The capital of Slovenia is a charming city that can easily be explored on foot. With its trendy neighborhoods and Art Nouveau architecture, Ljubljana is one of Europe’s up-and-coming destinations. Here are the highlights of a Ljubljana day tour from Zagreb.

Ljubljana Castle

No trip to Ljubljana is complete without visiting the castle. This medieval fortress is perched on a hill in the heart of the city, keeping watch on the surrounding lands.

You can climb up if you’re feeling energetic, but most people opt to ride the funicular railway to the top. Once you’ve explored the courtyard and admired the military buildings, head up the watchtower for the best views in town.

Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge

The triple bridge, whose main arch was built in the 1840s and extended by the two outer bridge elements at the end of the 1920s by the famous local architect Jože Plečnik, is the ideal photo spot. Located just off Prešeren Square, this collection of three stone bridges is a feast for the eyes.

Walking across the iconic Dragon Bridge is also a must on your day tour to Ljubljana. The dragon is the symbol of Ljubljana, and you’ll see statues of these legendary beasts popping up all around the historical center.

Central Market

It’s always fun to visit a market on your travels, and the one in Ljubljana is particularly eye-catching. This beautiful building lines the river between the Triple Bridge and the Dragon Bridge.

It was designed by Jože Plečnik and boasts a majestic colonnade, where stalls sell everything from artisan goods to cured meats.

Ljubljana Cathedral

The city’s main cathedral is Baroque in design, with a magnificent dome that will have you reaching for the camera. Outside, the striking yellow façade draws the eye – its design dates to the 18th century.

There are several works of art to admire inside, with frescoes by famous painters like Francesco Robba and Angelo Putti.

When is the best time to visit Ljubljana?

Summer is a lovely time to take a day trip to Ljubljana. The weather is warm, and the light brings out the colors of the buildings. Yet it does get busy in July and August, so avoid these months if you’re not a fan of the crowds.

Prices are lower during spring and fall, and although temperatures are cooler this can be a lovely time to visit. You might even have some of the attractions to yourself.

Travel tips

• Since Croatia has been part of the Schengen area since the beginning of 2023, there are no longer any border controls.
• All visa requirements are the responsibility of the traveler so if in doubt, check this before booking your trip.
• There’s a fair amount of walking involved during these day trips to Ljubljana from Zagreb, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
• Tours operate in all weathers so if rain is forecast, pack a waterproof jacket.