Getting Around Ljubljana
Ljubljana's city centre is compact and easily navigable on foot, with clear street markings making it simple to find your way. A free city map is available from tourist information centres and the train station.
Public Transport Overview
The city has an extensive public transport network operated according to published routes and timetables. Bus services are the most widely used form of public transport, run by the Ljubljana Passenger Transport (LPP) company. All local and international buses depart from Ljubljana's central bus hub, located next to the railway station.
Buses
Buses are Ljubljana's primary public transport mode. The network covers approximately 97% of the urban area of the Municipality of Ljubljana, meaning nearly all households are within a short walk of a bus stop.
Bus tickets can be purchased using the Urbana payment card or by mobile phone. The Urbana card is a reusable payment system that works across multiple transport modes in the city.
Dedicated bus lanes are limited, which can cause congestion during peak hours. From November 2025, LPP will introduce its first carbon-neutral hydrogen-powered buses to the network.
Trams
Ljubljana's historical tram system was dismantled in 1959 in favour of automobiles. Although reintroduction of a tram system has been proposed repeatedly since the 2000s, trams do not currently operate in Ljubljana.
Electric Shuttle Bus and Funicular
The Cavalier is a free electric shuttle bus that operates in the car-free downtown zone. It can be stopped anywhere along its routes—no fixed stations are required—and carries up to five passengers. There are multiple Cavalier vehicles serving different routes through the city centre.
The Ljubljana Castle funicular has operated since the end of 2006, running from Krek Square near the Ljubljana Central Market to Ljubljana Castle. The full trip takes 60 seconds and is popular with tourists. Rides can be paid using the Urbana card.
Cycling
Bicycles are a popular way to get around, especially during warmer months. The BicikeLJ self-service bicycle rental system offers bikes and parking spots at stations throughout the wider city centre area. Bikes can also be rented through other providers.
Cycling conditions include some dedicated cycle lanes, though these are sometimes in poor condition. One-way streets can make it difficult to use bicycles as alternate routes through the city centre, and some cycle infrastructure has been criticized for privileging motorized traffic.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available throughout the city. Standard metered taxi fares apply, though specific rates vary by operator.
Rail Network
Ljubljana is a major rail intersection where international transit trains pass through and all international passenger trains stop. The Ljubljana railway station serves as the central hub of this network. The railway station is located approximately one kilometre north of the city river, with the bus station on its south side.
Slovenian Railways offers the possibility to purchase daily or monthly city passes that can be used to travel between the city's six passenger stations and nine stops. Domestic tickets can be purchased from ticket machines in the station or online. International train tickets must be purchased at the ticket desk.
Getting to the Airport
Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport is located approximately 27 kilometres north of the city. Several transport options connect the airport to the city centre:
- Bus: Arriva Bus operates services taking approximately 30 to 50 minutes to reach the main bus and railway station. The Arriva service runs at regular intervals on weekdays and weekends. Alternatively, bus route 64 (LPP) provides a connection and accepts the Urbana card for payment. Some bus services continue from the airport to Bled.
- Shuttle services: Multiple shuttle operators offer transfers, typically at a fixed per-person rate, with options for private door-to-door transfers at higher cost.
- Taxi: Metered taxis are available from the airport, though fares to the city centre are substantial.
- Car rental: Multiple car rental agencies operate from the airport terminals.
Water Transport
Tourist boats operate on the Ljubljanica river, offering cruises through the old town, including routes to the Dragon Bridge and past Ljubljana Castle. Holders of the Ljubljana Tourist Card can use this service free of charge.