Ljubljana in 2 Days for Couples - Sunset dinner at Strelec in Ljubljana Castle
A gently paced, intimate 2-day plan for couples in Ljubljana (May, Spring). Combines castle sunsets, cozy cafés, riverside strolls, a couple's spa, and two memorable special moments: a sunset dinner at Ljubljana Castle and a private spa experience. Perfect for romance, golden-hour photos, and unhurried time together.
Highlights
- Sunset dinner at Strelec in Ljubljana Castle
- Rooftop cocktails with city views at Nebotičnik
- Couple's spa session at Grand Hotel Union
- Unhurried riverside walks along the Ljubljanica
- Picnic-worthy wander through Tivoli Park
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive, settle into the old town rhythm, enjoy a gentle afternoon exploring the river and castle, then savor a sunset dinner in the castle followed by rooftop cocktails.
Late-morning coffee and light brunch at TOZD
Begin your romantic weekend with a relaxed coffee and seasonal light brunch in a stylish, intimate café often loved by locals. Good spot to plan the day's easy pace together.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a quiet table near the windows for people-watching without the noise — perfect for private conversation.
- Split a few small plates (they do great sharing dishes) so you can taste more and feed each other bites for a cozy vibe.
- If you prefer shaded outdoor seating, request it — Trubarjeva's sun is lovely in May but can be strong by late morning.
Preseren Square & Triple Bridge – a slow stroll and photo stop
Wander from the café to the heart of old town. Enjoy the iconic views of Prešeren Square and the Triple Bridge — an easy, romantic introduction to Ljubljana's historic center.
Tips from local experts:
- Stand on the central bridge at different angles for soft, golden-hour style photos even before sunset.
- Look up to spot Jože Plečnik's subtle architectural details — a shared little discovery makes the walk more intimate.
- If you need a quieter moment, cross the smaller pedestrian bridges south of Tromostovje for less foot traffic and private bench spots.
Central Market tasting stroll (light lunch from stalls)
Sample local bites and fresh market treats together — soft cheeses, honey, seasonal produce and a glass of Slovenian wine or craft lemonade. Eat casually at a market bench or a nearby riverside table.
Tips from local experts:
- Try sharing a couple of different stalls' specialities so you can feed each other tastes (karst prosciutto, local cheeses, or a sweet potica slice).
- Bring a small blanket or ask for a bench spot near the market to sit close and enjoy the people-watching.
- If one of you has dietary needs, mention it to vendors — many sell clearly labeled, fresh options.
Leisurely riverside walk along the Ljubljanica
Wander hand-in-hand along the Ljubljanica's quays, enjoy quaint bridges and artists' stalls, and pause at a bench for an intimate chat as swans glide by.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk upstream toward the castle for quieter lanes and more intimate spots away from the busiest restaurants.
- Pause under willow trees or find a bench near the river to share a moment — bring a light jacket for cool May breezes.
- If you want candid photos, the reflections on the river in spring create great soft-light portraits.
Check in and relax at your boutique hotel (Vander Urbani Resort)
Drop bags, freshen up, and rest a little at your centrally located boutique hotel so you feel revived for an evening of sunset views and dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the desk for a quiet room facing a courtyard if you want an especially restful afternoon nap.
- Request a later dining reservation to allow an unhurried pre-dinner sunset at the castle.
- If the hotel has a small rooftop terrace, take a five-minute breather there for a quick private toast.
Funicular up and exploring Ljubljana Castle
Take the funicular or walk the romantic path up to Ljubljana Castle. Wander the fortress courtyards, ramparts and viewpoints — ideal for golden-hour photos before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Time your ascent to arrive about 60–90 minutes before sunset for softer light and fewer tour groups.
- Walk the ramparts together — the viewpoints over Ljubljana make a memorable, private photo backdrop.
- Bring a light layer: windy on the castle terraces even in May, so a shawl or thin jacket keeps the moment comfortable.
Sunset-special: Dinner at Restavracija Strelec (Ljubljana Castle)
A romantic, award-winning castle restaurant with castle-terrace views. Reserve a table for sunset to pair gourmet Slovenian-inspired cuisine with the city glowing beneath you — a signature intimate moment.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a terrace or window table in advance and request a table with castle- and city-view for an unforgettable sunset.
- Mention any special occasion when booking — the staff are attentive and small gestures (a shared dessert) make it extra romantic.
- Pair a tasting menu with local wines; the sommelier can suggest lighter, aromatic wines that complement spring dishes and conversation.
Nightcap: Rooftop cocktails at Nebotičnik
End the evening with cocktails and panoramic city lights from Nebotičnik's rooftop — a cozy, slightly glamorous spot perfect for a private toast.
Tips from local experts:
- Head for the rooftop terrace just after dinner; in May the rooftop is pleasantly warm and less crowded late evening.
- Ask the bartender to make a custom spritz or a light signature cocktail — great for sipping while you lean close and talk.
- If you prefer a quieter spot, request a small table on the terrace edge overlooking the old town rather than the central bar area.
Day 2
A relaxed second day: sweet breakfast, a fragrant park walk, leisurely museum time, a restorative couple's spa in the afternoon, then wine-focused dinner to close your romantic stay.
Breakfast at Julija — cozy start
Begin with a relaxed breakfast in a charming old-town eatery known for fresh ingredients and intimate seating — a comforting, slow morning together.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a corner table if possible for a private, snug breakfast conversation.
- Share a sweet and a savory plate so you can sample more and feed each other little bites.
- Order a glass of sparkling wine if you want a celebratory start to your second day — spring fruits pair nicely.
Tivoli Park romantic stroll and quiet picnic spots
Wander hand-in-hand through Ljubljana's largest park, discover tucked-away benches and the landscaped Tivoli paths — a perfect springtime nature break.
Tips from local experts:
- Head toward the Jakopič Promenade for quieter lanes lined with linden trees — great for shaded walks in May.
- Bring a small picnic blanket (or ask a café for takeaway pastries) to enjoy a private moment by one of the park's ponds.
- Pause at Tivoli Mansion's gardens for a photo or a short shared reading of a postcard as a keepsake moment.
Leisure lunch at Monstera Bistro
A light, modern bistro experience with seasonal dishes made for sharing — relaxed enough to linger and plan the afternoon spa.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a tasting-style lunch or to share several small plates for an intimate, interactive meal.
- Reserve a table in advance; their cozy interior is great for couples who prefer a quiet corner.
- Request local wine pairings by the glass for a gentle tasting without committing to a full bottle midday.
Museum of Modern Art (Moderna galerija) — quiet cultural hour
Slowly explore select modern art exhibits — choose 2–3 galleries to keep the visit intimate and reflective rather than rushed.
Tips from local experts:
- Focus on one temporary exhibit and one permanent collection to keep the visit unhurried and meaningful.
- Sit together in a quiet gallery corner to absorb a single artwork — a gentle shared experience different from sightseeing.
- Check gallery opening times and temporary show highlights in advance; museum cafés are nice for a short rest afterward.
Couple's spa experience at Grand Hotel Union (Wellness Senses)
Two-hour restorative spa session designed for couples: massages or shared wellness treatments, followed by relaxation in calm facilities — a dedicated 'special moment' to reconnect.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a couples' treatment in advance and confirm a private room for maximum intimacy.
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to enjoy relaxation lounges together and to avoid feeling rushed.
- Choose aromatic, lighter massages for spring — discuss pressure preferences with therapists to keep the experience soothing and aligned.
Dinner with wine at D'Vino Wine Bar — intimate evening
Finish your stay with an intimate wine-focused dinner at a cozy, well-curated wine bar — perfect for lingering conversation and local wine discoveries.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quieter table near the back for private conversation and to focus on the wine tasting experience.
- Ask the sommelier for a local wine flight to taste Slovenia's regional varieties — share the flight so you can compare favorites.
- Order a few small plates to share (cheese, charcuterie, seasonal tapas) so the meal stays relaxed and interactive.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 6 |
| Total Activities | 14 |
| Total Places | 14 |
| Activities Types | Restaurant, Attraction, Meal, Outdoor, Hotel, Nightlife, Culture, Experience |
