Ljubljana

With a dazzling hilltop castle as her crown and the emerald-green Ljubljanica River at her feet, Ljubljana is a princess in size (petite). But her pint size conceals a wealth of culture, sights, activities and good old-fashioned fun that would be the envy of a city twice her extent. And best of all, everything is within such easy reach – a mere stroll or cycle away.

Ljubljana is one of Europe’s smallest cities – two million people live in Slovenia, and just 292,000 in the capital. It’s a place which feels surprisingly ahead of its time, thanks to a recently pedestrianised centre and a fleet of electric jeeps which will whisk you around for free.

Prešeren Square is the logical (and spectacular) starting point for all explorations of Ljubljana. It’s surrounded by several colourful mansions, like the Mayerjeva palača (Mayor’s Palace), an impossibly grand building which now houses a pharmacy.

Another architectural gem is the Triple Bridge –a cluster of three bridges spanning the Ljubljanica River and connecting modern Ljubljana with the historic centre.

One place you cannot miss when visiting Ljubljana is Lake Bled. With its gorgeous scenery and it is one of the highlights in Slovenia.