Ljubljana's public markets add to the overall charm of the city. These open-air markets, which are situated in the Vodnikov Trg, complement the city's easy and laid-back air. They are rich in colours and smells and are a major attraction for those looking for a good bargain. They also have some examples of spectacular architecture, such as Plecnik's colonnade, which makes them a favoured attraction even among those who prefer not to shop.
Čopova Street, in the Old Town, is lined with small shops and is an ideal location for a stroll, regardless of what you purchase.
Full of stylish shops and cafes, you will love shopping in Ljubljana! Our Ljubljana Shopping Guide below tells you what to shop for and where to find the best bargains. The shopping streets of Ljubljana are full of street cafes and Ljubljana restaurants, which are ideally placed for taking a break whilst shopping. Our Slovenia Shopping Guide provides more general information on shopping throughout the country.
Ljubljana Shopping Guide
Most of the shops in Ljubljana have relocated from the city centre to the BTC City Shopping District, which is located on the northern edge of Ljubljana. There are still some famous departmental stores, such as Maximarket and Nama in the city centre. Čopova Street, in the Old Town, is lined with small shops and is an ideal location for a stroll, regardless of what you purchase.
The Central Market
Ljubljana's Central Market, which comprises of the open-air market at Vodnikov Trg, the covered market at Pogacarjev Trg and Plecnik's arcade, is the city's main commercial area. The Central Market includes several underground areas as well as a grand flower shop. Within these two blocks of commercial paradise, you can find a wide variety of goods, including natural and local food products, art and handicrafts, souvenirs, flowers and some spectacular bargains. The market is open from 8 am to 6 pm in summers and from 8 am to 4 pm in winters, from Monday to Saturday. The best time to visit the central market in Ljubljana is Saturday morning.
The colonnade of Plecnik market includes large semicircular windows and boasts of beautiful stone façade. Within this architectural wonder, you will find stalls selling all manner of food and dairy products, including vegetables, fruit and all kinds of meat, cheeses and spices. A wide variety of traditional art and craft products as well as hand-made blankets and baskets are also available. True to its reputation of being the one-stop-shop for all needs, one can also buy souvenirs and ornamental plants here. If you get tired with all the Ljubljana shopping opportunities, this place also offers the best authentic Slovenian delicacies that serve as ideal refreshments. These include a variety of cheeses, oils and home-made breads, Potica cake, Karst prosciutto and horse pate.
The Antique & Flea Market
On Sunday mornings, a stroll to the flea market, which extends from Triple Bridge to Cobblers' Bridge in Old Town and continues along the river embankment, is the ideal way to relax and find some great bargains. However, do keep in mind that the market opens at 8 am and closes by 2 pm. The flea market is the perfect place to shop in Ljubljana for antiques, art, furniture and bric-a-brac. You can even lay your hands on some exclusive memorabilia from the former Yugoslav Republic such as banknotes, coins, pins, medals and uniforms. If you'd rather not shop, you can find a comfortable spot at any of the several riverside cafes and watch all the bustle and activity from a distance.
Maximarket
Maximarket is situated in a building that dates back to the socialist era and is the ideal place to shop for stationery, perfumes, clothing, domestic appliances and textiles. Although the prices are slightly higher than in other markets, there is a vast selection for your perusal. The basement of the building contains Ljubljana's largest supermarket, an underground mall and the ticket office for the Cankarjev Dom. As with almost all shopping areas in Ljubljana, this place too boasts of several eateries.
