What makes Slovenian cities so green?

Take a walk in the streets of Slovenian cities which, with their application of advanced green practices, increase the quality of life of local residents and enrich the experience of their visitors.

Urban, but green nonetheless

Despite their small size, Slovenian towns and cities offer a multitude of cultural, architectural, and culinary experiences. What is more, their centres are usually located only a few minutes away from green meadows and lush forests. The interactive mix of urban and natural environments provides an excellent starting point for developing sustainable practices that improve air quality, reduce noise, and ensure the good health and well-being of residents. Numerous innovative projects in towns and cities promote Slovenia's green narrative and attract an increasing number of environmentally aware visitors.

Green principles of Slovenian cities

What is it that has left a green stamp on Slovenian towns and cities? Discover some of the common guidelines followed by an increasing number of Slovenian cities.

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Soft mobility

For cleaner air and less traffic noise, Slovenian cities are developing soft mobility. By introducing new cycling paths and footpaths, closing city centres to motor traffic, and modernising public passenger transport, they encourage their residents to use environmentally friendly means of getting around. Among the latter, electric car-sharing systems are becoming increasingly popular.

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Local food

The local food supply is of exceptional importance in Slovenia, and this is not only true for rural areas. Short distances between urban and rural areas enable residents to enjoy fresh organic produce from nearby farms every day. Because green cities provide numerous opportunities for urban gardening, many residents grow their own vegetables.

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Green spaces

One of the main advantages of Slovenian cities is the wealth of green spaces. The multitude of parks, forests, and natural riverbanks encourage residents and visitors to spend their free time actively, protect biodiversity, and reduce the carbon footprint of cities. It’s usually only a short stroll from urban centres to green surroundings.

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Clean environment

A clean environment is a healthy environment. Various projects are implemented in Slovenia to keep our cities clean and orderly. With a joint effort, we reduce the quantity of generated waste, look for ways to re-use waste, and protect the precious sources of drinking water.

Ljubljana – European Green Capital

In 2016, Ljubljana held the flattering title European Green Capital. This means that the city meets high environmental protection standards, sets high objectives for further sustainable development, and may serve as an example to other cities. The charming Slovenian capital is proud to implement a number of successful green practices.

The centre of Ljubljana is closed to motor traffic. Pedestrian zones cover a total of 12 hectares, which ranks the capital among the very best European cities in this respect.

Ljubljana has no less than 542 m² of public green space per capita. More than 46% of the city is covered by native forests, 75% of all surfaces are green, and 20% of surfaces are protected.

More than 3,500 trees were planted in Ljubljana in the last five years, and the city has been part of the Tree Cities of the World initiative since 2019.

Residents of Ljubljana have access to nine public garden areas and six orchards within the city limits. The Ljubljana Central Market, where you can buy healthy, locally produced food, is also very popular.

Ljubljana is a city of honey bees. It actively preserves the heritage of beekeeping and promotes the importance of honey bees for the survival of humankind. Honey plants grow on the roofs of several bus stops, while a late season mowing system has been introduced for city meadows.

One of the advantages of Ljubljana is its natural drinking water, which is not treated using technological processes. There are 44 public water fountains in the capital that you can find in the Tap Water Ljubljana app.

More than 300 km of developed cycling paths wind around the capital of Slovenia, while the BicikeLJ public bicycle rental system has an impressive 72 stations.

Ljubljana has the highest rate of waste sorting among all European capitals. In 2020, it amounted to 69%.

In the old city centre of Ljubljana, which is closed to traffic, the Kavalir electric car takes visitors around. Rides are free of charge. The Urban tourist train is also powered by electricity. There are more than 100 charging stations for electric vehicles throughout the city.

For years, the lively culinary market called Odprta Kuhna (Open Kitchen) has been ensuring that Fridays in the centre of the Slovenian capital are even more vibrant. In order to avoid generating unnecessary plastic waste, all meals and drinks are served in biodegradable containers.

Slovenian cities as role models for green orientation

In addition to the green capital Ljubljana, an increasing number of towns and cities in Slovenia are making an effort to follow green and sustainability guidelines. Each year a new city joins the winners of the national sustainability label Slovenia Green Destinations. Learn about some of the cities known for their green mindset.

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Feel the urban buzz on a bicycle

Residents of Slovenian towns and cities love to ride bicycles. The bicycle is the main means of transportation for an increasing number of people and urban areas are being developed accordingly. Visitors can also enjoy cycling in bicycle-friendly city centres. If you do not have a bicycle, you can rent one at numerous points. You can explore a town or city yourself or join guided tours on bicycles. If you are a long-distance cycling enthusiast, you can take a cycling tour between the three sustainable capitals or destinations along the Slovenia Green Capitals Route.

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Slovenian towns and cities with a green soul

Get to know Slovenian cities that have adopted sustainable development. Many of them have established public bicycle rental systems, encourage the use of public transportation, offer a wealth of green spaces, and promote local products and raw materials.

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Experiences that reveal the green soul of cities

Discovering cultural sights in an engaging and sustainable manner, actively exploring green corners of cities, and staying in cosy boutique accommodations will completely change your perception of city life.

Unique urban experiences

Historical buildings, monuments and other places of interest on the streets of Slovenian cities speak volumes about their colourful past. Local tourist guides will share with you the most interesting stories and take you around the picturesque cities on foot, by bicycle, or even on water. If you’re not in the mood for a usual tours, you can opt for a refreshingly different urban experience – there are many of these in Slovenia.

Unique urban experiences

Unique hotels with a boutique story

These are boutique hotels not only because the main sites and city buzz are within easy reach, but also because they tell various stories. Some of them awaken the romantic spirit of the past, while others inspire with their modern extravagance.

Summer outdoor playgrounds

A wide range of outdoor activities may also be enjoyed in towns and cities. The green parks are perfect for running, walking, or cycling. You can also climb a hill and be rewarded with a beautiful view. Various water experiences are also waiting to be enjoyed in towns and cities situated on rivers or by the sea.

Take your family around historic cities

Historic towns and cities are known for countless stories and legends that are well worth exploring. This is where characters from the past are brought back to life, and digitally oriented young people will have their enthusiasm fired by interactive experiences, fun selfies, and virtual trips into the past.

You don’t have to go far for a walk

Towns and cities have green oases where you can take a break and let your thoughts wander amidst nature’s bounty. You can also stroll along the most popular paths used by the locals. You’ll almost forget that you are actually in an urban environment.

Green Slovenia inspires sustainable holidays

Join us in our commitment to preserve a healthy and green environment, tradition, and the cultural landscape. When planning your holidays, look out for destinations, adventures and providers that are particularly committed to sustainability.

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City break? Of course!

You will find everything you need in Slovenian towns and cities – lively cultural events, delicious traditional and contemporary dishes with the local touch, and green havens when you feel like taking a quick break from the urban hustle and bustle.

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Unusual museums in Slovenia

Enter the world of Slovenia's unusual museum collections.

Green instructions for visiting Slovenia

Everything you need to know for a green and responsible visit to Slovenia.

Slovenia = a land of sustainable cuisine

Enjoy cuisine that is devoted to the local environment and people.

Galleries and museums

Museums and galleries in Slovenia – a treasure trove of art from prehistoric times until today.

Find your way out of Slovenia’s escape rooms

Enter a world of exciting adventures and find your way out of escape rooms.

Architectural sights

Discover Slovenia's greatest architectural treasures.

Stories from Slovenia

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What makes Slovenian cities so green?

Urban, but green nonetheless