Ask a concierge: Ljubljana, Slovenia  

At the InterContinental Ljubljana, concierge Ana Černe guides visitors to the best things to do and see in Slovenia’s capital and largest city. Here she offers advice for business travelers.

What’s the most important thing for business travelers to pack when they’re heading to your city?

Bring a pair of comfortable shoes. Most of the city center is closed to traffic, so it’s easier to walk to your destination. Taxis will get you around, too, but they’ll drop you off a few minutes’ walk from the central square.

What are your top restaurant recommendations for a business lunch or dinner?

Restaurant AS (Čopova ulica 5a; Ph: +386 (0)1 425 88 22), with its light Mediterranean cuisine, is perfect for a business lunch. The rooftop terrace is shaded by a mystical old tree that grows in the middle of the restaurant. Restaurant Valvas’or (Stari trg 7; Ph: +386 (0)1 425 04 55) offers a pleasant mix of Slovenian and Mediterranean cuisine. It’s located in the oldest and most charming part of the city. If you prefer a more casual dining experience, visit one of the oldest restaurants in Ljubljana, Restaurant Operna klet (Župančičeva 2; Ph: +386 (0)1 252 70 03). The menu is always changing because the chef only orders the freshest ingredients. The phenomenal fish dishes are paired with exquisite local wine. Be sure to reserve a table in all of these restaurants; they are always busy.

What’s one thing that always surprises visitors about your city?

Guests are always surprised by how small our capital is and how many young people are around. Lots of other interesting little things surprise our guests, too—for example, the name Ljubljana roughly translates to “the loved one.”

If business travelers only have a few hours for leisure, what must they see in your city?

A walk along Jakopič Promenade is always a good experience. Go to Prešeren Square in the city center and admire the Triple Bridge. Visit the Ljubljana Castle by funicular or one of the many paths that go to the top. It should not take you more than 20 minutes, and the view from the tower is amazing. On clear days you can even see the Julian Alps. For an evening drink, go to Cankarjevo nabrežje with its many cafés and bars; it’s an ideal place to feel the vibe of the city.

What’s the best option for outdoor exercise in your city?

Tivoli Park is only a few hundred meters from our hotel, and a lot of locals use it to jog or just to stroll among the ancient trees. If you want to have more peace and quiet, walk up Castle Hill and look down upon Ljubljana.

Business know-how Concierge Ana Černe’s top tips for getting business right in Ljubljana: Plan ahead for a walk to your meetings; a big part of the city center is closed for traffic, so you will need to go at least part of the way on foot. A lot of informal business talks happen in cafés. It’s a good way to get to know your partners in a more relaxed atmosphere. Check with local colleagues and dress appropriately for the occasion; meetings often are informal.