15 Essential Apps for Exploring Ljubljana Like a Local

Ljubljana, Slovenia’s enchanting capital, is a city that perfectly combines rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant modern culture. Whether you’re here for a short city break or planning to explore the surrounding countryside, having the right tools at your fingertips can make your visit even more enjoyable. Thankfully, Ljubljana is a tech-friendly city, and there are plenty of apps to help you navigate, discover hidden gems, and enjoy local experiences to the fullest.

From bike-sharing and hiking apps to tools for finding discounted meals and insider tips from locals, these apps cover everything you need for a seamless stay. Whether you’re strolling through the Old Town, hopping on a bus, or planning a day trip, this curated list ensures you’ll have all the essential resources to explore Ljubljana like a local. Let’s dive in!

Essential travel apps for navigating and exploring Ljubljana as a tourist

Here’s a curated list of essential apps divided into helpful categories: Transportation, Convenience, and Tourism & Exploration. Each app ensures you’ll navigate the city like a local, discover its hidden gems, and make the most of your stay.

1. Transportation Apps: Move Around Like a Local

1.1  Ljubljana by Urbana (Public Transport)

This app is a must-have for navigating Ljubljana’s public transport system. It allows you to check bus schedules, routes, and nearby stops. The buses are frequent, efficient, and an easy way to explore the city. However, you don’t actually need this app to pay for rides. Simply tap your Visa or Mastercard on the reader when boarding.

    • Why You Need It: Check live bus schedules and routes to get around effortlessly.
    • Download: Android | iOS

1.2  BicikeLJ (Bike Sharing)

Ljubljana is incredibly bike-friendly, and BicikeLJ is the city’s affordable bike-sharing system. For just 1€/day, you can rent bikes from numerous stations across the city. The first hour of each ride is free, so it’s perfect for short trips. The app shows you station locations, bike availability, and docking spots.

    • Why You Need It: Eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and perfect for exploring Ljubljana’s flat streets.
    • Download: Android | iOS

1.3 Taxi Metro Ljubljana (Taxi App)

When public transport isn’t convenient, Taxi Metro Ljubljana is the best option for booking a taxi. It’s reliable, and fares are transparent. The app allows you to book rides, estimate costs, and track your driver’s arrival in real-time.

    • Why You Need It: A dependable alternative for longer trips or late-night rides.
    • Download: Android | iOS

1.4 Bolt (For Electric Scooters)

While Bolt doesn’t offer ride-hailing services in Ljubljana, you can use the app to rent electric scooters. Scooting is a fun and fast way to navigate the city center, especially for shorter distances. Just unlock a scooter through the app and enjoy the ride.

    • Why You Need It: Perfect for zipping around town without breaking a sweat.
    • Download: Android | iOS

1.5 Avant2Go (Car Sharing)

Access a fleet of 100% electric vehicles available 24/7. Reserve cars via the app and enjoy eco-friendly rides around Ljubljana.

    • Why You Need It: Flexible and sustainable car rental without ownership hassles.
    • Download: Android | iOS

1.6 Prevoz.org (Carpooling)

Available as both an app and a website, this carpooling platform is a favorite among Slovenians. Locals use it to travel between towns and share costs. Use it for budget-friendly day trips to places like Lake Bled or Piran.

    • Why You Need It: Cheap, social travel for exploring beyond Ljubljana.
    • Access: Website | Android | iOS
View of Ljubljana city center with the Ljubljanica River, Triple Bridge, and colorful historic buildings

2. Tourism & Exploration Apps: Discover Ljubljana’s Hidden Gems

2.1 Spotted by Locals

Find local-recommended spots, from hidden cafés to lesser-known attractions. Perfect for travelers who want an authentic experience.

    • Why You Need It: Insider tips from Ljubljana residents.
    • Download: Android | iOS

2.2 Trailforks (Hiking & Outdoor Adventures)

Explore Slovenia’s stunning trails with Trailforks. It offers detailed maps, reviews, and difficulty levels for hikes like Šmarna Gora.

    • Why You Need It: Plan your outdoor adventures with confidence.
    • Download: Website

2.4 Slovenia Outdoor (Hiking & Adventure App)

Slovenia Outdoor is the ultimate app for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the natural beauty of Slovenia. Whether you’re looking for hiking trails, biking routes, or climbing opportunities, this app provides detailed maps, trail descriptions, elevation profiles, and user reviews. It also highlights family-friendly routes and key points of interest along the way.

    • Why You Need It: Perfect for planning outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and climbing in Ljubljana and beyond.
    • Download: Website |  Android | iOS

3. Convenience Apps: Make Your Trip Easy

3.1 Too Good To Go (Discounted Meals)

Enjoy affordable, surplus food from restaurants and bakeries while reducing food waste. Great for budget-conscious travelers!

    • Why You Need It: Cheap meals with a sustainability twist.
    • Download: Android | iOS

3.2  TheFork (Restaurant Reservations)

Discover top restaurants, book tables, and even snag discounts with this app.

    • Why You Need It: Hassle-free dining experiences.
    • Download: Android | iOS

Ljubljana is a city that’s easy to explore but even easier with the right tools. From public transport apps like Ljubljana by Urbana to hiking planners like Slovenia Outdoor, these apps cover all the essentials for navigating the city, finding hidden gems, and making your trip stress-free.

Want to make your visit even better? Check out more useful articles on our website, including:

These guides are packed with insider tips to help you experience the very best of Ljubljana. Happy exploring! 😊