Tallest building in Ljubljana
When construction was completed way back in 1933, Nebotičnik (which means skyscraper in Slovene) was once the tallest building in Ljubljana and the whole of Yugoslavia. Therefore, It was the place to get the best view of Ljubljana. However, its reign as tallest building in Ljubljana came to an end in 1981, and it has since been pushed into 6th place.
While Nebotičnik has sadly lost its status as the tallest building in Slovenia, and to that end the Balkans, it is still the most beautiful looking high rise in town. More importantly though, it remains the place from which to get the best view of Ljubljana. The prime location of this building means it’s perfect for photographing the Ljubljana Castle, Krim Mountain and the Kamnik Alps.
Standing at 70 metres (230 ft) tall right on the main street, Slovenska Cesta, it still commands a presence, despite being dwarfed by the newly built Intercontinental hotel nearby.
Bigger is not always better
While the Intercontinental Hotel may be taller, it doesn’t command the location and view that Nebotičnik does. There is a rooftop cafe, and I went up there myself to check it out. The view from Intercontinental is uninspiring to say the least. So, it just goes to show that size doesn’t always matter.
The location of Nebotičnik, right in the heart of town and looking directly on to the Ljubljana Castle, and down to the centre square (Preseren Sq) and the famous Triple Bridge (Tromostovje), the perspective you get beats its giant neighbour hands down.
Rooftop terrace cafe view
What’s more, there is a rooftop cafe which not only boasts a large terrace, but unlike the Intercontinental the terrace at Nebotičnik goes right around the building. This affords you panoramic views of the centre to the east, Trnovo and Mount Krim to the south, Tivoli park to the west and the Kamnik Alps mountains to the north.
And it’s actually just high enough to get the perfect angle of view for photos.
Nebotičnik sits right in the heart of town and looks directly on to the Ljubljana Castle, down to the centre square (Preseren Sq) and the famous Triple Bridge (Tromostovje). The perspective you get beats it’s taller neighbour hands down.
Spiral staircases
Inside the building you will also find two interesting spiral staircases to photograph. The main one starts at the bottom entrance and goes up multiple flights. The other is a small one going up three flights between the rooftop cafe and restaurant.
How to get there
Entrance to the building is down the side street just off Slovenska Cesta; next to the bookshop on the corner. In the lobby you will see three lifts, the left two are for the cafe and restaurant up top. The right is for the private residents.
You can take either lift, but only one will take to the top floor and the cafe. If you get in the other one, don’t worry. It will take you to the level below and you just walk up one flight of stairs just as you exit the lift.
Grab a coffee and setup your tripod
The cafe staff are well used to photographers, so you’ll have no problem setting up a tripod. Of course, be respectful and try to do it without getting in anybody’s way.
And the coffee is great here.
Enjoy, and happy snapping.
Watch my video
Suggested accommodation in Ljubljana
Grand Hotel Union: Right in the heart of the city, a stone’s throw from Preseren Square. This four star hotel has everything you need, including a business centre and underground parking.
B&B Hotel Park: The three star Hotel Park is also close to the centre. It is located in a historically protected building and was partially refurbished in 2017.
Best Western Hostel Slon: Ideally located on the main street, Slovenska Cesta, this four star hotel has a fitness centre, bar, garden and free WiFi, and is 600 metres from Ljubljana Castle and 90 metres from Ljubljana City Theatre.
Intercontinental: This five star hotel offers superb accommodation and also a great view from its rooftop cafe.
Ljubljana Resort Hotel and Camping: This resort lies on the outskirts of Ljubljana but just a 10 minute drive to the centre and also well connected by the public bus. As well as a hotel there is also a campsite and a Laguna pool complex with over 60 water effects, Ljubljana Resort is set in a 7-hectare big park.
