Ljubljana Airport

Ljubljana Airport Review: What Travelers Need to Know

Dear travelers,

Slovenia is a hidden gem in Europe, and for most travelers, the adventure begins at Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU).  As the country’s main international airport, it combines convenience with charm, offering a smooth entry point into Slovenia. But Ljubljana Airport is just one of three key airports in the country, each serving a unique purpose and demographic. 

Booking.com

Airports in Slovenia: What to Know

Slovenia has three primary airports: Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, Maribor Edvard Rusjan Airport, and Portorož Airport. Ljubljana Airport is the busiest and best-equipped, connecting Slovenia to over 20 international destinations. Its facilities include modern lounges, dining options, and free WiFi. For travelers heading to the wine country or ski resorts near Maribor, Maribor Edvard Rusjan Airport is a smaller but strategic choice, especially during the winter season. Meanwhile, Portorož Airport is designed for private jets and small planes, mainly serving luxury travelers visiting Slovenia’s beautiful Adriatic coast.

Ljubljana Airport

Getting to and from Ljubljana Airport

One of Ljubljana Airport’s strengths is its excellent connectivity to the rest of Slovenia.  Since Ljubljana Airport is relatively small, all the main transport stations, such as bus stops, shuttle pick-up points, and taxi stands, are conveniently located just outside the terminal building. 

Buses offer a budget-friendly option, running every 30–60 minutes to Ljubljana’s city center for just €4–€5 (during the weekend, the tickets have a discount and they cost 1,30€). The ride takes about 45 minutes, providing a scenic preview of Slovenia’s green landscapes. 

Shared shuttle services are an affordable and convenient option for budget travelers or groups heading to or from Ljubljana Airport. Prices typically range from €9 to €15 per person, making it a cost-effective choice compared to private transfers. Advance booking is recommended, particularly during busy travel seasons, to ensure availability. Check the prices here.

For a quicker journey, taxis are available outside the arrivals terminal and cost around €25–€35.

Note: Bolt and Uber aren’t available in Ljubljana.

Alternatively, if you’re planning to explore Slovenia’s diverse attractions at your own pace, renting a car is a fantastic option. Major rental companies like Hertz and Sixt operate from the airport, making it easy to hit the road as soon as you land.

Business Lounge Ljubljana Airport

What to Expect at Ljubljana Airport

The airport may be small, but it’s important to arrive at Ljubljana Airport at least two hours before your flight, particularly during busy travel periods, to ensure a smooth experience. If you need to exchange money, there are currency exchange services available, though you’ll typically find better rates in the city. For convenience, Slovenia uses the euro, so travelers from the Eurozone won’t need to worry about exchanging currency at all.

Before the security check at Ljubljana Airport, you can grab a coffee or a snack at Lolita Coffee Shop. After passing through security, there’s one bistro available, offering coffee, sandwiches, and light snacks at mid-range prices.

Business Lounge Ljubljana Airport

For travelers flying business class or those looking to relax during a layover, the Business Lounge is a standout feature. Spanning over 390 m², it includes 230 m² indoors and 160 m² outdoors, featuring a viewing terrace with stunning views of the airport and the Julian Alps. Inside, the lounge provides complimentary snacks, drinks, a quiet workspace, and comfortable seating, accommodating up to 60 guests. 

Business Lounge Ljubljana

Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal, though it’s a good idea to download essential resources ahead of time, as busy periods can affect connection speeds.

For smokers, the airport offers designated smoking zone in both the Schengen and non-Schengen zones, located past the security checks.

Smoking zone Ljubljana Airport

Exploring Slovenia from Ljubljana Airport

One of the best things about Slovenia is its compact size, and Ljubljana Airport is ideally positioned to access its top destinations. A 30-minute drive will take you to Lake Bled. Ljubljana’s city center is even closer, just 20 minutes by car, offering a mix of historic architecture, cozy cafes, and lively markets. If you’re craving coastal vibes, head 90 minutes south to Piran, a Venetian-inspired town on the Adriatic coast. Meanwhile, adventure seekers can head to Postojna Cave, one of Europe’s largest karst cave systems, located about 50 minutes away.

Plan ahead, and get ready to explore one of Europe’s most underrated destinations!

Truly yours,

The Creation of Us