Ljubljana is an ideal destination for digital nomads, offering affordable living, fast internet, and a compact, walkable city center. Co-working spaces like Poligon Creative Centre and work-friendly cafes provide great environments for remote work. The city’s efficient public transport and bike-sharing system make getting around easy. With its vibrant expat community, networking events, and proximity to beautiful nature, Ljubljana strikes a perfect work-life balance. Its safe, eco-friendly atmosphere and rich cultural scene further enhance the appeal for long-term stays.
Nomad Score: 9/10 ・ Cost of living: $3500/month ・ Internet speed: 290 Mbps
▶ April1550 Boutique Hotel – Deluxe Queen Room
▶ Barbo Palace Apartments and Rooms – Two-Bedroom Apartment
▶ B&B Pod vrbo – Double Room with Balcony
▶ Gami Ex-Factory Lofts – Studio or Superior Apartment with Sauna
▶ B&B Vila Teslova – Deluxe Apartment
This guide will help you make the most of your time in Ljubljana as a digital nomad, offering a mix of productive work environments, cultural immersion, and outdoor experiences in one of Europe’s most charming cities:
1. Internet and Connectivity
- Wi-Fi: Ljubljana has reliable, high-speed internet across the city. Many cafes, public spaces, and accommodations offer free Wi-Fi. The city is well-equipped for remote workers, and most co-working spaces provide strong connections.
- Mobile Plans: SIM cards are available from providers like Telekom Slovenije, A1, and Telemach, with affordable data packages. Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased at convenience stores or kiosks, and the plans offer good 4G/5G coverage throughout Slovenia.
2. Co-working Spaces
Ljubljana offers a variety of modern co-working spaces, making it easy to find a productive work environment:
- Poligon Creative Centre: A popular co-working space for freelancers and creatives, offering events, workshops, and a vibrant community.
- Creative Workspace Tobačna: Known for its flexible workspaces and a strong sense of community, this space attracts both locals and international nomads.
- Kovačnica: A smaller co-working space located in the center, perfect for those looking for a quiet, focused atmosphere.
- ABC Hub: Located in BTC City, this co-working space is part of an innovation center, ideal for entrepreneurs and startups.
3. Cost of Living
- Accommodation: Ljubljana is more affordable than other European capitals. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center typically costs around €700–€1,200 per month. More affordable options are available in neighborhoods like Šiška or Bežigrad, where rent can be as low as €500.
- Food: Eating out is affordable, with meals at mid-range restaurants costing around €10–€20. Ljubljana’s central market offers fresh produce, and grocery stores like Mercator and Spar provide affordable food shopping options.
- Co-working: Monthly memberships at co-working spaces range from €100 to €250, depending on the space and its amenities.
4. Where to Stay
- Ljubljana City Center: Ideal for digital nomads who want to be close to cafes, co-working spaces, and the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
- Trnovo: A quiet, residential area near the city center, offering a relaxed atmosphere while still being close to key attractions.
- Šiška: A more affordable and up-and-coming area, popular with students and creatives, with easy access to public transport and local amenities.
- Bežigrad: Another affordable option, located slightly outside the city center, with good transport connections and green spaces.
5. Transportation
- Public Transport: Ljubljana has an efficient public transportation system, primarily based on buses. A Urbana card allows for easy access to buses throughout the city, with fares costing around €1.30 per ride.
- Bikes: Ljubljana is bike-friendly, and the Bicike(LJ) bike-sharing system is widely used. The city is compact, so cycling is an easy and sustainable way to get around.
- Walking: The city center is pedestrian-friendly, and most key attractions are within walking distance.
6. Work-Friendly Cafes
- TOZD: A popular cafe in the city center with good Wi-Fi, coffee, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for remote work.
- Stow Specialty Coffee Shop: Located near Ljubljana Castle, this cafe is known for its specialty coffee and quiet environment for working.
- Kavarna Rog: A modern space with good internet and plenty of seating, offering a creative vibe and a perfect spot for freelancers.
- Ziferblat: A unique “time cafe” where you pay for the time spent, offering a cozy environment for work or study sessions.
7. Visa and Legal Information
- Schengen Visa: Non-EU citizens can stay in Slovenia for up to 90 days within a 180-day period on a Schengen tourist visa. For longer stays, digital nomads can explore options like Slovenia’s Freelancer Visa, which allows remote workers to live in the country while working for non-Slovenian companies.
8. Networking and Community
Ljubljana’s startup scene is growing, and the city has a close-knit community of entrepreneurs and remote workers:
- Meetups: Use Meetup.com to find local events for entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and creatives. Regular meetups and workshops are held at places like Poligon Creative Centre.
- Expat Groups: Join Facebook groups like “Ljubljana Expats” or “Slovenia Digital Nomads” to connect with fellow remote workers and expats.
- Events: Check out co-working spaces like Poligon for networking events, workshops, and talks focused on entrepreneurship, freelancing, and the creative economy.
9. Local Attractions and Leisure
- Ljubljana Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the castle offers stunning views and historical exhibitions.
- Tivoli Park: The largest park in Ljubljana, perfect for work breaks, jogging, or cycling.
- Central Market: A vibrant market in the heart of the city where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food.
- Metelkova: A cultural hub and alternative art space, great for experiencing Ljubljana’s creative and underground scene.
10. Health and Safety
- Healthcare: Slovenia has a high-quality healthcare system. Non-EU residents should have travel health insurance or private insurance to cover their stay. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to healthcare.
- Safety: Ljubljana is a very safe city, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for solo travelers, but as with any city, it’s important to remain vigilant with your belongings in crowded places.
Bonus Tips
- Weather: Ljubljana has four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with snow in January and February, while summers are warm and ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures.
- Language: Slovenians generally speak good English, especially in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Slovenian phrases can be appreciated.
- Green City: Ljubljana is one of Europe’s greenest capitals, and you’ll find plenty of parks, outdoor cafes, and eco-friendly initiatives.