As summer sweeps through Europe by late June, travelers often gravitate towards the Mediterranean beaches. However, for those looking to escape the crowds and avoid soaring prices, Slovenia’s charming capital, Ljubljana, presents an ideal summer destination. This picturesque city features remarkable museums, enchanting architecture, and inviting cafés along the banks of the River Ljubljanica. June offers perfect warm temperatures in the mid to high twenties, making it an excellent time to enjoy the city’s lush hiking trails, vibrant open-air markets, and lively street performances associated with the annual Ljubljana Festival, running from June 20 to September 12.

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying just outside the cobblestone old town. A three-night stay at Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana, including round-trip flights from Gatwick with easyJet and an entrance ticket to Ljubljana Castle, is priced at £419 per person, departing on June 24. The package includes an under-seat cabin bag, with the option to add a 23kg suitcase for an additional £83 return. Taxi fares from the airport are approximately £30, but travelers can easily take the No 28 bus to Ruski car station, followed by a 15-minute walk to the hotel for only £3 (payment in cash on board; lju-airport.si).

The modern four-star hotel is situated three miles north of the city center but offers easy access to public transportation. A five-minute walk will lead you to Posta, where buses No 6 or 8 can take you to the old town for just £1. Alternatively, a taxi ride costs around £7. The rooms are stylish and spacious, featuring sleek designs, large bathrooms adorned with white tiles, and vibrant mustard yellow and olive-green accents. The hotel’s restaurant offers a generous buffet breakfast with regional specialties such as strudels, along with an à la carte dinner menu. Additionally, there’s a lounge available all day, serving burgers and craft beers from local Slovenian breweries, as well as an impressive spa that includes a large gym and sauna facilities with Turkish, Finnish, and infrared options.

For an introduction to the old town, join a complimentary walking tour offered twice daily at 11am and 3pm (details at ljubljanafreetour.com). A visit to the 16th-century hilltop Ljubljana Castle provides splendid views over the city’s rooftops and the surrounding mountains. The package includes an entrance ticket; however, visitors can choose to either pay for the glass-walled funicular ride or hike along the marked wooded paths instead (funicular ticket priced at £5 return; ljubljanskigrad.si). Afterward, stroll through the pedestrian-friendly cobbled streets of the old town, admiring the 19th-century wooden storefronts and the charming old market square, Stari trg. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Cathedral of St Nicholas and its striking pink marble interior (free entry) before visiting Plečnik House, the former residence of Slovenia’s renowned architect (entrance fee of £8; mgml.si).

Take advantage of the June sunshine by gathering picnic essentials at the Central Market (open Monday to Saturday) before heading to the expansive Tivoli Park, which features sprawling lawns and woodlands. From the western side of the park, access forested hiking trails leading to the Roznik and Siska hills, or opt for a stand-up paddleboard tour on the river for a unique view of the city’s heart (£50; bananaway.eu). Conclude your adventure with a local beer at the historic Union Brewery, which has been serving drinks since 160 years ago (from £3; union-experience.si).

What’s Included for Your £419 Per Person

• Round-trip flights from Gatwick to Ljubljana, departing June 24
• Admission ticket to Ljubljana Castle
• Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana

Interested in a more luxurious experience? Here are some premium options:

The £700 Getaway

If you prefer to stay closer to the city’s main attractions, consider the Antiq Palace Hotel and Spa, a beautifully restored 16th-century former diplomatic residence on one of Ljubljana’s most prestigious streets. This hotel features 16 rooms, including a two-bedroom apartment, showcasing original details like 300-year-old frescoes, elegant wooden floors, and high ceilings. Guests can enjoy a peaceful garden, a lounge, and a restaurant along with a wine cellar. The river is within a five-minute walk, with packages starting at £697 per person for three nights with breakfast (check firstchoice.co.uk for details).

The £1,300 Luxury Stay

The Grand Hotel Union Eurostars stands as Ljubljana’s most renowned hotel, having hosted dignitaries such as Queen Elizabeth II and the Dalai Lama. Located just a five-minute walk from the central square, Preserenov trg, this 1905 Art Nouveau building radiates historical charm, featuring a grand staircase, soaring windows, and beautiful parquet flooring. Guests can enjoy polished marble bathrooms and luxurious furnishings. The hotel also offers a shopping arcade, a spa, a rooftop pool providing stunning views of the castle, and a café that has served local cuisine and wines for over a century. Rates for three nights with breakfast start at £1,275 per person, including flights and a day trip to Miramare Castle in Italy (explore more at coxandkings.co.uk).