The Slovenian capital Ljubljana has been named Europe’s Best Creative City Destination for 2026. The title was awarded at the 13th Creative Tourism Awards, where the city competed against 223 candidates from 28 countries. The international jury praised Ljubljana for integrating creativity into its identity, tourism strategy and long-term urban development. According to the organisers, the city stands out for its close collaboration with local artists and creative professionals, who help shape its tourism offering and cultural life.
“The award will increase the visibility and sustainability of creative tourism in Ljubljana, and create culturally rich experiences for visitors,” said Simeon Gönc from Visit Ljubljana.
The Creative Tourism Awards recognise destinations that place creativity at the centre of their tourism strategy. Judges look at how cities involve local communities, support cultural initiatives and offer visitors participatory experiences. Ljubljana impressed the jury with its vibrant creative sector, which includes artists, designers, architects, musicians and craftspeople. Their work helps shape the atmosphere of the city and contributes to its quality of life for both residents and travellers.
Creativity is visible in the way visitors can experience the city. One example is Center Rog, a creative hub located in a former bicycle factory near the Ljubljanica River. Instead of becoming a traditional museum, the building was transformed into a public space for crafts and design. Visitors can join hands-on workshops and learn traditional skills from experienced artisans working in the studios.
Another major highlight is LUV Fest, a cultural event that celebrates love, art and creativity across the city. During the festival, Ljubljana hosts concerts, theatre and opera performances, dance shows, exhibitions and workshops. Streets, squares and public spaces become stages for artistic installations and cultural events. The programme also includes themed walks and social gatherings that connect visitors with the city’s creative community.
Beyond specific events, Ljubljana is known for its cultural districts, which are neighbourhoods focused on art and creativity. Areas such as Šiška and Soteska host galleries, studios and festivals throughout the year. These districts help spread tourism beyond the historic centre and allow visitors to explore the city’s creative life in different neighbourhoods. Many of them combine art spaces with cafés, workshops and small venues where local creators present their work. This approach gives travellers a more authentic experience of the city and its everyday culture.
Ljubljana’s creativity also extends to urban planning and sustainable living. The city has prioritised pedestrians and cyclists over motorised traffic for over a decade, creating one of Europe’s most liveable capitals. Its 17-hectare pedestrian zone, extensive cycle network, and bike-sharing programme BicikeLJ make it easy for residents and visitors to explore the city in a green, active way. Measures like the closure of Slovenska cesta to cars, the addition of over 10,000 bicycle parking spaces, and regular cycling events have reduced carbon emissions and noise, while making public spaces more inviting and vibrant.
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While creativity is at the heart of the city’s tourism strategy, Ljubljana also offers many classic attractions. The historic Old Town is located along the Ljubljanica River and is known for its colourful buildings, lively cafés and picturesque bridges. One of the most famous landmarks is the Dragon Bridge, decorated with four dragon statues that have become a symbol of the city. Visitors can also walk through squares and streets filled with baroque and medieval architecture, which gives the centre its distinctive atmosphere.
Nature is also never far away in Ljubljana. Tivoli Park, the largest green space in the city, offers wide walking paths, gardens and forested hills close to the centre. The park is part of a protected landscape area and is popular with locals who come here to relax, exercise or enjoy the outdoors. Its blend of nature and art installations reflects the same balance between culture and lifestyle that helped Ljubljana earn the title of Europe’s most creative city for 2026.
