Ivan Mrak, the famous playwright son of the family that founded Hotel Mrak, was a Bohemian artistic soul. Ljubljana, in turn, was and remains a great place for kindred spirits. It is with this vibe in mind that the Hotel Mrak was renovated, and so it makes sense to set out from the hotel to enjoy Bohemian day around the city.
The image of an artist conjures up a studio, but also passionate debates about ideas and creativity held at cafes during breaks from work. Ljubljana is full of cafes where today’s artists, writers, students, and thinkers can be found exchanging ideas and drinking excellent coffee. You can pick up a free map outlining specialty coffee shops and art museums. One such café is in the basement of the City Museum, just a few steps away from Hotel Mrak.
After indulging in some caffeine, explore the streets that evoke a réaction poétique, as the French would describe it. Trubar Street resembles a miniature Greenwich Village, brimming with cafes, street art, galleries, antique shops, and an overall funky ambiance. Locksmith Street stands out as a unique artistic endeavor, transformed into a work of art by sculptor Jakov Brdar, titled “Faces” in reference to a small canal adorned with 700 expressive faces.
As the day unfolds, make time for arts and entertainment. For a glimpse into Slovenian Bohemian life, visit Cukrarna situated in an old sugar refinery. Initially a residence for notable Slovenian modernist writers, the refurbished space now serves as a contemporary art gallery, featuring visual arts, intermedia, performances, and music. Additionally, it houses a noteworthy coffee shop.
A stroll along the Ljubljanica River guides you back to the old town, offering a charming setting for an enjoyable evening. The riverbanks boast an array of wine bars, cafes, bars, and restaurants catering to diverse tastes. Don’t forget to savor a glass of excellent Slovenian wine; a personal favorite is the indigenous white variety called Rebula, historically favored by royalty yet reasonably priced—a perfect toast to Bohemian Ljubljana!
