Things To Do
in Medvode

Medvode is a small town just north of Ljubljana along the Sava River, offering a calm base for exploring central Slovenia. Its leafy streets, riverside walks, and historic bridges give it a relaxed, rural charm. From Medvode, it’s easy to reach Ljubljana's cultural sites and the nearby Alps for day trips.

The town is popular with locals and visitors seeking outdoor trails, green spaces, and easy access to the capital.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of Medvode
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets of Medvode, admiring the architecture and local shops. Stop by the historical St. Andrew's Church to appreciate its serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a traditional Slovenian restaurant, where you can taste regional specialties. Spend your afternoon hiking along the beautiful trails nearby, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and rivers. Take your time to explore the lush landscape and capture stunning photographs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the Sava River for a picturesque picnic. Relish the stunning colors of the sky while enjoying locally sourced cheese and wine. Conclude your day with a relaxing stroll along the riverbank, watching the stars come out.

day 2
Visit to Ljubljana
morning
:

Travel to Ljubljana, the capital city, where you can start your day at the vibrant Central Market. Explore the diverse stalls selling fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies. Don't forget to indulge in a traditional Slovenian breakfast at one of the nearby cafés.

afternoon
:

Take a guided walking tour of Ljubljana’s picturesque old town, visiting iconic sights like Ljubljana Castle and the Triple Bridge. Have lunch at a riverside restaurant, appreciating the beautiful ambiance of the city. Afterward, visit the National Gallery to immerse yourself in Slovenian art and culture.

evening
:

As evening falls, enjoy a delightful dinner in the heart of the city, choosing from a plethora of international and local cuisine. Stroll along the Ljubljanica River, marvelling at the illuminated buildings and lively atmosphere. Wrap up with a drink at a rooftop bar, soaking in the panoramic views of Ljubljana.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🚇Single-ride transit ticket$2-3
Coffee$3-5
🧭Museum entry or local attractions$5-12
🍷Beer or wine by the glass$4-7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Easy access to Ljubljana and nature
  • Quiet, scenic town with friendly locals
  • Great base for day trips to the Alps
  • Relaxed pace and affordability
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Smaller dining scene in town center
  • Weather can be unpredictable in shoulder seasons
  • Public transport options are decent but less frequent than in a big city
  • "Dober dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Kje je železniška postaja?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Prosimo" - Please
  • "Ali govorite angleško?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Lahko dobim meni?" - Can I get the menu?
  • "Kaj priporočate?" - What do you recommend?

Places to Visit in Medvode

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Bridge over the Sava

A classic stone bridge with reflections on the water, ideal during golden hour.

Medvode Town Square and Church

Historic square framed by traditional houses and the local church; perfect for street photography.

Sava River Embankment

Expansive river views with boats and greenery, great for sunrise or sunset shots.

Hills Above Medvode

Forest paths and viewpoints offering sweeping panoramas of the valley.

Culinary Guide

Food in Medvode

Slovenian cuisine is hearty and seasonal, rooted in rural traditions and fresh local produce. In Medvode you’ll find traditional taverns alongside modern cafes where simple flavors shine.

Medvode Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kranjska klobasa

A smoked carni sausage typically served with sauerkraut, potatoes, or mustard.

Must-Try!

Jota

A thick bean and sauerkraut stew, a warming staple in cooler months.

Štruklji

Dumplings filled with fresh cheese or a savory herb filling, boiled or baked.

Potica

A rolled pastry with walnut, poppy seed, or other fillings, a classic Slovenian dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Medvode Local Market

Weekend farmers market with fresh produce, cheeses, breads and seasonal specialties.

Ljubljana Central Market

A short trip away; sample fresh fruit, artisanal bread, and street food under the colorful market stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Medvode experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with average highs in the 20s Celsius; winters are cold with occasional snow. Spring and autumn are mild, with changing foliage and pleasant outdoor conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greet and address

A polite greeting goes a long way; 'Dober dan' (Good day) or 'Živjo' (Hi) are common. Handshakes are typical in formal settings.

Punctuality

Be punctual for meetings and dining; promptness is appreciated.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites; speak softly in public spaces; tipping is appreciated after good service.

Safety Guide

Safety

Medvode is generally safe; practice standard travel precautions: keep valuables secure; be cautious near water and in forested areas after dark; emergency numbers 112 for police/ambulance/fire.

Tipping in Medvode

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is polite but not mandatory; 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants; rounding up is appreciated at cafes.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; some small shops may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with long daylight; occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; cooler evenings; ideal for walks and markets.

Winter

Cold with possible snow in the hills; shorter days; cozy indoor cafe moments and winter scenery.

Spring

Greens return, flowers bloom; great for outdoor activities and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Medvode at Night

Medvode has a relaxed nightlife scene with cozy bars and riverside cafes. For bigger nightlife, Ljubljana is a short train ride away with live music venues and late-night spots.

Hiking in Medvode

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail in the Kamnik foothills

Moderate day hike with forest paths and viewpoints just a short drive from Medvode.

Ridge walk above the Sava valley

Scenic ridge route offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding towns.

Airports

How to reach Medvode by plane.

Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)

Brnik Airport is about 20-30 minutes by car or shuttle from Medvode and offers connections to major European destinations.

Maribor Edvard Rusjan Airport (MBX)

A smaller airport in the northeast; a longer drive from Medvode but useful for some regional connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Medvode is quite walkable within the town center; riverside paths and compact streets make exploring on foot easy. For trips to the hills or Ljubljana, a short bus or train ride is convenient, offering flexibility without heavy traffic.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in Medvode, enjoying the town’s safety, parks, and easy access to schools and nature.

Commuters

A significant portion commute to Ljubljana for work, finding Medvode an affordable home base with quick access.

Students and young professionals

Small but active student and professional community benefiting from proximity to the capital.

Tourists

Visitors use Medvode as a calm starting point for day trips to Ljubljana and the Alps.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular sport in local clubs and youth programs; matches can be watched in nearby towns.

Cycling

Road cycling and mountain biking are common in the surrounding hills and along river routes.

Skiing and winter sports

In winter, access to nearby alpine resorts offers skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.

Transportation

Traffic

Medvode experiences light to moderate traffic, with the heaviest flows around Ljubljana during peak hours. Public transport—buses and a railway link to Ljubljana—offers reliable connections for travelers. If driving, expect occasional congestion on major routes during rush hours, but the town itself remains car-friendly with parking options in the center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Medvode.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian dishes; look for jota or štruklji with cheese fillings, fresh salads, and grilled vegetables. When in doubt, ask for a cheese-filled dish or vegetable medley.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in Medvode with local clinics and pharmacies. For more extensive services, Ljubljana has larger hospitals and specialized clinics. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for temporary national coverage where applicable.

Discover Slovenia

Read more in our Slovenia 2025 Travel Guide.

Slovenia Travel Guide