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Ljubljana has been actively present on the European conference map for over thirty years, but is still perceived as a relatively new destination. History would prove that wrong, since in 1821 the city was the stage for one of the earliest proper congresses in Europe - the Congress of the Holy Alliance. This gathered for several weeks powerful sovereigns of the time to discuss the new political map of Europe after Napoleon's downfall. Several city streets as well as the central, newly refurbished Congress Square, bear witness with their names to this event.
The choice and variety of meeting facilities in the Slovene capital is ample, starting with the two largest convention venues in the country - Cankarjev dom Cultural and Congress Centre (the pioneer on the scene) and the Ljubljana Exhibition and Convention Centre - GR. Both are well geared and experienced to welcome events with up to 2,200 delegates in plenary seating, which is also reflected in their reference lists of past international congresses and future ones confirmed up to the year 2016. Several convention and seminar hotels, ranging from small design and boutique hotels to more spacious historic or modern properties (Grand Hotel Union, Mons Hotel, Austria Trend Hotel Ljubljana, Lev Hotel, Hotel Slon Best Western Premier, Cubo Hotel, Antique Palace Hotel, City Hotel, M Hotel, etc.) complement the two congress centres. The Union is the second largest convention hotel in Slovenia, with a maximum 800 seats in plenary. The city additionally features an array of special event venues providing attractive settings both for informal events or those with a feel of exclusivity. The most privileged spot is the Ljubljana Castle, which sits on a hilltop overlooking the Old Town. Several museums, galleries and other cultural institutions can also lend a touch of elegance to special functions. Inventive caterers take a pleasure in creating attractive culinary journeys across the Slovenian gastronomy, based on fresh local ingredients.
Ljubljana is often chosen as the destination for scientific events due to its knowledge and scientific base. The Ljubljana University, enrolling 60,000 students, together with a host of scientific and research institutes and the Ljubljana Technology Park, generate many active or potential new members in various international associations or professional networks. Also due to the city's historic, geographical and political position as the gateway to the SEE markets, event organisers can expect attracting new members / delegates from this basin, as well as prospective business initiatives.
The meeting industry providers in Slovenia have been standardised by the national convention bureau, which is also valid for all the major suppliers in Ljubljana. Clients can therefore rely on the support of highly experienced and professional local DMC and PCO companies at any planning stage.
Ljubljana's compact size, which allows walking distances from a number of hotels to the main meeting or function venues, is one of its advantages. The city is also large enough to provide all the services that even a major meeting may require and, as an elegant lounge, small enough to make the delegates feel at home during their stay.
Moreover, the capital represents an ideal departure point to quickly reach many of Slovenia's attractions, including several ideal settings for incentive programmes or outdoor events.
At less than two hours' flight and with good daily connections from the major European hubs, Ljubljana is easily accessible; its international airport is also conveniently close - just 25 km from downtown.
You are welcome to discover and experience our cosy and open-minded city worth of your attention and consider bringing your next event to "A Cool Capital for Great Meetings!".

www.visitljubljana.si

The Ljubljana Tourism / Convention Bureau is pleased to assist Meeting Planners interested in the destination with its product knowledge and neutral, objective role, aimed at representing all relevant suppliers. A one-stop shop for Ljubljana that is able to assist a Client in identifying the most suitable solution for an event. As a non-profit entity, its services are free of charge. The official tourism website, www.visitljubljana.si/meetings, also contains a dedicated Meeting Planners' section.