From Prešeren Square to the Dragon Bridge
The Dragon Bridge (Zmajski most) is one of Ljubljana’s most photographed sights, and it is an easy walk from Prešeren Square along the river. This page gives the walking route and tells you why the dragons are there.
- Walk time
- About 10–15 minutes at a stroll
- Direction
- South-east, along the Ljubljanica
- Bridge built
- 1901 (opened as the Jubilee Bridge)
- Famous for
- Four dragon statues at the corners
- Surface
- Flat, paved, step-free
- Continue to
- Central Market, old town, the castle funicular
The walking route
- From the square, cross the Triple Bridge to the left bank.
- Turn south-east along the riverside promenade (nabrežje).
- Stay on the water side; the Dragon Bridge appears after a few minutes.
- The route is flat and obvious — you are following the river.
The bridge itself
The Dragon Bridge was completed in 1901 to mark the 40th jubilee of Emperor Franz Joseph, which is why it was first called the Jubilee Bridge. It is one of the city’s finest examples of early reinforced-concrete engineering dressed in Secession ornament.
The four dragon statues at the corners have become the symbol of Ljubljana. Local lore says the dragons wag their tails when a virgin crosses — a story told to every visiting child.
What to do after
Past the bridge you reach the open-air Central Market and, a little further, the old town. It pairs naturally with the market walk and the river-bridges loop.
Frequently asked questions
How far is the Dragon Bridge from Prešeren Square?
About 10–15 minutes on foot along the riverside, following the Ljubljanica south-east. The route is flat and signposted by the water.
Why are there dragons?
The dragon became Ljubljana’s heraldic symbol in legend (the city was said to be guarded by a dragon), and the 1901 bridge placed four dragon statues at its corners. They are now the city’s best-known image.
Is the walk step-free?
Yes. From the square across the Triple Bridge and along the promenade to the Dragon Bridge is flat, paved and step-free.
Sources: Visit Ljubljana, City heritage register. Route checked October 2026.