Ljubljana Urban region, Slovenia

 

General description

Ljubljana urban region (LUR) is a region with the biggest concentration of knowledge and creative potential in Slovenia as this is where the key state, scientific, research, educational and cultural institutions are based.

Due to the large number of companies and jobs, the region generates more than a third of Slovenia’s GDP, meaning that it is also the most economically developed region in the country. The region generates as much as 36.5% of the total Slovenia GDP, with its capital Ljubljana being the political, economic, administrative, scientific and cultural centre of Slovenia.

A great majority of state institutions are headquartered in the region as are numerous large companies. The country's largest university, the University of Ljubljana (UL), also has its seat in the city.

mobility goals

Ljubljana has significantly expanded its mobility services in recent years. The BicikeLJ bike-sharing system, launched in 2011, has grown from 300 bikes at 30 stations to 850 bikes at 85 stations in 2023, offering residents a fast and convenient way to travel. In 2022, the city introduced Nomago Bikes, an electric bike service ideal for longer distances. Additionally, the Avant2Go car-sharing system has been expanding, offering more flexible transportation options. Improvements at the main train station are also underway to enhance service delivery and connectivity. These developments are part of Ljubljana's broader strategy to foster sustainable mobility and reduce reliance on private vehicles.

The region's mobility vision is shaped by its Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP), which outlines long-term goals for sustainable transportation. The city aims to integrate innovative mobility solutions, with key policies such as the Sustainable Energy Action Plan, Electromobility Strategy, and Zero Waste Plan supporting this vision. On a regional level, the Regional Development Programme and the SUMP of LUR guide actions across the urban region. The city is currently working to renew its SUMP, originally developed in 2017-2018, to ensure continued progress in reducing environmental impact, promoting shared mobility, and improving accessibility for all residents.

Population 

  • 1.259 million

Area (km2)

  • 726

modal split (2018)

  • Private vehicle - 20%
  • Public transport - 49%
  • Walking - 28%

challenges:

  • Traffic Congestion: Significant delays during peak hours, contributing to delays and frustration for commuters, air pollution and reduced road safety.
  • Limited Public Transportation: Insufficient coverage in some areas, increasing reliance on private vehicles in some areas.
  • Air Pollution: High vehicle numbers and congestion lead to poor air quality, affecting public health and the environment.
  • Safety Concerns: High accident rates, inadequate traffic law enforcement and lack of pedestrian/cyclist infrastructure.
European Union

This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme under grant agreement No. 101103924. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

CIVITAS
Mission Cities

REALLOCATE is a project under the CIVITAS Initiative, an EU-funded programme working to make sustainable and smart mobility a reality for all, and contributes to the goals of the EU Mission Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities.