If you are in Ljubljana and do not want to miss France vs Spain, you have several good options. Whether you are hoping to watch Kylian Mbappé face Lamine Yamal with a large crowd or prefer a pub atmosphere, it is worth planning ahead. Big international matches can fill up quickly, especially if local football fans are interested.
Before you leave your accommodation, check the match time and confirm where it is being shown. If you are travelling and do not have access to television, this guide to watching Spain vs France online explains some of the available viewing options.
Where should you watch the match?
Pogačarjev trg (Pogačar Square)
If Ljubljana is operating an official public fan zone for the tournament, Pogačarjev trg is usually the first place to consider. The square is in the city centre, close to the Central Market and only a short walk from Prešeren Square.
A public screening offers the biggest atmosphere. Expect plenty of people, especially if the weather is good and the match is important. Arriving 30 to 60 minutes before kick-off gives you a much better chance of finding a reasonable place to stand or sit.
Food and drinks are usually available nearby, but queues can become long before the match and during half-time. Public toilets may be available depending on how the fan zone is organised, but do not expect luxury facilities.
Lepa Žoga
Lepa Žoga is one of Ljubljana’s best-known football bars and a reliable choice if you want to watch the game with people who are there specifically for football.
The atmosphere is generally more focused on the match than in an ordinary pub. Expect cheering, discussion about the game and a crowd that pays attention from kick-off until the final whistle.
For a high-profile fixture like France vs Spain, tables can fill well before the match starts. If you want a seat, arrive early or consider making a reservation if the venue accepts them.
Cutty Sark Pub Ljubljana
Cutty Sark Pub is another dependable option for international visitors. It has been a popular sports pub in Ljubljana for many years and regularly shows major football events.
The crowd is often a mix of locals, students and visitors. If you are travelling alone, it is generally an easy place to enjoy the match without feeling out of place.
Like any popular sports pub, it can become busy during major tournaments. Expect to order drinks before kick-off rather than waiting until the last minute, when the bar may be crowded.
How early should you arrive?
For any of these three options, arriving early is the safest approach. Around 45 minutes before kick-off is sensible for pubs, while public screenings may require even more time if you want a good view of the screen.
If you arrive just before the match starts, you may end up standing at the back or searching for another venue.
What should you expect?
- Most places accept card payments, but carrying a little cash is never a bad idea.
- Wear clothing suitable for the weather, especially if you are watching outdoors.
- Mobile coverage in central Ljubljana is generally good, although large crowds can occasionally slow mobile data.
- If you support either France or Spain, football shirts are perfectly normal to wear.
- After the final whistle, expect heavier pedestrian traffic around the city centre and a short wait for taxis if the match finishes late.
Whether you choose the large atmosphere of Pogačarjev trg, the football-focused crowd at Lepa Žoga or the familiar sports pub setting of Cutty Sark, you should have no trouble finding a good place to watch one of the biggest matches of the tournament if you plan ahead.
