Once known as Melania Knavs, the supermodel turned wife of businessman and presidential candidate Donald Trump used to drive around Ljubljana on a metallic blue Vespa. Once a sleepy town in Slovenia's capital, the city is now filled with tourists and nightclubs, with foreigners eager to know how Melania spent her earlier years. Here are the best things to do in Ljubljana to be able to relive Melania Trump's childhood experiences.
1. Ljubljana Castle
The ultimate symbol of the city, the castle is located on a small hill at the city center. The insides of the castle contain the Chapel of St. George, built in the Baroque style. According to Wow Travel, this is one place many citizens and tourists come during the day to relax and go for a walk. It is believed Melania rode her Vespa and saw this castle everyday.
2. Congress Square
Surrounded by old historic buildings and leafy trees, the square also fronts the University of Ljubljana where Melania studied at the Faculty of Architecture. According to Big Story, a classmate, Rok Bogataj said that Melania regularly attended lectures but did not finish the course. One day, Bogataj and his peers just found out that she had gone to Milan to become a fashion model.
3. Lake Bled
Although northwest of the city, this lake features emerald-green waters and a spectacular array of trees on a tiny island. Surrounded by the Julian Alps, a church tower peeks over the tops of the evergreens in this lakeside town.
At the Grand Hotel Toplice, Bled, Melania first introduced Donald Trump to her parents in July 2002, which was two years before their official engagement. It is also believed that this was the last time since now that Melania visited Slovenia.
4. The Horse's Tail Café
Located near Tromostovje, a triple stone bridge famous in the city for its small dragon-like statues, this café was Melania's favorite in Ljublajana. The former model might be disappointed to know, however, that she can't ride her scooter to the café anymore, as the city's heart has been closed to traffic. The walking-only system allows citizens and tourists to enjoy Ljubljana's sights on foot.
5. Piran and Potoroz
Located near Bled and Ljubljana are these seaside towns, known as the "Venice of Slovenia" and a French-Riviera style resort with luxurious hotels. In 1992, Melania first got her big modeling break in Potoroz, modeling for a Slovenian women's magazine. It was here that she was invited to go to Milan and start her career in modeling.
