Croatia is, arguably, one of the most underrated countries in the world. Home to some of the most photogenic coastlines in all of Europe, Croatia should feature high on your bucket list.
As amazing as Croatia is, the country’s hostel game is lagging behind a little.
That’s why we wrote this epic insider guide to the 35 best hostels in Croatia. With the help of this guide, you can book the best hostel in Croatia for you, with total confidence.
Perhaps you’re flying in for an affordable vacation, or maybe you’re dropping by on your inter-rail adventure. However you choose to experience Croatia, know that the hostels in this guide have been chosen with you in mind.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the 35 best hostels in Croatia.
Quick Answer – The Best Hostels in Croatia
- Overall Best Hostel in Croatia – Hostel Angelina – Dubrovnik
- Best Hostel for Couples in Croatia – Downtown Boutique Hostel – Zadar
- Best Party Hostel in Croatia – Whole Wide World Hostel & Bar – Zagreb
The 35 Best Hostels in Croatia
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
Hostel Angelina – Dubrovnik – Overall Best Hostel in Croatia
The overall best hostel in Croatia is Hostel Angelina in Dubrovnik. If you are Dubrovnik bound and are keen to get booked up ASAP, look no further and secure your bed right now! The dorms offer you plenty of space to spread out. You can unpack and feel right at home here.
As the best hostel in Croatia in 2024, Hostel Angelina has an on-point hostel vibe and a heap of fantastic facilities. As a guest, you are welcome to cook for yourself in the communal kitchen and you can mingle with fellow travelers in the common room.
Windward Hostel – Zadar
Featuring a sailing theme, Windward Hostel in Zadar is probably the coolest hostel in Croatia! Exquisitely designed and with a real homeliness too, Windward Hostel is your next favorite place in the world!
The team are super welcoming and always on hand to help travelers just like you. The dorms are affordable and feature everything you need. All the rooms have air conditioning which is a total must in the sweltering Croatian summer months.
All the dorms have security lockers and each bed comes with its own reading light and charging port too. They’ve got this hostel thing sussed!
Hostel Mali Mrak – Zagreb
Anything but ordinary, Hostel Mali Mrak is a Croatia backpackers hostel not to be missed. Laid back and fun loving – but never pushing the limits on the drinking front – Hostel Mali Mrak is the perfect place for solo travelers in Zagreb.
The team reckons that they have hosted over 35,000 travelers since opening their doors. They know exactly what real backpackers are seeking and boy do they deliver.
If you find yourself weary on the road and in dire need of a down-to-earth traveling goodness, get booked into Hostel Mali Mrak. You won’t regret it.
Dubrovnik Backpackers Club – Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Backpackers Clubs is definitely one of the best hostels in Croatia for solo travelers. Having established itself as something of an institution, travelers of every variety make a beeline for Dubrovnik Backpackers Club the moment they arrive.
This is a family run hostel and they keep the place spotless. They do not tolerate any bad boozers and this helps to create the perfect hostel vibe.
Located a 10-minute walk from the center of town, Dubrovnik Backpackers Club offers the best of both worlds. A good night’s sleep guaranteed and easy access to this incredible city.
The Hostel – Zadar
The Hostel in Zadar is one of the best cheap hostels in Croatia. This little gem sits just a few minutes walk from the waterfront and is a great find. Every bed offers its own reading light, charging port, shelf and security locker. What’s more, linen and towels are included in the room rate too.
If you are keen to keep costs down be sure to hire a bicycle from the team at reception. You are welcome to rustle up food for yourself in the communal kitchen if that works out cheaper for you too.
Backpackers Fairytale – Split
Backpackers Fairytale is just that – a fairytale come true for budget-conscious backpackers in Split. As one of the best cheap hostels in Croatia Backpackers Fairytale offers outstanding value for money. The communal kitchen, laundry facilities, and free WiFi mean that you’ve got the basics included in your room rate.
At the travel desk, you’ll find some epic deals on day trips and city tours. The staff are super friendly and are the best people to ask about how to make your money go further in Split, Croatia. They’ll know what events are free and which are worth forking out for.
Downtown Boutique Hostel – Zadar – Best Hostel for Couples in Croatia
Downtown Boutique Hostel is the best hostel in Croatia for couples. Offering a hostel for the modern traveler, Downtown Boutique Hostel offers everything the 2024 backpacker could need. The private rooms are perfect for couples exploring Croatia. Many of the rooms offer dreamy views over Zadar – totally romantic.
You and your lover will find plenty of opportunities to mingle with other backpackers during your stay at Downtown Boutique Hostel. The bar is a popular hangout spot and the common room too. Be sure to hire bicycles it’s a fun (and kinda romantic) way to explore Zadar together.
Hostel Dioklecijan – Split
Hostel Dioklecijan is a cute AF Croatia backpackers hostel. Offering cozy private rooms, Hostel Dioklecijan is a top pick for couples heading to Split. If you fancy treating yourselves during your trip to Croatia, let it be in Split.
At Hostel Dioklecijan the first floor is a studio apartment with a double bedroom. You can feel right at home here.
The rooms are super affordable, even during high season. The staff take great care of their guests and ensure everyone has a memorable stay. Hostel Dioklecijan is a top find in Croatia. Secure your room today.
Villa Micika – Dubrovnik
Villa Micika in Dubrovnik is a top hostel in Croatia. Ideal for couples, Villa Micika offers everything you and your lover could need. All the rooms have air conditioning and offer free internet access too.
In the winter months, the team offers a free pick up service from either the bus stop or the main ferry port. In the high season, they can assist with transfers too.
The beach is only a matter of steps away. In terms of location and value for money, Villa Micika is a fantastic option for couples in Dubrovnik.
Whole Wide World Hostel & Bar – Zagreb – Best Party Hostel in Croatia
Whole Wide World Hostel & Bar is the best party hostel in Croatia. Hands down. This place is our kinda place – party central! With dirt cheap room rates, a belter of a free breakfast and an in-house bar for good measure, what’s not to love?
This party hostel is the OG in Zagreb and attracts a fun-loving crowd. The hostel fam runs nightly events, including pub crawls and beer pong. Whole Wide World Hostel & Bar is your quintessential party hostel. Get ready to not remember much of your stay – in all the right ways. You’re gonna have the time of your life.
Hostel & Rooms Ana – Dubrovnik
Offering a late check-out and no curfew, if you’re game to go hard in Dubrovnik you best book a bed at Hostel & Rooms Ana. Although there is no bar in-house you can BYO. You can pre-drink at Hostel & Rooms Ana and then head out into Dubrovnik.
The city’s nightlife scene is next level and not to be missed. Remember to be a good little hostel-bunny and not come crashing in after midnight.
Hostel & Rooms Ana is a kickass youth hostel in Croatia. Staying here gets you exclusive discounts at a number of restaurants in the city – perfect!
Split Backpackers – Split
Split Backpackers is a highly recommended hostel in Croatia. For party lovers heading to Split, Split Backpackers is a solid choice. Although there is no in-house bar you can BYO.
A solid all-rounder, Split Backpackers is the ideal choice for travelers game for a couple of nights of partying but also want to soak up the cultural heritage Split is so famous for.
You can book all your tours and trips at the in-house travel desk. Split Backpackers is run by a team of super cool locals who are always on hand to share their local knowledge with eager explorers.
Swanky Mint – Zagreb
Swanky Mint is just that, swanky! This ultra-modern hostel has everything a digital nomad in Croatia could need. Free WiFi access, plenty of space to work in and high levels of security.
With an eclectic decor, Swanky Mint is ideal for digital nomads seeking inspiration in Croatia. You needn’t leave the hostel if you don’t want to. This place has everything you could need. A bar and cafe, community kitchen, housekeeping, even a swimming pool.
Swanky Mint is the coolest hostel in Croatia no doubt about it. If you’re a digital nomad heading to Zagreb, secure your bed at Swanky Mint ASAP.
Old Town Hostel – Dubrovnik
Old Town Hostel in Dubrovnik is the best hostel in Croatia for flashpackers or digital nomads who enjoy the finer things in life. This boutique hostel is a little pricey but well worth the investment.
The free breakfast and decent WiFi does create good value for money. The hostel is actually set within the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Old Town Dubrovnik. This is why the rates are a little higher.
For digital nomads juggling the workload and travel experiences, Old Town Hostel is ideal. Dubrovnik is on your doorstep. Exploring Croatia could not be easier.
Boutique Hostel Forum – Zadar
Boutique HOstel Forum in Zadar is a fantastic youth hostel in Croatia with private rooms. This super modern hostel is bright and beautiful. The orange theme adds a vibrancy and upbeat feel to Boutique Hostel Forum, you can’t be unhappy here.
The private rooms are affordable and offer WiFi access and a private ensuite bathroom too. They even have a mini bar. Yes please!
The hostel has all the facilities you could possibly ask for. They’ll even lend you an adaptor if you forget. The breakfast is not included in the room rate but is worth the extra money.
Violet – Dubrovnik
Unfussy and affordable, Violet in Dubrovnik is one of the best hostels in Croatia with private rooms. If you are looking for some space for yourself to retreat to after a long day exploring Dubrovnik, Violet is the place for you.
The rooms are simple and comfortable. WiFi is free to all guests and you are invited to cook for yourself in the communal kitchen too.
The whole hostel has air conditioning. This is much needed in the hot summer months. The coastal breeze doesn’t quite cool you down enough. Book your private room in Croatia today!
Green Lizard Hostel – Hvar
Hold up! If you are headed to Hvar then the overall best hostel in Croatia for you is Green Lizard Hostel. This gem of a hostel offers everything you could ask for, and then some.
This wonderfully sociable hostel is as friendly as can be. Whether you’re a solo traveler or hitting up Hvar with your crew, you’ll surely fall in love with Green Lizard Hostel.
You couldn’t get a better-located hostel if you tried. The beach is just a 3-minute walk away and the center of town (and Hvar’s famous nightlife scene) is just a 5-minute walk inland. Get booking!
Grand Gallery Lero – Split
Grand Gallery Lero is well deserving of the accolade of the overall best hostel in Croatia. Grand Gallery Lero is a firm favorite within the backpacking community and that is high praise indeed. We are a picky bunch!
Grand Gallery Lero is the best hostel in Croatia for you if you are wanting a solid all-rounder in Split. Offering a late check-out service, free WiFi, a super cute common room and a buzzing atmosphere – Grand Gallery Lero is a fantastic find.
There are dorms and private rooms available, neither option will break the bank. The choice is yours.
The Cherry Hostel – Zagreb
The Cherry Hostel in Zagreb was a close contender for the best hostel in Croatia. You should defiantly give it some thought. Offering outstanding value for money and a truly authentic experience, The Cherry Hostel is a winner in our eyes. This family-run hostel is set in a safe and friendly neighborhood of the Croatian capital city.
Checking-in here gets you access to free WiFi, a free breakfast, complimentary city maps and access to the hostel’s tours and travel desk. Make sure you have a chat with the staff, they can make your dreams come true.
CroParadise Green Hostel – Split – Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Croatia
CroParadise Gren Hostel in Split is the best hostel in Croatia for solo travelers – no doubt about it! The awesome team of staff run pub crawls every single night of the summer season.
Solo travelers you won’t be roaming alone for long that’s for sure. At the tours and travel desk, you can sign up for the hostel’s walking tours and day trips too.
FYI – CroParadise is a darn good option for digital nomads too. They offer free and unlimited access to ultra-fast 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz Wi-Fi. There is an iMac in every room too. Boom!
The Drunken Monkey Hostel – Zadar
The Drunken Monkey Hostel is a top hostel in Croatia for solo travelers. Homely and a whole heap of fun, The Drunken Monkey Hostel is a clean, cozy and comfortable hostel in the Arbanasi neighborhood of Zadar.
The location is spot on. The waterfront is just a matter of steps away and this scenic stretch of the city leads you up to the Old Town within just 20-minutes.
The hostel bar is the best place for a solo traveler to find their new crew in Zadar. It can get pretty pumping if you’re game for a party.
Hostel Villa Skansi – Hvar
Hostel Villa Skansi is a fantastic youth hostel in Croatia. If you’re a solo traveler hitting up Hvar you’ll be stoked in your choice of Hostel Villa Skansi. Just take a look at their rooftop terrace.
This place is dreamy! You can catch chill out swapping stories with your new hostel buddies overlooking one of the best views in Croatia. If that’s not living we don’t know what is.
Hostel Villa Skansi is the kind of hostel that will greet you like an old friend. You best schedule in an extra couple of days here…
Dink’s Place – Hvar – Best Cheap Hostel in Croatia
Dink’s Place is the best cheap hostel in Croatia. Stop your search now. This all-encompassing hostel ticks all the right boxes and offers crazy cheap room rates. There is a party feel to Dink’s Place, especially in the high season.
Guests explore Hvar during the day and reconvene in the Dink’s Place common room early in the evening. It’s a good little system.
If you’re keen to keep costs down be sure to cook for yourself. Dink’s Place has a fully equipped kitchen so make yourself at home. The staff can help you with where to go food shopping.
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View on Osprey View on REIHostel Lina – Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is not all that cheap to explore, especially in the summer. Hostel Lina is the best budget hostel in Croatia for broke backpackers who have their hearts set on exploring Dubrovnik. Clean, cozy and humble, Hostel Lina offers you the basics.
You have access to free WiFi and a self-catering kitchen too. There is a tours and travel desk too. If you’re in search of an affordable tour you best get chatting up the staff.
The decor could be described as a bit dated but we’d prefer to say authentic, and in keeping with the rustic vibes of Dubrovnik.
Hostel Chic Zagreb – Zagreb
Hostel Chic Zagreb is a highly recommended hostel in Croatia for travelers on a shoestring. Sophisticated and modern, Hostel Chic Zagreb is a must visit. The hostel is in a great location, set within an easy walking distance of the leading attractions in Zagreb.
The dorms offer just the right amount of space and each bed comes with its own reading light. The WiFi is reliable enough and there is a cafe in addition to the common room. There is plenty of space to feel at home at Hostel Chic in Zagreb. FYI – there are super cheap private rooms here too.
Hostel Shappy – Zagreb
Hostel Shappy is a great youth hostel in Zagreb and is ideal for couples. Low key and affordable, Hostel Shappy offers both dorm rooms and private rooms too.
Whether you are on a budget with bae or you guys can afford to check-in to a private room, you will have an enjoyable stay at Hostel Shappy. It’s got to be said, the staff at Hostel Shappy are fantastic. They go above and beyond for their guests. If you need a hand just holla.
Featuring modern decor and a cozy and homely feel. There is a lot to love about Hostel Shappy.
Guesthouse Dvoshko – Hvar
The team at Guesthouse Dvoshko pride themselves on offering a personal service to each and every guest. Guesthouse Dvoshko is a youthful hostel that offers high levels of privacy for travelers who want to experience Hvar at their own pace.
Offering private rooms and a great selection of facilities, it is hard to find fault with Guesthouse Dvoshko.
This top hostel in Croatia offers free WiFi to all guests and access to the communal kitchen too. You are welcome to use the laundry facilities and free parking spaces too. The outdoor terrace is the perfect place to spend a lazy morning.
The Lazy Monkey – Zadar
The Lazy Monkey one of the coolest hostels in Croatia. New to the scene in Zadar, The Lazy Monkey is growing in popularity. You’d do well to secure your bed long in advance – especially in the high season.
There is a real authentic backpackers vibe here. Adventures start at The Lazy Monkey. You will find your party people hanging out on the hacienda-style seating on the outdoor terrace or by the bar.
The team have an awesome calendar of events that features everything from quiz nights to hostel-fam BBQs. There is a sense of community here.
The Shaka – Hvar
The Shaka is a fantastic youth hostel in Croatia. For party people thinking of getting down in Hvar, The Shaka is your go-t0 place to stay. Their in-house bar means that you needn’t stray far to find the party.
The team organizes hostel hangout evenings that are not to be missed. Perfect for solo travelers or groups on tour, The Shaka is a little gem in Hvar.
There is not one but two guest kitchens so there is always enough space for everyone to cook up a pre-lash meal. You know you need it.
The White Rabbit Hostel – Hvar – Best Hostel in Croatia for Digital Nomads –
The White Rabbit Hostel is the best hostel in Croatia for digital nomads. Offering free and, most importantly, reliable WiFi, The White Rabbit Hostel ticks all the digital nomad boxes straight off the bat. There is a cute in-house cafe which you are more than welcome to use as your office or the common room. Take your pick.
There is 24-hour security so you can sleep soundly at night. You can also explore anxiety-free knowing that all your precious kit is under a caring eye. Little digital nomads musts like a communal kitchen are available too.
Adria – Split
Adria is a top hostel in Croatia that is ideal for digital nomads. With affordable private rooms and cheap dorm rooms too, Adria could easily become your new home. The ocean is only a matter of steps away and there is a real beachy vibe here that makes it easy to stay focused. The WiFi is free and unlimited, and there are plenty of spaces to work in.
Adria is actually based about 10km outside of Split. This is perfect for digital nomads. We all love to see a more authentic side of the countries we visit.
Hostel 4 You – Zadar
Hostel 4 You in Zadar is a top hostel in Croatia for digital nomads. Offering a whole heap of facilities and affordable room rates, even in high season, Hostel 4 You is a little gem.
The cafe doubles as a working space for digital nomads, or you can pitch up in the common room. This is a chilled out hostel and things never get rowdy. You’ll be able to settle into work pretty easily. The whole hostel is super modern. Each dorm bed has a reading light and plug socket. The WiFi reaches all corners of the hostel and is always free.
AdriaticTrainHostels – Zagreb – Best Hostel in Croatia with a Private Room
AdriaticTrainHostels is the best hostel in Croatia with private rooms – hands down. Set within a real train, AdriaticTrainHostels offers a bucket list experience for travelers in Zagreb.
They do offer dorm rooms but if you want the best experience you should check-in to a private cabin. The hostel is set next to King Tomislav Square which puts you at the heart of the city.
Don’t think that because you’re sleeping on a train that you’ll be uncomfortable, far from it. The beds are exceptionally comfortable. The hostel offers all your usual facilities and more.
Split Center Authentic Rooms in Stone Villa – Split
This little wonder is one of the Split’s best-kept secrets. Offering super affordable private rooms in the heart of Split, Authentic Rooms has a homely feel and super comfortable beds.
There is an AirBnB feel to Authentic Rooms, more so than a hostel vibe. If you are looking for a clean and cozy private room in Split you better get booking. This place can get booked out in advance.
All the rooms have a rustic charm that you will totally fall for. The WiFi reaches the rooms and they all have their own ensuite bathroom. This is such good value for money.
Youth Hostel Villa Marija – Hvar
Youth Hostel Villa Marija is Hvar’s most loved hostel and it is not hard to see why. The hostel is just a 15-minute walk into the center of Hvar. As one of the only hostels in Hvar to have a swimming pool, Youth Hostel Villa Marija does have the X Factor.
The private rooms don’t break the bank and offer you all the privacy you need. Don’t worry about missing out on the fun because you’re not in the dorms. Youth Hostel Villa Marija is an open-hearted and friendly hostel where you’re bound to find a crew like you.
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Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for your Croatia Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
Why you should travel to Croatia
Blimey! What a collection of hostels! There is a heap of lodging choices available in Croatia.
That list of 35 best hostels in Croatia may seem a little overwhelming on the first read. If you’re in a hurry, why not keep things simple. Remember, our overall best hostel in Croatia is Hostel Angelina – Dubrovnik. This is a great starting point.
If you’re not ready to book now, favorite this page to be sure to get the best rates on the best hostels in Croatia.
Have you backpacking to Croatia? Where did you stay? If you’re planning a visit and this guide has helped, we would love to hear from you. Please leave your comments below.
Travel Safety Tips for Croatia
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
More Epic Hostels in Croatia
Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Croatia.
Planning an epic trip all across Croatia or even Europe itself?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around Europe, check out:
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Croatia has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Croatia for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Croatia before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Balkans backpacking guide.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
