Ljubljana is one of the most underrated cities in Europe. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and an up-and-coming culinary scene, it’s one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.
The city is quite small, and not all of its neighborhoods have a lot to offer visitors. That means figuring out exactly where to stay in Ljubljana can be tricky.
To help you out, we’ve figured out the best places to stay in Ljubljana for different travel styles and budgets. Whether you’re looking for the hottest clubs or coolest culture – you’ve come to the right place!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Ljubljana.
Home Marked with the Best View In Town! | Best Airbnb in Ljubljana
It may be up four flights of stairs, but you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views in Ljubljana from this Airbnb. The cozy loft can sleep up to three guests, and is smartly designed to make use of the space.
Hostel Vrba | Best Hostel in Ljubljana
Hostel Vrba is our favorite hostel in Ljubljana. Set in Trnovo in the centre of the city, this hostel is close to restaurants, bars, and top attractions. Private and shared accommodation options are available, and free tea and coffee are available.
Art hotel Ljubljana | Best Hotel in Ljubljana
Set in the city center, Art Hotel offers stylish and modern three-star accommodation. It is close to bars, restaurants, shopping, and famous landmarks.
The rooms are comfortable and spacious, and each is outfitted with a range of great amenities.
Old Town
Located at the centre of Ljubljana is Old Town. Nestled between the Ljubljanica River and the Ljubljana Castle, this medieval part of the city is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, winding alleyways, traditional architecture and charming restaurants.
Trnovo
Trnovo is a trendy neighbourhood just south of Ljubljana’s city centre. A popular gathering place for students and young adults, this neighbourhood is brimming with bars and restaurants, cafes and clubs.
City Centre
In addition to its central location, Ljubljana’s City Centre is perfect for night owls and party animals. Boasting the best nightlife in the city, this downtown neighbourhood is bursting with a vibrant atmosphere, lively bars, and exciting clubs.
Metelkova
Metelkova is far and away one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Ljubljana. Located north of the city centre, Metelkova is an alternative cultural centre that attracts artists and performers from throughout Slovenia and Europe.
Koseze
Located west of the city centre, Koseze is a beautiful and charming neighbourhood. It is a short 15-minute bike ride from Ljubljana Castle, and this is where you can enjoy all the benefits of being in the city without the hustle, bustle and chaos.
Ljubljana is quickly rising in the ranks as one of the coolest travel destinations in Europe. It’s a charming city brimming with artists, museums, galleries, and restaurants. Here, you’ll find everything from stunning architecture and ancient castles to expansive green spaces and luscious lands.
The City Centre and Old Town are the heart and soul of Ljubljana. These neighborhoods are where you’ll find the majority of the city’s top attractions, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Dragon Bridge.
This is also where you’ll find great restaurants, trendy bars, excellent shopping and a myriad of incredible sights.
To the north of the city centre is Metelkova. An autonomous community centre, Metelkova is a quirky and exciting neighborhood that is home to artists, designers and performers.
Travel south of the city centre and you’ll find yourself in Trnovo. This sprawling neighborhood is teeming with cafes and bars, as well as green spaces and parks. Popular with students and young people, it’s an ideal destination if you’re visiting Slovenia on a budget.
West of the city centre is the beautiful neighborhood of Koseze. It’s slightly quieter than other areas, making it more suited for families visiting the area.
Still not sure where to stay in Ljubljana? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Ljubljana’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
In this section, we’ve got more detailed guides on each neighborhood. We’ve included our top accommodation and activity picks in each, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
1. Old Town – Where to Stay in Ljubljana for your First Visit
Old Town sits at the centre of the city. This medieval part of Ljubljana is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, winding alleyways, traditional architecture, and charming restaurants.
Old Town is where you’ll find many of Ljubljana’s most famous landmarks. From the Dragon Bridge to Robba Fountain, this part of the city is packed with unique places to visit.
If you’re keen to try traditional Slovenian food, look no further. This compact neighborhood is teeming with eateries and cafes serving up the very best Slovenian dishes and delights!
Home Marked with the Best View In Town! | Best Airbnb in Old Town
This cozy loft offers unbeatable views over Ljubljana, the river, and the castle. Despite being small, it can sleep up to three visitors and has a full kitchen area. Its central location puts you. in the heart of restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Hostel 24 | Best Hostel in Old Town
Located less than one kilometre from the centre of the city, you won’t find much better budget accommodation than Hostel 24. There’s a communal kitchen, as well as a book exchange and comfy common areas.
Hotel Emonec | Best Hotel in Old Town
Hotel Emonec is located in the centre of Ljubljana. It’s a stone’s throw from the castle, restaurants, cafes, and museums. Charming and cosy, this hotel has an on-site restaurant, tour desk, and laundry facilities for guests.
The rooms are spacious, outfitted with modern amenities, and have private bathrooms.
Vander Urbani Resort | Best Hotel in Old Town
Vander Urbani is a stylish and atmospheric hotel – and our choice for where to stay in Old Town. Located a short distance from Ljubljana Castle, this four-star property is close to restaurants, bars and popular nightclubs.
It has an on-site fitness centre, a rooftop terrace and a relaxing sauna.
Things to See and Do in Old Town
- Explore Ljubljana Castle, a stunning medieval fortress that has great views over the river and city.
- Stop by and pay tribute to Hercules at the Herkulov vodnjak.
- See Robbov vodnjak. Also known as the Fountain of Three Carniolan Rivers, Robba Fountain is one of the city’s best-known Baroque monuments.
- Prepared to be amazed by the colourful and intricate interiors of the Ljubljana Cathedral.
- Cross the iconic Dragon Bridge, and snap the perfect pic for the ‘gram by its impressive statues.
- Enjoy an incredible meal at STRELEC Restaurant, where the views are almost as good as the food!
- Dine on modern cuisine at Julija.
- Dance the night away at the exciting and lively Pritlije.
- Ride the funicular to the top of the hill and enjoy the views along the way.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Trnovo – Where to Stay in Ljubljana on a Budget
Trnovo is a trendy neighborhood just south of Ljubljana’s city centre. A popular gathering place for students and young adults, this neighborhood is brimming with bars and restaurants, cafes and clubs.
You’ll also find lush green spaces, perfect for a relaxing afternoon of sunshine, stunning views, and idyllic strolls.
This massive Ljubljana neighborhood is also your best bet when searching for budget accommodation in Ljubljana. From cheap and charming to modern and stylish, this neighborhood is where you’ll get the best bang for your buck.
Entire Home in Central Location | Best Airbnb in Trnovo
This place feels like a home away from home. It’s ideal for couples, but there’s room for small families to stay here as well. When you are ready to get out of the house, you can take an 8-minute walk and find yourself at the main city square and archeological park.
Hostel Vrba | Best Hostel in Trnovo
Hostel Vrba is our choice for the best hostel in Ljubljana. Set in the centre of the city, this hostel is close to restaurants, bars and Ljubljana’s top attractions. It has private and shared accommodation options.
There are free coffee and tea, laundry facilities, and a relaxing common room.
Sport Hotel Ljubljana | Best Hotel in Trnovo
Sport Hotel Ljubljana is our top recommendation for where to stay in Trnovo. Located outside of the city center, all of Ljubljana’s top landmarks and attractions are easily accessible by car, bike, or bus.
This comfortable hotel has a swimming pool, playground, and an in-house bar. It also offers a great range of modern amenities.
Dimora Karlovska | Best Hotel in Trnovo
Enjoy a stay in a traditional Slovenian apartment at Dimora Karlovska. The flat is cozy and quaint and has all the basic necessities required for a great stay in the city.
This property is close to Ljubljana Cathedral, Dragon Bridge, and the area’s top bars and restaurants.
Things to See and Do in Trnovo
- Sip on a cup of freshly roasted coffee at Mala Prazarna.
- See the remains of the city’s Roman walls at Rimski zid na Mirju.
- Cross the Trnovo Bridge, famous for its impressive width and tree-lined walkway.
- Take a relaxing and peaceful stroll along the Ljubljanica River on the Trnovski Pristan walkway.
- Grab a drink at Sax Pub, a Ljubljana institution popular for its vibrant and colorful graffiti-covered façade.
- Enjoy a cup of coffee as you browse the vintage museum pieces decorating Nostalgija Vintage Cafe.
- Dance until dawn to the city’s best DJs at Cirkus Club.
3. City Centre – Best Place to Stay in Ljubljana for Nightlife
In addition to its central location, Ljubljana’s City Centre is perfect for night owls and party animals. Boasting the best nightlife in the city, this downtown neighborhood is bursting with a vibrant atmosphere, lively bars, and exciting clubs.
Here you’ll find a tonne of places to meet new people, enjoy a cocktail and dance the night away.
But there’s more to the city center than just bars and clubs. This district is teeming with museums, art galleries, shops, and boutiques.
Whether you’re looking to pick up a new piece for your closet or art for your walls, there’s plenty to see, do – and shop for – in the city centre.
Renovated Apartment in the Hustle and Bustle | Best Airbnb in City Centre
Directly below the castle is this beautiful apartment residing just about 50 meters from public transport. It’s a simple and clean apartment that’s been newly renovated to comfortably sleep up to three guests.
Fluxus Hostel | Best Hostel in City Centre
This colourful and cosy hostel is located in the heart of the city. It is a short walk from Ljubljana’s top attractions and there are many eateries, clubs, bars and cafes nearby.
Fluxus Hostel has laundry facilities, an outdoor terrace, and a welcoming common room. There’s even a relaxing steam room!
Art hotel Ljubljana | Best Hotel in City Centre
Art hotel Ljubljana is a stylish and modern three-star hotel. It is close to bars, restaurants, shopping, and famous landmarks. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, and each is outfitted with a range of great amenities.
Urban Hotel Ljubljana | Best Hotel in City Centre
This fashionable four-star hotel is perfect for your time in Ljubljana. Set in the City Centre, the Urban Hotel Ljubljana boasts stylish, air-conditioned rooms. It’s a stone’s throw from bars, clubs, and shops.
Things to See and Do in City Centre
- Enjoy a cold pint at Premier Pub.
- Sink your teeth into a delicious burger at Centralna Postaja.
- Dine on innovative dishes and classics with a twist at Žmauc.
- Listen to great music and enjoy a drink (or two) at Cutty Sark Pub.
- Down a good ol’ pint at Patrick’s Irish Pub, where the atmosphere is good and there’s a variety of beers on tap.
- See incredible views from the rooftop terrace of Skyscraper.
- View prehistoric artifacts at the National Museum of Slovenia.
- Challenge a friend (or stranger) to a rousing game of beer pong at Shooters Club.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Metelkova – Coolest Neighborhood in Ljubljana
Metelkova is far and away one of the coolest neighborhoods in Ljubljana. It’s an alternative cultural centre that attracts artists and performers from all over Slovenia and Europe.
Built on the site of the former headquarters of the Army of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Yugoslav National Army, Metelkova is a self-declared autonomous community. It’s filled with underground clubs and galleries, as well as bars and restaurants selling cheap food and drinks.
Wander throughout the seven buildings that make up Metelkova and see incredible examples of colourful street art, public art exhibitions, and more.
Vintage Home in Center | Best Airbnb in Metelkova
This has got to be the funkiest room in Slovenia. For the Redbull fans, they’ve got you stocked for the time you will be staying in the random wall fridge. There’s vintage decor throughout, and room to comfortably sleep four guests.
Hostel Celica | Best Hostel in Metelkova
Hostel Celica is located north of the city centre in Metelkova. It is just steps from the hottest clubs and coolest bars in the city. Built in an old military prison, this hostel is bursting with character and atmosphere. It has a common room, kitchen and outdoor terrace.
Hotel Meksiko | Best Hotel in Metelkova
Hotel Meksiko is a comfortable and contemporary three-star hotel in the Metelkova neighborhood. A short walk from the city centre, this hotel is close to the city’s trendiest bars and liveliest clubs. Rooms have modern décor, free wifi and comfortable beds. There’s also an on-site bar and restaurant.
Hotel Asteria Ljubljana | Best Hotel in Metelkova
Hotel Asteria Ljubljana is a great base for your time in the city. Located north of the city centre, this three-star property is close to the train station and is a short walk to Ljubljana’s top attractions. It has an outdoor terrace and relaxing garden.
Things to See and Do in Metelkova
- Listen to great rock and metal music at Orto Bar, one of the biggest clubs in Ljubljana.
- Dance the night away at K4, a massive club that plays everything from techno and house to drum and bass and beyond.
- See incredible works of modern art at the Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova | +MSUM.
- View interesting exhibits that explore the link between past and present cultures and traditions at the Slovenian Ethnographic Museum.
- Enjoy great Slovenian food at reasonable prices at Das ist Valter.
- Dine on everything from delicious pizza to fresh salads at Utrip.
5. Koseze – Best Place to Stay in Ljubljana for Families
Koseze is our best recommendation for where to stay in Ljubljana if you’re traveling with the clan. This beautiful and charming neighborhood is a 15-minute bike ride from Ljubljana Castle. It’s where you can enjoy all the benefits of being in the city without the hustle, bustle and chaos.
Surrounded by nature, Koseze is one of the most relaxing neighborhoods in Ljubljana. It’s a popular destination for visitors and locals alike thanks to its network of walking trails, lush natural scenery and the delightful Koseze pond.
Here you’ll also find a great variety of family-friendly activities and attractions, including Ljubljana zoo and fun mini golf.
Family-Friendly Apartment | Best Airbnb in Koseze
Feel right at home at this family-friendly apartment in Koseze. With space for up to six guests, it’s bright and colorful throughout and features child-friendly beds. It’s got a full kitchen, dining, and living area, as well as laundry facilities and free wifi. The apartment is surrounded by greenery but sits just 3km from the city center.
Aladin Hostel | Best Hostel in Koseze
The Aladin Hostel is a colorful and welcoming family-friendly hostel in Koseze. It is close to Tivoli park and a short transit ride from the city center. It has free wifi, a games room, on-site bicycle rentals, and laundry facilities. There’s also a bar, café, and mini-supermarket.
M Hotel Ljubljana | Best Hotel in Koseze
M Hotel Ljubljana is a stylish and modern four-star hotel – and our top pick for where to stay in Koseze. Recently renovated, this hotel boasts spacious rooms, each outfitted with a private bathroom and free wifi.
There is a sun-soaked terrace, an on-site bar, and a breakfast buffet.
Aparthotel Vila Minka Ljubljana | Best Hotel in Koseze
With tennis courts, a bowling alley, and a range of outdoor activities, Vila Minka is packed with family-friendly fun! Each apartment is outfitted with a kitchenette, free wifi, and a range of modern amenities. There’s also an on-site restaurant and stylish lounge bar.
Things to See and Do in Koseze
- Explore the lush and expansive Tivoli Park.
- Play a fun round of 18 holes at Mini Golf Café.
- See your favorite animals at the Ljubljana Zoo.
- Climb to the top of Roznik Hill and enjoy great views in serene nature.
- Go for a walk – or if visiting in winter, a skate – around Koseze Pond.
- Catch a game and cheer on your favorite team at Lepa Žoga, a fantastic and family-friendly sports bar.
- Enjoy an incredible meal at Pomaranca.
- Sip and sample Slovenian specialties at Gostilna Pri Vodniku.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Ljubljana
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Ljubljana and where to stay.
What To Pack For Ljubljana
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
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Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Ljubljana
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Ljubljana
Ljubljana is undoubtedly one of the most underrated cities in Europe. This compact capital city is bursting with incredible landmarks, exquisite art, exciting bars, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff or a culture vulture, there’s something for everyone in Slovenia’s capital city.
If you’re still not sure where to stay, we highly recommend Art hotel Ljubljana. Stylish and modern, this three-star hotel is ideally located in the city center close to the best bars, restaurants, shops, and sights. If you’re on a budget, our vote for the best hostel goes to Hostel Vrba.
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Slovenia.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Ljubljana.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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!
