As an European, when I’m thinking about Croatia, there’s a 99% chance the first thing that comes to mind is the picturesque city of Dubrovnik by the Adriatic Sea….. with hidden gems full of history. For example, Dubrovnik is home to the oldest pharmacy in Europe. (Ok. Now my alter ego Indianer Jonas awakens.) But this is a story for another time….
Not only do you have a new destination to discover when traveling to Dubrovnik, but you even got a little bit smarter. You’re welcome…
Back to the main objective.
This gorgeous city has captured the curiosity and hearts of travellers for decades, perhaps due to its cheap prices and the abundance of things to see and do, making it a popular backpacking destination.
This is exactly why we have put together this bargain guide to the best hostels in Dubrovnik.
Organised by YOUR needs, this stress-free guide to the best hostels in Dubrovnik is here to help you do one thing – find an awesome hostel!
To do so I’ve done a few things…
- First, I’ve taken all of the top-rated hostels in Hostel World and put them together in one list. No poorly reviewed hostels are here – only the cream of the crop!
- Then, I’ve taken the list a step further by organising the hostels into different categories. I realise that everyone travels differently. Some people travel solo and want to party. Others are traveling couples that are just looking for some privacy. I took a bunch of different travel-styles into account.
That’s why this is the best resource on the web for the best hostels in Dubrovnik. No matter your travel-style or travel-needs, this is the best guide on the web, and will help you book a hostel quickly!
So buckle up.
Grab your coffee. (or english breakfast)
Let’s dive in.
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What to Expect from Hostels in Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik hostels are known to be one of the cheapest forms of accommodation.
That doesn’t just go for Dubrovnik, but pretty much every place in the world. This raises maybe the question: Is Croatia an expensive destination? Anyways, that’s not the only good reason for staying at a hostel. The unique vibe and social aspects are what make hostels TRULY special.
Head down to the common room, make new friends, share travel stories and tips, or just have a great time with like-minded travellers from all over the world – you won’t get that opportunity in any other accommodation!
Dubrovnik is filled with funky hostels. There are some that are full of life and party and there are some quieter ones that cater to couples and digital nomads. The most common type is somewhere in between well suited to the solo traveler. They are somewhere to kick back, relax, and meet new people.
Let’s talk more about the important stuff – money and rooms! Dubrovnik’s hostels normally have three options: dorms, pods and private rooms (although pods are very rare). Some hostels even offer large private rooms for a group of friends. The general rule here is the more beds in a room, the cheaper the price.
Obviously, you won’t have to pay as much for an 8-bed dorm as you would for a single bed private bedroom. To give you a rough overview of Dubrovnik’s prices, I’ve listed the average numbers below:
- Dorm room (mixed or female-only): $ 20 USD/night
- Private room: $ 45 USD/night
When looking for hostels, you’ll find the best options on Hostelworld. This platform offers you a super safe and efficient booking process. All hostels are displayed with ratings and previous guest reviews. You can also filter your personal travel needs easily and find the perfect place for you.
Of course, working out where you want to stay will help you decide which hostel to pick. In general, most of the best hostels are close to old town Dubrovnik, but not all. Three of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik are:
- Old Town Dubrovnik – The best place for first timers and party lovers, you’ll love the city walls!
- Gruz – The best place for those on a budget aka broke-ass backpackers, close to the ferry port and bus station.
- Place – Hands down the coolest place in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Once you’ve worked out where you want to stay, it’s time to get cracking and pick the perfect hostel!
The 5 Best Hostels in Dubrovnik, Croatia
With so many hostel options to choose from, finding the right place for you to stay in Dubrovnik can be challenging. Rest assured though, I’ve got you covered! Here are the top five places to stay in Dubrovnik, separated into travel niches to make things that much easier.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
#1 Hostel Angelina – Old Town Dubrovnik Southern – Overall Best Hostel in Dubrovnik
Hostel Angelina Southern is the overall best hostel in Dubrovnik in 2024 and is one of Croatia’s best hostels too. It’s super popular and much loved by all who stay, and it’s not hard to see why! These guys know what they’re doing and have made a really incredible hostel here.
Friendly, welcoming, and super chilled Angelina Southern is the perfect place to start your Croatian adventures. It is located right in the centre of town close to the city walls so you are already at the heart of this epic place. There’s Free City Maps too so you don’t miss a thing.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- The aesthetic of this 400 year old building
- Only 15 minutes from the beach and the Adriatic Sea
- Friendly, multi-lingual staff
If you want to meet other travellers, this is your place. There are organised wine tours and guided walks, as well as cosy common rooms to chill out. There are also great kitchen facilities that are sure to help you bond over a meal with new peeps! It’s one of the best Dubrovnik hostels for solo travellers!
There are female and mixed dorms available, so you can keep the cost of your nightly stays down. Plus staying in a private room is a super great way to meet other travellers. It just got a cosy, social vibe to it!
The team who run this Dubrovnik backpackers hostel are really experienced and super helpful. Anything you need, just holla! The dorms are cosy and homely, just what you want in a hostel!
#2 Dubrovnik Backpackers Club – Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Dubrovnik
The best hostel for solo travellers in Dubrovnik is Dubrovnik Backpackers Club. There are some great common areas to mingle with other travellers and an awesome staff to point you in the direction of cool places to see in the city.
I mean, there’s even a friendly labrador onsite at this family-run hostel! It’s hard not to be in a good mood when there’s a dog around.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Social vibe
- Free parking
- Good garden
Dubrovnik the Backpackers Club welcomes everyone with a smile. You’re sure to find someone to explore the city with here and there’s Free City Maps so you don’t get lost! It’s got a very chill atmosphere, but perfect for getting to know everyone.
This hostel offers something for everyone with dorm rooms as well as rooms with a private bathroom. There’s a kitchen too so you can save money making your own meals. If you wanna hit up all the tourist hotspots in Dubrovnik with your new crew you’re in the perfect spot inside the city walls of old town Dubrovnik. You’re also pretty close to the ferry port too.
If you want to take it easy, the place even has a Smart TV in the common room (with Netflix)! This place has a little something for every type of backpacker traipsing through the place.
#3 City Walls Hostel – Best Budget Hostel in Dubrovnik
As soon as I arrived at the City Walls Hostel, I knew I was in for a treat. The location was unbeatable – right on the city walls of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. I could hardly contain my excitement as I checked in and made my way up to my room.
Although the rooms were simple but surprisingly comfortable. I had one of the best night’s sleep I’ve had in ages on the cozy bed. And with the city walls just outside my window, I felt like I was part of the history and charm of Dubrovnik.
The common area was small, but that didn’t matter too much since I spent most of my time out exploring the Old Town. And with the hostel located just a five-minute walk from the city gates, I was at the heart of the action in no time.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- In the middle of the historical part of the city
- Super friendly staff
- Quiet place to stay
Of course, one of the highlights of my stay at the Old Walls Hostel was being able to stroll along the city walls whenever I pleased. As a guest of the hostel, I had easy access to this iconic landmark, and I took full advantage of it. The views of the Old Town and the sea beyond were simply breathtaking.
Overall, I highly recommend the Old Walls Hostel for budget travellers looking for a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore Dubrovnik. The location can’t be beat, and the cozy rooms and friendly staff make it a great choice for any traveler.
#4 Old Town Hostel – Best Party Hostel in Dubrovnik
Old Town Hostel is the best hostel in Dubrovnik if you wanna be active 24/7. The Old Town team have created a super interactive, happy and exciting youth hostel in Dubrovnik, there’s never a dull moment!
Whether you rock up to the Emergency Hat Party, join the Moonlight Nature Walking Tour in Gradac Park or join in with the hookah hour – suffice to say travellers love every minute of their time at Old Town Hostel.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Kickass staff!
- Satellite TV
- Guitars to borrow!
The staff truly go above and beyond here – down to giving Croatian lessons! But of course, it’s the party vibe that attracts people here. You get your own key so there’s no chance of being locked out!
The kitchen facilities and free spices mean you have somewhere to come back and cook up a hangover feed! You also have comfy common areas for those nights in when you don’t feel like being out on the town and great free Wifi so you can stream Netflix!
The dorms here are spacious and clean, guaranteeing you some good sleep (when you aren’t out partying!). Location is sick too, you’re inside the city walls so it’s super easy to explore the city.
#5 Hostel Free Bird – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Dubrovnik
A little way out from Old Town, Hostel Free Bird is great for travellers who want to experience the old and the new in Dubrovnik. It’s close to plenty of bus services, so you can have an authentic city experience still.
It also has solid Free Wifi and a quiet space for the digital nomads to knuckle down and get some work done.
FYI, there is a pizzeria 50m away from Free Bird! But if that doesn’t do it for you, there are shared cooking facilities onsite that you can take full advantage of. It’s also pretty close to the main ferry port and bus station making onward travel easy.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Non smoking hostel
- Clean, modern decor
- Friendly staff
Well connected to public transport the Free Bird team are on hand to give directions, book experiences in Dubrovnik and offer insider tips and tricks to help you make the most of your time in Dubrovnik.
All the dorms are new, clean, spacious and comfortable. You’re guaranteed a good night’s rest which is something I’d crave when on the road! The dorms also have beautiful views of Dubrovnik, too! This place is really a great spot for digital nomads to sit down and get inspired.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Best Hostels in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Haven’t found the right hostel for you yet? Don’t worry, there are plenty more options waiting for you. To make the search a bit easier, I’ve listed more epic hostels in Dubrovnik below.
Villa Micika – More Cheap Hostels inDubrovnik
Villa Micika is the best hostel in Dubrovnik for couples, especially for those who want value for money.
Offering really reasonably priced private ensuite rooms, Villa Micika is a highly recommended hostel in Dubrovnik. The Villa Micika team offers a free pickup service from the bus station and the ferry port which really helps you and your partner save some kuna to spend out on the town!
Dubrovnik’s best bars, cafes and clubs are only a stone’s throw away. Due to its great location, Villa Micika makes it easy for you and your lover to explore the nightlife while getting a quiet night’s sleep.
Hostel & Rooms Ana – Another Great Party Hostel in Dubrovnik
If you’re keen for a party, you should book yourself into Hostel & Rooms Ana. Super welcoming and always up for a good time, Ana is the best hostel in Dubrovnik for travellers who wanna meet, mingle and explore Dubrovnik’s nightlife scene with new traveling buddies.
The kinda place where you can BYOB, Ana is a top hostel in Dubrovnik with no curfew and a super chilled out team of staff. The dorms are super comfy if a little on the cosy side.
If you just want a place to crash after a night out on the town, Hostel & Rooms Ana is the coolest hostel in Dubrovnik for you.
Kings Landing – Another Top Budget Hostel in Dubrovnik
Kings Landing is the ideal budget hostel in Dubrovnik, even offering a free breakfast to sweeten the deal! Inspired by Game of Thrones, fans of the show simply have no other choice but to stay here, right?!
If you’re a GoT fanatic, make sure you book onto the GoT City Tour led by an expert tour guide who also appeared in Season 2, 4 and 5! It’s amazing! Slap bang in the middle of Old Town, Kings Landing is a comfortable and cosy hostel where every guest gets greeted like an old friend.
As a little nerd, I love it!
Violet – A Great Hostel For Local Vibes
Violet is ^one of the top hostels in Dubrovnik run by a local family. Backpackers feeling a lil homesick or who wanna stay in an authentic Croatian home should book their stay at Violet.
Violet’s family home status makes it cute, cozy, and quiet. Its team is very welcoming and offers guests the option of a nice, budgeted private room or a bunk in an open dorm.
The big outdoor terrace is the perfect place to catch up on the travel diary or scour through the guidebooks planning the rest of your trip in Croatia.
What to Pack for your Dubrovnik, 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 even more top hostel packing tips!
FAQ about Hostels in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Dubrovnik.
How much does a hostel cost in Dubrovnik?
The average price of hostels in Dubrovnik varies on the room type. The price is around $20 for dorms (mixed or female only), while a private room costs $45.
What are the best hostels in Dubrovnik for couples?
Villa Micika is an ideal hostel for couples in Dubrovnik. It’s affordable and is near Dubrovnik’s best bars, cafes and clubs.
What is the best hostel in Dubrovnik near the airport?
The Dubrovnik Airport is quite far from the city center, so it is usually better to find the best place that offers airport transfers. Once you’re in the city, we highly recommend Hostel Angelina – Old Town Dubrovnik Southern, our overall best hostel in Dubrovnik.
Travel Safety Tips for Dubrovnik
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 and Europe
Hopefully, by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Dubrovnik.
Planning an epic backpacking trip across Croatia or even Europe itself?
Don’t worry – I’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides and tips on where to be to stay around Croatia, check out:
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Dubrovnik
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Dubrovnik has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
Get excited, because Dubrovnik is amazing, and this list of the top hostels in Dubrovnik will help you find the best hostel for your personal travel style.
With the help of this bargain guide, you’ll be able to quickly locate a sweet hostel and focus on exploring this amazing city.
So which of the best hostels in Dubrovnik are you going to book? The best party hostel in Dubrovnik? Or the best hostel for solo travellers?
Still can’t pick? Go with Hostel Angelina – Old Town Dubrovnik Southern, my pick for the top hostel in Dubrovnik for 2024
Going on an extended Croatian adventure? Be sure to check out this awesome post on the best hostels in Croatia.
If you think I’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!
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Dubrovnik if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Dubrovnik before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Balkans backpacking guide.
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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
Updated May 2023
