Chances are if you are heading to Slovenia, you’ll at least make a pit stop in it’s capital and largest city – Ljubljana.
If you want to feel like you’ve stepped straight into a fairy tale than this is the place for you. From picturesque bridges, charming old-town squares, and a castle that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook, you’re bound to feel like a fairy in no time.
Ljubljana might be a tongue-twister (don’t worry, I don’t know how to pronounce it either), but did I mention it’s one of the cheapest places to backpack in Europe?
As awesome as Ljubljana is, there are only a handful of hostels, and they get booked quickly. That’s why I’ve braved the best and survived the worst to bring you the ultimate guide to the best hostels in Ljubljana.
All the hostels on this list have solid reviews – no sketchy dives here!
I’ve organised the hostels by categories so whether you’re looking for a vibrant party scene, a quiet nook to relax and work, or a hub to launch your daily adventures, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s get this hostel hunt started, shall we?
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Ljubljana
- Best Overall Hostel in Ljubljana – Hostel Vrba
- Best Hostel in Ljubljana for Solo Travelers – Hostel Tabor
- Best Cheap Hostel in Ljubljana – Fluxus Hostel
- Best Party Hostel in Ljubljana – Hostel Celica
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Ljubljana – Turn Hostel
The 5 Best Hostels in Ljubljana
Here it is – the crème de la crème of Ljubljana’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring the city ASAP.
1. Hostel Vrba – Best Overall Hostel in Ljubljana
- Dorm (mixed): From $28/night
- Private Room: From $86/night
- Address: Gradaška ulica 10, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Hostel Vrba reigns supreme in Ljubljana, earning rave reviews time and again. It’s no secret that the staff can make or break a hostel experience, and Aleks and his legendary team are known to move heaven and earth to ensure your stay is nothing short of epic.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Chill vibes…
- Traditional Slovenian meals are offered.
- Amazing staff.
Hostel Vrba is a bright and modern hostel in Ljubljana and the dorm beds are the perfect size to spread out in. You’re sure to get a good night’s sleep in either the mixed dorm or female-only dorm, ensuring you’re bright-eyed and bushy-tailed to explore the city centre come sunrise.
The common room and kitchen area are where you’ll find your hostel buddies hanging out. So it’s time to show off your cooking skills and get chatting with other travellers to get hidden gems and tips on where to go next!
There’s a genuine sense of belonging at Hostel Vrba; you’ll feel like part of the family from the moment you walk through the door. What more could you ask for from a hostel?
2. Hostel Tabor – Best Hostel in Ljubljana for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $27/night
- Private Room: From $60-$80/night
- Address: Kotnikova ulica 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Hostel Tabor is the best hostel for solo travellers in Ljubljana! It has that perfect mix of chill-out vibes and a social atmosphere that makes it perfect for meeting travel buddies!
It’s got a fantastic central location too! You’re right in the heart of this quirky city centre and perfectly positioned to take off exploring all of the best of the city’s attractions. It’s definitely one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Ljubljana.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free private parking.
- Free breakfast.
- 24-hour security.
The spacious common areas are perfect for meeting new people. You can all watch a game on the big TV or play cards, stretched out on the floor. It’s such a comfy atmosphere!
The dorms are also spacious, so you can chat with people, without feeling like you’re on top of them! Make sure you take advantage of the laundry facilities to wash those smelly socks of yours.
And if you don’t feel like eating out, there’s an awesome kitchen that is well-equipped for you to cook up a storm. If you do want to go out, the staff are more than happy to point you in the right direction for a good night out. They want nothing more than for you to have an epic time!
While the location is super central, you never feel like you’re too close. The hostel is a quiet retreat in the city centre. So get your butt down here, meet some new people, and have an epic adventure in Ljubljana!
3. Fluxus Hostel – Best Cheap Hostel in Ljubljana
- Dorm (mixed): From $32/night
- Address: Tomši?eva 4, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
If you’re the kind of traveller who likes their adventures with a side of quirky, this place is your match made in hostel heaven. Guests often say it feels more like a home than a pit stop, making it the perfect base for your Ljubljana adventures.
But let’s not forget the cherry on top: the price. Fluxus Hostel gives you a lot of bang for your buck, leaving you plenty of euros for that extra shot of Slovenian schnapps or a few more postcards home.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Air-conditioned rooms
- Great communal areas.
- Friendly staff.
Although not a party hostel itself with Ljubljana’s hottest clubs, TOP 6, Cirkus, Disco club and K4, just a matter of steps away you and the Fluxus gang can get out and about together no worries.
There is no curfew either – meaning you can roll into your bed after some questionable life decisions at any time you like! The dorm beds strike the perfect balance – not too big, not too small, just right for catching some zzz’s. And if you’re craving a bit more privacy, there are private rooms to give you space to spread out and recharge. If you’re looking for a place that’s bursting with character, centrally located, and easy on the wallet, Fluxus Hostel is your ticket to a top-notch Slovenian adventure.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Hostel Celica – Best Party Hostel in Ljubljana
- Dorm (mixed): From $37/night
- Private Room: From $100-$150/night
- Address: Metelkova 8, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
This is not only the best party hostel in Ljubljana but one of the best hostels – period! It has a lively atmosphere and heaps of events going on to keep you entertained, plus an excellent location to you’re well-positioned to go exploring.
Rated a top hostel by everyone – from Lonely Planet to Rough Guides – you know you’re in expert hands when you stay here. The staff simply know what you need when you’re on the road. Plus, it’s always a good time for a party here.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free entry to Tuesday concerts.
- No curfew!
- Free breakfast!
The design of the hostel is very unique as it was once a prison (yup, you heard me right!) So you can spend a night in a refurbished cell – but don’t forget to come down and enjoy the party…
This modern hostel is adorned in bright colours with heaps of common areas to chill out and meet new people in. So when you’re done hitting the pubs, you can chill out in the hammocks and maybe play a board game.
The staff here are pros at keeping the fun going with all-you-can-eat BBQ nights and free concerts. It’s the perfect way to kick off your evening before exploring Ljubljana’s nightlife with your new crew.
Beyond its social scene, the hostel boasts essential amenities for a comfortable stay, including a spacious kitchen where you can whip up your own meals without the hassle of crowding.
5. Turn Hostel – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Ljubljana
- Dorm (mixed): From $44/night
- Private Room: From $X/night
- Address: Mala ulica 8, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
You’ll find the Turn Hostel right in the centre of Ljubljana, 1 minute away from the Triple Bridge. It’s a perfect location right in the heart of the city centre that is pedestrianised – central and quiet!
There are spacious, comfortable rooms that are perfect for you to buckle down and get some work done while also enjoying a vibrant hostel atmosphere.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free, high-speed internet.
- Modern design.
- Hair dryers in every bathroom.
The dorm rooms here are cosy and clean. Each bed comes with its own USB ports and a reading lamp so they can be a perfect place for you to do some late-night (or early morning) work!
The bathrooms here are worth a special mention – they’re spacious and include a hairdryer and changing space right outside the showers. It’s the perfect chance to get yourself cleaned up and refreshed after being on the road.
This is a clean and bright hostel that provides the perfect space to get work done. There are also lovely common spaces to meet other travellers in and a friendly staff that does everything to make sure your stay is perfect.
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Ljubljana Hostels
If those hostels didn’t quite scratch the itch for the perfect hostel, then I’ve got a few more options up my sleeve! I’ve listed more epic hostels in Ljubljana below.
6. Adhoc Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $30/night
- Private Room: From $106/night
- Address: Cankarjevo nabrezje 27, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Adhoc Hostel is an ideal modern hostel in Ljubljana for digital nomads. With just the right balance of chilled-out vibes and a buzzy atmosphere, Adhoc Hostel makes it easy for you to meet and mingle, and get a heap of work done too.
There is a homeliness to Adhoc Hostel that digital nomads will appreciate. You are welcome to use the hostel’s free WiFi, guest kitchen and washing machine to help you stay on top of the ‘life admin’ that often goes amiss for digital nomads (booooring).
The staff are super helpful and will gladly help with any questions and queries you might have.
7. H2O Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $40/night
- Private Room: From $78/night
- Address: Petkovškovo nabrežje 47, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Looking for a cosy spot for you and your partner? H2O Hostel has got you covered with affordable and spacious private rooms made for couples on the go.
Sure, you’ve got your own retreat for a good night’s sleep, but H2O is all about mixing and mingling. H2O has a great social vibe, so although you’ll lock yourselves away to sleep there is no shortage of opportunities to get to know your hostel neighbours.
When it’s time to eat or hit the town, there’s no shortage of cool spots nearby. If you need tips on where to start just ask the friendly folks at H2O – they’ve got the inside scoop on aaaaaall the best hidden gems and local hangouts.
8. Most Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $30-$40/night
- Private Room: From $67/night
- Address: Petkovškovo nabrežje 41A, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Loved by all who visit, Most Hostel is a great Ljubljana hostel for those backpacking the Balkans for so many reasons. The staff are some of the most accommodating you will ever find. Arriving at 3am? No worries! Need to store your bag for a couple of days?! Of course!
The place is pretty simple but has everything you could ask for; free WiFi, a guest kitchen, comfy beds…sorted! Located next to Dragon Bridge, staying at Most Hostel puts you right at the heart of the action in Ljubljana.
FYI – they don’t have a card machine, so bring enough cash to pay for your room!
9. Hostel Tivoli
- Dorm (mixed): From $33/night
- Private Room: From $101/night
- Address: Lepodvorska ulica 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Hostel Tivoli is a superb youth hostel in Ljubljana that can’t stop the rave reviews from rolling in. No doubt about it, Hostel Tivoli offers the best hostel breakfast around, and free tea and coffee throughout the day too.
The space is modern and the dorm beds are cosy and comfortable. Hostel Tivoli ticks all the boxes on the facilities front; guest kitchen, laundry facilities, free WiFi, luggage storage and housekeeping too.
The staff make a real effort to bring all their guests together for social events like their blueberry schnapps night so you can drink like a local! Not to be missed!
10. Sax Pub Hostel
- Dorm (mixed): From $40/night
- Private Room: From $60/night
- Address: 7 Eipprova ulica, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
You’ll find this epic hostel under the roof of Ljubljana’s legendary jazz pub, Sax Pub. Hip, trendy and music-mad, Sax Hostel is the place to stay if you wanna party, dance and generally let loose in Ljubljana. Be sure to time your visit with live music on Thursdays, if you can.
At Sax Hostel, the drinks are cheap, and the atmosphere is always buzzing. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the top hostels in Ljubljana. If you wanna get out and about ask to hire one of the hostel bikes and explore the three bridges of Ljubljana and more.
11. Hostel 24
- Dorm (mixed): From $37/night
- Private Room: From $70-$130/night
- Address: 7 Eipprova ulica, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Hostel 24 is a top Ljubljana hostel, there’s no type of traveller for which Hostel 24 is not a perfect fit. With private and dorm rooms, Hostel 24 is great for couples.
With a lively cafe and common room, this is the perfect modern hostel for solo travellers and the free, unlimited WiFi is perfect for digital nomads.
You can even bring your pet to stay at Hostel 24, for just €5 a night. Who doesn’t want to take their dog on an adventure around Slovenia?! Hostel 24 is within walking distance to the central train and bus station which makes getting about the city super easy.
12. Vila Veselova
- Dorm (mixed): From $20/night
- Private Room: From $43-$140/night
- Address: Veselova ulica 14, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
It is a good job that Vila Veselova offers a late checkout as you will want to max out on every minute possible at this epic Ljubljana hostel! Offering free breakfast, free WiFi and a free smile daily too, Vila Veselova is the perfect place for solo travellers.
Vila Veselova is set in the former home of famous Slovenian architect Ciril Metod Koch, so you would be staying in a piece of Slovenian heritage, always a pleasure!
For solo travellers looking to find a new crew in Lubjiana Vila Veselova is a great shout. You are always busy and buzzing you are bound to find your new BFF in the common room, at the cafe, or even on the sun-trapped terrace.
13. Tresor Hostel
Let’s be honest, when you’re travelling to a city as exciting as Ljubljana you are only ever in need of a place to crash, shower and charge your phone. Right?
Tresor Hostel is the perfect place to crash if you’re trying to find cheap accommodation. The dorm beds are cosy, comfortable, and clean. Perfect! They have been partitioned for extra privacy, and yet they still feel warm and welcoming. You can get into them using a card or bracelet that you are given on arrival – so you can sleep easy knowing they are safe and secure.
There are two great common areas here, too. There’s an atrium with plenty of gorgeous sunlight to chill out in during the day and a cosy basement-style common area for a few drinks at night! There’s a real buzz to Tresor Hostel that goes a long way in making it a great place to stay in Ljubljana. The hostel prices per night make it one of the cheapest places to stay in the city too! Talk about value for money.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Ljubljana
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Ljubljana.
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.
FAQ about Hostels in Ljubljana
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Ljubljana.
What to Pack for your Ljubljana 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 my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Ljubljana?
The average price of hostels in Ljubljana can range from $26– $45+ per night. Sure, if you want a private room, you’ll need to dig a bit deeper into your backpacker budget. And, as always, the more bunk beds you squeeze into a dorm, the cheaper it gets per night.
What are the best hostels in Ljubljana for couples?
H2O Hostel is a highly-rated hostel for couples in Ljubljana. The iconic three bridges of Ljubljana are within walking distance so you’ll be close to the best sights and sounds of the city which is super romantic.
What is the best hostel in Ljubljana near the airport?
While there aren’t any hostels in Ljubljana that are particularly close to the Ljubljana Jože Pucnik Airport, some offer airport shuttles or will help you arrange transport. Check the Adhoc Hostel, the dorms are cosy and comfortable so you can get a good night’s kip before your flight.
Final Thoughts on Ljubljana’s Hostels
Ljubljana is one of Europe’s hidden gems and is just DYING to be discovered. And when it comes to hostels, there are simply so many good ones to choose from! Whether you prefer chilling out in a laid-back hostel or diving into the heart of the city at one of the epic party spots, there’s something here for every traveller.
Now find your hostel and be sure to book it before it gets booked by someone else!
From live music sessions at Sax Pub Hostel to the epic parties at Hostel Celica, each hostel brings its own vibe to Ljubljana’s vibrant hostel scene.
Your ticket to an authentic Slovenian experience without breaking the bank is in one of these hostels so get out whilst this hidden gem is exactly that – hidden!
And hey, if you discover any hidden gems or must-try spots along the way, drop me a comment – I’m always looking for the best new spot in town. Happy travels!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Slovenia for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Ljubljana before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Balkans backpacking guide.
Made it this far?
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