Where to stay in Ljubljana
Ljubljana is compact and walkable, with the Ljubljanica River running through the middle of it. The old town sits on both banks, the castle rises above it, and the streets between the river and the railway and bus stations form the core that most visitors never need to leave on foot.
For a visitor, the practical question is which side of that core to base yourself on. The centre puts you within walking distance of the riverfront, the bridges and the castle; the streets around the main station and the student district of Tabor are a short walk north-east of the old town; Tivoli Park and the districts around it sit to the west; and a handful of places lie further out along bus routes. This guide covers the areas the sources describe, what kind of traveller each suits, and how each connects to the rest of the city.
Best areas to stay in Ljubljana
1. The old town and city centre
The area around the Ljubljanica, the Triple Bridge and the Dragon Bridge, and the streets running back from them towards Slovenska cesta and Miklošičeva cesta, is the most central place to base yourself. This is where you find the largest concentration of accommodation, from small central hostels to mid-range hotels and large Art Nouveau and chain hotels, several of them on Miklošičeva cesta within a few hundred metres of the bus and train stations.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants the riverfront, the bridges and the castle within a walk. Note that central hotels generally do not have their own parking, so if you arrive by car you will be paying central parking rates.
2. Around the railway and bus stations
The streets immediately south and east of the main station, including the Metelkova area, are a practical base for arrivals and departures by train or bus. Hostels and hotels here sit within a short walk of the old town, and the station itself is the hub for city buses out to the further districts.
This suits budget travellers and anyone on a short stay who values easy transport connections over a quiet setting. It is also the area to consider if you plan day trips, since both the railway and bus stations are here.
3. Tabor
Tabor lies north-east of the centre, within walking distance of the old town and served by its own bus routes. It is a mixed area with mid-range and budget places, including larger hotels with a high number of rooms.
It suits travellers who want to be close to the centre without being in the middle of it, and those who prefer a slightly quieter street to sleep on. Buses connect it to the rest of the city.
4. Tivoli Park and the western districts
The area around Tivoli Park, including Rožna Dolina, is the green western side of the city. Accommodation here is limited and small-scale, with a few places in quiet residential streets and one larger hotel by the park.
It suits travellers who want calm, green surroundings and do not mind being a walk or a short bus ride from the old town. If you are driving, the western edge of the city is also where you find business-style hotels convenient for motorists.
5. Further out along the bus routes
A number of places sit several kilometres from the centre, on the eastern, north-western and north-eastern edges of the city, along bus routes into town. There is also a camping and caravan site on the edge of town by the River Sava, north of the centre, with rooms as well as pitches.
This suits motorists, campers and travellers who prioritise space or parking over walking distance. Check the bus connection before you book, as these areas are not walkable to the sights.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: dorm beds in small central hostels, hostels in the station and Metelkova area, budget rooms in student residences open only in summer, and budget rooms in villas on the western side of town. Some larger hotels also run hostel-style accommodation alongside their regular rooms.
- Mid-range: small central hotels and pensions, larger functional hotels in and around the centre and in Tabor, and quiet small hotels in the western districts. Expect private rooms and breakfast, with parking sometimes unavailable in the most central locations.
- Splurge: large modern chain and business hotels, including historic Art Nouveau buildings in the centre and modern high-rise hotels near Tivoli Park and on the western edge of the city, some with restaurants, fitness facilities, saunas and pools.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the old town and city centre. It puts the riverfront, the bridges, the castle and the main streets within walking distance, and it keeps you close to the bus and train stations for day trips. If central prices or availability do not suit you, the streets around the stations and Tabor are the next best choice, since both are still walkable to the sights.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car to get around Ljubljana?
No. The centre is compact and walkable, and the areas further out are served by city buses. If you do drive, note that central hotels generally lack their own parking, and you will pay central parking rates.
Which area is best if I arrive by train or bus?
The streets around the railway and bus stations, including the Metelkova area, are the most practical, with hostels and hotels within a short walk of both the stations and the old town.
Where can I camp near Ljubljana?
There is a camping and caravan site on the edge of town by the River Sava, north of the centre, reachable by city bus. It also has rooms for bed and breakfast.
Are there quiet places to stay away from the centre?
Yes. The western districts around Tivoli Park and Rožna Dolina are quiet and green, with a small number of places, and are a walk or short bus ride from the old town.
Compare live prices for the areas that suit you using the booking tools on this page.