Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is an inviting city characterized by its picturesque old town, medieval architecture, and lush parks. Often referred to as the “Green Capital,” the city is nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea in the heart of Europe. Ljubljana is a must-see destination in Central Europe because of its historic charm and eco-friendly urban planning. Keep reading to learn more about the best areas to stay in Ljubljana.
Accommodation Options in Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana’s historical context dates back to Roman times, giving rise to attractions such as Ljubljana Castle, Prešeren Square, and Tivoli Park. Reflecting its rich heritage, tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, and the city offers a range of accommodation choices, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options.
Apart from the main sites mentioned above, Ljubljana offers exciting attractions like the Dragon Bridge – symbolizing strength and courage; Metelkova – a vibrant cultural district; Plečnik House – showcasing Joze Plecnik’s architectural fingerprints; and Neboticnik – a landmark skyscraper offering breathtaking panoramic views.
The atmosphere of Ljubljana is serene yet vibrant. The pedestrian-friendly city center bustles with open-air cafes and markets. While it hosts several international conferences and business events annually, Ljubljana’s true essence lies in its rich culture, making it an ideal destination for work and leisure travelers.
We invite you to continue reading this post to discover more about Ljubljana, find the best area to stay in Ljubljana, and have an unforgettable visit to this enchanting Green Capital.
What’s the best area to stay in Ljubljana?
The best area to stay in Ljubljana is the City Center. Located on the banks of the Ljubljanica River, this area offers easy access to landmarks such as Ljubljana Castle and Triple Bridge. The City Center is known for its historic architecture, dating back to Roman times and the medieval period. With numerous museums, galleries, and cafes, it provides ample opportunities for cultural and historical exploration within a compact, walkable space.
Find available accommodation in Ljubljana’s City Center.
Best Hotels in Ljubljana’s City Center
- Best 5-star hotel: Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel
- Best 4-star hotel: City Hotel Ljubljana
- Best 3-star hotel: Bloom Hotel
- Best budget hotel: Boutique Hotel Asteria
- Best B&B: Serenity Rooms
- Best Airbnb: Apartments Maria
- Best hostel: C – Punkt Hostel
Where to Stay in Ljubljana for Sightseeing, Business & Nightlife
While the city center is the best location to stay in Ljubljana, this attraction-packed area is not the only option around. Other areas can be just as fun and convenient, depending on your interests. These are some recommended areas in Ljubljana for tourists:
- Ljubljana Old Town is the city’s historic core. Located along the Ljubljanica River, it is characterized by its medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and colorful buildings. Major landmarks include Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views, and Preseren Square. The area is also home to the Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge, both impressive landmarks.
- The Ljubljana Train Station area serves as a practical base for those arriving or departing by train. The station itself is a central transport hub in the city. Nearby, Metelkova Mesto offers an alternative cultural scene with art installations and events. The Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova (MSUM) is also located in this area.
- BTC City is situated in northeastern Ljubljana and functions as a commercial district. It is known for its large shopping mall complex offering numerous shops and entertainment options like cinemas and water parks. BTC City also hosts business centers and exhibition spaces.
- North Ljubljana is identified by the presence of Kino Šiška Centre for Urban Culture, a venue hosting concerts, theatrical performances, and exhibitions. This area has a more residential feel but offers green spaces like Tivoli Park, which is nearby and perfect for outdoor activities. Given its proximity to educational institutions, the vicinity includes student accommodations.
Best Areas to Stay in Ljubljana: District by District
1. Old Town Ljubljana
The best area for tourists in Ljubljana
Situated along the Ljubljanica River, the Old Town is the historic heart of Ljubljana. It features medieval streets and buildings.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Ljubljana:
- Central location
- Medieval architecture
- Ljubljana Castle
- Lively atmosphere
- Vibrant markets
- Cobblestone streets
- Picturesque riverside
- Dragon Bridge
- Tivoli Park nearby
- Cafés and restaurants
- Historic Town Hall
- Cultural events and festivals
In the heart of Slovenia’s capital, Old Town Ljubljana offers a blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Its location by the Ljubljanica River, with its narrow streets and squares maze, harkens back to its medieval origins while providing a vibrant urban experience.
The Old Town is home to landmarks such as the Ljubljana Castle, perched on Castle Hill. The castle, dating back to the 11th century but extensively rebuilt in the 15th century, serves as a monument and a venue for cultural events and exhibitions. Down in the town, Prešeren Square is a central point connecting several key streets and showcasing the Franciscan Church with its distinct pink façade.
On either side of Prešeren Square are Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) and the Dragon Bridge. Tromostovje, designed by the renowned architect Jože Plečnik in the early 20th century, creatively connects two parts of the old town while allowing pedestrian traffic to flow freely. Dragon Bridge, constructed at the turn of the 20th century, is notable for its four dragon statues, which symbolize Ljubljana.
The town thrives culturally through its museums and theaters. The National Museum of Slovenia and the Museum of Illusions offer diverse exhibits. Additionally, cultural centers like Cankarjev Dom host concerts, theatre performances, and film screenings.
At night, Old Town transforms as bars and cafes lining the river come alive. Quaint wine bars serve Slovenian vintages, while several clubs offer nightlife along streets like Metelkova, which are famous for their alternative scenes.
Owing to its pedestrian-friendly nature, transportation within Old Town mainly consists of walking or cycling. Public transportation is accessible nearby, with buses covering extensive routes throughout the city. The nearby Ljubljana Station offers further connectivity for regional travel.
Best Hotels in Ljubljana Old Town
Lesar Hotel Angel – Member of Hip Hotels
The luxuriously equipped 4-star Lesar Hotel Angel features a prime location at the foot of Ljubljana Castle Hill, offering spacious and bright accommodations with free Wi-Fi internet access.
Bloom Hotel
Offering an on-site bar and free Wi-Fi. Bloom Hotel is a family-run boutique hotel set in Ljubljana’s Old Town, just beneath Ljubljana Castle and only steps away from Ljubljanica River.
Kollmann Rooms and Apartments
Kollmann Apartments offers air-conditioned accommodations with free Wi-Fi and free laundry service. Conveniently set by the river, all units have satellite TV, fridge, and electric kettle.
AdHoc Hostel
AdHoc Hostel is located in the center of Ljubljana, right next to the Ljubljanica River. It offers private rooms and dorms with shared facilities, free Wi-Fi in public areas, a common TV area with cable channels, and an Internet corner.
2. Ljubljana Train Station & Metelkova
The best-connected area to stay in Ljubljana and a creative hub
Located north of the city center, the Ljubljana Train Station & Metelkova area is convenient and fun.
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Why is this the best area to stay in Ljubljana:
- Central location
- Easy access to public transportation
- Proximity to the old town
- Variety of dining options
- Vibrant cultural hub
- Unique street art
- Lively nightlife
- Eclectic mix of venues
- Historic yet modern
The Ljubljana Train Station area, located in the northern part of the city center, is a significant hub for local and international travelers. The train station itself, built in 1849, is an important landmark and key point of entry and exit for those traveling by rail.
The area is well-known for its accessibility, with numerous tram and bus lines intersecting here, providing easy travel to other parts of the city. For instance, buses on routes 2, 6, and 9 frequently run through this area, while trams provide direct access to popular districts like Bežigrad and Šiška.
Metelkova, an internationally recognized autonomous cultural center, is a short walk from the train station. Initially established in 1993 on the site of former military barracks, Metelkova has transformed into a vibrant alternative community. It’s known for its striking graffiti-covered buildings and hosts a variety of art studios, nightclubs, bars, and galleries. Metelkova’s offerings include live music performances ranging from punk to electronic genres, art exhibitions, and theater productions.
For those interested in history and culture, the Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova (MSUM) is located within the area. This institution specializes in contemporary art from the mid-20th century onwards and provides insightful temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent collection.
Best Hotels in Metelkokva and around Ljubljana Train Station
Grand Plaza Hotel & Congress Center
Located in Ljubljana, a 9-minute walk from Ljubljana Train Station, the Grand Plaza Hotel & Congress Center provides accommodations with a fitness center, private parking, a garden, and a restaurant.
NEU RESIDENCES smart stay
NEU RESIDENCES smart stay offers accommodations within 700 yards of the center of Ljubljana, with free Wifi and a kitchen with an oven, a fridge, and a stovetop. Private parking is available on-site.
Boutique Hotel Asteria
Boutique Hotel Asteria is set in the center of Ljubljana, steps away from the Railway Station and the Metelkova area. Guests can enjoy the on-site common lounge area and a bar. Free WiFi is provided.
ibis Styles Ljubljana Centre
ibis Styles Ljubljana Center features The Rooftop Central, a stunning rooftop venue offering a breathtaking view of the Ljubljana Castle. Free WiFi is provided in all areas.
3. BTC City
A great shopping destination
Situated in the northeast part of Ljubljana, BTC City is a large shopping district known for its commercial centers like Citypark.
BTC City is a sprawling commercial and entertainment complex located in the northeastern part of Ljubljana, Slovenia. Conveniently situated near major arterial roads like the H3 motorway, it offers easy access. As the largest shopping and business center in the country, BTC City serves not just as a retail hub but as a vibrant community unto itself.
BTC City’s history dates back to 1954 when it was originally established as a warehouse and logistics center. Over the years, it has undergone transformations to become what it is today: a multi-functional area that includes shopping malls, sports facilities, a waterpark, cinemas, and dining options. Its development has mirrored Slovenia’s rapid economic growth.
Key attractions within BTC City include the Atlantis Water Park, which features numerous pools, saunas, and wellness areas. The Crystal Palace is another landmark; standing at 89 meters tall, it is one of the highest buildings in Slovenia. It hosts several offices along with observation decks providing panoramic views of Ljubljana. For shopping enthusiasts, thousands of stores sell everything from high-end fashion to everyday necessities.
Multiple bus lines connect the complex to various parts of Ljubljana. The city’s main train station is also only a short ride away.
Best Hotels in BTC City
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Ljubljana
Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Ljubljana is a 4-star superior hotel located in Ljubljana and offers an à-la-carte restaurant, conference rooms and a gym. It features modern-style accommodations with free WiFi.
4. North Ljubljana
A quiet and green area to stay in Ljubljana
Found in the northern part of the city, North Ljubljana is recognized for its contemporary culture.
North Ljubljana is a great area for accommodation due to its dynamic blend of culture, nature, and convenience. This locale is well-regarded for its modern amenities and cultural offerings.
At the forefront of North Ljubljana’s cultural landscape is Kino Šiška, a contemporary center for urban culture that opened in 2009. This venue hosts many events like concerts, theater performances, exhibitions, and more. Built on the site of an old cinema and now equipped with top-notch facilities, it has quickly become a hub for alternative and mainstream artistic expressions in Ljubljana.
Another significant attraction in North Ljubljana is Tivoli Park. Spread across approximately five square kilometers, Tivoli Park is Ljubljana’s largest open space. Established in 1813, the park combines elements of historic gardens and natural woodland. Its central promenade, designed by architect Jože Plečnik in the 1930s, is flanked by chestnut trees leading up to Tivoli Castle. Within the park, visitors can explore numerous trails for walking and cycling.
In terms of nightlife and dining, North Ljubljana offers a range of options from casual bistros to fine dining establishments. The area is known for its vibrant social scene.
Transportation in North Ljubljana is efficient and well-connected to other parts of the city. Several bus lines such as numbers 1, 3, and 6 have multiple stops throughout the area. Furthermore, Ljubljana’s main train station is within a reasonable distance, providing direct links to both domestic destinations and neighboring countries.
Best Hotels in North Ljubljana
M Hotel
Completely renovated in 2017 and offering bright and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi access, M Hotel is located within walking distance from the center of Ljubljana. A local bus stop with frequent lines to the center is next to the hotel.
