The Best Hotels to Book in Ljubljana

A member of Design Hotels, Vander Urbani is the only hotel on the Ljubljanica River. A 15-minute walk from Ljubljana Castle, the hotel delivers river views, Slovenian dining and a rooftop terrace with a pool and zen massages on request. The present structure is the result of four medieval houses that have been intricately redesigned in a contemporary style: modern lines and soft textures, with beige, grey and light-purple hues for interiors. Home-made dishes bring together local tradition and contemporary cuisine in exciting combinations – don’t miss sauteed prawns or the octopus salad.

Belonging to the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, Antiq Palace is in a refined, palatial noble residence dating back to the 16th century in the very heart of Ljubljana. Interiors are luxuriously decorated in an elegant style, with antique furnishings – and some even feature 300-year-old frescoes. Amenities include a spa with a hot tub, saunas and treatment rooms. The courtyard garden is a quiet place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Set in a former 19th-century military prison, this colourful, art-inspired hostel is close to the train station and walking distance from the city centre. The property features 20 artistically renovated former prison cells, created by different artists – each with its own story and concept. All cells retain metal bars on the doors and windows from the building’s bleaker past. The Point of Peace is a special room for prayer, meditation and relaxation, while two former prison cells are still preserved in the basement. A laid-back restaurant serves great barbecues, while a seasonal garden terrace is the best place for socialising.

On a cobblestone street in the Old Town, Galleria has a rich and intriguing history as one of the oldest buildings in Ljubljana. The medieval property now exists as a four-star boutique hotel, with an intimate lush garden. Newly renovated and refurbished, this polished lodging has 16 snug rooms, with a bright-colour design creating a cosy atmosphere. Love medieval architecture? Choose a room with a castle view, or enjoy your coffee in the room on the first floor, which features old ceiling frescoes.

Hotel Mrak is an informal, family-run establishment set in a classic-style building. The warm, unfussy rooms come with interior graphic designs by artist Julija Zornik Strle – such as original photographs depicting the cultural heritage of the region. The hotel’s bar has a pleasant and warm atmosphere, while the flavours of freshly made pastries and homemade grape juice enhance everyone’s breakfast experience. A quaint garden with a 200-year-old vine is the perfect place to enjoy free time.

Next to the hustle and bustle of a busy city intersection, this stylish hotel is an easy walk to the main attractions in downtown Ljubljana. Built in 1938 by the prestigious architect Jože Šivec, it ranks among the most beautiful examples of high-rise buildings in the capital. Preserving its original charm, Urban Hotel features modern, sophisticated rooms, designed in nuances of grey, green and blue. In the heart of the hotel, the Urban’s Lounge is a place to mingle with friends, savour a rich selection of beverages and enjoy pleasant music.

While it may be on the outskirts of the city, this hip, boutique hotel is close to the airport and surrounded by nature. The interior is well-equipped with wood and a diverse assortment of unique designs. Streamlined, trendy rooms were designed by various Slovenian designers. The chic Nox Lounge has an outdoor terrace and boasts a wine corner – the perfect add-on to your urban experience.

Close to the train station and within walking distance of the city centre, InterContinental Ljubljana is in a contemporary, high-rise tower, with a soaring, modern glass facade and an indoor infinity pool. This upscale property features bright, refined and lavish rooms, with floor-to-ceiling windows, marble bathrooms and stunning views. Stylish dining includes the B-restaurant with exquisite seasonal cuisine, and the B-bar delivers expertly mixed cocktails. All of them combine culinary artistry with a chic rooftop setting and panoramic city views at the tallest hotel in Ljubljana.

In the heart of the city, this straightforward hotel has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It delivers a wide range of unfussy, newly renovated rooms, with modern decor and a completely new visual design. Through the “City within the City” project, a bit of Ljubljana was brought inside each room – with photo-wallpaper showing the magic of the city through the lens of the renowned photographer Žiga Koritnik. A polished restaurant comes with a sunny seasonal terrace, lush greenery and castle views, along with a low-key bar. Pamper your taste buds with local ingredients and healthy foods.

This high-end Art Nouveau hotel is close to the main square and Ljubljana’s famous Triple Bridge. Despite multiple renovations, it has retained its opulent Slovenian design and Secession-style character. Simple, classically furnished rooms, deliver tasteful elegance combined with outstanding comfort and authentic experiences. Foodies can head for the sophisticated Restaurant Union set in a vaulted cellar, or the Union Cafe – a popular meeting place for Ljubljana’s locals for over a century. In summer, don’t miss the terrace garden under the shade of chestnut trees.