Twin Room
- 2 Single beds,1 Double bed,1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
Hotel · Ljubljana · Osrednjeslovenska
Hostel Celica - Ljubljana
A creatively converted former prison in the heart of Ljubljana's alternative Metelkova district.
- Former prison transformed into an art hostel
- 24-hour reception and secure key card access
- On-site parking and EV charging station
8.8
Great
860 reviews
Booking.com 8.8 · 860 reviews
About
Hostel Celica - Ljubljana
Hostel Celica is a designer 2-star hostel set within a former military prison, now a creative hub in Ljubljana's alternative Metelkova quarter. Each room is uniquely decorated by artists, preserving the building's history while offering modern comforts like air conditioning and free Wi-Fi throughout. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including a shared kitchen, a bar/lounge area, a terrace, and access to a garden, making it a lively social base for exploring the city.
The hostel offers a variety of accommodation options, from private double and twin rooms to dormitories, including a female-only dorm. With a 24-hour reception, secure key card access, and a safe deposit box, it balances its unconventional character with practicality. An on-site parking and electric vehicle charging station make it convenient for those arriving by car, while the paid airport shuttle and car hire services simplify further travel.
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- Pets allowed
In brief
What works, what to weigh
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Strengths
4 reasons to book- Unforgettable, artistic setting — The former prison cells are now individually designed works of art, offering a unique and memorable stay in a creatively repurposed historic building.
- Central and convenient location — Set in the vibrant Metelkova area, the hostel is close to the train and bus station, and a short walk from major sights like Tivoli Park and the Museum of Illusions.
- Friendly, helpful staff — Guests repeatedly praise the warm and accommodating staff, who are knowledgeable about the area and organize social events like BBQs and live music.
- Good value and inclusive breakfast — With affordable rates and a breakfast buffet that includes vegetarian options, the hostel offers solid value for its central location and unique experience.
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Worth weighing
4 to weigh- Basic shared bathroom facilities — Many rooms, including some private options, require the use of shared bathrooms, which may not suit travelers seeking en-suite privacy.
- Potential for noise in common areas — The lively social atmosphere, with live entertainment and a busy bar, might be too energetic for those wanting a quiet night's rest.
- Check-in window is limited — While reception is 24-hour, check-in is only available between 15:00 and 23:59, which could be inconvenient for late-night arrivals.
- Historical building may have quirks — The prison architecture, with original cells and converted spaces, may not suit everyone, especially those expecting conventional hotel rooms.
01 — Rooms
Rooms & rates
High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.
Shared Bathroom Double Room
- 1 Double bed,1 King-size bed
Dormitory Room
- 1 Bed in shared room
4 Bed Dormitory Room Dormitory Room
- 1 Bed in shared room
Dormitory Room Female only
- 1 Bed in shared room
Private Bathroom Quadruple Room
- Sleeping arrangements for 4 persons
Basic Shared Bathroom Triple Room
- Sleeping arrangements for 3 persons
02 — Amenities
Services & amenities
Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.
Basic
- Wi-Fi
- Air conditioning
- Heating
- No smoking on site
Food & Drink
- Bar/Lounge area
- Coffee shop
- Shared kitchen
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
- Happy hour
Services
- 24-hour reception
- 24-hour security
- Luggage storage
- Locker room
- Laundry
- Tours/Ticket assistance
- Car hire
- Paid airport shuttle
Entertainment & Leisure
- Live entertainment
- Leisure/TV room
- Board games
- Garden area
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
Accessibility & Safety
- Rooms/Facilities for disabled
- Safe deposit box
- Key card access
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
Photos
Gallery
03 — Reviews
What guests say
Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.
Guest-rated 8.8/10 from 860 reviews
Booking.com · 8.8 · 860 reviews
8.8Verified guest“I had an amazing time at this buzzing hostel, meeting interesting people from all over. The building, a former prison, has been beautifully rebuilt and shows creativity and solidarity. Each room is a unique work of art and surprisingly comfortable with AC. The recreation rooms and kitchen were a nice bonus.”
8.8Verified guest“It was a unique place, the people were very helpful and accommodating, it was a 'must' experience.”
8.8Verified guest“Stylish, comfortable, warm. Comfortable beds. Decent breakfast. Inner yard. 24h reception. Large common area with a cafe and dining room.”
8.8Verified guest“Amazing location, helpful staff, easy check-in/out, free printer, cheap price, inclusive breakfast.”
8.8Verified guest“Well-designed special building, spotless and in a quirky setting.”
8.8Verified guest“Fun experience to sleep in a former cell. Great events organized by the staff, including all-you-can-eat BBQ and cheap drinks. Good location and good price.”
04 — Location
Getting around Ljubljana
The property sits in Ljubljana.
Metelkova: The hostel sits right in Metelkova, Ljubljana's self-managed cultural center known for its street art, alternative venues, and vibrant nightlife.
Tivoli Park: Just a short stroll away, Tivoli Park offers green spaces, walking paths, and the Tivoli Castle, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Museum of Illusions: About a 19-minute walk from the hostel, this interactive museum is a fun and mind-bending attraction for all ages.
Metelkova 8, Ljubljana, Osrednjeslovenska, 1000, Slovenia
05 — Good to know
Policies & conditions
Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.
- Check-in
- From 15:00-23:59
- Check-out
- By 11:00
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
- Payment
- Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
- Pets
- Allowed
- Property
- 62 rooms
06 — Questions
Frequently asked
What are the check-in and check-out times at Hostel Celica?
Check-in is from 15:00 to 23:59, and check-out is by 11:00.
Does Hostel Celica offer parking?
Yes, there is parking on site, including an electric vehicle charging station. Note that there is a parking fee, as mentioned in the description.
Are pets allowed at Hostel Celica?
Yes, pets are allowed at the hostel.
Is breakfast included in the stay?
The hostel offers a breakfast buffet, which has been described as 'inclusive' in reviews. It includes vegetarian options such as avocado.
What room types are available?
The hostel offers twin rooms, double rooms with shared bathroom, dormitories (including a female-only dorm), a private quadruple room, and a basic triple room with shared bathroom.
Does the hostel have air conditioning?
Yes, air conditioning is available in the rooms, as mentioned in the description and guest reviews.
The bottom line
Hostel Celica offers a one-of-a-kind stay in Ljubljana's alternative quarter—ideal for travelers who value character and community over conventional luxury.
8.8Best for adventurous travelers and culture enthusiasts seeking an authentic, artistic base.
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