Zdravo and welcome to the best hostels in Croatia! We want to congratulate you on two things. For choosing Croatia as your next destination, and for finding this complete backpacking guide to save time, and money and discover fun and cool hostels.
This guide covers famous cities like Zagreb and Split, plus smaller places you may not have heard of such as Zadar.
Are these really the best hostels in Croatia?
100% YES, there is no question about it!
List of Destinations with the Best Hostels in Croatia
There’s no time to waste. Let’s jump right in and discover boutique hostels in Croatia.
The destinations we cover in this guide, from North to South are:
- Rijeka
- Pula
- Zagreb
- Osijek
- Korenica (Plitvice Lakes)
- Zadar
- Sibenik
- Trogir
- Split
- Hvar
- Korcula Island
- Dubrovnik
- Full map with hostels + sights
- FAQ
I created this map to help you backpack Croatia. We have actually been many many times to this country. So we know it pretty well and know which Croatia Itinerary for 7 days makes sense – and whatnot.
My Best Hostels in Croatia for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights
Honestly, the quality of hostels in Croatia is seriously high. This is across the board, not just in certain destinations. Anyone backpacking in Croatia best gets ready for outdoor swimming pools, cozy pod beds, and chic designs.
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
And never fear dear budget travelers – the standards are high yet the hostels are still affordable. Win-win! To excite you further, we also have a fantastic 5 5-star hostel in Zagreb with a fun name, Swanky Mint.
We are Hostelgeeks and we discover the world’s greatest hostels, including the coolest backpackers’ places to stay in Croatia.
If you’re looking to discover the best party hostels in Croatia, we’ve got you covered. You’ll spot a big hostel and itinerary map which is really helpful for your planning. Let’s go!
So, pay attention to this map and keep scrolling if you want to stay at the coolest hostels in Croatia!
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| ⭐ 5 Star Hostel in Zagreb: | Swanky Mint Hostel |
| 🏰 Best Hostel in Dubrovnik: | Hostel Angelina Old Town |
| 🏞️ Best Hostel in Korenica: | Falling Lakes Hostel |
| 🌊 Best Hostel in Sibenik: | Scala Hostel |
| 👫 Best for Socializing in Split: | Split Guesthouse & Hostel |
| 🎒 Best for Backpackers in Trogir: | City Hostel Trogir |
| 🏝️ Best for Sea-Lovers in Hvar: | Hostel Villa Skansi |
| 🧘 Best Cosy Hostel in Zadar: | Downtown Boutique Hostel |
Best Hostels in Rijeka: Hostel Fun
Hostel Fun, one of Croatia’s best hostels, is situated right by the sea and offers stunning views and refreshing sea air.
Located a 15-20 minute walk from Rijeka city center, they have comfy and air-conditioned rooms with lockers and a shared bathroom.
Their cool veranda is the perfect place to relax after a busy day, and travelers love the social setting by the ocean. Keep in mind that the beach they are right in front of is dog-friendly, so if you don’t like dogs, this one might not be it.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | HostelZ
Best Hostels in Zagreb
Right then, Zagreb. This is certainly your gateway to the party scene and rich culture of Croatia.
That’s why it wouldn’t have been fair to offer you less than 3 great hostels.
They are:
To get a superb idea of how great they really are, check out our full guide to the 3 best hostels in Zagreb and an extension of the guide to the best party hostels in Zagreb.
1. Swanky Mint Hostel
The idea of staying in an old dry cleaning factory is nothing but exciting thanks to Swanky Mint Hostel.
Our one and only 5 Star Hostel in Croatia, you know it’s going to be good! We wrote a detailed review of Swanky here.
This is equally a top choice for party lovers and female solo travelers looking to socialize.
Why? Well, that’s easy. Because of the…
- Rooftop pool
- 2 on-site bars w/ welcome shot
- Big, small, private + mixed rooms
- Live music + DJs
- Free walking tour
There’s so much more you need to know so head over to our full guide to Swanky Mint.
Location: right in the center with everything you need/want accessible by foot.
Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Main Square Hostel
Welcome to a modern hostel that offers a city guide to Zagreb in its design.
Main Square Hostel offers spacious rooms with solo travelers and small groups in mind. They even have a little seating area.
Enjoy free Wi-Fi, vending machines if you get peckish, and a fun game on the Play Station 4. There are two TVs so no need to fight if a movie is preferred.
Location: you guessed it, Main Square is located in the heart of the city. From here you are just steps away from Ban Jelacic Square and must-see attractions.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. The Dots Hostel
Affordable, snazzy, and great for solo travelers as well as groups. The Dots Hostel is a great choice in Zagreb!
Hostel bar? Check. Bike rentals? We got you covered.
Comfort is taken seriously here. The dorm beds come with lockers and a personal reading light for that extra bit of homely feeling.
Location: enjoy a central location with top sights less than a kilometer away.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Osijek: Hostel OS
Hostel OS, nestled in a historic 1866 building, offers modern, air-conditioned rooms and an amazing location in central Osijek. This gem is near must-visit sites like St. Peter and Paul’s Cathedral, Main Square Ante Starčević, and the Croatian National Theater.
Read: Best Beach Hostels in Europe
It has 36 cozy beds and facilities surpassing typical hostel standards.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Korenica: Falling Lakes Hostel
Falling Lakes Hostel is calling all adventure and nature enthusiasts!
If trekking, kayaking, and waterfall jumping are your kind of thing, we’re pretty sure you’ll feel at home here.
This sustainable-led hostel has comfy dorms with custom-made bunks and a common area with games and locally brewed beer for sale.
Of course, there is also free wi-fi, a fully-equipped kitchen, and luggage storage.
Location: This hostel in Korenica would be the nearest option for Plitvice Lakes if you are traveling solo. They offer shuttle service, pick up, and organize activities in the area.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Zadar: Downtown Boutique Hostel
Downtown Boutique Hostel is, without a doubt, a modern place for world travelers – no matter the age!
The design will certainly stop you in your tracks. How beautiful are the dorms?! So much space, comfort, and privacy to be enjoyed here.
Tip: treat yourself to a private room and enjoy a free breakfast each morning.
Yet that’s not all. Downstairs is a nice restaurant and feel free to chillax in the lounge area.
Reception is open 24/7 so say goodbye to a boring curfew.
Location: within the heart of Old Town Zadar, you’re in for a treat. A striking 9th-century Church of Saint Donatus is less than 200 yards away.
Psst! This is just one of the 3 best hostels in Zadar – read the guide to find out more.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Sibenik
Unlike other destinations with the greatest hostels in Croatia, we’ve found not one, two but three great choices for you in Sibenik.
Get ready to discover:
1. Hostel Splendido
This splendid little number is a breath of fresh air thanks to its bright design and modern spaces.
Hostel Splendido will entice you with the…
- Available breakfast
- Kitchen & BBQ area
- Garden (with turtles!)
- Free Wifi
Choose between shared dorms and private rooms. We envision female solo travelers loving it here, perhaps because of the warming pink and purple tones.
Location: Just a 5-minute walk to the Old Town and seaside. The bus terminal is a few steps away. Ask the friendly staff for bus info to/from Krka National Park.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Hostel Scala
Renovated from an old family home, built with traditional materials, and the only hostel in Sibenik offering an outdoor swimming pool – welcome to Hostel Scala!
Should you need some shade, there is also a large roof terrace with comfy lounge chairs. Yes please and thank you.
This is a cozy accommodation offering a private room or 5-bed dorm. Both come with an en-suite.
Very much a relaxed vibe, we recommended Scala for couples and traveling friends.
Location: The main square is 150m away, and a handy bus terminal is a 5-minute walk.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Hostel Sv.Lovre
How about a slice of botanical chic style? Yep, it’s the first time we’ve come across this too, and we love it.
The incredible medieval Mediterranean garden is an oasis and without a doubt the coolest part of Hostel Sv.Lovre.
To add to this, there is also a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views.
Chill out in the lounge area and enjoy solid bunk beds within simple, yet comfortable rooms.
Location: from here the beach is just a 15-minute walk away. It’s in a central location with the Cathedral of St. James pretty much on the doorstep.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Trogir
Let’s head down to the Adriatic coast of Croatia to visit the preserved old town of Trogir.
Well known for its Renaissance, baroque, and Romanesque buildings – this destination is a historian-nerd’s paradise!
It’s also pretty good for Hostelgeeks, too.
Check out:
1. City Hostel Trogir
Enjoy a warm welcome from the great staff at City Hostel Trogir, your gateway to exploring this marvelous city.
This is the perfect choice for exploring – dump your bags and walk out the door, it’s as easy as that.
After a big day look forward to relaxing in the cosy common area with a free tea/coffee. The front desk is at your service 24 hours a day.
Location: in the heart of Trogir, situated on Main Square no less. From here all of the major attractions, bars, and restaurants are within the immediate vicinity.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Hostel Marina
As the name might suggest, it’s possible to enjoy sea views from every room at Hostel Marina.
The two main attractions here are:
- Super friendly & helpful staff
2. Delicious FREE breakfast
The shared rooms are basic in design and amenities, yet the privates come with a TV, private bathroom, and refrigerator.
Location: slap bang in the middle of the old town, great for history and museum exploration. Split airport is only 6km away.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Split
You’re in luck; we have been to Split several times and know the area well. Of course, we’re also very familiar with the hostels on this list.
This is the destination in Croatia for travelers in search of great party hostels and nightlife.
It is only a short ferry ride away from the famous island Hvar, and either your door-step to mainland Croatia or a starting point for an unforgettable island-hopping experience.
They are:
- Split Guesthouse & Hostel – best for solo travelers and social butterflies
- Hostel Dvor – best for female solo travelers
- Gravitas Hostel – best for backpackers
Psst! We’ve put together the ultimate guide to the 3 best hostels in Split and we even have an extension of this guide: the best party hostels in Split.
1. Split Guesthouse & Hostel
Stay at Split Guesthouse & Hostel for a unique and unconventional travel experience that challenges perceptions. Instead of a traditional property, guests are welcomed into a friend’s cozy abode and offered a warm cup of coffee. The hostel’s sociable atmosphere, voted the most fun property worldwide in 2013, makes it a great choice for solo travelers looking to connect with like-minded individuals.
The hostel creates a relaxing and homely vibe where guests can unwind on comfy bean bags and enjoy free amenities, such as padlock hire, lockers, internet access, Skype headsets, and towel rental. There are no hidden charges, just generous hospitality.
Location: Split Guesthouse & Hostel is located in the heart of the historic center of Split, Croatia, on the Dalmatian Coast. The hostel is just a short walk from all of the city’s major landmarks, including Diocletian’s Palace, Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and Split’s waterfront promenade, known as Riva.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
2. Hostel Dvor
Hostel Dvor is your answer to remarkable interior, easy-going vibes, and spacious yet small-sized dorms.
It’s easy to meet people here thanks to the common area, but don’t expect a party hostel.
Be sure to make time to chat with the staff here, they know their stuff and will help you have the best experience of Split.
Location: it’s just a 10-minute walk to downtown from here. Located in Varoš which happens to be the oldest and most famous part of the city.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Gravitas Hostel
Gravitas Hostel is a modern and conveniently located hostel in the heart of Split. Guests have easy access to the city’s attractions and UNESCO-protected World Heritage zone. The hostel offers spacious dormitory rooms, a social common room, and clean bathrooms. While there is no kitchen, guests can use the provided appliances and find dining options nearby.
The friendly staff is available to assist with arrangements and provide essential information. Paid parking is available in the vicinity.
Location: Located near various famous attractions in the area, such as Gregory of Nin, People’s Square – Pjaca, and Stadium Poljud. It is also just 1.8 km away from Bacvice Beach and 2.1 km from Ovcice Beach.
Check prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Hvar
Once again we can say with confidence that we know Hvar, and it boasts some of the best hostels in Croatia!
Get ready for the perfect spots to watch the sunset and amazing beaches that will steal your heart.
The coolest hostels in Hvar are:
Keen for a more in-depth insight? Check out our full guide to the 3 best hostels in Hvar here.
1. Hostel Villa Skansi
Hostel Villa Skansi has the patio bar which is the heart and soul of the hostel. From there you can definitely watch the sunset right in front of your eyes.
They also have a great outdoor kitchen and they offer free homemade pizza every day and a free pub crawl.
Pretty sweet, huh?
Location: Hostel Villa Skansi is less than a 10-minute walk from the port so you don’t have to worry about the access to the other great destinations and major attractions in Hvar.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. White Rabbit Hostel
Ran by two travelers, White Rabbit Hostel is a true haven that incorporates all of the needs and wants of travelers from across the world.
The rooms are spacious, the bar sociable and the free Wi-fi is fast.
Feel free to use the common kitchen and sign up for one of their many adventure activities and excursions. Pub crawl included!
Location: in a handy spot near top sights such as Stipanska Beach and Hvar City Harbour.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. Helvetia Hostel
Our #3 recommendation and certainly up there with the first two is Helvetia Hostel.
Here you can enjoy a terrace with sea views and the security of surrounding old brick walls.
There are both dorms and private en-suite rooms available. No matter which you choose, you can all enjoy the common room and kitchen.
Catch up with friends thanks to the free Wi-fi and make use of the handy laundry facilities.
Location: just metres from the palm-dotted Riva waterfront and promenade. Stunning coves and taxi boats are close as this hostel is right near the bay.
Compare prices at: Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Korcula Island: Hostel Korcula
Although basic, Hostel Korcula has been fully refurbished to bring you modern accommodation in a charming historical building.
Important: there are only dorm rooms here and a small kitchen which also works as a social area.
There are only 3 rooms here, two with 6 beds and one with 8 beds. There are also single gender bathrooms on offer.
It’s a top hostel if you’re looking for a quiet stay in a great location.
Location: in the heart of Korcula close to the beach, bus station, supermarkets, and top sights in the area.
Looking for something more private? Have a look at Airbnb, they list lots of apartments.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
Best Hostels in Dubrovnik
No doubt you fancy visiting the King’s Landing of Croatia.
Dubrovnik is seriously beautiful thanks to the gothic architecture and pristine beaches. We’ve also found a wonderful selection of Dubrovnik hostels for you.
We also have a dedicated guide on the coolest party hostels in Dubrovnik.
Solo travelers, backpackers, and party hostel lovers prepare yourself for the:
Take a moment and read of our full guide to the 3 coolest hostels in Dubrovnik here.
It’s packed full of useful information to know BEFORE you go.
1. Hostel Angelina Old Town
There’s no doubt you’ll feel as though you’re staying in a castle if you choose Hostel Angelina Old Town.
It’s 400 years old and has a wonderful terrace overlooking the red roofs of central old town. Perfect.
Enjoy huge dorm rooms with sturdy bunks and a homely vibe we all enjoy.
The staff love nothing more than to help you arrange fun activities such as cliff jumping – it’s a must do in Croatia!
Location: you guessed it; Hostel Angelina is in central Old Town. Being inside the walls of the city means everything is easily accessible by foot.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
2. Petra Marina
Backpackers will love Petra Marina for its family run vibe and affordable dorm rooms with a sea view.
As there are no private rooms, extra effort has gone in to the mixed and female-only dorms. There are even single gender bathrooms!
Relax on the terrace and enjoy 10% off nearby restaurants when you choose to stay here.
Location: It’s a 10-minute bus ride to the Old Town from here – there’s a bus stop right outside. Or stretch your legs and enjoy a 30-minute walk. Find a supermarket, ATM and cafe within 100m of the property.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
3. City Walls Hostel
Our last suggestion for Dubrovnik is an award winning hostel inside the walls of the Old Town.
City Walls Hostel is homely and quiet, perfect for couples.
All of the rooms are spacious and bright. On the ground floor you’ll find a kitchen and cosy gathering space.
Breakfast is included and you can help yourself to tea and coffee throughout the day!
Location: in a lovely quiet area inside the heart of the Old Town. Yet never fear; all of the necessities including bars are close-by.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld
My Best Hostels in Croatia for Female Traveler on a Map + Sights
Below we have put ALL of the best hostels in Croatia mentioned in this article on a map.
That’s because we want to make your planning as hassle free and straight forward as possible!
We’ve marked them as follows:
- 5 Star Hostels: Black with White Star
- Design Hostels: Blue
- Backpacker-Type Hostel: Orange
- Other recommendations: Purple
(View full sized map here)
What about the cheapest hostels in Croatia?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Croatia.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Croatia
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Any Discounts?
From time to time, I receive special promo codes for booking platforms, hotels, or hostels. I will be sharing these here once received. Bookmark this page to get an update.
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
I included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
I recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Croatia best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
FAQ
We hope you find all your answers in this detailed guide. Here we summarize frequently asked questions.
More Hostels around Europe
There are many, many awesome hostels in Europe to be discovered and enjoyed.
Easy: find all of the best hostels in Europe here.
We’ve gone one step further and created these awesome guides to nearby destinations to Croatia:
- Best hostels in Ljubljana, Slovenia
- The best hostels in Budapest, Hungary
- 3 Best hostels in Belgrade, Serbia
- Best hostels in Skopje, Macedonia
- Top hostels in Venice, Italy
- 40 Best Hostels in Italy
- Good to know: We also have a detailed guide about the best yoga retreats in Croatia.
Destination not listed?
Besides the listed accommodation, we also put together the best hostels in the world; the 5 Star Hostels.
We stayed in a former winery in Santorini, in a former jail-now 5 5-star hostel, and many more. And we share all of these unique budget accommodations with you.
Make sure you check out our guides “best hostels in“. Here we cover many more destinations.
Update: We now cover as well curated 3-best hostels guide to cities with no 5 Star Hostels such as Paris, Tokyo, and Sydney.
Summary
By now you should have the answer to your question about where to stay in Croatia. Which of the best hostels in Croatia have you fallen in love with? Let us know!
It is an amazing country and incredibly beautiful!
This guide is your shortcut to your hostel picks, saving you lots of time in your accommodation research.
And for sure, it gives you the security of a top-hostel choice without any bad surprises.
Any questions?
Then please please leave a comment below. We would be thrilled to hear from you and to help a fellow backpacker.
Have fun & Safe travels!
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Closed Hostels:
Hostel 1W in Rijeka
Update: Sadly, Hostel 1W has permanently closed. You can find all other hostels in Rijeka over at Hostelz.com. Right now there is not one that we highly recommend.
Our one and only hostel recommendation in Rijka, Hostel 1W, is a great first example of designer accommodation at a budget price.
There’s an equal mix of shared and private rooms. The dorms each have their own country theme! Choose a bunk and enjoy a blackout curtain, reading light and plug socket. We love the amount of space and handy storage under the beds.
It’s the little things that count. In the common lounge you can enjoy a bit of TV or enjoy a free tea/coffee.
Location: In the heart of Rijeka, literally 20m from the main Korzo zone.
Best Hostels in Pula: Rock Hostel Pula
It’s easy to only mention Rock Hostel Pula. The ambience here is unique and fun!
Yep you guessed it – the theme is Rock, showing off rock culture from the 50s to the 90s.
Music lovers will rave about the live rock music on Fridays and cool decor including musical instruments and album covers.
The dorms are lovely and cosy with just 4-beds in each. There is also a female-only option alongside twin rooms with private bathroom.
Location: top location close to the bus station and main sights of Pula.
