Ljubljanica River at dusk

Best Bars in Ljubljana

Cocktails, creative hangouts, and riverside drinks

Ljubljana nights can be gentle or loud—your choice. Start by the river for a slow drink, go to a cocktail bar for one perfect mix, or head toward Metelkova when you want something wilder.

Map: Nightlife Anchors

Use this map to plan “one area per night” instead of bouncing across the city.

Interactive map powered by OpenFreeMap + MapLibre (based on OpenStreetMap data).
Pritličje

Pritličje

Mestni trg 2

Local Hangout

A city-centre favorite that doubles as a cultural hangout—ideal for a first drink, conversation, and a “locals actually go here” atmosphere.

Kolibri Cocktail Bar

Kolibri Cocktail Bar

Židovska steza 2

Craft Cocktails

A cocktail lounge for “one great drink” evenings—crafted classics, modern creations, and a polished Old Town setting that feels special without being stiff.

Daktari

Daktari

Krekov trg (market area)

Cozy Bar

Cozy and characterful with a strong community feel—known for jazz/blues nights, a deep gin selection, and the kind of warm lighting that makes you stay longer.

Lajbah

Lajbah

Grudnovo nabrežje 15

Modern Bar

A relaxed pub that works as an easy pre-dinner drink or an unhurried “one more” after a riverside walk—good for beer, casual conversation, and a no-pressure vibe.

Centralna postaja

Centralna postaja

Trubarjeva cesta 23

Social, Lively

A social bar/club-style spot that’s good for groups and low-pressure nights—often a lively start before heading deeper into Ljubljana’s nightlife.

Metelkova Nights

Metelkova Nights

Metelkova

Alternative Nightlife

For a more alternative evening, head toward Metelkova. It’s not a single bar but a whole micro‑district of late-night energy, music, and art.

Official Links (Current Program, Hours)

Schedules change fast—especially for DJ nights and live music. Use the official pages below for the most current updates.

Pritličje
Mestni trg 2
Visit Ljubljana ↗
Daktari
Krekov trg area
Visit Ljubljana ↗
Lajbah
Grudnovo nabrežje 15
Visit Ljubljana ↗
Kolibri Cocktail Bar
Židovska steza 2
Official site ↗
Centralna postaja
Trubarjeva cesta 23
Official site ↗
Metelkova mesto
Alternative district
Visit Ljubljana ↗

Bars & Nightlife FAQs

Where is the best area for nightlife in Ljubljana?

For central drinks, the riverside and Old Town area are easiest. For alternative nightlife and late-night energy, Metelkova is the classic choice.

Is Ljubljana good for cocktail bars and craft drinks?

Yes—Ljubljana has a mix of cocktail spots, wine bars, craft beer, and creative venues. The scene is compact, so it’s easy to try two places in one night.

Do you need reservations for bars in Ljubljana?

Usually no. For small cocktail bars or popular weekend nights, arriving earlier can help you get a good seat.

Is Metelkova safe at night?

Metelkova is lively and alternative. Use normal city awareness, stay in the active areas, and if you’re unsure, visit first in the daytime to get a feel for it.

What’s a good “easy night out” plan?

Start with a riverside drink, then pick one “anchor” bar for cocktails or live music. Finish with a short bridge loop on the way back—Ljubljana nights are made for strolling.