Metelkova City - View from the Kremlin to the Protva River and the city
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Metelkova City

4.3
·7k reviews·, Slovenia

An autonomous cultural center in Ljubljana, famous for its vibrant street art, alternative music, and unique bohemian nightlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

See the colorful graffiti

CrowdLow
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Metelkova City - View from the Kremlin to the Protva River and the city

Metelkova City

Best Time

Daytime

See the colorful graffiti

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An autonomous cultural center in Ljubljana, famous for its vibrant street art, alternative music, and unique bohemian nightlife.

4.3
(7k reviews)

"A somewhat unusual spot that serves as a hub for alternative art. It’s free to visit, photogenic, and located just an 8-minute walk from Ljubljana’s main train station."

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TIP

📸 Capture the Art

Visit during the day to fully appreciate the incredible graffiti and street art that covers the buildings. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Be Aware of Surroundings

While generally safe during the day, some visitors report feeling uneasy at night. Stay aware, especially if you're alone. :woman_walking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Graffiti & Street Art

Vibrant Graffiti & Street Art

Explore a kaleidoscope of colorful murals and intricate graffiti adorning every surface. A true open-air art gallery.

Autonomous Cultural Hub

Autonomous Cultural Hub

Experience the unique energy of this self-governed space, known for its alternative music, theater, and arts.

Unique Bar & Nightlife Scene

Unique Bar & Nightlife Scene

Discover quirky bars and clubs offering underground music and a distinct, bohemian atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Daytime vs. Nighttime Vibe

Metelkova transforms from a daytime art gallery to a buzzing nightlife hub. Visit during the day for vibrant graffiti and street art, but be aware that some find the atmosphere less inviting then. Evenings bring a different energy, with bars and music venues coming alive, though some visitors report feeling uneasy at night.

Navigating the Atmosphere

Metelkova is an autonomous cultural center with a unique, alternative vibe. While it's free to explore and offers incredible street art, some visitors have reported feeling uncomfortable due to the presence of individuals who appear to be under the influence. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark, and to respect the space's alternative culture.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
See the colorful graffiti
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Experience the nightlife
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Metelkova?

📸 Capture the Art

Visit during the day to fully appreciate the incredible graffiti and street art that covers the buildings. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Be Aware of Surroundings

While generally safe during the day, some visitors report feeling uneasy at night. Stay aware, especially if you're alone. :woman_walking:

reddit.com

How different is Metelkova at weekends?

reddit.com

Is Metelkova safe during weekdays?

💨 Respect the Vibe

Metelkova has an alternative culture. Be mindful of the atmosphere and the people around you. :person_running:

📍 Close to Station

Conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from Ljubljana's main train station. :train2:

reddit.com

Help us have the best weekend in Ljubljana!

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Art

Visit during the day to fully appreciate the incredible graffiti and street art that covers the buildings. :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Be Aware of Surroundings

While generally safe during the day, some visitors report feeling uneasy at night. Stay aware, especially if you're alone. :woman_walking:

💨 Respect the Vibe

Metelkova has an alternative culture. Be mindful of the atmosphere and the people around you. :person_running:

📍 Close to Station

Conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from Ljubljana's main train station. :train2:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Metelkova City is celebrated for its incredible street art and unique alternative culture, offering a visually striking experience. While many appreciate its bohemian vibe and vibrant nightlife, some visitors find the atmosphere, particularly at night, to be a bit unsettling or 'sketchy.' It's a place that divides opinion but is undeniably memorable.

"Very cute art on the buildings but during the day you don’t quite know what to do there. There are no food trucks, concept stores or stands. There’s a couple of bars with sketchy looking zonked people staring into space, didn’t really feel inviting to walk in and have a glass. I went there once at 3 pm and once at 7 pm, both gave me the same impression. A little dilapidated and not too intuitive for the newcomers."

Alya B.

"1 | A somewhat unusual spot that serves as a hub for alternative art. It’s free to visit, photogenic, and located just an 8-minute walk from Ljubljana’s main train station.
2 | On the flip side – the area is full of rather odd people, and some seemed like they might be under the influence of mysterious substances. A few of them stared at me in a strange way. Much of the “art” here consists of political slogans.
3 | I wouldn’t recommend visiting this squat after dark, especially for women or those less adventurous."

Petr Novák

"Amazing graffiti space. If you want to see something really different from most sightseeing places, come here - surely during the day if you want to see the colourful graffiti all around the place. If you feel uncomfortable with the smell of weed and some strange stares at you, definitely don't come here in the evening :)"

Лъчезар Арсов

What People Like

Amazing graffiti art
Unique alternative vibe
Free to explore

What People Dislike

Unsettling atmosphere at night
Sketchy individuals
Limited daytime amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Metelkova City is conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from Ljubljana's main train station, making it easily accessible on foot. You can also take local buses that stop nearby. Reddit

While Metelkova is an active nightlife spot, some visitors have reported feeling uneasy at night due to the atmosphere and individuals present. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and consider traveling with others if visiting after dark. Reddit

From Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU), you can take a shuttle bus or a taxi to the city center, and then it's a short walk or bus ride to Metelkova City. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Metelkova City itself is free. You can wander around and admire the street art and architecture during the day. However, individual bars and clubs may have cover charges for events or specific nights. Reddit

Metelkova City is accessible 24/7 as a public space to view the art. However, the bars, clubs, and galleries within Metelkova have their own operating hours, which typically start in the late afternoon or evening. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed, especially for the street art. However, be respectful of individuals and their privacy; some venues might have rules against photographing people without permission. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Metelkova is renowned for its vibrant and extensive graffiti, murals, sculptures, and unique architectural modifications. It's a dynamic canvas for urban and alternative art forms. Reddit

During the day, families can appreciate the colorful street art. However, the atmosphere can become more adult-oriented and edgy in the evenings, with some visitors reporting feeling uncomfortable. Reddit

Metelkova has a distinct alternative and bohemian atmosphere. It's a hub for underground culture, music, and art, which can be exciting but also intense for some visitors. Reddit

While official guided tours might be limited, you can often find local guides or join informal groups exploring the area. It's also easy to explore independently during the day. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

During the day, food options within Metelkova can be limited, with some visitors noting a lack of food trucks or stands. However, several bars and clubs operate in the evenings and may offer snacks or have a more established food menu. Reddit

The bars in Metelkova typically offer a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, often with a focus on local beers and spirits. The atmosphere is usually casual and alternative. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Every corner of Metelkova is a potential photo opportunity! Focus on the detailed graffiti, the unique sculptures, and the overall urban landscape. The colorful facades are particularly photogenic. Reddit

While photographing the art is encouraged, be respectful when taking pictures of people. Some venues may have specific rules about photographing patrons. It's always best to ask for permission if you're focusing on individuals. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Metelkova City can be a fascinating place for families to visit during the daytime, primarily to explore the incredible street art and graffiti. The colorful murals and unique sculptures offer a visually stimulating experience for children. It's a great opportunity to introduce them to urban art in a dynamic setting. Reddit

However, it's important to be mindful that Metelkova's character shifts significantly in the evening. As it becomes a hub for nightlife, the atmosphere can become more adult-oriented and potentially less suitable for younger children. If visiting with family, sticking to daylight hours is highly recommended to enjoy the artistic aspects without the more intense evening vibe. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Those Seeking Adventure

For solo travelers looking for something truly unique, Metelkova offers an unforgettable experience. The autonomous cultural center provides a glimpse into an alternative lifestyle and artistic expression that's hard to find elsewhere. During the day, it's a fantastic place to wander, photograph the art, and soak in the creative energy. Reddit

If you're seeking adventure, exploring Metelkova in the evening can be rewarding, but it comes with a caveat. While many enjoy the vibrant nightlife and music scene, some visitors have noted feeling a bit uneasy due to the atmosphere. Being street smart and aware of your surroundings is key. Consider joining a group or staying in well-lit areas if you feel uncomfortable. The unique vibe is part of its allure, but preparedness ensures a positive experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Metelkova

Metelkova Mesto is an internationally recognized center for alternative culture, renowned for its vibrant street art and graffiti. The entire complex, a former Yugoslav army barracks, has been transformed into an open-air gallery. Artists have covered nearly every surface with colorful murals, intricate designs, and thought-provoking political slogans. Visiting during the day allows you to fully appreciate the detail and scale of this urban art project. Reddit

Beyond the visual art, Metelkova is a hub for performance art, music, and theater. Numerous galleries and performance spaces host a diverse range of events, from underground concerts to experimental theater productions. The artistic expression here is raw, often provocative, and reflects the autonomous spirit of the community. Reddit

It's important to note that the art is constantly evolving, with new pieces appearing and old ones being painted over, making each visit a potentially unique experience. The sheer density and creativity of the art make it a must-see for anyone interested in contemporary urban art and culture. Reddit

Navigating the Nightlife and Atmosphere

As the sun sets, Metelkova transforms into a lively nightlife destination. Its numerous bars and clubs come alive with a diverse range of music, from electronic and rock to more experimental genres. The atmosphere is distinctly alternative and bohemian, attracting a crowd looking for a unique experience away from mainstream venues. Reddit

However, it's crucial to be aware of the complex atmosphere that Metelkova can present, especially after dark. Some visitors have reported feeling uneasy or encountering individuals who appear to be under the influence of substances. While many enjoy the edgy vibe, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially if you are visiting alone or are less accustomed to such environments. Reddit

Respect for the space and its inhabitants is key. Metelkova operates on a principle of autonomy, and its residents have cultivated a unique community. Understanding and respecting this ethos will enhance your experience, whether you're there for the art, the music, or the distinctive social scene. Reddit

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