Are you planning a trip to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia? With its medieval Upper Town, wide avenues from the Austro-Hungarian era, and parks, the city is easy to explore on foot or by tram. We explored its neighborhoods and tried out several places to help you choose where to stay in Zagreb. Here’s what you’ll find in this article:
- Our tips on the best neighborhoods to choose for your stay in Zagreb,
- our list of the city’s best hotels, sorted by category, plus a few extras.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Best Hotels in Zagreb: Our Top Picks
Before you read our detailed reviews of each of the establishments we’ve selected, here are our top picks—all of which we tried during our visit.
Luxury Historic Hotel: Hôtel Esplanade
Built in 1925 to accommodate passengers on the Orient Express, the Hôtel Esplanade faces the botanical garden and is a 2-minute walk from the main train station. We loved its Art Deco decor, where marble and brass form geometric patterns. This is the place to keep in mind if you’re looking for a 5-star hotel steeped in history.
See photos, prices and availability.
A charming hotel in the Upper Town: Hotel HOH
Housed in a historic building on Jurjevska Street, the HOH Hotel features just 9 rooms, each dedicated to a figure from Croatian culture. We loved its garden terrace overlooking the city’s rooftops. A quiet spot, perfect for a romantic getaway in the heart of the Upper Town.
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to Stay in Zagreb: Best Neighborhoods + Map
Why stay in Zagreb?
Although often just a quick stop on the way to the Adriatic or Plitvice Lakes, Zagreb is definitely worth spending at least two nights in. The city combines a medieval center, a variety of museums, a lively café scene, and a network of parks that form a green belt in the heart of the lower city. See the best attractions.
We found the atmosphere to be more relaxed than on the coast in the summer, and hotel rates are generally lower. In December, however, the Advent market attracts many visitors, so we recommend planning ahead.
Map of Zagreb and its neighborhoods
Zagreb is just as well-suited for a couples’ city getaway as it is for a family vacation. The city center is easy to explore on foot, while the tram provides convenient service to the more outlying neighborhoods.
Here is a map to help you locate the six neighborhoods we highlight below:
1. Staying in the Lower Town (Donji Grad)
Donji Grad, the lower town, stretches from Ban Jelačić Square to the main train station. Developed beginning in the19th century, this neighborhood is distinguished by its Neoclassical and Secession-style buildings, as well as by the “Green Horseshoe,” a series of squares and gardens designed by urban planner Milan Lenuci, which connects Zrinjevac Park to the Botanical Garden.
We enjoyed the concentration of museums, cafés, and shops in this area, particularly around the Ilica pedestrian street and Flower Square (Cvjetni trg). This is also where we found the widest selection of hotels, ranging from 3- to 5-star.
Benefits:
- Most sites, restaurants, and museums are within walking distance
- Train station and numerous tram lines nearby
- The city’s most diverse selection of hotels
Disadvantages:
- Traffic and Noise on Major Roads
- Paid and limited parking
- Large crowds at the Advent market
Our favorite hotels:
5-starHotel Esplanade
5-starHotel MET Boutique
3-starHotel Jägerhorn
2. Staying in the Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
Gornji Grad encompasses Zagreb’s two historic centers: Kaptol, home to the bishopric and the cathedral, and Gradec, a town declared a free royal city in 1242 by Béla IV, King of Hungary and Croatia.
Cobbled streets, St. Mark’s Church with its glazed-tile roof, the Stone Gate, and Lotrščak Tower form a compact ensemble, which can be reached from the lower town by a funicular railway that began operating in 1890. We loved the calm that settles over the area in the evening, once the tour groups have left.
Benefits:
- A historic setting and a peaceful atmosphere in the evening
- Views from the rooftops of the Lower City
- Major museums and landmarks just a few minutes’ walk away
Disadvantages:
- Few hotels, often small in size
- Steep, cobblestone streets, which are difficult to navigate with suitcases
- Limited access by car and limited parking
Our favorite hotel: HOH Hotel
3. Stay near Maksimir Park
Located about 3 km east of the city center, Maksimir takes its name from the park that Bishop Maksimilijan Vrhovac had built there in the late18th century. Opened to the public in 1794, this wooded area dotted with ponds and pavilions is also home to the city’s zoo, while Dinamo Zagreb’s stadium stands across from it.
We enjoyed this mostly residential neighborhood for a morning walk in the park. From there, the tram takes you to Ban Jelačić Square in about 15 minutes—a trip we found easy.
Benefits:
- A large park nearby, popular with families and joggers
- A residential neighborhood atmosphere, far from the tourist crowds
Disadvantages:
- Very limited selection of hotels
- You’ll need to take the tram to get to the city center
- Crowds and Traffic on Game Nights
Our recommendation, between the Upper Town and Maksimir: Rooms 23 – FLOK Petrova
4. Staying in Trnje (between the train station and the Sava River)
South of the railroad tracks, Trnje stretches all the way to the banks of the Sava River. This neighborhood, home to office buildings, large hotels, and cultural institutions such as the Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall and the National and University Library, is crossed by Vukovarska Avenue.
We found it less lively than the city center, but it has good public transportation. The historic center is a 15- to 25-minute walk away, depending on your location, or just a few tram stops away.
Benefits:
- Newer hotels, often with parking
- Close to the bus station and tram lines
- Prices are often lower than in the lower part of town
Disadvantages:
- A setting that is more functional than charming
- Noisy major highways
- There isn’t much nightlife outside the hotels
Our suggestion: Hotel 9
5. Spend the night near Lake Jarun
Located southwest of the city, about 5 km from downtown, Lake Jarun was developed for the 1987 Universiade. Today, its shores feature bike paths, pebble beaches, a rowing course, and outdoor bars. We ran into many locals there who had come to swim or take a stroll at the end of the day. It takes about 20 minutes by tram to reach Ban Jelačić Square.
Benefits:
- Green surroundings and water-based sports activities
- A quiet neighborhood, except during summer evenings
Disadvantages:
- Far from the historic center (requires a tram ride)
- There are few hotels in the area
- There may be noise on festival evenings during the summer
Our suggestion: Jarun Hotel
6. Staying in Novi Zagreb (south bank of the Sava River)
On the other side of the Sava River, Novi Zagreb began to develop in the 1950s as a series of large residential complexes. The neighborhood is home to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MSU), Bundek Park and its two lakes, as well as the Arena Zagreb, which hosts concerts and sporting events. It’s also located along the route between the airport and the highway, which is a real plus if you’re traveling by car.
Benefits:
- Quick access to the airport and the highway
- Parking is easier than downtown
- A handy guide to attending an event at the Zagreb Arena
Disadvantages:
- Far from historic sites (requires a tram, bus, or car)
- Residential architecture that is not very appealing to pedestrians
- Fewer restaurants and cafes within walking distance
Our recommendation: Sundial Boutique Hotel
Other useful tips to keep in mind
Zagreb gets increasingly crowded in December during the Advent market: we recommend booking several months in advance if you’re visiting the city during this time. The rest of the year, there are generally enough hotel rooms available, except during major conferences or concerts.
Parking in the city center is divided into paid zones, and the upper town is largely closed to traffic. Check with your hotel about parking options before you arrive. The tram remains the easiest way to get around: tickets can be purchased at newsstands or from the driver.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Croatia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that’s compact enough (some passages are narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Our curation: best hotels
To help you find the accommodation that best suits your needs, we’ve sorted our recommendations by category. Below you’ll find our detailed picks, as well as other inspiring addresses.
Best Luxury Hotels in Zagreb
Zagreb is home to several high-end establishments, ranging from grand historic hotels to more intimate contemporary venues.
The one we reviewed: Hotel Esplanade
Built in 313 days and inaugurated in 1925, the Esplanade Hotel originally served as a stopover for travelers on the Orient Express. The building is located on Mihanovićeva Street, across from the botanical garden and 150 meters from the main train station. As soon as we entered the lobby, we were struck by the clocks hanging above the entrance—a reminder of that railway era. The interior, renovated by interior designer Maria Vafiadis, retains its Art Deco spirit while offering modern comforts, which we particularly appreciated.
Our 30-square-meter room featured a king-size bed, a sitting area, and a marble bathroom with a bathtub and a separate shower. We also enjoyed breakfast at Zinfandel Restaurant, served under tall chandeliers: eggs cooked to order, Croatian cold cuts, cheeses, and seasonal fruits. In the evening, we ended our days at Bar Esplanade 1925, which offers several non-alcoholic cocktails on its menu.
More photos in our article.
- Neighborhood: Lower Town (Donji Grad), across from the botanical garden and near the main train station
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: Yes, Restaurant Zinfandel (a modern take on Croatian cuisine) and Restaurant Bistro, which has a more casual atmosphere
- Family Rooms: connecting rooms, cribs, and extra beds available upon request
- No swimming pool
- Amenities: wellness center, gym, sauna, Oleander Terrace, bar
- Accessibility: elevators and rooms adapted for guests with limited mobility
- Parking: Yes, private and paid (€30 per day during our stay)
- See photos, prices, and availability —and book!
The second one we tested: MET Boutique Hotel
Opened in the fall of 2023, the MET Boutique Hotel is housed in a 5-story building at 4 Praška Street, part of which extends into the attic of the former Singer House, on the corner of Ban Jelačić Square. Its glass facade stands in stark contrast to the neighboring19th-century buildings. We appreciated the hotel’s intimate size—with just 26 rooms—and found the service to be attentive.
The Archaeological Museum is a 1-minute walk away, and Zrinjevac Park and Ilica Street are just a little further. You can also enjoy the rooftop terrace for a drink at the end of the day. For guests arriving by car, the hotel offers valet parking, a rare perk in this part of downtown.
- Neighborhood: Lower Town (Donji Grad), next to Ban Jelačić Square
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: Yes, with a breakfast buffet or à la carte options
- Family rooms: No, double and twin rooms only
- No swimming pool
- Amenities: rooftop terrace, sauna, bar, soundproofed rooms
- Accessibility: wheelchair-accessible
- Parking: Yes, private with valet service (for a fee)
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Our curation of other excellent luxury options
- art’otel Zagreb
In the lower town.
A design hotel near the central square and the Archaeological Museum, featuring an indoor pool, a sauna, and a terrace.
Check photos and availability - Le Premier Hotel
In the lower town.
An elegant hotel in a historic building, near the Meštrović Art Pavilion. On-site wellness center.
Check photos and availability - The Westin Zagreb Hotel
Near the botanical garden.
A 5-star hotel featuring a spa and an indoor pool. Some rooms offer unobstructed views of the city.
See photos and - Sheraton Zagreb Hotel
Near the main train station.
A large hotel with many amenities, including a spa and an indoor pool.
Check photos and availability - DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb Hotel
Located in Trnje, the business district.
Rooms and suites, panoramic indoor pool, and Turkish bath.
Check photos and availability
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
Best Boutique Hotels in Zagreb
If you prefer charming, intimate accommodations, Zagreb has several to offer, often located in renovated historic buildings.
The one we reviewed: HOH Hotel
The HOH Hotel is located in a recently restored historic building at 4 Jurjevska Street, a quiet street in the Upper Town. This family-run hotel with nine rooms pays tribute to Croatian cultural figures: our room, under the eaves, was named after the composer Vatroslav Lisinski, who wrote the first opera in the Croatian language inthe 19th century. We loved how bright it was, thanks to two large skylights. We also slept comfortably thanks to the high-quality bedding.
Breakfast, served buffet-style, includes local specialties as well as vegetarian and vegan options. When the weather is nice, breakfast is served on the garden terrace, which offers a view of the rooftops of Zagreb. We returned there at the end of the day for a cocktail and enjoyed the tranquility of the place after our sightseeing. A spa rounds out the amenities, but we didn’t try it.
More photos in our article.
- Neighborhood: Upper Town (Gornji Grad), Jurjevska Street
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: breakfast buffet (vegetarian and vegan options), cocktail bar on the terrace
- Family rooms: No, this property is primarily suited for couples
- No swimming pool
- Amenities: panoramic garden terrace, spa, elevator (a few steps to reach it)
- Pets: Not allowed
- Parking: None; the Langov Trg public parking garage is about a 15-minute walk away
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Our curation of other excellent charm options
- MANDA Heritage Hotel
Located in the lower town.
Individually decorated rooms and suites in a downtown building. The cathedral and shopping streets are within walking distance.
Check photos and availability - Stellar Boutique Hotel Modules
Near the cathedral.
Contemporary style and “module” rooms, some of which feature a sleeper sofa.
Check photos and availability - Hotel 9
, in Trnje, near the bus station.
Modern design and a nearby tram stop for easy access to the city center.
Check photos and availability - Sundial Boutique Hotel
In Novi Zagreb, near the Zagreb Arena.
A small, quiet hotel with a garden and a terrace.
Check photos and availability
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Croatia a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Best Historic Hotels
Zagreb remains more affordable than the coastal cities, and there are several well-located 3-star hotels there.
The one we reviewed: Hotel Jägerhorn
Opened in 1827 at 14 Ilica Street, the Hotel Jägerhorn (“hunting horn” in German) is the oldest hotel in Zagreb still in operation. It’s tucked away at the back of a courtyard lined with shops, right below the Lotrščak Tower. We appreciated its location at the crossroads of the two parts of the city: Ban Jelačić Square is a 3-minute walk away, and the Upper Town can be reached by the nearby funicular. We also thought the renovation was a success, blending classic furnishings with modern comforts.
The hotel has 18 rooms, ranging from singles to suites. At the back, a summer terrace featuring a fountain hosts the breakfast buffet when the weather permits. Since Ilica Street is a pedestrian zone in this area, be sure to reserve one of the few parking spaces available nearby.
- Neighborhood: Lower Town (Donji Grad), on the edge of the Upper Town
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: breakfast buffet, bar, and café on site
- Family rooms: Yes, suites that can accommodate a family
- No swimming pool
- Amenities: summer terrace and fountain, air-conditioned rooms
- Parking: Limited spaces available nearby; reservations required
- Check photos and availability – and book now!
Our selection of other historic hotels
- Capital Hotel
Just a few minutes from Ban Jelačić Square.
A former bank building featuring Art Deco and Secession-style decor, with a restaurant and a bar.
Check photos and availability
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Zagreb
Traveling with your family to Zagreb requires accommodations that offer multiple beds or a kitchen. Here are the places we recommend (the exact layout depends on the specific accommodation you book):
- Enjoy Apartments and Suites
in Trnje.
Modern apartments and suites, including a balcony apartment that can accommodate up to 5 people.
Check photos and availability - Avenue21 Hotel
In Trnje, near the bus station.
A new hotel offering family rooms equipped with a sofa bed, a restaurant, and parking.
Check photos and availability - Hôtel International by Maistra City Vibes
In Trnje, within walking distance of the city center.
A large hotel whose family room includes one double bed and two single beds.
Check photos and availability - REPUBLIKA Hotel
In Medveščak, near the Upper Town
Eight apartments equipped with a kitchen and a living area, in a quiet neighborhood.
Check photos and availability - Magdalena Hotel
In Novi Zagreb, near the Zagreb Arena
Family room with a terrace, featuring one double bed and one single bed.
Check photos and availability
Best budget hotels
Our curation of other excellent options
- Stay Swanky Hotel
A small hotel in the city center, featuring common areas and a seasonal outdoor pool.
See prices, photos and availability - Jarun Hotel
Near Lake Jarun, in a quiet setting with a tram stop nearby
See prices, photos and availability - Hotel Sliško
In Trnje, near the bus station—convenient for a short stay
See prices, photos and availability - The Loop Hotel
East of Trnje, a contemporary hotel with parking
See prices, photos and availability - Magdalena Hotel
In Novi Zagreb, a small, modern hotel near the highway
See prices, photos and availability
Best Aparthotels in Zagreb
For a longer stay or if you’d like to cook, aparthotels offer more space and greater independence.
- Fingerprint Luxury Apartments
In the lower town, near the botanical garden
Fully equipped studios and apartments, ideal for exploring the city center on foot.
Check photos and availability - Enjoy Apartments and Suites
In Trnje
Contemporary suites and apartments, some with a kitchen and a balcony.
Check photos and availability
Other Types of Accommodations in Zagreb
You can also find
- B&Bs
- apartments for rent
- guest houses
- and youth hostels
- See the top-rated accommodations in Zagreb.
EXPLORE Zagreb
SHE WROTE THE ARTICLE Claire
