Where to Stay in Zagreb:
From Orient Express glamour to Upper Town boutiques, these are the Zagreb hotels we would book.
Zagreb is Croatia's capital and a completely different city from the coastal destinations. The prices are lower, the crowds are smaller and the city runs on cafe culture, cobblestone streets and a creative energy that has nothing to do with the sea. The centerpiece is Upper Town, a medieval hilltop neighborhood connected to the lower city by the world's shortest funicular. Choosing where to stay in Zagreb comes down to whether you want to be on the main square with everything at your feet or tucked into the historic streets above.
We have only visited Zagreb once so far but the city immediately won us over. Unlike Croatia's coastal resorts, Zagreb hotels occupy Belle Epoque buildings, Art Deco masterpieces and converted palaces that reflect the city's Habsburg past. You are not paying for sea views here. You are paying for history, architecture and being in the beating heart of a capital city that feels like a well-kept secret. These picks cover the iconic properties, the boutique hotels with genuine character and the well-placed options that give you the Zagreb experience without the top-tier pricing.
Best Areas to Stay in Zagreb:
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Upper Town (Gornji Grad). Cobblestone streets, St. Mark's Church with its colorful tile roof and the Museum of Broken Relationships. Boutique hotels, quieter at night and funicular access down to Lower Town. Lower Town (Donji Grad). Shopping along Ilica Street, parks, museums and theaters. The best hotel selection in the city with easy tram access throughout. Best area for first-time visitors. Ban Jelacic Square. The main square and meeting point of the city. Everything is walkable from here with trams directly outside. The best pick for maximum convenience. Kaptol. Zagreb Cathedral with its twin neo-Gothic spires and Dolac Market directly below. Central location good for market lovers and foodies. British Square (Britanski Trg). Hipster cafes, alternative vibe and the last remaining open-air farmer's market. Trendy and less touristy feel. |
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Lower Town: Grand Hotels and Historic Stays
For travelers who want world-class service, historic settings and hotels that reflect Zagreb's Habsburg grandeur.
Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
The hotel we want to stay at on our next visit: Orient Express glamour and a century of history
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Lower Town, next to the main train station
Why Stay Here: Built in 1925 specifically for passengers arriving on the legendary Orient Express, the Esplanade remains Zagreb's most iconic hotel. This Art Deco masterpiece near the main train station has hosted everyone from Josephine Baker and Charles Lindbergh to Queen Elizabeth II. The marble corridors, spacious rooms with elegant bathrooms and refined service transport you back to the golden age of European travel. Le Bistro serves some of the best strukli (traditional Croatian cheese pastry) in the city. The 1925 Lounge and Cocktail Bar with its Oleander terrace is perfect for afternoon tea or cocktails. This is where you stay when you want to feel the glamour of pre-war Europe.
Price Range: $$$$
The Westin Zagreb
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Lower Town, near the Croatian National Theatre
Why Stay Here: Near the Croatian National Theatre, The Westin offers modern luxury with sweeping city views especially from upper floors. The spacious rooms feature the Heavenly Bed, large work desks and marble bathrooms. The fitness center is excellent and this is one of the few hotels in Zagreb with an indoor pool. The location in a quieter part of the city center makes it ideal for both business travelers and those who want a more relaxed stay while still being within walking distance of major attractions. The breakfast spread is comprehensive and the staff are attentive without being intrusive.
Price Range: $$$$
Sheraton Zagreb Hotel
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Lower Town, central location near Zagreb's historic streets
Why Stay Here: Just off the main avenue, the Sheraton combines international luxury standards with Croatian warmth. The rooms are beautifully furnished with comfortable beds, work areas and modern bathrooms. The location near Zagreb's historic streets makes exploring on foot easy. The hotel restaurant serves both international and Croatian cuisine and the breakfast buffet offers excellent variety. The Club Lounge provides a quiet space for business travelers. Service is consistently professional and the hotel feels less corporate than you might expect.
Price Range: $$$$
DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Green Gold business district
Why Stay Here: Located in the Green Gold business district, DoubleTree offers contemporary comfort with that famous warm chocolate chip cookie at check-in. The spa area features a glass-walled sauna with stunning city views. The rooms are modern with comfortable beds, work desks and good WiFi. While not in the historic center, it is well positioned in the business district and offers excellent value. The breakfast is solid and the staff are warm and personal. A smart choice if you prioritize modern amenities and a quieter neighborhood over being in the absolute heart of the old city.
Price Range: $$$
Upper Town and City Center: Boutique Hotels
For travelers who want intimate properties, creative design and hotels with genuine personality.
Boutique Hotel HOH
Our top pick for character and atmosphere in Zagreb
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
Why Stay Here: Nestled in Upper Town on a historic street where Croatian writers and artists once lived, this intimate nine-room boutique hotel is something special. Each room is named after a famous Croatian writer with subtle literary touches throughout the design. The staff make you feel like family, the breakfast is homemade and delicious, the terrace offers lovely city views and the sauna provides a peaceful escape after a day of exploring. The location in Upper Town puts you steps from St. Mark's Church and the Museum of Broken Relationships while still being quiet at night. This hotel captures the soul of Zagreb.
Price Range: $$$
Art'otel Zagreb
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Lower Town, city center
Why Stay Here: Housed in a beautifully preserved 1929 Art Deco building, Art'otel brought sleek modern design to Zagreb's hotel scene. The property showcases original artworks by renowned Croatian artist Boris Bucan whose work has been exhibited at MoMA New York and Tate Modern. The 110 rooms are minimalist yet comfortable with innovative technology and abundant natural light. YEZI restaurant offers modern Pan-Asian cuisine and the rooftop bar provides panoramic city views. The indoor pool and spa are excellent. The cafe doubles as a gathering spot for locals and visitors creating an international vibe. This is the choice for design enthusiasts and anyone seeking a stylish central base.
Price Range: $$$
Hotel Jagerhorn
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Location: Just off Ilica Street, between Upper and Lower Town
Why Stay Here: Zagreb's oldest continuously operating hotel captures the city's history perfectly. Tucked just off bustling Ilica Street between Lower and Upper Town, this charming property has 18 beautifully restored rooms and a hidden ivy-covered courtyard where quiet conversation mingles with the sounds of the city. The rooms are small but thoughtfully designed with period touches. The location is unbeatable with Dolac Market, St. Mark's Church and Ban Jelacic Square all within easy walking distance. Private parking is a rare luxury in the city center. When you want to feel completely connected to Zagreb's heart, this is where you stay.
Price Range: $$-$$$
Ban Jelacic Square and the City Center
For travelers who want to be on the main square or a short walk from everything without paying grand hotel prices.
Hotel Dubrovnik
The most central hotel in Zagreb: on the main square since 1929
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Ban Jelacic Square, directly on the main square
Why Stay Here: You cannot get more central than this. Hotel Dubrovnik sits directly on Ban Jelacic Square, Zagreb's main square and meeting point. Since 1929 this 222-room hotel has welcomed guests with a warm and friendly environment that balances tradition and modern comfort. The historic Dubrovnik Cafe with its checkered floors and large windows overlooking the square is a Zagreb institution. Rooms vary between newer renovated wings and more classic spaces but all include modern amenities and free WiFi. The tram stop is literally in front of the hotel, Dolac Market is steps away and you can walk to the Cathedral and Upper Town in minutes. Good value for what is genuinely the best location in the city.
Price Range: $$-$$$
Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Branimir Center, near the train and bus stations
Why Stay Here: Located in the Branimir Center complex near the train station and main bus station, this vibrant four-star hotel stands out for its colorful and energetic interior. The common spaces are filled with comfy chairs, bookcases and interesting wall decor creating a lively atmosphere. The rooms feature modern design, air conditioning and private bathrooms. The location offers easy access to both the main square and Upper Town while being perfectly positioned for travelers arriving by train or bus. The hotel captures a fresh contemporary vibe that appeals to younger travelers and those who appreciate bold design without paying boutique prices.
Price Range: $$
Zagreb rewards travelers who look beyond Croatia's famous coastline. Whether you choose the Orient Express glamour of the Esplanade, the literary charm of Boutique Hotel HOH or the unbeatable convenience of Hotel Dubrovnik on the main square, you will find a capital city that blends Austro-Hungarian grandeur with Croatian warmth. The world's shortest funicular, the Museum of Broken Relationships and Dolac Market covered in red umbrellas are just the beginning.
FAQ About Staying in Zagreb
For first-time visitors, Lower Town near Ban Jelacic Square gives you the most central base with trams to everywhere and the main sights on foot. Upper Town is quieter and more atmospheric but requires the funicular or stairs to get up and down. If you want boutique character and do not mind a bit of elevation, Upper Town is the better choice. If you want convenience above all, the main square area is the answer.
Yes, absolutely. Zagreb is genuinely one of the most underrated capitals in Europe. It rewards visitors who take the time to explore Upper Town, eat at Dolac Market and spend evenings in the cafe culture that defines the city. A two-night stop as part of a broader Croatia trip will change how you think about the country.
The tram network is excellent and covers most of the city center. Upper Town is walkable from the main square via the funicular or a short climb up the stairs. Taxis and rideshare apps are inexpensive. For most visitors, Zagreb requires no car and the tram system handles everything efficiently.
Spring and early autumn are ideal. April through June and September through October offer pleasant temperatures, manageable crowds and the city at its most lively. Zagreb also has an excellent Advent market in December that makes it one of the better European Christmas destinations. Summer is warm but the city is less crowded than the coast.
Yes, noticeably so. Hotels, restaurants and general costs in Zagreb are lower than Dubrovnik and comparable to Split. You can stay in a four-star hotel on the main square for less than a mid-range property in Dubrovnik. Zagreb offers excellent value for the quality of accommodation and experience on offer.
Read More About Zagreb
Looking for more ideas? Read our Zagreb Travel Guide for Upper Town tips, Dolac Market and local restaurant picks.
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