Heading to the Balkans for the vacations? Discover the best places to stay in Zagreb, the Croatian capital!
Often mistakenly overlooked by most travelers in favor of the Adriatic coast – Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and the 698 islands of the Croatian coast – the Croatian capital nevertheless has many charms to offer its visitors. Zagreb had a population of 688,163 at the 2011 census, with 1,107,623 souls in the entire urban area. Finding a place to stay in Zagreb can be expensive, as the city has focused on luxury hotel tourism and high-standard accommodation.
Situated in northern Croatia on the slopes of the Medvednica massif and along the banks of the Save river, Zagreb – like Budapest – acts as a junction between Eastern Europe and the European Union. Each district has its own soul and atmosphere. Here are the essentials for finding accommodation in Zagreb.
Gornji Grad, historic Zagreb
Photo credit: Flickr – Suhas Dutta
Situated on the hill of Gornji Grad, this historic district is home to Zagreb’s « upper town », which actually consists of two neighborhoods: Gradec and Kaptol. Numerous café terraces and typical architecture rub shoulders here. These include St. Stephen’s Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest buildings, dating back to the 11th century, and St. Mark’s Church, with its 13th-century polychrome tiled roof. Here, you can relive the style that prevailed in the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and appreciate the singular blend of past and present that makes this a romantic district.
On the Tkalčićeva side of the street, you’ll find many trendy bars and houses colored in ochre and pastel. Don’t miss Place Jelačić, the central square, the place where everyone meets, just like Place du Capitole in Toulouse or Place de la Comédie in Montpellier. Not far away, just fifty meters away, small local producers sell their fruit and vegetables every morning at the traditional Dolac market: a must-see. It’s a good place to stay in Zagreb for peaceful, cultural visits to the cobbled streets of the city center.
Donji Grad, the lower town
Photo credit: Flickr – Fred Romero
You can take the funicular up to the lower town for a splendid view of the city. However, you can also cross the city on foot. The lower town is the equivalent of the new town, the one that has entered the modern era. This is where Zagreb citizens go out day and night. Majestic buildings have been erected here: theaters, mansions, palaces and squares in Austro-Hungarian, neoclassical and modern styles. If you like music and art, this is a good area to stay in Zagreb: you’re sure to find a nice concert to enjoy your summer evening.
Restaurants, bars, pubs, jazz cellars, lounge clubs – this is where the festive atmosphere comes alive in the evening. During the day, take a stroll through Zeinjevac Park. Just a few kilometers from the city center, you can relax and swim at Lake Jarun, where festivals and concerts are held in summer (check in advance).
Main photo credit: Flickr – Roberto Taddeo
Map of hotels and accommodations –