Our local residents share their honest opinions on the best hotels in Zagreb for every type of traveller, whether you're looking for 5-star luxury or a simple yet charming guesthouse experience. Just don't tell the tourists!
Visiting the famous Zagreb Christmas Market? Planning a work trip to Zagreb? Or simply touring the Croatian capital's quirky museums and delicious local restaurants? Here's our insider tips on finding the best hotels in Zagreb on any budget.
Overview: The Best Hotels in Zagreb, Croatia
Most visitors stay close to Zagreb's Upper Town where many of the Zagreb Advent festivities take place.
1. Zagreb Accommodation Tips from our Local Experts
Book in Advance During Peak Seasons: For popular events like the Advent in Zagreb, book well in advance as accommodations tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons. Demand tends to be lower in the summer months as most locals and visitors to Croatia take their holidays on the coast.
Seasonal Considerations: It's also a good idea to think about where you'll stay depending on the weather and season. In winter, accommodations near Christmas markets in Ban Jelačić Square offer a festive experience, but they are significantly noisier and busier than usual. You might want to pick a hotel close to Zagreb Upper Town during the winter to minimise your time spent walking around in the cold!
Pet-Friendly Zagreb Hotels: Traveling with pets? Check for pet-friendly accommodations, such as the Sheraton Zagreb Hotel, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, and Hotel Dubrovnik in particular which not only allow pets but also provides pet amenities.
Conference and Business Hotels in Zagreb: Business travelers are catered for in Zagreb with dedicated conference facilities at hotels like The Westin Zagreb which offers state-of-the-art meeting spaces.
Parking in Zagreb Upper Town: If you plan to drive, double check if your accommodation offers parking facilities. Finding parking in Zagreb city center can be challenging and much of the Upper Town and downtown is pedestrianised so access by car is limited.
Accessibility and Public Transport: Generally it is very easy to get around Zagreb via public transport and Uber is a cheap and popular transport option. If you have an early morning flight or bus ride, pick accommodation near main transportation hubs like the Zagreb bus station (Autobusni kolodvor Zagreb) for easy access to the shuttle bus to the airport.
The Upper Town is the best Zagreb neighbourhood to stay in if you like early morning strolls with a view.
2. What's the best Zagreb neighbourhood stay in?
What's the best neighbourhood in Zagreb for your trip? That depends on what you want to see and do in the city. Most first-time visitors stay in the Lower Town (Donji Grad) or Upper Town (Gornji Grad) areas which have most of Zagreb's main attractions.
Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
Ideal for: History enthusiasts and those seeking a charming, medieval atmosphere. Accommodation options here are limited, but the advantage is that you get the quaint Upper Town streets all to yourself on an early morning stroll.
Highlights: St. Mark's Church (Crkva sv. Marko), Lotrščak Tower, the Croatian Parliament, and the iconic Stone Gate.
Atmosphere: Cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and a quieter ambiance.
Recommended hotels: Hotel Academia, Regal Residence Bed & Breakfast, St. Mark's Boutique Apartment Zagreb, Rooms Zagreb 17
Lower Town (Donji Grad)
Ideal for: Travelers who want a central location with easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural sites. Most visitors to Zagreb stay here. If you decide to stay in the Lower Town you can probably walk or take short public transport trips to most of the Zagreb sights you want to see.
Highlights: Ban Jelačić Square, Tkalciceva Street, Dolac Market, and the Zagreb Cathedral.
Atmosphere: Lively, bustling, and very close to major attractions.
Recommended hotels: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, The Westin Zagreb, Le Premier Boutique Hotel Zagreb, Hotel Dubrovnik, Hotel Jägerhorn, Met Boutique Hotel, Amadria Park Hotel Capital, Hostel Swanky Mint, Hostel 63 Zagreb
British Square or Britanski trg is a great neighbourhood to stay in for an authentic, local experience.
British Square (Britanski trg):
Ideal for: Located just a few blocks west of the Zagreb's main city square, Ban Jelačić Square, the small area around British Square is great for those who enjoy a lively market atmosphere, historic charm, and a taste of local life. It's a pleasant area to stay in thanks to the 19th century Viennesse-style buildings and genine local vibe.
Highlights: Britanski trg hosts a traditional open-air market every day, offering fresh produce, and a dedicated antiques market on Sundays.
Atmosphere: A blend of historic architecture, cultural vibrancy, and a market square feel.
Recommended hotels: Fingerprint Tree Apartment
Maksimir
Ideal for: A peaceful oasis surrounding Maksimir Park to the north-east of Zagreb city centre, this suburban neighbourhood is great for families, park lovers, and those who enjoy a more residential setting.
Highlights: Maksimir Park, Zagreb Zoo, and the Maksimir Stadium.
Atmosphere: Relaxed, with a focus on green spaces and outdoor activities.
Recommended hotels: Villa Madison, Hotel Vila Tina,
Jarun Lake is a favourite local place to swim in Zagreb during the summer months and a great place to stay if you're looking for peace and quiet.
Jarun Lake
Ideal for: Set around two lakes to the south-east of the city, Jarun offers a more relaxed setting for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families with young kids. Just bear in mind it is a little way out of the city - around a 30 to 40-minute drive from Zagreb bus station depending on traffic or approximately 45 minutes by tram.
Highlights: Jarun Lake is known for swimming, rowing, kayaking, jogging trails, and a vibrant nightlife scene especially during the summer when there are many festivals and concerts held here.
Atmosphere: Tranquil lakeside surroundings with a mix of recreational and leisure activities. Linger over coffee by the lake or go for a swim on a hot sunny day.
Recommended hotels: Hotel Antunović, Hotel Jarun, Hotel Magdalena
Trnje
Ideal for: Located south of the main Zagreb bus station, this neighbourhood is popular with business travelers and those just passing through as it's close to the business district. Lots of big hotel chains can be found here, including Doubletree by Hilton Zagreb and Hilton Garden Inn Zagreb.
Highlights: Proximity to Zagreb Fair exhibition centre (Zagrebački Velesajam), the National and University Library in Zagreb, Bundek Lake, and Green Gold shopping center.
Atmosphere: Business-oriented, yet with local charm and accessibility.
Recommended hotels: DoubleTree by Hilton Zagreb, Hilton Garden Inn Zagreb, Livris Hotel, Hotel 9
Stay in Novi Zagreb and check out the two-storey slide at the Museum of Contemporary Art!
Novi Zagreb
Ideal for: Visitors interested in modern architecture and a more residential vibe. Not many visitors venture south of the Sava river to Zagreb's newer suburbs, but its proximity to the airport and calmer feel are reasons not to overlook Novi Zagreb.
Highlights: The Museum of Contemporary Art (MSU) that has a 2-storey slide(!), Arena Centar mall, Bundek Lake, proximity to Zagreb airport, and the Sava River embankment.
Atmosphere: Suburban feel with newer developments, cosy guesthouses, and a range of useful amenities.
Recommended hotels: Mövenpick Zagreb Hotel, Apartment Emma
3. Luxury Hotels in Zagreb
Looking for luxury? Zagreb's top five-star hotels offer it all from world-class spas and Michelin-starred restaurants to Grand Ballrooms and "heavenly beds".
The Esplanade Zagreb Hotel goes above and beyond when it comes to old school opulence.
Esplanade Zagreb Hotel [Lower Town]
Address: Mihanovićeva 1, 10000 Zagreb
One of the very best hotels in Zagreb in terms of prestige, service and aesthetics, the 5-star Esplanade Zagreb Hotel offers luxurious rooms, gourmet dining, and a sophisticated atmosphere. Its Art Deco design, Michelin-starred Zinfandel restaurant, and central location within Zagreb's Lenuci's Horseshoe (where many of the city's most elegant parks and museums are) make it a popular choice for upscale travelers who love old school opulence. Expect comfy armchairs, the softest bed linens, and huge marble bathrooms. During the Zagreb Christmas market the hotel even hosts its own hugely popular Advent experience known as "Fooling Around" featuring gourmet food, live music, and magical decor.
Special features:
Great choice for those travelling with pets: The Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is one of the most pet-friendly hotels in Zagreb thanks to their dedicated VIP Dog Service. This additional service costs €45,13 and includes a specially-designed bed for your dog and luxury dog treats on arrival.
Rooms at art'otel Zagreb feature the work of Croatian artist Boris Bućan.
art'otel Zagreb [Lower Town]
Address: Petrinjska ul. 7, 10000, Zagreb
Opened in 2023, this brand-new 5-star hotel is just a 4-minute walk from Zagreb's main Ban Jelačić Square. We especially enjoyed the genuine and friendly welcome from the reception staff, great views of the Upper Town from the rooftop bar, the spacious junior suite (pictured above), and relaxing in the pool and spa area. Lovers of Japanese cuisine should check out their pan-Asian restaurant, YEZI, which is headed by chef Werner Seebach who previously worked at Werner Seebach and dedicated Dim Sum Chef Tom Tian Hau Low.
Special features:
Good choice for art lovers: The interior decor is themed around visionary Croatian artist Boris Bućan whose striking art adds flair and originality to the sleek and thoroughly modern aesthetic.
Opulent interiors at The Westin Zagreb make it one of the best hotels in Zagreb.
The Westin Zagreb [Lower Town]
Address: Krsnjavoga 1, 10000 Zagreb
Despite its somewhat ugly exterior, The Westin Zagreb is an excellent 5-star Zagreb hotel known for its spacious rooms, top-notch Health Academy spa center, well-equipped gym and upscale dining options. It caters to both business and leisure travelers, offering rooms with separate office areas and dedicated conference facilities.
Special features:
Extremely comfortable beds: The Westin Zagreb are justifiably proud of their "Heavenly® Beds" which ensure maximum comfort for a great night's sleep.
Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre offers comfortable rooms in a convenient location.
Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre [Lower Town]
Address: Ulica Kneza Branimira 29, 10000 Zagreb
Offering a sleek and chic stay close to the main Zagreb bus station, Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre is a great choice for business travellers and those on a short stay. Enjoy the well-designed and thoughtful rooms and complimentary bikes to zoom around town. There's also a 24-hour fitness centre and dogs are welcome!
Sheraton Zagreb Hotel [Lower Town]
Address: Ulica Kneza Borne 2, 10000 Zagreb
Housed in a monolithic glass-fronted building, the Sheraton Zagreb Hotel is a great option for business travel hotel in Zagreb thanks to its location close to many of the city's corporate offices. While their rooms and public spaces generally lack soul, a total of 13 conference rooms and a slick events team make the Sheraton a popular choice for meetings.
The rooftop infinity pool is Hotel Zonar's USP.
Hotel Zonar Zagreb
Address: Trg Krešimira Ćosića 9, 10000, Zagreb
Set in a shiny high-rise around 2.5km south-west of Ban Jelačić Square, this new 4-star hotel is popular with both business and leisure travellers. While the location is a bit inconvenient for an action-packed weekend break, the designer rooms with sensational views, warm staff, and well-equipped gym make for a great work base or home-from-home.
Special features:
Zagreb's coolest rooftop pool: Zonar's USP is their dizzying rooftop infinity pool and bar which offers unmatched 360-degree views of the city. Non-residents can also visit the rooftop for a 10 euro fee which includes a cocktail. Note that the pool itself is an adults-only space.
Hotel Le Premier offers comfortable rooms and a central location.
4. The Best Boutique Hotels in Zagreb
Hotel Le Premier [Lower Town]
Address: Ulica kralja Držislava 5, 10000, Zagreb
Hotel Le Premier is set in a charming 20th century palace that's been tastefully redesigned as a boutique 5-star hotel known for its elegant design, upscale accommodations, cigar lounge, and gourmet restaurant. In total there are 60 rooms plus a palatial presidential penthouse apartment. If fitness and relaxation are important to you, bear in mind that the gym and spa area are small and have very limited facilities compared to other 5-star hotels in Zagreb.
Hotel Jägerhorn's intimate courtyard is the perfect retreat from Zagreb's busy city streets.
Hotel Jägerhorn [Lower Town]
Address: Ilica 14, 10000, Zagreb
Established in 1827 in a tranquil passageway just off Zagreb's main street, Hotel Jägerhorn is the oldest hotel in the city. It's also our favourite boutique hotel in Zagreb thanks to its cosy courtyard vibe and its annual transformation into a winter wonderland for the city's Advent festivities. As if that wasn't enough, the convenient location just 5 minutes from Zagreb's main square, Ban Jelačić, makes it the perfect choice for a relaxing weekend break.
Special features:
Romantic setting: Hotel Jägerhorn's historic charm and secluded setting make it a great choice for a romantic city break in Zagreb. Don't miss the steps winding up through a wood in the hotel's courtyard which offer a particularly attractive private route up into Zagreb's Upper Town.
Opulent decor and great service make the Hotel Amadria Park a great choice for a romantic Zagreb city break.
Amadria Park Hotel Capital Zagreb [Lower Town]
Address: Ulica Jurišićeva 22, 10000, Zagreb
Another superb option for a romantic getaway in Zagreb (and another of our personal favourites) is the 4-star Amadria Park Capital heritage hotel. Built in 1923 to house the Croatian branch of Austrian bank Wiener Bank-verein, this elegant Art Deco building has been lovingly converted into a chic luxury hotel.
The rooms come in a wide variety of sizes from cosy modest doubles to huge "heritage" rooms featuring original wooden panelling and decor. Once you've checked in, enjoy a drink at the bar, Caffe Capital, which is popular with well-heeled Zagreb locals thanks to its Viennese-inspired design and delicious sweet treats like pralines and sachertorte.
Special features:
Private clubroom in the original bank vault: Don't miss the hotel's most unique feature, an exclusive bar housed in the bank's former vault. The space can either be hired privately for events or groups, or accessed as an honesty bar where you can settle into a comfortable armchair with a dram of your favourite whisky (or rakija!).
A comfortable room at the Met Boutique Hotel in Zagreb's Lower Town.
Met Boutique Hotel [Lower Town]
Address: Praška ulica 4, 10000, Zagreb
This small 26-room boutique hotel ticks all the boxes if you're looking for a relaxing stay in an elegant, well-designed building close to all Zagreb's main attractions. The interiors are light and airy with a chic, contemporary feel and high attention to detail. Why not start the evening at Pen 22, the hotel's trendy cocktail bar that's popular with locals year-round and focuses on signature drinks based on classic Croatian liquors. When you're ready, you can move next door to their Modern European fine dining restaurant, Valmarie, which showcases Istrian truffles and fish fresh from the Adriatic.
Hotel Well is a great choice for those looking for spa hotels close to Zagreb.
5. Zagreb's Top Spa & Wellness Hotels
Hotel Well at Terme Tuhelj [40km from Zagreb]
Address: Ulica Ljudevita Gaja 4, 49215, Tuheljske Toplice
Situated in peaceful rural surroundings 40km from Zagreb, Hotel Well at Terme Tuhelj thermal springs bills itself as Croatia's top wellness hotel. Guests can book packages which include half board at the hotel, the use of the Sauna Centre, which is apparently the largest in Croatia, and also the indoor and outdoor pools of the 15,000m2 Water Planet aquapark next door. Luxury spa treatments are handled by the SPAeVITA Centre which offers a diverse menu featuring everything from a Whole Body Underwater Massage and Chocolate Massage to Vitamin Body Wrap and Cleopatra Baths. It's a great venue for families looking for both adventure and relaxation all in one place.
Special features:
Healing mud pools: Guests can fully immerse themselves in the wellness vibe by trying healing mud treatments and even venturing into the natural thermal pools themselves (it is recommended to check with Terme Tuhelj in advance if they are open, since they were closed when we visited in summer 2023).
The spa at Sheraton Zagreb Hotel makes up for the lack of character in the rest of the hotel.
Sheraton Zagreb Hotel [Lower Town]
Address: Ulica Kneza Borne 2, 10000 Zagreb
As previously mentioned The Sheraton may not be the most aesthetically-pleasing Zagreb luxury hotel, but it more than makes up for that with its comprehensive Health Club TT. As well as a well-equipped large gym, guests can enjoy the spacious indoor pool, Finnish and bio saunas, a Turkish steam bath, beauty salon and Swedish and Thai massages.
Join a spin class at World Class fitness centre at the Westin, one of the very few places in Croatia to offer it.
The Westin Zagreb [Lower Town]
Address: Krsnjavoga 1, 10000 Zagreb
The Westin Zagreb have named their 1400m2 facility the World Class spa and fitness centre, revealing big ambitions indeed. The reality is more prosaic but practical ; there's a large indoor pool, sauna, steam room, spin room, and well-equipped gym with daily group workouts for spinning, pilates, yoga, and more.
Dip into the inviting spa facilities at the 4-star Grand Hotel Zagreb.
Grand Hotel Zagreb
Jankomir 27, 10090, Zagreb
This glass-fronted modern 4-star hotel opened in 2023 and boasts a 800m2 wellness and fitness centre, including an indoor pool, shallow children’s pool, Jacuzzi, 4 types of sauna, a tepidarium and salt rooms. It's located close to the highway on the western side of the city around 9km from Ban Jelačić Square, making it a good option for those passing through Zagreb or spending limited time in the city centre.
Experience life in Zagreb like a local by staying in House Dvornik in the Upper Town.
6. Top Zagreb Apartment Rentals
The sheer number and variety of private apartment rentals in Zagreb mean there is something for everyone, whether you're looking to rent an entire villa or just a simple studio for a quick city break. Here's just a few suggestions that our team of locals recommend:
House Dornik [Upper Town]
Address: 23 Opatovina ulica, 10000 Zagreb
This attractive house has an unbeatable location in the Upper Town and offers an impressive 110 m² of living space, including 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. In total it can sleep 7 guests with one main double room and two further bedrooms with bunk beds and single beds. There's also an on-site coffee shop, bike hire is available, and guests can bring pets along on request without any extra charges.
Special features:
In-house yoga classes: Take a break from the kids and book an on-site yoga class to add a little rest and relaxation to your stay.
Enjoy homely vibes and inviting interiors at 3on7 Apartments.
3on7 Apartments [Lower Town]
Address: Frankopanska 7, 10000, Zagreb
Danijela and Alen Beslagic, the owners of 3on7 Apartments, have done a fantastic job of creating a cosy, home-from-home vibe in their trio of deluxe Zagreb apartments in the heart of the Lower Town. Sink into comfortable armchairs, luxuriate in the comfortable beds, and enjoy the complimentary wine and other goodies in your own personal Zagreb apartment.
Apartment Emma is a top apartment rental option in Novi Zagreb.
Apartment Emma (with sauna) [Novi Zagreb]
Address: Ulica Doktor Luje Naletilica 15M, 10000, Zagreb
Located in Novi Zagreb to the south of the city, this luxurious apartment comes with its own sauna and a stunning covered terrace ideal for evening drinks or dining al fresco. The one bedroom property can sleep up to four guests, with an additional sofa bed in the living room, and offers free parking on site which is ideal if you're just passing through Zagreb.
Tesla Design Apartments Zagreb [Lower Town]
Address: 16 Teslina ulica, 10000, Zagreb
Ideal for small groups or families since, these centrally-located apartments can be booked together as a private unit which can sleep up to 6 guests. The one-bedroom apartment has everything you need for a comfortable self-catering stay, including a small kitchen and a nice balcony that's an ideal spot for lingering over your morning coffee. The property is just 300 metres away from Ban Jelačić Square, meaning you can easily walk to most of Zagreb's main attractions.
Enjoy comfortable rooms and great service at THE City Lodge in Zagreb's Lower Town.
THE City Lodge - Boutique Apartments [Lower Town]
Address: 19 Gundulićeva ulica, 10000, Zagreb
These recently-renovated apartments are just 500 metres from Ban Jelačić Square and offer everything you need for a weekend break in Zagreb. Each studio sleeps between 3-4 people and is finished to a very high standard including a small kitchen and seating area or desk. We love the bright and airy design and calm environment, especially given the central location.
Swanky Mint is our favourite hostel in Zagreb thanks to the onsite pool!
7. Zagreb's Best Hostels & Budget Accommodation
Swanky Mint Hostel [Lower Town]
Address: Ilica 50, 10000, Zagreb
Known for its modern design and vibrant social atmosphere, Swanky Mint is a one of our favourite Zagreb hostels thanks to its funky modern design and fun social atmosphere. Located just 700 metres from the main Ban Jelačić Square, it's ideal both for solo travellers, groups, and couples since there are both dorm and private rooms on offer. Grab a drink on the rooftop bar which regularly features live music, pub quizzes, and other events during the summer.
Special features:
Outdoor pool: Swanky Mint's standout feature is the big outdoor pool which is a true oasis during Zagreb's sweltering summer months.
Chillout Hostel is ideal for those who want to enjoy Zagreb's vibrant nightlife.
Chillout Hostel Zagreb [Lower Town]
Address: Ilica 16, Lower Town, 10000, Zagreb
This lively central hostel is ideal for those who want to party hard since there's a rooftop bar onsite with regular DJ and themed nights. There are 4-bed and 6-bed dorms available as well as some private double rooms. It's a great place for solo travellers in particular to make new friends and explore Zagreb's vibrant nightlife through one of the hostel's popular bar crawls.
Main Square Hostel [Lower Town]
Address: Ulica Ivana Tkalčića 7, 10000, Zagreb
As the name suggests, Main Square Hostel is located right on Zagreb's central Ban Jelačić Square. That's the major selling point of this otherwise largely unremarkable hostel that delivers clean and comfortable dorms ideal for backpackers and younger travellers looking to maximise their time in the city.
Hotel Jarun is a hotel for families in Zagreb thanks to the quiet location and free parking.
8. Family-Friendly Accommodation in Zagreb
Hotel Jarun [Jarun Lake]
Address: Hrgovići ulica 2, 10110, Zagreb
Located in the calm residential neighbourhood surrounding Jarun Lake, Hotel Jarun is a great choice for families. Although it's 5km from Zagreb's main square, there's free parking on site or you can walk 5 minutes to the nearest tram stop where the no 17 will whisk you into the city centre in 20 minutes. Cots are available free of charge for children under 2 years old, and the well-stocked breakfast buffet offers lots of kid-friendly choices. Our favourite thing about this hidden gem is how friendly the staff are, and the fact there's a small but functional gym in the basement - a bonus feature for a hotel of this size.
Rooms Zagreb 17 offers comfortable rooms for families right next to Ban Jelačić Square.
Rooms Zagreb 17 [Upper Town]
Address: Pavla Radića 22, building No2, 10000, Zagreb
With a superb location just one minute from Ban Jelačić Square and overlooking famous Tkalčićeva Street, Rooms Zagreb 17 guesthouse is a great affordable option for a family-friendly trip to Zagreb's Christmas Market. Rooms are clean and comfortable and the Batinić family who run the place are passionate about welcoming visitors into their property and their beloved city.
Special features:
Ski storage: There's even a place to store skis if you're thinking of hitting the slopes of Sljeme above Zagreb city.
Hotel 9 has a killer location literally opposite the main Zagreb bus station.
9. Best Hotels near Zagreb Bus Station
Hotel 9 [Trnje]
Address: Avenija Marina Držića 9, 10000, Zagreb
Located literally opposite the Zagreb Bus Station, Hotel 9 is a great choice for those with early morning flights who are planning to take the airport shuttle bus from here or buses to other parts of Croatia and beyond. Hotel 9 bills itself as a luxury boutique hotel, a label which has mostly been interpreted through shiny decor and neon lighting. While the glitzy decor may be a little much for minimalist types, the spacious rooms, comfortable beds, decent breakfast and unbeatable location make it a real treat for weary travellers in need of rest.
Another of our favourite Zagreb boutique hotels is Livris Hotel near the bus station.
Livris Hotel [Trnje]
Address: Rapska Ul. 12, 10000, Zagreb
Similar to Hotel 9, Livris Hotel positions itself as a boutique hotel and is a very convenient option for those travelling via the main Zagreb bus station. For us Livris has the edge over Hotel 9 since the rooms are nicer and it's still only a 12-minute walk from the station. The deluxe double rooms in particular are worth the extra cost for a lot more space and a small balcony.
Wondering what to do in Zagreb? Here's some ideas from our team of locals...