Where to Stay in Zagreb in 2026 – The Best Places to Stay and Areas to Visit

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

FIRST TIME IN ZAGREB

FIRST TIME IN ZAGREB

Lower Town

Lower Town is a lively and historic district that makes up one half of central Zagreb. It is characterized by its grand streets and avenues, its spacious green parks and its stunning Austro-Hungarian architecture.

CHECK TOP HOTEL CHECK TOP HOSTEL CHECK TOP AIRBNB

ON A BUDGET

ON A BUDGET

Kaptol

The Kaptol neighbourhood is located north of the city centre. Once separated from Upper Town by Krvavi Most (Bloody Bridge), Kaptol is today part of the Upper Town with just a narrow street dividing the two areas.

CHECK TOP HOTEL CHECK TOP HOSTEL

NIGHTLIFE

NIGHTLIFE

Upper Town

Upper Town is a popular and historic district that makes up half of the city centre (along with Lower Town). It is the historical and cultural centre of the city and is where you’ll find excellent museums, churches, bars, cafes and shops.

CHECK TOP HOTEL CHECK TOP HOSTEL CHECK TOP AIRBNB

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

Britanski trg

The small neighbourhood of Britanski trg wins our vote for the coolest place to stay in Zagreb because of its awesome location and an excellent array of things to see, do and eat.

CHECK TOP HOTEL CHECK TOP HOSTEL CHECK TOP AIRBNB

FOR FAMILIES

FOR FAMILIES

Jarun

Jarun is a large, residential neighborhood located in western Zagreb. It is our number one pick for where to stay in Zagreb with kids because it offers so many incredible things to see and do.

CHECK TOP HOTEL CHECK TOP AIRBNB

A brief stay in Zagreb should be on every backpacking Croatia itinerary. Before locking in where you’re going to stay, let’s take a look, in more detail, at Zagreb’s best neighbourhoods. Each is a little different from the last, so be sure to read each section carefully and pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you!

1. Lower Town (Donji Grad) – Where to Stay for Your First Time

Lower Town is a lively and historic district that makes up one half of central Zagreb. It is characterised by its grand streets and avenues, its spacious green parks and its stunning Austro-Hungarian architecture.

This part of the city is packed with museums, art galleries, restaurants, shops, bars and cafes. Because there’s so much to see, do and experience in Lower Town, it is one of the best places to stay in Croatia for those after history, culture and architecture.

• Best For: Museums and culture, grand architecture, parks, and cafes.
• The Vibe: Elegant, spacious, and Austro-Hungarian feel.
• Proximity to Airport: Around 25-35 minutes from Zagreb Airport by taxi.
• Transport Level: Great tram connections and overall super walkable for most major sights.
• Budget: Mid-range, with a heap of classic hotels and good-value apartments.
• Crowds: Busy around Ban Jelacic Square and museums, but much quieter in the parks.

Top Things to Do in Lower Town

1. Dance the night away at SPUNK.
2. Drink cocktails at the atmospheric Bacchus Jazz Bar.
3. Explore Zrinjevac Square.
4. Go for a stroll through the lush and expansive Lenuci Horseshoe.
5. Marvel at the stunning Croatian National Theatre.
6. Sip a coffee or a cocktail at Dezman Bar.
7. Stop and smell the roses at the Botanical Garden.

Best Hotel: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

The Esplanade Hotel is centrally located in Lower Town. This LUSH five-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities and elegant décor. It also provides a gym, rooftop terrace, sauna and restaurant, which is why it’s my favourite hotel for those with a lil’ extra cash to splash.

Best Hostel: Palmers Lodge Zagreb

Palmers Lodge Zagreb feels like your classic, no-frills hostel. It has clean dorms, solid beds, friendly staff, and a location that makes exploring stupidly easy. It’s not a party hostel, but it’s social enough that you’ll meet others without too much effort.

Best Airbnb: Incredible rooftop apartment

Zagreb is a beautiful city, and it’s even prettier from above – this Airbnb has an incredible rooftop from which you can enjoy the great view, beautiful sunrise and sunset every day. Located directly in the centre, you are close to cool attractions, tasty restaurants and cosy cafes. The host is known for going above and beyond for their guests, providing everything you need and offering great advice.

2. Kaptol – Where to Stay on a Budget

The Kaptol neighbourhood is located north of the city centre. Once separated from Upper Town by Krvavi Most (Bloody Bridge), Kaptol is today part of the Upper Town with just a narrow street dividing the two areas. Kaptol is the historic religious centre of Zagreb. It’s where you’ll find the stunning and iconic Zagreb Cathedral as well as several excellent galleries and museums, including the Zagreb City Museum.

This area of town is also my top pick for budget travellers. Dotted throughout the winding cobblestone streets are a great selection of hostels, hotels and apartments that offer fantastic accommodation at a great price.

• Best For: Historic landmarks, cathedral views, traditional markets, and exploring Zagreb’s medieval core.
• The Vibe: Centuries-old, atmospheric, and deeply tied to Zagreb’s religious and cultural history.
• Proximity to Airport: Not too far, approx 25-35 minutes from Zagreb Airport by taxi.
• Transport Level: Walkable from the city centre, with easy tram access just below the district.
• Budget: Mid-range to upscale, with boutique hotels and heritage stays nearby.
• Crowds: Busy around the Cathedral and Dolac Market, but much quieter in the side streets.

Top Things to Do in Kaptol

1. Browse more than 140,000 artefacts at the Croatian Natural History Museum.
2. Delve deep into history at the Zagreb City Museum.
3. Dine on delicious local dishes at Nokturno.
4. Drink cocktails and enjoy a few sweet treats at Corner Bar.
5. Enjoy excellent local beers at Pivnica Mali Medo.
6. Experience the Museum of Broken Relationships.
7. Feast on excellent Italian fare at Capuciner.
8. Indulge in tasty creations at Kob Mike.
9. Marvel at the architecture and design of the Zagreb Cathedral.
10. Sip a glass of wine in one of the oldest wine cellars in Zagreb at Vinoteka Bornstein.

Best Hotel: Stellar Boutique Modules

Hotel Jadran is a solid upgrade for a backpacker needing a dash of comfort. It has clean rooms, comfy beds, and a central location that lets you explore Zagreb on foot without completely blowing your budget.

Best Budget Guesthouse: Rooms Zagreb 17

Sobe Zagreb 17 feels like a budget-traveller win if you want privacy without losing that easy, social city vibe. The rooms are simple, clean, and super central, so you can drop your bag and be on Tkalciceva in minutes. It’s a chill, affordable base for exploring Zagreb.

Best Hostel: Main Square

This hostel is one of the best hostels in Zagreb. You’re right in the middle of the action, literally stumbling distance from bars, cafes, and late-night burek. The dorms are simple but social, and the staff are chill and helpful. You can’t go wrong with this one.

3. Upper Town – Where to Stay for Nightlife

Upper Town is a popular and historic district that makes up half of the city centre (along with Lower Town). It is the historical and cultural centre of the city and is where you’ll find excellent museums, churches, bars, cafes and shops.

But there’s more to Upper Town than history and legend. This winding maze of cobblestone streets is also where you’ll find some of the most vivid and vivacious nightlife in town. From buzzing cafes and lively pubs to boisterous dance floors and serious rock clubs, Upper Town is packed with plenty of after-dark fun and adventure.

• Best For: Medieval streets, iconic landmarks, viewpoints, and museums.
• The Vibe: Historic and quiet. Home to cobblestones, lantern-lit alleys, and a village-on-a-hill kinda feel.
• Proximity to Airport: Around 25-35 minutes by taxi from Zagreb Airport.
• Transport Level: It’s walkable once you’re up the hill, with the funicular connecting it to the Lower Town.
• Budget: Mid-range to boutique, with mostly heritage hotels and cute guesthouses.
• Crowds: Busy around St. Mark’s and the funicular, but very peaceful on side streets.

Top Things to Do in Upper Town

1. Choose from a wide range of beers at Pivnica Pinta.
2. Drink Rakhia, a type of schnapps, and dance the night away at Rakhia Bar.
3. Enjoy afternoon drinks at Vinyl.
4. Explore the Gric Tunnel, a WWII bomb shelter.
5. Feast on a sweet treat from The Cookie Factory.
6. Indulge in delicious goulash at Ozujsko Pub Tkalca.
7. Sample a vast array of local brews at Tolkien’s House.
8. Sip cool and refreshing beers at Ceh Pub.

Best Hotel: Hotel Dubrovnik Zagreb

Hotel Dubrovnik is still relatively affordable, but suddenly you’ve got a proper bed, a hot shower that actually works, and a location right on the main square. It’s clean, comfy, and ridiculously convenient, making it an easy base when you want a break from dorm life.

Best Hostel: Chillout Hostel Zagreb

Chillout Hostel Zagreb has that classic backpacker buzz, cheap beers, social vibes and easy to make friends. The rooms are simple but do the job, it’s in a great location, and the staff keep things fun. It’s got more of a party vibe (it’s literally above a bunker club), so if you’re after a quiet night, this one might not be for you.

Best Airbnb: Studio Arco Rustic

This Airbnb is a great shout if you want something simple, central, and easy. The room’s clean, the self-check-in is smooth, and you can walk to bars, cafés, and the old town in minutes. It’s an easy base for travellers who want a slice of privacy without drifting too far from the action.

4. Britanski trg (British Square) – Coolest Place to Stay in Zagreb

Tucked away on the west side of Upper Town, Britanski trg (British Square) is Zagreb’s unofficial hipster district. Here you can rub shoulders with Zagreb’s literati and party with the city’s young, hip and fabulous at one of the area’s many popular bars.

This area is also well-connected through Zagreb via bus and tram, so whether you’re looking to pop into the city centre or get back to nature, Britanski trg is a fantastic base for all your Zagreb adventures.

• Best For: Markets, antiques, lazy browsing, and a very local slice of Zagreb life.
• The Vibe: Relaxed, local neighbourhood and a little bohemian. You’ll find chefs here in the morning, collectors on Sundays and locals all day long.
• Proximity to Airport: Around 30-35 minutes by taxi from Zagreb Airport.
• Transport Level: Really good. Multiple tram lines run directly to the square.
• Budget: Mostly mid-range cafes and bakeries; the market itself is also affordable.
• Crowds: Busy in the mornings and on Sundays, mellow throughout the rest of the week.

Top Things to Do in Britanski trg

1. Dine on delicious fare at Zrno bio bistro.
2. Enjoy great beers at Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica.
3. Grab a delicious snack at The Brick: Booze and bites bar.
4. Have your mind blown at Muzej iluzija, the Museum of Illusions Zagreb.
5. Rub elbows with Zagreb’s young literati at Café Bar Sedmica.
6. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a treat from SteviQ Bar.
7. Sing, dance and party your heart out at Rock Club Pracka.
8. Sink your teeth into a flavourful and savoury slice at Pizzeria 6.
9. Sip drinks at the Swanky Monkey Garden Bar.
10. Start your day with an amazing cup of coffee from Eliscaffe.

Best Guesthouse: Guest House Ilicki Plac

Ilicki Plac Guesthouse works well for travellers who are after a quiet base without losing the ability to walk everywhere. The rooms are clean, modern, and feel more like a “local apartment” than a hotel, and you’re right off Ilica, so cafes, bars, trams, and the city centre are all close. And you’ll be 1 minute’s walk away from the British Square.

Best Hostel: Whole Wide World Hostel & Bar

Whole Wide World Hostel can be full backpacker chaos (in the best way). It has cheap drinks, party nights, and a crowd that’s always up for “one more beer”. The dorms are basic but do the job, and the staff keep the vibes high. There is also a FREE hot breakfast and coffee every morning!!

Best Airbnb: Fingerprint Tree Apartments

The host really had a great eye for detail. This verified Airbnb apartment is more than just stylish. Keep your feet warm on the heated floor during the winter season and enjoy the sun on your private patio during the hotter days. The home promises great comfort with an incredible location, stay in a safe neighbourhood with posh restaurants and cute parks within walking distance.

5. Jarun – Where to Stay for Families

At the heart of the neighbourhood is Jarun Lake. This massive man-made lake, also known as the Zagreb Sea, is surrounded by lush parklands and verdant landscapes. The lake offers visitors clear and calm waters perfect for swimming, boating or trying out new watersports, like wakeboarding.

In Jarun, you’ll also find an excellent selection of cafes and restaurants, perfect for indulging in a sweet treat or savouring a few local dishes and delicacies.

• Best For: Lakeside relaxing, swimming, cycling, nightlife, and outdoorsy activities.
• The Vibe: Sporty, social, and laid-back. Mornings are for joggers and paddleboarders, nights are for bars and clubs along the lake. If you want a place that can do both, this is it.
• Proximity to Airport: Around 30-40 minutes by taxi from Zagreb Airport.
• Transport Level: Easy tram access from the centre. Once you’re there, it’s all about walking, biking, and lakeside paths.
• Budget: Mostly mid-range cafés and bars; nightlife ranges from cheap student spots to pricier clubs.
• Crowds: Packed in summer, busy on weekends, but it is often quiet and peaceful on weekdays.

Top Things to Do in Jarun

1. Swim in the clear, calm waters of Jarun Lake.
2. Hit the beach and work on your tan.
3. Run, jump, laugh and play at the Jarun children’s playground.
4. Rent a paddleboat and cruise along the waters of Lake Jarun.
5. Feast on delicious homemade pasta at Il Secondo.
6. Indulge in local dishes at Pri Zvoncu in nearby Tresnjevka.
7. Start your day with a great cup of coffee from Caffe bar Ae.
8. Eat a big, juicy and succulent burger from Burger Bar Zagreb in nearby Tresnjevka.
9. Enjoy a delicious lunch with a great view at Jarunski Dvori.

Best Hotel: Hotel Jarun

Hotel Jarun is a solid step up from hostel life; the rooms are modern, quiet, and comfortable, and the staff are genuinely super welcoming. You’re a short walk from the lake, with trams into the centre close by, making it a fab base for exploring Jarun.

Best Budget Apartment: Apartments Sava

There are no hostels in Jarun, but if you’re after a budget-friendly stay, Apartments Sava is a solid choice. The studios are simple, clean, and practical, with enough space to feel at home for a few days. You’re close to the lake, cafés, and tram links, making it an affordable option without paying hotel prices.

Best Airbnb: Flexible SelfCheckIns 181

Located in a safe neighbourhood, you can be sure that your kids will have a great time. The apartment can fit up to six guests across two bedrooms and a living area. The lake, with its many activities, is within walking distance. You can also choose to whip up meals at home, in your fully equipped kitchen.

Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Zagreb and where to stay.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Zagreb might not shout for your attention the way Croatia’s coastline does, but it has its own way of latching onto your heart! Whether you end up in the cobbled lanes of the Upper Town, the café-lined streets of the centre, or out by Jarun’s lakeside paths, each neighbourhood gives you a slightly different version of the city. That’s the beauty of Zagreb: it’s small enough to feel comfortable, but varied enough that where you stay can really shape your trip.

One thing I’ve learned from my visits to Zagreb is that the city often rewards you for slowing down. Grab a coffee you didn’t plan on or wander down a side street just because it looks pretty. Leave a little room for the unexpected on your stay here, it can be where the magic happens 🙂