Zagreb is Croatia's capital, set in the north of the country along the Sava River at the southern slopes of the Medvednica mountain. It grew from two medieval settlements, Kaptol and Gradec, that were only formally united in the mid-nineteenth century, and the city's geography still reflects that: a compact historic core on a hill, a lower valley city spreading out along the river, and northern and northeastern districts climbing into the Medvednica foothills.
For a visitor, the practical question is whether to base yourself in the flat lower city around the main railway station and the central square, or up in the historic Upper Town. The two are close enough to walk between, but the difference in atmosphere, noise and terrain matters. This guide covers the areas the sources identify, what kind of traveller each suits, and what you will find there at different budgets.
Best areas to stay in Zagreb
1. Donji Grad (the lower city, around Ban Jelačić Square and the main railway station)
This is the flat, central part of Zagreb, built up after the 1880 earthquake into the characteristic layout the city still has today. Ban Jelačić Square is the main square, and the central railway station (Glavni kolodvor) sits at the northern edge of this zone. Many of the city's hotels cluster here, from small three-star places to large four-star properties, and several sit within a few hundred metres of the station or overlook the main square.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone arriving by train, since you can walk to the main square, the cathedral area and the Upper Town from here without needing transport. It is also the most convenient base if you want restaurants, shops and transport connections on your doorstep. Expect city noise around the busier streets, and note that this area is flat and easy on foot, unlike the hill above it.
2. Gornji grad (Upper Town, the historic Gradec and Kaptol core)
The Upper Town is the old urban nucleus, made up of the historic settlements of Gradec and Kaptol, with Zagreb Cathedral and the Lotrščak Tower on Grič among its landmarks. It is described as one of the best-preserved urban nuclei in Croatia. This is the most atmospheric part of the city to stay in if you want the historic centre on your doorstep.
It suits travellers who prioritise character and walkability over convenience for transport, and who do not mind slopes, since the Upper Town sits on a hill above the lower city. Accommodation here is more limited and skews toward smaller properties rather than large hotels. The practical point is the terrain: you will be walking uphill from the lower city, and the streets are steep in places.
3. Around the main railway station and Branimirova
The streets immediately around Glavni kolodvor, including Branimirova, form a practical cluster of accommodation. Several mid-range hotels and at least one hostel sit within a few hundred metres of the station, and the main bus station is also within walking distance of some of them. This is the area to consider if your trip involves arriving or leaving by train or bus, or if you want a straightforward base with easy connections.
It suits budget and mid-range travellers who value transport links over historic atmosphere. You will find a mix of hostels and three- and four-star hotels here. The trade-off is that it is a working transport area rather than a scenic one, though the main square is a short walk or tram ride away.
4. The business district and areas south of the Sava
South of the river and away from the historic core, Zagreb spreads into business and commercial zones. The business district lies a few kilometres from the central railway station, and further south you find areas near the Zagreb Fair and the airport approach, including Buzin. Hotels here tend to be larger, modern four-star properties aimed at business travellers and those passing through.
This suits travellers with a car, those doing business in the city, or anyone needing quick access to the airport or the motorway rather than the old town. It does not suit visitors who want to walk to the main sights, since you will depend on trams, buses or a car to reach the centre.
5. Eastern suburbs and outlying districts
Some accommodation sits in the eastern suburbs and outer districts, including Sesvete to the northeast and areas along the main roads leading out of the city. These are quieter, more residential locations, and some properties here are aimed at travellers passing through by road, with easy access to the motorway. A few hostels also sit slightly outside the centre in residential streets.
This suits budget travellers and drivers who want lower-key surroundings and do not mind commuting into the centre. You will find hostels and smaller hotels in these areas. The practical point is distance: you will rely on trams, buses or a car to reach the main sights, and journey times into the centre are longer than from the areas above.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Hostels are the main option, ranging from lively backpacker places with bars and dorm beds to small, quiet hostels in residential streets. Some are central, others sit further out with tram or bus connections. Expect dormitories, shared bathrooms in some cases, and free linen, towels or internet at many places.
- Mid-range: Three- and four-star hotels, often in the lower city, around the main railway station, or in the business district. Rooms are typically en-suite and air-conditioned, and larger properties may include restaurants, bars and meeting facilities.
- Splurge: Large, established hotels with long histories, including properties built for historic rail travellers and modern international chains. These offer full facilities such as restaurants, bars, ballrooms and, in some cases, notable city views.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in Donji Grad, the lower city around Ban Jelačić Square and the main railway station. It puts you within walking distance of the main square, the cathedral and the Upper Town, and it is the most convenient area if you are arriving by train. It is also flat and easy to navigate on foot, which makes it a straightforward base while you get oriented.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best if I am arriving by train?
The lower city around the main railway station (Glavni kolodvor) is the most practical, since several hotels and hostels sit within a few hundred metres of the station, and the main square is a short walk away.
Should I stay in the Upper Town or the lower city?
The Upper Town offers the historic core on your doorstep but involves hills and steeper streets, while the lower city is flat and better connected for transport. Choose the Upper Town for atmosphere and the lower city for convenience.
Where do budget travellers tend to stay?
Hostels are the main budget option, found both in the city centre and in residential areas a little further out, some with tram or bus connections to the centre. Central hostels put you within walking distance of the main sights.
Is it worth staying outside the centre?
It can suit drivers, business travellers or those needing quick airport and motorway access, since outlying and southern areas have larger modern hotels. The trade-off is that you will depend on trams, buses or a car to reach the historic centre.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide.