Zagreb: Croatia’s Vibrant Capital City

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, seamlessly marries the past with the present. With its charming old town, vibrant cultural scene, and flourishing culinary landscape, Zagreb has cemented its status as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking diverse and captivating experiences.

In this article, we will embark on a journey through the city, highlighting its top hotels, restaurants, shopping districts, and exciting events, including those hosted at Maksimir Stadium and Arena.

Hotels

Zagreb boasts a wide array of accommodation options, catering to a range of tastes and budgets. Here are a few prominent choices:

1. Esplanade Zagreb Hotel: This iconic 5-star establishment stands as a symbol of luxury and refinement in Zagreb. Positioned in the city center, the Esplanade offers impeccable service and opulent rooms that exude a classic charm.
2. Hotel Dubrovnik: Located on the bustling Ban Jelačić Square, Hotel Dubrovnik is a historic gem renowned for its central location, comfortable accommodations, and a rooftop terrace offering panoramic city views.
3. The Westin Zagreb: A contemporary luxury hotel, The Westin Zagreb features a wellness center, stylish rooms, and close proximity to major attractions such as the National Theatre and Mimara Museum.

List of Zagreb hotels (three stars – * * *) (updated 21st September 2023)

• Art Hotel Like (Like) (three stars – * * * )
• Best Western Hotel Stella (ex Stella) (three stars – * * * )
• Central (three stars – * * * )
• Croatia (three stars – * * * )
• Delminivm (three stars – * * * )
• Europa (three stars – * * * )
• Galerija (three stars – * * * )
• Gallus (ex Zlatni kokot) (three stars – * * * )
• Hotel Forty Two (three stars – * * * )
• Hotel Novi Zagreb (three stars – * * * )
• Hotel Raca (three stars – * * * )
• Hotel Residence (three stars – * * * )
• Jadran (three stars – * * * )
• Jagerhorn (three stars – * * * )
• Jarun (three stars – * * * )
• Laguna (three stars – * * * )
• Magdalena (three stars – * * * )
• Maroon (three stars – * * * )
• Martini (three stars – * * * )
• Meridijan 16 (three stars – * * * )
• National Hotel (three stars – * * * )
• Orient Zagreb (ex Orient Express) (three stars – * * * )
• Sliško (three stars – * * * )
• Sundial Boutique Hotel (three stars – * * * )
• The Loop (three stars – * * * )
• Tomislavov dom (three stars – * * * )
• Vienna (three stars – * * * )
• Vila Tina (three stars – * * * )

List of Zagreb hotels (four stars – * * * * ) (updated 21st September 2023)

• Academia (four stars – * * * * )
• Admiral Hotel (four stars – * * * * )
• Antunović (four stars – * * * * )
• Antunović Hotel East (ex Antunović) (four stars – * * * * )
• Aristos (four stars – * * * * )
• As (four stars – * * * * )
• Best Western Premier Hotel Astoria (four stars – * * * * )
• Canopy by Hilton Zagreb (four stars – * * * * )
• Diplomat (ex Miral) (four stars – * * * * )
• Dubrovnik (four stars – * * * * )
• Garden (four stars – * * * * )
• Grand Hotel Zagreb (four stars – * * * * )
• Hilton Garden Inn (four stars – * * * * )
• Hotel 9 (four stars – * * * * )
• Hotel Park 45 (four stars – * * * * )
• International (four stars – * * * * )
• Livris s depandansom (four stars – * * * * )
• Movenpick Zagreb (four stars – * * * * )
• Palace Hotel Zagreb (four stars – * * * * )
• Zonar Zagreb (ex Panorama Zagreb Hotel) (four stars – * * * * )
• Phoenix (four stars – * * * * )
• President (four stars – * * * * )
• Puntijar (four stars – * * * * )
• Time Out Heritage Hotel Zagreb (four stars – * * * * )
• Zovko (four stars – * * * * )
• Aparthotel Republika (four stars – * * * * )

List of Zagreb hotels (five stars – * * * * * ) (updated 21st September 2023)

• Esplanade Zagreb (five stars – * * * * * )
• Le Premier (five stars – * * * * * )
• Met Boutique Hotel (five stars – * * * * * )

Restaurants

Zagreb’s culinary scene is a delightful fusion of traditional Croatian dishes and international flavors. Here are some noteworthy dining establishments:

1. Vinodol: Nestled in the heart of the old town, Vinodol is celebrated for its Croatian cuisine. Don’t miss the štrukli (cheese strudel) or the hearty lamb stew for an authentic taste of Zagreb.
2. Noel: For a fine dining experience, Noel, a Michelin-starred restaurant, is the go-to destination, recognized for its innovative dishes and elegant ambiance.
3. Mali Bar: This trendy wine bar and restaurant offers a wide selection of wines and tapas-style dishes, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening with friends.

Shopping

Zagreb offers a diverse shopping experience, from charming markets to upscale boutiques:

1. Dolac Market: The renowned Dolac Market is Zagreb’s foremost open-air market, where you can discover fresh produce, local delicacies, and handcrafted goods.
2. Ilica Street: This bustling shopping thoroughfare is lined with fashion boutiques, international brands, and souvenir shops, making it ideal for a shopping spree.
3. Tkalciceva Street: Known for its lively atmosphere, Tkalciceva Street abounds with cafes, restaurants, and unique shops offering clothing, jewelry, and more.

Additionally, several shopping centers, including Arena Centar, Avenue Mall, City Center One, and Family Mall, are scattered throughout the city. Unlike other Croatian destinations, Zagreb is also home to prominent brands like Ikea, Tesla, Harley-Davidson, and iStyle (Apple Premium Partner store in Arena Centar).

Events

Zagreb hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, catering to various interests:

1. Maksimir Stadium: Serving as the home ground for GNK Dinamo Zagreb in their Champions League crusade and the Croatian National Soccer Team. Maksimir Stadium hosts thrilling football matches that are a must-see for sports enthusiasts.
2. Arena Zagreb: This modern indoor arena hosts concerts, sports events, and exhibitions. Be sure to check the event calendar for opportunities to catch a live performance or an exhilarating sports match.
3. Advent in Zagreb: During the Christmas season, Zagreb transforms into a magical wonderland, consistently earning the title of the Best European Advent for several years (even among strong competition!). The city’s Advent celebrations include festive markets, ice skating, and enchanting decorations.

Getting to these events and locations is often easy with a tram, bus, taxi, or Uber.

Conclusion

We barely scratched the surface with this article. Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a city that effortlessly captures the essence of both tradition and modernity. Whether you are exploring its historic old town, savoring Croatian cuisine, embarking on a shopping spree for unique souvenirs, or attending captivating events at Maksimir Stadium or Arena Zagreb.

You are destined to be enchanted by this vibrant European capital. Zagreb’s fusion of culture, cuisine, and entertainment renders it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a rich and diverse experience.