Zagreb is a compact and very safe city for tourists. All the areas listed below are excellent choices, each offering a unique experience. The city center is split between the historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad) on a hill and the lively Lower Town (Donji Grad) on the flats below. An efficient tram network and walkable streets connect every district, so even neighborhoods slightly outside the center are only a short ride from the main square. No matter which area you choose, you’ll remain well-connected to Zagreb’s attractions.

Lower Town (Donji Grad)

The Lower Town is Zagreb’s main downtown area and the largest part of the city. It stretches from the central Ban Jelačić Square south to the train station and west toward Britanski trg. This district features grand Austro-Hungarian architecture, broad boulevards, and many museums. As the city’s hub, it’s always bustling with shops, restaurants, parks, and cultural sites.

Best Suited For:

• First-time visitors, thanks to its central location near all major sights.
• History and art lovers, with museums, galleries, and historic buildings at every turn.
• Travelers without a car (everything is walkable and transit is abundant).

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Around Ban Jelačić Square (Main Square): The heart of Zagreb, with shopping streets and eateries, ideal for experiencing the city’s energy.
• Flower Square (Cvjetni trg): A lively pedestrian plaza just a few minutes from the main square, surrounded by cafés and shops.
• Martićeva & Vlaška Streets: Trendy streets in the east Lower Town known for design shops, hip cafes, and local life.
• Between the Main Square and the Train Station: Near Zrinjevac Park and King Tomislav Square – convenient for transit and lined with parks and monuments.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Near the Main Train Station at Night: King Tomislav Square and the immediate station area can be dim and mostly empty after dark. It’s safe, but not very lively late at night.
• Eastern End by the Bus Terminal: The zone around the intercity bus station (outside Donji Grad proper) is less charming and has some sketchy 24/7 bars, so it’s not ideal for tourists to stay.

Pros:

• Unbeatable central location, walking distance to nearly all attractions (main square, Cathedral, museums, parks).
• Excellent transport links, with many tram lines and the train/bus stations nearby for regional travel.
• Vast choice of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
• Plenty of dining and nightlife options, plus beautiful green spaces like Zrinjevac Park to relax.

Cons:

• Can be crowded and noisy, especially around the main square and major streets.
• Traffic and parking in the center are difficult, which can matter if you have a car.
• Accommodation prices tend to be a bit higher here due to the prime location.
• A few spots (near the station) are a bit gritty after dark, lacking the charm found elsewhere in the district.

Average Prices (per night):

• Budget: ~$45 for hostels or basic private rooms.
• Mid-range: ~$90 for standard 3★–4★ hotels and apartments.
• Luxury: ~$180 for high-end hotels and suites.

Upper Town (Gornji Grad)

The Upper Town is the oldest part of Zagreb, a charming medieval neighborhood atop a hill. Its cobbled streets and pastel-colored buildings date back centuries, creating a romantic, Old World atmosphere. Here you’ll find landmarks like St. Mark’s Church, the Stone Gate, and panoramic views of the city. Despite its historic feel, Upper Town is just a short walk (or funicular ride) down to the Lower Town, giving visitors the best of both worlds.

Best Suited For:

• Couples and honeymooners, for its quiet, fairy-tale charm and scenic vistas.
• History enthusiasts and culture buffs, with museums, galleries, and historic sites in a concentrated area.
• Photographers and wanderers, who will enjoy the quaint streets, gas lamps, and city viewpoints.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Near St. Mark’s Square: The center of Gornji Grad, where you’ll be surrounded by historic landmarks and vintage architecture.
• Around the Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata): A convenient spot on the eastern edge of Upper Town, offering quick access down to the main square while still in the old quarter.
• By the Funicular Station: Staying close to the little funicular (which links Upper and Lower Town) makes it easy to get around and is near cafes and the Lotrščak Tower lookout.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• There are no truly “bad” parts of Upper Town – it’s a small, safe area. Just be aware that it gets very quiet at night.
• Avoid lodging too far up the hill beyond the historic core (toward the wooded slopes of Medvednica), as it becomes purely residential and inconvenient without a car.
• If you have mobility issues, avoid places that require climbing a lot of stairs or steep streets (the terrain here is hilly).

Pros:

• Rich historical atmosphere with centuries-old buildings, giving an authentic feel of Zagreb’s past.
• Centrally located – despite being on a hill, it’s adjacent to the downtown; major attractions are on your doorstep or a short walk away.
• Peaceful and low-traffic at night (little noise, as nightlife is limited within the Upper Town itself).
• Unique sights like the Museum of Broken Relationships, galleries, and government buildings add cultural interest.

Cons:

• Limited accommodations (fewer hotels; mostly small guesthouses or apartments due to the historic nature and space constraints).
• Hilly terrain – you’ll be walking up and down a lot of steps or steep streets daily.
• Very quiet after dark; those seeking nightlife or late-night conveniences will need to walk down to Lower Town.
• Some buildings are old and may lack modern amenities (e.g. elevators or A/C), and a few are still under renovation from the 2020 earthquake (you might notice scaffolding on some historic structures).

Average Prices (per night):

• Budget: ~$36 for guesthouse rooms or hostel beds (limited availability).
• Mid-range: ~$80 for boutique hotels or apartments in historic buildings.
• Luxury: ~$145 for the few high-end apartments or hotels with premium services (rare in this area).

Kaptol

Kaptol is the district around Zagreb Cathedral and the Dolac market, directly north of the main square. Along with Gradec (Upper Town), it forms the other half of the Old Town, with a history dating back to medieval times. Kaptol’s highlights include the towering Gothic cathedral, the vibrant daily farmers’ market, and Tkalčićeva Street – a lively strip of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. This area blends sacred history with a fun nightlife scene, all within a few blocks.

Best Suited For:

• Nightlife lovers and young travelers, thanks to the many bars and clubs around Tkalčićeva Street.
• Backpackers and solo travelers, as there are several hostels and affordable private rooms here.
• Culture seekers, with the Cathedral, museums, and local market providing a dose of history and tradition.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Along Tkalčićeva Street: This pedestrian lane marks the border of Kaptol and is lined with cafés, bars, and nightlife. Staying nearby means endless dining and entertainment options at your doorstep.
• Near Dolac Market and the Cathedral: The streets immediately around Zagreb Cathedral and the open-air Dolac market keep you in the historic core with bustling daytime activity and sights.
• By Ribnjak Park: On Kaptol’s eastern side, near Park Ribnjak, offers a quieter atmosphere and green space while still being a short walk from the cathedral.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Ribnjak Park after dark: While fine by day, this park just behind the Cathedral has had incidents at night and is best avoided when it’s late and empty.
• Directly above busy bars: If you want a good night’s sleep, avoid accommodations right above the noisiest pubs on Tkalčićeva, as music can go on late.
• Outside the immediate Kaptol area: Don’t stray too far east into residential streets beyond the park or north where it becomes less connected – you’ll want to stay within a few blocks of the cathedral for convenience.

Pros:

• Historic significance – you’re in one of Zagreb’s oldest neighborhoods with the iconic cathedral and monuments at hand.
• Central and walkable, just minutes from the main square and adjacent to both Upper and Lower Town.
• Great nightlife and dining scene on Tkalčićeva and surrounding streets, perfect for meeting other travelers and locals.
• Variety of accommodations, including hostels, budget guesthouses, and some mid-range apartments, often at slightly lower prices than the main downtown.

Cons:

• The popularity of Tkalčićeva means noise at night – the area can be lively into the early hours, which isn’t ideal for light sleepers.
• Limited hotel options (mostly smaller inns and apartments, as there are few large hotels in Kaptol).
• Tourist crowds by day around the market and cathedral, which can make the area feel busy until evening.
• If you have a car, parking is difficult in this old quarter with many pedestrian-only zones.

Average Prices (per night):

• Budget: ~$32 for hostel beds or simple rooms in older buildings.
• Mid-range: ~$72 for a nice B&B or apartment close to the cathedral.
• Luxury: ~$159 for upscale apartments or boutique stays (traditional luxury hotels are rare here).

British Square (Britanski trg)

British Square, locally called Britanski trg or just “Britanac”, is a small square and neighborhood on the west end of the city center. Technically part of Lower Town, it stands out as a hip, artsy enclave with a local vibe. Every day, Britanski trg hosts a farmers’ market, and on Sundays it transforms into a famous antique/flea market popular with locals and visitors alike. The area around the square has stylish cafés, art galleries, and a relaxed residential feel, while still being only a 10-15 minute walk (or a quick tram ride) from the main square.

Best Suited For:

• Travelers seeking a local experience with fewer tourists, but still near downtown.
• Market lovers and shoppers, for the daily produce market and Sunday antique fair (great for finding unique souvenirs).
• Return visitors or long-stay travelers who want to live like a local in a trendy yet authentic Zagreb neighborhood.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Around Britanski trg itself: Staying right by the square means you can enjoy the morning market atmosphere and have cafés and shops at your door.
• Along Ilica Street (near Britanac): Ilica is the main street running through the area – here you’ll have tram line 6 at hand and plenty of stores and bakeries, plus an easy route straight into the heart of the city.
• Near the Greenery of Rokov Perivoj: A tiny park and upscale residential pocket just north of Britanski trg. This area provides a quiet retreat while still only a short walk from the square’s action.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Too far west of Britanski trg: If you go past the immediate Britanac area toward Črnomerec, you’ll find yourself farther from the city center and sights. Try to stay east of or around the Britanski Square vicinity to remain within easy reach of downtown.
• High up the hillside: North of Britanski trg, streets like Pantovčak climb uphill. These are lovely residential areas but can be steep and less convenient without a car, so not ideal for a short tourist stay if very far up.
• On Ilica far from the center: Ilica is a long street; avoid booking on Ilica far west of the Britanski stop, otherwise you may end up spending more time on trams to get to the attractions.

Pros:

• Authentic local vibe – you’ll mingle with residents at the open-air market and in neighborhood cafés rather than just other tourists.
• Farmers’ market & antique fair provide a charming atmosphere and unique shopping right at your doorstep.
• Quieter nights than the main commercial center; a good balance of central location with a residential feel.
• Good connectivity – tram line 6 stops at Britanski trg, linking you to Ban Jelačić Square in minutes, and you can even walk to the main square and museums easily.

Cons:

• Fewer accommodation options than the core downtown (mostly apartments or small boutique hotels, since big hotels concentrate in Lower Town proper).
• No major tourist attractions within the neighborhood itself (it’s more of a base to explore from, though the immediate area is enjoyable for its markets and cafés).
• Morning noise on market days – if your room faces Britanski trg, expect early activity as vendors set up stalls. Light sleepers might want to stay on a side street.
• You might need to take a short tram ride or 15-minute walk to reach the very center and some sights (not a huge drawback given the distance, but not as ultra-central as staying on the main square).

Average Prices (per night):

• Budget: ~$36 for simple guest rooms or budget apartments in the area.
• Mid-range: ~$80 for a comfortable apartment or boutique hotel room near the square.
• Luxury: ~$145 for a spacious upscale apartment or the occasional high-end lodging (luxury hotels are limited here).

Maksimir

Maksimir is a leafy residential district about 3 km east of the city center. It is best known for Maksimir Park, one of Europe’s most beautiful city parks, and the Zagreb Zoo located within it. The area features tree-lined streets and a calm, local atmosphere, making it a refreshing escape from the busy downtown. Maksimir is also home to Dinamo Zagreb’s football stadium and several local cafes and shops serving the surrounding community. Staying here offers a mix of urban living and nature.

Best Suited For:

• Families with children, who will love the large park and zoo for outings.
• Nature and outdoor enthusiasts – perfect for morning jogs, picnics, and a break from city concrete.
• Budget travelers or long-term visitors, as accommodation here is often more affordable and in quieter, local neighborhoods.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Near the Maksimir Park Entrance: Being close to the park (around Maksimirska cesta near the main gates) means instant access to greenery and the zoo, great for families and runners.
• Around Kvaternik Square (Kvatrić): On the western edge of Maksimir, this bustling square has its own daily market and tram junction. Staying here gives a local vibe and a quicker commute to the center, since it’s closer to downtown.
• Along Maksimirska Road: The main road from the center out to the park. Anywhere along this artery (up to the park) is convenient for trams into the city and has supermarkets and eateries used by locals.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Beyond the Maksimir Park (far east): Going further out to suburbs like Dubrava puts you far from tourist sights and the atmosphere becomes purely residential. It’s best to avoid these peripheral outer neighborhoods for lodging, as they offer little for travelers and require long tram rides.
• Isolated Residential Blocks: Some parts of Maksimir are very quiet housing estates. Unless you specifically want solitude, avoid staying deep inside residential zones that are a long walk from tram stops or the park. Stick closer to main roads for convenience.
• On Game Days near the Stadium: If you’re not in town for football, you might avoid being right next to the Dinamo stadium on match days due to crowds and noise (check the schedule if it matters to you).

Pros:

• Peaceful, green environment – a calm retreat with beautiful park scenery and tree-lined, calm streets, a big plus if you dislike city noise.
• Maksimir Park and Zagreb Zoo at your doorstep, providing free recreation and family entertainment easily.
• Generally budget-friendly accommodations compared to the city center – you can often get a larger apartment or a lower rate here.
• Local neighborhood feel – experience everyday Zagreb life, with local markets (Kvatrić), bakeries, and cafes not geared just to tourists.
• Well connected by tram (lines 4, 7, 11) so you can reach the main square in about 15 minutes.

Cons:

• Distance from the main attractions – you will rely on tram/bus or a longer walk (3+ km) to reach downtown sights, as none of the big museums or monuments are in Maksimir.
• Limited nightlife or dining variety – evenings are quiet here, with just a few local restaurants and bars; you might head to the center for more options.
• Less English spoken compared to touristy areas (many locals here, which is authentic but some shops may not cater to foreigners as much).
• Accommodation choices are mostly apartments and a few small hotels, so traditional hotel amenities (like 24-hour front desk or on-site restaurants) might be harder to find.
• During winter or bad weather, the main perk (the park) is less enjoyable, and you might feel a bit removed from the city’s indoor activities.

Average Prices (per night):

• Budget: ~$29 for basic apartments or private rooms in this area.
• Mid-range: ~$65 for comfortable studios or mid-level hotel rooms near the park.
• Luxury: ~$130 for the occasional high-end apartment or upscale boutique accommodation (few in number).

Jarun

Jarun is a neighborhood in southwestern Zagreb named after Lake Jarun, often called “Zagreb’s Sea”. Centered around a large lake with beaches, walking trails, and sports facilities, Jarun is a favorite leisure spot for locals. By day, people come here to jog, bike, row, or relax by the water; in summer, it even has a bit of a beach scene. By night (especially in summer), Jarun Lake’s clubs and bars come alive, making it a hub for nightlife away from the city center. The surrounding area is pleasant and suburban, considered one of the most beautiful parts of Zagreb, with modern apartment blocks and family houses.

Best Suited For:

• Families with children, for the open spaces, playgrounds, and kid-friendly activities (pedal boats, skating, etc.).
• Outdoor enthusiasts and sporty travelers, who will enjoy running/biking paths and recreational facilities around the lake.
• Nightlife seekers (in summer), since Jarun hosts some of the city’s liveliest bars and nightclubs by the water, away from residential areas.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Near the North Shore of Lake Jarun: This puts you close to the main recreational area and beaches. Look around neighborhoods like Staglišće or Vrbani (just north and west of the lake) which have parks and are within walking distance to the lakeside.
• By the Jarun Tram Terminus (Jarun stop): The east side of the lake, around Jarun Market and Hrgovići Street, is near the #17 tram’s last stop. Staying here means easy tram access to downtown while still being a short stroll from the lake.
• South Shore or near Arena Center: The southern end has fewer accommodations (mostly sports facilities), but if you find lodging there, you’ll be in a quiet area with quick road access. Alternatively, Blato/Rudeš area east of the lake is another option, though slightly farther, it’s still not too far by tram or car.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Right next to nightclub venues: Jarun’s clubs are mostly on the lake’s western bank. If you stay immediately adjacent to these, be aware weekends can get very loud until late. Unless partying is your goal, it’s best to stay a bit further from the club zone for peace at night.
• Far-flung western suburbs (Prečko and beyond): West of Jarun Lake, areas like Prečko are quite far out for a traveler itinerary and add extra commute time. Unless you have a specific reason to be there, it’s better to stay in the Jarun vicinity proper.
• Areas with poor transit links: Some parts south of the lake or between tram lines might require bus transfers. Avoid booking a place that isn’t within walking distance of a tram stop (Jarun or nearby stops), otherwise getting to the city can become inconvenient.

Pros:

• Beautiful lake setting – a unique stay in Zagreb where you can start your day with a lakeside walk or a swim in summer. It’s often called the most beautiful neighborhood in the city.
• Tons of recreational activities: biking paths, sports courts, rowing clubs, and even events or festivals (concerts and an annual InMusic festival) happen here, great for active travelers.
• Family-friendly environment, with safe areas for kids to play and no heavy traffic inside the park zone.
• In summer, vibrant nightlife without needing to go downtown – clubs at Jarun attract DJs and crowds, so you have entertainment options nearby if you want them.
• Generally modern accommodations – many apartments here are newer builds, with more space and amenities (and often free parking) compared to the city core.

Cons:

• Distance from the city center – Jarun is 6-7 km from central Zagreb, roughly a 20-30 minute tram ride. You’ll spend more time commuting to visit the main tourist sites.
• Seasonal appeal – in colder months or bad weather, the lake is less active; the area can feel very quiet and there’s not much to do when you can’t be outdoors.
• Limited dining options nearby – aside from a few pizzerias, cafes, and fast-food stands around the lake, you might not find a wide variety of restaurants and shops within walking distance of your lodging (expect a local supermarket, maybe a bakery). For more choices you may need to head to a mall or into town.
• Nightlife noise (if close to clubs) – the same clubs that are a perk for some can be a nuisance for others. On summer weekends, the music and crowds might be heard from some distance, so choose your exact location carefully if you want quiet nights.
• Not many hotels – mostly apartments or private rentals, so services like daily cleaning or reception desks are usually not available.

Average Prices (per night):

• Budget: ~$26 for simple private accommodations or hostel (if available) on the outskirts of the city near Jarun.
• Mid-range: ~$58 for a modern one-bedroom apartment or a nicer room close to the lake.
• Luxury: ~$115 for a large, upscale apartment or holiday home (traditional luxury hotels are not present in Jarun itself).

Novi Zagreb

Novi Zagreb (meaning “New Zagreb”) is the broad area south of the Sava River, developed mostly in the mid-20th century. It’s a complete contrast to the historic city center – here you’ll find wide boulevards, modernist apartment blocks, large parks, and shopping centers. Once purely residential, Novi Zagreb has grown into a vibrant extension of the city with museums, malls, and cafes of its own. Key landmarks include the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Arena Zagreb (a major events hall). While it lacks old-world charm, it offers a glimpse into Zagreb’s modern daily life and often the best deals on accommodation.

Best Suited For:

• Budget travelers and backpackers who want the most affordable stays (you generally get more for your money here).
• Travelers with cars or business visitors, as there’s ample parking, quick access to highways, and hotels that cater to conferences (plus the airport is easier to reach from here).
• Architecture and urbanism enthusiasts, curious about socialist-era city planning and contemporary Croatian architecture (the area is full of interesting examples of both).

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Središće (Museum of Contemporary Art area): This neighborhood in Novi Zagreb - East is home to the Museum of Contemporary Art and the lovely Bundek Park (with a small lake). Staying here means you have a cultural site next door, a scenic park, and direct tram lines to the center in about 10 minutes.
• Siget/Trnsko (Central Novi Zagreb): These areas are close to multiple tram routes (lines 7, 14) and the Avenue Mall. They offer convenient bases with many local eateries, and it’s a short ride across the river to downtown.
• Lanište (Arena Zagreb area): In Novi Zagreb - West, around the Arena shopping center and sports hall. Ideal if you’re attending a concert or event at the Arena. There are a couple of modern hotels here and it’s right by the highway (good for drivers), though tram service (line 14) reaches this area too.

Areas to Avoid Staying In:

• Far Outer Sections (Dugave, Velika Gorica): As Novi Zagreb spans wide, some parts like Dugave or the airport vicinity (Velika Gorica) are far from the city sights. Unless you have a specific need to be there, avoid booking accommodations that are well outside the main Novi Zagreb districts – they will feel isolated and require long bus rides.
• Locations far from tram lines: Novi Zagreb’s convenience heavily depends on tram connectivity across the river. If an accommodation is deep inside a residential zone with only a bus connection (or a long walk to a tram stop), it will be less convenient. Try to stay within a few blocks of a tram route or major road.
• Industrial zones: A few pockets in Novi Zagreb near the river or outskirts are industrial or barren (e.g. around the freight railway or old fairgrounds). These aren’t dangerous, but there’s nothing around and can be eerie at night, so they’re not ideal for visitors to stay.

Pros:

• Budget-friendly accommodations – you can find modern hotels or apartments here at significantly lower prices than in the city center. It’s the go-to area if you want to save money while staying in Zagreb.
• Modern comforts – buildings are newer, so you often get elevators, air conditioning, and parking, which some downtown historic places might lack.
• Good public transport – multiple tram and bus lines link Novi Zagreb to the center, and driving is straightforward (close to the highway and plenty of parking lots).
• Shopping and amenities – large malls (Avenue Mall, Arena Center) and supermarkets are in this area, plus some museums (the Contemporary Art Museum) and public spaces like Bundek Park, so you have plenty of facilities around.
• Peace and space – the neighborhoods are spacious and quieter at night; you won’t deal with tourist crowds or nightlife noise in residential parts of Novi Zagreb.

Cons:

• Lacks historic charm – the atmosphere is completely different from scenic Old Town; it can feel a bit bland or soulless to those looking for character.
• Few tourist attractions in walking distance – aside from the contemporary museum or occasional fairs, you’ll be commuting to see any of Zagreb’s famous sights.
• Can feel isolated – the area’s layout with wide roads and large apartment blocks means it’s less cozy for walking around, especially in the evenings when streets might be pretty empty.
• Limited nightlife and dining – beyond some local cafes, fast food, or mall food courts, there’s not a thriving restaurant or bar scene like in the center. Nightlife is mostly non-existent, so you’d travel to other parts of town for entertainment.
• Urban aesthetics – some travelers might not enjoy the concrete-dominated scenery or the utilitarian look of parts of Novi Zagreb.

Average Prices (per night):

• Budget: ~$29 for a basic private room or budget hotel in Novi Zagreb.
• Mid-range: ~$65 for a standard 3★ hotel or a well-appointed apartment in a new building.
• Luxury: ~$115 for a top-rated 4★ business hotel or a high-end modern apartment (generally cheaper than luxury options in the old city).

Summary of Top Areas to Stay in Zagreb

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Each of these neighborhoods offers something special, and all are well-connected to the rest of Zagreb. By choosing one of these top areas, you can’t go too far wrong – it just comes down to the style of experience you want during your stay in Croatia’s capital. Enjoy Zagreb!

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