August 29, 2023 – The Zagreb hotel scene is changing – and for the better. An overview of the new kids on the block.
Zagreb’s tourism and business offers are expanding, the arrival of Ryanair has made it more accessible than ever, and more visitors means the need for more beds.
Which has meant an increase in the private accommodation sector, but also some very welcome new arrivals on the Zagreb hotel scene in recent years. While luxury hotels such as Hotel Esplanade lead the way in terms of heritage and luxury, there are now plenty of other alternatives to tempt travellers looking for a little different.
Hilton Hotels have become a major force in recent years. The Double Tree Hilton was the original hotel in the city, and it has been joined by Hilton Garden Inn, as well as my favourite place to stay in the city – Canopy by Hilton. I can’t recall staying in a hotel that felt like it was part of the local community, and the cosy feel has made it an unlikely hit for digital nomads and remote workers as a place to work. Lovely spot.
This year has seen more quality additions to the Zagreb Hotel scene. Here are five newbies worth keeping an eye on their rates next time you plan a visit.
Hotel Zonar
A VERY swanky addition to the Zagreb hotel scene is Zonar, which opened earlier this year to replace the tired-looking Hotel Panorama. I spoke at a conference there recently, and I was very impressed with the laid-back style and modern touches. And THAT swimming pool on the roof – already a hit destination in the city, and no wonder why (check out the lead photo).
Designed as an urban centre for professional athletes, dynamic business people and progressive citizens of the world on holiday, the Zonar Zagreb Hotel offers 299 carefully decorated and equipped rooms and suites, two restaurants, a bar, a deli, a swimming pool on the rooftop featuring a panoramic view of Zagreb, a gym and 9 multipurpose conference rooms. Official website link.
MET Boutique Hotel
Last month, the emerging luxury boutique hotel scene in Zagreb received one worthy addition in the form of the Met Boutique Hotel. Located in Praska street in the centre of the city, this is a new artistic and design haven for everyone looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, located just a few steps from Zagreb’s main square.
As we embarked on designing our hotel, our aim was to create an interior that exudes modernity, comfort, and unmistakable luxury while shunning predictability. When travelers embark on a journey, they seek accommodations that transport them to a realm distinct from their own homes. And that’s precisely what awaits you here. The MET boutique hotel showcases an exterior and interior that radiate a unique and refined ambiance, spanning across 26 rooms and 5 floors, where art takes center stage. Official website link.
Grand Hotel Zagreb
Western Zagreb is becoming increasingly important as a business hub, and the growing number of hotels opening in this part of the city reflects that trend. April saw the opening of the 4-star Grand Hotel Zagreb, which has a total of 159 rooms and 4 suites, as well as congress halls and smaller meeting rooms. The hotel’s greatest asset is certainly the wellness area – one of the largest in Zagreb, which covers as much as 800 m2. This imposing relaxing oasis offers rich facilities such as an indoor heated pool, a children’s pool, a whirlpool, 4 types of saunas, a tepidarium, an ice fountain, a salt room and a floating room. From the wellness offer, it is necessary to highlight the barochamber, which is ideal for a revitalizing experience. There is also a relaxation zone and a wide range of massages. In addition to the hotel’s gastronomic offer, it also includes a national à la carte restaurant and bar.
Opened in 2023 for those seeking ultimate comfort, exquisite wellness and SPA experience, as well as the perfect place for business gatherings. Located in Zagreb’s largest shopping area at the western entrance to the city, well connected to the center of Zagreb. Join us at Grand Hotel Zagreb, where we will make sure you get the experience you are looking for. Come and relax, and let us take care of the rest. Official website link.
art’otel Zagreb
And there is more to come, with one more quality hotel opening due before the end of the year. The central location of art’otel Zagreb, at Petrova 7, is just one of its many enticing features. In addition to In addition to the 110 rooms and 5 apartments, the hotel will also offer other facilities, of which the Gemma wellness & spa area with two saunas, two treatment rooms, a relaxation area and an indoor pool is particularly interesting. Furthermore, 4 meeting spaces have been created that can accommodate up to 18 guests.
From all-day cafés where locals sip on rich hot chocolate and coffee to backstreet studios and galleries where contemporary artists create jaw-dropping works, there’s real charm to Croatia’s capital. If you’re looking for an up-and-coming city to explore, look no further – Zagreb is poised to become one of Europe’s hottest destinations. And that’s why it’s art’otel’s newest home. Whether you choose to sit on the rooftop terrace, sip cocktails in summer, admire the snow-dusted mountain tops, or dive head-first into the area’s famed contemporary arts scene, you’ve found the right base to make your trip truly memorable. We’re always within walking distance or a short tram ride to the best local shops, bars, and galleries. And when you do hit the streets, keep your eyes peeled for a healthy dose of colour among Zagreb’s thriving street art scene. Official website link.
Mövenpick (open in 2022)
There are not so many quality hotels south of the River Sava, but a quality addition arrived in 2022 in the form of the first Mövenpick hotel, part of the Accor group. Located just 10 minutes from the airport and by the Novi Zagreb business district, the hotel boasts a very modern architectural design, inspired by the man himself, Nikola Tesla.
The Movenpick Zagreb is a stylish 4 star hotel in a leafy part of the Croatian capital, conveniently located between the business district and city centre. The Museum of Contemporary Art and Bundek Park are nearby, while Zagreb International Airport is just 10 minutes away, making getting here hassle-free. Each modern bedroom offers the comforts needed for a perfect business or leisure stay, including coffee machines and a selection of luxury toiletries. Enjoy a unique culinary concept in our Mövenpick Zagreb restaurant. Modern international cuisine is combined with regional ingredients and Croatian flavours to create something special. The charming terrace is open on warmer days, ideal for outdoor dining Business guests can book one of our bright, flexible events spaces; our conference hall can host 100 delegates, while the multi-purpose function room is perfect for hosting private parties. Official website link.
