Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is fast becoming a favorite destination for digital nomads, combining a warm, welcoming community and a rich cultural scene, with affordable living. Whether you're looking for modern coworking spaces, remote work-friendly cafes, or public places with Wi-Fi access, Zagreb has it all.
With an easy-going lifestyle, plenty to explore, and modern amenities, this guide covers the most important information you need to have a pleasant experience in this city - from accommodation for rent in Zagreb to the best shopping centers and local markets.
- Why Zagreb?
- Best time to visit
- Visas
- Accommodation
- Cost of living
- Itineraries
- Coworking spaces
- Public places for remote work
- Must-try dishes
- Transportation
- Essential services
- Top activities
- Networking opportunities
- Best neighborhoods
- Shopping and market guide
- Money-saving hacks
- Pros and cons of living in Zagreb
- Basic phrases in Croatian
- Other useful information
Why Zagreb?
Zagreb is not just a historic European city - it’s a multifaceted destination bringing together the old-world charm of Europe with a modern edge. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Medvednica Mountain and the Sava River, Zagreb is the gateway to both the Adriatic Sea and Central Europe. This unique position has shaped Zagreb’s identity as a crossroads of history, culture, and innovation, creating a city that feels both distinctly cosmopolitan and traditionally Croatian.
Best time to visit Zagreb
Find perfect apartments for rent in Zagreb
Zagreb experiences all four seasons, which makes it possible to enjoy various activities throughout the year. Here’s a look at what each season offers:
Spring (April to June)
Spring in Zagreb is magical, when the city awakens from the cold of winter. The parks and gardens blossom and the weather becomes warm and pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. This time of year is ideal for exploring Zagreb’s iconic green spaces such as Maksimir Park and visiting open-air festivals such as the popular Floraart flower exhibition.
As it is not peak tourist season, prices remain moderate and you can experience a pleasant mix of local life and scenic beauty.
Summer (July to September)
Summer brings a lively atmosphere to the city, with warm temperatures about 28°C to 35°C. During this time, Zagreb comes alive with music festivals, cultural events, and outdoor exhibitions. Zagreb’s many sidewalk cafes are ideal people-watching spots, and the area around Lake Jarun offers an excellent escape with its beaches, water sports, and nightlife.
Although summer draws more tourists, particularly on the Croatian coast, Zagreb remains relatively quiet and offers a respite from the crowds that flock to the Adriatic coast.
Autumn (October to November)
Autumn is one of the best times to visit Zagreb. The air becomes crisp, the leaves display beautiful colors, and temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C. At this time of year, the city is quieter and you can explore Zagreb’s galleries, museums, and cafés without the summer crowds.
Plus, fall markets like the Dolac Market fill up with seasonal produce and create an inviting atmosphere for foodies.
Winter (December to March)
Winter in Zagreb is cold, with average temperatures between -2°C and 8°C, but it gives the city a special vibe. The highlight of winter is the Advent Festival, when Zagreb is transformed into a Christmas wonderland with ice rinks, festive markets, and Christmas lights. The Zagreb Advent has gained an international reputation and is one of the best in Europe. Winter is also a good time for budget-conscious travelers, as prices for accommodation are usually lower.
Visas in Croatia
Croatia is considered one of the friendliest destinations in Europe for digital nomads, with a forward-thinking visa policy, which is designed specifically for remote workers.
Digital nomad visa overview
The Croatian digital nomad visa allows non-EU/EEA citizens who are freelancers or self-employed to live in the country for up to one year, subject to a six-month waiting period before reapplying.
Applicants must prove that they have a stable monthly income of about €2,300 and provide the necessary documents, including a passport, proof of income, proof of purpose, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
Applications can be submitted online via the Ministry of the Interior or in person at a Croatian consulate or embassy. Once the application has been accepted, the applicant needs to register their residence within three days of arrival. Processing typically takes one month and may take longer if additional documents are required.
Accommodation
Finding the right rental accommodation is one of the most crucial aspects of planning an extended stay in the city. Here’s an overview of the types of housing in Zagreb available, current rental costs, and popular neighborhoods.
Types of accommodation
- Short-term rentals: Short-term rentals in Zagreb are suitable for those who want to stay for a few months. Apartments and studios are widely available and come in different price ranges, depending on amenities and location.
- Long-term rentals: For those who intend to stay a year or more, long-term accommodations offer stability and better rates. You can find both unfurnished and furnished apartments, and longer leases usually come with lower monthly rates.
- Coliving spaces: Coliving is an emerging trend in Croatia, including in Zagreb. Coliving spaces offer shared spaces with like-minded people, typically featuring common spaces, kitchens, and event areas.
Neighborhoods and rent estimates
- Upper Town (Gornji Grad): Famous for its historical vibe and proximity to cultural landmarks, Upper Town is pricier thanks to its central location. Here, you can expect to pay between €800 and €1,200 a month for a one-bedroom apartment.
- Lower Town (Donji Grad): This neighborhood is a great choice for those who want to be close to shops, cafes, and public transport. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment here ranges from €600 to €1,000 a month.
- Jarun: A little further from the city center, Jarun is very popular among expatriates for its outdoor activities and lakeside amenities. Rent here is more affordable, with one-bedroom apartments costing between €450 and €700 a month.
- Maksimir: Known for being close to Maksimir Park, this area is ideal for nature lovers and offers affordable options, with rental prices for one-bedroom apartments ranging from €400 to €650 a month.
Rent by apartment type
- Studio apartments: €400 to €600 a month, depending on location.
- One-bedroom apartments: €450 to €1,000 a month.
- Two-bedroom apartments: €700 to €1,500 a month.
When renting, don’t forget that utilities are usually extra—except if you rent via platforms with a deposit-free policy such as Flatio - and can add about €100-€150 a month, depending on the season and usage.
Flatio: Flexible, deposit-free stays in Zagreb
Are you looking for flexible, reasonably priced, and deposit-free accommodation to rent in Zagreb? Take a look at the listings on Flatio and we believe you will find a suitable living space in the city center and beyond.
Source: Photo by Tomislav Dodig on Unsplash
Cost of living
The cost of living in Zagreb is relatively affordable when compared to other capitals in Europe, which makes it an appealing choice for nomads. Below is a breakdown of the average monthly expenses you might expect:
Monthly expenses overview
- Rent: €450-€1,200 depending on the location and type of the apartment.
- Utilities: €100-€150 for heating, electricity, cooling, water, and garbage disposal.
- Groceries: Expect to spend about €200-€300 a month on groceries, which include dairy products, fresh produce, pantry staples, and meat. Local markets are cheaper, particularly for vegetables and fresh fruits.
- Dining out: A meal at a budget-friendly restaurant costs around €5-€10, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant may cost about €20. Bakeries and street food options and bakeries offer budget-friendly options.
- Public transport: A monthly transit pass is €50 and offers unlimited access to trams and buses across the city. Ride-sharing apps are widely used, and taxis are affordable.
Sample monthly budget (for a single person)
| Expense | Cost |
| Accommodation | €600 |
| Utilities | €120 |
| Groceries | €250 |
| Dining out | €100 |
| Public transport | €50 |
| Coworking membership | €150 |
Itineraries
Zagreb offers a fantastic range of places to visit and experiences, so whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or art enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of some ideas to maximize your stay:
Weekend getaway
If you only have a weekend, we suggest you focus on Zagreb’s must-see spots:
- Day 1: Start with the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and St. Mark’s Square to explore the city’s iconic architecture. Wrap up the day with a walk at sunset along Strossmayer Promenade.
- Day 2: Visit Dolac Market to enjoy local flavors, then discover Lower Town (Donji Grad) with a stop at Zrinjevac Park and Ban Jelačić Square. Spend the evening around Tkalčićeva Street for some of Zagreb’s best bars and cafés.
One-week exploration
You can spend a week exploring Zagreb more intensively and even take a few day trips:
- Days 1-3: Follow the weekend itinerary but add visits to Zagreb Zoo and Maksimir Park for a quiet day in nature. Another day, go to Jarun Lake for swimming, paddle boarding, or a jog around the lake.
- Days 4-5: Take a day trip to Samobor, a beautiful town 20 kilometers away famous for its cream cakes (kremšnita) and wonderful landscapes. Alternatively, you can go to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its hiking trails and cascading lakes.
- Days 6-7: Spend your last days getting to know Zagreb’s art scene with visits to Croatian Museum of Naive Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Conclude your stay with a brunch and walk through British Square (Britanski trg) on Sunday.
Source: Photo by Kristina Kutleša on Unsplash
Coworking spaces in Zagreb
Zagreb has a fast-growing coworking scene that accommodates different work styles. These are some top options:
- Hub385: A large, lively coworking hub that’s very popular with freelancers and startups, famous for its creative vibe, well-designed workspaces, and networking events.
- Wespa Spaces: A modern coworking space with a relaxed yet professional atmosphere, offering plenty of amenities such as high-speed internet, private offices, ergonomic seating, and even a gym.
- BIZkoshnica: Located in the center of Zagreb, BIZkoshnica is a great choice for nomads and freelancers, featuring meeting rooms, cozy workstations, and a community-focused ambiance.
- Impact Hub Zagreb: Part of the global Impact Hub network, this space is ideal for sustainability-focused businesses and social entrepreneurs, offering workshops and collaboration opportunities.
- SPACES Matrix Office Park: A contemporary, sleek space on the city’s outskirts, suitable for those who want a peaceful, high-end work environment with amenities and conveniences such as breakout areas, private offices, and meeting rooms.
- Canopy by Hilton: While technically a hotel, this space offers a designated coworking area and features high-speed Wi-Fi, modern interiors, and a café, which makes it a convenient spot for nomads.
- Regus Zagreb City Center: Famous for its business-focused vibe, Regus offers flexible office solutions and is very popular with freelancers and remote corporate teams who want a quiet, polished workspace.
Public places for remote work
Zagreb hosts public spaces where you can work remotely, combining productivity with the lively atmosphere of the city.
Here are some recommendations:
- Zrinjevac Park: This park, which is located in the heart of the city, has many shaded areas and benches and is close to nearby cafés where you can take a break. It’s particularly pleasant in spring and fall.
- Maksimir Park: A great choice for nature lovers, Maksimir Park has quieter areas and picnic tables to work in a serene environment.
- Café Libraries: Certain libraries, such as Bogdan Ogrizović Library, have adjacent cafés where you can work in a focused, quiet atmosphere with Wi-Fi.
- Museums and Cultural Centers: Some museums have public lounges, like the Museum of Contemporary Art, where you can work in a creative environment.
Must-try dishes in Zagreb
Croatian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Central European influences, with Zagreb offering some unique dishes.
- Štrukli: A traditional dish of dough that’s filled with cottage cheese, either boiled or baked, typically served with cream. This savory and rich dish is a Zagreb specialty.
- Zagrebački Odrezak: Known as “Zagreb Schnitzel,” it’s a breaded and fried veal cutlet that’s filled with cheese and ham—filling and delicious!
- Ajngemahtec: A classic Croatian chicken soup, which is usually served with vegetables and homemade noodles, perfect for a cold day.
- Poppy seed and walnut rolls: Traditional pastries that are filled with walnuts or poppy seeds. They’re ideal for a snack or breakfast.
- Kremšnita: A famous Croatian dessert, particularly popular in Samobor. It’s a custard cream cake, which is both light and indulgent.
Transportation in Zagreb
It’s quite easy to get around Zagreb thanks to the various transportation options available:
Public transport
- Trams and buses: The tram system is extensive and covers most parts of Zagreb. Trams run frequently, particularly on main routes, and a single ticket costs about €0.53 for a 30-minute ride.
- Monthly passes: If you commute frequently, monthly passes are available for €50 and provide unlimited access to buses and trams.
- Bicycle rentals: Zagreb is very bike-friendly, with several rental stations around the city. Cycling is an eco-friendly and affordable way to explore.
Taxis and ride-sharing
- Taxis are widely and readily available throughout the city. Prices are generally affordable, but ride-sharing apps are often preferred because of the convenience they offer. Rides within central Zagreb usually cost between €3 and €8.
Essential services
For a seamless stay, it’s good to know where to find essential services, such as:
- Healthcare facilities: Zagreb has a wide range of public and private healthcare facilities. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in public hospitals. For others, it’s best to choose a health insurance plan that covers Croatia.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies, known as “ljekarna,” are available across the city, typically open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. There are some 24-hour locations available as well.
- Banking and currency exchange: ATMs are widely available, and most places accept credit cards. Currency exchange offices (known as “mjenjačnica”) offer competitive rates, particularly near Ban Jelačić Square.
Top activities in Zagreb
Zagreb is packed with experiences and activities that reflect its rich cultural landscape. These are some experiences that you should not miss:
- Museum exploration: Discover Zagreb’s art scene with museums such as the Museum of Naive Art, Technical Museum Nikola Tesla, and Mimara Museum.
- Outdoor adventures: Take a day trip to Medvednica Mountain for hiking or, in winter, skiing or enjoy an afternoon at Bundek Lake.
- Festivals and events: From the Zagreb Film Festival to the Advent Festival, the city hosts many events that are festive, fun, and full of local flavor.
Networking opportunities
Zagreb’s community of entrepreneurs and nomads is growing, with many ways to connect:
- Meetups and events: Platforms host meetups for digital nomads regularly, expats, and entrepreneurs, covering subjects from arts to tech.
- Workshops and conferences: Zagreb hosts a large number of conferences, like the Weekend Media Festival and Infobip Shift, which are great for networking.
- Cafés and bars: Socializing is a big part of the city’s culture, and many connections are made over a glass of wine or coffee. Popular nomad-friendly spots include Britanski trg and Tkalčićeva Street.
Source: Photo by Caz Hayek on Unsplash
Best neighborhoods in Zagreb
Zagreb has several neighborhoods that are suitable for different lifestyles:
- Gornji Grad: Ideal for those who want a historical setting with easy, quick access to cultural landmarks.
- Donji Grad: Perfect for nomads who want to be close to Zagreb’s best shopping, dining, and coworking spots.
- Jarun: A favorite for those who love outdoor activities, with lower rental prices and lakeside views.
- Maksimir: Offers a more relaxed suburban vibe with parks, suitable for nature lovers and families.
Shopping and market guide
Zagreb’s shopping scene is a combination of of traditional markets and modern stores:
- Dolac Market: Known as Zagreb’s “belly,” this is the place to purchase fresh produce, meat, cheese, and local specialties.
- British Square Market: A smaller market with a local feel, ideal for weekend browsing.
- Shopping centers: For international brands, you can visit Avenue Mall or Arena Centar.
Money-saving hacks
- Shop at local markets: Dolac Market offers fresh products at better prices than the supermarkets.
- Public transport passes: Use monthly passes that offer unlimited rides if you plan to commute regularly.
- Lunch specials: Many restaurants around the city offer daily specials, which are called “gableci,” at lower prices.
Pros and cons of living in Zagreb
Pros:
- Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe.
- Growing digital nomad community.
- Excellent public transportation.
Cons:
- Winter can be dreary and cold.
- Limited English speakers in certain areas.
Basic phrases in Croatian
- Hello - Bok
- Please - Molim
- Thank you - Hvala
- Yes - Da
- No - Ne
- How much does it cost? - Koliko košta?
Other useful information
- Power Outlets: Croatia uses the Europlug, with 230V and 50Hz.
- Emergency numbers: For medical emergencies, dial 112.
- SIM cards: Many affordable prepaid options with good data plans are available.
Flatio: Rental accommodation in Croatia
Why choose Flatio for your rentals in Croatia? Discover the unique features that make us the perfect choice:
- Flexible, reasonably priced, remote work-friendly stays (from days to months)
- Wide range of accommodation options (rooms, apartments, houses, etc.)
- Utilities and Wi-Fi included
- Visa-friendly lease agreements
- Online signing of lease agreement
- Renting directly from hosts
- No deposit required for stays under 180 days (unless required by local laws)
- Balanced lease agreement, translated into multiple languages
- Very attractive cancelation policy
- StayProtection for Tenants: assistance with emergencies and accidental property damage
- Move-in Guarantee with a 24/7 emergency line
- 100% money protection
- Support team available every day of the week
- No hidden fees
- Secure and simple payment system, including Bitcoin option
Source: Photo by hadar elia on Unsplash
