From historic castles to serene lakes, Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, definitely has a lot in store. It shouldn't be surprising that the capital city of the country, its ultimate seat of power, is also one of its diverse. Diverse in the sense that not all neighborhoods look like. Not all districts offer the same things. And there's always a new experience in every area you go to. Whether you're visiting as a tourist or you're moving here as a new resident, it's important to understand some of the best neighborhoods in the city. Here are some you should take note of!
Britanski Trg
Translated into English as the 'British Square,' Britanski Trg is one of the central public squares in Zagreb. Cafés, bistros, and restaurants with terraces surround the wide-open area, with shops, boutiques, and apartment buildings just a stone's throw away. Those who prefer to listen to the music of the Zagreb lifestyle would want to settle down here, living at the apex of a city living with a charming old-world European appeal. And on Sundays, Britanski Trg plays host to a fair full of food stalls, fun games, and the like!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Suradnik13
Donji Grad
In many ways, Zagreb's Donji Grad has become one of the central areas in the city. Surrounding its main square are residential avenues full of old-school European apartment buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and a collection of coffee shops that can rival even
those in Paris! In fact, if you're truly into Europe's café society, you'll love staying here for a while. Practically every corner you turn, there's at least one or two café where you can relax and unwind.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Jorge Lascar
Gornji Grad
Located in the Upper Town part of Zagreb, Gornji Grad is a walk down memory lane. Mansions, manors, and homes all preserved from the pre-socialist and pre-World War eras of the country make up most of this nostalgia-inducing district. Hence why it's also largely referred to as the most romantic part of the Croatian capital. A perfect place for newlyweds to settle down and start their new life together amidst a bustling metropolis. Just don't let the general silence here spook you!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Suradnik13
Jarun
Jarun is actually a man-made lake that's become one of the most popular spots in the city. And because of this, over the years, it's become its own must-visit district. Although the lake may seem serene and relaxing at first, the entire district is full of energy. The lake and the lakeside areas are often the locations for sports events, music festivals, and the like. And surrounding the body of water are nightlife hotspots that will keep you having fun all night long!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Kaptol
Even if it may not seem like it, Croatia is actually a religious country. And here in Zagreb, the country's capital, the seat of ecclesiastical power is in the Kaptol district. It probably goes without saying that centuries-old cathedrals, old churches, and similar places of worship dominate this part of the city. Hence, it's also a tourist haven in Zagreb. Notably, since it's a rather conservative area, you'd do well in following
Croatia's social customs while interacting with the locals here.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Robert Majetic
Lenuci Horseshoe
In a way, the Lenuci Horseshoe district in Zagreb is somewhat of an oxymoron. Translated into English, the neighborhood's name is literally 'Green Horseshoe' and despite how comical that may sound, it couldn't be more appropriate. But how is this place an oxymoron? The area is dominated by both parks and cultural attractions, making it a combination of a botanical bliss and an urban tourist haven all in one. Those who want to go to museums and galleries will have to pass/drive/go through large nature parks to get to the next one!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Maksimir
Another place known for its park is Maksimir. A forest of oak trees, quiet lakes, and small nature trials make up this patch of botanical bliss in the heart of the city. But unlike Jarun, this area is a lot more peaceful Hence, those who want to live a more suburban-like lifestyle in the Croatian capital would love staying or even living here. They can get in one with nature whilst enjoying all the day-to-day conveniences of living in a bi city.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Rostyslav Malenko
Novi Zagreb
If you're tired of the same old pre-war apartment buildings that make up most of Zagreb and you want a more contemporary place to settle down in, go to Novi Zagreb. This neighborhood is known for its communal blocks, offering modern homes to those who want to live in the present. In fact, this entire district is all about modern-day city living, with museums, gyms, shopping malls, and leisure centers all a walk away from the homes here. Not bad, right?
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Plamen
Strossmayerovo šetalište
Known for its mile-long promenade that stretched from the Upper Town to the Lower Town, Strossmayerovo šetalište is one of the most beautiful parts of Zagreb. As you walk on this famous path, you'll see countless beautiful homes, relaxing cafés, quirky boutiques, must-see theaters, fascinating art galleries, street performers, and the like. In many ways, this neighborhood shows the heart of the city, both its old-world charms and its modern-day appeals. It's no wonder it's becoming more and more popular among new residents nowadays.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Miroslav Vajdic
Tkalčićeva
Tkalčićeva is yet another neighborhood in Zagreb that will take you back in time. Its charming vintage homes, cobblestone streets, and lamp-lit pathway harken back to the days of yore. Romantic periods that you'd probably associate fairytales and romantic novels with. And the vibe is sort of the same! As you explore this district, you'll realize that it's made up of a close-knit community of locals. They're people, families, and businesses that have been in Zagreb for decades or even centuries.
Source: Flickr.com/ Jorge Franganillo
Never underestimate the charm of Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia. Once you explore the many districts here, you'll find that this bustling metropolis has many sides to it, ranging from its nostalgic charm to the modern-day energy it inspires!
No matter which Zagreb neighborhood you choose to settle down in, you'll still find a
luxury home there for you!
