Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
A historic 5-star hotel in Zagreb, offering timeless elegance, fine dining, and a prime location near the train station.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the bar's magic
Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
Best Time
Experience the bar's magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 5-star hotel in Zagreb, offering timeless elegance, fine dining, and a prime location near the train station.
"Majestic and beautiful 100-year-old building, well-maintained with a great location."
🍽️ Explore Local Breakfast Spots
While hotel breakfast is good, venture out for a more diverse culinary experience.
🍸 Don't Miss the Bar Show
The bartender's skill is a must-see! Grab a seat and enjoy the show.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Grandeur
Step back in time in this majestic, century-old building with stunning interior decorations.

Michelin-Recommended Dining
Savor exquisite meals at the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, a true culinary highlight.

The Cocktail Bar Experience
Witness a masterful bartender craft drinks with flair – a show in itself!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elegance (and Potential Quirks)
Breakfast Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Esplanade hotel in Zagreb, Croatia, in the early 20th century
🍽️ Explore Local Breakfast Spots
While hotel breakfast is good, venture out for a more diverse culinary experience.
🍸 Don't Miss the Bar Show
The bartender's skill is a must-see! Grab a seat and enjoy the show.
📍 Prime Central Location
Perfectly situated near the train station and underground shops/eateries.
🕰️ Embrace the Vintage Charm
Rooms are classic; enjoy the historic ambiance, even if slightly dated.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍽️ Explore Local Breakfast Spots
While hotel breakfast is good, venture out for a more diverse culinary experience.
🍸 Don't Miss the Bar Show
The bartender's skill is a must-see! Grab a seat and enjoy the show.
📍 Prime Central Location
Perfectly situated near the train station and underground shops/eateries.
🕰️ Embrace the Vintage Charm
Rooms are classic; enjoy the historic ambiance, even if slightly dated.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests praise the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel for its majestic, historic ambiance and prime central location. The cocktail bar and Michelin-recommended restaurant are standout features, though some find the rooms and certain amenities a bit dated. Service is generally polite, but breakfast reviews are mixed.
"This was a nice hotel for our stay in Zagreb in June 2025. The hotel is a bit dated but we enjoyed the room that was allocated to us. It was comfortable and well appointed. The main reason I gave this 4 star is because the breakfast was just ok. On this particular trip, the breakfast was probably the least enjoyable. My recommendation would be to stay here when in Zagreb but grab breakfast elsewhere."
Patrick Tran
"This hotel is majestic and beautiful. 100 year old building that’s well maintained but does have some issues (noisy a/c, no usb chargers, some leaks in the hallway ..)
The breakfast was great but the concierge was pretty much MIA. Great location.
Most impressive part was our room - we had a large living room with great furniture, nice view"
Shirin Eghtesadi
"A nice old-style high end hotel, in a central location. Particularly good breakfast and a Michelin recommended restaurant. Definitely the food and cocktails were memorable. The room felt dated: hairdryer must have been as old as the hotel, no complementary water, no electric curtains. Price was too high for what it actually compared to other 5 star hotels worldwide. Staff was polite."
Lucy S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by taxi or ride-sharing service, which takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the airport shuttle bus to the main bus station and then a short taxi ride or walk to the hotel.
Yes, the hotel boasts a prime location right next to the main Zagreb train station, making it incredibly convenient for travelers arriving by rail.
Absolutely! The hotel is centrally located, and most major city center attractions are within easy walking distance, typically 10-20 minutes.
The Esplanade Zagreb Hotel offers private parking for guests, though it may incur an additional fee. It's advisable to inquire about availability and rates when booking.
Yes, the hotel is well-served by public transport. Trams and buses stop frequently near the main train station, providing easy access to all parts of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred room and dates.
Standard check-in time is usually from 2:00 PM onwards, and check-out is typically by 12:00 PM. It's always best to confirm these times directly with the hotel.
While the hotel is high-end, the dress code for its restaurants is generally smart casual. The Michelin-recommended restaurant might have slightly stricter guidelines, so it's wise to check their specific policy.
The hotel occasionally offers packages that might include dining credits, spa access, or seasonal promotions. Check their official website or contact them directly for current offers.
No, there is no entrance fee to enter the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel. Guests and visitors are welcome to explore the public areas and amenities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Rooms are well-appointed and comfortable, featuring classic furnishings. Amenities typically include air conditioning, a private bathroom, TV, and Wi-Fi. Some guests note a lack of modern features like USB chargers.
Yes, the hotel is air-conditioned, though some reviews mention the A/C can be noisy.
Yes, the hotel features a health club, offering guests facilities to stay active during their stay.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the hotel, allowing guests to stay connected.
Staff are generally polite and professional. However, some guests have noted that the concierge can sometimes be less attentive.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel offers several dining venues, including a Michelin-recommended restaurant, a chic cocktail bar, and a restaurant on the side of the building known for delicious and affordable food.
Breakfast receives mixed reviews. While some find it great, others describe it as just 'okay' and suggest exploring local cafes for a better experience.
Absolutely! The cocktail bar is a highlight, with a bartender known for putting on an impressive show while crafting drinks.
Yes, there are food options available underground less than a 3-minute walk from the hotel, and one of the hotel's own restaurants is noted for being 'cheap as fuck' with delicious food.
While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, high-end hotels like the Esplanade typically offer room service. It's best to confirm directly with the hotel.
📸 📸 Photography
The hotel's grand lobby, ornate staircases, and classic room interiors offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The exterior architecture is also quite striking.
Generally, yes, you can take photos in the public areas like the bar and restaurants, especially during off-peak hours. Be mindful of other guests and ask permission if photographing staff.
While casual photography is usually permitted, professional photoshoots might require prior arrangement and permission from the hotel management.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting in the lobby and common areas. Evenings are great for capturing the ambiance of the bar.
Both smartphones with good low-light capabilities and dedicated cameras work well. Capturing the vintage details might benefit from a lens that can handle intricate textures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider dining at the more casual restaurant on the side of the building for family-friendly meals. The hotel's proximity to the train station also makes it a convenient base for families traveling by rail. Be aware that some amenities might be older, so managing expectations regarding modern conveniences is key for a smooth family stay.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant every night, consider enjoying breakfast elsewhere and focusing on the more budget-friendly hotel dining options or exploring the numerous eateries near the train station. The hotel's prime location also means you can save on transportation by walking to many city sights.
🥂 Couples Seeking Romance
Indulge in a memorable dinner at the Michelin-recommended restaurant for a special occasion. The hotel's central location also makes it easy to explore Zagreb's charming streets hand-in-hand, discovering hidden cafes and scenic spots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Century of Grandeur: The Esplanade's History
Today, the hotel meticulously maintains its historic charm while incorporating modern comforts. Guests often remark on feeling like they've stepped back in time, appreciating the original decorative elements and the sense of grandeur that permeates the building. This commitment to preserving its heritage is a key part of the Esplanade's unique appeal.
Culinary Delights: Dining at the Esplanade
The cocktail bar is another must-visit. Reviews highlight the exceptional skill of the bartenders, who create a captivating show while mixing drinks. It's an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy expertly crafted beverages in a stylish setting. While the hotel's breakfast is generally good, some guests suggest exploring local bakeries and cafes for a different taste of Zagreb.
Navigating the Hotel: Tips for a Smooth Stay
While the hotel's classic style is a draw, some visitors note that certain amenities, like hairdryers or the air conditioning, might feel a bit dated. The hotel provides Wi-Fi, and while staff are generally polite, the concierge service might occasionally be less readily available. Planning your meals, whether enjoying the hotel's offerings or exploring nearby options, can enhance your experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit