Lower Town, known locally as Donji Grad, is Zagreb’s bustling downtown district. It is flat, elegant, and showcases grand Austro-Hungarian architecture. Staying in Lower Town means being at the heart of Zagreb’s action, with countless attractions and amenities within easy reach. If you plan to explore beyond the city, renting a car can make your travels more convenient. In this guide, we’ll explore the top reasons why Lower Town is among the best places to stay in Zagreb.
Lower Town’s central location and rich character make it an great choice for visitors. Let’s dive into the things to do in Lower Town and the benefits you can enjoy by basing yourself in this district.
Lower Town is an unbeatable central location in Zagreb. It is quite the city centre, placing you within walking distance of almost all major attractions. The neighbourhood centres around Ban Jelačić Square, the city’s main plaza and social hub, surrounded by cafés, shops, and meeting spots. From here, you can explore Lower Town and the historic Upper Town easily on foot. The layout is pedestrian-friendly thanks to its flat terrain and practical grid system, unlike the hilly Upper Town. The central railway station (Glavni Kolodvor) is at the southern edge of Lower Town. And if you plan to explore beyond the capital, it’s easy to rent a car in Zagreb from the agencies based here.
One of the greatest perks of staying in Lower Town is having Zagreb’s cultural treasures right on your doorstep. There are so many things to do in Lower Town because it’s surrounded by museums, galleries, theatres, and historic landmarks. Donji Grad is pedestrian-friendly, with cultural institutions and cosy cafés at every corner. Many of Croatia’s top museums are located here. History lovers can dive into the Archaeological Museum’s ancient artefacts, including the Zagreb Mummy. Art enthusiasts can admire collections at the Mimara Museum or the Museum of Arts and Crafts.
The Croatian National Theatre, an iconic yellow Neo-Baroque landmark, also sits in Lower Town, providing world-class opera, ballet, and drama performances for an elegant night out. Quirkier spots such as the Museum of Illusions and the Museum of Broken Relationships are also within easy reach. The neighbourhood also hosts frequent open-air concerts, festivals, and seasonal events, particularly in the warmer months when streets and squares buzz with life. By staying in Lower Town, you enjoy a front-row seat to Zagreb’s cultural scene, with museums, performances, and vibrant street life.
The busy city centre of Zagreb is also home to lush parks and green spaces, especially throughout Lower Town. The district features a U-shaped system of connected parks known as Lenuci’s “Green Horseshoe.” It is a chain of eight elegant parks and squares that wrap gracefully around the area. These green pockets offer a refreshing escape right in the middle of the city.
Stroll at Zrinjevac Park, the oldest and most atmospheric of them all, known for its shady walkways, charming music pavilion, and ornamental fountains. A short walk brings you to Strossmayer Square and Tomislav Square, where the grand Art Pavilion forms a striking backdrop. The Botanical Garden, with its ponds and more than 5,000 plant species, adds a serene, almost magical touch to the landscape.
Staying in Lower Town means you can enjoy a quiet morning jog, an afternoon picnic, or a leisurely evening walk. The green spaces are beautifully maintained. In summer, you’ll spot people relaxing on benches or playing chess under Zrinjevac’s trees, while spring fills the Horseshoe with bright, blooming flowers. Many of these parks also host occasional events, from small markets to live music.
If you love historic European charm, attractions in Lower Town will not disappoint. Wandering through its streets feels like stepping into an open-air museum of 19th-century design. During Zagreb’s rapid expansion in the late 1800s, Lower Town was built with deliberate grandeur: elegant palaces, ornate façades, and cultural institutions meant to showcase the city’s growing importance.
As a result, the area is dominated by Austro-Hungarian architecture, often compared to the imperial elegance of Vienna. Rows of Neo-Classical and Art Nouveau (Secession) buildings line the streets, many featuring decorative columns, sculpted balconies, and impressive arched windows. The wide, orderly avenues reflect the carefully planned layout of this historic district. Simply strolling around, you’ll encounter gems such as the Croatian National Theatre, the former Austro-Hungarian railway station, and countless other buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Lower Town’s charm lies not only in its grand landmarks but also in its subtle details and ambience. Many heritage buildings now house offices, galleries, or apartments, yet they retain their old-world elegance. Even the everyday streets feel nostalgic, with vintage lamps, ornate doorframes, and graceful façades. Hidden passages add to the romance. The Oktogon is a beautiful historical arcade crowned with a stained-glass cupola connecting two bustling streets. As daylight fades, the architectural silhouettes of Lower Town glow under warm evening lights.
Zagreb is renowned for its café culture, and nowhere is this more evident than in Lower Town. From early morning to late evening, locals settle into outdoor terraces to sip strong Croatian coffee. You’ll find countless cafés lining the squares and pedestrian streets. People-watching is a genuine pleasure here, especially around Ban Jelačić Square and the surrounding lanes, where street musicians often add to the ambience.
Staying in Lower Town means you can step outside your hotel and immediately join this relaxed daily ritual. Enjoy a morning espresso in the sun or unwind at dusk with a glass of Croatian wine on a lively terrace. Beyond cafés, you can shop and dine in Lower Town. The main commercial street, Ilica, runs along its edge and is one of the longest in the city, packed with boutiques, bookstores, bakeries, and well-known international brands.
For fresh produce or local treats, the Dolac Market is just a short walk uphill. It’s ideal for sampling cheeses, fruit, or traditional baked goods. Dining options are plentiful: you can try Croatian favourites such as štrukli or schnitzel in bistros, or opt for international cuisine in one of the area’s many cosmopolitan eateries. In the evenings, bars and terraces around Flower Square (Petar Preradović Square) and Bogovićeva Street are filled with a friendly, low-key nightlife crowd.
Lower Town caters to all types of travellers thanks to its wide range of accommodation options and convenient amenities. Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a couple on a city break, or a family looking for comfort, you’ll find a place that suits your needs. The district is home to boutique hotels set in elegant historic buildings, reliable mid-range options, and even a few luxury hotels that exude 1920s charm near the main railway station. Budget-conscious visitors can choose from hostels, guesthouses, and short-term apartment rentals.
Most places offer modern essentials like air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and comfortable rooms, even in older buildings. Another perk is overall safety. The streets are well-lit and lively. There are also ATMs, banks, and exchange offices throughout the area, as well as pharmacies, supermarkets, and convenience stores. The main Tourist Information Centre is on Ban Jelačić Square, offering maps, guidance, and booking assistance. Many locals live and work here, so services like laundromats, gyms, and salons are easy to access, ideal for longer stays.
Lower Town is one of the best places to stay in Zagreb, as everything you need is conveniently located right there. It’s easy to walk around, with numerous cafés, shops, parks, and museums nearby. The area features beautiful historic buildings and countless places to eat and relax. Whether you're seeking culture, convenience, or simply a pleasant place to wander, Lower Town makes your trip comfortable and enjoyable.
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