Where to Stay in Croatia: Complete Hvar, Split, and Zagreb Accommodations Guide

Heading on a trip exploring the best of Croatia and not sure where to stay in Hvar, Split, and Zagreb? Whether you’re relaxing on Hvar, exploring Split’s ancient sights, or soaking up the culture in Zagreb, we’ve got you covered. Rather than covering every possible area to stay, this guide focuses on the best neighborhoods for sightseeing to narrow your search. These stays are all in great central locations, so you’re close to the action, yet tucked on quiet side streets for a peaceful escape after a day of sightseeing. Forget reading a million reviews to find the right place—these options all have the best combination of comfort and convenience. Ready to find the perfect spot for your trip? Read on for our picks for where to stay in Hvar, Split, and Zagreb!

Also visiting Dubrovnik? Be sure to explore our guide on the best places to stay in Dubrovnik to beat the crowds!

Where to Stay in Hvar

Staying in or close to Hvar Old Town is the best way to experience the island’s charm and beauty, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere. These picks are close to all the main attractions—cafes, shops, restaurants, and the stunning harbor—yet tucked away on quiet side streets for a peaceful retreat away from the nightlife. Everything is just a short walk away, making it the perfect base to enjoy all that Hvar has to offer. We stayed just outside the Old Town and it was the perfect balance of being close to the harbor and main attractions while providing a quieter environment for a restful night’s sleep

Villa Nora

To stay right in the middle of the old town of Hvar, look for a room at Villa Nora. The rooms are rustic but it’s a good value for being in the center of town. And the hospitality of the hosts can’t be beat!

Hvar Top View Apartment

Staying slightly outside Hvar Old Town can be more affordable and also give you more choice. The Hvar Top View Apartment is about a 10-15 minute walk outside of the old town, and has beautiful sea views from the balcony.

Those apartments already booked? Check out more highly rated stays in Hvar near the old town.

Where to Stay in Split

The very cool thing about the Old Town of Split is that a large part of it was once part of Diocletian’s Palace. The center of the Old Town has basically developed within the old palace walls. Staying inside the Old Town is atmospheric, but can be loud at night because of the clubs. Staying a little outside the center of the Old Town is a good compromise. That is the area we stayed and it was only a couple minutes walk away from the Old Town, but it was quieter at night and still very convenient for exploring.

Elixir Luxury Rooms

The Elixir luxury rooms have a couple suites along an elegant entrance hallway. The bathrooms are nicely renovated and though the rooms are cozy, they are beautifully decorated. The location is fantastic. We stayed in a larger rental just down the street and found it very convenient for exploring the Old Town, but it was also quiet enough at night to be able to rest.

The Box

If an apartment with a kitchen would be more convenient, check if The Box is available. This one bedroom apartment is cozy but cleverly designed to maximize the space and recently renovated. The location is great for exploring the Old Town, just a couple minutes walk from the center.

Central Park Residence

To get a taste of palace life, stay at the Central Park Residence. The Central Park Residence is located in the corner of the former palace compound. The exposed brick detailing adds to the charm. You can almost imagine that you are a guest at the former palace. The rest of the apartment is renovated and modern though, and includes a kitchenette.

If those stays are all booked up, check out these other highly rated stays in the Split old town.

Where to Stay in Zagreb

Staying near Jelacic Square is the best choice when visiting Zagreb. It’s super convenient for exploring – you’re just steps away from tons of cafes, restaurants, and shops, and all the main sights are within easy walking distance. Although the square itself is bustling with activity, you can find great apartments just a block away that give you the best of both worlds – the convenience of being near the action, but with a quieter place to relax at the end of the day.

Main Square Dream Apartment

To stay right in the heart of the action, book the Main Square Dream Apartment. This 2 bedroom apartment is perfect for a group. It’s big draw is the location; it is steps away from Jelacic Square. You can watch the hustle and bustle of the square below from the balcony. Note that since it is on the main square, it is best for those that enjoy the lively atmosphere. The bathroom is modern and nicely renovated, like the rest of the apartment.

Apartment Nikola 4*

The Apartment Nikola 4* is about a block away from Jelacic Square, so it has the same convenience with the benefit of being a little quieter. The apartment is located in a historic building, but has been renovated to be clean and modern.

Those apartments already booked up? Check out more highly rated stays near Jelacic Square.

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