Hotel Central does exactly what its name promises. It stands on Kneza Branimira directly opposite Zagreb’s main railway station, with King Tomislav Square and its park, the first of the Lower Town’s green squares, a few steps away, and a tram stop on the doorstep. For travellers on a budget, or anyone arriving by train or planning several day trips, it is hard to beat for convenience. This is a straightforward, well-kept three-star hotel rather than a design statement: the air-conditioned rooms are simple and comfortable, with private bathrooms, a desk, a television and a small refrigerator, and the hotel has a bar and lounge, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and a lift. Breakfast is a free buffet, which makes the rates even better value, and Wi-Fi is free throughout. There is a small casino area with slot machines, and pets are accepted for a daily fee. The Esplanade’s park is next door, Ban Jelačić Square is about fifteen minutes on foot through the Lenuci Horseshoe, or a few stops by tram, and the Zrinjevac meeting point for the Plitvice and Ljubljana day tours is within an easy ten-minute walk. It is ideal for an early start.
Location and getting around: the hotel is at Kneza Branimira 3, opposite the main railway station and about a hundred metres from King Tomislav Square. Trams to Ban Jelačić Square leave from the stop about fifty metres away, and walking through the parks to the centre takes about fifteen minutes. The main bus station, with buses to the coast and the airport, is a short tram ride east.
Rooms: rooms are compact and practical, all with air conditioning and private bathrooms. Ask for a room away from the street side if you are a light sleeper, as the station square is busy early and late.
Who it suits: budget travellers, rail and bus travellers, solo visitors and anyone planning early-morning day tours to Plitvice or Slovenia. It suits people who will be out exploring all day.
Good to know: parking is limited and charged daily, so reserve ahead if you are driving. Pets are allowed for a daily fee. During Advent, from 28 November 2026 to 7 January 2027, the park squares from King Tomislav to Zrinjevac host stalls and lights within a few minutes’ walk.
Why stay here
- ✓Free buffet breakfast
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓Bar and lounge
- ✓24-hour front desk
- ✓Luggage storage
- ✓Paid parking with limited spaces
- ✓Pets allowed for a fee
Good questions
Is breakfast included at Hotel Central Zagreb?+
Yes, a buffet breakfast is included free of charge. Wi-Fi is free too.
How close is Hotel Central to Zagreb main station?+
It is directly opposite the main railway station. A tram stop is about fifty metres away.
Does Hotel Central have parking?+
Yes, but spaces are limited and charged daily. Reserve ahead if you are arriving by car.
