Zagreb is divided into seventeen administrative districts, each with its own character, atmosphere, and role within the city. With a population of around 770,000 people, the city combines historic neighbourhoods, residential areas, and modern urban zones.
In this guide, you will find a clear overview of each district to help you understand how the city is structured and what different areas offer for everyday life.
Lower Town
Lower Town is the central part of Zagreb and one of the city’s main administrative and cultural areas. It sits between Upper Town and the modern districts and forms the most urban and organised part of the city.
It is home to many institutions, museums, shops, cafés, and universities. In addition, it is very walkable and well connected by public transport, which makes it one of the most convenient areas for students and everyday city life.
Upper Town
Upper Town is the historical core of Zagreb and one of its oldest parts. It is located on a hill above Lower Town and is known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and landmarks.
In addition, it is home to key cultural and political sites, including museums, churches, and government institutions. As a result, it attracts many visitors, especially those interested in history and culture.
Trnje
Trnje is a central district of Zagreb located close to Lower Town. It is mainly a residential and business area, with a mix of apartment buildings, offices, and public institutions.
In addition, its location makes it very practical, since it is well connected to the city centre by tram and bus lines. Therefore, it is a popular choice for both students and professionals.
Maksimir
Maksimir is a residential district in the eastern part of Zagreb, best known for Maksimir Park and the city zoo. It offers a balance between urban living and large green spaces.
In addition, the district has good public transport connections, which make it easy to reach the city centre and universities. As a result, it is popular among students and families who want access to nature within the city.
Peščenica – Žitnjak
Peščenica – Žitnjak is a large district in the eastern part of Zagreb. It combines residential areas with industrial and business zones.
Because of this mix, the district has a more practical, everyday character rather than a tourist or student-focused atmosphere. You will mainly find apartment blocks, warehouses, and commercial spaces.
However, the area is well connected by public transport. Therefore, you can still reach the city centre and universities without difficulty.
Novi Zagreb – East
Novi Zagreb – East is a large residential district located south of the Sava River. It is part of the newer section of the city, developed mainly in the second half of the 20th century.
The area consists mostly of apartment blocks, schools, parks, and local facilities. As a result, it has a more residential and practical character compared to the city centre.
In addition, Novi Zagreb – East is well connected by bridges and public transport, so you can easily reach other parts of the city, including the centre and universities.
Novi Zagreb – West
Novi Zagreb – West is a large residential district located south of the Sava River, opposite Novi Zagreb – East. It is part of the newer urban development of the city.
The area mainly consists of apartment buildings, green spaces, schools, and local amenities. Therefore, it has a quiet and residential character compared to the city centre.
Trešnjevka – North
Trešnjevka – North is a densely populated residential district located west of the city centre. It is one of the most active and well-developed neighbourhoods in Zagreb.
The area offers a mix of apartment buildings, local shops, cafés, and everyday services. Therefore, it has a lively but still residential character, popular with both locals and students.
In addition, Trešnjevka – North is very well connected by public transport, so you can reach the city centre quickly and easily.
Trešnjevka – South
Trešnjevka – South is a large and densely populated district in the western part of Zagreb. It mainly consists of residential buildings, local shops, and everyday services, which gives it a very practical and lived-in character.
In addition, the district is well connected by tram and bus lines, so getting to the city centre and universities is simple and quick. As a result, it is a popular choice for students and young professionals looking for more affordable housing.
Črnomerec
Črnomerec is a residential district in the western part of Zagreb. It combines older neighbourhoods with newer apartment buildings, so the area has a mixed and evolving character.
In addition, it is well connected to the city centre by tram and bus, which makes daily commuting quite simple. For this reason, many students and young professionals choose to live here.
Gornja Dubrava
Gornja Dubrava is a residential district in the eastern part of Zagreb. It is mostly made up of apartment buildings, family houses, and local neighbourhood facilities, which gives it a calm, everyday atmosphere.
In addition, the district is well connected by bus and tram lines, so it is relatively easy to reach the city centre and other parts of Zagreb. However, travel times are generally longer compared to central districts.
Donja Dubrava
Donja Dubrava is a residential district in the eastern part of Zagreb. It is mainly made up of apartment buildings and family homes, which gives it a quiet and local neighbourhood feel.
In addition, the district is connected to other parts of the city by bus and tram lines, so commuting to the centre is still possible, although it can take more time.
Stenjevec
Stenjevec is a residential district in the western part of Zagreb. It is mostly made up of apartment buildings and family houses, which creates a calm and suburban atmosphere.
In addition, the district is well connected to the city centre by tram and bus lines, so commuting is relatively easy. However, travel times can vary depending on the exact location within the district.
Podsused – Vrapče
Podsused – Vrapče is a residential district in the western part of Zagreb. It combines older neighbourhoods with newer housing areas, which gives it a mixed and slightly suburban character.
In addition, the district is connected to the city centre by bus and train lines, so commuting is possible, although it may take longer than in central areas. Therefore, it is more suitable for those who prefer a quieter environment.
Podsljeme
Podsljeme is a residential district located in the northern part of Zagreb, at the foothills of Mount Medvednica. It is known for its green surroundings, spacious homes, and more suburban atmosphere.
In addition, the area is less densely populated compared to central districts, so it offers a quieter and more nature-oriented lifestyle. However, this also means that public transport connections are less frequent.
Sesvete
Sesvete is the largest district in Zagreb and is located in the eastern part of the city. It functions as a separate urban centre with its own residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
In addition, it is well connected to the rest of Zagreb by train and bus, which makes commuting to the city centre possible, although travel times are longer. As a result, it is often chosen by people who work locally or prefer more affordable housing.
Brezovica
Brezovica is a residential and semi-rural district in the southern part of Zagreb. It is known for its quieter environment, more open spaces, and a mix of family houses and smaller neighbourhoods.
In addition, it is less densely urbanised than central districts, so it offers a slower pace of life. However, this also means that public transport connections are less frequent and travel to the city centre can take longer.
Final note
Each district in Zagreb offers something different, from central and well-connected areas to quieter residential neighbourhoods. Because of this variety, you can easily find an area that fits your lifestyle, budget, and study location.
Overall, Zagreb is a well-connected and accessible city, so moving between districts and exploring different parts of the city is simple and convenient.