Digital Nomad’s Guide to Zagreb: The Heartbeat of Croatia’s Remote Work Scene

Why Choose Zagreb as a Digital Nomad Base?

Zagreb isn’t just a stopover—it’s a perfect blend of work and play. Here’s why it should be on your digital nomad radar:

✅ Affordable Cost of Living – Rent, food, and coworking spaces are cheaper than in Western Europe.
✅ Reliable & Fast Wi-Fi – Croatia ranks high for internet speed—a must for remote work.
✅ Walkable & Well-Connected – Get around easily by foot, tram, or bike.
✅ Growing Digital Nomad Community – Meet like-minded expats & freelancers at coworking hubs and events.
✅ Great Work-Life Balance – Spend weekends exploring Plitvice Lakes, hiking in Medvednica, or hopping to the coast.

If you want a European capital with a relaxed vibe, low costs, and all the perks of a major city, Zagreb is a fantastic choice.

Where to Live: Best Neighborhoods & Coliving Spaces

Zagreb is compact, safe, and packed with personality. Here are the best areas for digital nomads:

🏡 Best Areas for Remote Workers

• Lower Town (Donji Grad) – The heart of the city, close to coworking spaces, cafés, and nightlife.

• Upper Town (Gornji Grad) – A picturesque, quieter area with cobblestone streets and historic charm.

• Britanski Trg & Medveščak – Close to the city center but more residential and peaceful.

• Maksimir – Green spaces, great for runners & nature lovers, yet well-connected.

🏠 Best Coliving & Long-Stay Options

• Zagreb Nomad Coliving – Tailor-made for remote workers, with a friendly community vibe.

• Swanky Mint Hostel – A trendy hostel with private rooms & coworking-friendly spaces.

• Airbnb & Monthly Rentals – Zagreb has a huge selection of budget-friendly Airbnbs—look for discounts on long stays!

Coworking Spaces & Cafés with Excellent Wi-Fi

Finding the right workspace is key, and Zagreb has plenty of nomad-friendly spots.

💻 Best Coworking Spaces in Zagreb

🔹 Impact Hub Zagreb – A top choice for networking, with regular workshops & community events.
🔹 HUB385 – A modern, spacious coworking hub with fast internet & a tech-savvy crowd.
🔹 BIZkoshnica – A cozy, relaxed space in a central location, great for freelancers.
🔹 Regus – A global coworking brand with premium office setups.

☕ Best Cafés to Work From

• caffe bar 505 – Specialty coffee, solid Wi-Fi, and laptop-friendly seating.

• Eli’s Caffe – A quiet spot for deep work, known for its amazing espresso.

• Cogito Coffee – One of Zagreb’s best coffee roasters—multiple locations, all nomad-friendly.

• Korica Bakery – Great for working while enjoying fresh pastries.

👉 Pro Tip: Many cafés in Zagreb don’t have power outlets—charge up before heading out!

Community & Networking: Finding Your Tribe

Zagreb has a thriving digital nomad scene. Here’s how to connect with fellow remote workers & expats:

🤝 Best Ways to Meet Other Digital Nomads

🔹 Facebook Groups – Join "Digital Nomads Croatia" & "Expats in Zagreb" for local tips & events.
🔹 Coworking Spaces – Attend networking nights, skill-sharing sessions, and meetups.
🔹 Zagreb Tech Scene – Check out startup events at HUB385 for a chance to meet entrepreneurs.
🔹 Nomad Table – A community dining event where remote workers & locals connect over great food.

Beyond Work: Best Things to Do in Zagreb

After a productive work session, Zagreb offers plenty of ways to unwind.

🏛️ Must-See Spots

• Mirogoj Cemetery – Stunning architecture & peaceful surroundings.

• Zrinjevac Park – Perfect for a midday work break in nature.

• Museum of Broken Relationships – A quirky, must-visit museum.

• Dolac Market – Experience authentic local culture at Zagreb’s main market.

🚗 Best Day Trips from Zagreb

• Plitvice Lakes National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, just 2 hours away.

• Samobor – A charming town famous for its custard pastry (kremšnita).

• Sljeme & Medvednica – A hiking paradise, just a tram ride from the city.

• Rijeka & Opatija – Quick weekend escapes to the Adriatic coast.

Local Etiquette & Practical Tips

💡 How to Fit in Like a Local

✅ Greet with a handshake – Croatians are friendly but reserved at first.
✅ Coffee culture is sacred – Don’t rush; enjoy your caffe s mlijekom (coffee with milk).
✅ Tipping isn’t mandatory – But rounding up the bill is appreciated.
✅ English is widely spoken – But learning basic Croatian (Hvala! = Thank you!) goes a long way.

Staying Healthy & Balanced

While Zagreb has amazing pastries and hearty food, keeping active is easy.

🏋️‍♂️ Fitness & Well-Being in Zagreb

• Maksimir Park – A great spot for running & outdoor workouts.

• Yoga in Park Ribnjak – Open-air yoga sessions in summer.

• Gyms & Fitness Centers – Check out OrlandoFit for modern gym facilities.

• Healthy Eats – Try Zrno Bio Bistro for organic, plant-based meals.

Quick Recap: Your Digital Nomad Checklist

✔ Live in Lower Town, Upper Town, or Maksimir—find a coliving space or Airbnb.
✔ Work from Impact Hub, HUB385, or cafés like Cogito Coffee.
✔ Network via Facebook groups, coworking meetups, and Nomad Table events.
✔ Explore Zagreb’s museums, parks, and weekend trips to Plitvice & the Adriatic.
✔ Embrace the local lifestyle—enjoy long coffee breaks & get used to a slower pace of life.

Final Thoughts: Why Zagreb is a Hidden Gem for Digital Nomads

Zagreb isn’t just another stop—it’s a livable, affordable, and inspiring place for remote workers. With great workspaces, a friendly community, and endless things to explore, it’s no wonder more digital nomads are calling Zagreb home.

So, are you ready to experience Zagreb’s magic? Pack your bags, fire up your laptop, and let the adventure begin! ✈️✨

Have you worked remotely from Zagreb? Share your tips in the comments!