5-Star Hotels in Zagreb County, Croatia

One Rude Staff Member Ruined an Otherwise Decent Stay I stayed at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel with high expectations given its historic prestige, but one employee’s unprofessional behavior significantly tarnished my experience. Upon arrival, I mistakenly entered the hotel’s parking area as the parking gate opened. After realizing the error, I proceeded to the lobby, completed check-in, and moved my car to the designated drop-off zone for valet service. At this point, a parking attendant aggressively confronted me—hands on hips, speaking in a condescending tone, and demanding how I’d accessed the area. His demeanor was more suited to scolding a trespasser than addressing a paying guest. To be fair, the front desk and concierge staff were perfectly polite and efficient. Had I not encountered this particular employee, my overall impression would have been positive. But for a hotel branding itself as a luxury establishment, even one hostile interaction is unacceptable. A guest’s entire perception can be undone by a single moment of poor service. The incident casts doubt on the hotel’s training standards. Why does such a disparity in staff attitudes exist? I hope management addresses this, as no amount of century-old tradition excuses rudeness. Until then, I’d hesitate to return or recommend Esplanade Zagreb without caution.

The hotel features a clean, tranquil pool, a well-equipped fitness center, and a delectable breakfast. The room was very spacious, and the bed was comfortable.

Fantastic location. Sauna is available to book for free for private use. The best thing was the massage - it was really good. The only issue was the air condition which was changed to heating during the time we visited (summer transitioning to autumn) so it was a little warm at night. Unless you took the garden facing room, the road/ trams noises will be uncomfortable to leave the windows open through the night. Having said, the staff service were good.

We arrived earlier than check-in and got our room right away. We had a deluxe king room, which was beautiful and clean. The hotel is well-located, about a 10-15 minute walk from the city center, so everything is easily accessible on foot. The breakfast was very good with lots of choices. The service at this hotel is excellent. Every evening, I'd request an ice bucket, and it would be delivered to the room within 5 minutes. The staff are kind and polite. I highly recommend this place, you won't regret it! 😀

Very nice hotel with great amenities; a welcome drink, pool, gym, and a spa (extra cost). There was also a rooftop space/bar (didn’t go to see) - the reception staff were very pushy to get people to attend giving a 10% discount for consumption. The room was very nice and clean, a smart TV welcome with the guest name, free water, coffee and tea. There was also a smart panel to control the lights and air conditioning, it did get warm in the room and the temperature didn’t seem to correlate to the ac thermostat. The bed was comfortable however it was a hard mattress, may find it a little difficult to find comfort if used to a softer mattress. The hotel is an art lovers paradise, there were artworks throughout the public spaces and room by the artist Boris Bućan - the hotel offered a guided tour to view all throughout the hotel. Great location and close to many tourist attractions, restaurants and supermarkets.

Excellent hotel, just steps from lines 2 and 6, which take you to the city center in 10 minutes. Comfortable rooms, top-floor pool with spa. Delicious continental breakfast.