The Brooklyn
of Zagreb is
Martićeva.

The case for Martićeva

Martićeva (Design District) is the coolest neighborhood in Zagreb for 48-hour cold-ferment cruffins, natural wine at Program Bar, and concept design shops.

Martićeva street runs about six walkable blocks east of the main square, connecting over 20 design studios, concept shops, and wine bars in what Zagreb has started calling its Design District. Korica is a Martićeva bakery whose sourdough, almond croissants and cruffins come out of a 48-hour cold ferment, and Program Bar handles the evening shift with natural wine and a crowd that skews toward architects and illustrators. The energy is unhurried, almost residential, with ground-floor studios spilling their work onto the sidewalk. Zagreb's creative scene is still emerging on most people's radar, and Martićeva is the street that will put it there.

Built between 1958 and 1962, the 10-storey Vitić Skyscraper anchors Martićeva with its Mondrian-inspired coloured-panel facade, the most-photographed architectural icon in Zagreb's Design District.
Close contenders

Other cool neighborhoods in Zagreb.

Britanski trg

Britanski trg is where Zagreb's antique dealers and old-money intellectuals converge around a weekend flea market. Great for vintage finds and strong espresso.

Tkalčićeva

Tkalčićeva is the postcard street. Wall-to-wall cafes in a former creek bed. Touristy, sure, but grab a table at dusk and it earns it.

Trešnjevka

Trešnjevka is the real working-class Zagreb. The big green market is the city's best, and the neighborhood bars don't bother with menus.

See the full shortlist, ranked →
Three sides of the neighborhood

Where to go in Martićeva.

All 23 spots mapped out

Martićeva, corner to corner.

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Our 23 top picks

The Martićeva guide.

Practical info

Good to know.

The boring numbers that decide whether you stay three days or four.

CurrencyEUR
LanguageCroatian
Cost level $$Moderate
Best monthsMay, June, and September
Local time UTC+2
Plug type EU plug · 230V/50Hz
Emergency112
Local tip
The courtyard at Martićeva 14 hides three of the best spots on one address. Walk through the arch.
Europe · Croatia

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Head to head

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Common questions

Things to know about Martićeva.

What is the Brooklyn of Zagreb?
The Brooklyn of Zagreb is Martićeva (Design District). Martićeva street runs about six walkable blocks east of the main square, connecting over 20 design studios, concept shops, and wine bars in what Zagreb has started calling its Design District. Built between 1958 and 1962, the 10-storey Vitić Skyscraper anchors Martićeva with its Mondrian-inspired coloured-panel facade, the most-photographed architectural icon in Zagreb's Design District.
What is the coolest neighborhood in Zagreb?
Martićeva (Design District) is widely considered the coolest neighborhood in Zagreb. Martićeva street runs about six walkable blocks east of the main square, connecting over 20 design studios, concept shops, and wine bars in what Zagreb has started calling its Design District. Korica is a Martićeva bakery whose sourdough, almond croissants and cruffins come out of a 48-hour cold ferment, and Program Bar handles the evening shift with natural wine and a crowd that skews toward architects and illustrators. The energy is unhurried, almost residential, with ground-floor studios spilling their work onto the sidewalk. Zagreb's creative scene is still emerging on most people's radar, and Martićeva is the street that will put it there.
Where should I stay in Martićeva (Design District), Zagreb?
The best boutique hotels in Martićeva (Design District) include Casablanca Boutique B&B, Stellar Boutique Modules by Maistra City Vibes, and Le Premier Boutique Hotel Zagreb. Casablanca Boutique B&B is the one to book first. Art Nouveau townhouse with theatrical interiors and a gregarious host who pours rakija at breakfast. Feels less like a B&B and more like staying with a stylish Croatian aunt.
Is Martićeva (Design District) in Zagreb safe at night?
Yes. Zagreb has very low violent crime, and this district is residential with steady foot traffic into the evening. Streets are well-lit and trams run until around midnight. Standard caution applies for pickpocketing in the main square and on packed trams, but the design district itself feels calm even late at night.
Is Zagreb expensive?
Zagreb sits in the mid range for a capital. A Bolt or taxi from the airport runs 25 to 35 euros, and restaurant tipping is a modest 10% for good service, not obligatory. If you want to save, February hotel rates often fall 30 to 40% below summer peaks.
When is the best time to visit Zagreb?
May, June, and September hit the sweet spot, with 20-25°C, long days, and every terrace in use. July and August can climb to 35°C, and plenty of locals clear out for the coast, so some smaller shops shut for a couple of weeks. If you'd rather have the cold version, late November into December brings the Advent stalls, outdoor food, and mulled wine.

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