Is it good to get lodgings right on Jelacic Square in Zagreb, or better to be a 5-10 minute walk away in terms of noise and crowds? We like some activity but when the guidebook mentioned it's like the Time Square of Zagreb i had second thoughts!
Zagreb center is not huge. We have walked many times from the train station of Jelacic Square, which takes maybe 15 minutes. So I would not worry overmuch about where I was staying. While events on the square were noisy at times (like during Slovenian Days when 100 kids with their accordions were playing folk tunes), we never felt overwhelmed.
It’s certainly lively, but not exactly crazy. I stayed at Hotel Jagerhorn nearby and would recommend it. Zagreb is super walkable, so anywhere near Jelecic is good. Avoid staying in the Upper Town which is atop the hill.
Another thumbs up for Hotel Jagerhorn. We are there right now. It’s quiet. Service is friendly and helpful. Breakfast is just right. A remodel is apparently in the planning stage. You might check before booking.
I checked into both hotels and either there is no availability or the cost is too high (we're a family of 5 adults so that means 3 rooms for both nights in Zagreb). I'm looking at a couple of apartments with three bedrooms, one being right at Jelacic Square and the other a 10 minute walk to Jelacic Square. The impression I'm getting from the comments is that being at or very near Jelacic Square is a benefit, so maybe I'll go that direction. Thank you for your help!
It's not Times Square but it's the largest square in Zagreb. On Friday and Saturday nights it's crowded but not crazy. Lots of families and other people out and about. Super safe and not seedy at all. I wouldn't hesitate to stay there.
What you should look into the sobe choices. Sobe is Airbnb of Croatia, a system which existed for many years before Airbnb. Use booking.com to find apartments.