Tucked away among the Balkans, along the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia combines the best of the Mediterranean dream. Clear waters lap at the shores of unspoiled islands, ancient ruins reveal a rich cultural legacy, and mountain ranges adorn the landscape. As its capital city, Zagreb is full of cultural riches to discover, as our Zagreb City Guide will show. It’s the perfect place from which to visit Plitvice Lakes, Istria, and even Ljubljana! Here are the best options for getting to and from Zagreb Airport.
Where is Zagreb Airport?
Zagreb International Airport, officially named Franjo Tudman Airport, is Croatia’s largest airport. This is also the base for Croatia Airlines so you’ll find many domestic flights connecting here – perfect if you’re looking to explore Croatia beyond its eclectic capital. Although commonly known as “Zagreb Airport”, it’s located on the city’s outskirts in Velika Gorica, 15 km outside of Zagreb. But don’t worry: there are plenty of ways to get to and from Zagreb Airport in 30 minutes or less! From the public bus system to private airport transfers, read on to determine which is most convenient for you!
Franjo Tudman Airport by Bus
The Zagreb Electric Tram (ZET) is Zagreb’s public transportation company, operating an extensive bus system through Croatia’s capital and its surrounding counties. The 290 Line connects the busy Kvaternik Square in Zagreb’s city center with Velika Gorica and Zagreb Airport. Departures are scheduled every 35 minutes and a one-way ticket costs 10 HRK.
Franjo Tudman Airport by Shuttle
Another great budget option is to hop on the airport shuttle bus. It takes you directly from the airport to Zagreb’s central bus station in no less than 30 minutes. Departures are scheduled around incoming and outgoing flights and a one-way ticket will cost you a mere 30 HRK.
Franjo Tudman Airport by Taxi
If you’ve just landed at Zagreb Airport, head to the Passenger Terminal and you’ll easily find Zagreb’s airport taxi stand. Simply follow the signs for “Taxi” and you surely won’t miss it! From here, a quick drive to downtown Zagreb will run you approximately 200 HRK and take under 30 minutes. Ubers also operate from the airport and offer a transfer service with flat fees depending on the type of service you request and where you’re heading.
Franjo Tudman Airport by Car
If you’re planning to do some exploring of your own around Croatia, it might be worth your time to look into car rental options at the airport. Here, you’ll find plenty of rental services available, from international favorites to local companies.
Franjo Tudman Airport by Private Transfer
If comfort and convenience are your top priorities, you’ll find private transfers your best option for getting to and from Zagreb Airport. With competitive prices, they might end up costing you the same as a taxi fare, but the personalized service adds a little something extra to your journey. While you’ll have to book this service in advance, it’s worth the planning! A driver will pick you up straight from the Zagreb Airport arrivals area, assist you with your bags, and take you to your exact destination. Prices are generally fixed when you book to avoid surprises, and drivers usually speak English. This is truly the ultimate option for getting to and from Zagreb Airport!
The Best Way to Travel to Zagreb
Of course, getting from the airport to Zagreb is just the first step of your journey. Stay in the city in style with one of the hotels listed in our guide to Where to stay in Zagreb. Whilst in the city, a guided tour is a great way to see the highlights and get access to off-the-beaten-path experiences. Alternately, go for a tour package that combines experiences in Zagreb with other can’t-miss highlights of Croatia. The 7 Day Secrets of Zagreb & Istrian Coast Tour Package, for example, includes tours of Zagreb, the Plitvice Lakes National Park, and Istrian gems Pula, Rovinj & Porec. These packages make it so arriving from the airport is the last thing you’ll have to plan, and you can sit back, relax, and enjoy Zagreb and beyond.
