Zagreb Apartments with Pools: The Ultimate Guide 2026

Your Complete Guide to Swimming in Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia's vibrant inland capital, might not have a coastline, but it doesn't lack opportunities for a refreshing swim. During the hot summer months, from June to September, when temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), finding a place to cool off is essential. This guide covers everything from the rare apartments with private pools to the city's fantastic public swimming complexes and natural lake beaches.

Finding Apartments with Private Pools in Zagreb

Finding a standard apartment with a private pool in Zagreb's city center is challenging. Unlike coastal destinations, high-density urban living means private pools are a luxury reserved for specific types of properties.

Are private pool apartments common in Zagreb?

No, standalone apartments with private pools are not common in central Zagreb. The building stock consists mainly of historic and socialist-era apartment blocks where such amenities were not standard. However, your best options are:

• Aparthotels and Serviced Apartments: These modern establishments are your most reliable choice. They often feature shared pools (rooftop or indoor) for guests, combining hotel-like amenities with the space of an apartment.
• Villas and Houses on the Outskirts: If you're willing to stay further from the center, in neighborhoods like Šestine or Gračani on the slopes of Medvednica mountain, you can find luxury villas and houses for rent that feature private pools. These properties offer more space and privacy but require a car or reliance on taxis and public transport.
• Luxury Penthouses: A small number of high-end penthouse apartments in newer buildings may have private rooftop plunge pools or jacuzzis.

Top-Rated Apartments & Aparthotels with Pools

While we don't list specific, ever-changing rental units, the table above provides a realistic overview of what you can expect to find when searching on major booking platforms. Look for aparthotels or serviced apartments located just outside the immediate pedestrian zone for the best combination of access and amenities. Expect to pay a premium of 30-50% compared to similar-sized units without pool access.

Public Swimming Pools in Zagreb: The Best Alternatives

For most visitors and locals, Zagreb's public sports and recreation centers (Športsko-rekreacijski centar or ŠRC) are the go-to spots for swimming. They are affordable, well-maintained, and offer a fantastic experience.

ŠRC Šalata: The Iconic Outdoor Pool

Located on a hill just a 15-minute walk from the main square, Šalata is Zagreb's most iconic swimming spot. It's a summer-only facility beloved for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning city views.

• Pools: Features a large 50x25 meter Olympic-sized outdoor pool and a smaller children's pool.
• Season: Typically open from early June to early September.
• Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM (check official sources for exact times).
• Price: A daily adult ticket costs approximately €6-€8. Cheaper tickets are often available after 4:00 PM.
• Facilities: Sun loungers (for a fee), cafes, changing rooms, and lockers. The complex also includes tennis courts and a fitness center.
• Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to secure a good spot and avoid the largest crowds, which gather in the afternoon and on weekends.

Bazeni Mladost: Year-Round Swimming

Situated next to the Sava River, the Mladost sports park is one of Zagreb's largest and most versatile swimming complexes, offering both indoor and outdoor options.

• Pools: Includes an Olympic-sized (50m) indoor pool, a 25m indoor pool, and several outdoor pools open in the summer, including another 50m pool and a children's area with a slide.
• Season: Indoor pools are open year-round. Outdoor pools operate from June to September.
• Opening Hours: Varies by pool, but generally open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays for the indoor pools.
• Price: A daily adult ticket is around €5-€7.
• Facilities: Extensive facilities including a gym, sauna, volleyball courts, and cafes. It's a hub for professional and recreational athletes.
• Getting There: Accessible via trams 5 and 17 (stop: Mladost).

Bazeni Svetice: The Modern Olympic Complex

Opened in 2016, the Svetice pool complex is the city's most modern aquatic facility. It's located near Maksimir Park, making it perfect for a combined day trip.

• Pools: Features a state-of-the-art 50m Olympic indoor pool, a 25m warm-up pool, and a small pool for children and non-swimmers.
• Season: Open year-round.
• Opening Hours: Generally 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekdays, with slightly reduced hours on weekends.
• Price: Daily adult tickets are approximately €6-€8.
• Facilities: Modern changing rooms, a large gym, wellness area with saunas and a steam room, and a cafe.
• Insider Tip: After your swim, take a 10-minute walk to explore Maksimir Park, one of Europe's oldest public parks, and visit the Zagreb Zoo located within it.

Swimming in Nature: Lakes Near Zagreb

Zagreb is blessed with two large, man-made lakes that transform into bustling beaches during the summer. They offer a completely different swimming experience, surrounded by nature and recreational activities.

Jarun Lake

Often called the "Zagreb Sea," Jarun is a massive recreational lake in the southwestern part of the city. It's a hub of activity for locals.

• Swimming: The lake has several designated pebble beaches, and the water quality is regularly tested throughout the summer, often earning it a Blue Flag certification for cleanliness and safety.
• Activities: Besides swimming, Jarun is popular for rowing, kayaking, sailing, cycling (there's a 6 km paved loop around the lake), rollerblading, beach volleyball, and simply relaxing at one of the dozens of cafes and bars that line its shores.
• Price: Free to enter for pedestrians and cyclists. A small fee is charged for cars.
• Getting There: Trams 5 and 17 go directly to Jarun.

Bundek Lake

Located in Novi Zagreb (New Zagreb), Bundek is a smaller, more park-like alternative to Jarun. It's particularly popular with families.

• Swimming: The larger of its two lakes has a well-maintained pebble beach with lifeguards on duty during the summer season. The water is clean and safe for swimming.
• Activities: The surrounding park has extensive lawns, beautiful flower gardens, playgrounds, barbecue spots, and a paved path for walking and cycling.
• Price: Free entry.
• Getting There: Accessible by several bus lines from the main railway station or by a 20-minute walk across the Liberty Bridge (Most Slobode).

Cost of Swimming in Zagreb (Estimated Prices for 2026)

| Item | Average Cost (EUR) | |--------------------------------------|--------------------| | Daily Pass at Public Pool (Adult) | €6 - €8 | | Daily Pass at Public Pool (Child) | €3 - €5 | | Sun Lounger Rental (Šalata) | €4 - €5 | | Apartment w/ Pool (per night) | €130 - €250+ | | Coffee at a Lakeside Cafe (Jarun) | €2 - €3 | | Tram/Bus Ticket (30 min) | €0.53 |

Insider Tips for Swimmers in Zagreb

1. Check Schedules Online: Public pools often have specific lanes reserved for swimming clubs or training. Always check the public swimming schedule (`raspored za građanstvo`) on the official websites before you go. 2. Pack for the Lakes: When visiting Jarun or Bundek, bring water shoes, as the pebble beaches can be tough on bare feet. Also, pack sunscreen and a hat, as shade can be limited on the beaches themselves. 3. Use Public Transport: Zagreb's public transport network (ZET) is efficient and affordable. Trams and buses can get you to all major pools and lakes easily. Use the ZET app for real-time schedules. 4. Look for Evening Discounts: Many public pools, like Šalata, offer reduced ticket prices for entry late in the afternoon (e.g., after 4:00 PM), which is perfect for a shorter, refreshing dip after a day of sightseeing. 5. Combine Activities: Plan your day around your swim. A visit to the Svetice pool can be paired with Maksimir Park and the Zoo. A swim at Šalata is just a short walk from the historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad).