Hoteller med Morgenmad i Zagreb County, Kroatien

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.

Located about 15-20 minutes walk from the central bus station or about 5 minutes via taxi. A mix of tram and walking would take you 15-20 minutes. Surrounded by a pizza takeaway, coffee shop, bakery and mini mart. About 20 minutes walk to the main town centre or take the tram just outside the hotel. You can take a taxi which is generally outside. The surrounding area is safe but looks a bit run down because of graffiti. The hotel reception is immaculate. Customer service is really good and you can leave your bag if you check in early (3pm check in). The first floor has a pool (free), limited gym (free) and spa (paid). Restaurant and bar at the ground floor. The room is immaculate but looks a bit dated. King size bed is very comfortable and a bonus. Blankets are comfortable and weighted. Air conditioning is strong but a bit loud. Kettle, free coffee/tea, complimentary waters, iron/ironing board, hair dryer, robes/slippers, and towels available. Shower is strong with two different heads. The shower sprays everywhere on the outside floor due to a poor glass shower curtain. Noise? Rather quiet but can hear noisy people shouting in the corridor. TV is old and dated. Plugs on both sides of the bed (European style). Overall, a decent hotel for the price.

The hote is an excellent location in central Zagreb. The rooms facing the street are really large and quite nice. There is a nice roof-top patio with views of some of the sites of the city. The breakfast was excellent. I appreciate that the staff were polite, responsive, and helpful. I would stay there again.