Since 2019, I've lived as a digital nomad — working as a freelance writer and video producer from wherever I can find internet.
I've visited more than 65 countries and countless cities, but nothing has felt quite like Zagreb, Croatia. So when Croatia announced it was offering>Finding an apartment rental in Croatia
Tourism is a major industry in Croatia, so there is no shortage of short-term rentals, especially along the country's coast.
There are many ways to find an apartment, from agencies to Facebook groups to>An apartment that checks all the boxes
The main space with the dining area leads right into the living room.Photo: Steve Tsentserensky
The apartment was completely gutted, newly renovated and fully refurnished before I moved in.
The sleek kitchen is stocked with modern appliances, including a "camouflaged" dishwasher next to the oven.Photo: Steve Tsentserensky
The aesthetic is very modern and minimalistic, which suits my style. The beige walls and high ceilings give a sense of spacious airiness, while the wood floors, clean tiles and white cabinetry create an overall sophisticated look.
This is a great spot to lounge and kick back with a book or catch up>The washer and dryer unit in the bathroom is a game-changer.Photo: Steve Tsentserensky
The fourth-floor walk-up has a balcony that overlooks a quiet courtyard, and it's the perfect place to catch some fresh air. The shared rooftop offers sweeping panoramic views of Medvednica, a beautiful mountain just north of Zagreb.
Fresh air is>It's all about location
Croatia's largest city is welcoming and thoroughly walkable, boasting wondrous Austro-Hungarian era architecture and a wealth of cultural landmarks.
A view of Holy Mary Monument, just outside of Zagreb Cathedral.Photo: Steve Tsentserensky
Zagreb has an excellent public transit system, and I'm lucky to have a stop just outside my door. But I still prefer to walk everywhere. Working from home means my commute is from my bedroom to my office, so walking forces me to be active.
I'm about a 15-minute walk from Ban Jelacic Square, the center point of the city that's lined with shops and cafes, as well as the jumping off point to Tkalčićeva Street, Zagreb's main hub for nightlife.
Built in the late 1800's, Glavni Kolodvor is Zagreb's main train station.Photo: Steve Tsentserensky
Zrinjevac Park and King Tomislav Square (both are perfect picnic spots) are a touch closer. My gym is a 10-minute walk away, and the nearest café, grocery store and bakery are all within a stone's throw from my building.
Almost everything I want to do — going to museums, restaurants, bars — is within a 30-minute walk from my apartment.
Rent and additional costs
The average>Home sweet home … for now
After a year in Croatia — and the majority of it spent in Zagreb — I'm hard-pressed to name a city or country I've enjoyed more. This apartment certainly adds to that; finding it felt like hitting the jackpot.
While my lease and digital nomad permit will eventually expire, you'll most likely find me right back here in Zagreb sooner rather than later.
