Editor's note: Arcotel Allegra is closed with no immediate plans to reopen.
Owned by an Austrian chain, this was Zagreb's first designer hotel when it opened in 2003. The marble-clad lobby, with an aquarium and colourful fish, gives access to Joe's Bar and the Mediterranean-themed Radicchio restaurant. The 151 uncluttered rooms come with good soundproofing, pine furniture, funky fabrics with portraits of celebrities (Kahlo, Picasso and Kafka) and DVD players. Look out for the world map, with a red dot marking Zagreb, on the blue carpets in hallways and rooms. The top floor has a sauna and gym, and rooftop views. Ask about weekend rates. It's convenient for the city centre, the train station and the bus station – and therefore the airport.