Top 5 student cities in Croatia

Discover the favourite cities for university students in Croatia and what makes them unique.

If you’re starting to look for the top 5 student cities in Croatia, this article will help you compare options and understand what each destination can offer you according to your lifestyle, expectations and budget. The country has become increasingly popular among international students for several reasons, including its safe environment, leisure opportunities and a more affordable cost of living than in much of Western Europe.

Throughout the article, you’ll find practical information about each city: the pros and cons of studying there, the most prominent universities, and reference prices for student accommodation. In addition, remember that through our online student accommodation platform, you can quickly and safely find verified options, so you can arrive in Croatia with everything planned.

Zagreb

Zagreb, the capital, is the largest university city in Croatia and the preferred destination for those seeking an active student experience, with cultural life, good connections to the rest of the country and a lively international atmosphere. It’s also the largest city in Croatia, but it’s still very easy to get around and has areas full of cafés, museums and green spaces.

Pros and cons of studying in Zagreb

Studying in Zagreb can be a great experience because of its advantages, although it also involves some challenges.

Pros of studying in Zagreb

It has an international atmosphere where many people speak English.
It offers the most varied leisure and entertainment options in the country.
From Zagreb, it’s very easy to travel to other Croatian and European cities.
It has affordable prices compared to other European capitals.

Cons of studying in Zagreb

As it’s located inland rather than on the coast, winters can be colder than in other parts of the country.
The demand for accommodation is usually very high, especially just before the start of term.
Some areas of the city may feel unsafe at night, such as the streets around stations.

Top Universities in Zagreb

In the capital, you’ll find some of the most prestigious institutions in the country.

Sveučilište u Zagrebu (University of Zagreb)

The University of Zagreb is the oldest, best known and most prestigious institution in the country. It’s also the largest, with faculties in virtually all areas, spread across different campuses and buildings throughout the city.

See the complete guide to accommodation near the University of Zagreb for more information.

Student housing in Zagreb

Rent prices for students in Zagreb are generally reasonable compared to other European capitals. As a reference, the cost of a room in a shared flat is usually between €250-500 per month, depending on its location and characteristics. However, the average is usually around €300-400.

Are you looking for accommodation in the capital of Croatia? Read our guide to student housing in Zagreb, with the best neighbourhoods and approximate prices.

Split

Split is one of the best-known cities on the Croatian coast and an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy its beaches while studying. It has a relaxed pace, typical of coastal cities, but also offers a lively social life, cultural activities and history.

Pros and cons of studying in Split

Split offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.

Pros of studying in Split

It’s a coastal city with beaches and a pleasant climate throughout the year.
The student community has been growing, with Croatian and foreign students.
Croatian islands such as Hvar, Brac and Solta are easily accessible.
It has an interesting cultural and historical offering, with a beautiful old town and buildings such as Diocletian's Palace.

Cons of studying in Split

Prices rise as the tourist season approaches.
The availability of student accommodation is more limited than in the capital.
There isn’t as much academic provision as in Zagreb.

Top Universities in Split

One institution in particular stands out in Split.

Sveučilište u Splitu (University of Split)

The University of Split is the city's main academic centre, with faculties in areas such as engineering, social sciences, humanities, medicine and economics. Its main campus is in the Kampus area, and it also has other buildings scattered throughout different parts of the city.

If you’re going to study there, don't miss our guide to housing close to the University of Split.

Student housing in Split

The reality is that rental prices in Split vary greatly due to tourism, but in the low season they tend to be slightly cheaper than in Zagreb. Students often choose rooms in shared flats, which also tend to cost between €250 and €450 per month.

If you’d like to check out all the available options, read our guide to student accommodation in Split.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal city with a rich history and a student atmosphere that grows year after year, although it’s less well known than Split. Because of this, it offers better value for money, as costs do not vary as much depending on tourism. It also has a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle, with a good academic standard, good connections to other cities and sunsets famous for their beauty.

Pros and cons of studying in Zadar

Choosing Zadar to study brings with it great advantages, although certain disadvantages may affect the experience.

Pros of studying in Zadar

The cost of living is generally lower than in Zagreb or Split.
Mediterranean atmosphere with many outdoor activities.
Close-knit and fun student community.
A safe and easy city to get around.

Cons of studying in Zadar

Fewer cultural events and nightlife outside of peak season.
More limited academic offerings compared to larger cities.
Demand for accommodation may increase in tourist areas.

Top Universities in Zadar

Zadar is home to one institution that stands out in particular.

Sveuciliste u Zadru (University of Zadar)

The University of Zadar is the city's main higher education institution, offering programmes in humanities, languages, social sciences, geography, education and tourism. Its New Campus (Novi Kampus) houses most of its faculties, although it also has buildings in different parts of the city.

Student housing in Zadar

Rent for students in Zadar is generally cheaper than in other Croatian coastal cities. A room in a shared flat costs between €200-250 per month, with higher prices closer to the city centre or the coast, and depending on the tourist season.

Are you planning to study in Croatia? Don't miss our guide to student housing in Zadar, with up-to-date neighbourhoods and prices.

Osijek

Osijek, located in the Slavonia region, is a quiet university town that stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and very affordable cost of living. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a more relaxed academic experience, away from mass tourism and with a very active student community.

Pros and cons of studying in Osijek

The academic experience in Osijek has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.

Pros of studying in Osijek

Lower cost of living and accommodation than in other Croatian cities.
Relaxed pace of life.
A safe city with good cycling mobility.
A close-knit student community and easy integration for foreigners.

Cons of studying in Osijek

Cultural and leisure options are quite limited compared to larger cities.
Trips to other Croatian cities take longer, as they’re located far from Zagreb and the coastal area.
Winter is usually quite cold, as it’s in the centre of the country.

Top Universities in Osijek

Osijek is home to a nationally recognised institution.

Sveučilište Josipa Jurja Strossmayera u Osijeku (University of Osijek)

The Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek is one of the largest and oldest universities in Croatia. Its buildings and campuses are spread across different parts of the city, in neighbourhoods such as Donji Grad and Tvrđa.

Find the best areas to live in our article on housing close to the University of Osijek.

Student housing in Osijek

As it doesn’t attract as many tourists, Osijek is one of the most affordable cities in the country for students to live in. For example, the average cost of a room in a flat shared with other students is usually around €120, although it can range from €80 to €300 per month.

If you’re going to study in this Croatian city, check out our guide to student accommodation in Osijek, with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik’s one of the most iconic cities on the Adriatic, known for its walled old town and enormous tourist appeal. Although it isn’t a university city in the traditional sense, it’s attracting more and more international students seeking a unique historical setting and a year-round Mediterranean climate. It’s worth noting that its appearance in the series "Game of Thrones" greatly increased its popularity.

Pros and cons of studying in Dubrovnik

Studying in Dubrovnik can be very rewarding, although you’ll also encounter some more complicated aspects.

Pros of studying in Dubrovnik

It boasts an incredible historical setting that’s very well preserved.
The climate is Mediterranean, allowing for outdoor living for much of the year.
It has a dynamic and growing international community.
Its location is ideal for travelling to other beautiful areas of the country such as Zadar, Pula or Hvar.

Cons of studying in Dubrovnik

The costs are usually quite high, especially when it comes to accommodation.
It has a large influx of tourists, so the centre is often crowded with visitors.
The academic offering is more limited than in larger cities, especially courses taught in English.

Top Universities in Dubrovnik

Among the higher education institutions in this city, we’d like to highlight one in particular.

Sveučilište u Dubrovniku (University of Dubrovnik)

The University of Dubrovnik is the city's leading institution, offering programmes in tourism, communication, economics, maritime engineering and social sciences.

It has a campus in the Pile-Kono area and buildings in other parts of the city.

Student housing in Dubrovnik

Accommodation in Dubrovnik is among the most expensive in the country due to high tourist demand. Generally, a room in a shared flat costs between €300 and €600 per month, in some cases excluding utility costs. It’s advisable to search well in advance to avoid fluctuations during the peak tourist season.

Find accommodation in Croatia with Erasmus Play

Choosing between the top 5 student cities in Croatia depends on what you’re looking for in your academic and personal life. Zagreb offers the widest range of universities, Split and Zadar offer the appeal of the coast, Osijek stands out for its accessibility and tranquillity, while Dubrovnik offers a unique historical setting, albeit with higher costs.

Once you’ve chosen your ideal city, remember that on Erasmus Play you can search for and book verified accommodation quickly and securely. That way, you can arrive in Croatia with everything sorted and focus on enjoying your university experience from day one. And remember to start your search as early as possible!

Other guides on studying and living in Croatia

In the following guides, you’ll find more information about the destinations mentioned in this article.