Maksimir Stadium Guide Zagreb Croatia

Maksimir Stadium, Zagreb, Croatia

Maksimir Stadium, Zagreb.
The multi-purpose Maksimir Stadium with the east stand (right) closed

Maksimir Stadium (Stadion Maksimir) is the home ground of one of Croatia's top clubs, Dinamo Zagreb.

The 25,000 capacity stadium in the capital Zagreb first opened way back in 1912 and stages the majority of the Croatian national team's home international matches. It is the largest and most historic sports venue in the country.

History

The stadium is part of the Svetice recreational and sports complex, to the south of Maksimir Park. The first stadium underwent re-construction from the 1940's - 60's. It was again updated for the Universiade Games (World Student Sport Games) between 1986 and 1987 and again in 2011. The 2020 earthquake damaged the ground, epecially the east stand which remains closed as of 2024.

In 1990 the stadium was the scene of a literal 'pitch' battle between visiting Red Star Belgrade fans and home Dinamo supporters. It was a harbinger of the bitter civil war to follow soon after. It was the day Zvonimir Boban became a legend for a kick without a ball.

East Stand, Maksimir Stadium.
East Stand, Maksimir Stadium

Access - Getting There

Maksimirska 128, 10000 Zagreb
Croatia
Tel: +385 1 232 32 34

The stadium is located in the north eastern part of Croatia's capital Zagreb about 3.5 km from the city center and across the street from Zagreb's Zoo. 

Zagreb, does not lay claim to being Croatia's most beautiful city, Dubrovnik and Split would be higher on most people's lists. However the city's 19th century architecture has a stately charm and Zagreb is certainly Croatia's most lively, cosmopolitan and entertaining town.

Stadion Maksimir.
Stadion Maksimir would not win any awards for beauty

The nearest station to the stadium is Bukovacka. From Zagreb station (Glavni Kolodvor) take tram line #4 towards Dubec. From Trg Bana Jelačića Square, take either tram #11 or #12 running to Maksimir in the direction of Dubec or Draskovićeva. Tram #7 also goes to the stadium.

Nations League.
Nations League game Croatia versus Scotland; the game ended 2-1 to the hosts

Within Croatia, cities such as Split, Rijeka, and Osijek have regular rail connections to Zagreb. The Croatian Railways (HŽ) operates these domestic routes, offering both regional and intercity trains that are relatively affordable and comfortable. Internationally, Zagreb is well connected to several major European cities. Direct trains run from cities like Ljubljana (Slovenia), Budapest (Hungary), Vienna (Austria), and Munich (Germany). These routes are part of the broader European rail network, often facilitated by EuroCity (EC) and Railjet services, which provide fast, cross-border travel. Travelers can easily reach Zagreb's main railway station (Zagreb Glavni Kolodvor), which is located in the city center, making rail travel a convenient option for both domestic and international journeys.

Action from Croatia v Scotland.
Action from Croatia v Scotland in the Nations League

Nearby Hotels

Zagreb offers a range of hotel and guesthouse options.

Some recommendations in the city include the 5-star Sheraton Zagreb with a restaurant and heated indoor swimming pool.

The Westin Zagreb also has five stars and offers a pool, spa and saunas.

Other four star options include the Hotel Dubrovnik with a bar and restaurant, the Boutique Hotel HOH and Maistra City Vibes Zonar Zagreb, with a fitness centre and free WiFi.

Croatian fans.
Croatian fans
Scotland fans at Maksimir Stadium.
Scotland fans at Maksimir Stadium

All photos by Ross Clegg

World Stadiums

Bilino Polje Stadium Zenica

Tosu Stadium (Ekimae Real Estate Stadium)

Mizuho Stadium

Estadio Nuevo Colombino Huelva

Sanga Stadium

Estadio La Rosaleda

Croatian ultras.
Croatian ultras

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