It feels like just yesterday that we were crafting the guide for the previous European Championships… and the truth is, it practically was.
Just under eighteen months ago, Europe descended upon the shores of Split for the 35th European Water Polo Championships. If you still have your Croatian phrasebook, dust it off, because the upcoming competition for men is once again gracing beautiful Croatia. This time, the event will be hosted jointly in the capital, Zagreb, and the southern gem of Dubrovnik (we also have a guide). With any luck, fans by the thousands will be able to witness the excitement live. If you find yourself among them, Total Waterpolo’s guide to the 2024 European Championships could prove quite valuable!
THE COMPETITION
As the 36th European Water Polo Championships beckons, it’s time to set our sights on Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital, playing host to a portion of this prestigious event. Amidst the historical architecture and buzzing street life, Zagreb will provide a dynamic backdrop for some of the most anticipated matches of the tournament.
If you’re planning to witness the high-energy battles in Group B (Georgia, Hungary, Italy, and Greece) and Group C (Serbia, Germany, Israel, and Malta) 0r follow the exciting journey for the European title, this guide might be a helpful companion.
European Water Polo Championships LIVESCORING and full schedule
VENUES
Two of Croatia’s and Europe’s largest water polo clubs, Mladost and Jug Dubrovnik, have generously offered their pools to host the men’s competition. With approximately 600 km between the two venues, make sure to double-check your tickets and enter the correct venue into Google Maps!
Mladost pool has a standard permanent capacity of 1,200, although it can reach up to 2,000 with the addition of extra tribunes. Bazen Gruz in Dubrovnik can accommodate up to 3,000 spectators.
HOW TO GET TO ZAGREB?
Zagreb is well-connected to most of Europe. The city’s Franjo Tudman Airport is modern and only a half-hour taxi ride from the city center. We suggest using Uber or Bolt instead of the traditional taxi services. Additionally, there’s a reliable bus service operated by ‘Croatian Airlines’ from the airport to the Kolodvor bus station (ten minutes from the city), costing 8 Euros.
Once in Zagreb, public transport (electric trams and buses) is safe and convenient if you avoid rush hours during the weekdays. All the lines and schedules can be found on the official website – ZET (Zagrebački električni tramvaj/Zagreb electric tram). You can buy 30, 60 or 90-minute tickets (0,80-2,00 €), 7-day ticket (19,91 €) or 15-day ticket (26,54 €)
The nearest bus and tram stop to the pool in Zagreb is called Studenski dom Stjepan Radić (4-5 min walk to the pool).
Car parking in Zagreb is available around the pool for 0.40 € per hour.
Pool location: Bazeni Mladost, Jarunska 5
WHERE TO STAY IN ZAGREB?
There are several excellent hotels in Zagreb; however, availability in the direct vicinity of the Mladost pool is limited. By far the best hotel closer to the pool is the Hotel Admiral Zagreb. This 4-star hotel with a great (and affordable!) restaurant, Taurus. bar, and the biggest casino in Croatia is located just a 6-7-minute drive from the pool.
Book your stay as soon as possible, if there are any left by the time you read this article.
-
- Admiral Hotel
-
- Hotel Admiral entrance
-
- Restaurant Taurus
-
- Hotel A
-
- Admiral Grand Casino
If you are looking for cheaper Airbnb apartmant options, search the following neighbourhoods: Knezija, Srednjaci, Jarun, Tresnjevka, Cvjetno naselje. Pre-night rates begin at 60,00 €.
WHAT TO SEE IN ZAGREB?
While in Zagreb, you’ll certainly want to visit Ban Jelačić Square – the central square of the city surrounded by shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, as well as the Upper Town (Gornji Grad), a wonderful historic district with its medieval architecture and the famous St. Mark’s Church. While you are in the center, you don’t want to miss Zagreb Cathedral, which offers a stunning Gothic cathedral with a rich history and panoramic views from its tower, and the vibrant Dolac Market, the city’s main market, offering fresh produce and local crafts. After dark, Tkalciceva Street provides the nightlife with plenty of lively cafes, bars, and restaurants.
For a touch of greenery, visit Jarun Lake (very close to Mladost pool), a popular recreational area with a lake offering water activities, walking paths, and cafes, or maybe visit Zagreb ZOO located in a beautiful Maksimir Park.
One museum that stands out for its unique concept and captivating exhibits is the Museum of Broken Relationships. Located in the Upper Town, this innovative museum offers a profound and sometimes whimsical look at the complexities of love and heartbreak. As a sports fan, you might also be interested in visiting the Museum and Memorial Center Dražen Petrović.
TICKETS
As we mentioned earlier, the venue doesn’t have a big capacity, so be quick to get your tickets!
Explore the best of our Travel Guides
Read more about the European Championships
For more video content, subscribe to our Youtube Channel and Tik Tok account
