zagreb tourist destination

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Zagreb

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger visited Zagreb in May 2023 as part of a month-long journey around Croatia.

While the coastline and sparkling white, pebbly beaches are often dancing in Croatia's spotlight, its capital city Zagreb is, undeniably, the country's capital of culture. Caught somewhere between the old world and the new, Zagreb is the beating heart of Croatia's cultural scene. It's a must for any first-time trip to Croatia and continues to stay entertaining and relevant for even the most veteran of Balkans travelers.

This juxtaposition of old-world charm and 21st-century energy is palpable. I found myself stepping back in time as I looked out from the historic walls of medieval Gornji Grad ( Upper Town ) over the landscape of red-tiled roofs and cathedral steeples. Without any context, this view could have been at any point in time over the last several centuries.

But upon further inspection, I found evidence of modern-day Zagreb down below in Donji Grad ( Lower Town )— quirky museums, haute Croatian cuisine, and even the occasional ramen shop, the Croatian National Theatre all now make up the Zagreb scene.

A good place to start your Zagreb adventure is in Trg Bana Jelacica, the city's main square where the Upper and Lower Towns meet. Here, you will also find the colorful Tkalciceva Street, which is filled with sidewalk cafes and restaurants, as well as boutique shops. And if you like museums, you'll love Zagreb, which hosts some truly unique ones.

Find the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Zagreb, Croatia.

1. Take a Stroll through Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad)

2. see the treasures at zagreb cathedral, 3. visit the museum of broken relationships, 4. climb lotrscak tower, 5. see the historic stone gate, 6. feel artsy at the museum of contemporary art, 7. the museum of mimara, 8. visit the art pavilion and the mestrovic gallery, 9. get curious at the croatian museum of naïve art, 10. see a performance at the croatian national theatre, 11. explore maksimir park, 12. the archeological and ethnographic museums, 13. the city museum, 14. st. catherine's church, 15. zagreb botanical garden, 16. the gallery of modern art, where to stay in zagreb for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to zagreb, map of attractions & things to do in zagreb, zagreb, croatia - climate chart.

Nothing sets the scene in Zagreb quite like Gornji Grad, with its cobblestone streets and red-tiled roofs. Wandering the narrow stone-walled passageways is a true time hop, though the delightful chants of neighborhood kids playing soccer in the street brings you screaming back to the present.

Gornji Grad has the highest concentration of historic sites in the city, from its historic churches to fascinating (and off-beat) museums. Make sure you stroll along its most famous street, the colorful Tkalciceva Street , which is filled with sidewalk cafes and restaurants, as well as boutiques. Other highlights include Kaptol Square , notable for its many early 17th-century buildings, and the Dolac fruit and vegetable market .

Perhaps the most striking feature, however, is St. Mark's Church , easily recognizable by the brightly colored tile roof bearing the coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, Slavonia, and Zagreb City. Be sure to also pop inside for a look at the stunning interior with its statues by famous Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic, along with frescoes painted by Jozo Kljakovic.

Address: Trg Sv Marka 5, Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb Cathedral was erected on the site of a previous structure destroyed by the Tartars in the early 1200s. Famous for its two ornately decorated spires, the present cathedral was built in the later half of the 13th century, although many alterations and renovations have been made since that have changed the structure dramatically.

Most recently, the earthquake of 1880 destroyed large sections, including the dome and bell tower, although reconstruction maintained the original medieval design. Be sure to also visit the cathedral treasury with its many fine works of religious art, garments, and sacred objects.

From the cathedral it is a quick walk to Trg Bana Jelacica, where you will find a great selection of restaurants for lunch. One that I particularly enjoyed was RougeMarin , whose downtown outpost is a smaller version of its extremely popular larger restaurant. The menu here swings Croatian and Mediterranean with an international twist, from the Japanese-style fried chicken to the "steak tacos" served in fluffy pita boats and filled with mozzarella cheese. Sit al fresco for some excellent people-watching.

Just next door is Torikaya Ramen Bar , a restaurant that serves piping hot bowls of silky ramen noodles in a selection of decadent broths. One thing is certain — you will not go hungry when you're visiting Zagreb.

Address: 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Of all the many museums in Zagreb, this one was perhaps my favorite because, frankly, I've never seen anything else quite like it. It is exactly like it sounds — a museum dedicated to mementos that tell the stories of broken hearts and love gone wrong.

The Museum of Broken Relationships (Muzej prekinutih veza) is a small museum in the heart of Gornji Grad and can be explored in less than an hour. It has four separate all-white rooms, each of which is dedicated to a version of heartbreak. Museum items have all been donated by old lovers and partners from around the world. Alongside each item is the brief story of the relationship's end and what makes the item significant.

Be sure to stop through the gift shop on the way out and pick up an "I Heart Breakups" t-shirt. The museum also has an outdoor cafe with sidewalk seating.

Admission to the museum is 7 Euros.

Address: Sv Cirila i Metoda 3, Gornji grad, Zagreb, Croatia

Built to guard the southern gate of the Gradec town wall, the Lotrscak Tower (Kula Lotrscak) dates to the 13th century and has long been one of Zagreb's most recognizable landmarks. Legend has it that this large, square Romanesque tower once held a bell that rang out each night prior to the closing of the gates to warn residents outside the walls to return (anyone left outside would have to remain there for the night).

In the 19th century, a fourth floor and windows were added to the tower and a cannon placed on its roof, which has since been fired every day at noon. Visitors can climb the tower for stunning views over the city and visit its exhibition gallery and gift shops.

Note: At the time I visited in May 2023, much of Gornji Grad was under construction in preparation for the summer season so many of the attractions were only accessible from the outside.

Address: Tomićeva ul. 9, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Another important medieval structure is the famous Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata), the last of five original city gates, and also found in Upper Town. Built in the 13th century, the building famously survived a fire in 1731, as did its painting of Mary and Jesus.

To commemorate the important relic, a chapel was built to house the painting, which has been the subject of pilgrimages ever since and can still be seen behind a metal grille.

Address: Strossmayerovo setaliste 9, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

One of the newest museum's in Zagreb — and, in fact, the largest and most modern museum in Croatia — the Museum of Contemporary Art (Muzej suvremene umjetnosti) is a must-visit for anyone with even an inkling of interest in art. Commonly referred to as MSU, it was opened in 2009 after its collections outgrew its original galleries that had been established in the 1950s.

This strikingly designed building today houses an impressive collection of more than 12,000 artworks, including some 600 or so on permanent display. While the focus is very much on Croatian artwork, those interested in the work of international artists won't be disappointed, either, with sculpted pieces and paintings from around the globe available for viewing.

English-language guided tours are available for groups of four or more visitors. A shop and a cinema are located on-site, and the museum also offers a diverse program of lectures and workshops.

Address: Avenija Dubrovnik 17, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

The Museum of Mimara (Muzej Mimara) was created to house a collection donated by a private collector, Ante Topic Mimara, in 1972. Housed in an 1895 Neo-Renaissance building designed especially for it, this extensive collection covers a wide range of items from a variety of locations and time periods.

There's also a fine archaeological collection containing pieces from Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Persia, the Middle East, the Far East, India, as well as Inca and Pre-Inca South America. Also of note is a large glass collection from Europe and other Mediterranean countries, along with furniture from the Middle Ages and sculptures from ancient Greece.

Paintings include works by Dutch artists Rembrandt and Ruisdael, Italian artists Raphael and Veronese, Flemish painters Rubens and Van Dyck, and Spanish painters Velázquez and Goya. French and English artists are represented by the works of Renoir, Degas, Boucher, and Delacroix, while notable sculptures include works by Auguste Rodin and Jean-Antoine Houdon.

Address: Trg Franklina Roosevelta 5, Croatia

Zagreb's Art Pavilion (Umjetnicki Paviljon), built for the international exhibition in Budapest in 1896, was given its permanent home here after the original iron framework was transported and reconstructed on its current site. Notable for its colorful yellow Art Nouveau exterior, the Art Pavilion is now used for changing exhibitions of contemporary art and contains important works by revered Croatian artist Ivan Mestrovic .

The oldest exhibition hall of its kind in Croatia, this impressive facility faces Trg Kralja Tomislava, a large public square notable for its statue commemorating the first King of Croatia. Also of interest to art lovers is the Mestrovic Gallery (Atelje Mestrovic), housed in a 17th-century home where Ivan Mestrovic once lived and sculpted. On display are some 300 sculptures in wood, stone, and bronze, as well as drawings, furniture, and lithographs representing a variety of themes, including religion and portraiture.

The most recognized Croatian artist and a world-renowned 20th-century sculptor, Mestrovic later moved to Paris where he became friends with Auguste Rodin (one of his most famous works, Pieta Romana, is on display in the Vatican).

Address: Trg kralja Tomislava 22, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Another one of Zagreb's quirky museums, the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art (Hrvatski Muzej Naivne Umjetnosti) is also very popular. It features many displays of works by such well-known "naïve" artists as Ivan Generalic, Mraz, Mirko Virius, and Smaljic. Also on display are similar style works — sometimes referred to as "primitive" art — by international artists.

Despite the name, naive art was actually a style that was popular in what is now Croatia, as well as the world, in the 1960s and 1970s. It is less popular today but refers to a genre of art that has a dreamlike quality with lots of color.

This museum is one of many located in Gornji Grad, so it's easy to hit a few museums in one afternoon.

Address: Cirilometodska 3, Zagreb, Croatia

Built in 1895 by Viennese architects Hermann Helmer and Ferdinand Fellner, the Croatian National Theatre (Hrvatsko Narodno Kazaliste) sits at the northwest corner of Zagreb's "Green Horseshoe" in Donji Grad. Officially opened in 1894 by Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I, this imposing yellow structure in Trg Marsala is a landmark feature in the Lower Town .

Built in Neo-Baroque and Rococo styles, with two small domes at the front and a larger dome towards the back, the building also boasts a superb interior containing artworks by Vlaho Bukovac and The Well of Life by Ivan Mestrovic. If possible, try to attend one of the venue's regular opera, ballet, or drama performances.

Address: Trg marsala Tita 15, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

Designed in the style of an old English garden, Maksimir Park (Maksimirska) is a beautiful green space encompassing almost 45 acres. The largest park in Zagreb, it contains two pavilions: Bellevue Pavilion, built in 1843, and Echo Pavilion, added after a Swiss design.

The park also boasts many excellent paths and trails, as well as manmade lakes, wooded areas, and flower gardens, making it a great place to relax or have a picnic. For those traveling with youngsters, there's also a small zoo.

Referred to by locals as Zagreb's "living monument," Maksimir Park is named after Bishop Maksimilijan Vrhovac, who was responsible for its construction in 1794. Across from Maksimir park is the Dinamo Football Stadium where Croatia hosts international matches.

Address: Maksimirski perivoj, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

With its focus on Croatia's rich history, Zagreb's Archeological Museum (Arheoloski Muzej) boasts five main collections containing some 400,000 pieces, many of which are from the local area. Of particular interest is the museum's display of Egyptian mummies (the cloth from the Mummy of Zagreb shows script that has yet to be deciphered), Greek vases, and a medieval section focusing on the Great Migrations of the Peoples.

One of the most important pieces is the Head of Plautilla from the ancient town of Salona, as well as an extensive coin collection, including Greek, Celtic, Roman, Byzantine, and modern pieces.

Also of interest is the Ethnographic Museum (Etnografski Muzej) with its extensive collection showing the cultural history of Croatia through exhibits of ceramics, jewelry, gold, musical instruments, textiles, tools, weapons, and elaborate costumes.

The traditional folk costumes alone are worth the visit, with various colors and styles illustrating the country's regional diversity.

Address: 19 Nikola Subic Zrinski Square, Box 13, Zagreb, Croatia

The City Museum (Muzej Grada Zagreba), in Zagreb's Upper Town, consists of the Convent of St. Clair, a tower from the 1100s, and a 17th-century granary. Built along the eastern town wall, the museum has been in operation since 1907 and houses 12 collections, including almost 75,000 pieces.

Together the collections describe the history of Zagreb through documents, maps, art, archeological finds, and other historical pieces, including a superb scale model of the old town of Gradec. The City Museum also has interactive exhibits to interest children, including hands-on workshops and a playroom.

Address: Opaticka ulica 20, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

The Jesuit Church of St. Catherine was built in the first half of the 17th century and is considered one of the finest churches in Zagreb. Highlights include its beautiful interior with many fine examples of Baroque art, along with stucco reliefs by Italian artist Antonio Quadrio dating from the 1720s. Also of note is the ceiling of the nave with its many medallions with scenes depicting the life of St. Catherine by Giulio Quaglia.

Interior detail of St Catherine's Church

Other features of interest are the Altar of St. Ignatius by Francesco Robba and, behind the main altar, the fresco St. Catherine Among Alexandrine Philosophers and Writer s by Kristof Andrej Jelovsek, dating from 1762.

Address: Katarinin trg bb, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia

The Botanical Garden (Botanicki Vrt) was originally built as a research area for Zagreb University's Faculty of Botany. Encompassing some 50,000 square meters, it's part of a series of parks, which form the city's "Green Horseshoe" in Donji Grad .

On the grounds are an arboretum, two ponds with numerous aquatic plants, an ornamental bridge, and some 10,000 different plant species, making for a pleasant escape from the city and a great place to relax or take a walk.

Afterwards, if you have energy left for another museum, take in the nearby Natural History Museum (Hrvatski Prirodoslovni Muzej). Housed in the Amadeo Palace built in the early 1700s, the museum boasts some 2.5 million pieces, including minerals from around the world, an extensive zoological collection documenting a variety of plants and animals from Croatia, and finds from local archaeological digs.

Address: Marulicev trg 9A, Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb's Gallery of Modern Art (Moderna Galerija) is in Donji Grad in the splendid Vraniczany Palace, built in 1882. Home to numerous fine works by 19th- and 20th-century Croatian artists, the Gallery of Modern Art opened in 1973, although the institution dates from the early 1900s when it began acquiring important pieces by such artists as Ivan Mestrovic, Mirko Racki, and F Bilak.

The collection has grown through the years and now displays works by Ljubo Babic, Miljenko Stancic, V. Karas, M. Masic, Emanuel Vidovic, and a host of other well-known Croatian artists, along with frequent temporary exhibitions.

Address: Andrije Hebranga 1, Zagreb, Croatia

The best area to stay for sightseeing is around the historic city center , which puts you within walking distance of major attractions like Upper Town, where St. Mark's Church and Zagreb Cathedral are located. Other good areas include the lively, pedestrian-friendly Tkalciceva Street, which is filled with sidewalk cafés that are fabulous for people watching; and Lower Town, where the main square is located, as well as more shops, restaurants, and museums. We recommend these convenient city-center hotels in Zagreb:

Luxury Hotels:

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is the top pick for historic luxury. It features a glamorous Art Deco lounge and old-world charm throughout. Rooms are comfortable and come with amenities like L'Occitane toiletries. There is also an excellent on-site restaurant.
The elegant Sheraton Zagreb Hotel in Zagreb's city center is another luxe choice located within walking distance of major sightseeing attractions like the Main Square. It has spacious and contemporary rooms and suites.
Also check out Hotel Le Premier , which offers a high-end boutique experience inside a circa 1923 palace.

Mid-Range Hotels:

Hotel Jagerhorn is Zagreb's oldest hotel and an excellent mid-range choice in the city center. This boutique property has lots of character and just 18 rooms that are individually decorated.
Hotel 9 is another option in the center of Zagreb. It is also a boutique property and has contemporary rooms with modern minimal decor.
Finally, Hotel Jarun is a good-value choice, which is popular with families. It offers spacious and modern rooms and features an on-site restaurant.

Budget Hotels:

Hotel Rebro is a top budget pick, which is really good value. Rooms are comfy and hip and there is a free breakfast buffet.
Also try Hotel Slisko for a budget choice. It's within walking distance of the main bus station and comes with spacious, clean, and comfortable rooms; complimentary breakfast; and an on-site restaurant, cafe, lounge, and spa.

There are a number of great day trips on offer from Zagreb that are handy if you want to base yourself in the city for a few extra days and explore the area around it. These tours include an expert guide, transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Plitvice Lakes National Park Day Trip: One of Croatia's top natural attractions, this stunning national park has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Book a full-day Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke tour from Zagreb to explore this scenic landscape. This 11-hour tour has you walking through the park and cruising across Kozkaj Lake, among other activities.
Ljubljana and Bled Day Trip: Another excellent day trip option is the Ljubljana and Bled Day Trip small group tour from Zagreb , which takes you to nearby Slovenia and two of its most popular tourist destinations.

Located in the north of Croatia, Zagreb's seasons are relatively on par with the rest of continental Europe — warm and sunny summers, and cold, snowy winters. The best time to visit Zagreb is between the months of May, June, July, and August , when the weather becomes much warmer on a near-daily basis. That said, summers can also be quite rainy in the capital city, particularly in June with the average rainfall is 104 mm.

May in Zagreb is when the true travel season starts, with temperatures averaging 15 degrees Celsius during the day. I visited in May and was treated to t-shirt weather during the day and a light jacket in the evenings.

In June, Zagreb starts to warm up to a delicious 18 degrees Celsius. Summer is really kicked into high gear in July and August, with an average daily temperature of 21 degrees. This is the time, however, when streets are usually jam-packed with other tourists and hotel prices are at their highest.

September in Zagreb is also a really lovely time to visit as the crowds have thinned out but temperatures remain warm at 16 degrees. Rainfall tapers off in September, as well, with an average of only 66 mm.

32 Things To Do in Zagreb (And What Not To Do) + In 2024

Table of Contents

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I recently spent a wonderful week in Zagreb, eating, exploring, spotting street art and drinking coffee (the things I do best!). To help you have the perfect trip, I’ve prepared this list of things to do in Zagreb, Croatia including the main tourist attractions and some hidden gems. Enjoy!

ZAGREB ESSENTIALS Accommdation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) / car / bus ( Flixbus ) / train ( Trainline ) Getting around: foot / bus / tram / taxi Activities: GetYourGuide Food activities: EatWith

Read next: my tried & tested Croatia itinerary

How long to spend in Zagreb?

Around 2-3 days in my opinion. There’s lots to do in Zagreb and, while you could do a walking tour of the main sights in a day, you wouldn’t have time to linger. As the ‘city of museums’, you may want to spend longer to tick off a few. Add an extra day to visit Plitvice Lakes. Mini Zagreb itinerary: Day 1: Free walking tour and Zagreb sightseeing. Day 2: Plitvice Lakes day trip. Day 3: More Zagreb sightseeing. Visit extra museums, parks, street art… Whatever takes your fancy. All the options are coming up.

Getting to Zagreb

By air: As Croatia’s capital, Zagreb is well connected with the world, particularly other European cities. I flew from London for €8! I use Skyscanner to get the best deals on flights. By car: Many tourists cross the Croatian border by car. To hire one in Zagreb and explore further afield, use Rentalcars.com . By bus: The Flixbus is the cheapest way to travel between cities in Europe. My ticket from Zagreb to Split was €15. Bargain! Book on the Flixbus website . By train: Although there aren’t many trains in Croatia, you can arrive in Zagreb from other European cities. Use Trainline to find tickets .

To get around Europe, use Omio to compare journey prices & times .

What is Zagreb like?

Zagreb isn’t my all-time favourite city in Europe but it’s still pleasant. With just 700,000 residents, it has the feeling of a ‘big village’. During my free walking tour, the guide bumped into four people he knew and each time reminded us that everyone knows each other in Zagreb. With a mountain backdrop, it’s a relaxed place to be. Although there are many derelict buildings and Soviet-style architecture, there are also grand buildings that will remind you of Germany , Budapest , Prague , Vienna and Bratislava . Zagreb is made up of Upper Town and Lower Town . Upper Town can be reached by foot or the funicular and has older buildings, while Lower Town has wider streets and large baroque buildings from Austria-Hungarian Empire days. Many of the notable things to see in Zagreb are located on Lower Town’s green horseshoe of parks.

Quick history of Zagreb

Zagreb was originally two cities, Gradec and Kaptol. The latter was the bishop’s turf while the locals, ruled by the king, resided in Gradec. Tensions divided the two settlements and the river connecting them was often red with blood. Ancient city walls surrounded Zagreb to protect against Turkey invading. Sections of the walls and one of the gates remain to this day. Following the breakdown of the Austrian-Hungarian empire after WWII, Croatia became part of former Yugoslavia. The Croatian War of Independence (or the Homeland War) in the early 1990s saw Croatia fight for its independence which it was granted after the dissipation of Yugoslavia.

Things to do in Zagreb

Let’s start with the main tourist sights before moving onto a few quirky Zagreb attractions, day trips and of course, what NOT to do in Zagreb.

1. Museum of Broken Relationships

Museum of broken relationships things tp do zagreb

Croatia’s most popular museum is the world-famous Museum of Broken Relationships , showcasing donated items from around the world that tell the story of love lost. As the museum explains, society has funerals and marriages but there’s no way to lament – or indeed celebrate – the ending of relationships. I wondered if the museum but seem depressing. Far from it! The items and stories are a mix of funny, rude, jaw-dropping and thought-provoking. Many come back to the relationship with oneself and how healing and growth occur with the passing of relationships and time. If I had to recommend just one thing to do in Zagreb, it’s this! Don’t miss it. Entry price: 40kn (€5). Address: Ćirilometodska 2, 10000, Zagreb. Opening times: 10am-9pm.

Tip – stick around for a coffee or cocktail at the stylish cafe, Brokenships Bistro . With signs saying ‘we have drinks colder than your ex’s heart’, it could only be the Museum of Broken Relationships!

2. Visit art museums in Zagreb

Zagreb is an arty city encompassing all types of creation from fine art to contemporary and even street art (more about that later). Here are a few of the best art museums for your Zagreb sightseeing plans:

Croatian Society of Fine Arts (KOPAC) – built by Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović and converted to a mosque during WWII, this space displays work by famous Croatian artists. Entry costs 55 kuna, closed Mon & Tues. Head to nearby Monocycle cafe after.
Museum of Arts and Crafts (temporarily closed in 2024) – this sunny yellow museum opened in 1880 to preserve national Croatian crafts. Browse over 100,000 items from fine art to ceramics and textiles. Entry costs 30 kuna.
Art Pavilion (temporarily closed in 2024) – on the Lenuci Horseshoe, this is an iconic yellow mansion hosting art exhibitions from all periods. Tickets from 40 kuna.
Mimara Museum – hosting over 3,000 items from around the globe belonging to private art collector, Ante Topic Mimara, the collection is almost as impressive as the neoclassic mansion housing it. Entry costs 40 kuna.
Museum of Contemporary Art – in the south of Zagreb, the country’s biggest museum is worth a visit for modern art fans. Entry is 30 kuna or free on Wednesday mornings. Take a walk in Bundek Park after.
The Croatian Museum of Naïve Art – near St Mark’s Church, this museum displays Naïve Art (a style with childlike simplicity popular in the 20th century). Entry costs 25 kuna.
Lauba – catch number 11 tram to east Zagreb to visit this modern Croatian art gallery in an old warehouse with a bar. Entry costs 25 kuna.

3. More museums

Zagreb isn’t dubbed the city of museums for no reason! If you love history and culture, these are some of the best places to visit in Zagreb:

The 80’s Museum – tour a recreated former Yugoslavian home, learning about the era in an interactive way. It sounds similar to one I did in Sofia , Bulgaria which was fantastic. Entry is 40 kuna.
Zagreb City Museum – for a full introduction to Zagreb (and info about the witch trials of Europe), visit this museum for 30 kuna.
Museum of Illusions – made with Instagram in mind, this is the place to take cool photos with trickery and props. Entry costs 50 kuna.
The Mushroom Museum – now here’s a quirky thing to do in Zagreb! This collection of fungi is managed by an enthusiastic man (don’t make me say fun-guy) who will spoil you with facts. It’s a small place (not mush-room) but worth a quick visit. Entry costs 20 kuna.
Nikola Tesla Technical Museum – named after the Serbian-American inventor, this museum showcases scientific inventions from Croatia’s history including aircraft and cars. Entry costs 20 kuna.

4. Take a free walking tour

I do these everywhere I go! They’re a fantastic introduction to new cities, usually led by funny and informative local guides. My Zagreb tour was no exception! I tend to give €5-10 depending how much I enjoy the tour.

5. Visit St Mark’s Church

St Mark’s Church is one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb, dating back to the 13th century and reconstructed in the 19th century. The tiled roof we see today shows the emblem of Zagreb as well as the flags of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia. Inside, you can see sculptures by Croatia’s most famous sculptor, Ivan Meštrović.

6. Walk through the Stone Gate

The last remaining of Zagreb’s original five gates is the Stone Gate . It survived many fires and when you consider the city was basically made of wood, it probably didn’t deserve to! In a particularly intense fire in 1731, a statue of the Virgin Mary survived unscathed: a miracle or made-up story depending who you listen to 😉 To this day, locals still come to light candles in gratitude and pray to the Virgin Mary. Walk through the Stone Gate to see them at worship and spot ‘hvla’ tiles: messages of thanks etched onto the walls.

The small blue-green star on top of the Stone Gate? An ancient device used to knock witches off their brooms, evidence of the horrific Witch Hunts of Europe that continued to the 18th century.

7. See Vegas chandeliers inside Zagreb Cathedral!

Perhaps you’re keen to visit Zagreb Cathedral for its own merit. Personally, I’ve seen one too many religious buildings in Europe and found the story about Vegas chandeliers more interesting! The story goes that a Croatian was working in the Gold Coast casino in Vegas and asked the owner (at his mum’s request) if they could donate some decadent chandeliers to Zagreb Cathedral which badly needed new lights. The clergy accepted them once they were blessed with holy water! As you can see from the photo, one Cathedral turret is under construction after being damaged in the 2020 earthquake.

8. Ban Josip Jelačić Square

This typical European square in Lower Town with a statue of a man on a horse is one you’ll naturally pass through as several streets connect to it. Ban Josip Jelačić was a key player in the Revolution of 1848, however his statue was removed when Croatia was part of Yugoslavia. After the country gained independence in 1995, the statue was returned to its rightful place much to the delight of the newly-liberated Croatians.

9. Shop at Tržnica Dolac Market

Known as the ‘belly of the city’, Tržnica Dolac Market has been feeding the people of Zagreb since the 1930s. As a tourist, it’s unlikely you’ll need fresh produce (unless you plan to cook in your Airbnb) but it’s still a notable place to visit in Zagreb. Goods on offer include fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat, baked goods… the list goes on! Small stands around the outskirts sell wine and typical souvenirs.

Top tip – it’s cash-only. Brush up on your Croatian please (‘molim’) and thank yous (‘hvla’ pronounced fala) because the older locals manning the stands are less likely to speak English than young people working in cafes.

Foodies, keep reading: I have lots of gastronomic things to do in Zagreb coming up.

More markets

In the heart of the city, Tržnica Dolac is both a local haven and a Zagreb tourist attraction. For a totally local alternative, visit Tržnica Trešnjevka before 2pm. From flowers to cheese, honey, jam and veggies, it’s an atmospheric experience whether or not you buy (although there’s a bakery stand, Dubravica , where I think you WILL want to buy!). Although it’s a trek from the centre, one of my favourite coffee shops, Karibu Kaaawa is just around the corner. If you’re at a loose end, take a 25-minute stroll from town.

10. People-watch on Tkalčićeva Street

Ranked as the #1 thing to do in Zagreb on Trip Advisor, Tkalčićeva is a pedestrianised street prime for people-watching. There are outdoor cafes and restaurants benefitting from live music. In the evenings a bunch of lively bars get going.

11. Buy souvenirs (cravats and truffles) on Radićeva

Did you know neckties originate from Croatia ? Croatians started wearing neckties for good luck during the war but the French adopted them as a fashion item during the Napoleonic wars, calling them ‘cravats’ after the word ‘Croat’ (the name for Croatian people). If you want to buy your own cravat to take home, alongside other souvenirs, wander the length of Radićeva .

Once you’re tired from shopping and Zagreb sightseeing, stop for a drink at Mio Corazon , a quirky bar on Radićeva. In the winter, they serve mulled wine and hot chocolate.

12. Ride the tiny funicular to Upper Town

Places usually show off about being the biggest, tallest or grandest. Zagreb? They have a unique claim to fame: the world’s shortest funicular railway ! The ride takes less than two minutes along a 66-metre track. Since trams depart every 10 minutes, most travellers will find it quicker to walk up the flight of stairs beside it. But for those with mobility issues, it’s a handy option with tickets for just 5 kuna. It connects the Lower Town with Strossmayer Promenade and the Upper Town where you’ll find Lotrščak Tower, St Mark’s Church and the Museum of Broken Relationships.

13. Grič Tunnel

This eerie – and arty – tunnel runs underneath Zagreb, connecting several areas of the city. The Grič Tunnel was built as a World War II evacuation tunnel, repurposed as a storage unit, then abandoned for years. In the 1990s, it became a popular venue for underground raves. Finally, in 2016, it was reopened as a cultural centre. Spot modern art exhibits as you walk through. With a few relatively clean public toilets, it’s also a useful addition to Zagreb city centre. Several entrances have colourful designs adorned with street art including one in the park next to Roots cocktail bar .

14. Soak up views from Strossmayer Promenade

At the top of the funicular tracks lies Zagreb’s best viewpoint. Running along the old city walls once used for defence, Strossmayer Promenade is an atmospheric part of Upper Town to wander at sunset. Park yourself on a bench or get a bird’s eye view from…

15. The Lotrščak Tower – climb for sunset views

For panoramic views, one of the best things to do in Zagreb is climb the Lotrščak Tower . Admire the city to one side and the mountains to the other. Visit just before sunset to see the city bathed in golden light. The tower is home to the Grič cannon , a notable Zagreb landmark fired daily since 1877 to mark midday. After the 2020 earthquake, it’s temporarily out of action. Entrance is just 20 kuna and opening times are 11am-7pm, closed Mondays. It’s a steep climb to the top but I believe in you!

16. Catch a show at the National Theatre

If you’re looking for things to do in Zagreb at night (and fancy something more unusual than hitting the bars) you might be interested in the Croatian National Theatre . This neo-baroque palace is part of Lenuci’s Horseshoe (a U-shaped set of parks with notable buildings including the Botanical Gardens). Theatre, opera and ballet all take place at the National Theatre with tickets from 50 to 170 kuna. Get dressed up and enjoy your night!

Top tip – it’s best to watch the opera or ballet as the language barrier won’t be such a problem. Watching a theatre production in Croatian may be a little confusing.

17. Zagreb 360° Observation Deck – temporarily closed in 2024

I was hoping to get a panoramic view from Zagreb 360° Observation Deck but it’s currently closed, whether due to the impact of the 2020 earthquake I don’t know. I’ll update this when it reopens.

18. Admire the Oktagon

Petar Preradović Square is connected with Ilica street via the Oktogon , a gorgeous passageway designed by architect, Josip Vancaš, in the late 1800s. It’s worth wandering through to snap some photos and admire the symmetrical glass-domed ceiling. Walk through from 8am to 8pm (or until 3pm on Saturdays. Closed Sunday).

Nearby on the street outside, you’ll notice a huge gold orb. This is part of the Zagreb Solar System , an art initiative featuring small planets dotted around the city.

19. Learn about the 1990s war

Croatia has been through a lot in the past few decades including one of Europe’s most recent wars. The Homeland War saw Croatia struggle for independence after its time in Communist Yugoslavia. Since the War Photography Museum has closed, your best option to learn about this era is a walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide. Walk through underground tunnels and visit the Memorial Centre of the Rocket Attacks on Zagreb .

20. Relax in Park Maksimir

If you’ve exhausted the other things to do in Zagreb, spend half a day relaxing in Park Maksimir , the oldest and largest green space in the city. Bring a picnic and sit by the lake or visit the open-air cafe pavilion in the centre. On a sunny day, this is a lovely place to grab a coffee and overlook the long promenade running through the centre. Considering it’s not a speciality coffee shop, I thought the coffee was decent! Maksmir is a bit of a trek from the city centre so I would recommend catching the tram . Numbers 4, 11 and 12 stop near the entrance.

Foodie things to do in Zagreb

Sure, the cultural and historical attractions in Zagreb are nice but what’s more important than food? Nothing. There’s plenty of great food in Zagreb and, better yet, it’s affordable. Although there are tourist restaurants, there are always local eateries in a city this size. Croatian wine is great and there’s also a notable Zagreb craft beer scene . Here are some of the top Zagreb activities revolving around food & drink…

21. Try štrukli (cheese heaven)

As I discovered on my mission to find the best restaurants in Ljubljana, Slovenia , one of the top dishes from the Balkan region comprises of cheese and dough. Bliss! There are two ways to serve štrukli : baked and wrapped in dough, or in a dish (pictured above): kind of like white lasagne. La Štruk restaurant serve both types for 35 kuna with toppings including truffles, walnut & honey, pumpkin pesto, and even sweet ones like blueberry. For a super-indulgent option, I can vouch for the truffle cheese!

22. The coffee scene

One of the best things to do in Zagreb is relax and enjoy the coffee scene. I take coffee so seriously that I put together a whole Zagreb coffee guide based on my findings during a week in town. A few great options are:

Cogito – this is one of Zagreb’s most famous cafes with excellent third wave coffee and baked goods.
In the Yard – also serving Cognito coffee, this is a hidden gem with outdoor seating and cool murals. I get the feeling it’s local students who hang out here rather than tourists (but you’ll still feel welcome). I had a great matcha latte while befriending some local cats.
Korica Bakery – I don’t think you’ll find better baked goods in Zagreb. The cruffins (croissant muffins) were delicious with various fillings like pistachio cream and chocolate. I paid 30 kuna for a cruffin and cappucino.
Quahwa – this speciality roastery is spacious with a warehouse feel, giant roasting machines and booths for co-workers upstairs. Although I kept it simple, there are lots of unusual options like espresso tonic and matcha lattes.

Read next: a complete guide to speciality coffee in Zagreb

23. Try truffles

Harvested in abundance in Istria, it’s not surprising that many restaurants in Zagreb serve truffles . Many delicatessens stock truffle-infused alcohol, cheese, meat, and even honey. Buy them in jars to take home and serve over pasta or eggs. Next door to Mio Corazon bar is a luxury deli where you can sample products before buying.

24. Take a food tour

One of my favourite things to do while travelling (especially solo) is take food tours! With just a few days in a city, it’s hard to get an understanding of the cuisine independently. Take a Zagreb food tour for €60 including 6 dishes, a market visit and wine or beer. Having a local guide will bring you up to speed on what and where to eat in Croatia’s capital!

25. Sample Croatian tapas at Heritage

Easily some of the best food I had in Zagreb was at Heritage Croatian Food , a tiny restaurant using fresh ingredients sourced sustainably in Croatia. Try one of the meat or fish flatbreads (24 kuna) with a fig, cheese and walnut salad (55 kuna and serves about four… I ate it solo, obvs!). Wash it down with Croatian wine or craft beer. DON’T do what I did and order a mint juice. Weird. Don’t know what I was thinking! In peak season, make sure to book ahead. It’s the #1 rated restaurant in Zagreb and there are only a few tables.

26. Meat coma at Pri Zvoncu

Schntizel at Pri Zvoncu zagreb food activities

When a tour guide mentioned a local restaurant off the tourist track with huge portions of food, I knew I had to go! Pri Zvoncu is a cosy, authentic spot serving Croatian dishes as well as general European dishes with a focus on meat and fish. With a friend from the Plitvice Lakes tour, I tried an enormous Weiner schnitzel, a pork fillet stuffed with cheese and ham, the fried cheese starter, and tiramisu. We were stuffed and paid €25 each.

27. Try Bosnian/Serbian food

Börek (pastry filled with meat or spinach) is found from cafes to supermarkets for 5 kuna apiece, while cevapi (ground meat sausages in bread) is a typical dish in modest restaurants. Plac Kitchen & Grill i s a popular option for cevapi but, if you don’t mind the walk, MERAK is ridiculously cheap. A serving of cevapi bigger than your head costs 17 kuna (€2!). Don’t miss the baklava . It closes at 9pm.

Bonus item – I just visited Zagreb again and discovered the city’s best burgers at Submarine . My Beyond Meat burger with truffle cheese fries was to die for!

Unusual things to do in Zagreb

Maybe you’re spending more than a few days in Zagreb or perhaps you’re bored of seeing churches and medieval fortifications around Europe. Here are some unusual Zagreb sightseeing activities…

28. Find street art

With plenty of old Soviet-style buildings, Zagreb is the perfect canvas for urban art. As a big fan of street art , I was excited to check it out. I found lots of colourful murals including a few dedicated street art parks.

29. Kaptol Boutique Cinema & Bar

North of the city centre inside Centar Kaptol is an offbeat Zagreb attraction: a boutique cinema with quirky aesthetics and a bar and lounge. Luckily, Croatia generally add subtitles rather than dub movies which means you’ll be able to understand. The only thing dubbed is generally the cartoons, which actually was a shame since I wanted to watch Encanto and couldn’t! Check movie times on the Kapitol Cinema website. Google the days of the week in Croatian to work out what’s on.

30. Mirogoj Cemetery

This is certainly an unusual place in Zagreb and not somewhere you’ll visit during a flying trip. However, if you have spare time, Mirogoj Cemetery is not as morbid as it sounds. This tranquil park and cemetery is full of elaborate graves that resemble tombs or mini churches. With lavish domed gates surrounding the plot, it looks more Ottoman than Roman Catholic (the national religion of Croatia). Several Croatian celebrities like Dražen Petrović (basketball legend) and Petar Preradović (poet) are buried here.

It goes without saying that you should be respectful as there will be locals remembering their loved ones. I only got my camera out when no one was around. I’ve heard that All Souls’ Day (November 2) is a particularly atmospheric time to visit when candles are light and flowers laid. Catch bus number 226 or take Uber/Bolt there (€5) from Zagreb centre.

Take day trips from Zagreb

Most of these activities in Zagreb will fit into two days (unless you want to visit ALL the museums then you need to stay a month!) so spend a third day exploring Northern Croatia.

31. Plitvice Lakes

Read next: How to visit Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb

Although it’s 2 hours away, one of the most popular things to do near Zagreb is visit the majestic Plitvice Lakes National Park . The natural wonderland of flora and fauna is world-famous for its cascading waterfalls and sixteen lakes with brilliant blue water.

I visited in February and had the rare and magical experience of seeing Plitvice almost empty! In the summer months, it’s undeniably more green and bountiful but receives up to 18,000 tourists visit PER DAY, turning into a packed Disneyland. To get there , you can drive, take a public bus or an organised day trip. There are two types: mass coach trips from April-October that take a shorter hike around the park, and small group tours (max 8 people) all year which take you deeper into the park, climate dependant. I would obviously recommend the latter! Small group tours cost around €30 more so it depends on your budget, of course. Plitvice entrance fees (included in the price of tours) vary from €10-35 depending on the season.

32. Truffle hunting in Istria

Although it’s an expensive excursion, it’s high on my bucket list next time I visit Zagreb. You may have tried truffles before but do you know they’re harvested in Istria in Northern Croatia? Several companies including Truffle Hunting Zagreb will take you from Zagreb to Istria to hunt your own truffles and eat them during the tour. I’m drooling at the thought.

I was recently interviewed about my travels by the Nomadic Foodie podcast and I noticed he also has an episode on truffle hunting from Zagreb . Check it out!

What NOT to do in Zagreb

I think this section needs to become standard in all my blogs. Every city has overrated attractions ( Porto , I’m talking about your ‘Harry Potter’ library!) and sometimes as a tourist, you just don’t know. Here’s what I did in Zagreb and didn’t love…

The Museum of Hangovers

After visiting the Museum of Broken Relationships, I heard about the Museum of Hangovers which sounded equally quirky. I headed to check it out but didn’t find it worth the 40 kuna. Although it doesn’t say so, it was certainly inspired by the Broken Relationships concept. I can’t criticise because it IS a good concept; however the museum is very small and the content wasn’t super engaging. The personal stories were the sort of things teenage boys show off about, and the other information (facts about alcohol, the history of US probation etc) felt a bit disjointed. I bought a beer and regretted it since I didn’t stay longer than 20 minutes in the two rooms that comprise the museum. Since they offer the chance to win a ticket by wearing ‘beer goggles’ and throwing darts, I would suggest only entering if you can get it for free! Nurse a beer elsewhere.

Ride the tram in the wrong direction

One evening when I was trying to avoid a 30-minute walk to dinner, I accidentally caught the tram in the wrong direction not once but twice! It took me over an hour to get to dinner. Fail! Make sure to check you’re getting the right number in the right direction. It’s surprisingly easy to go wrong since trams sometimes travel in the direction of traffic and sometimes in the opposite direction.

Go for a coffee at Booksa

I heard this place mentioned as a nice cafe to go for a coffee or get some work done. However, I walked there for 30 minutes lugging my laptop only to be told it’s members-only and I couldn’t stay for a coffee without paying a monthly fee. Annoying!

Where to stay in Zagreb

Lower Town, Upper Town and Kaptol are all great places to stay in Zagreb. A few accommodation options include… Hostel – right in the Old Town, Swanky Mint has dorms, privates and studios with a young clientele of travellers from around the world. There’s even a seasonal pool and a cool Asian restaurant, Soi Fusion, attached serving amazing food. Book from €11 a night . Apartment: Close to the Cathedral, Apartments Downtown are clean and cool with thoughtful details, TV, Wi-Fi and toiletries. Check availability from €40 . Affordable hotel: the oldest hotel in Zagreb, Hotel Jägerhorn, is one of the best with period rooms and spacious courtyards to eat the complimentary breakfasts. Check availability from €80 . Splash out hotel: the Esplanade Hotel is known as one of the best hotels in Zagreb with five-star rooms, art-nouveau rooms and bathrooms with marble floors and elegant bathtubs. If you need a treat, this is it! Check availability from €150 .

How to get around Zagreb

It’s easy to get around Zagreb on foot. If you stick to the city, you won’t need any transport. If you leave the city centre, your best options are… Trams: These are a quick and efficient way to travel around. Buy tickets for 4 kuna at any newspaper stand (look for the red Tisak stands) then validate them on board. Generally, only the machines at the front and back carriage have the validation machines. Bus: I didn’t take any myself but I hear you can pay onboard with cash (6 kuna). Uber/Bolt: These taxis work as they do elsewhere. Travelling from one end of the city to the other generally costs 35 kuna. My airport taxi was 90 kuna. Cycling: Rent a Next Bike for 5 Kunas per 30 minutes. Download the app, register then unlock bikes using your phone. Tour bus: finally, for a tourist-friendly way to see the city, take the open-top bus tour .

Is Zagreb solo travel friendly?

Yes! As you can tell from the lack of photos of me in this blog, I was in Zagreb solo and felt totally safe. Croatia has the 17th best safety index in the world with little violent crime. Zagreb is a safe place to walk even at night. It’s worth noting there are earthquakes but these are usually relatively mild. It’s also a good place to meet people while travelling solo because there are lots of hostels. If that’s not your vibe, try walking tours or group tours for example to Plitvice Lakes. Use all my solo travel tips if you need them. Enjoy!

Read next: the ultimate guide to solo travel in Croatia

Thanks for reading!

More Croatia blogs…

Croatia itinerary for 1 week
How to include Croatia in an epic Balkans itinerary
The top Zagreb coffee shops
The perfect Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes day tour
Where to see street art in Zagreb
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21 beautiful day trips from – islands, national parks & more!
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Visiting Krka National Park from Split
Where to eat in Split
The top coffee shops in Split
What to do in Split Old Town
Guide to Marjan Hill Split
Things to do & see in Dubrovnik
Guide to visiting Lokrum Island, Dubrovnik
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What to do & see in Zadar
A day trip to Pag Island from Zadar, Croatia
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TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING EUROPE Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains, I use RailEurope and Trainline . The search features allow you to compare prices and book in advance. For buses, I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1! Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

8 thoughts on “ 32 Things To Do in Zagreb (And What Not To Do) + In 2024 ”

Great guide to the city! Very helpful. Cheers!

Glad you like it. Thanks, Anthony!

Thanks for sharing your information.

No problem, have a great trip!

This has been really helpful! We just arrived for business and have the day off. Thanks for taking the time to publish this!

You’re welcome, hope you enjoy Zagreb!

Hello, not sure where specifically to place this comment since it’s relevant to all of the Balkans. Was wondering if it’s best to buy bus tickets (from Sofia to Skopje, Skopje to Ohrid, Dubrovnik to Split, Split to Zagreb, etc) online or at the bus station I get off at? Thank you for your content! I’ve found them most helpful!

Hey I like to book Flixbus where possible but for the others I would just buy them from the bus station!

25 Wonderful Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb (Croatia), together with Ljubljana (Slovenia) , was the first city I’ve ever visited in the Balkans , some twenty years ago.

Back then I didn’t know much about things to do in Zagreb and I remember how pleasantly surprised I was – the grand architecture from the Habsburg times and the city’s vibe made me fell for the place right away. I felt this must be one of the best hidden gems in Europe back then.

Since then I was lucky to visit Zagreb many more times. It was either a short stop during my travels (like my flight to New Zealand was from there) or a city break destination itself when I could enjoy Zagreb attractions.

The city became much more popular too, Zagreb tourism is booming, bringing to the Croatian capital many tourists who wanted to see more than just the popular places to visit in Croatia .

But no matter how many times I’ve been to Zagreb, I always like returning there to enjoy the city. I have my favorite streets, cafes, bookstores, or museums that I always visit and Zagreb simply feels right to me. It’s one of those places where I just like being in.

It’s about time I share with you my favorite things to do in Zagreb and show you what an interesting and beautiful city this is. I really hope this Zagreb guide will inspire you to visit the city and push you to plan your own Zagreb trip.

Planning a trip to Zagreb?

Here are the highly-rated hotels, tours, and services recommended for your trip:

Accomodation:

MANDA Heritage Hotel (9.2/10)
Casablanca Boutique Bed&Breakfast (9.1/10)
Bed & Breakfast Sky (9.5/10)

Tours and activities:

2.5-Hour Walking Tour with Funicular Ride
Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Day Trip
Taste Zagreb Food Tour

Internet: Stay connected with Airalo eSim card – click here to get yours!

Insurance: Get insured for your trip to Croatia with SafetyWing

Airport Transfer: Use Welcome Pickups for a smooth ride from the airport to your accommodation in Zagreb. Click here to book the airport transfer.

Car rental: Compare prices and find the best deals on rental cars in Croatia on Discover Cars .

Table of Contents

Why visit Zagreb

Zagreb, the largest city and the capital of Croatia, is often overlooked by tourists who choose more popular seaside destinations in the country and don’t really know what to do in Zagreb. But the city is well worth a visit and the number of great Zagreb tourist attractions might be really surprising.

The capital of Croatia can enchant with beautiful and impressive architecture, great museums, and many more Zagreb must see places, including alternative spots. This is one of the best places to learn about Croatia and its history.

And if you have more time in your Croatia itinerary , you can base yourself in Zagreb and go for some great day trips from there!

You can read more about reasons to visit Zagreb here.

How many days for visiting Zagreb?

You can spend one day in Zagreb, get a taste of the city and focus on Zagreb sightseeing in the Lower and Upper Town.

But I believe Zagreb deserves more of your time as it gets better and better with each hour spent there. During my last trip to Zagreb, I spent five days there and I still left with a heavy heart, missing some of my favorite places.

I think the optimal time for visiting Zagreb is two days and then add more days if you want to go for day trips from Zagreb.

How to get to Zagreb

Zagreb is very well connected with many European countries (not to mention domestic destinations) so getting there shouldn’t be a problem.

The local airport is located some 20 km from the center, the bus journey takes around 30-40 minutes to the central bus station, the ticket costs 6€. Buses run every half an hour between 06:00 and 20:00, the bus stop is on the right when leaving the airport. You might also pre-book transfer directly to your accommodation – click here for details .

The main train station is located at the edge of the Lower Town, some 10 minutes walking to the main square – Trg bana Josipa Jelačića. You can get to Zagreb by train from Slovenia , Austria, Germany, Hungary , Switzerland or Serbia , there are also connections within Croatia.

The central bus station is some 15 minutes walking east from the train station. If you come from another destination in Croatia you will most likely arrive in Zagreb by bus. To get to the center you need to take the tram from the bus station.

Zagreb Main Train Station

How to get around Zagreb

Most of Zagreb attractions are located in the central part of the city and can be easily visited on foot.

If you need to get to more distant places, like Mirogoj cemetery or Museum of Contemporary Art, you will need to use public transport. This, fortunately, works really well in Zagreb. You can use trams or buses, the ticket can be bought at the kiosk – there are plenty of them around Zagreb.

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Things to do in Zagreb

And now, let’s talk about what to see in Zagreb! You will really be surprised how many attractions in Zagreb you can find!

Here are the best things to do in Zagreb, in no particular order.

Admire the beautiful architecture of the Lower Town

The Lower Town is the heart of Zagreb and the most beautiful area of the city that you simply can’t miss. It was created at the end of the 19th century below the more famous Upper Town.

I personally prefer the Lower Town with its rows of wide streets that are lined with the grand townhouses from the time when Zagreb was part of the Habsburg Empire. You can easily feel like you are in other important cities of Austria-Hungary as these buildings and style is the same as in Lviv , Przemysl , Brno , Cluj Napoca , Novi Sad , Timisoara and many more places in Central Europe .

Lower Town is such a perfect area to wander and admire all the beauty around – some of the houses are so rich in art-nouveau details it’s hard to take your eyes out of them.

The most beautiful part of the Lower Town is between the main train station and Trg bana Josipa Jelačića, where you can find some lovely green spaces too (they were part of the smart urban planning back in the times). When you are there be sure to visit the Art Pavilion too as the interior is really stunning, a perfect example of how the buildings of the public use were designed at the turn of the 19th and 20th century.

The Lower Town is the business, shopping, and cultural center of Zagreb and you will find plenty of shops, cafes, or museums there however the biggest highlight of this area is the architecture. This is one of the places to visit in Zagreb you simply can’t miss.

Wander around the Upper Town

The Upper Town is where you will find the majority of attractions in Zagreb. This is the oldest part of the city, dating back to the 11th century and is so much different than the Lower Town. Instead of grand townhouses, you will find here smaller houses, cobbled streets, and winding lanes.

Wandering aimlessly around here is a pure pleasure – it’s so easy to fall in love with this area and you might randomly find here so many charming corners. You can easily forget here that you are in a busy capital – the traffic is limited, the place is rarely overcrowded (although it is popular among tourists) and life seems to go by slowly.

Before you start a proper Zagreb sightseeing here, be sure to spend some time just feeling the vibe of the place.

Ride one of the shortest funiculars in the world

The funicular, one of Zagreb highlights, connects the Upper and Lower Town and is among the shortest ones in the world – it covers a distance of only 66 meters and the ride takes exactly 64 seconds. This is actually the oldest mode of public transport in Zagreb as the funicular was opened in 1890, a year before the horse-drawn tram.

The funicular is open every day between 6:30 am and 10 pm and runs every 10 minutes. The ticket is less than 1€ but other public transport tickets can be used too.

If you don’t want to ride the funicular there are stairs next to it so you can still see its original construction.

Visit the Cathedral

The cathedral is probably the most popular of Zagreb landmarks and one of the must things to see in Zagreb as its twin towers can be seen from numerous locations all over the city (after all this is the tallest building in Croatia).

Originally the cathedral dates back to the early 13th century but the 1880 earthquake damaged the structure so badly it had to be rebuilt in the current, neo-Gothic style.

The entrance to the cathedral is free and you should definitely step inside to see its beautiful Gothic interior and the treasury.

Stop at the Stone Gate

When walking between the Upper and Lower Town via Kamienita ul. you will pass the Stone Gate – part of the city walls from medieval times. Stop there for a second since it’s one of the most important sacral places for locals. In fact, you might find there some people praying in silence or lighting a candle, that’s because you can find there the painting of the Virgin Mary with baby Jesus.

The legend says that during the 1731 fire the Stone Gate and the surroundings were badly damaged. Only one thing remained untouched – the painting. You can see it behind the beautifully decorated Baroque iron gate made by the local craftsman in 1778.

The interior of the gate is covered in votive plates, you should also think a wish yourself when you are at the Gate. Even if you are only passing by, walk through the gate in silence to respect those praying there.

Shop at Dolac market

Right in the center of Zagreb, a few steps away from the cathedral and the main square – Trg bana Josipa Jelačića, you will find the local farmers’ market – Dolac. This is the best place to buy fresh food from the local producers and even if the prices might be a bit higher it is still worth paying extra for the quality of the products.

The Dolac market has been part of the city’s scenery since 1930 and over the year it has become the major trading point in Zagreb where farmers from the surrounding villages came to sell their products.

In the upper, open-air part you can find fruits, vegetables or flowers and in the lower one, there’s meat, fish, or dairy products.

Even if you are not planning to do any shopping it’s worth to walking through the market to feel its vibrant atmosphere and enjoy all the colors and smells.

Visit Mirogoj cemetery

Mirogoj cemetery is one of the most beautiful necropoleis you will find in Europe and the most important cemetery in the country, the resting place for many famous Croatians. The cemetery was established at the end of the 19th century and designed by one of the most popular architects in Austria-Hungary – Hermann Bollé (he is buried there too).

Unlike many other cemeteries, this one was owned by the city, not the church and therefore could be used to burry people despite their religion. When you wander around you will find the graves of members of all religious groups: Catholic, Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Protestant, and more.

The most impressive part is right at the entrance – along the wall you will see long, beautiful and picturesque arcades where the most notable people were buried – some of the graves are very rich in details. You will definitely spend here a bit, wandering around, admiring beautiful ornaments on the graves, and reminiscing about Zagreb’s past.

The Mirogoj Cemetery is located a bit away from the center but it’s easily accessible by bus no 106 from near the cathedral.

Look at Zagreb from above

One of my favorite things to do in every city is finding viewpoints and looking at the place from a different perspective. Luckily, in Zagreb there are a few places where you can see the city from above and each of them is great.

At the edge of the Upper Town, you can find nice views from the Strossmayer Promenade, on both sides of the funicular. You can see the rooftops of the Lower Town and the cathedral towers from there, the promenade itself is a nice place for a stroll anyway so don’t miss it.

While you are there you can also go to the top of the Lotrščak Tower to see even better views of both, the upper and lower town and beyond. The tower itself is interesting too – it’s one of the few remnants of the medieval city walls, originally it was built in the mid-13th century. Before reaching the viewing platform on top you can see the exhibitions inside the tower.

Another viewing point worth visiting is the Zagreb 360° observation deck, located on the 16th floor of the skyscraper at the edge of Ban Jelačić Square. From there you can see the beautiful panorama of the whole city and its main landmarks.

If you want to relax a bit there is a popular bar there too so you can have a drink when enjoying the views of Zagreb.

The good news is when you purchase the ticket it is valid for more entries over a certain period so you can return to the observation deck to see the city during a different time of the day.

Visit museums

Zagreb has some really great and interesting museums. In fact, the Croatian capital is known for having the biggest number of museums per capita in the world. During my last trip there I spent a big part of my time visiting some of them and not a single one has disappointed me!

The most popular one is of course the world-famous Museum of Broken Relationships – such an interesting and unique place to visit. The museum is located in the Upper Town, next to the Lotrščak Tower so you can easily put it in your Zagreb itinerary.

As the name indicates, the museum focuses on the broken relationships – people from all over the world have donated their personal items that tell the story of their past relationships. Some of them are heartbreaking, some of them are funny. Some of them are typical love relationships between partners, others show the bond between family members or even a dedication to pizza.

This is such a quirky place, one of the weirdest museums you will ever see but you don’t want to miss it! You want to get a skip-the-line ticket in advance though, I had to return the other day since the place was too busy and they didn’t let new visitors in. Click here to get the ticket.

Another museum I really liked was the Museum of Contemporary Art, however, this one is located away from the center and you need to take the tram to get there.

If you like contemporary art it’s definitely worth it – the place is really big and shows the variety of works mainly by Croatian artists (but there were some international ones when I visited too). I spent half of the day there and still could have stayed there longer, there was so much to see!

There are only two of many museums in Zagreb but the choice is really big and diverse and you will easily find museums that will interest you. I wrote a separate article about Zagreb museums – you can read it here.

Learn more about the 1990s war

In the 1990s the cruel Yugoslav war rolled by the Balkans and even if Zagreb wasn’t very affected by the tragic events in the region, the city still got its share of the war reality.

You can learn more about the Zagreb rocket attacks in 1991 and 1995 in the dedicated memorial center that focuses solely on these events and commemorates victims and injured ones. The memorial center is located near the main square, at Frano Petrić Street 4/I (it’s on the first floor, you need to ring the bell) and is free of charge.

Another, more touching place, is the War Photography Museum.

You will see here some disturbing yet amazing photos showing the reality of the 1990s Yugoslav war in Croatia (destroyed Vukovar , besieged Dubrovnik , rocket attacks in Zagreb, and more). Photos were taken by well-known professional artists as well as amateurs who died capturing the tragedy of the war.

This is a must-visit place for everyone who is interested in the recent history of Croatia and the Balkans.

There is also a highly rated tour focusing on the Croatian Homeland War – if you are interested in the recent history of Croatia you should definitely join it. Click here for details and availability.

Check out the local cafes

With the Habsburg cafe culture legacy you can be sure to find some great cafes in Zagreb. Many of them are hip and cool, serving great coffee so spending time there and chilling over a cup of delicious black drink is a pure pleasure.

I’ve checked plenty of cafes in Zagreb but my favorite ones were Booksa (a literary club, perfect place to read a book over a cup of coffee), Program Bar (located next door fro Booksa, with a really cool interior), Botaničar (located near the National Theater, a stylish yet hip place) and Cogito Coffee (serving probably the best coffee in Zagreb).

But there are many more great cafes in Zagreb and I’m sure you will easily find your favorite ones there!

Find street art

The local street art scene in Zagreb is pretty amazing and you will find so many great works there. Besides the random graffiti or tags, you can find in all the cities, there are some really fine murals too.

They are often painted in the dedicated areas, like the long wall along Kneza Branimira street between the train and bus stations where you will find one great work after another.

Other places you should check include the area near the University Students Center, Medika Cultural Center or Dugave and Siget areas in Novi Zagreb. But the thing with street art is that you never know where you might find it so keep your eyes open when exploring Zagreb.

Track down Zagreb Solar System

Did you know that Zagreb has its own Solar System? In 1971 the local artist Ivan Kozaric created a sculpture of Sun and a few years later, in 2004 a designer Davor Preis made an installation – Nine Views – with models of nine planets.

You can find them all over the city – the location of them isn’t random, they are a scaled model of the Solar System (1:680 000 000) and the distance between the sun and the planets is accurate (for example Earth is 225 meters away from the Sun).

This is one of the quirkest yet not well-known Zagreb attractions but finding the planets can be so much fun (although I must admit I didn’t manage to find them all).

You can find sun in Bogovićeva Street – you will not miss it since it sits in the middle of the street and is around 2 meters in diameter. Here are the locations of the planets:

Mercury – 3 Margaretska Street
Venus – 3 Ban Josip Jelačić Square
Earth – 9 Varšavska Street
Mars – 21 Tkalčićeva Street
Jupiter – 71 Voćarska Street
Saturn – 1 Račićeva Street
Uranus – 9 Siget
Neptune – Kozari 17
Pluto – Bologna Alley (underpass)

Marvel at the Oktogon

Even if located right in the very center of Zagreb, Oktogon is one of the hidden gems of the city. This stunning passage connects Ilica street and Cvjetni Trg and goes through the building of the former First Croatian Savings Bank (originally built in 1990, Oktogon was already part of it then).

There are actually two passages with a beautiful octagonal stained-glass rooftop (hence the name of the passage) above the place where they connect. Be sure to walk through the passage and stop for a second in the middle to admire the beauty of this place.

Shop at the flea market

If you like shopping at flea markets don’t miss the Sunday antique market on Britansky trg. You will find some true gems and most unusual stuff there – from old furniture and clothes to crystals and unopened letters. Even if you don’t plan to do any shopping you can still stop by for the vibrant atmosphere of the place and a peculiar selection of old stuff.

There is one more flea market in Zagreb, at the Hrelić on Sajmišna Cesta on Wednesdays and Sundays, but the one on Britansky trg is easier to visit and seems to be more vintage. During the rest of the week, you will find a regular farmers’ market here.

Walk through the Grič Tunnel

Even if Grič Tunnel is located right in the center of Zagreb, not many visitors seem to know about it.

It was built during World War 2 and was supposed to serve as a bomb shelter but right after the war it fell into disrepair and was used only briefly in 1990s to host one of the first raves in Croatia and to be a shelter during 1990s war. Only recently the tunnel was finally renovated and open to public, it often hosts cultural events.

The total length of the tunnel is 350 meters, it connects Mesnička Street and Stjepan Radić Street and has six exits, at both ends and four branches to backyards on Ilica Street and Tomić Street.

Enjoy the culinary scene

As you can expect from the capital, Zagreb is a great destination for all food lovers. I recommend trying here some of the delicious Croatian dishes but there are also plenty of international restaurants if you feel like eating well-known food. If you opt for the local cuisine the best restaurants serving Croatian dishes are Stari Fijaker, Vinodol, La Štruk or Pod Zidom Bistro.

You might also want to join the highly rated culinary tour to learn more about Croatian cuisine and try some of the best local dishes. Click here to see the details and book the spot!

Buy local souvenirs

In the center, especially on Radiceva street, you will find a few regular souvenir shops where you can find usual things to bring home.

If you are looking for more unique yet typical Zagreb souvenirs you can buy things like cravat (a necktie), Licitar hearts (the symbol of Zagreb, a UNESCO protected Intangible Cultural Heritages), or Šestine Umbrella (you can see its bigger version at Dolac market stands).

There are also local designers shops that can be perfect stops for unusual shopping.

I always end up buying too many books by local authors translated into English or those about the history of Croatia and the Balkans, my favorite bookstores in Zagreb are Planetopija at Ilica 68 and Arkadija at Trg Bana Josipa Jelačića 14, I always manage to find some good books there.

Discover the alternative side of Zagreb

While the center of Zagreb is neat with its charming corners of the Upper Town or grand architecture of the Lower Town, there are also a few spots that you can call alternative.

The most popular one is Medika – the first legalized squat in Zagreb, located in the former medical factory. This is the heart of alternative Zagreb , where the best parties in the city take place, along with some good art exhibitions, movies screening, workshops or flea markets. Even when there is nothing going on Medika is a cool place to stop at to see all the great street art around.

Another cool spot, not far from Medika, is Student Center of the University of Zagreb. Besides the typical administrative offices for students you will find there an art gallery, a theater and again plenty of good street art.

These are only two cool places in Zagreb but there are more of them so if you like the alternative vibe and modern culture you might really enjoy Zagreb.

Find brutalist architecture

Brutalist architecture is gaining more and more popularity in recent years and the concrete buildings you can see in the Balkans are really impressive, just look at Belgrade or Skopje .

Fortunately, also in Zagreb you can find some really fine examples of brutalism, even though they are not located in the center and require a bit of a detour.

The most iconic brutalism in Zagreb is the Zagreb Rockets – the three residential buildings in the shape of concrete rocket, built in 1963 (you can find them at ul. Lavoslava Ružičke). Other buildings worth seeing are The Mammoth (Mamutica) at ul. Božidara Magovca, apartment block at Vukovarska 52, Kockica at Prisavlje 14, Super Andrija at Siget or Zagrepčanka at Savska cesta 41.

You can join the 2.5-Hour Cycle Back to Socialism Tour to learn more about socialist/communist history of Zagreb and see some interesting sights from that period. Click here for details and to book the tour.

Stroll through the botanical garden

Zagreb botanical garden is one of the prettiest garden of this kind you will find in Europe. It was founded in 1889 and opened to public two years later.

You can find there over 10.000 plant species from all over the world, including almost 2.000 exotic ones. To make the place even more picturesque there is also a small pond in the middle, adding charm to the overall look of the place.

The best time to visit is obviously in the spring when all the flowers and plant bloom but the botanical garden is beautiful all year long. You will find it in the Lower Town, not far from the train station.

Witness the cannon fire

Don’t be surprised or afraid when you hear the cannon fire around noon – nothing wrong is happening, it’s just the local tradition.

Each day exactly at 12:00 you can see the cannon blast from the Lotrščak Tower – the tradition has been present for over a hundred years now and it commemorates Zagreb’s victory over the Turks. Try to be near the Lotrščak Tower around noon to see it yourself, this is one of the biggest Zagreb attractions.

And once the cannon was shot you can continue with visiting the Upper Town or take the funicular down to the Lower Town.

Relax in the pleasant parks

The central part of Zagreb offers some very pleasant green spaces, perfect for relaxing after sightseeing.

The most popular parks are King Tomislav Park, Josip Jurji Strossmayer Park, and Zrinjevac Park, located next to each other between the train station and Ban Josip Jelačić Square – all of them are really lovely and worth stopping by. Another lovely green area is Park Ribnjak located behind the cathedral.

If you would like to go hiking you can also do it right outside of Zagreb – there are some really nice green areas not far from the city.

Visit the National Theater

The Croatian National Theater, located at Trg Republike Hrvatske, is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, constructed at the end of the 19th century in the neo-Baroque style. It is spectacular not only from the outside but also inside, with rich decorations and an interior that can surely take your breath away.

You can come here for the theater or opera play as well as the ballet show – not only you will attend a great event but also will be able to see the real beauty of this place. The tickets have affordable prices and can be bought online or at the theater.

Visiting the theater without attending a show is possible only for groups of 25 and more people.

Go for day trips

When planning your trip be sure to allocate more time in your Croatia itinerary to also go for some day trips from Zagreb. There are some really great places you can visit as side trips from the capital and you can reach them by car, public transport or with a tour!

The closest one is Samobor, located just a short ride from the city. The town is known for its beautiful location, numerous monuments and delicious cream-cake.

You can also easily go from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes and visit this spectacular place, one of the highlights of Croatia. The numerous lakes and waterfalls are really impressive and worth seeing!

You might even hop across the border and visit Slovenia , it’s not too far away!

I wrote the whole article dedicated to the ideas of day trips from Zagreb – click here to read it!

If you would like to an organized tour, here are some recommended ones:

Rastoke & Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour from Zagreb
Istria Day Tour From Zagreb
Enchanting Slovenia, Ljubljana and Postojna Caves Small-Group Tour from Zagreb
From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Tour
From Zagreb: Varazdin Baroque Town & Trakoscan Castle

Plitvice Lakes

Final thoughts on visiting Zagreb

As you can see, Zagreb really has a lot to offer and is such an interesting city to visit. This can be a perfect starting or ending point of your Balkan trip , a great place to learn more about Croatia and the region.

While the seaside destinations in Croatia are amazing, give Zagreb a chance too, you will not be disappointed! I’m already looking forward to my next trip to Zagreb!

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Zagreb
I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Croatia here.
If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Croatia check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Zagreb too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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17 Comments

Wonderful and impressive presentation of Zagreb and Croatia. The pictures are really high quality.

A lovely article with many useful tidbits.

But I have to stress that situating Zagreb (and Ljubljana) on the Balkan peninsula is just factually wrong. Croatia and Slovenia aren’t Balkan countries, neither culturally, historically nor even geographically as majority of the those countries are outside the Balkans

Excellent article, just what I was looking for. Thanks!

I’m glad to hear that! Cheers!

Excellent article, very helpful, easy to go through. Thanks

Amaaaaazing article! What a great job you have done Kami👌🏻 I am looking forward to explore the city according your recommendations

Thank you, I’m glad you found it useful. Have a great time in Zagreb!

Flink Gerhard

Klasse Reisebericht

hasan biber

thanka a lot Kami, soon ı will be visiting Zagreb and following your tips

Great, thanks! Have a wonderful time in Zagreb!

Kevin Sciberras

Thanks a lot for sharing this information with us! Very informative and detailed. Looking forward to visit Zagreb at the end of March 2024.

I’m glad you found it useful. Have a great trip to Zagreb, it’s such a wonderful city! All the best!

Let’s become friends!

Join me on Facebook for even more travel updates!

Kami and the rest of the world

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Home » Travel Guides » Croatia » 15 Best Things to Do in Zagreb (Croatia)

15 Best Things to Do in Zagreb (Croatia)

Zagreb is Croatia’s capital and largest city, marking the intersection between Eastern and Central Europe for more than a thousand years.

For a modern capital Zagreb has a kind of small-town charm, with an expansive old hilltop district of cobblestone streets and squares lit to this day by gas lamps.

Down the slope you’ll see Zagreb’s Viennese influence in the Lower Town, an area with 19th-century pavilions and manicured gardens that resemble the best of Prague or Budapest.

By day you can amble the pedestrian streets and park yourself at one of the many cafes, and by night you can paint the town red and see why those in the know make such a fuss of Zagreb’s nightlife.

Let’s explore the best things to do in in Zagreb :

One of Zagreb’s many curiosities is the way the old town developed as two separate hilltop settlements side-by-side. And their relationship wasn’t always friendly either! Kaptol and Gradec did not integrate for many hundreds of years.

Kaptol is where the clergy was based, the diocese of Zagreb being founded here back in 1094. The main landmark in Kaptol is Zagreb Cathedral, which dates to the city’s earliest year but was razed by the Mongols in the 1200s and then was damaged in a 19th-century earthquake.

Take a look at what remains of the cathedral’s fortifications, which were built when the building was used as an observation tower during the Ottoman wars.

This was the secular part of Zagreb’s medieval core, populated by artisans and tradesmen. Today it’s a quaint old district, ideal for walks as the cobblestone streets have been pedestrianised in recent years.

Culturally and politically the headline is St. Mark’s Square, where the Croatian Parliament and Constitutional Court are found. St. Mark’s Church gave the square its name and retains plenty of its original romanesque architecture, blended with later gothic additions in the 1300s.

At the top of Radićeva Street is Gradec’s last remaining town gate, which became a shrine to the Virgin Mary after an 18th-century fire destroyed the entire structure save for a painting of the Virgin (or so they say!).

3. Lower Town

Zagreb’s refined Lower Town was laid out in the 1800s and unlike the twisting alleys of the medieval core it’s all wide avenues and grand neo-classical buildings.

Lower Town is where the city’s more prestigious hotels are located, as well as much of its green space and several high-profile museums that we’ll come to in due course.

You could come for lunch at a cafe or for a spot of upmarket shopping and then take an easy walk through this leafy part of town.

4. Jelačić Square

Road traffic is also prohibited on this square, which is a gathering point for the modern city and is served by no fewer than seven of the city’s tram lines.

Here you’ll get the sense of Zagreb as a bustling place of business, full of office workers and shoppers, and you can people-watch from the table of a sidewalk cafe.

The square is named after 19th-century ruler, Count Josip Jelačić who was considered an expert military strategist.

His statue was erected in the square in the 1800s, but because Jelačić came to symbolise Croatian nationalism it was removed during communist times before being reinstated in 1990.

5. Go out in Tkalčićeva Street

Whether you’re in need of some live music at a bar or a good sit-down meal, Tkalčićeva should be your first port of call. It’s where Zagrebians go to enjoy themselves.

By day Tkalčićeva is a charming street of low-rise painted houses with balconies and awnings that you can appreciate on a romantic amble.

When the sun goes down you’ll have your pick of Zagreb’s best cafes, restaurants and nightspots.

If you want to pick up something to go, or have an elegant meal with a loved one, you’ll find what you’re looking for Tkalca.

6. Dolac Market

If you’re going self-catered then a visit to Zagreb’s daily farmers market is essential.

Open in the mornings, Dolac Market draws on regional farms, and is great place to buy meat, dairy products, vegetables and Croatian artisanal items, but it also brings in a fine array of fresh seafood from the coast.

Some locals describe Dolac as the “Belly of Zagreb”, and as much as anything it’s a great way to see how Zagrebians go about their day.

The stairway that leads off the marketplace will carry you to Optovina, which is the city’s main flower market.

7. Statue of Marija Jurić Zagorka

One of Croatia’s most celebrated modern cultural icons, Zagorka was the country’s first female journalist and a beloved author, born in 1873.

Her statue can be found on Tkalčićeva and she’s dressed in modest Edwardian garb, which clashes a little with the relaxed and trendy bars and cafes on this street.

Zagorka’s nineteen novels are still widely read to this day and many are set in Old Zagreb, for which she had an affinity.

At the height of her career she also founded Women’s Papers, a pioneering women’s magazine that was distributed throughout Austria-Hungary.

8. Mimara Museum

This Lower Town museum is named after the 20th-century art collector Ante Topić Mimara, who can best be described as a colourful character.

The permanent exhibits at the museum were donated by Miramar who was linked with art theft during the Second World War and also forgery after that.

Some critics claim that there are a number of fakes in the museum’s collection but it is still a good way to spend a couple of hours.

Works by Canaletto, Rubens, Holbein, Velazquez, Goya, Monet, Renoir and Degas are all on display here.

9. Archaeological Museum

Zagreb’s location at the historical meeting point between west and east has brought a host of civilisations to its door. So you can guess that a visit to the city’s archaeological museum is an intriguing trip through all kinds of eras and cultures.

One of the best pieces here is the Vučedol Dove, a ritual vessel that dates back to at least 2500 BC. There’s also Liber Linteus, an Etruscan mummy from the 3rd century BC, which was wrapped with bandages that contain the longest Etruscan text in the world.

Most of the text hasn’t even been translated as so little is known about the language.

10. Pick up a Licitar

Out and about in Zagreb you may notice that the city is fond of its red hearts. They’ll appear on leaflets, shop signs and almost anywhere else you care to look.

These refer to Licitars, a traditional symbol of Zagreb. They are a kind of honey dough cookie that take several weeks to prepare.

After the heart-shaped cookies are finally baked and cooled they are painted with a glossy and edible red enamel, and intricately decorated with piped patterns and messages.

So deeply rooted is the craft that Licitars are recognised by UNESCO as being representative of northern Croatian culture. So that’s your souvenir sorted!

11. Lenuci Horseshoe

If you needed a reminder that you’re in the former Austro-Hungarian empire, this handsome series of squares, fountains and grand buildings will make it clear enough.

The Horseshoe wouldn’t look out of place in Vienna or Budapest, and more than merits a saunter at any time of year.

The project takes its name from its 19th-century designer Milan Lenuci and forms a u-shape in Zagreb’s Lower Town.

Two attractions in the Horseshoe include the Botanical Garden, collecting 10,000 plant species from around the world, and the elaborate Croatian National Theatre, Zagreb’s premier venue for ballet, opera and drama.

12. Jarun Lake

Zagreb is quite a long way inland, so when things get hot in summer Jarun Lake picks up the slack.

It welcomes a huge range of leisure activities, from competitive rowing and kayaking to skateboarding and cycling, but is also fine if you just want to take it easy and cool off at the lake’s pebble beaches.

Zagreb also comes to Jarun for some nightlife, and there are a number of bars and nightclubs on the lakeshore. If you plan ahead and are in town in late-June then the INmusic festival takes place here.

13. Museum of Broken Relationships

This museum is devoted to break-ups. If that doesn’t seem like everyone’s idea of a good time you can rest assured that this attraction is as amusing as it is poignant.

There’s a kind of therapeutic purpose to the exhibits, which have been donated to the museum by lovelorn people from around the world.

So what you’ll find is a large collection of seemingly random items, each accompanied by a panel explaining their significance to a relationship that didn’t work out or ended in a tragic way.

The effect is often humorous but you may come away a bit weepy and certain that you won’t have seen anything like it before.

14. Samobor

Between Zagreb and the Slovenian border is a delightful medieval town that has been a tourist destination for almost 200 years.

A lot of the architecture in Samobor is from the baroque era, and if you visit the town’s museum you’ll enter a building where the composer Franz Liszt spent a night in 1846.

Samobor is ringed by wooded hills and in no more than ten minutes you can make your way up Tepec Hill to see the ruins of Samobor Castle.

Much of this fortress remains in place and you can easily trace its moat, outer walls and gatehouse.

15. Karlovac

Around 45 minutes southwest of Zagreb is a splendid little town that was built from nothing in the 16th century to stand as an Austrian outpost against the Ottoman advance.

Karlovac represented state-of-the-art military planning, as you’ll be able to see in the Old Town. The citadel, where much of the town’s heritage remains, still bears the outline of its innovative six-pointed star defensive system, even though the original walls are long gone.

In Croatia Karlovac is known as the “City of Parks”, and this is partly because the trenches and moats that once surrounded the city walls have never been developed, so you can stretch your legs in the pasture, forest and gardens left behind.

15 Best Things to Do in Zagreb (Croatia):

Jelačić Square
Go out in Tkalčićeva Street
Dolac Market
Statue of Marija Jurić Zagorka
Mimara Museum
Archaeological Museum
Pick up a Licitar
Lenuci Horseshoe
Museum of Broken Relationships

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Zagreb Cathedral - Things to do in Zagreb

Ultimate Zagreb Itinerary – Things to Do in Zagreb in 2 Days

Planning a trip to Zagreb? Well, you need to look no further! Here, we have the perfect 2 days Zagreb itinerary for you which covers the best things to do in Zagreb and the most useful travel tips. Two days in Zagreb is the perfect time to see the city’s main sights without hurrying. However, if you’re travelling on a tight schedule, one day in Zagreb is enough given that most of Zagreb must see sights are out of bounds for close-up visits whilst renovations take place following the 2020 earthquake.

Museum of Arts and Crafts Zagreb- Things to do in Zagreb

Zagreb is the capital and biggest city of Croatia with a population of about 800,000, located in the country’s northwestern region near River Sava and Medvednica mountain.

The city is often overlooked in favour of the country’s coastal towns and islands.

After many trips to Croatia, we finally got to visit Zagreb this summer. I have to say Zagreb was a pleasant surprise. We liked Zagreb for its charming architecture, manageable size which made it easy to explore on foot, friendly locals, small weirdly amusing museums and chilled vibe.

Visiting Zagreb was a lovely break from other places in Croatia that can get very busy during the summer.

Ban Jelacic Square Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

We can attest, Zagreb is a fantastic tourist destination which makes for a perfect city break. It’s worth visiting for its varied and fascinating history and cultural heritage visible in the city’s architecture, museums, food and drink culture.

The city grew from a Roman settlement and over the centuries had many cultures presiding over it. Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, Grand Austro-Hungarian-inspired buildings, large open squares and parks dominate the centre while its outer parts, south of the Sava River, feature architecture representative of the Socialist era.

Art Pavilion Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

Zagreb’s strong coffee, beer and food culture echoes Eastern, Western and Mediterranean tones. Luckily, Zagreb is not an expensive city to eat out and has some really cool places to explore its culinary scene.

On top of that, Zagreb is famous for hosting some of the best festivals in Croatia. There is no doubt that the city’s month-long Zagreb Advent festival takes the lead, however, you’re sure to run into an exciting festival no matter what time of the year you visit Zagreb.

Festival of Lights Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

There is no better way than to plan your trip to Zagreb around one of the countless festivals hosted in the city throughout the year. They’re the perfect places to absorb the city’s vibrant culture.

Without any further delay, here is our suggested Zagreb 2 day itinerary .

Tip: Don’t take this Zagreb two-day itinerary as an absolute. This guide is there to give you a general idea of what to do in Zagreb in two days. By all means, amend the itinerary as you wish, focus on moving at your own pace and keeping things fun.

What to Do in Zagreb in 2 Days

Day 1 – upper town.

NB – Most of Zagreb tourist attractions are located within two of the city’s 17 districts namely the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and Lower Town (Donji Grad). The most practical way to explore Zagreb is to break up the two sections and divide your time to each area accordingly.

1. Take a Zagreb Walking Tour

Kick things off by taking a Zagreb Walking Tour . It’s the best introduction to Zagreb as it will give you a quick overview of the city’s unique history and culture from a local perspective. Zagreb local guides are witty, informative and excited to share the best spots to try be it local hangouts, food or drink.

Upper Town Street - Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

Tours in Zagreb usually start from Ban Jelačić Square , Zagreb’s central square. They bring you along the Upper Town where the city’s famous landmarks such as Zagreb Cathedral , the red-tiled St Mark’s Church , the city’s vibrant Tkalčićeva Street and what is left of the old medieval fortifications are located.

Skalinska Street - Things to do in Zagreb

Walking tours of varying themes, some free, are available in Zagreb covering areas such as the history of the city, the Croatian Homeland War, local street art, food and drink scene.

Zagreb Tours Worth Checking Out.

Free Spirit – Free Walking Tour of Old Town
Communism and Croatian Homeland War Tour – (Ideal if you wish to delve into Croatia’s time in Yugoslavia, the 90s Homeland War and World War 2 including the famous Grič Tunnel, a one-time civilian shelter.

Small Group Zagreb Walking Tour with Funicular Ride
Zagreb Street Art Private Walking Tour
Food Tour Zagreb (ideal if you’re keen to explore Zagreb’s diverse food scene.
Meet the Monuments and Sculptures of Zagreb Tour ( Explore Zagreb through the endless statues of great Croats found in its streets.

2. Explore Josip Jelačić Square

Josip Jelačić Square is the main square in Zagreb city centre, located just below the Upper Town. It’s a popular meeting place for locals, tourists and the city’s public transport system. The square is an ideal spot to use to orient yourself as many roads and trams pass across Jelačić Square.

Ban Josip Jelacic Square - Things to do in Zagreb

Ban Jelačić Square dates back to the 17th century when it was first used as a marketplace. It got its name during the 19th century in honour of Ban Josip Jelačić , a military marshal who’s credited for making positive changes in the region. An equestrian statue dedicated to Jelačić is undoubtedly the square’s star attraction.

Ban Jelačić Statue - Things to do in Zagreb

Over the years, the square has largely evolved into a public gathering place where social and cultural events take place. Among other things, the square is a top venue for the city’s famous Zagreb Advent, sporting celebrations and music concerts.

We were lucky to be in Zagreb during the Croatia and the Netherlands UEFA 2023 Nations League Finals as we got to watch the match on a big screen hosted at the square and enjoyed the party atmosphere though unfortunately, Croatia didn’t win.

Manduševac Fountain Ban Jelacic Square - Things to follow in Zagreb

Plan to spend some time at Jelačić Square as there is always some sort of entertaining event happening or else just take a wonder admiring the colourful elegant buildings, fountains and warm crowds that give the square its vibrant atmosphere.

3. Stop by Zagreb Cathedral

The twin Gothic towers of Zagreb Cathedral , also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, have dominated the Croatian capital skyline for the last century. At 108 metres, the Cathedral is the second tallest structure in the country.

This Roman Cathedral church has seen its fair share of history. It was initially built during the early 13th century, however, has had numerous renovations due to mediaeval wars, fire and earthquake damage.

Zagreb Cathedral - Three Statues - things to do in Zagreb

The Cathedral obtained its current Neo-Gothic style from restorative works led by German-born architect Herman Bolle following the Great Zagreb earthquake of 1880.

Unfortunately, Zagreb is vulnerable to earthquakes. The city was hit by another earthquake in 2020 causing damage to many of the historical buildings in the city including the Cathedral.

Damaged Earthquake Restoration- Zagreb Cathedral - Things to do in Zagreb

Currently, the Cathedral’s interior and immediate surroundings are off-limits to the public. We still suggest that you visit as we thought the Cathedral and its scaffolding, interestingly, continue to impress.

Additionally, Zagreb Cathedral is located at Kapitol which together with the adjacent Gradec , forms the city’s well-preserved old town known as the Upper Town (Gornji Grad).

Fountain - Kaptol Zagreb Things to do in Zagreb

This is a place not to miss whilst sightseeing in Zagreb as many architecturally charming buildings and cobblestone streets with mediaeval roots and baroque features can be found around the area.

4. Shop at Dolac Market

Dolac Market has existed since 1930 giving locals and visitors to the city a chance to shop for local fresh produce, meats, fish, flowers and various other products from the region.

Lavender - Dolac Market - Things to do in Zagreb

The market is ideally located on an open square, just above the steps from Jelačić Square and a short walk from the Cathedral. It’s hard to miss as the stalls in the outer sections of Dolac Market are covered by unique vivid red umbrellas.

It really is one of the best places to visit in Zagreb to sample authentic Croatian products from the region and soak up the local atmosphere. We were delighted with the fresh and juicy cherries, peaches and strawberries we got at the market.

Dolac Market Fruits - Things to do in Zagreb

They were the perfect treats to quench thirst in Zagreb’s sweltering heat.

Don’t miss the meat, fish and cheese section, located indoors on a lower level, if they are your kind of thing.

Opens every day from 6.30 am to 2 pm .

5. Walk through the Stone Gate

The Stone Gate , known locally as Kamenita Vrata , is one of the few remaining traces of Zagreb’s fortification system from the 13th century still in use though it has had many restorative works.

Stone Gate - Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

Historically, Gradec existed as a separate settlement from Kaptol and was fortified with gates, walls and towers. However, as it grew and the threats of attacks declined, the defensive structures were pulled down leaving out the Stone Gate and the nearby Lostrak Tower.

Stone Gate Passage - Things to do in Zagreb

The Stone Gate is considered a sacred place in Zagreb as well as being an important historical structure. It’s believed that a fire in 1731 pretty much destroyed the gate and buildings that were nearby except for an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary with Christ the Child.

Our Lady of Kamenita Vrata - Things to do in Zagreb

This image is highly revered as a baroque gated altar devoted to the Virgin Mary and a small prayer space has been built in the gate’s passage. It’s an unusual place as quite a lot of people stop by to pray, light candles and make offerings.

6. Stop by St Mark’s Church

St. Mark’s Church is really gorgeous and lives up to the hype. Its colourful tiled roof is easily the most recognisable symbol of Zagreb.

St Mark's Church Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

The church is one of the oldest historical buildings in Zagreb with roots dating back to the early 13th century. Similar to other buildings from that era, St. Marks has had numerous reconstructions though it has retained some of its original Romanesque and Gothic features.

The church’s current form is credited to Herman Bolle’s last renovation works in 1880. Hermann Bollé adopted the Historicist style to create a tiled roof pattern depicting the coat of arms of Zagreb, Triune Kingdom of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia.

South Portal - St Mark's - Things to do in Zagreb

St Mark’s Church’s Gothic south portal features detailed intricate carvings of biblical themes. It’s said to be one of the most valuable portals in Central Europe. Unfortunately, St. Mark’s is still undergoing renovations following the 2020 earthquake, so up-close visits are on hold.

However, the highlight of this church has always been its facade, so do stop by and check it out.

Tip: St Mark’s Church is located on St Mark’s Square in the Upper Town. It’s in the midst of some charming buildings in the city worth a quick look like Croatia’s Parliament and Government buildings and the Old City Hall.

7. Explore the Museum of Broken Relationships

Price: adults €7 , students €5.50.

The Museum of Broken Relationships is one of the absolute Zagreb sights to see. It’s up there for us on our list of the best experiences we had in Zagreb.

Museum of Broken Relationships - Things to do in Zagreb

This unusual museum came about after two Zagreb artists who after their own relationship ended decided to create a space to exhibit personal items left behind when relationships fail.

Museum of Broken Relationships- Heart Break Story - Things to do in Zagreb

It is a one-of-a-kind museum as its collection consists of objects contributed by people from around the world. Every object comes with a heart-touching story about the failed relationship.

The collection at the Museum of Broken Relationships evokes many emotions as it includes many different types of relationships. You’re guaranteed to laugh, feel sad and reminisce on your own past experiences.

It’s a small museum, but really packs a punch!

8. Take in the City Views from Lotrščak Tower

Price: adults €3 , children €2.

Take the challenge to go up Lotrščak Tower’s spiral staircase to enjoy a beautiful 360-degree view of Zagreb City.

Lotrščak Tower initially existed as a defensive tower built during the 13th century as part of the overall Gradec fortifications.

Like many other fortifications of that time, the tower has been repurposed and now functions as a museum with its deck providing an open viewing platform of the city’s skyline.

St Mark's Church - Things to do in Zagreb

Some historic remnants have been preserved, in particular, the 19th-century Grič Cannon which to this day fires daily at 12 noon to mark midday.

9. Ride the Zagreb Funicular

Price: one way €0,66.

The Zagreb Funicular is one of the best things to see in Zagreb. Among other things, the quaint Funicular is the oldest mode of transport in Zagreb and the shortest cable ride in the world spanning just 66 metres.

A single ride takes just 64 seconds from Tomićeva Street station in Lower Town to Strossmayer Promenade.

Zagreb Funicular - Things to do in Zagreb

It’s also an accessible means to move between the Upper and Lower towns as the two places are located at different elevations.

10. Stroll Strossmayer Promenade

Strossmayer Promenade for most Zagreb locals the most picturesque walkway in the city center. The promenade gets its name from a 19th-century Croatian Bishop and cultural proponent Josip Juraj Strossmayer.

It’s a short uphill promenade that stretches from Tomićeva Street in the Lower Town to the area around the Lotrščak Tower in the Upper Town offering an alternative travel route between the two districts.

Zagreb City Skyline - Things to do in Zagreb

The promenade’s upper part offers beautiful views of Zagreb city’s red roofs and Zagreb Cathedral twin towers. Wild chestnut trees, various forms of street art and sculptures, food stalls, cafes and restaurants add a special touch to the promenade’s ambience.

Zagreb Red Roofs - Things to do in Zagreb

Strossmayer Promenade regularly hosts events and festivals all seasons, so check it out, especially if you’re lucky enough to be in town for Zagreb Advent.

11. Check the Museum of Selfie and Memories

Prices: adults €8 , students €6 , family card €20.

The Museum of Selfie and Memories should take a top place on your list if you love posing and taking awesome pictures, especially for your Instagram.

It really is one of the coolest things to do in Zagreb for young adults, so if there are some among you don’t miss it.

Selfie and Memories Museum Zagreb Things to do in Zagreb

I visited the museum with my son and his friend and we all had a blast posing and taking pictures behind varied props and backdrops of Croatian history and great Croatian inventors’ themes as well as modern culture.

Museum of Selfie and Memories - Things to do in Zagreb

It’s a small museum which offers a fun break from sightseeing.

Location : Pavla Radića St, just around the corner from Ban Jelačić Square.

Good to know

Zagreb’s Upper town is also home to two highly reviewed museums worth checking out namely Zagreb City Museum (suited if keen to learn how Zagreb has evolved over the centuries) and the Croatian Museum of Naive Art (suited if curious about Croatian naive art from the 20th century).

12. Stroll Tkalčićeva Street

Tkalčićeva Street is Zabreb’s most famous and vibrant pedestrian street in the Upper Town, a short walk from Jelačić Square and around the corner from Dolac Market.

Tkalčićeva Street - Things to do in Zagreb

In years past, Tkalčićeva St didn’t always exist as it is. During medieval times, the street was covered by a stream that divided Kapitol and Gradec. The stream sustained the city’s watermilling industry but came with bloody feuds.

Tkalčićeva St. emerged in the 19th century when the stream was covered and houses and businesses were built along it.

In its early years, the homes on Tkalčićeva St were mostly brothels that were publicly advertised though discreetly, by placing red lanterns outside. It’s believed that Tkalčićeva St. is the first Red Light District in Europe .

Writer Zagorka Statue - Tkalčićeva St - Things to do in Zagreb

Nowadays, Tkalčićeva St. is an attractive street, full to the brim with colourful buildings (some of which give off some Alpine vibes) housing outdoor cafes perfect for people-watching, bars and pubs that are a hub for Zagreb nightlife as well as restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines.

It’s quite a popular spot in Zagreb with both locals and tourists who come to enjoy its diverse offerings and lively atmosphere.

Zagreb is one of the few cities that have retained the tradition of lighting its gas lanterns in the Upper Town manually. Keep out for the lamplighters as you explore Tkalčićeva St. in the evenings, you might be lucky enough to witness one of the city’s treasured ancient radiations.

What to do in Zagreb Day 2 – Lower Town

1. stroll through zrinjevac park.

Zrinjevac Park (Nikola Šubić Zrinski Square) is one of Zagbreb’s series of connected parks and squares locally known as the “Green Horseshoe” due to their layout which takes the shape of the letter “u”.

Many of the city’s cultural institutions are located around the parks and squares, making combining sightseeing with spending time in relaxed beautifully decorated green spaces that bit easier.

Zrinjevac Park, located a short walking distance from Jelačić Square in the Lower Town, is in my view the most attractive of them all. The park is the first of the Green Horseshoe created during the 19th century by Croatian urban planner Milan Lenuci.

Zrinjevac Park Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

It’s best known for its gorgeous flower beds, green and lush lawns and tree-lined avenues. There is a charming 19th-century music pavilion that regularly hosts music performances, decorative sculptures and historic time and weather instruments.

Zrinjevac Park is a regular venue for festivals and various events of all seasons. If you’re lucky enough to be in Zagreb at Christmas, be sure to stop by as it becomes magical with all the festive decorations.

There are endless festivals in Zagreb. We were fortunate to be in Zagreb during the city’s first-ever Asian Street Food Festival held in Strossmayer Park, located directly across from Zrinjevac Park.

Asian Street Food Festival Zagreb Things to do in Zagreb

We got to indulge in some really good food whilst surrounded by beautiful parks, people and architecture.

Be sure to check out the parks in Zagreb as they are some of the best places to socialise in the city.

2. Check the Archeological Museum Zagreb

If you’re a lover of history, the Archaeological Museum Zagreb , located next to Zrinjevac Park, is worth a stop. Its highly regarded permanent collection covers prehistoric, Egyptian, Greek and Roman as well as mediaeval times.

Bear in mind the museum suffered damage in the last earthquake as a result many of its collection is currently not exhibited due to some ongoing restorations.

Archaeological Museum Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

This museum is housed in a 19th-century palace which is really pretty and worth seeing, so do give it a quick look while in the area.

3. Visit the Mimara Museum

For art lovers or anyone who loves to explore, the Mimara Museum is not to be missed. It’s housed in a colossal neo-Renaissance-styled building located on Roosevelt Square in the Lower Town. The museum exhibits over 3,700 artworks from pre-historic times up to the 20th century donated by the Croatian art collector Ante Topić Mimara.

If you wish to visit, check the museum’s website beforehand as it’s closed for renovations due to the earthquake but is promised to be opened soon.

4. Visit the Croatian National Theatre

A trip to Zagreb without a visit to the iconic Croatian National Theatre , known locally as HNK Zagreb, is no visit at all. The theatre is probably the best landmark in the city representative of the city’s rich Austo-Hungarian-inspired heritage.

Croatian National Theatre - Things to do in Zagreb

It’s located in the Lower Town on Republic of Croatia Square , one of the city’s largest and beautiful squares which form part of the city’s Green Horseshoe.

The colossal yellow-tinted neoclassical-style theatre was built by famous Viennese-based theatre architects Fellner and Helmer. It was officially opened in 1895 by Emperor Franz Josef of Austria during his first visit to the country.

The theatre has remained an important cultural institution in the country where you can enjoy top-quality opera, ballet, drama, musicals and more.

Balconies - Croatian National Theatre - Things to do in Zagreb

Take the theatre’s guided tour , among other things to see the 765-seat auditorium which is decorated with a splendid ceiling with hanging chandelier and golden walls.

If you appreciate sculpture art, don’t miss the “Well of Life” sculpture (1905) by the celebrated Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović, situated right in front of the theatre.

Well of Life Sculpture - Things to do in Zagreb

Looking for things to do in Zagreb at night? See a show ! The theatre offers more than 220 performances every year.

5. Explore the Botanical Garden of Zagreb

Price: adults €2 , students €1.

Make a quick stop at the Botanical Garden of Zagreb if you have a fondness for nature and gardens. It’s one of the parks that make up the city’s Green Horseshoe, conveniently located near to Zagreb train station.

Botanical Garden Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

The Zagreb Botanical Garden was established in 1889 as an educational space for the Faculty of Science at the University of Zagreb and later opened to the public in 1891.

You have 5 hectares inhabited by over 10, 000 plant species from across the globe including some indigenous varieties to explore.

Botanical Garden of Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

The plants are organised in themed gardens, with walkaways, bridges and lakes which makes for a relaxed stroll whilst taking in some inspiration for your own gardening activities back home.

6. Visit the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum

Price: adults €4 , students €3.

Add a trip to the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum if you’re looking for things to do in Zagreb for young adults or just love to discover.

Nikola Tesla Technical Museum - Things to do in Zagreb

The museum is located in the Lower Town, close to many of Zagreb’s attractions such as the Croatian National Theatre and Botanical Gardens. It’s housed in a 1949 timber exhibition hall which was originally built to host the Zagreb Fair.

Nikola Tesla is one of Croatia’s great inventors who made advances in the development of modern alternating electrical power systems.

The museum is dedicated to highlighting Tesla’s innovations and ideas as well as many other science and technological advances related to energy, transport and communication.

Exhibits to see at this museum include a Nikola Tesla Demonstration Cabinet where various scientific demonstrations are presented, a lifesize 20th-century mineral and oil model mine, historic vehicles including a 1924 tram, fire fighting and military transport.

Nikola Tesla Technical Museum - Exhibition Room - Things to do in Zagreb

Join the museum’s guided tour if you fancy an in-depth look at exciting science and technological innovations over the years.

7. Visit the Chocolate Museum Zagreb

Price: adults €9 , children €6.50.

The Chocolate Museum Zagreb is the perfect stop for a sweet adventure in Zagreb.

Chocolate Museum Exhibition Room - Things to do in Zagreb

A 5-minute stroll from Ban Jelacic Square brings you to this little museum where you can delve into the history of chocolate over the different time periods from the ancient Mesoamericans all the way up to the present day.

Six chic periodic-themed rooms come with chocolate-related artefacts, informative displays, tasting spots with variations of chocolate to try, smell and touch and finish off with a chocolate praline-making demonstration.

Chocolate - Chocolate Museum Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

A highlight of the museum is its ticket which comes with chocolate samples to devour as you stroll through the exhibition rooms.

8. Check out the Museum of Illusions

Price: adults €9 , discounts for students & families.

The Museum of Illusions Zagreb is a brainchild of two Zagreb locals that has spread to several cities both in Croatia and worldwide. It’s a small museum, located in the Lower Town along Zagbreb’s Illica’s street, the city’s long main street.

Museum of Illusions Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

A visit to the Museum of Illusions Zagreb is one experience in Zagreb that is guaranteed to send excitement levels to the maximum. It’s one of the most fun and unique things to do in Zagreb which makes for an unforgettable experience, especially for families, groups or couples.

The museum’s collection of 70 interactive exhibits is designed to take your senses on a spin by creating fascinating optical illusions.

“The Anti-Gravity Room” exhibit at the museum creates an illusion that your body is defying gravity and moving at odd angles while the “Head on a Tray” creates an illusion that your body has separated from your head and is served on a tray.

Head on Tray Illusion - Things to do in Zagreb

Another highlight here is the “Mirror Room” which creates an illusion of an infinite number of yourself.

All the exhibits at the Museum of Illusions make for a perfect photo opportunity, so don’t miss it if this is your kind of fun.

Things to Do in Zagreb with More Time

There are plenty of other things to do in Zagreb if you’re in the city with more time. The following are very popular Zagreb attractions but a little bit further out of the city.

1. Explore Mirogoj Cemetery

Price: free.

Mirogoj Cemetery is often seen on many lists of Europe’s most beautiful cemeteries. It’s the city’s central cemetery located in the Upper Town, about 3km from the city centre.

Mirogoj Cemetery Entrance - Things to do in Zagreb

The cemetery was designed by Herman Bole , the German architect behind the restoration of Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark’s Church after the 1880 earthquake. It officially opened in 1879 as a city cemetery welcoming multi-denominational burials.

The cemetery is known for its neoclassical-styled long arcades, an impressive arched entrance surrounded by thick walls topped by green domes.

Mirogoj Cemetery Arcades - Things to do in Zagreb

A stroll through the cemetery’s tree-lined avenues and arcades reveals endless tombs and mausoleums, some of which are quite remarkable and are final resting places for great Croatian citizens including the architect Herman Bole.

There are many monuments in honour of war victims throughout the country’s history, sculptures (some designed by Ivan Mestrovic) and various sepulchral pieces of art.

Monument for Bleiburg Victims - Things to do in Zagreb

Choose to visit Mirogoj Cemetery with a guide to explore its fascinating history and its artistic treasures. If visiting alone, check out this guide by Zagreb’s Tourist Board for easy navigation.

Getting to Mirogoj Cemetery

Zagreb Bus line 106 leaves from Zagreb Cathedral to Mirogoj and the journey takes about 15 mins.

Opens : Daily 6 am to 8 pm (April to Oct), 7.30 to 6 pm (Nov – March)

2. Explore Maksimir Park

Marksimir Park is the oldest and largest park in Zagreb covering 316 hectares. The park was one of the first public parks when it opened in 1794 in all of south-eastern Europe. It’s located on the outskirts of Zagreb, but easy enough to reach by public transport.

This park is one of the top free things to do in Zagreb if you’re longing for some outdoor fun or just want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Maksimir Park - Pavilion - Things to do in Zagreb

It boasts large spaces of landscaped gardens ideal for relaxing with a picnic or a book, natural forested areas home to some wildlife, walking, running or cycling trails, five artificial lakes, a children’s playground and historic monuments and charming buildings.

It’s also home to the city’s zoo, Zagreb Zoo , which is located in the southern part of the park.

Zagreb Zoo Maksimir Park - Things to do in Zagreb

If you’re an animal lover or travelling with kids consider combining a stroll through Maksimir Park with a visit to Zagreb Zoo and explore its inhabitants which consist of over 7 000 animals of varying species from all over the world.

Plan your visit to Maksimir Park here .

3. Spend a day at Lake Jarun

We discovered Lake Jarun through our friendly tax driver who spoke so highly of it and couldn’t recommend it enough for us to add to our top list of things to do in Zagreb.

The lake, located 6 km from the city centre in the southwestern area of Zagreb, is a big hit with locals and tourists in the know. It’s a man-made lake connected to the Sava River which was initially developed to host the World Student Games in 1987.

Over the years, Jarun Lake has become a centre for outdoor activities and entertainment in Zagreb especially during the summer months.

Cycling Trails - Jarun Lake - Things to do in Zagreb

The lake’s high-quality water is perfect for many water sports such as swimming, kayaking and rowing. Sporting fields, skate parks and walking trails are just as popular for sports enthusiasts.

And if you’re peckish, the lakesides are awash with food stalls, cafes, restaurants and bars. You can also, choose to pack for a barbeque or picnic if you’d rather focus on relaxing by the lake.

Lake Jarun Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

Jarun Lake is a venue for many festivals and its bars and nightclubs are some of the most popular in town, so if you’re in search of Zagreb nightlife, do check them out.

Getting to Jarun Lake

It’s easier to get to Jarun Lake by car (paid parking is available), Uber or taxi. Alternatively, get tram lines 5 and 7 from the city centre.

4. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you’ve got one day to spare in Zagreb, be sure to take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park .

Plitvice Lakes National Park - Things to do in Zagreb

This spectacular natural wonder is located about 2 hours drive from Zagreb by car. It’s a bit of a trek but, it so definitely the day trip from Zagreb.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO Heritage Site since 1979, is truly amazing and has to be seen to be believed.

Gradinsko Lake - Plitvice Lakes National Park - Things to do in Zagreb

The park is spread across 30,000 hectares and features 16 interconnected cascading lakes and waterfalls of remarkably blue and green water surrounded by a stunning karst landscape and a dense lush forest.

A network of wooden trails of varying lengths and electric boats in the park offers an opportunity to navigate the park and admire its magical landscape.

Plitvice Lakes National Park - Cascading Lakes

Getting to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Hire a car in Zagreb and drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park if you can as it gives you the freedom to decide the length of your visit and options to make stops at other places of interest as you wish.

Check Discover Cars to compare your car hire options in Zagreb.

You can also opt to join a small group Plitvice Lakes Tour from Zagreb.

5. Take a Day trip to Lake Bled

Taking a day trip to Lake Bled in Slovenia from Zagreb was one of the highlights of our trip to Zagreb. We just can’t recommend it enough. It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Slovenia and rightfully so.

Bled Castle Slovenia - Things to do in Zagreb

This glacial lake is located in the Julian Alps northwest of Slovenia next to Bled Town, about 50km from the country’s capital Ljubljana. It sits in a pretty location surrounded by mountains, stunning lush forest and on the foothills of the medieval Bled Castle.

The tear-shaped Bled Island with its charming Gothic Church of the Mother of God on the Lake and Tower in the middle of the magnificent turquoise lake make for a jaw-dropping vista.

Lake Bled Island - Things to do in Zagreb

There is so much fun to be had in Lake Bled from taking rides on a traditional pletna (rowing wooden boat) across the lake to Bled Island to taking scenic walks around the lake (the 6km long lap takes about 1.5 hrs) and hiking up to Bled Castle for even better views of the lake and the Alps in the distance.

Lake Bled Slovenia - Things to do in Zagreb

If you prefer more time in the water the calm waters of Lake Bled are perfect for wild swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Just remember to bring along a swimsuit so you don’t miss out on fun.

If you do feel peckish, the Park Cafe at Hotel Bled on the banks of Lake Bled, is the perfect spot for a casual bite to eat and to try Lake Bled’s famous original Bled cream cake (kremšnita) whilst taking in spectacular views.

Lake Bled Cream Cake - Things to do in Zagreb

Tip: Start your day tour of Lake Bled early and squeeze in a visit to Vintgar Gorge . It’s a stunning 1.6 km gorge surrounded by picturesque rocky cliffs in Gorge, a municipality located about 4.5km from Bled Town.

Vintgar Gorge - Vintgar - Things to do in Zagreb

We made the trip to Lake Bled with a rental car from Zagreb and the journey took about 2 hours each way.

Consider visiting Lake Bled with the many available small group tours from Zagreb if you’re travelling by public transport. Ljubljana and Lake Bled Tour from Zagreb

Zagreb Food and Drink Spots to Try (Upper Town)

Otto and Frank (Tkalčićeva Street) – visit for a really good breakfast and brunch.

Otto and Frank Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

Pod Zidom Bistro & Wine Bar (Pod Zidom St) – Visit this chic restaurant to enjoy delicious Croatian dishes made with fresh and high-quality produce paired with some really good local wines.
La Štruk (Skalinska St) – Single dish restaurant serving Štrukli (a Croatian dish popular in Zagreb consisting of a dough filled with cream cheese with either savoury or sweet additions and baked or boiled. They do it well and they have a really pretty patio, so don’t bother going elsewhere.

La Struk, Zagreb - Things to do in Zagreb

Oaza Joyful Kitchen (Pavla Radića St) – Visit to enjoy cheap vegan street food.
Valhalla Metal Bar (Radića Street) – Visit to explore Zabreb’s craft beer scene. They have an impressive craft beer selection as well as regular beers.

Food and Drink Spots to Try (Lower Town)

Heritage – Croatian Street Food & Shop (Petrinjska St) – A small restaurant to visit to enjoy a variety of affordable quality Croatian dishes. They stock Croatian specialities perfect to buy to bring home.

Heritage - Croatian Street Food & Shop - Things to do in Zagreb

Vinodol (10 Nikole Tesle St)- A family-friendly restaurant ideal for enjoying traditional Croatian dishes given a modern twist.
In the Yard – Cogito Coffee – Delicious coffee, for us, is one of the best hidden gems in Zagreb.
Quahwa (Nikole Tesle St) – The coffee here is really good, and they do pastries as well.

Korica Zagreb (Preradovićeva St) – A small cute bakery with delicious pastries and coffee, perfect for breakfast.

Zagreb Travel Tips

Getting to zagreb .

Flying – Zagreb Airport (Franjo Tuđman Airport), located 15 km from the city centre is the best airport to fly into Zagreb. The airport has the most connections with other European cities with some direct international flights.

You’ve got a choice of a Shuttle bus ( €8 35 -40 mins ) to Zagreb Train Station or a local Public bus , line 290 ( 90c – 35mins ). We took an Uber and paid €20 for the 30-minute ride.

Train – Zagreb is serviced by a train station which links it to many cities in Europe. See Zagreb train tips here .

Car Hire in Zagreb

If you’re looking to hire a car for your day trips, consider collecting the car in the city centre as you probably won’t need it to get around Zagreb.

DiscoverCars is handy for quickly comparing car hire prices.

Getting Around Zagreb

Whilst Zagreb is Croatia’s capital, its main centre where the historic parts of the city are located is relatively tiny. Most of Zagreb’s attractions are close to each other and easily reached on foot, so you shouldn’t need to drive.

Zagreb Funicular – provides a quick ride to move between the Upper and Lower areas of the city centre (1-minute ride – 0.66€).
Public Transport – Offered through an extensive tram and bus (ZET – Zagreb Electric Tram) system, connecting the city centre and residential neighbourhoods. It’s the most affordable means to get around in Zagreb.
Taxis – are widely available, metred and relatively cheap.

Where to stay in Zagreb

Booking.com and Airbnb are my favourite resources for booking hotels in Croatia. Here are some options worth checking out:

Esplanade Hotel – a 5-star historic hotel initially built for Orient Express passengers. It’s famous for hosting high-profile clients. It’s situated directly across from the central train station.
Best Western Premier Hotel Astoria – A mid-range Hotel located close to the Zagreb Train Station and about a 10-minute walk to Ban Jelačić Square. The hotel is housed in a 1932 building but its interior is modern and tastefully decorated.
Swanky Mint Hostel – Budget-friendly hostel with a bar and pool. It’s located just an 8-minute walk from the main square.

Enjoy Zagreb! Do get in touch if you need help. I will be glad to help!

Tip: Read on for the Best Places to Visit in Croatia on a Road Trip including the most useful travel tips.

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A Travel Guide To Zagreb Croatia

The capital city and the largest town in Croatia, Zagreb is Croatia’s economic, political and educational center. With about 800.000 residents in the metro area of Zagreb, Zagreb is one of the smallest European capital cities.

It’s a typical central European city, with an interesting although turbulent history and a nice and laid-back vibe. The first mention of Zagreb dates back to 1094 .

Zagreb Travel Guide: Plan Your Visit To Zagreb, Croatia, Illustration

Zagreb originally existed as two different towns – Kaptol which was inhabited mainly by the clergy, and which houses Zagreb Cathedral; and Gradec inhabited mainly by farmers and merchants. These two towns were united in 1851 by ban Josip Jelačić after whom the main city square is named. Tkalčićeva Street , today famous for its small historic houses featuring numerous bars, at that time was actually a creek.

In recent years Zagreb has become an appealing tourist destination so it is no surprise the city attracts more and more visitors every year. This has resulted in the opening of a number of hotels, hostels and private apartments, interesting restaurants, and lots of different activities .

Table of Contents

Below you’ll find the Zagreb map. Zagreb is located in continental Croatia (in the northwest of the country), on the shores of the River Sava, and at the southern slopes of the Medvednica mountain. Vienna (Austria) is 370 km away from Zagreb, Budapest (Hungary) 345 km, and Ljubljana (Slovenia) 140 km.

Croatia’s well-developed state roads and motorways connect Zagreb to other regions of Croatia. The distance from Zagreb to Rovinj is 260 km and it takes 2:30 hours of driving; Split is 410 km away and a 4-hour drive, Dubrovnik is 600 km away and about 6 hour drive (depending on border crossing in Neum) while Osijek is 280 km and 3 hours of driving from Zagreb.

The best time to visit Zagreb

Whenever you visit Zagreb you will find something interesting to see and experience. But, the best time to visit Zagreb is in spring and early summer.

In early to mid-August, the temperature can be quite high and many locals do take their annual holidays at this time. You might find some of the local designers’ shops and bars closed during this period of the year.

Don’t forget that Zagreb can be very interesting in December when Christmas markets and activities take place in many of the city center’s squares.

Reasons to visit Zagreb

You won’t visit France without visiting Paris, or visit Italy, without visiting Rome. So, being the capital town should be enough reason to visit Zagreb, even if only for a day. However, there are more reasons to visit Zagreb, and you might even decide to stay longer there. Many times I have heard people saying how positively surprised they were with Zagreb, and how they wished to have stayed longer there.

Zagreb is an unassuming, cool, small, and easily walkable city with lots of parks, strong bar culture, and friendly locals. Below are a few other reasons to visit the town!

Experience continental Croatia

Croatia is most famous for its beautiful coast but why not experience something different? Zagreb is a small central European city so you can experience a part of the history of the Hapsburg monarchy without much walking.

Zagrebacki strukli and other yummy food

Zagrebacki strukli (cottage cheese strudel which can be cooked or baked, salty or sweet) is known as Zagreb’s signature dish, and it will keep you well-fed if you eat it as a main course for lunch or dinner. Other traditional dishes include duck with mlinci (a special kind of pasta), sir i vrhnje (cottage cheese with cream), krempite (custard cream slices) and orahnjaca (a traditional walnut roll).

Just to make sure there is no misunderstanding, we are not talking about wild parties. But there is something charming when you walk through Tkalčićeva street and the bars are full of people, or to have a glass of wine or beer on Stross (Upper Town).

Free Attractions

Dolac market , Mirogoj Cemetery, Upper town, Zagreb Cathedral… All of this and much more charge nothing for visiting and enjoying.

Visitors love it!

Tourists say that they love Zagreb because it is not expensive, the locals are friendly, the city is clean and all the city’s sights can easily be explored on foot or bicycle.

What to do in Zagreb

For a full list of things to do in Zagreb, head here . For a taste of things to do in Zagreb, stick here with us where we list just a couple of things to do in Zagreb.

Explore the Old Town

You can walk through the Upper town any time of day (but bear in mind that some of the attractions have their working hours). From April until October every Saturday from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. the main historical characters from Zagreb past walk by and you can have your photo taken with them. Catch the short funicular ride from Ilica up to the Old Town and definitely make your way back down through the only remaining gate from the Old Town, the Stone Gate .

Visit Dolac market and Mirogoj Cemetery

Dolac is the most visited and famous market in Zagreb located in the center of the City. It is vibrant, noisy, and lively, and the best place to feel a local vibe, and buy fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, meat, and fish.

Mirogoj Cemetery is another location that tourists like to visit. It is a heritage site famous for its arcades, pavilions, and tombs which are real monuments of architecture.

Take a break in Zrinjevac

Zagreb’s most popular park is loved by locals and tourists alike. If you are tired of sightseeing just go to Zrinjevac and lie down on the grass. Don’t forget that from April until October every Saturday from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. there are Promenade Concerts in Zrinjevac. You can also put on historical clothing and have your photo taken. During winter Zrinjevac has a wonderful entertainment program.

Have a coffee on Saturday morning

To have a coffee on Saturday morning in Zagreb is a custom of locals and a must-do thing. On the so-called Špica (the rush hour) all locals from different parts of the town come to the center of the city to drink coffee in one of the bars in Bogoviceva or Tkalciceva Street. Actually, anywhere in the center where you find a free table sit and observe a river of people. To truly fit in with the locals, dress well!

Get your fill of exercise in the park

For all of those who like to stay active, Zagreb has a few fitness parks in which you can exercise. You can visit the one in Maksimir Park and at the same time enjoy Zagreb’s oldest (opened in 1794) and largest public park. It’s also home to the town’s Zoo. Near the main Railway Station, there is also one fitness park and it is ideal for those who love to exercise in the open.

What to see in Zagreb, Croatia

The changing of the guard.

A march through Zagreb accompanied by the armorer, trumpeter, drummer, standard-bearer, and commander starts from May until October at the Main Square at 11:20 am and ends at 12:15 pm, every Saturday and Sunday, as well as 31 May ( City of Zagreb Day ), 18 October ( Cravat Regiment day ) and 1 January ( New Year’s Day ).

Experience the Upper Town through Dvorišta Event

Dvorišta is an event that particularly celebrates the Upper town. Dvorišta (Courtyards in Croatian) takes place in mid-July, for nine days. During this 9-day event, the owners of the Upper Town buildings, open their courtyards to the public. This way they offer visitors a chance to experience a part of the town that is usually shut behind facades, and doors.

Zagreb Travel Guide, Illustration for Pinterest

The museum of Broken Relationships

Also situated in the Upper town this museum is everything but not ordinary. In the beginning, this idea to expose the relics of broken relationships was a traveling exhibition. But since 2011 one of the palaces of Zagreb’s Upper Town hosts a museum. It also has a coffee bar so you can have a break.

If you are into museums, check these 10 must-visit museums in Zagreb .

Lotrščak Tower and the Grič cannon

Enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Zagreb from Lotrščak Tower and wait for noon when the Grič cannon fires as a sign for the bell-ringers of the city’s churches. This marking of midday is a tradition since 1877.

St Mark’s Church and the Cathedral

While you are walking through the Upper town be sure to take a photo outside of St Mark’s Church which is one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb. On the roof, tiles are laid so that they represent the coat of arms of Zagreb and the Triune Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia, and Dalmatia.

Zagreb Cathedral , located close to the main square, is the tallest building in Croatia. It has many Gothic architectural elements.

Sunday Antique Fair on British Square

British Square is located only 10 minutes by foot from the main square. From Monday to Saturday, you can buy fruit and vegetables in this square. On Sunday it is reserved for an antique fair . Check various stands and when you get tired have brunch or just a coffee in Kava Tava.

Food and restaurants

Grilled tuna in seasam, Rougemarin, Zagreb

If you ask the locals they will tell you that in the last few years Zagreb restaurant scene has genuinely improved. What we like the most is the fact that you don’t need to go to fancy restaurants to eat well . But if you want to, we recommend Carpaccio in Teslina, TheAthrium in Teslina, Nav in Masarykova, and Mano2 in Green Gold Center. There are places where you can eat great meals prepared in a quirky and modern way like Mali bar , Sol Tapas Bar, Rougemarin, Lari&Penati… all located in the center of the city.

If you would like to try a traditional Zagrebački štrukli, go to La Štruk (located on Skalinska Street) or hotel Esplanade near the main Railway station.

Hamburgers are in fashion again in Zagreb. There are a few good places where you can eat great hamburgers which is also great for those who travel on a low budget. Be sure to visit Yellow Submarine in Frankopanska and Papa’s in Tuskanac.

Broom 44 serves awesome vegetarian and vegan breakfasts and one of the best brunch in Zagreb , and quality coffee. A table is hard to get, though!

Accommodation

Zagreb offers a variety of accommodations suitable for every budget: hotels, hip, and cool hostels, and apartment rentals. Many of them are situated in the center of the city so sightseeing is easy. Prices are cheaper than along the coast. Daily rental for 2 starts from 40€. As a general rule of thumb, hotels are cheaper during the summer than in winter when they get lots of business travelers. Also, hotels are cheaper during the weekend than during the week (except during Advent in Zagreb ).

You can try some of the hostels like Swanky Mint Hostel in Ilica, Main Square Hostel, or private accommodations like IRUNDO which offers a few apartments at different locations in Zagreb’s center, and Design Studios Svi-Mi.

If you prefer a hotel, the most famous one is Esplanade which has hosted many Hollywood stars. Hotel Dubrovnik is situated in the main square and Hotel Jaegerhorn also has a unique position in the courtyard of a building on Ilica Street.

READ OUR FULL POST ON ACCOMMODATION IN ZAGREB.

Cafes and bars

In Croatia, drinking coffee is a ritual in itself. So when you are in Zagreb, experience a culture of sipping coffee for hours. You can always sit in any of the coffee bars on Tkalčićeva Street or in Cvjetni Square. However, if you want to escape from city noise, we recommend a few interesting places. If you are enjoying the Upper Town, don’t miss having a coffee in Palainovka on Ilirski Trg.

Velvet is a great little cafe bar and a gallery tucked away at the corner of Tuskanova and Dezmanova Street. In downtown, you will find Amelie which also offers cakes, quiche, and great ice-creams. U dvorištu (In the Courtyard) is located ten minutes on foot from the city center on Zerjavica Street; and it serves different types of coffee, varieties of tea, and all sorts of beer.

Remember that even if locals invite you for coffee it doesn’t necessarily mean you will actually drink a coffee – it is the invitation for hanging out.

In the Cheese Bar which is located at the main square and Wine Bar Bornstein near the Cathedral, you can drink a glass of wine and have a charcuterie platter (variety of sliced ham, prosciutto, and cheese with olive oil).

Popular events

Zagreb usually hosts a number of attractive concerts and exhibitions during the year. Be sure to check whether there is anything on at the time of your visit.

During summer in the Upper Town, you have Summer at Stross; a variety of shows for the kids, and a music program for adults. Cafe de Matos takes place in the Upper Town in July and August. The program brings various live concerts, street bands, and stand-up comedians. Besides these two events in the Upper Town, there is also the Gradec Summer Cinema . Here you can watch movies for free at Catherine’s Square. If you come earlier you will probably catch a seat but if you don’t, just sit anywhere on the floor. Don’t worry – it’s normal, it is what gives this event a unique atmosphere!

Traveling to Zagreb

Zagreb is very well connected and can be reached by bus, plane, car, or even by train.

Zagreb International Airport is the main airport in Croatia. It connects the country with almost all bigger European cities Paris, Frankfurt, Rome, London, Istanbul, Munich, Zurich, Vienna, Brussels, Barcelona, Moscow, Athens as well as Doha and Dubai.

The Airport is situated 12 kilometers from the city center and you can get to town by taxi (the price is around 20 € – make sure to ask for the price before you sit in the taxi) or with the Airport’s shuttle which drives to the main bus station. The price of a one-way ticket is 6 €)and the ride lasts 30 minutes. From the main bus station, you can catch the tram (number 6) to the city center (the distance is five tram stations).

Motorway A3 Bregana – Zagreb – Lipovac connects Zagreb with Northern Europe. You can also come to Zagreb using the Istrian Ypsilon which connects Istria with the Slovenian border and Rijeka from which highway A6 leads you to Zagreb. In the East, there is motorway A4 which connects Croatia with Hungary. From January 1 st, 2023 Croatia is a part of Schengen so there are no border controls if you are entering the country from Slovenia or Hungary.

Zagreb bus station is situated only five tram stations from the center of the city or 20 minutes on foot. You can buy a ticket online and if you are going from Zagreb to any other city in Croatia the connections are really good.

Some of the international cities which are connected by bus with Zagreb are Vienna, Augsburg, Berlin, Bern, Brno, Duesseldorf, Florence, Venice, Verona, Frankfurt, Halmstad, Köln, Ljubljana, Milano, Maribor, München, Uppsala, Zürich…

If you are traveling from other cities in Croatia to Zagreb you can also reach the city by train (there are connections with Split and Osijek amongst the larger cities). Zagreb is also connected with other European countries like Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Serbia, Hungary, Bosnia , and Herzegovina. The train generally takes the longest to get from one point to another in Croatia. However, if you have time on your side and want a relaxing way to see the country, this might be the way to go.

Public transport

Main square in Zagreb at night with blue tram

Zagreb is easy to navigate on foot, by bicycle, or by public transport. If you stay in the center of the city you can see all the main attractions on foot. If you find yourself outside of the center you can use a tram, bus, taxi, or bike.

There are a few different types of tram tickets. The cheapest ticket costs 0.53 € and it is valid for 30 minutes. The other two standard tickets cost 0.93 € or 1.33 € respectively, and last 60 or 90 minutes. At night time the price of this ticket is 1.99 €.

A daily ticket costs 3.98 € and you can ride as much as you like in any direction. The same conditions apply for 3-day tickets (9.29 €); 7-day tickets (19.91 €); 15-day tickets (26.54 €) and 30-day tickets (53.09 €).

You can buy a ticket at Tisak or iNovine kiosks or inside the tram from the driver. Tickets are more expensive if purchased on the tram. Rather buy them at any Tisak or iNovine kiosk in the town.

The same ticket can be used for the tram and the bus if the bus stations are in Zone 1, which most of the tourist destinations are. So if you buy a tram ticket you can use it also, for example, to visit Mirogoj Cemetery or to take a ride on the Funicular.

There are a few different taxi services in Zagreb (Cammeo, Radio Taxi Zagreb, Eko Taxi, UBER, and individual taxi drivers). You can order taxis by phone or you can find them parked in the different parts of town (taxis cannot pick you up in the street unless you have ordered one). In the city center, there are a lot of taxi stations (Gajeva Street, Petrnjiska Street, Mesnička Street, Masarykova Street, Vlaška Street…). For example, a ride from the main bus station to the center of the city will cost you around 4.5 €.

Cycling is also an interesting way to explore the city. In Zagreb, there is a system of public bicycles. So you can take a bike at one station and leave it at another. All information is available on the official web page of Nextbike but generally, it is easy to use. You just need to register yourself and activate an account by providing a valid credit card. Afterward, you just pay as you go. The price is 0.66 € per 30 minutes. You can also take a 7-day package, that provides you with the first 30 minutes of usage free of charge after which each additional 30 minutes costs 0.66 €, and depending on the length of your rides it reduces your next bike credit.

Car rental in Zagreb Croatia

In Zagreb, you’ll find all major international car rental providers like Hertz, Sixt, Avis, Europcar. Oryx and Nova are local car rental companies. They all have offices at the Zagreb Airport, and at various locations in town.

We use Rentalcars when booking a car in Croatia, and elsewhere. And we highly recommend using them. They offer very competitive prices, work with all major car rental companies, and provide super-easy online booking.

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4 thoughts on “A Travel Guide To Zagreb Croatia”

Hi Frank Please can you give some advice about taking a bus from Trogir to Zagreb – is that possible? Our cruise ends in Trogir and we want to just catch a bus to Zagreb. We are going to hire a car at Zagreb when we arrive and drive down to the lakes for 3 nights and then via Zadar to Trogir for 2 nights before our cruise leaves.

Hi Linda, thanks for reading. Bus is definitely better option than train. Check flix bus. They have the most affordable prices, and you can book online.

Hi Frank and Vera: thank you very much for your informations. Can you please help me, my husband and I will celebrate our 27 anniversary in Croatia. We have 5 nights. We will stay at Zagreb but I want to visit Slovenia, too. Can you please give me suggestions.? What is the best way to travel from Zagreb to Ljubljana ? Would you recommend the bus or the train? Should I get the tickets beforehand or can I buy them the same day? We will be taking only a carry-on with us. Thank you so much for all your help. Linda

Hi Frank and Vera: I appreciate very much your guide and log and other sources of information about Croatia. They are outstanding and I have benefitted a great deal from them. In middle September I will be flying from the U.S. to Zagreb, visit the city for two days (solo), and then join a tour in Ljubljana. My question: What is the best way to travel from Zagreb to Ljubljana (on a Saturday)? Would you recommend the bus or the train? Should I get the tickets beforehand or can I buy them the same day? I will be taking only a carry-on with me. Thank you so much for all your help. Nidia

Although it’s the capital of Croatia, Zagreb is sometimes overlooked as a destination by visitors to the country…which is a real shame, because it has plenty to offer! Sure, it doesn’t have the Adriatic sea or beaches, but it has many fine sights, plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars, lots of entertainment and regular events, a huge selection of accommodation (with something for all budgets), some decent shopping and is very easy to reach from elsewhere in Europe. Those other popular Central European cities – Prague and Budapest – have a strong competitor!

The city is certainly very suitable as a destination for a weekend break in Croatia !

The city is divided into three parts: the thousand-year old Gornji grad (Upper Town) which contains the Presidential Palace, the iconic St Mark’s Church, the Croatian parliament (Sabor), and museums and galleries which are all set in cobbled streets lit by gas lamps; the 19th century Donji grad (Lower Town) with its shops, restaurants, cafes, theatres and parks; and the modern post-World War II area of Novi Zagreb (‘new Zagreb’) which is full of high-rise buildings and basically has little to offer visitors.

Zagreb is also called a city of museums as there are more of them per square foot than any other city in the world. But this doesn’t mean that there is nothing else for you to do if you aren’t a history buff. One of the many pleasures that the Zagrebcani (the locals) enjoy is sitting in one of the numerous cafes watching the world go by. In the evening, you can visit one of the many restaurants, sampling a delicious Croatian dish, and finish the day in the one of the bars or clubs. Whatever you choose to do, you are guaranteed to have a good time!

Guide to Zagreb

Take a look at our guide to the city on the following pages, or read on for a general introduction below:

Map of Zagreb A searchable, scrollable map
History How the city came to be
Getting to Zagreb Flights and other options from around Europe
Getting to and from Zagreb Airport How best to travel between the airport and the city and elsewhere in Croatia
Public Transport Information on public transport – trams, buses, the funicular, tourist buses and more
Two Days in Zagreb A 48-hour itinerary – how best to spend your time in this wonderful city
Sightseeing in Zagreb The best sights – things you absolutely must see!
Museums in Zagreb Home to some very fine museums indeed, we pick the best ones to pay a visit to.
Zagreb for Kids Some top places for you and your little ones to enjoy when in the city.
Shopping in Zagreb Some of the best places to get your shopping fix, from department stores and malls to unique, independent shops.
Zagreb Accommodation Accommodation options, from budget hostels to five-star hotels.
Eating in Zagreb Some of the city’s best restaurants to try
Events in Zagreb Listing of events in the capital by month.
Day Trips in Zagreb Why not visit the sights slightly off the beaten track, such as Maksimir Park and Lake Jarun?
Day Trips from Zagreb Take a break away from the city and visit some of the towns in nearby regions, such as Samobor and Varazdin .

Be sure to also see our Photos of Zagreb photo album!

More information

The Around Zagreb is a great source information for day trips on the outskirts and just outside Zagreb
Blue Bike Offer a whole host of bike tours of the city, taking in many of the city’s most famous sights. There’s even an early bird tour (starting at 6/7am!) in summer, as well as a forest tour/ride on MTB bikes for those who like the more adventurous side of things!
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Zagreb Tourist Office with plenty of useful information on what to see and do

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20 BEST Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia In 2024

Looking for the best things to do in Zagreb?!

Zagreb is not only the capital of Croatia but it’s the country’s heart of culture, art, history, sports, politics, and vibrant events.

One thing you can be sure of is that there are plenty of fun things to do in Zagreb!

It’s commonly described as a contemporary city, due to its diversity of museums, coffee shops, art exhibitions, workshops, retail shops, and markets that are at your disposal to explore.

However, the medieval Upper Town of Zagreb cannot be forgotten as it’s the home of unique buildings, monuments, churches, and cute little streets worth visiting.

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Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: THINGS TO DO IN ZAGREB

Before I dive into more details about the best Zagreb tourist attractions, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions.

WHERE IS ZAGREB?

Croatia is part of central and southwest Europe, and Zagreb in its turn is located in the northwest part of Croatia, just 30km away from the border with Slovenia.

The city lies on the southern slopes of Medvednica, along the beautiful Sava River.

Click here for an interactive map of Zagreb.

HOW TO GET TO ZAGREB?

Zagreb Croatia can easily be reached by car, bus, train, and plane. The capital welcomes both domestic and international travelers.

If you are traveling from a country which borders Croatia, like Slovenia, Hungary or Serbia, it’s really easy and fast to get to Zagreb by car or public transport.

For those of you arriving from further away destinations, your best bet is to fly into Zagreb International Airport.

Arriving by train is a great option for reaching Zagreb. Daily trains operate in and out of the capital, connecting Zagreb to other major cities in Europe.

Traveling around Europe by train is one of the best ways to get around at an affordable cost.

I highly recommend purchasing a Eurail Pass online in advance which gives you access to the majority of trains, buses, and boats throughout 33 countries in Europe!

If you plan on traveling to Zagreb by bus, there are various cities within Europe offering bus routes to Zagreb.

One of the most popular bus companies to travel with is FlixBus, which offers international routes and arrives at Zagreb Bus Terminal (Autobusni Kolodvor Zagreb).

On top of that, if you’re planning to visit Zagreb from other parts of Croatia such as Split, you’ll be able to jump on a domestic bus and arrive in the capital within just a few hours.

When traveling in Croatia, the best place to search and book tickets for buses is on Bookaway.com which has a range of local bus companies and private transportation options to choose from.

How to get from A to B, stress-free!

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With discounted ticket prices and a free app, Bookaway is a one-stop shop for all your ground transportation needs!

Whether you are arriving domestically or internationally by plane, there are plenty of airlines offering direct flights to Zagreb International Airport.

From Zagreb International Airport to the city, it’s a short 25-minute drive, and you have the option to take a taxi or Uber, or you can even book a private transfer directly to your hotel.

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HOW TO GET AROUND IN ZAGREB?

You can simply get around the city on foot as the majority of the Zagreb attractions are located in the main upper town and are within walking distance of each other.

You also have the option to use public transport such as the tram network and local buses, which is quite reliable and affordable.

However, if you are planning on using the network more than once a day, you should probably opt to buy a day ticket for just 4 Euros.

You can purchase tickets at the tram/bus stations or at the Tisak Kiosks.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ZAGREB?

The best time to visit Zagreb is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During these months the weather is warm and there are more hours of sunlight.

However, if you are not really prepared to experience high temperatures, you should aim for the months of April, May, and September when the weather is nice, but not too hot, and when there are fewer tourists around.

Though visiting Zagreb during June, July, and August has its own advantages because although it can be too hot and too busy, there are more festivals, workshops, events, and music shows for everyone to enjoy.

HOW MANY DAYS IN ZAGREB?

If you really want to fully enjoy what this charming city has to offer, you should stay for at least two days.

It’s a city full of things to see and do, so you will find plenty of Zagreb tourist attractions to entertain you for at least a week.

However, if you don’t have many days to spend there, 4 days are probably the perfect number of days you should spend in Zagreb to be able to see and experience at least the main spots which I have mentioned in this guide.

20 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ZAGREB

Now that we’ve got all the questions and logistical information out of the way, let’s get to the fun stuff.

So, without further ado, here is my complete guide on the top things to do in Zagreb in Croatia!

Just a heads up before starting: If you head down the coast after Zagreb, I highly recommend spending some time on Vis Island , arguably one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

VISIT ZAGREB’S CATHEDRAL

The famous Cathedral of Zagreb, also known as the Cathedral of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is one of the top attractions in Zagreb.

Built in the 11 th century, the Cathedral is considered a symbol of Zagreb due to its relationship with Croatia’s independence.

Inside the Cathedral lies the grave of Kardinal Stepinac, Zagreb’s Archbishop from 1946 to 1960, which is considered the father of independent Croatia, after having spent 15 years in prison, fighting for his country.

This majestic Cathedral was partially destroyed by an earthquake in 1880 and rebuilt by Hermann Bolle, an Austrian architect, who was responsible for adding the two big towers which make the Cathedral even more unique and admired by the locals and tourists who visit it every year.

While you can stop and see the cathedral on your own, I recommend joining a walking tour of Zagreb , which allows you to learn about the city’s history with a knowledgeable guide.

BEST TOUR IN ZAGREB

Best of Zagreb with Funicular Ride and WW2 Tunnels

The best way to visit is to join a Walking Tour of Zagreb with Funicular Ride and WW2 Tunnels !

It includes popular spots in Zagreb, the funicular ticket, and a private, fun guide to share the day with!

INDULGE IN SOME DELICACIES AT THE DOLAC MARKET

The Dolac Market is so gorgeous it has been called a living museum . The market is located near the Gornji Grad, Zagreb´s main square, and it offers the best products which enable you to experience “the real” Croatia.

With a vibrant atmosphere, this market is distributed indoors and outdoors, with dozens of locals selling their local products.

Whether you are looking for vegetables, fish, flowers, art and crafts, street food, and so on, this is the place to be.

You will be amazed that you will find anything you may be looking for, with the certainty that they are the best products in the region.

Due to its variety, expect the market to be busy, especially during the weekend, because that is when the locals from nearby villages, come to do their weakly grocery shopping.

However, don’t let it stop you from visiting it, as it will be one of the main experiences you will have when sightseeing in Zagreb.

RIDE ONE OF THE WORLD’S SHORTEST FUNICULARS

Next on this list of what to do in Zagreb is riding the famous funicular which happens to be one of the shortest funiculars in the world, with its track being only 66 meters.

The funicular has two cars that can accommodate up to 28 people and the cost is 5 Kuna (0.67 Euros). It runs every 10 minutes, and it takes just over a minute to complete its commute.

This singular funicular was built in 1890 at the request of D. W. Klein. However, it is known that the funicular had so many mechanical issues that it was always being repaired. So, it was only in 1974 that it properly started working again.

With such an interesting history, you cannot forget to visit this unique feature of Croatia’s capital.

The BEST Hotel in Zagreb

Need a place to stay? Esplanade Hotel is conveniently located in Zagreb.

Whether you’re here to explore the sights or relax in comfort, Esplanade Hotel is an excellent option!

WANDER AROUND ZAGREB’S OLD TOWN

The Old Town of Zagreb is the oldest part of the city and lies in the scopes of Kaptol and Gradec, two hills.

In this part of the city, you will find calm, narrow streets, and fascinating spots that seem to have stepped back in time.

Known as the Upper Town – Gornji Grad – in Croatian, this area of Zagreb is also full of cute cafés, restaurants, and bars, where you can sit and enjoy the amazing medieval surroundings.

The architecture is also one of the main attractions of the old town, let yourself be amazed by the Gothic architecture which dominates many of the medieval buildings in the area.

So, when looking for what to do in Zagreb, simply start exploring, wander around, and get lost in the network of tiny, charming streets of the Old Town – you will not regret it.

Like I mentioned previously, the best way to visit is to join a walking tour, and I recommend booking now as this is a very popular tour in town. Plus, it includes the funicular ride!

VISIT BAN JOSIP JELAČIĆ SQUARE

Ban Jelačić Square is Zagreb’s main square located in the heart of the city.

It’s home to many fairs, markets, and events and a place where locals like to sip on their morning coffee at one of the many cafés dotted around the square.

An interesting fact is that the square is called this way, due to the impressive sculpture of Ban Josip Jelačić, which stands dominantly in the center of the square.

There is also a fountain, which is believed to have magical powers, so throw a coin into the Manduševac Fountain and fingers crossed for your wish to come true.

WALK THROUGH THE GRIC TUNNEL

Gric Tunnel is one of the most well-kept secrets of Upper Town Zagreb. Built in 1943, the Gric Tunnel is part of a network of underground tunnels which lay under the city.

It was originally built as a refuge with the purpose of keeping civilians safe from the frequent bombings that happened at that time, but it was also home years later to Zagreb’s underground rave parties.

Nowadays, it’s open to the public, and the tunnel even hosts different small events, however, it will always continue to be one of Zagreb’s most mystical places.

The best way to visit is to join a Communism & Croatian Homeland War Tour , and I’ll tell you more about it here below.

COMMUNISM AND CROATIAN WAR TOUR

Ready to walk in the footsteps of history? Whether you love history or just want to learn more about Zagreb’s past, this is the tour you can’t miss while in town.

After meeting your guide, you’ll visit the WWII-era tunnels, used for shelter during the bombings.

These tunnels have seen it all, and your guide will bring history to life with stories and anecdotes of people that sheltered underground during the Yugoslav War .

Next, you’ll explore Yugoslavia-era Croatia, learning about the Communist regime under Tito and the challenges that Croatia faced during this time.

Before ending the tour, you’ll learn about the Croatian Homeland War, with a presentation from your guide.

While this isn’t one of the fun things to do in Zagreb, it’s nonetheless important to understand where Croatia is coming from, and I highly recommend booking now to secure your spot.

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CLIMB THE LOTRŠČAK TOWER (BEST THINGS TO DO IN ZAGREB FOR VIEWS)

The Kula Lotrscak Tower is a 13th-century construction and the only well-preserved medieval tower that remains in Zagreb.

Besides the unique view that you will have of the city from the top of the tower, there are also other aspects that make it a worthy addition to your list of what to see in Zagreb.

According to legend, a cannon shot was fired from the tower, reaching Pasha’s tent, an important Ottoman individual.

Due to this, the Turkish army gave up on attacking the city, because they associated the cannon shot with a backoff message.

As all this happened at noon, every day a cannon shot takes place at the same time.

Opening times are Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm and the ticket costs approximately 1.3 Euros.

JOIN A DAY TRIP TO LJUBLJANA AND LAKE BLED

If you have more time to explore Zagreb, I recommend taking a day trip and exploring Slovenia with this full-day tour of Ljubljana and Bled from Croatia.

You’ll embark on a journey filled with history, culture, and beauty, and you’ll love the old city center of Ljubljana, with the Triple Bridge resting on top of the picturesque Ljubljanica River.

I recently took a trip to the Balkans and Ljubljana was definitely one of the highlights.

After that, you’ll drive up to Lake Bled with its castle dating from the 11th century and perched on a hill, where you’ll be able to enjoy the views and take stunning photos.

What I particularly like about this day tour is that they don’t rush you around, so you’ll have time to enjoy each moment, and the guide is very knowledgeable, which is excellent!

To sum up, I recommend this tour anytime, but it’s especially one of the best things to do in Zagreb in September, once the crowds of tourists leave Lake Bled.

Ljubljana and Bled Lake small group day tour from Zagreb

MARVEL AT ST. MARK’S CHURCH

On the hunt for another Zagreb what to see? St Mark’s Church is certainly a good choice.

Erected in the 13 th century, St Mark’s Church may be one of the most unique buildings in the city. Its original and emblematic roof makes it hard not to admire it.

St Mark’s Church roof has the emblem of Zagreb on its right side and the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Slavonia, and Dalmatia on its left side.

Besides the magnificent details on the outside, the inside of the church is also full of characters displaying sculptures made by Ivan Meštrović.

This is one of the sites you should not miss out on while visiting Zagreb, especially if you’re a history, art, and architecture lover.

Luckily for the public, the church is open from Monday to Sunday from 7.30 am to 6 pm and the entrance is free!

CHECK OUT PARK ZRINJEVAC

Park Zrinjevac not only offers a chilled and peaceful atmosphere to sit and relax, but it is also the home of the first fountain in Zagreb, which is known as ‘The Mushroom.’

The park is without any doubt one of the top Zagreb attractions and is the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

There are usually open-air concerts every weekend in the summer and food and drink spots for you to try.

Park Zrinjevac is very well located, being just a few meters away from the main square and it’s surrounded by many museums and galleries.

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TAKE A TRIP TO PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Another day trip from Zagreb I couldn’t recommend enough is one to Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will leave you in awe with its stunning natural beauty.

You’ll start the trip by visiting the charming village of Rastoke, where you’ll step into a fairytale with its wooden watermills and waterfalls.

Once at the national park, the guide will take you on a walking tour where you’ll see the 16 interconnected lakes and cascading waterfalls that make up Plitvice Lakes.

After walking through the park, you’ll ride to Kozjak Lake for a spectacular cruise.

And, if you thought the views couldn’t get any better, we’ll top it off with a refreshing panoramic train ride that will take you through the picturesque landscapes of Plitvice Lakes National Park .

Apart from seeing some of the best sights in Croatia, the admission tickets are included, which is definitely an added bonus!

Note that joining this tour is one of the best things to do in Zagreb in June, as an excellent time to visit.

Plitvice Lakes with Ticket Rastoke Small Group Tour from Zagreb 2

TAKE A PHOTO OF THE ART PAVILION BUILDING

There is no way you will not stop and take a picture of the massive and impressive yellow building which is known as the Art Pavilion Building.

VISIT FONTANA IMPORTANNE

Visiting the Fontana Importanne, a majestic fountain, is another one of the best things to do in Zagreb.

This amazing fountain lies in the heart of a circle of trees and it’s the place to go if you are looking for some peace and quiet, and it’s also a photogenic spot to take some pictures.

There is a café right in the fountain area, where you can sit, grab a beer and enjoy a sunset admiring the fountain, the park in which it lies, and the surrounding old buildings.

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ENJOY AFTERNOON TEA AT ESPLANADE ZAGREB

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is home to arguably the best afternoon tea in the city.

After a long day of sightseeing in Zagreb, there is no better escape than having a fantastic afternoon tea at one of the most emblematic lounges and sun terraces in the capital.

At Esplanade Zagreb you’ll find a luxury list of 15 classic Ronnefeldt teas, open-faced sandwiches, and delicious pastries that are to die for.

The Orient Express afternoon tea, which is its principal offer, costs only 21 Euros, so there is no excuse for you not to give it a try!

STROLL AROUND ART PARK

The Art Park is one of the places you need to visit during your stay as it is a vivid part of Zagreb’s culture.

Although it was not initially known for the best reasons, this park has become one of the most frequented and vibrant parks in the city.

The Art Park is full of exciting activities and sports for children, young adults, and older people.

There are playgrounds for the kids, loads of workshops and yoga classes which are on especially during the summer months, picnic spots, football pitches, and cafés to grab something to eat and drink.

SIP ON AN APEROL SPRITZ AT JOHANN FRANCK CAFÉ

Dating back to 1892, the Johann Franck Café, bistro, and lounge bar is one of the most well-known places in the city, and surely a great Zagreb must-see!

Johann Franck is known for having the best coffee in the city, which has been prepared for many years according to unique recipes.

Alternatively, if you are not a coffee lover, you can perch up here in the afternoon and sip on a chill Aperol Spritz while people-watching in the main square.

SEE THE VIEW FROM ZAGREB’S 360° OBSERVATION DECK

Exploring Zagreb’s 360° Observation Deck is not to be missed on your list of what to do in Zagreb, as it is for a reason the first most visited attraction in the capital.

At the top of the tower on the 16 th floor, you can enjoy a breathtaking 360º view of Zagreb.

From the top, you will be able to spot some of the most famous budlings, squares, and monuments of the city, and if you are lucky enough with the weather, it’s possible to see Slovenia from the tower.

Besides the magnificent view, which is more than a sufficient reason for you to visit, there’s also a bar at the top, which offers a 360º view of the city.

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BAR HOP ON ULICA IVAN TKALCICA (MAIN WALKING STREET)

Another of the things to do Zagreb offers is to go bar hopping!

Ulica Ivana Tkalcica is one of the main streets of Zagreb’s city center and known for its historical 18th-century surrounding buildings.

Its diverse offer of bars, pubs, and restaurants, makes it the perfect place for a bar hop. So, it’s safe to say that if you are looking for some fun and entertainment this is the place to be.

The street goes from Ban Jelacic Square to Little Street and is full of spots for you to stop and try some local beers and food and enjoy a good night out.

Overall, it’s one of the things to do in Zagreb for young adults, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.

VISIT THE MUSEUM OF BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS

The Museum of Broken Relationships is one of the main things to do in Zagreb, as you will not find anything similar anywhere else in the world.

Located in the Upper Town, this museum offers a unique journey through various break-ups.

The idea behind this museum started off when a couple broke up, and they started collecting objects from other people who had their love affairs ended as well.

The initiative was so successful that in 2010 they managed to open the Museum of Broken Relationships with objects which have been donated by the local residents.

The museum is open between 10 am – 9 pm all year round, except for Christmas Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter, and All Saints Day.

The ticket costs approximately 7 Euros for adults and 4 Euros for children and people over 64, and that’s definitely worth it, when considering what to see in Zagreb.

BEST PLACES TO EAT & DRINK IN ZAGREB

If you are looking for the best restaurants in Zagreb to experience some unique flavors, these are some of the best options:

BOMBAY GRILL INDIAN RESTAURANT

The Bombay Grill Indian Restaurant is located in Tkalcieva and is one of the most well-known restaurants in Zagreb.

The food is cooked by experienced chefs, and it uses ingredients from the season, which means you will never know what you will find, but you can be sure it will be a pleasant and tasty surprise.

JOHANN FRANCK CAFÉ

Johann Franck Café as mentioned before is one of the most important and famous places in the whole city.

Although it was first known for its unique coffee, it’s now also a place where you can enjoy some delicious food and drinks, right in the main square of Zagreb.

If you’re looking for something a bit different after enjoying the Zagreb things to do then you need to stop at Submarine. This place offers outstanding gourmet burgers and truffle fries.

Besides being extremely tasty, they are also homemade burgers, made with organic vegetables and locally produced dairy and meat.

So, if you are trying these burgers, you are not only emerging yourself into a delicious experience, but you are also supporting the local industry.

Heritage is also another restaurant that you should give a try. It’s the place to go if you are looking for traditional Croatian food.

This remarkable snack bar/restaurant offers Croatian dishes where you can experience the flavors of Croatia. The food is amazing, the prices are very affordable, and the staff is known for being very kind and helpful.

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM ZAGREB

Where to stay in zagreb.

Zagreb has hundreds of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend after deciding Zagreb what to do:

LUXURY: ESPLANADE ZAGREB HOTEL

I personally spent 2 nights at Esplanade Zagreb Hotel and can’t recommend this luxurious accommodation enough!

The staff were very welcoming, the service was 5-star, and the view from the bedroom window of the old buildings, the fountain, and the square was amazing!

The central location made it easy to explore the upper and lower town on foot and public transport options are just a stone’s throw away.

The buffet breakfast was delicious and I enjoyed afternoon tea on the terrace, too. 10 out of 10 stay!

MID-RANGE: TIMEOUT HERITAGE HOTEL

BUDGET: CHILLOUT HOSTEL

FOR MORE OPTIONS IN ZAGREB, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

What to pack for zagreb.

When visiting Zagreb, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Also, before you take off on your trip, be sure to check out these handy tips for Croatia .

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FINAL THOUGHTS – WHAT TO DO IN ZAGREB

So now that you know what to do in Zagreb and where to find all of the top Zagreb attractions, there is no excuse for you not to visit the capital of Croatia soon.

This city offers the best of both worlds – historic and quiet places for you to get to know more about the city’s past and time to visit vibrant cultural parks, bars, cafés, restaurants, events, and activities for you to have some fun.

It is without any doubt a city full of charm with plenty of things to see and explore.

If you have any questions at all about planning your visit to Zagreb in Croatia, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations about things to see in Zagreb to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

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THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

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Tourism in Zagreb

Hotels in zagreb.

Zagreb - the City with a Heart

The impressions of many foreigners who live in Zagreb, business people and tourists can be summed up in a single sentence: a large city which managed to stay romantic and safe . There are unlimited possibilities for visiting music and theatre events, art exhibitions, museums, sporting events and enjoying pleasant walks, interesting architecture, plentiful parks in the centre of the city, pedestrian zones and the atmosphere.

Additional Reason for Visit:

Spacious pedestrian zones with many open cafes with garden and street terraces scattered all over the city add to the charm of Zagreb hospitality . The largest number of cultural and other institutions is located in the centre of the city, on a relatively small area where everything is within walking distance.

Zagreb is the city of international fairs, conventions, business meetings (Zagreb Fair and congresses), as well as sporting events. There are more than 6,000 beds in hotels, some of them belonging to world-famous hotel chains. The number of small and family-owned hotels and hostels is increasing. They all share the same level of professionalism and hospitality.

Green Zagreb

Zagreb has around 30 attractive parks , spreading over the area larger than 400,000 square meters. Among the most representative ones is the so-called Lenuzzi Horseshoe or the Green Horseshoe - a complex of seven squares which frame the downtown area with their parks and green areas in the shape of the letter U. It is also important to mention Maksimir Park and forest with the Zoo, green areas like Jarun recreational centre, Bundek Lake and Sljeme, the highest peak of Medvednica Mountain.

The rich cultural life is reflected in numerous theatre performances, operas and operettas, concerts of modern, classical and jazz music and many festivals. Events in recent years have been very interesting and attract the attention of the performing arts scene thanks to live acts by world-famous artists (U2, Jon Bon Jovi, Shakira, Beyonce, Placido Domingo, etc.)

Apart from a high-quality performance program of the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra , the Zagreb Symphony Orchestra and the Zagreb Soloists, there are many guest performances by world-known orchestras, groups, conductors and soloists. Throughout the year there is a large number of performances in the streets, which adds to Zagreb’s liveliness.

Zagreb Night Life

Today, Zagreb has many discotheques, clubs, pubs, beer halls and lounge bars, night clubs and cocktail bars, several jazz clubs, plenty of cafes and restaurants which, among other things, also offer good entertainment. Those who prefer trying their luck can have fun in the city’s casinos .

The centre of the city is the liveliest area, but the atmosphere is also good at “Zagreb’s sea” - Jarun Lake - where nightlife that can be compared to much more vaunted destinations, thanks to its many clubs and bars.

Large shopping malls in the very heart of the city, pleasant shops with local goods and international designer brands - many of them on a small area of the centre of Zagreb and mostly in pedestrian zones - are the reason why Zagreb is also a favourite shopping destination.

From distinctively Croatian products, along with books, guidebooks and art paintings - we recommend wine, confectionery products and natural cosmetics, artefacts, handmade textile, glass and wooden products. There is also quality clothing, shoes and jewellery made by local designers - products based on international trends, as well as those for which the inspiration is drawn from the rich national heritage of the city with its surroundings and other Croatian regions.

Gastronomy

There are many restaurants, inns and cafes in Zagreb. Zagreb restaurants are renowned for their high quality cuisine, largely consisting of Mediterranean and continental dishes, but also international specialties (there is a large number of European and non-European national restaurants). Excellent wines from Zagreb surrounding and other Croatian regions will make a delicious meal complete.

Best hotels

Esplanade Hotel ★★★★★

Near the Main Train Station

Wellness centre, staff, location

Hotel Dubrovnik ★★★★

Set on Zagreb’s Main Square

Perfect location, parking, pets allowed

Sheraton Hotel ★★★★★

500 m from the Main Train Station

Wellness centre, parking, staff

Hotel Jagerhorn ★★★

Situated in the main pedestrian street

Perfect location, great staff

Hotel 9 ★★★★

1.7 km from the city centre

Great staff, modern furniture, clean

The Westin ★★★★★

Situated in the heart of Zagreb

Wellness centre, city view, location

image gallery

Zagreb European Best Destinations - Copyright xbrchx

Top things to do

Cathedral and archbishop's palace complex.

Built in the 11th century, this magnificent cathedral, partially demolished after an earthquake in 1880, has a new face since the Austrian architect Hermann Bolle added two big towers / arrows that make this cathedral a symbol of Zagreb. Herman Bolle has also worked on two other symbols of the city of Zagreb : the cemetery of Mirogoj and St. Mark's Church.

Top things to do Zagreb - Zagreb Cathedral Copyright TTstudio

The Arcades of Mirogoj cemetery

The Mirogoj Cemetery is one of the places that you have to visit during your stay in Zagreb. Mirogoj, the main cemetery of the city, is located outside the city center but you can easily get to it by car, taxi or bus (Bus 106). The architect Herman Bolle that renovated this cemetery with monumental arches, is the one that renovated the Cathedral of Zagreb and created the magnificent roof of St. Mark church.

Top things to do Zagreb - Mirogoj cemetery copyright SJ Travel Photo and Video

It is the best place in Zagreb for fresh products, most often sold by local producers. The Dolac Market is a market with natural, fresh and cheap fruit and vegetables.

What makes it unique? The Dolac is a daily outdoor market covered with beach umbrellas which give a unique touch to the market for fruit and vegetables, but also flowers, wooden toys...

This market is nicknamed "The belly of Zagreb".

Top things to do Zagreb Dolac Market - Copyright paul prescott

St. Mark's Church

The colourful Church of St. Mark is one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb and of its symbols. It is first mentioned in the list of parish churches in the Kaptol Statute of 1334. It was built in the 13th century; from that first, Romanesque period, only a window in the south wall and the bell-tower foundation are preserved.

Top things to do Zagreb St Mark Copyright Phant

Park Maksimir with the Viewpoint

Park Maksimir, which was originally formed on the outskirts of Zagreb at the end of 18 th and the first half of 19 th century, today is completely surrounded with town settlements. In this new surrounding Park Maksimir still represents a shelter for many plant and animal species, despite its small area of only 316 ha. Its value for the protection of endangered species connected to old hollows is significant because of preserved hundred-year-old oak forests.

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Zagreb Travel Guide

Zagreb is Croatia's capital city and despite the country being a tourist hotspot, the city is still rather unknown to travelers as most opt to flock to the turquoise waters of Croatia's coastline. Zagreb has recently stepped out in a big way, showcasing an unparalleled culinary scene, colorful streets and design, and personality that rival some of the world's greatest cities. — Megan Starr

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FinanceBuzz

15 Safe and Affordable European Cities That Retirees Love

Posted: September 6, 2023 | Last updated: September 6, 2023

<p> With retirement comes nearly endless potential for your next phase of life. You now have the financial freedom and unlimited spare time to do everything you’ve always wanted. </p> <p> Visiting Europe is high on many people’s bucket lists and perhaps a high priority as you retire, but it can be costly and potentially dangerous. </p><p>That doesn’t mean you should scratch it from your itinerary, though. Instead, look into visiting the following 15 safe and affordable European cities. </p> <p> <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=13279&synd_backlink_title=Compare+the+best+travel+credit+cards+for+nearly+free+travel&synd_backlink_position=1&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel</a> </p>

With retirement comes nearly endless potential for your next phase of life. You now have the financial freedom and unlimited spare time to do everything you’ve always wanted.

Visiting Europe is high on many people’s bucket lists and perhaps a high priority as you retire, but it can be costly and potentially dangerous.

That doesn’t mean you should scratch it from your itinerary, though. Instead, look into visiting the following 15 safe and affordable European cities.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Your bank account won’t get homesick traveling to Ljubljana, Slovenia, one of the safest and most affordable European destinations. Aside from being rich in history and culture, the city also prides itself on being green.

The only major safety concern comes from pickpockets, though this can be expected at any tourist destination. The average daily cost to visit, including accommodations and food, ranges from $45 to $54.

Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.

Lisbon, Portugal

Another great budget European destination is Lisbon, Portugal. The average daily cost is around $143, including transportation, food, and accommodations.

As for safety, it’s hard to beat the city’s ranking. Again, pickpockets and scams are the most significant risks at play, so just be alert and aware of your surroundings.

Zagreb, Croatia

Head to Zagreb, Croatia, if you love unique sightseeing opportunities, including historical cemeteries, vibrant arts and culinary scenes, museums, and more.

Zagreb is a very safe city if you take precautions against the local pickpockets. The average cost per day is just $86 a person.

6 ways to build a life where you can travel any time you want

Tallinn, Estonia

If you want to spend your retirement enriching yourself in medieval history, look no further than Tallinn, Estonia. The city is steeped in history, from cathedrals to castles and more.

Including accommodations and food, you can expect to spend around $44 to $56 per day in the city. While the city is safe, you will need to remain vigilant against pickpockets and scams, especially transportation scams.

Istanbul, Turkey

Another breathtakingly gorgeous and historical city is Istanbul, Turkey. The average cost per day is low at just $47, and many free attractions and sightseeing opportunities exist.

Being a large, popular city, Istanbul can be less safe than other quieter destinations. Petty theft is the biggest risk, so as long as you’re aware of your surroundings, you should be fine.

However, be aware of the city’s political climate before booking your flight, as this could pose a safety risk for travelers.

<p> Another Portuguese city perfect for retirees is Porto — average daily costs range from $43 to $58. You can visit 12th-century churches, gorgeous riverfronts, cafes, shops, and more. </p> <p> Scams and pickpockets are cause for concern, but being aware and on guard can help prevent these petty crimes. </p> <p> <a href="https://financebuzz.com/ways-to-make-extra-money?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=7&synd_postid=13279&synd_backlink_title=13+legit+ways+to+make+extra+cash&synd_backlink_position=4&synd_slug=ways-to-make-extra-money">13 legit ways to make extra cash</a> </p>

Porto, Portugal

Another Portuguese city perfect for retirees is Porto — average daily costs range from $43 to $58. You can visit 12th-century churches, gorgeous riverfronts, cafes, shops, and more.

Scams and pickpockets are cause for concern, but being aware and on guard can help prevent these petty crimes.

13 legit ways to make extra cash

<p> Bavaria is not only one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Germany but also one of the safest. In fact, it has the lowest crime rate in the whole country. It’s also in Germany’s countryside, making it a lovely, lowkey spot for retirees. </p> <p> It costs around $166 per day for food, transportation, and accommodation, but this is a reasonable number compared to other European destinations. </p>

Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is not only one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Germany but also one of the safest. In fact, it has the lowest crime rate in the whole country. It’s also in Germany’s countryside, making it a lovely, lowkey spot for retirees.

It costs around $166 per day for food, transportation, and accommodation, but this is a reasonable number compared to other European destinations.

<p> Spain is a gorgeous and relaxed country perfect for retirees, but many destinations are simply too expensive. Andalusia, and specifically the city of Málaga, is safe and affordable. </p> <p> Aside from petty theft like pickpocketing, it’s incredibly safe for visiting retirees. As for the cost, expect an average of $138 per day. </p>

Andalusia, Spain

Spain is a gorgeous and relaxed country perfect for retirees, but many destinations are simply too expensive. Andalusia, and specifically the city of Málaga, is safe and affordable.

Aside from petty theft like pickpocketing, it’s incredibly safe for visiting retirees. As for the cost, expect an average of $138 per day.

Kotor, Montenegro

Another beautiful, affordable, and safe destination for retirees is yet again in the Balkans — this time in Kotor, Montenegro.

Montenegro is generally very safe, sans the occasional scam or pickpocket. Budget around $108 per day for transportation, food, and a place to stay, plus a little extra for shopping or sightseeing.

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<p> Italy is another highly coveted destination for retirees, but many cities are unattainably expensive and can be dangerous in dense tourist destinations. </p> <p> Palermo, Sicily, though, is a wonderful middle ground between the two. While scammers, pickpockets, and other petty criminals abound like any other travel site, it’s largely safe as long as you’re vigilant. </p><p>As for cost, it’s roughly $101 per day for accommodation, food, and transportation. </p>

Palermo, Sicily

Italy is another highly coveted destination for retirees, but many cities are unattainably expensive and can be dangerous in dense tourist destinations.

Palermo, Sicily, though, is a wonderful middle ground between the two. While scammers, pickpockets, and other petty criminals abound like any other travel site, it’s largely safe as long as you’re vigilant.

As for cost, it’s roughly $101 per day for accommodation, food, and transportation.

<p> Another Mediterranean destination retirees love is Greece. However, scammers run rampant in popular tourist sites, which are generally very pricey. </p> <p> The Peloponnese, though, is both safe and affordable. Any city in the region is a great idea. The cost per day in Nafplio is around $122, for example. </p><p>While some political unease exists in Athens and other Grecian destinations, the Peloponnese is a laid-back, rural site safe for visitors. </p>

The Peloponnese, Greece

Another Mediterranean destination retirees love is Greece. However, scammers run rampant in popular tourist sites, which are generally very pricey.

The Peloponnese, though, is both safe and affordable. Any city in the region is a great idea. The cost per day in Nafplio is around $122, for example.

While some political unease exists in Athens and other Grecian destinations, the Peloponnese is a laid-back, rural site safe for visitors.

Klagenfurt, Austria

Another gorgeous medieval European city is Klagenfurt, Austria, which is both safe and affordable for retirees.

Klagenfurt is a safe city, but be aware that it’s close to the local airport, so petty theft may be more significant than other destinations. As for cost, a two-week trip for two is around $4,000, which comes out to around $143 per day per person.

5 signs you're doing better financially than the average American

Riga, Latvia

Riga, Latvia, is a culture-rich European destination with lots of free or cheap things to enjoy as a retiree, including live music, local restaurants, museums and historical sites, and paddleboard tours.

The most significant risk in Riga is petty theft, like pickpocketing and scams. Scams usually involve being convinced to visit certain bars and then being grossly overcharged, so keep your wits about you.

Brasov, Romania

If you’re a fan of literature or history, visit Brasov, Romania — the home of Bran Castle, where Count Dracula's legend gained footing.

Not only is the city itself affordable to visit, but there are tons of free and inexpensive sightseeing options, like walking tours or cable cars that take you into the mountains.

Again, pickpockets and scams are common but the only major source of crime, so be aware and alert.

<p> Grab one of the <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=16&synd_postid=13279&synd_backlink_title=best+travel+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=7&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">best travel credit cards</a> and head to the city of Tbilisi in Georgia. This is a wonderfully affordable travel option for retirees, with accommodations as low as $25 per night. </p> <p> Tbilisi is also the largest city in, as well as the capital of, Georgia, making it a wonderfully busy place to sightsee. </p><p>Even though it’s a popular tourist spot, it’s one of the safest cities not just in the country but on the continent. Common issues like pickpockets and scams are reported in very low numbers. </p> <p> <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/seniors-throw-money-away-tp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=16&synd_postid=13279&synd_backlink_title=8+ways+seniors+are+throwing+away+money&synd_backlink_position=8&synd_slug=seniors-throw-money-away-tp">8 ways seniors are throwing away money</a></p> </p>

Tbilisi, Georgia

Grab one of the best travel credit cards and head to the city of Tbilisi in Georgia. This is a wonderfully affordable travel option for retirees, with accommodations as low as $25 per night.

Tbilisi is also the largest city in, as well as the capital of, Georgia, making it a wonderfully busy place to sightsee.

Even though it’s a popular tourist spot, it’s one of the safest cities not just in the country but on the continent. Common issues like pickpockets and scams are reported in very low numbers.

8 ways seniors are throwing away money

Bottom line

There’s no better time to travel Europe than during retirement. With essentially unlimited free time, you can enjoy your destination at a slow pace tailored to your wants and needs.

You can also avoid wasting money on pricier destinations without compromising your safety. There are plenty of destinations that fit a reasonable or even tight budget and are safe and welcoming to all visitors.

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1 Day in Zagreb: The Perfect Zagreb Itinerary
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23 Top Things to Do in Zagreb
Visiting Zagreb, the capital of Croatia

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COMMENTS

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Zagreb
Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia: See Tripadvisor's 176,942 traveler reviews and photos of Zagreb tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in April. We have reviews of the best places to see in Zagreb. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
Things to See and Do in Zagreb [Complete List] » Visit ...
Discover architectural and natural beauty and attractions, many of which can be enjoyed for free. Uncover its many secrets from the past by exploring historic palaces and roaming ancient streets. You're never far from an attraction or activity in Zagreb. Perhaps you'll scale monuments, admire traditional and contemporary artworks or explore ...
16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Zagreb
Find the best places to visit in the city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Zagreb, Croatia. See also: Where to Stay in Zagreb. On This Page: 1. Take a Stroll through Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad) 2. See the Treasures at Zagreb Cathedral. 3. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships.
32 Things To Do in Zagreb (And What Not To Do) + In 2024
By air: As Croatia's capital, Zagreb is well connected with the world, particularly other European cities.I flew from London for €8! I use Skyscanner to get the best deals on flights. By car: Many tourists cross the Croatian border by car. To hire one in Zagreb and explore further afield, use Rentalcars.com. By bus: The Flixbus is the cheapest way to travel between cities in Europe.
Zagreb Top 15 Attractions » Visit and Experience Zagreb
Explore Zagreb's Top 15 Attractions. As a matter of fact, most of Zagreb's most popular attractions and sights are within walking distance. Zagreb has so much more to offer than the three top Zagreb attractions; Zagreb Cathedral, Mirogoj Cemetery , and Saint Marks Church. Such as the Museum of Broken Relationships or Dolac Farmers Market.
25 Wonderful Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia
The city became much more popular too, Zagreb tourism is booming, ... But the city is well worth a visit and the number of great Zagreb tourist attractions might be really surprising. The capital of Croatia can enchant with beautiful and impressive architecture, great museums, and many more Zagreb must see places, including alternative spots. ...
Zagreb travel
Croatia, Europe. Zagreb is made for strolling. Wander through the Upper Town's red-roof and cobblestone glory, peppered with church spires. Crane your neck to see the domes and ornate upper-floor frippery of the Lower Town's mash-up of secessionist, neo-baroque and art deco buildings. Search out the grittier pockets of town where ugly-bland ...
Must-see attractions Zagreb, Croatia
Pula. Discover the best attractions in Zagreb including Museum of Broken Relationships, Mirogoj, and Croatian Museum of Naïve Art.
Zagreb Attractions » Visit and Experience Zagreb
Zagreb has attractions and sights to suit every taste and interest. In fact, mostly all of them are within walking distance! With its 900 years rich history dating from the Roman times, Skip to content. ... Some of Zagreb's most popular local spots are not included in the top tourist spots. The city itself creates unforgettable moments in ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Zagreb (Updated 2024)
Top Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia: See Tripadvisor's 176,898 traveller reviews and photos of Zagreb tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in April. We have reviews of the best places to see in Zagreb. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
Top things to do in Zagreb
While a visit to those Zagreb Croatia points of interest is a must-do, we recommend that you seek out Zagreb tourist attractions beyond the few obvious ones. So, here are our suggestions for what to see in Zagreb downtown. Jelacic Square, Zagreb's main square, is the starting point for exploring the downtown. The square is huge, with lovely ...
15 Best Things to Do in Zagreb (Croatia)
Two attractions in the Horseshoe include the Botanical Garden, collecting 10,000 plant species from around the world, and the elaborate Croatian National Theatre, Zagreb's premier venue for ballet, opera and drama. 12. Jarun Lake. Source: Viktoriya Krayn / shutterstock.
Ultimate Zagreb Itinerary
NB - Most of Zagreb tourist attractions are located within two of the city's 17 districts namely the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and Lower Town (Donji Grad). The most practical way to explore Zagreb is to break up the two sections and divide your time to each area accordingly. 1. Take a Zagreb Walking Tour
Zagreb Travel Guide: Plan Your Trip to Zagreb, Croatia
The distance from Zagreb to Rovinj is 260 km and it takes 2:30 hours of driving; Split is 410 km away and a 4-hour drive, Dubrovnik is 600 km away and about 6 hour drive (depending on border crossing in Neum) while Osijek is 280 km and 3 hours of driving from Zagreb.
Zagreb
There's even an early bird tour (starting at 6/7am!) in summer, as well as a forest tour/ride on MTB bikes for those who like the more adventurous side of things! University of Zagreb Founded in 1699. Walk Zagreb Walking tours with Inga Juraga, a fully licensed city guide. Zagreb Live Webcam of Trg ban Jelacic.
3 Days in Zagreb, Croatia: A Complete Travel Itinerary
Zagreb city is the capital city of Croatia but is often overlooked by tourists to the country for Croatia's more scenic and holiday-like destinations along the Adriatic Coast. We're all for clear waters, beautiful beaches and great seafood but Zagreb has a lot to offer and should be considered for your next trip. Spending 3 days in Zagreb, Croatia allows visitors the perfect opportunity to ...
Visit Zagreb
Zagreb is among Europe's best destinations Visit Zagreb, your local travel guide, helps you through your Zagreb experience. Top Attractions Explore Zagreb's Top Attractions. Find
Zagreb Tourism (2024): All You Need to Know Before You Go
These days, Zagreb is the heart of contemporary Croatia's culture, art, sports, and academics, but its history is not forgotten. The unique blend of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, open-air markets, and ancient cathedrals, make Zagreb the perfect city to explore. Zagreb Tourism: Tripadvisor has 1,76,898 reviews of Zagreb Hotels ...
Zagreb, Croatia 2023: Best Places to Visit
These days, Zagreb is the heart of contemporary Croatia's culture, art, sports, and academics, but its history is not forgotten. The unique blend of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, open-air markets, and ancient cathedrals, make Zagreb the perfect city to explore. Zagreb Tourism: Tripadvisor has 175,314 reviews of Zagreb Hotels ...
20 BEST Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia In 2024
Before I dive into more details about the best Zagreb tourist attractions, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions. WHERE IS ZAGREB? Croatia is part of central and southwest Europe, and Zagreb in its turn is located in the northwest part of Croatia, just 30km away from the border with Slovenia.
Tourism in Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb - the City with a Heart The impressions of many foreigners who live in Zagreb, business people and tourists can be summed up in a single sentence: a large city which managed to stay romantic and safe. There are unlimited possibilities for visiting music and theatre events, art exhibitions, museums, sporting events and enjoying pleasant walks, interesting architecture, plentiful parks in ...
Zagreb Travel Guide
Zagreb is Croatia's capital city and despite the country being a tourist hotspot, the city is still rather unknown to travelers as most opt to flock to the turquoise waters of Croatia's coastline ...
15 Safe and Affordable European Cities That Retirees Love
Zagreb is a very safe city if you take precautions against the local pickpockets. ... but many cities are unattainably expensive and can be dangerous in dense tourist destinations. Palermo, Sicily ...

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Zagreb

1. Take a Stroll through Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad)

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More markets

10. People-watch on Tkalčićeva Street

11. Buy souvenirs (cravats and truffles) on Radićeva

12. Ride the tiny funicular to Upper Town

13. Grič Tunnel

14. Soak up views from Strossmayer Promenade

15. The Lotrščak Tower – climb for sunset views

16. Catch a show at the National Theatre

17. Zagreb 360° Observation Deck – temporarily closed in 2024

18. Admire the Oktagon

19. Learn about the 1990s war

20. Relax in Park Maksimir

Foodie things to do in Zagreb

21. Try štrukli (cheese heaven)

22. The coffee scene

23. Try truffles

24. Take a food tour

25. Sample Croatian tapas at Heritage

26. Meat coma at Pri Zvoncu

27. Try Bosnian/Serbian food

Unusual things to do in Zagreb

28. Find street art

29. Kaptol Boutique Cinema & Bar

30. Mirogoj Cemetery

Take day trips from Zagreb

31. Plitvice Lakes

32. Truffle hunting in Istria

What NOT to do in Zagreb

The Museum of Hangovers

Ride the tram in the wrong direction

Go for a coffee at Booksa

Where to stay in Zagreb

How to get around Zagreb

Is Zagreb solo travel friendly?

Thanks for reading!

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25 Wonderful Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia

Why visit Zagreb

How many days for visiting Zagreb?

How to get to Zagreb

How to get around Zagreb

Things to do in Zagreb

Admire the beautiful architecture of the Lower Town

Wander around the Upper Town

Ride one of the shortest funiculars in the world

Visit the Cathedral

Stop at the Stone Gate

Shop at Dolac market

Visit Mirogoj cemetery

Look at Zagreb from above

Visit museums

Learn more about the 1990s war

Check out the local cafes

Find street art

Track down Zagreb Solar System

Marvel at the Oktogon

Shop at the flea market

Walk through the Grič Tunnel

Enjoy the culinary scene

Buy local souvenirs