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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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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

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

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.

Read next: Zagreb street art guide

Take a street art tour of Zagreb with a local guide .

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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• Things to do in Trogir, Split
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• 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
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• How to visit Bosnia & Herzegovina from Dubrovnik
• What to do & see in Zadar
• A day trip to Pag Island from Zadar, Croatia
• Things to do on Dugi Otok, Croatia

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

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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!

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A guide to the city of Zagreb, Croatia's intriguing capital

Croatia’s beguiling capital offers a heady mix of Western Balkan heritage, proud coffee culture and outdoor markets selling produce from the encircling Dinaric Alps.

Locals like to say Zagreb is a big town disguised as a small city. Its laid-back rhythm and leafy charm is apparent from the first moment visitors set out into the Croatian capital. Residents, up with the sun, make a beeline for outdoor markets to visit their trusted butchers and favoured vendors, whose produce — a rainbow of fruit and vegetables, just-baked cornbread, rows of fragrant honey — is largely drawn from the surrounding countryside. A diverse citizenry of designers, businesspeople, musicians, artists and catholic nuns pass each other on the main square, walking to their respective workplaces; people, young and old, gather on terraces for rakija (schnapps) and kava (super-strength coffee) at all hours. Early evening, families promenade city streets and piazzas to catch up with neighbours. It’s easy to believe you’ve just discovered the very essence of European life. Wedged into the Dinaric Alps, Zagreb is a two-hour drive from the Adriatic coast and it’s this remarkable geography that lends the city its unique character. The city’s strength comes from its amalgam of European sensibilities; a place where Mediterranean vibes and Slavic Continental climes combine. But such are the coastal riches of Croatia that its chief city — home to around 800,000 people — is often treated as a stopover for visitors on their way to the sea.   No matter. What lingering travellers quickly find is that this is a city that takes care of its own. Cafes spill across squares and streets, because Purgers (as folks from Zagreb call themselves) like to luxuriate over multi-hour, coffee-fuelled conversations. Museums and galleries display world-class collections to accommodate local tastes,   and the capital’s stages showcase productions for discerning native theatregoers. This isn’t a city that goes out of its way to cater for tourists, and it’s all the more beguiling for it. The key is for travellers to lean into the rhythms of local life. Stretching north from the Sava River to the foothills of the Dinaric Alps, Zagreb’s neighbourhoods offer eclectic rows of architecture from secessionist and neo-baroque to gothic brutalist and beyond. But it’s the proliferation of parks, gardens and leafy hills that dominate Zagreb’s landscape, coming into spectacular bloom in spring but hosts for festivals year-round. With its easy, natural charm Zagreb isn’t a city that tries hard to win visitors over — so it’s almost quite likely, therefore, that it will.

What to see and do

Green Horseshoe :   Take a sightseeing stroll from the 19th-century, neoclassical central train station, Glavni kolodvor, to   the main square, Ban Jelačić Square. From there, follow the aptly named ‘Green Horseshoe’ of parks and sites that wrap around Donji Grad, or Lower Town. As trams rumble by, you’ll pass the art deco Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, built in 1925 to accommodate Orient Express passengers. Next door, the Zagreb Botanical Garden and its 10,000 plant species provide a peaceful oasis. The last stretch takes you through Zrinjevac Park, for regular live music sessions in the bandstand, surrounded by vibrant flowerbeds. Zagreb Cathedral : It’s full name being the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the city’s top photo op stands on the spot where Zagreb was founded — an 11th-century bishopric known as Kaptol. Today’s neo-gothic cathedral — dating from 1880 — is the latest of several constructed over the ensuing millennium. It’s famed for its two 354ft spires, its goosebumps-inducing organ, with nearly 6,100 pipes, and for being the final resting place of beatified Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac.  

Upper Town : Historically, Zagreb’s hilltop Upper Town, Gradec, was the merchant yin to Kaptol’s religious yang. Today, Gradec’s medieval spirit endures as you walk its tangle of cobbled streets, where gas lamps are still hand-lit every evening. After passing through the district’s Stone Gate — the last of four original, 13th-century entrances — you’ll find the Croatian Parliament en route to the showstopper: St Mark’s Church. This architectural masterpiece — a mix of romanesque and gothic styles — contains exquisite sculptures and is topped by roof whose colourful tiles depict the coat of arms of Zagreb and the historic Kingdom of Croatia-Slavonia.  

Where to visit

Tkalčićeva Street : Or simply Tkalča, was once a creek dividing Kaptol and Gradec. These days, that waterway is a pedestrian-only promenade and the centre of Zagreb’s social scene. The row of two-storey, pastel-coloured buildings is an atmospheric place for a bite or a be — a backdrop for buskers, evening strollers, shoppers and lively social gatherings.  

Museums and galleries : The Museum of Contemporary Art, south of the river, is a celebration of multimedia installations, imagination and societal commentary via a 12,000-strong collection. Zagreb City Museum, set in the cavernous former 17th-century Convent of the Clares in the Upper Town, explores the city’s history from prehistory onwards, while the nearby Museum of Broken Relationships displays painful, sweet and humorous items   donated following failed romances.   Medvednica :   After getting to know the Croatian capital on foot, head up to 3,396ft Medvednica (‘bear mountain’) for clear-day views that stretch as far as Slovenia, Hungary and the Adriatic coast. One of Zagreb’s most seductive qualities is its proximity to open countryside, and this peak, in the north of the city, is one of the most accessible spots, its slopes (part of Medvednica Nature Park) offering scores of hikes for trekkers of all abilities.

How to live like a local

Špica: It seems the whole of Zagreb wakes early on Saturdays, flexes its collective fashion muscle and lounges at cafes in the centre to see and be seen. This weekend strut is known as špica. Pull on your best threads, take your špica waltz down Ilica Street, then duck into   Eli’s Caffe for the city’s best kava. Owner and roaster Nik Orosi has turned a cup of coffee into an art form.   Gric Tunnel : This protective measure, built during the Second World War, runs under the city centre and serves as an occasional art venue. Emerge from Art Park Entrance 1 (one of multiple access points), and you’ll come face to face with two city landmarks: the Zagreb Funicular, which connects Upper and Lower Towns, and the Lotrščak Tower, with its Grič cannon, which is fired daily at noon.   Croatian National Theatre : Zagreb is a city of theatregoers, who pack out its performance venues every night. A highlight is the 19th-century, neo-baroque Croatian National Theatre; anchoring the western arm of the Green Horseshoe, it stages drama, ballet and opera.

Where to shop

Croata :   Purgers are fashionable. Shop the look with hyper-local adornments like the necktie, invented in Croatia centuries ago and seen in adventurous iterations at this world renown emporium, which also stocks scarfs in unique designs.  

Dora : This boutique is located in Gradec, between the Stone Gate and St Mark’s Church. Owner Dora Rubić creates bespoke women’s clothing, with a focus on coats and dresses. Using natural fabrics such as cashmere and alpaca wool, she only produces around 200 pieces a year.   Outdoor Markets : To really shop local, visit Zagreb’s open-air markets. Climb the steps behind Ban Jelačić Square to reach Dolac Market, whose expanse of red umbrellas covers vendors selling fruit, vegetables, cheese, nuts, honey and liqueurs — accompanied by a cornucopia of local knowledge. Head west along Ilica Street to British Square, where, on Sunday mornings, antique dealers hawk everything from jewellery to Yugoslav memorabilia.  

Where to eat

Broom 44: Spilling onto   Dolac Market, this classic brunch spot seamlessly blends alternative cool with   old-school hospitality, and, most importantly, its homemade vegan and vegetarian food — served on plates   thrown by a local potter — is divine.   Dolac 8, 10000.

Lari & Penati : Lari & Penati takes generous liberties with its fusion of Croatian and US fare, created using ingredients from nearby Dolac Market — accompanied by a sterling wine list. It’s impossible to go wrong with this menu, especially the marinated sea bass salad and the barbecue spare ribs.   Dubravkin Put : A short walk away from the main square, this retreat of a restaurant in Tuškanac Forest Park offers exemplary Zagreb fine dining: rustic but refined and replete with Croatian produce including fine home-grown wines. Expect seafood and specialities such as tuna tartar and slow-cooked veal cheeks with a morel sauce, served on white linen-clad tables both inside and outside on the lovely, leafy terrace.

Where to drink

Bornstein : For Croatian wine connoisseurs, Bornstein is something of a pilgrimage. Opened in 1900, the country’s oldest wine shop is a few minutes north of the cathedral and one of the best places for cheese and wine pairings, wine flights and tastings featuring reds, whites and sparkling wines representing Croatia’s generous number of terroirs.   Kavkaz : Upmarket cocktail bar, Kavkaz is, for a certain generation of Purgers, an institution. Overlooking the Croatian National Theatre, this was once the cafe for the intelligentsia. Following a period of decline, a 2018 revamp saw it once again among Zagreb’s most atmospheric drinking spots, perfect for ordering a Hugo spritz (sparkling wine, elderflower syrup, lime, mint), and people-watching.   Kulturni Centar Mesnicka : With a constant rotation of music nights — jazz, hip-hop, blues, funk — and eclectic patrons, any rendezvous at this popular spot, next to the Grič Tunnel, is certain to be eventful. The bar serves a great selection of rakija, so it’s best to rule out any morning-after responsibilities.

Where to stay

Hotel President Pantovcak : A true boutique hotel, each of the 10 rooms at the four-star President is uniquely decorated with art — both modern and antique — while the elegant lounge and garden terrace would be worth a visit in their own right. It’s in a great location, too: a five-minute walk from British Square, 15 minutes from the main square.  

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel : Esplanade is not only a hotel but also a city symbol, a landmark that is very much a part of Zagreb’s historic fabric. Built to wow Orient Express passengers in the 1920s, this art deco five-star with more than 200 rooms has withstood the test of time, shifting fashions, and travel trends.  

Hotel Republika : Located near the city centre at the edge of Tuškanac Forest, Hotel Republika, with its seven spacious apartments, is a great base for exploring both the countryside and the city. Best of all, because the ‘aparthotel’ is owned by the Croatian Hunting Association, the in-house restaurant menu includes scrumptious venison and boar dishes.  

Getting there & around From London, nonstop flights to Zagreb are offered by British Airways , Croatia Airlines , and Ryanair (the latter also flies from Manchester). Several European carriers fly from UK airports via their respective European hubs.    

Average flight time: 2h15m.

Compact and clearly laid out, walking or cycling is the best way to get around Zagreb. Like many things in the Croatian capital, bike hire is a bargain for most foreign visitors, as are guided tours: the 2.5-hour Zagreb Highlights itinerary with Blue Bike Zagreb costs from £33 per person.  

Trams are a great option for longer trips across the city: 4 kuna/£0.45 one-way. Bolt and Uber provide inexpensive taxi services to and from the airport and across the city.    

When to go With mild temperatures, Zagreb is an excellent choice year-round. April to June and September to November may be best for weather (averaging around 20C), but the city throws a wonderful Advent festival from December to January. Summer — often empty, as many locals head to the coast — has a relaxed, city-to-yourself beauty, although some businesses may be closed. infozagreb.hr/events

More Info Zagreb Tourist Board Visit Zagreb

How to do it British Airways Holidays offers two nights, room-only, at the Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre, including flights, from £149.  

Published in the May 2022 issue of   National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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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.

See also: Where to Stay in Zagreb

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.

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.

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Exploring the Dalmatian Coast : The Dalmatian Coast is Croatia's most popular tourist area. Here, you will find the country's most impressive medieval town, Dubrovnik, which also served as the set for some Game of Thrones episodes. For more on exploring this amazing city, check out our article on the top attractions in Dubrovnik . Another top destination on this stretch of coastline is the dynamic city of Split. For more on how to experience this historical city, see our article on the top tourist attractions in Split .

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Must-see attractions in Zagreb

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Dolac Market

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Funicular Railway

This very short, and steep, funicular railway line, constructed in 1888, connects the Lower and Upper Towns of Zagreb.

Croatian Association of Artists

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Lotrščak Tower

Lotrščak Tower was built in the middle of the 13th century to protect the south city gate. Normally you can enter and climb up to the top for a sweeping…

Trg Bana Jelačića

Zagreb’s main orientation point and its geographic heart is Trg Bana Jelačića – it's where most people arrange to meet up. If you enjoy people-watching,…

Archaeological Museum

Spread over three floors, the artefacts housed here stretch from the prehistoric era to the medieval age. The 2nd floor holds the most interesting – and…

Museum of Contemporary Art

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Maksimir Park

Maksimir Park is a peaceful wooded enclave covering 18 hectares, easily accessible by trams 11 and 12 from Trg Bana Jelačića. Opened to the public in 1794…

Jarun Lake in south Zagreb is a popular getaway for residents at any time of the year, but especially in summer, when the clear waters are ideal for…

St Mark’s Church

The 13th-century St Mark’s Church is one of Zagreb’s most emblematic buildings. Its colourful tiled roof, constructed in 1880, has the medieval coat of…

Katarinin Trg

One of the best views in town – across red-tile roofs towards the cathedral – is from this square behind the Jesuit Church of St Catherine. It's the…

Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

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Museum Mimara

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Officially called Trg Nikole Šubića Zrinskog but lovingly known as Zrinjevac, this verdant square is a major hang-out during sunny weekends and hosts pop…

Medika Diving & Technicolour Dream Murals

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Grič Tunnel

The mystery-laden Grič Tunnel that connects Mesnička and Radićeva streets opened to the public in the summer of 2016. Built in 1943 for use as a WWII air…

Galerija Klovićevi Dvori

Hosting a swath of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, this gallery, housed in a former Jesuit monastery, is among the city’s most prestigious art…

Croatian State Archives

Zagreb's most majestic art deco building, with massive owls of wisdom staring out from the corners of the roof, was built in 1913 to house the royal…

This private art collection, housed in a former textile-weaving mill in an industrial area of western Zagreb, provides an insight into Croatian…

City Museum

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Museum of Illusion

This quirky museum delivers a fantastic sensory adventure to visitors of all ages. Children in particular are in for a great time. The Slanted Room or the…

Meštrović Atelier

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Croatian Inventors Murals

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Fakin Mural

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Art Pavilion

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Gallery of Modern Art

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Gulliver Mural

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Botanical Garden

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Open My Eyes That I May See Mural

This 90m long montage-style mural by acclaimed Croatian street artist OKO brightens up the western side of the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Xenophora Mural

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City Waterfall Mural

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Museum of Art & Crafts

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Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters

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Make sure you take a peek at the Stone Gate, the eastern gate to medieval Gradec Town, which is now a shrine. According to legend, a great fire in 1731…

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Ethnographic Museum

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More destinations you need to see

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!

Accommodation in Zagreb

Use the search map/box below to search for hotels and rentals in Zagreb:

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!
• 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
• Zagreb Tourist Office with plenty of useful information on what to see and do

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Zagreb Attractions

Explore zagreb’s attractions. from both traditional, sacred and religious sites, to unusual and unique parks, art galleries, and museums..

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, you have a lot to see in Zagreb.

You may love Zagreb for its sights, but it is also thriving with delicious gastronomy. Some of Zagreb’s most popular local spots are not included in the top tourist spots. The city itself creates unforgettable moments in unexpected places.

During warm days, cafes set up terrace’s seating all over the city. Zagreb nourishes it’s coffee culture and days sometimes almost feel like a nightly street party.

You must find what interests you by yourself.

We want to help! Explore below to customize your perfect Zagreb vacation with attractions, sights, and museums sorted by categories. Or simply have a look at all Zagreb Attractions.

Top Attractions

Explore Zagreb’s Top Attractions. Find out what makes Zagreb stand out and what should not be missed.

Zagreb is filled with cultural goods and it is preserving our heritage.

Sights & Landmarks

900 years rich history complemented Zagreb with Sights and Landmarks.

Sacred & Religious Sites

Croatia has no official religion, but we cherish our Christianity and places of worship.

Green Zagreb

Filled with parks and green spaces you find relaxing spots at every corner.

Zagreb has the biggest number of museums per capita in the world!

Unusual & Unique

Stray from the path and locate Zagreb’s quirky, unusual and unique attractions.

Galleries & Art collections

Traditional or Contemporary, if you love art Zagreb has a lot to offer. Explore Zagreb’s Galleries and their current Exhibitions

Zagreb by Theme

Want to see Zagreb on a Budget, Romantic Zagreb or you are visiting Zagreb with kids.

See All Zagreb Attractions

Browse through a list of all Zagreb Attractions.

Croatian School Museum [History of Education]

Croatian School Museum displays around 1000 exhibits from Croatian school and teaching history. The only museum in Croatian specializing in education.

Bundek Park Zagreb [Family Picnic & Playground]

Bundek Park Zagreb, after its renovation in 2006, has become one of Zagreb’s favourite Parks and Promenades. A perfect place to spend a sunny day with friends and family!

Croatian National Theatre Zagreb [Ballet & Opera]

Croatian National Theatre is a neo-baroque Zagreb masterpiece established in 1895. Enjoy opera and ballet performances at affordable prices!

Zagreb ZOO [Animal Friendly little ZOO]

Zagreb ZOO is one of the best ZOO-s in this part of Europe! Amazing value and a great place to spend an afternoon with the kids!

Museum of Torture Zagreb – Tortureum

Museum of Torture was opened as a reminder of mankind history. In the first place, it represents the violence which arises from the fear of the unknown. You get to see, touch and try over 70 full-scale exhibits and share the fear of torture.

Museum of Contemporary Art [Best place for Modern Croatian Art]

Museum of Contemporary Art, also known as „Museum with the slides“. For Contemporary Art Lovers is a must-see, being the best place for Modern Croatian Art.

Tkalčićeva Street [Zagreb hub of Life and Tastes]

Tkalčićeva Street is the most beautiful vibrant street in Zagreb. In fact, it is filled with small boutiques, traditional shops, restaurants and cafes.

National University Library Zagreb [Place to Learn]

National University Library Zagreb is the largest University Library in Croatia. Croatian temple of knowledge with large collections of books, audio and video materials, and other similar media.

Ferdinand Budicki Automobile Museum

Ferdinand Budicki Automobile Museum showcases more than 100 exhibits. Numerous legendary old-timers, motorcycles and bicycles.

Maksimir Park [Beautiful and Peaceful]

Maksimir Park is the greatest masterpiece of garden architecture in Croatia. Preserving its hundred-year-old oak forests to this day it is a great place to escape the city lifestyle.

Veternica Cave [Zagreb Bat Cave]

Veternica Cave is the oldest Zagreb archaeological site. That is to say, within its dark caverns it keeps the secrets of past life. From the Neanderthal, Romans and medieval robbers to contemporary adventurers.

Zagreb Upper Town [Oldest part of Zagreb]

Zagreb Upper Town is a network of cobblestone streets that stretch between two hills, Kaptol and Gradec. Explore some of Zagreb's most interesting attractions, restaurants, bars and cafes.

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Top things to do in Zagreb

Croatian capital city, and the largest business, political, and student center in Croatia, Zagreb offers so many things to do for locals and tourists alike. Unlike its coastal counterparts, Zagreb lives all year round .

When Vera and I lived in Zagreb, we loved strolling the Upper town, cycling Jarun Lake, or hiking to the Sljeme Mount.

We also enjoyed having a coffee downtown, picnicking in Maksimir Park, going for a day to Samobor, or for a lunch to the villages dotting the hills of Zagorje.

There are seriously so many things to do in Zagreb, that you’ll quickly want to extend your stay here.

Zagreb is vibrant. It is flat and thus a perfect place for long strolls or for cycling. Zagreb is relatively small compared to other European capitals. And, it has lots of parks and even forests within the city limits.

Table of Contents

Our top recommendations for what to do in Zagreb

If you have no time to read the entire blog, or if you are in Zagreb just for a day, put on your list these 5 things to do.

• Explore Upper Town
• Visit Downtown
• Take one of Secret Zagreb Walks
• Have a coffee in one of Zagreb’s charming cafes

22 awesome things to do in Zagreb

Zagreb is a lovely city, with laid back atmosphere, strong coffee culture, pedestrian-only town center, great bistro-style restaurants, green markets, an interesting craft beer scene, good downtown shopping, and stripes of bars and cafes at every corner.

We hope that you will enjoy your time in Zagreb!

Explore Upper town

The upper town is my favorite part of Zagreb. Here you will find some of Zagreb’s top sights. This part of town is exactly what its name suggests: it’s a part of the town perched on the slopes of the Medvednica Mountain. Along with Kaptol, this is the oldest part of the town. Remains of town walls and towers that surrounded the Upper Town in medieval times are still preserved.

Zagreb’s upper town is a truly romantic part of Zagreb . It’s never overcrowded, and the traffic here is limited. It’s full of historical landmarks, secret passages, small museums, art galleries, and fun bars. You’ll also find here a Croatian Parliament building.

Zagreb’s Upper town features some of Zagreb’s top attractions: the Lotrscak tower, Stone gate (Kamenita Vrata), St. Marc Church, Museum of Broken relationship, Stross promenade, the Mestrovic Atelier, the Klovicevi Dvori gallery.

But besides all those obvious sights and landmarks, Zagreb’s Upper town is famed for its secret sights, many courtyards tucked away from the main streets behind unassuming facades. Two events particularly celebrate this side of the upper town: Secrets of Grič, and Dvorišta.

Another event that highlights the hidden side of Zagreb’s upper town is simply called Dvorišta , meaning Courtyards in Croatian. It takes place in mid-July, for nine days. With the motto “each courtyard has its story”, this event offers visitors a chance to experience part of the town that is usually shut behind facades, and doors. Participating courtyards are properly decorated and lighted, and each one feature live music, drinks, and snacks.

Walking tours

Iva Silla of Secret Zagreb Walks offers also interesting tours of the upper town that reveal another side of Zagreb. Their most interesting tours are the Private Zagreb Walking Tour , and Zagreb Ghosts & Dragons Tour .

Recommended tours:

• Walking Tour of Zagreb with Funicular Ride
• Old Town Zagreb Bike Tour

Don’t miss downtown Zagreb

Downtown Zagreb is perhaps the town’s area where you will spend most of your time in Zagreb. However, don’t limit your visit to the main square and a few streets around it. 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 buildings surrounding it on all four sides. The majority of buildings date back to the 19 th century and feature different architectural styles: from post-modernism, Art Nouveau, and Biedermeier.

Many trams pass through the main square, connecting different Zagreb neighborhoods. Climb up the skyscraper in Ilica 1 for awesome 360° views of Zagreb, go to the chocolate & candy store Kras for some sweet souvenirs to bring back home, make a wish at Mandusevac fountain, or dance a night away in Johann Franck Club.

Tkalciceva Street

Once a creek that separated two towns: Kaptol, and Gradec, Tkalciceva Street , or Tkalca as locals call it, is a lovely pedestrian street lined with cafes, restaurants, and small shops on both sides of the street.

Many of these businesses are housed in small historical houses of different colors. And it just adds to the charm of Tklaciceva Street. The street starts just behind the main Jelacic Square and goes all the way to Kaptol Center.

Stroll up and down Tkalciceva, take photos, climb up to Dolac Market, and have breakfast or a leisurely lunch at Otto and Frank   (Tkalciceva 20). Taste a local beer at Mali Medo (Tkalciceva 36), jazz it up in Melin (Kozarska 16; just above Tkalciceva), take a flight of local brandies at Rakhia Bar (Tkalciceva 45), or enjoy some blues and rock at Booze and Blues Bar (Tkalciceva 84).

Bogoviceva Street and Flowers’ Square

Bogoviceva Street is another downtown street full of cafes. It’s the ultimate see-and-be-seen Zagreb spot, particularly so on Saturday between 10 am and 1 pm.

Cvjetni Trg (Flower’s Square) is called so due to the few flower stalls you can find there. The square is also filled with cafes, bars, casual eateries, and a shopping mall. Zagreb Orthodox Cathedral, constructed in 1865, and Oktogon, a covered passageway that connects Flower’s Square with Ilica, can be found here too.

East downtown consists of a few interesting streets and neighborhoods, particularly Mestrovic Pavillon (Dzamija), Vlaska Street, and Marticeva Street.

Vlaska Street

A long street starting right behind the main square, and going east all the way to Kvaternik Square, Vlaska Street consists of two parts: Old Vlaska (the part from the main square to Draskoviceva Street), and new Vlaska (further east from Draskoviceva).

This street is a bit rough around the edges but it’s full of interesting courtyards, hidden restaurants, and lovely bars. Don’t miss having a coffee at Finjak , the most instagrammable café in Zagreb, tasting one of the best pizzas in town at the pizzeria Karijola , or having a yummy lunch at Mali Bar , one of our favorite restaurants.

Marticeva Street

Marticeva Street runs parallelly with Vlaska, from Croatian National Bank all the way to Kvaternik Square.

Not so long ago, Marticeva was nothing but a somber street full of car dealerships, and car parts shops, but today the street is very popular among designers, hipsters, artists, and writers.

Hang out at Booksa , a cool bar for books aficionados, and check out Zagreb’s awesome modernist buildings – Wooden Skyscraper in Marticeva , and the colorful Vitic skyscraper in nearby Laginjina Street, have a coffee at trendy Program Bar, or in a creative Mr. Frog Bar , or have a bite in nearby Noel Restaurant (Popa Dukljanina Street).

If you happen to be in Zagreb in mid-June, don’t miss the Design District Festival that takes place in and around Marticeva Street. The festival celebrates local creative communities and businesses from the neighborhood. The program includes jazz, yoga, and meditation on the rooftop, a furniture exhibition, various workshops, architecture-focused guided tours, etc…

Ilica Street

Ilica is one of the oldest and longest Zagreb streets. It’s almost 6 km long, and it stretches from the main square all the way to Crnomerec to the northwest.

This busy street is full of shops; many high streets fashion stores, like Zara, Mango, and many shoe stores like Echo, or Geox are located closer to the main square, but as you continue along Ilica further from the downtown, all kinds of shops emerge.

Have an ice cream at Vincek (Ilica 18), buy original Croatian souvenirs at the Take Me Home Design Shop (Tomiceva 4, just off Ilica Street), and have a funicular ride to the Upper Town (Tomiceva, just off Ilica Street). Taste the best coffee in town at the Eliscaffe (Ilica 63), enjoy awesome food at the Soi Fusion Bar (Ilica 50), or visit the Museum of Illusions (Ilica 72).

Also, don’t forget to visit Nama, the only department store In Zagreb you have to visit even if you don’t plan to buy anything. The store is a bit old-fashioned but it still features many Art Nouveau details like stained glass, and wrought-iron railings, dating back to the times when it was built, in the early 20th century.

Visit the museum of Broken relationships

A Museum of Broken Relationships has gained lots of attention ever since it was created, first as a traveling exhibition back in 2006, and since 2011 as a museum with a permanent location in Zagreb’s Upper Town.

This museum is exactly what its names suggests; all items featured here are relics of broken relationships. Each item is accompanied by a story: some funny, others sad.

It is quirky and fun, and it takes less than an hour to wander through everything. They even have a little bar to have a drink, charge your phone or check your mail (yes, they’ve got complimentary WiFi internet).

And don’t go there empty-handed.

Contacts:   Cirilometodska 2, Zagreb | tel: +385 1 485 1021 | e: [email protected] | Website

Admision:  Adults: €7 ($7.7, £6) | Students & Seniors: €5.5 ($6, £4.8)

Working hours: Jun-Sept: 9 am-10 pm daily | Oct-May: 9 am-9 pm daily | Closed on Christmas, New Year’s Day, Easter, and All Saints’ Day

Shop at Zagreb’s farmers’ market(s)

Zagreb got its first farmers’ market back in 1890, and ever since the markets remain “the belly of the neighborhoods”. I’ve read somewhere that there are 28 green markets in Zagreb. They are an integral part of the Zagreb lifestyle. Vibrant, noisy, and lively, they are the best places to feel a local vibe.

The most popular farmers’ market is Dolac . Centrally located, just behind the main square, Dolac spreads over two floors. The upper level features an open-air green market, souvenirs, and clothes stand, an enclosed fish market, bars, and restaurants mostly serving fast food or marenda . The ground level is enclosed and it features butcheries, bakeries, specialty food stores, and my favorite part – a dairy section.

Our tip : In the down section, from the main entrance, head straight to the diary section, all the way to the right. Here old women sell their homemade cheese, cream, and awesome cornbread.

Another popular farmers’ market in Zagreb is  Britanac. It’s only two tram stations from the main square direction East (tram no. 1, 6, or 11). Britanac feels much more intimate than Dolac. Maybe it’s due to the fact that the market is actually in the middle of a town’s square (Britanski Trg), or the wear-and-tear look of the buildings surrounding it, but Britanac is the kind of place where people feel good. Every Sunday the antique market takes place on Britanac.

Our tip: Have a specialty coffee at the Eliscaffe.

Other popular markets are  Kvatric  and  Tresnjevka.

Strolling green markets should be high on your list of things to do in Zagreb!

Explore Zagreb parks and forests

Zagreb has lots of green areas, parks, and forests within the city limits. And walking in the park is always a good idea when thinking of what to do in Zagreb.

In downtown, make sure to follow the Lenuci’s horseshoe . This unique urban complex consists of seven landscaped town squares and a botanical garden. Lenuci was a lead architect on the project, and he gave a horseshoe shape to this urban complex. Thus, the name is Lenuci’s Horseshoe.

The most popular landscaped squares are Zrinjevac (if you are in Zagreb during a Christmastime don’t miss a great entertainment program on Zrinjevac and Strossmayer Square), and Trg Kralja Tomislava (right across the central train station).

Check the Google map below with all the parks and forests in Zagreb!

Located east of downtown, Maksimir  is Zagreb’s oldest (opened in 1794) and largest public park. It’s also home to the town’s ZOO. The first part of Maksimir is a classical, landscaped park with a wide central promenade, five artificial lakes, creeks, and meadows. The second part of the park consists of original, natural forests. Maksimir is very popular among locals, especially in spring .

One of my favorite parts of Zagreb is the natural forests starting already downtown and girdling the northern neighborhoods. I recommend you take a walk in some of them. Some, like Tuskanac,  or Dubravkin put , you can reach within a 10-minute walk from the main square.

Other popular forest parks in Zagreb are Zelengaj, Cmrok, Jelenovac, Prekrizje, and Pantovcak.

Other parks in Zagreb are Bundek , Lake Jarun , and Medvednica .

Sip a coffee … for hours

Nowhere, but really nowhere, is the coffee culture so strong, so obvious, and so important as it is in Zagreb. You’ll notice this social phenomenon as soon as you start exploring the town.

Beautiful outdoor terraces are fitted with sun umbrellas during the summer, and heaters during the winter, and they are always full regardless of the time of day you pass by. If you get to know any local, (s)he will certainly invite you for a cup of coffee. You can order anything else, it’s just that the word coffee  here somehow got the meaning of the word  drink .

The main spots in Zagreb to have a coffee are Tkalciceva Street, Bogoviceva Street, and Cvjetni Trg. And while you should definitely visit them, our favorite cafes aren’t located on these streets.

If you prefer to join locals in your quest to discover perfect Zagreb cafes, you can check out this guided Zagreb tour .

Go for brunch

Brunch is one of the things that Zagreb does right! Whether you are a late riser in search of a late morning booster, an early riser who simply can’t wait for lunch hour, a hangover cure searcher, or just someone who wants it all on the menu: granola and smoothie bowls, croissants, and warm pies, but also crave Cesar salad, eggs, and well, why not, barbeque toast, and quiche Lorraine, Zagreb’s there to deliver!

Brunch is very popular in Zagreb, especially on weekends. And Zagreb has plenty of great brunch spots to choose from. Here is the full Zagreb brunch list!

Hit the clubs

We’ll be honest … not the right people to talk about Zagreb nightlife, but nevertheless, we’ll share a few things we know.

I wouldn’t consider Zagreb as truly a party town, that you’ll find more east, like in Belgrade, or Prague. But, the nightlife in Zagreb is still decent. No matter what kind of music you like, or what kind of party you enjoy, you’ll find your place at Zagreb’s night scene.

Generally, people start a bar crawl in bars located downtown, particularly on Tkalciceva Street.

Later they usually hit clubs either downtown or at Lake Jarun. Popular nightclubs are Sax, Vintage Industrial Bar, Gallery, and Aquarius.

One of the ways to feel Zagreb’s bar scene is to book an organized bar crawl tour.

And if you love beer, head to our post about the  best places to have a beer in Zagreb .

Cycle at Lake Jarun

Lake Jarun is an artificial lake located in the western part of the town. People of Zagreb love this lake, and it’s one of the most popular recreational areas in the town. The lake is also a popular clubbing place after dark.

You can jog, walk or cycle around the lake; you can swim in the lake during the summer, or have a picnic. If you are staying in Zagreb for more than a day, it’s always a good idea to explore the town beyond its center.

Lake is easily reachable from the city center. Just hop on tram no. 17 or no. 5 and they will get you to the lake in no time.

Recommended tour: Zagreb Big Tour

Eat your way through Zagreb

I. Love. Restaurants. In. Zagreb. Being the capital of Croatia, Zagreb really has an excellent restaurant scene.

The big trend lately is small, bistro-style restaurants serving fresh food based on seasonal ingredients. Burgers also seem to be in fashion in the last few years. Although not fast food burgers, fancy and juicy mini burgers are served by trendy restaurants. Asian fusion, sushi, and ramen are also popular menu items in Zagreb’s restaurants.

Lunch is still the no. 1 meal in Croatia. For example, when we stay at my in-laws, we always have a big lunch, while for dinner we’ll just eat leftovers or a sandwich. Zagreb isn’t different! And since many people are at work during lunchtime, many restaurants offer a cheap (around €6-€8 / $6.6-$8.8 / £5.2-£7), simple but delicious, and homemade lunch menu (called gablec in Zagreb). We’ve put together a list of the  best restaurants to have lunch in Zagreb . You can also check our post on  must-try restaurants in Zagreb .

• Taste Zagreb Food Tour
• Zagreb Private Food Tour

Visit museums

Whether you are an art & history buff or bluff, when planning what to do in Zagreb, consider visiting some of Zagreb’s museums and art galleries.

Museum of Broken Relationships

The Museum of Broken Relationships is quirky. Besides, it’s small and it has a nice café with WiFi, a good selection of coffees and teas, and homemade cookies. So you really have no excuse to skip visiting at least this one when in Zagreb (see above for more details).

Croatian Museum of Naive Art

Right across the street from the Museum of Broken Relationships, you’ll find the Croatian Museum of Naive Art. This is apparently the world’s first museum of naive art.

It displays paintings of Croatian naive artists, including works of Ivan Generalic, Franjo Mraz, and Mirko Virius, founders of Croatian naive art. It would take you max. half an hour to visit. The staff is very informative and eager to answer all your questions.

Admission fee: €5.5 ($6, £5.20) for adults | Students: €3 ($3.30, £2.60) | Children below 15: free

Working hours: Mo – Fri: 10 am – 5 pm

Mestrovic’s Atelier

This museum remains closed for renovation since March 2022 until further notice.

Tucked away in a former Mestrovic family house, in Zagreb’s Upper Town, you’ll find Mestrovic’s Atelier. Ivan Mestrovic was one of the top sculptors of the 20th century. Even Rodin called him a genius. The atelier features his works but also shows family history through documentation, photos, and furniture. His works are displayed in each room, but also in the lovely garden. Local tip : There is a lack of detailed information on the artist and his work, especially in English. It’s worth bringing with you your own guidebook.

Klovicevi Dvori Gallery

The Klovicevi Dvori Gallery is probably the most popular art gallery in Zagreb. It’s home to many traveling world exhibits once they arrive in Zagreb. Besides that, another interesting gallery, although a bit worn out, is Mestrovic Pavillon, located downtown, only two tram stations from the main square (tram no. 1, 17).

Technical Museum

Technical Museum, maybe bears a boring name but has interesting items on display, especially for children, and technical geeks. The main floor is dedicated to transport with a display of old cars, trains, planes, and trams, as well as models of different ships and boats. Smaller rooms and balcony feature firefighting equipment, mock-ups of satellites and spacecraft, and even mining equipment including a mine shaft. The highlight of the visit is a scheduled demonstration of Tesla’s electrical feats and discoveries. This is one of the great things to do in Zagreb with children.

Lauba House For People and Art

A contemporary art gallery, located in a former textile mill, Lauba is a privately-owned gallery, opened in 2011 with Tomislav Klicko’s private art collection. Since then, it has become a creative place and exhibition space for many Croatian and international contemporary artists. Although it’s located off the main tourist sites, Lauba is an interesting place to visit: the interior is lovely, temporary exhibitions change regularly, and there is a nice bistro with very decent food.

Museum of Chocolate

Located in Varsavska Street, in the heart of Zagreb’s Lower Town, the Chocolate Museum in Zagreb makes you experience the taste of different types of chocolate, learn how to make a chocolate beverage, explore the world of chocolate, and discover the history of chocolate from the Aztecs to the chocolate factories of England and Belgium. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the delightful flavors of chocolate.

Museum of illusions

The Museum of Illusions is located on Ilica Street. Get lost in the maze of mirrors, watch people around you shrink or grow, and have fun with many other optical illusions and brain teasers. It’s rather small but in our opinion a great place to visit with kids.

Zagreb City Museum

Opened in 1907, Zagreb City Museum shows different aspects of life and development of Zagreb through history: from prehistoric to modern times. The museum is small and never crowded, but well laid out and with well-described items. A great place to start exploring Zagreb because it will make you understand it better.

Hike Medvednica Mountain

Hiking Medvjednica is one of the most popular things to do in Zagreb on weekends, at least for locals.

Medvednica Mountain is located north of Zagreb, and its slopes are an integral part of the town. There are many hiking trails on the Medvednica, but probably the most popular hike that locals take is up to the  Puntijarka mountain house, located at an elevation of 957 m, just below  Sljeme , the highest peak of Medvednica.

The hike literally starts in the town, from the last tram station all the way up (no.14 from the main square; and then a no.15). On weekends the trails get busy with locals. However, if you aren’t into hiking, you can also reach the summit by car or a city bus.

In Puntijarka you can have a simple traditional meal, like beans, roasted potatoes, or a delicious apple pie. And the prices are very affordable.

Another popular hiking trail (because it’s the least demanding, and close to the town) is the Miroslavec trail  that starts in Sestine and takes you to the Kraljicin Zdenac along and across the creek.

Kraljicin Zdenac  is a small pond. Next to it there ate plenty of wooden tables and benches for a picnic and a rest. A bit higher there is a mountain house Lugareva Kucica offering simple but delicious meals.

Other popular landmarks include remains of  Medvedgrad , a medieval fortified town; caves and springs, like Veternica and Zdencec; chapels and churches; and a hotel Tomislavac.

If you like to feel local, hiking should definitely be on your list of things to do in Zagreb.

Recommended tour:

• Medvednica Falconry Tour from Zagreb

Visit Zagreb Cathedral

It is nice, it is close to the main square. It has lots of Gothic architectural elements. The embalmed body of Cardinal Stepinac lies in a sarcophagus near the main altar. The interior is full of statues, paintings, and inscriptions in Slavic script. Check how Matt from Landlopers got genuinely surprised by it. In March 2020 after a strong earthquake, the Cathedral’s spire was damaged and taken down.

Visit Zagreb cemetery

This is actually a weird one. I would never visit cemeteries no matter how nice they are. The last cemeteries I visited were Paris and Varazdin. But I didn’t find it entertaining. Neither could I enjoy “the beauty”.

However, Zagreb cemetery is listed on Tripadvisor as the 10th of 204 attractions in Zagreb. Must be a reason. And there must be people different than me. The description on Tripadvisor says “This cemetery contains world-class artwork and atmosphere.” Atmosphere? Whatever. Well, here you have one of the quirkier things to do in Zagreb.

The cemetery is beautiful and well laid out with a monumental entrance, and a central part full of sculptures. You can visit the graves of many famous Croatians like Drazen Petrovic and Kresimir Cosic, famous Croatian basketball players, Ivo Tijardovic, Croatian composer, painter Edo Murtic, many other sportsmen, politicians, actors, and alike.

Bus no. 106 brings you up to Mirogoj from Kaptol (a bus stop near the Cathedral).

Visit Mirogoj on This Walking Tour!

360º Views of Zagreb

Climb to the 16th floor of the only high-rise on Zagreb’s Main Square and enjoy 360-degree views of the city. Open every day from 10 am to 11.45 pm. Besides the observation deck , there is a nice bar where you can have a drink while enjoying the views.

Skydiving in Zagreb

Dreaming of diving through the skies? Maybe Zagreb is the place to experience this adrenaline-pumping activity. Located at the Lucko sports airfield, Skydiving Zagreb offers tandem jumps from their Cessna planes. The jump is at around 3.000 m, with a free fall of about 30 to 50 seconds. It’ll set you back €199 ($220, £172).

Escape Games

There are a few companies in Zagreb offering this live game, with the Fox in a Box being the most popular. The game is intended for 2 to 5 people. Basically, you get clues, hints, and 60 minutes’ time to escape a zombie lab or a bunker and get yourself out using logic and teamwork. It costs €12 to €30 per person ($13.20-$33, £10.40-£26) depending on the number of players.

A day trip to Plitvice Lakes

A one-day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes is simply one of the best things to do in Zagreb. One of the most visited places in Croatia, the park consists of 16 lakes interconnected by many waterfalls and cascades. There is a total of 8 trails you can follow in the park. The hike can take anywhere from 2 up to 8 hours.

There are a few ways to visit Plitvice from Zagreb.

You can take a combo tour that includes a transfer from Zagreb to Split, as well as a visit to the Lakes. As such, it’s actually a pretty good deal. There is plenty of time to visit the lakes, and also to have lunch before proceeding to Split. For €130 ($143, £112) you get a door-to-door transfer from Zagreb to Split, as well as admission tickets for the Plitvice Lakes included in the price.

Save on your transfer and a trip to Plitvice Lakes by booking in advance! 

You can also visit Plitvice Lakes on your own , by car, or by bus that connects Zagreb with Plitvice Lakes. A one-way bus ticket costs anywhere between €10 and €15 ($11-$16.5, £8.70-£13). The ride takes 2h to 2.30h (depending on the line, and the number of stops in-between). You can check bus schedules here .

Another viable option is to book a group tour from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes. It takes a minimum of 2 persons to run the tour. The tour costs €79 ($88, £68) including transport and a guide but excluding entrance tickets that you need to buy in advance online. Click here for more info on a group tour to Plitvice Lakes.

Interested to know more? Read our Ultimate Plitvice Lakes Travel Guide .

Visit Ljubljana, Lake Bled and Postojna Cave

Slovenia is easily reachable from Zagreb. And if you don’t plan to visit it on its own, you can consider a day trip to Slovenia as one of the things to do in Zagreb.

The most popular sites in Slovenia include Ljubljana , the Slovenian capital city, then Lake Bled , a wonderful lake in the Julian Alps, and Postojna Cave , one of the largest karst cave systems in the region.

Ljubljana is only 140 km from Zagreb, and both, Lake Bled and Postojna Cave are 50 km away from Ljubljana. While theoretically, you can visit all three in a day, we suggest you stick to two; either Ljubljana and Lake Bled, or Ljubljana and Postojna Cave.

You can visit Slovenian highlights from Zagreb either on your own by car, or it might be just more convenient to visit them on a group tour. Prices of these coach tours differ, as some include certain admission fees, and others don’t. Double-check what is included in the price before booking.

• From Zabreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Tour
• Ljubljana & Postojna Cave Tour from Zagreb

Experience Trakoscan Castle and Varazdin

Trakoscan Castle dates back to the 13th century, and it lies on the shores of Trakoscan lake (the lake has been drained for cleaning and repairs, but the works should be finished in 2023). A visit to the castle makes a nice day trip from Zagreb. You get to see the castle, have a nice walk around the lake, and enjoy stunning views from some of the windows in the castle.

Today, the Trakoscan Castle houses a museum with a collection of photos, books, weaponry, furniture, paintings, and prints. The admission fee is €5 ($5.5, £4.4) per adult and €2.5 ($2.8, £2.20) for kids aged 7 to 18. The museum is open every day from 9 am to 4 pm (10 am to 6 pm from April to November).

Varazdin, on the other hand, is a small baroque town with beautiful architecture, lovely palaces from the 19th and 20th centuries, and one of the oldest city halls in Europe. Varazdin is also known for its park-like town cemetery.

Explore Plesivica by bike

Plesivica is a hilly wine-growing region halfway between Jastrebarsko and Samobor, about a 30-minute drive from Zagreb.

The region is perfect for hiking, cycling, and wine tasting. Some of the popular winemakers from the area are Tomac and Sember, both known for their sparkling wines and Korak wines . This region makes Croatia’s best sparkling wines.

We visited this region back in August 2022 for Vera’s birthday and we had a blast at the Korak Winery & Restaurant. Bernard Korak, the chef and one of the owners, creates amazing dishes, some of the best we tasted anywhere. We stayed at the Guesthouse Rezekov Podrum , a family-owned B&B we highly recommend. The owners are super friendly, the accommodation is clean, renovated, and comfortable, and the breakfast is excellent. Not to mention great and affordable rates. If you are staying in Zagreb and looking for an extraordinary food and wine experience, the Plesivica region is the must-visit. Also, you can consider stopping here for a night if you are transiting through the area.

The best way to see the region is by group tour or hiring a private driver. This way, you can sample as many wines as you want without worrying about driving.

Visit Samobor

Samobor is a gorgeous little town less than 30 km away from Zagreb. Famed for Krempita cake (cream puff pastry cake), its carnival, lovely architecture, and nice walks, Samobor is one of the most popular day trip destinations among people from Zagreb.

If you have a chance, plan a visit to Samobor. You can either do it by means of local buses or even on a bicycle. A one-way bus ticket costs around €4.5 ($5, £3.90).  Buses leave from Zagreb central bus station, but also from other stops along the way, such as Ljubljanica bus and tram stop, or Crnomerac.

You can also book a guided tour of Samobor to learn more about the town’s history and discover hidden gems.

Quick Zagreb Travel Guide

We’ve written an in-depth Zagreb travel guide , full of useful information for anybody planning a visit to the Croatian capital. However, if you just want a quick overview to plan your stay in Zagreb, below we give you a few suggestions about places to stay, recommended restaurants, best bars, public transport, and transfers.

Zagreb Accommodation

Here are our few suggestions for places to stay in Zagreb, from Zagreb hotels to apartment rentals and hostels.

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

If you don’t mind paying a little bit extra, this is the place to stay in Zagreb. Constructed in 1925 for passengers on the famed Orient Express, the hotel Esplanade still features many details of that Epoque, and it’s a true landmark of Zagreb. Click here for more info and availability.

Best Western Premier Hotel Astoria

This lovely hotel, located in downtown Zagreb, a short walk from the main square, features 98 rooms and 2 suites. Rooms bear classic design, with carpeted floors and a bit dated decor, however, they are comfy, clean, and well-appointed. The staff is friendly, and the overall atmosphere is convivial and laid-back. Rich breakfast, top location, and private parking make this hotel a favorite among visitors to Zagreb. More info and the latest prices …

Modern, design hotel, located next to the main bus station, hotel 9 offers spacious rooms with comfy king beds. The staff is super-friendly. Click here for the latest prices .

Jagerhorn hotel

Located in a courtyard, just off the Ilica Street, hotel Jägerhorn first opened back in 1827. It is Zagreb’s oldest operating hotel. It’s a 3-star property with clean and comfy rooms and friendly staff. Parking is off-site. More info …

B&B Fotic

This lovely bed & breakfast located in downtown Zagreb offers only three rooms, each of them with an en-suite bathroom. B&B Fotic also features a lovely onsite bistro. Click here for the latest prices and availability.

THE City Lodge – Boutique Apartments

THE City Lodge – Boutique Apartments offers various studio apartments in the heart of the city, just a few minutes away from the main square. All studios are modern, and well-equipped, including the fully-equipped kitchen in each of them. A great alternative to hotels, if you long for more space, cheaper stay, and flexible eating hours in the heart of the city. Click here for more info and prices of THE City Lodge Apartments.

Tesla Boutique Apartments

Located in the heart of Zagreb, in Teslina Street, Tesla Boutique Apartments consists of three apartments that can accommodate two to four persons. Apartments are brand new, fully-equipped, with all modern cons, including WiFi. Find more info about Tesla Apartments here!

Design Studios Svi-Mi

Located in downtown Zagreb, in Marticeva Street, Design Studios Svi-Mi consists of five fully-equipped studio apartments. Apartments are modern, clean, and comfortable. Parking is provided in a garage nearby, and it costs approx. 12€ for 24h. Design Studios Svi-Mi’s info and prices

Swanky Mint Hostel

This is our go-to hostel. Very well designed, Swanky Mint hostel offers dorm rooms, as well as private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. If you travel solo or look for cheaper accommodation, we highly recommend staying at this hostel. Swanky Mint’s availabilty and rates!

Main Square Hostel

This is another cool hostel, located just behind the main square (thus the name!). We love their industrial feel, with high ceiling and exposed pipes. Rooms are bright, with boxed beds for maximum privacy. Check prices and availability forthe Main Square Hostel

Eating out in Zagreb

Zagreb restaurant scene is constantly changing, and for the most part, improving all the time. However, it’s not always easy to recommend restaurants in Zagreb, as some of them shine for a year or two, just to completely disappear the following year.

We’ve seen it happen with Prasac , a former restaurant in Upper Town, or a 5/4 restaurant downtown. However, below we list a few of our fave eateries in Zagreb, which we hope will be around for quite a long time making superb food.

Restaurants in Zagreb we like

Best bars in zagreb, … for bear, … for wine, … for coffee, events in zagreb, transport in zagreb.

Best explored on foot, Zagreb also offers a good tram network, intercity buses that connect surrounding neighborhoods, towns, and villages, cheap taxis, and bicycle rentals.

A tram ticket for a single ride costs €1.33 ($1.45, £1.15) for 90 min, €0.93 for 60 min, and €0.53 for 30 min validity; but you can also purchase a daily ticket for €4 ($4.40, £3.50) or a three-day ticket for €9,29 ($10.10, £8).

Taxis in Zagreb today are relatively cheap and operated by different companies: Radio Taxi Zagreb, Cammeo Taxi, UberX, and Eco Taxi. Expect to pay around €1 to €2 ($1.10-$2.20, £0.85-£1.70) for the start, every consecutive km costs €0.65 to €1 ($0.72-$1.10, £0.55-£0.85), and for every minute of waiting time you will pay around €0.2 ($0.22, £0.17). The minimum spent is €2.65 ($2.90, £2.30). Radio Taxi Zagreb is the most expensive taxi company in Zagreb, but it is also the most reliable, especially in periods of high demand, and when you need a short ride.

NextBike is a company, or a network, of city bikes available at 17 locations downtown. You need to register with the company (via their application) and you choose one of three models: pay as you go (€0.66 / $0.75 / £0.55 per 30 min), and yearly subscription, where for €26.54 ($29, £22.80) you get an unlimited number of 30-minute rides. A prepaid model give you the option to use bikes as much as you want; the first half an hour is always free of charge, while for each consecutive 30-minute, you pay €0.66 ($0.75, £0.55) per 30-minute period.

Car rental in Zagreb

Many visitors to Croatia arrive first in Zagreb because Zagreb Airport is the main international airport in Croatia, and it receives flights all year round.

At Zagreb airport, you will find over 20 car rental companies. Their counters are at the passenger terminal, just outside the baggage claim zone.

However, we highly recommend that you book your car rental in Zagreb in advance (the sooner the better). By doing so, you will secure a better price for your car hire in Zagreb, but also you’ll make sure to actually have a car. As demand in summer goes up, the cars rent fast.

We always recommend using Rentalcars.com when booking your car rental in Zagreb and in Croatia.

We’ve written a full post on car rental in Zagreb if you would like to read more.

Zagreb Airport transfers

For those of you who arrive in Zagreb by plane, information on transfers from the airport to the town can be valuable.

The cheapest way to reach downtown from the airport is by  Zagreb public buses that run between Kvaternik Square and Velika Gorica with a scheduled stop at the Airport Zagreb. Travel time is around 40 minutes, and the bus runs from 4.30 am to midnight, every 25-35 minutes. A one-way ticket costs €1.33 ($1.50, £1.15) if bought at the kiosk, but €1.99 ($2.20, £1.70) if bought on the bus.

A shuttle bus runs between Zagreb airport and Zagreb’s central bus station. The shuttle always follows the flight timetable. They run from 4 am to 10.30 pm, the majority of the time (but not always) every half an hour. The one-way ticket costs €6 ($6.60, £5.20).

You can take a taxi from the airport to the town. However, only certain taxis are allowed to station at the airport, and they normally charge more for the ride than if you book a transfer ahead, and have your driver wait for you.

Expect to pay for a taxi ride from the airport to Zagreb central bus station with an official taxi around €20 ($22, £17.20).

Never take a taxi that is parked outside the airport building. Rather call and order Radio Taxi Zagreb, Cammeo Taxi, UberX, or Eco Taxi – you will wait for 15 minutes but you will pay less. Radio Taxi charges €1.9 ($2.10, £1.65) a start, and an additional €0.9 ($1, £0.80) per kilometer, while Cammeo, for example, charges €1.33 ($1.50, £1.15) for a start, and €0.66 ($0.75, £0.55) per kilometer.

Recommended travel guides

• Fodor’s Croatia Travel Guide (we are co-authors!)
• Lonely Planet Croatia Travel Guide
• Rick Steves Croatia & Slovenia

Zagreb travel blog

• Zagreb Travel Guide
• Where to stay in Zagreb
• Car Rental in Zagreb
• Must-try Zagreb restaurants
• Best restaurants for lunch in Zagreb
• Five best places for beer in Zagreb
• Zagreb itineraries for travelers, not tourists
• Advent in Zagreb
• A quick guide to Zagreb for couples
• Souvenirs to buy in Zagreb
• Today’s spotlight: Dolac Market
• Bistroteka Zagreb
• Mali Bar, a cozy bistro with yummy food
• Restaurant Mano

If you are planning to travel to Croatia , you can also check our post on top things to do in Croatia .

What other things to do in Zagreb would you suggest adding to our list? As always, if you have any comments, questions, or suggestions, please leave them below. 

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Destinations In Croatia / Zagreb, Croatia / Top things to do in Zagreb

49 thoughts on “Top things to do in Zagreb”

Frank – love this site – thanks for all the great tips! Quick question – my 24 year old daughter and I are visiting Croatia in June. We have a 6 hour layover in Zagreb on the way home. Is it worth heading into the city for a few hours? It looks like the downtown is only about 30 minutes from the airport. What do you recommend? Thanks!!

hey Frank thank you for the tips, im goin to visit Croatia in mid sept, with a friend. let me know if something more should i know!

Thanks for the comment, Kristijan! I’ll update it, but basically the experience is the same.

I was wondering, why do you have only 1 Escape room listed? There are total of 9 places with 22 different games.

Hi Mabela, surprisingly, there aren’t so many places to rent a bike in Zagreb. You can check http://www.bike.com.hr/rent_a_bike.html and http://www.zagrebbybike.com/rent-a-bike . Have fun!

Thanks Frank, it’s very useful. We plan to use bike to travel around Zagreb. However, is there any fee that is not paid for a yearly basis? Yearly fee doesn’t seem to be applicable to tourists.

Thank you so much Judith, that’s so interesting:)

Thanks for your article Frank; we’re going to Zagreb in a few days and will use your recommendations! We want to spend some time on the beach too – can you recommend the best place to go for relaxing on the beach?

Hey Frank, Nice article, I really like the way you’re presenting Zagreb. Well written! :) Your blog looks pretty interesting. For some more info on Zagreb’s startup scene, check out this article: http://magazine.startus.cc/zagreb-startup-city-guide/ It’s full of useful info if you’re into entrepreneurship :) Have a nice day! Judith

Hi Mark, I will arrive to Zagreb to pursue some business activities at about lunch time. What would you recommend for my family (wife + 2 twin daughters aged 14) to do in Zagreb before we continue for Dubrovnik in the afternoon of the following day ? Thanks, Marian

Been reading your blog for a while, reminded me of Croatia.while I lived abroad and now that I am back I am still reading it, force of habit I guess XD Anyway I think that it would be useful for your readers to add the fact that since June 2015 Croatia i.e. Zagreb will be connected with Toronto via airplane (again) so I think it needs to be included somewhere in your blog :) Keep up with the good work will continue to read. Lijepi pozdrav, Marko

Hello! I am planning a trip to Zagreb in April and I was wondering if there’s a train from Zagreb to Budapest directly? Thank you!

Hello! I am planning a trip to Zagreb in April and I was wondering if there’s a train that I can take from Zagreb to Budapest directly ? Thank you!

Hi Ignatius, you should definitely visit Istria, especially the northwest Istria where you’ll find popular wineries: Kabola, Cuj, Kozlovic, Coronica, etc.

Hi Frank, I’m planning to visit Croatia in May. Where should I visit to experience Croatian wines? My visit will include Zagreb and Opatija. Appreciate your suggestions. Kind regards, Ignatius

Mandie, just finished reading your post, and loved it.

Hi Mandie, awesome! I am checking your post today. So glad that you’ve enjoyed it. And outlet tip is great to know .. never paid attention to that. Thanks, girl! Let us know if you come to Istria. We are heading to Dalmatia very soon. Have fun!

I loved it so much I wrote a whole post about it – you can read it tomorrow! Lol ;)

Ha, I just got here this morning and I’ve already done numbers 1, 2, 7 & 8! Actually I’m sitting here drinking coffee & working in the Museum of Broken Relationships right now – I think it’s going to be my next post because I loved it so much! (Also they have free WiFi & an electrical outlet lol)

Frank, Thanks for this great overview of Zagreb. I was only in Zagreb one night, but I loved the feel of the city. I want to go back and take a walk by that park, it looks lovely! Katie http://www.worldwidevegetarian.com

Thanks Frank! Appreciate it a lot. A bit busy for another week, but then I’ll happily follow the rules and answer all questions. Are you guys coming to Croatia in September?

Hi Frank & Vera, Guess what? I nominated you for the Liebster award. Sorry ;). Hope you haven’t had to do this before. If not, look forward to your responses! Frank (bbqboy)

I did about half of these in the day that I was in Zagreb. I really wish I had gone inside the Museum of Broken Relationships. We walked past it and peeked into the windows, but thought it was too strange and probably wouldn’t have been too interesting. Now I’m just left wondering what it would have been like…

I see everyone was intrigued by the same thing I was – the museum of Broken Relationships. How odd, but interesting…I’d visit! Frank (bbqboy)

When you talk about traffic and parking being a nightmare, that reminds me of Toronto! But you’re right, when you are visiting a city, you don’t care about that type of thing – usually you walk or take transit everywhere! I’d love to visit this city someday, especially the market, the museums, and exploring the downtown area!

Thanks for the great suggestions, Frank! It’s been quite a while since I have actually been to Zagreb and I don’t remember it as a place where I wanted to live either. But I do remember that the upper town area was a great place to explore and wander around. Now that I am reading all your suggestions, I am actually realizing that I need to go back and see more of the great things the city has to offer… :)

The museum of broken relationships, Maksimir Park and the Zagreb Cathedral stand out for me. The cemetery thing on the other hand is creepy.

Hi Frank. I’m not a city person either. Like you I like to only visit cities. For the markets and shops…never now when a fabulous pair of shoes may jump in my bag. Unlike you I like cemeteries. Because of the angel head stones. The one with the most beautiful angels and rusted wrought iron railings and views I ever saw was in Horta, on the island of Faial in the Azores. The photographs I took were stunning. Maybe also because my daughter died and I have a morbid fascination with cemeteries too. I love to read inscriptions and in Europe in June or July all the cemeteries are a riot of yellow flowers. It’s a sight to behold. Some kind of festival. I forgot which one.

The Museum of Broken Relationships. So cool. I think I’m going to write a story with that title.

I love Zagreb. Its been too long since I have been back to Zagreb. I really enjoyed my visit there while visiting one of my Friends.

I didn’t make it to Zagreb when I was in Croatia – only spent a gray, rainy day in Dubrovnik. I’m dying to go back to that country though! I can completely understand a love hate relationship with a place. Sometimes it’s nice to the leave the drudgery of daily living to the residents, and experience a place as a temporary visitor who doesn’t have to care about how much the price of parking went up! :)

I never heard of Zagreb but it looks like an interesting town. Especially, the Museum of Broken Relationships. I’m curious now to see it.

I keep hearing about this museum of broken relationships, it’s becoming quite iconic! I’d love to visit (not live, just like you!!)

When I had a look at this article, I was thinking ‘The Museum of Broken Relationships has got to be in there!’. I loved that place. I didn’t know you could leave an item, sounds like a great idea to keep the project going. I loved the green markets too, and I have to go back to climb Sljeme mountain! When we visited the weather was terrible!

I wonder if anyone has ever broken up with their partner at the Museum of Broken Relationships. I have not been to Zagreb for a while, but I’m pretty sure that I had a few beers on Tkalciceva Street. It was the summer and I think 75% of Zagreb was on the coast. Not bad for a quiet drink on a cooler August night.

Well, I did my whole post on a phone today…took much longer, so ya to me :-)

Love your post on Zagreb! It looks like another beautiful Croatian town. I really must come visit! But I’ll be sure to avoid the museum!

Thanks Frank! The Blue Train looks way cool…..appreciate the share :)

This looks like a great list of suggestions and I’ve bookmarked it! Between you and Chasing the Donkey, Croatia is slowly becoming n°1 on my bucket list!

Angie from reasons to dress , fashion, real mom street style & life as a North American mom in Italy.

I would love to visit Zagreb, I’ve heard so many good things about the city!

Interesting, the Museum of Broken Relationships. I guess depending on your mood and relationship status this could be quirky or perhaps depressing? Maybe the bar is for those in the latter group:) Sounds fun!

Frank, We are going to have to do Zagreb as a weekend break…and your list looks like exactly what I’d do. Bookmarking…

This was great. I’m with Nina – I’ve never heard of a museum of broken relationships. While it seems kind of sad, it’s also very intriguing! I chuckled that there is a place there to have a drink, too. One might need one after reading about all the ‘break-ups!’

I write this each week, but I am so looking forward to going to Croatia. I read your blog so often I feel like I will have such a great itinerary! – Heather, Life of a Traveling Navy Wife

atmosphere in a cemetery… LOL!

My family is from the village of Domagovic, do you have any articles or information on this area. Thanks! Bryan Fabyanic (Fabijanic)

Hi Phil, thanks for stopping by. I haven’t visited that area much. Been in Varazdin 2 times. It’s lovely town. That area, along with Istria, is considered the most developed (and people the most open-minded) in the whole Croatia (not sure if it’s true). It still gets pretty cold over there during the winter. This is why I prefer seaside towns. But I don’t think it would be a madness for a Brit to go to live there. Town seems pleasant, nature around is nice, Zagreb is not far, … You should be ok. Why Varazdin out of all? ‘Cause it’s close to where you live right now?

Hi Frank, You mention Varazdin. I am thinking of buying a house in that area, which is not far from where I currently live in Hungary. Have you seen much of that region and do you think it would be total madness for a Brit like myself to want to go and live there?

Thanks! I will check Sime out next time I’m in Zagreb.

Hi again Frank! I see you’ve visited Vincek’s. I prefer cakes from slastičarnica kod Šime in Petrinjska street. They excellent, although Vincek’s are also very good. Greetings to you from Lago di Bundek :).

It’s totally cool, believe me. And not too big. Some items may surprise you :)

First time I’ve ever heard of a museum of broken relationships, such a great idea! Love the fact that there’s a story behind the items.

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10 reasons why Zagreb, Croatia should be your next European city break

As the inland capital of a country famous for its dazzling island-speckled coastline, Zagreb is often overlooked by travellers.

It may not have the Adriatic Sea or the beach, but I was immediately charmed by the Croatian capital’s vibrance, culture and history. Visiting a less well-known city meant I arrived with no expectations. Unlike iconic European heavyweights such as Paris and Rome, Zagreb is not instantly recognisable, which meant I could enjoy exploring and discovering local life without feeling the pressure to tick off its most famous sights.

From its intriguing architecture to nearby natural havens – not to mention its coffee scene – this underrated European capital has something for everyone. This all-encompassing Zagreb guide provides proof.

Its intriguing cityscape                                                                                                         

Unlike most western European capitals, Zagreb’s cityscape is a fascinating mixture of classic Austro-Hungarian architecture and gritty socialist structures. Some of the city’s most emblematic buildings include the iconic, colourful roof of St Mark’s Church and the twin spires of Zagreb Cathedral which tower above the Croatian capital.

View from Zagreb 360° tower

In contrast to old-world cobbled streets of the old town lined with ornate, centuries-old buildings, Novi Zagreb is home to starkly brutal and modernist communist architecture and concrete structures built under the Yugoslavia era. I loved checking out Zagreb’s cityscape from the Zagreb 360 tower and Lotrščak Tower.

ZAGREB IS ONE OF OUR TOP 7 UNDERRATED CITIES IN EUROPE; SEE THE REST

Croatian coffee culture

Caffeine addicts will be in their element in the Croatian capital. One of the first things I noticed when wandering around downtown Zagreb was the endless row of café terraces filled with people sipping coffee. With an electric mix of Italian, Turkish and Austro-Hungarian influences, coffee culture here is steeped in history.

While many enjoy sitting and watching the world go by, in Croatia coffee is all about socialising. Whether its catching up with friends or doing business, the social role of coffee is crucial. And unlike in many bustling cities, coffee is not just a quick pick-me-up but an event, only to be drunk at a café table and never to take away.

For the best beans, try Cogito Coffee, U Dvorištu or Eli’s Caffè.

For those who love the outdoors, Zagreb has far more to offer than your average European city. Mount Medvednica perching over the Croatian capital offers a natural escape for locals who come to admire beautiful views over Zagreb. While hiking up the heavily wooded slopes I couldn’t believe I was only a short tram ride away from the city centre.

Mount Medvednica

If hiking isn’t your thing, spend a summer’s day basking in the sun at Jarun Lake or wander around Maksimir Park.

VISIT ZAGREB ON THIS 10-DAY TRIP FROM DUBROVNIK TO VENICE

Quirky museums

Every European capital has some very impressive art and history museums, but few have displays as quirky as the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Initially an art project between two Zagreb-based artists after they broke up, the exhibition toured the world for several years before becoming the city’s most unusual museum. From an old vine record to a toaster, each seemingly mundane item on display comes with an emotionally charged story about a lost love. It was definitely one of the most memorable and poignant exhibitions I’ve been to.

READ MORE: A GUIDE TO CROATIA’S VIBRANT ART SCENE

Its historic Upper Town

Perched on two small hills encircled by Renaissance-era walls, the Zagreb’s oldest district is home to many of the city’s main attractions. The picturesque medieval part of the Croatian capital boasts its most impressive architecture and great views over the rest of the city.

St Mark’s Church

Croatian beer and wine

For those who aren’t so keen on coffee, there are other popular beverages on the Zagreb drinking scene. After sunset the city centre comes alive as the streets and squares transform into an open-air party. The epicentre of Zagreb nightlife is on Tkalčićeva street, a buzzing, pedestrianised street lined with bar and restaurant terraces.

Beer drinkers will love the huge selection of locally brewed craft beers – starting at just €2 to 3 per half litre – at the Craft Room. Wine lovers have to make a stop at Bornstein, Croatia’s oldest winery.

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Local produce

Get a taste of local life by browsing Dolac Market, a colourful, open-air fruit and veg market in a picturesque setting in the old town. Buy yourself some fruit or a pastry and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Dolac Market

You can also try Mali Plac (little market), a weekly event which promotes local produce from small producers.

One of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe

Situated on the lower slopes of Mount Medvednica, Mirogoj cemetery is home to the graves of many famous Croatian figures. Its majestic leaf-covered arcade boasts an impressive, fortress-like piece of architecture from the outside which provides a place of tranquility and peace on the inside. The lush cemetery’s winding paths are lined with sculptures and beautifully decorated tombs.

RELATED: HERE’S HOW TO SPEND THE ULTIMATE 7 DAYS IN CROATIA

Adventure to the Plitvice Lakes

If you’re staying in Zagreb for more than a couple of days, it is the perfect distance for a day trip to the gorgeous Plitvice Lakes.

Yours truly at Plitvice Lakes

This densely forested, eden-like paradise is home to 16 crystal clear lakes which change colour according to the season. I debated over I had the time to visit but I am so glad I did – the lakes are absolutely breathtaking.

Wander along the Green Horseshoe

Unlike many capital cities, Zagreb is not short of green spaces thanks to a forward-thinking urban planner called Milan Lenuci. The trademark U-shaped collection of urban greenery is home to parks, squares, fountains and beautiful architecture.

Want to pay this special city a visit? Check out Intrepid’s range of small group adventures in Croatia.

(Hero image c/o Intrepid Travel. All other images c/o Selina Sykes.)

Facebook image c/o iStock/joyt

Feeling inspired?

Selina Sykes

Selina is a Londoner living in Paris where she is often found drinking wine and eating cheese. She's a news producer at a French television channel and Franglais is officially her first language. When not embracing that famous joie de vivre, she’s probably traveling somewhere in Europe. Her favorite city in France (other than Paris) is Lyon and she’ll happily talk your ear off about why Belgium is the most underrated country in western Europe.

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb is not only about stately institutions of Habsburg grandeur, although for the first-time visitor wandering around the façades and gardens of the Lower Town it might feel that way. Across the Sava, there’s a striking Museum of Contemporary Art and Croatia’s capital has a thriving gallery scene, part of an ever-broadening cultural agenda.

1. st mark’s.

St Mark’s stands out as an iconic attraction because of its chequered-tile roof displaying the coats of arms of Zagreb and Croatia, brightening the focal square named after it. Other external features reflect its lengthy construction, such as its Romanesque windows, Gothic portals and particularly the 15 effigies over the south portal.

St Mark’s Church, Trg Svetog Marka 5, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4851 611

St Mark’s | © Jorge Franganillo/Flickr

2. National Theatre

The National Theatre is a cultural landmark and a work of art in its own right. Habsburg Emperor Franz Josef attended the unveiling of this architectural masterpiece, created by the Viennese design team of Ferdinand Fellner and Herman Helmer. Ivan Meštrović later sculpted the fountain outside, The Source of Life.

National Theatre, Trg maršala Tita 15, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4888 488

National Theatre | © Jorge Franganillo/Flickr

3. Museum of Broken Relationships

Museum, Shop

4. Art Pavilion

Building, Train Station

The Art Pavilion dominates the landscaped square of Tomislav trg. Created for Hungary’s Millennial Exhibition of 1896 then transported from Budapest, this formerly iron structure was made a permanent feature by architects Fellner and Helmer. Now a prestigious art space, it stages major temporary exhibitions, such as the Giacometti show in 2017.

Art Pavilion, Trg kralja Tomislava 22, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4841 070

Art Pavilion | © Jorge Franganillo/Flickr

5. Mimara Museum

Museum, School

Zagreb’s finest art collection was bequeathed to the nation by controversial war-time cultural consultant Ante Topić Mimara. How Mimara came by his outstanding collection of Goyas, Canalettos and Van Dycks isn’t clear but for the tourist, such treasure housed in a beautiful former school from the 19th century is worth a day’s visit.

Mimara Museum, Rooseveltov trg 5, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4828 100

Mimara Museum | © David Holt/Flickr

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Building, Cemetery

Created by Cathedral architect Hermann Bollé, Mirogoj is the main cemetery for both Zagreb and the nation. Croatia’s great writers, artists and politicians lie here in what was a summerhouse and vineyard. Bollé’s grandiose main entrance lends the right tone to any visit.

Mirogoj, Aleja Hermanna Bollea 27, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4696 700

Mirogoj | © Adrià Páez Forteza/Flickr

7. Zagreb Cathedral

Building, Cathedral

8. Archaeological Museum

Created for the World Student Games of 1987, Jarun is Zagreb’s main area for recreation. Cycle paths and a skateboard park surround a man-made lake where sailboats glide, dotted with the islands that stage June’s major INmusic festival. Nightclubs, including the seminal Aquarius, fringe the shoreline.

Jarun, Croatia

Jarun | © prkos/Flickr

10. Nikola Tesla Technical Museum

11. Meštrovićev paviljon

Mosque, Museum

An unusual work created by renowned sculptor Ivan Meštrović, the Meštrovićev paviljon houses the Croatian Associations of Artists . Opened as a circular arts hall before World War II, it was later converted into mosque, then a museum. Today the building hosts events and exhibitions of national cultural importance.

Meštrovićev paviljon, Trg žrtava fašizma 16, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4611 818

Meštrovićev paviljon | © Fred Romero/Flickr

12. Maksimir

Park, Stadium, Zoo

Zagreb’s largest park was created in the 1790s by Bishop Maksimiljan Vrhovac. Its rolling hills and sprawling oak trees represent the English style, rustic and less constrained than its French counterpart, with lakes and footpaths. Today you’ll also find Zagreb Zoo and nearby the national football stadium, also called Maksimir.

Maksimir, Zagreb

Maksimir | © ivan_m_zg/Flickr

13. Museum of Contemporary Art

Museum, Cinema

14. St Catherine’s Church

Church, Monastery

A Baroque creation of the 1600s, St Catherine’s lends its name to the pretty square in the Upper Town that also houses the Klovićevi Dvori Gallery in the adjoining monastery. The church displays the coat of arms of the noble families who contributed to its reconstruction later in the 17th century.

St Catherine’s Church, Katarinin trg, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4851 950

St Catherine’s | © Prabhu Balakrishnan/Flickr

15. Grič Tunnel

The recently opened Grič tunnel beneath the Upper Town fortifications was created as an air-raid shelter during World War II. Unused then abandoned, it was taken over by DJs and ravers in the 1990s. Now renovated, it stages fashion shows and exhibitions and is slated to host a Museum of the Senses.

Grič Tunnel, Mesnička ulica 19, Zagreb, Croatia

Grič Tunnel | © Miroslav Vajdic/Flickr

16. Modern Gallery

Housed in the Habsburg-era Vranyczany Palace, the Modern Gallery holds some 10,000 domestic works from the 1800s to the present day. At any given time, some 750 are on display, from Impressionist paintings by Vlaho Bukovac to cutting-edge video art, along with sculptures and installations.

Modern Gallery, Andrije Hebranga 1, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 6041 040

View this post on Instagram Always make time to go to gallery everywhere we go… A post shared by WH (@wanda_hamidah) on Aug 17, 2016 at 5:10am PDT

17. Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters

Donated to the nation in 1868 by the eminent bishop of the same name, the Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters contains the 256 paintings of his private collection. Concentrating mainly on the Italian Renaissance, these works also include pieces by El Greco, Jean-Antoine Gros and Jan Wallensz de Cock.

Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters, Trg Nikole Šubića Zrinskog 11, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4895 117

https://www.instagram.com/p/BXv9mBNhJjY/?taken-at=1207382769325549

18. Zagreb City Museum

19. Botanical Gardens

Botanical Garden, University

Opened in the 1890s, the Botanical Garden s operate from April 1 to November 1. Along with the many glasshouses containing some 10,000 species of plants, you’ll find large garden ponds, winding paths and many benches, allowing for quiet contemplation away from the busy city.

Botanical Garden, Trg Marka Marulića 9A, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4844 002

Botanical Garden | © Shadowgate/Flickr

20. Atelijer Meštrović

Workplace of Croatia’s most renowned sculptor, the Atelijer Meštrović occupies the 17th-century properties that he himself restored over 20 years until his arrest in 1941 and subsequent exile. Works in marble, stone, wood and bronze, and drawings and graphics cover two floors, an atrium and the atelier off the ivy-clad courtyard.

Atelijer Meštrović, Mletačka 8, Zagreb, Croatia , +385 1 4851 123

View this post on Instagram #zagreb #art #atelijermestrovic A post shared by Natalija (@foxyhills) on Mar 2, 2016 at 7:54am PST

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A First Timer’s Travel Guide to Visiting Zagreb, Croatia

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

Visiting Zagreb for the first time and wondering how to visit Zagreb? our mini travel guide to Zagreb Croatia is all you need. This Zagreb Travel Guide includes everything you need to know about the capital of Croatia to plan a perfect Zagreb vacation.

Before You Plan a Trip to Zagreb

• Know if you need a visa for Zagreb. The holders of uniform visa (C) for two or multiple entries, valid for all Schengen Area Member States don’t need to apply for a separate visa for Croatia. Read our complete guide to Schengen Visa.
• Make sure to have a guidebook before you set foot in Zagreb. That makes getting around the city easy.
• As Zagreb is designed for strolling, you need comfortable and super light walking shoes. I wear Skechers while hubby loves Adidas and mini-me has got Adidas too. Read our guides to the best shoes for women and the best shoes for kids for your European family vacation .

Visiting Zagreb Travel Guide

Zagreb, one of our favorite European capital cities in the world remains a hidden gem in Europe because travelers are enchanted by the Croatian cities and towns with breathtaking Adriatic coastlines like Dubrovnik and Split so much so that they completely overlook the inland capital city of Zagreb. But, they don’t know what they are missing. With a unique charm, rich culture and history, one-of-a-kind architecture, and lively vibes – it’s easy to fall in love with Zagreb, Croatia.

We spent a memorable day in Zagreb and enjoyed every second of our time there. How we wished we’d have earmarked some more time for Zagreb.

Read Next: Best Places to Visit in Europe with Kids

Where is Zagreb in Croatia?

Zagreb, the capital and the largest city of Croatia, is located in the northwest section of Croatia in the south of Medvednica Mountain (Zagrebačka Gora) along the River Sava.

Zagreb lies at the junction where Central Europe , the Mediterranean, and Southeastern Europe meet which makes it the heart of road, rail, and air transport in Croatia. Vienna, Austria is about 370 km; Budapest, Hungary is around 345 km; and Ljubljana, Slovenia is just 140 km away from Zagreb.

In medieval times, Zagreb existed as two settlements, Kaptol which was inhabited by priests, and Grič (now Gradec) which was inhabited by civilians like merchants and farmers. Ban Josip Jelačić united the two medieval settlements in 1851. The unification of Kaptol and Gradec is now the Zagreb Old Town. Kaptol is the flat part while Gradec is the hilly area.

Read Next: Uber-Cool Things to do in Zadar, Croatia

Why Visit Zagreb

Not that you need a reason to visit Zagreb city, but here are a few 🙂 ♥ Zagreb is gorgeous. ♥ It is full of surprises. ♥ It’s out-of-the-ordinary. ♥ It’s one of the cheapest cities in Europe. ♥ To dive into its intriguing culture and history. ♥ To experience the unique Croatian Coffee Culture ♥ To experience Croatian Beer and Wine ♥ It’s wonderfully compact and easy to explore. ♥ For Mirogoj Cemetery, one of the world’s most beautiful cemeteries ♥ Because it has Plitvice Lakes , one of the best national parks in the world ♥ Its people are welcoming and warm

Read More: The Best National Parks in Europe for Families

Best Time to Visit Zagreb

The best time to visit Zagreb is from April until October . I’d recommend skipping the summer months of June, July, and August as the temperatures and crowds are too much to handle.

If you ask me, I’d say visit Zagreb during the months of May and September as you’ll have the place almost to yourself plus the weather and accommodation prices both are cool 🙂

April and October can also be good months to travel to Zagreb. Zagreb has some of the best Christmas Markets in Europe , so plan around December to celebrate Christmas in Zagreb.

Must-Read: Best Winter Destinations in Europe for Families

Weather in Zagreb

Zagreb has a coastal climate. The summers are hot and dry and the winters are snowy and cold. The average summer temperature is around 20° Celsius (68° Fahrenheit) and in winter it’s around 1° Celsius ( 34° Fahrenheit).

Rain is experienced relatively all around the year with September, October, November, and December as the wettest months and January, and February as the driest months.

How many Days in Zagreb?

Two days (48 hours) are more than enough to explore Zagreb.

Getting to Zagreb

As the capital city of Croatia, Zagreb is well-connected to the rest of the world by air and the European countries by road.

All the major airlines link Franjo Tuđman Airport Zagreb to the world capitals year-round. Croatia Airlines is the best bet if you are traveling to and from other European capitals.

We use and recommend Skyscanner to get the best deals on flights.

By Bus and Train

There are a plethora of international bus and train lines to Zagreb from other European cities and domestic bus and train lines to Zagreb from other Croatian cities.

You can check the bus schedules at the official website of the Zagreb Bus Terminal and train schedules at the Croatia Railways website and the Die Bahn website.

We use and recommend Trainline , Eurail , RailEurope , Omio , and FlixBus to book trains and buses in Europe.

We rented a car for our European adventure and drove to Zagreb from Ljubljana which took us a little over 2 hours.

Croatia is best explored by car. Croatian roads and motorways are a delight to drive on. Obviously, driving in cities isn’t fun with loads of traffic and parking problems. Read our detailed guide to renting a car in Europe.

We love  Discover Cars  when it comes to renting a car anywhere in the world.

Rent a Car in Zagreb

Parking in Zagreb

We had faced parking issues in Ljubljana and thus, left our car at our Airbnb parking to save the hassle.

Like in other European cities, Zagreb has options for street parking and public garage parking. Short-time street parking is organized in 4 zones as per the distance from the city center. You can find a free parking spot outside the city center.

Public Garages are safe and have no time limit but are expensive. Petrinjska Street  and  Langov Trg are the closest to the center of the city. The parking cost ranges from 1 Kuna to 5 Kuna per hour. 

Car Rental in Zagreb

We completely rely on and recommend Discover Cars to rent a car wherever you go.

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How to Get From Zagreb Airport to Zagreb City Center

Zagreb Airport (Franjo Tudman Airport) is about 12 km from the center of Zagreb.

The easiest, most comfortable, hassle-free, and of course quickest way to get from the airport to the city center is by private transfer where a knowledgeable local driver chauffeurs you to your hotel.

You can also hire a taxi from the airport to your hotel. The taxi stand is located at the Passenger Terminal where you’ll find many taxi service providers. The price per km starts from around HRK 13.

If budget is a concern, you can choose to travel by Airport Shuttle, Pleso prijevoz . It runs between Zagreb Airport and the Zagreb Central Bus Terminal as per the airport timetable. One-way tickets cost HRK 45.

Another option is ZET (Zagreb Electric Tram) which covers a distance of 19 km while making about 20 stops along the way. It runs every 35 minutes.

Getting Around Zagreb

Zagreb can be easily explored on foot, especially in the Old Town. If walking is something you despise then Zagreb has a convenient and affordable public transport system consisting of trams and buses. Taxi and Uber are also an option while you travel outside the city center.

Zagreb Card

Zagreb Card is a tourist card that along with free entrance to various museums and attractions gives free access to public transport. Plus the card offers additional discounts and benefits to the cardholders.

You can buy a 24-hour (98 HRK) or 72-hour (135 HRK) card from the Tourist Information Center at Ban Jelačić Square.

Zagreb Tram

There are several trams running on as many as 20 lines connecting the various parts of the city. The tickets can be purchased from Tisak kiosks or from the tram driver.

A standard ticket costs 10 Kuna (during the day) and 15 Kuna (at night) and is valid for 90 minutes in one direction.

There’s an option to buy a daily ticket that costs 30 Kuna and allows you to ride the trams as many as you want and as much as you like in any direction. Likewise, 3-day, 7-day, 15-day, and 30-day tickets are available.

Bus service in Zagreb consists of about 134 lines connecting the different parts of Zagreb and the suburbs with the city center. The ticket system is the same as for the Zagreb trams.

The prime taxi providers in Zagreb are Taxi Cammeo, Zebra Taxi, Eko Taxi, and Radio Taxi Zagreb. The start prices usually vary between 6 Kuna and 10 Kuna and most of them cost about 6 Kuna per kilometer.

Uber in Zagreb surprisingly offers great service at modest rates. The start charges are 6 Kuna and then about 3 Kuna per kilometer. The cost per minute is 0.60 Kuna and 13 Kuna is the minimum price.

It’s not as cheap as public transport for solo travelers but a great alternative for family or group travelers.

We used it extensively and found the Uber drivers in Croatia to be pleasant, honest, and helpful. I’m saying this based on two instances we had in Zagreb and Dubrovnik.

Hubby forgot his iPhone somewhere in Zagreb and realized it soon after boarding the Uber. He wasn’t sure where. Maybe at a restaurant where we had dinner or at one of the two shops, we stopped by for souvenirs or…he had no idea.

The driver went out of his way to help us in tracing the mobile phone with a genuine smile. These kinds of gestures every now and then retain our faith in kindness and humanity.

I can’t emphasize enough that biking is the best way to explore European capitals. There are many public bike rentals in Zagreb that have locations scattered across the city where you can rent and return the bikes.

We’d strongly recommend Bike.com.hr , and Pedaloo to rent a bike in Zagreb.

Alternatively, you can choose one of many biking tours in Zagreb.

The center of the city can be easily explored on foot. You can either take a self-guided walk or join one of the numerous free or paid walking tours in Zagreb.

What to do in Zagreb

There are so many beautiful places to visit in Zagreb. We have a dedicated post about the best things to do in Zagreb, Croatia for you. Walking the Zagreb Old Town is the best thing ever! Out of all the Zagreb attractions, we loved Mirogoj Cemetery ( it’s super-gorgeous), the Museum of Broken Relationships (it’s different), St. Mark’s Church (wowzers), and Zagreb Cathedral (Zagreb must-see). How can you not visit Dolac Market, the belly of Zagreb? Are you a coffee lover like me? Head to Špica to experience the coffee culture of Croatia. Spend some time at Maksimir Park, Zagreb’s largest and oldest public park.

Read More: Vis Island in Croatia – A Gem of a Croatian Island

Where to Stay in Zagreb

Zagreb has a vast, easy, and affordable public transportation system so no matter which neighborhood you stay in Zagreb, you wouldn’t have to struggle to get around in Zagreb.

We found the accommodation options in Zagreb a great value for money as compared to other capital cities in Europe.

We’ve rounded up some of the best Zagreb accommodation options from Hostels to apartments, boutique hotels, luxury hotels, and Airbnb to help you decide where to stay based on your budget or travel style.

Hostels in Zagreb

The Dots Hostel

Boutique Hostel Shappy

Main Square Hostel

Love Croatia Hostel

Budget Hotels in Zagreb

Hotel Academia

Hotel Croatia

Luxury Hotels in Zagreb

Hotel Esplanade

Hotel Capital

Hotel Dubrovnik

Hotel Jägerhorn

Sheraton Zagreb Hotel

Apartments in Zagreb

4gZg Apartment

Apartments Simple Teslina

Ria Studioapartman

Feels Like Home Apartments

Apartment Old Zagreb

Airbnb in Zagreb

We stayed on Bianca & Marko’s property and loved every bit of our stay. It’s fairly close to the center of the city yet away from all the hustle and bustle of it.

Where to Eat in Zagreb

Zagreb has plenty of traditional restaurants serving Croatian cuisine and chic cafes that vouch for its vibrant cafe culture.

Being a vegetarian, I was apprehensive as Croatia was marked as the sixth-worst country in Europe for vegetarians as per the study by The Eco Experts but I had a great vegetarian food experience in Zagreb. Though, I found the Croatian Islands attesting to this study.

Here are the few restaurants and cafes we tried during our time in Zagreb:

Restaurants in Zagreb

Zinfandel’s Restaurant

Restaurant TAČ

Konoba Didov San

Dubravkin put

Vegetarian Restaurants Zagreb

Green Point

Zrno Bio Bistro

Cafes in Zagreb

Experience the lively Croatian Cafe Culture with a cup of coffee accompanied by a Croatian cake.

Kim’s Coffee

Cogito Coffee Shop

Eli’s Caffe

Najgora Kava U Gradu

Hendrick’s garden (A Most Unusual Garden)

Otto&Frank

It’s not your regular cafe. This is a great place to read a book or two, write your heart out, work on your laptop, and relax for hours with a cup of coffee or tea.

Bars in Zagreb

Obviously, you would want to feel the craft beer culture in Croatia and Zagreb has plenty of breweries, pubs, and bars to taste and enjoy nice brews.

Tolkien’s House

The Old Pharmacy

The Garden Brewery

What to Eat in Zagreb

You’d love Croatian food if you are a non-vegetarian as most of their traditional dishes include meat. Hubby and mini-me enjoyed some of them. For me, I was happy with the side dishes (potatoes, cabbage, and root veggies) and of course, desserts.

Some of the must-try Croatian dishes are:

• Sir i vrhnje (cottage cheese and sour cream)
• Crni rizot (black risotto)
• Zagorsk Štrukli (dough filled with cottage cheese and sour cream)
• Sopamik (savory pie filled with Swiss chard)
• Cuspajz (vegetable stew served with polenta, parsley, carrots, celery, and sour cream)
• Paprenjac (traditional Croatian cookies)
• Rozata (custard pudding)
• Krostule (traditional pastry)
• Knedli (sweet potato dumplings)
• Fritule (Croatian fried dough pastry)

You Must Read: Blue Cave in Croatia: A Croatian Natural Wonder

Shopping in Zagreb

From local stores to huge shopping malls, Zagreb has plenty of options for a shopper in you. It’s always good to shop directly from the manufacturers in local markets rather than in shopping malls.

Museum gift shops are also a good option to shop for local Zagreb souvenirs.

Ilica Street has some unique stores where you can shop for handcrafted local products.

Some of our recommendations are:

• Bashota at Ilica for Croatian jewelry
• Croata at Oktogon for Croatian cravats
• Hippy Garden (Croatian fashion brand) at Masarykova for clothes
• Natura Croatica at Preradoviceva for gastronomic souvenirs
• Arkadija Bookstore at Trg bana Josipa Jelačića for bookish souvenirs
• Bloody Bridge Souvenirs for all kinds of souvenirs for all budgets

Souvenirs to Bring From Zagreb

• Licitars (red heart honey dough cookies)
• Licitar-shaped fridge magnets
• Šestine motif umbrella or clothes
• Lavender products like soaps, cosmetics, or dried lavenders
• Wooden toys for kids
• Croatian candies and chocolates for kids: 505 s crtom, Kiki, Bajadera, Griotte, Cedevita, Peppermint, Arancini, and Bronhi are some of the iconic Croatian candies.
• Cravats (ties)
• Traditional Croatian lace
• Croatian jewelry
• Croatian cheese

Day Trips from Zagreb

Located close to some of the region’s best attractions, Zagreb offers amazing day trips. You can rent a car, ride public transport, or join one of many guided tours to one of the day trip destinations.

Plitvice Lakes National Park , Rastoke, Samobor, Krapina, and Varazdin in Croatia, and Ljubljana and Lake Bled in Slovenia are recommended destinations for day-tripping from Zagreb.

Have you ever been to Zagreb Croatia? How did you like it? We are all ears.

If you want to visit Zagreb sometime soon, make use of our Zagreb guide. We sincerely hope our travel guide to Zagreb helps you plan a perfect trip to Zagreb. If you have any queries, let us know in the comments section below. We’ll be happy to help.

Also, we’d be obliged if you could take five minutes of your time to share this post with the world if it helped you in any way.

Recommended Reading:

• Renting a Car in Europe
• Schengen Visa for Europe
• How to Plan a Trip to Europe
• The Epic 14 Days in Croatia Itinerary
• 7 Best Places to Visit in Croatia
• The Blue Cave in Croatia
• The Island of Vis in Croatia
• Coolest Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• One Day in Dubrovnik Itinerary
• Best Things to do in Split, Croatia
• A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Split, Croatia
• Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
• Things to do in Zagreb, Croatia
• Where to Stay in Zagreb, Croatia
• One Day in Zagreb Itinerary
• Things to do in Zadar, Croatia

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Anjali Chawla

2 thoughts on “A First Timer’s Travel Guide to Visiting Zagreb, Croatia”

Hi, I read your information on Zagreb with interest as we are visiting there in December. It appears to be compact enough to do it on foot. Unless I missed it somewhere you don’t mention how to get from the airport to the city centre by public transport which is probably the first thing people want to know. Arriving in a new city is always daunting but if someone with the knowledge can describe exactly what to do to achieve a hassle free transfer makes such a difference to your visit. Regards.

Thank you so much for stopping by. You are right. Navigating a new city isn’t easy. It’s always good to know how to get to the center from the airport and how to get around the city beforehand. I usually try to mention all the required details in my posts. I don’t know how I missed adding such an important piece of information. I’ve just added the airport transfer section. Thanks for your comment 🙂 Happy Travels!

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15 Best Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

An increasingly popular place to visit, Zagreb is a lovely city with a plethora of great things for visitors to see and do. The Croatian capital has a number of beautiful Austro-Hungarian buildings scattered about here and there while it’s delightful medieval old town is a great place to wander around.

Cafe culture is strong here too; grab a coffee and sit out on a terrace watching the world go by. Whether it is art and culture that you are interested in or history and nature, Zagreb is sure to delight visitors with all that it has to offer.

15. Lotrscak Tower

Located in Zagreb’s Upper Town, Lotrscak Tower dates all the way back to the 13th century and is one of the main landmarks in the city. Distinctive to behold, the tower was constructed to help protect the southern gate to the town and it offers up commanding views over the city.

Looming over the funicular railway next to it, Lotrscak actually means ‘thieves bell.’ For the last hundred years, a cannon shot has rung out at midday to help mark the passing of the hour and allow churches around the city to synchronize their bells. When in Zagreb, it is almost inevitable that you will pass Lotrscak Tower while making your way around the city.

14. Gric Tunnel

Located under the medieval part of the city, Gric Tunnel was built during the Second World War to be an air-raid shelter. Since then, it hosted Croatia’s first raves in the 90’s and is now used to host cultural events, exhibitions, and fashion shows.

Spanning three hundred and fifty meters, the tunnel also serves as a tourist attraction; you can now wander along it before popping up in a completely different part of the city.

13. Archaeological Museum

Due to its strategic location, over the millennia, a host of different civilizations and cultures have ruled or set up home in Croatia. Consequently, the ancient artifacts left behind are captivating to learn about.

The Archaeological Museum is home to some delightful items that really do span the centuries; you can be ogling at a 2500 BC ritual vessel one minute and staring at shields and swords the next. With over 450,000 items housed in the museum, it is a fascinating collection to explore, with some lovely Greek, Roman and Egyptian artifacts.

12. Jarun Lake

Located in the western part of Zagreb, this huge artificial lake is the perfect place to hang out and relax and is very popular with tourists and locals alike. With loads of activities on offer, you can be kayaking and swimming in the lake one minute and cycling and running around it the next.

Its pebbled beaches are the perfect place to catch some sun. While Jarun Lake has lots of outdoor activities for you to enjoy, it also has some fantastic nightlife; there are a number of great bars and clubs for you to check out along the lakeside.

In summer, the lake hosts the INmusic festival, which is great fun and yet another reason to visit Zagreb during the summer months.

11. Croatian Museum of Naive Art

Dedicated to works of art by naive artists, the Croatian Museum of Naive Art houses nearly two thousand paintings, sculptures, and drawings, although only around a hundred of them are on display at any one time. As such, it doesn’t take that long to go around, although it is well worth the effort, as there are some fantastic works on show by Ivan Generalic and Mirko Virius, amongst others.

While the majority of the works exhibited are by Croatian artists, there are a number of pieces by international artists that are showcased – all of them are from the 20th century. With such a unique collection, it is an interesting place to stop by. This was actually the first museum in the world specifically dedicated to naive art.

10. Jelacic Square

Located in the heart of the city, Jelacic Square is a bustling place, full of life and energy. As such, it is definitely worth passing by when you’re in Zagreb. With the downtown part of the city all around it, shops, businesses and offices line Jelacic Square.

The constant flow of people passing through the area makes it a great place for people watching. Named after Count Josip Jelacic, his statue stands proudly in the center of the square amidst all the lovely facades that display such a diverse range of architectural styles.

9. Funicular Railway

Running every ten minutes, the funicular railway in Zagreb connects Ilica Street to Strossmayer Promenade and the Lower Town to the Upper Town. While it only rises 66 meters up the side of Gric hill and is the shortest funicular ride in the world, you find yourself in a completely different part of the city as you enter the medieval part of Zagreb.

Despite the short journey, it is a very steep trip up the side of the hill and many locals have relied on it during the 120 years that it has been running.

8. Dolac Market

Bustling with life, Dolac Market is where locals come to buy their fruit and veg as well as any hams, cheeses and artisanal products that they fancy. Great fun to peruse, this daily farmer’s market is only open in the mornings; consequently, you’ll have to wake up early to really experience the local side of the city.

Mostly featuring fresh produce from farms surrounding the city, it is often called the ‘Belly of Zagreb’ by locals, as so many of them rely on the market for their food. A delightful spot to visit, Dolac Market offers up an authentic side of Zagreb that many visitors don’t get to see.

7. Maksimir Park

The largest park in Zagreb, Maksimir is also its oldest; it was first opened to the public all the way back in 1794. With five artificial lakes, as well as lovely little creeks and meadows, the park is delightful to visit; nature lovers, in particular, will enjoy being in its majestic natural surroundings and there is also a forest for you to explore.

As well as the wild animals and birds that reside in its meadows, forests, and lakes, the city’s zoo is also located in the park and is a great day out for all the family. A very popular place amongst Zagreb residents; Maksimir Park is definitely worth stopping by when visiting the city.

6. Museum of Broken Relationships

If you hadn’t already guessed by the name, the Museum of Broken Relationships is devoted to break-ups and is a fun and quirky place to visit. Located in Zagreb’s Upper Town, the museum’s collection seems like a hodgepodge of random items.

In a way, it is, as they have all been donated by lovelorn people following a painful break-up. With display panels explaining the importance of the item and how it symbolized or defined the failed relationship, the exhibits range from the tragic and sad to the humorous and poignant. A slightly bizarre place, the Museum of Broken Relationships is definitely unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!

5. Zrinjevac

Commonly referred to as Zrinjevac, the Nikola Subic Zrinski Square is located in the center of Zagreb and is a wonderful place to wander around. It attracts both tourists and locals with its beautiful monuments, tree-lined walkways, and impressive buildings.

Acting as both a park and a square, the sculpted landscape is perfect if you want to kick back and relax in nature; there are some lovely fountains and busts of famous people for you to inspect.

Numerous important buildings line Zrinjevac; among them are the city’s fantastic archaeological museum and the country’s Supreme Court. Indeed, art meets architecture, history, and nature in this leafy, peaceful park.

4. Mirogoj Cemetery

As the most important cemetery in the country, it is here that many of Croatia’s most famous former citizens are buried. With politicians and artists, musicians and writers lying side by side with people of all religious denominations, there are lots of impressive gravestones, monuments, and statues scattered about the place.

It is a beautiful cemetery to amble around peacefully. The architect Hermann Bolle designed the main entrance to Mirogoj Cemetery; its impressive architecture that encompasses a dome, arches and arcades certainly lets you know that you are visiting a grand and dignified place.

3. Tkalciceva Street

Bustling with life, Tkalciceva Street is the place where both locals and tourists go to have a good time – it is a must-see when in Zagreb. Named after a Croatian historian, it is a long winding street lined with charming little houses and balconies, which makes it the perfect place for a romantic stroll.

With bars, cafes, restaurants, and clubs lining the streets, there is lots to see and do. You can enjoy some of the best local cuisines here before heading on to one of the nearby bars. Numerous venues offer live music and, with the best nightlife in Zagreb, Tkalciceva Street has something for everyone to enjoy.

2. Zagreb Cathedral

Consecrated in 1217, it is fair to say that Zagreb Cathedral has undergone numerous changes and setbacks over its long and tumultuous history.

Razed by the Mongols shortly after being completed, and severely damaged in an earthquake, the cathedral that stands before us today is a stunning building and the architecture is simply awe-inspiring. Neo-Gothic in style, the facade of the cathedral glistens in the sun and its twin spires dominate Zagreb’s skyline.

Used as an observation tower when the country was invaded by the Ottomans, fortified walls still surround the cathedral at certain points. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, the interior of the cathedral is just as magnificent, with statues and paintings adorning its walls.

With the sarcophagus of the Blessed Aloysius Stepinac lying near the main altar, it is a very holy site and is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. Situated near the main square, you’ll definitely come across the cathedral at some point on your trip to Zagreb.

1. St. Mark’s Church

Dominating the square that bears the same name as it, St. Mark’s Church lies at the heart of Upper Town and is one of the most popular attractions in Zagreb. Despite numerous important governmental buildings lining St. Mark’s Square, it is the church that attracts everyone’s attention, thanks to the distinctive roof that makes it so beautiful to behold.

Proudly displaying Zagreb and Croatia’s coats of arms, the checkered tiles delightfully stand out against the sparkling white building below it and the blue skies above it.

Dating all the way back to the 13th century, the church is a charming place to visit and the architecture draws from Romanesque and Gothic influences. Indeed, the southern portal of the church is Gothic in design and has some splendid little effigies above it, which display some fantastic craftsmanship.

In addition to its exquisite exterior – which is the undoubted highlight of the church – the interior is also lovely to gaze upon as there are some brilliant frescoes coating the walls. Well worth stopping by, no visit to Zagreb is complete without a visit to St. Mark’s Church.

Best Time to Visit Zagreb

With average temperatures hitting 24 to 26°C (75 to 79°F), June to August is the peak season for visiting Zagreb. As such, prices are at their highest and its hotels, restaurants and cafes are full of visitors.

Numerous events like the INmusic Festival take place though with many hiking about Mount Sljeme or cooling off in Jarun Lake. Thanks to the warm weather, Zagreb has a lovely feel to it with many cafes and restaurants offering al fresco dining.

The shoulder seasons of April and May and September and October are also terrific times to visit. While there are still quite a few tourists around, the city is much cheaper and its main sights have fewer crowds. Temperatures remain at a comfortable 16 to 22°C (61 to 71°F); ideal for exploring the center and enjoying some outdoor activities.

Although it rains quite consistently across the year – between 12 and 15 days each month – November to March is the rainiest period. Most tourists stay away and a relaxed atmosphere takes over the city.

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Is Croatia Safe for Travel in 2024?

Generally, Croatia is a safe place for travelers. And a really wonderful place to visit! Keep reading for safety tips and information about Croatia travel.

The stats don't lie: Croatia is the 19th-safest country in the world ! That means that Croatia is statistically safer than both the UK and the US. The only safety issues you’re likely to encounter will involve pickpockets and scammers.

Petty theft and scams are your only concerns

Croatia experiences 4 times less serious crime than the US does. But like any other country with a large number of travelers, Croatia attracts a lot of pickpockets. Our advice: keep your extra cash, credit cards, and passport in your hotel safe and only carry what you need when you’re out and about.   

Areas to avoid after dark

Use local insights to keep safe, mainly in Zagreb and other major cities, recommend steering clear of the area around the Zagreb Bus Terminal and avoiding Ribnjak Park and  King Tomislav Square after dark.

Common scams to avoid

The “buy me a drink” bar scam.

In this scam, a young woman asks if you want to get a drink at a bar nearby. If you accept, she spends the night drinking expensive cocktails on your tab, leaving you with a hefty bill. If you don’t have the cash, bouncers will escort you to the nearest ATM. If you pay by credit card, the bar will add a 0 to the end of your bill, and you won’t be offered a receipt. Avoid this scam by just saying no.

The “gentlemen's club” scam

Gentlemen's clubs should be avoided at all costs—especially in Zagreb. They’re usually owned by criminals who tend to target tourists. In this scam, the bar will overcharge you for drinks (like €2000 for a bottle of champagne) and threaten you if you refuse to pay.

The rosemary scam

In this scam, a Roma (gypsy) woman will offer you a sprig of rosemary, seemingly for free. She claims that this is a token of friendship or it will bring you good luck. If you accept it, she will demand money. If not she will cause an uproar and while distracted, an accomplice may pick your pockets. Small shells, amulets, or medallions may be offered as well.

Public transportation in Croatia is safe

Public transportation in Croatia’s cities is very safe. Just stay alert if you take the bus or train (or the tram in Zagreb) and keep an eye on your belongings, especially at night.

As mentioned above, bus stations are often prime targets for pickpockets, so stay aware of your surroundings.

Taxis and Ubers are also safe

Official taxis in Croatia are very safe and even have apps—which means you can easily order a taxi from your phone without having to worry about being ripped off. The two biggest taxi companies in Croatia are Cammeo and EkoTaxi . If you decide to hail a cab, just remember to only use official taxis (yellow taxi sign with the number on top of the car) with working meters.

Alternatively, Ubers are a really safe way to get around most Croatia cities, like Zagreb and the Croatian Coast .

Croatia is terrific for female solo travelers

If you’re a woman traveling alone, Croatia is among the safest places in the world to visit. That said, it's always good to get an insider's perspective. 

Safety tips (many of which apply to everyone, regardless of gender!):

• Don’t walk alone in poorly lit and deserted areas.
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers. 
• Always take marked taxis, which are readily available at main squares, ferry ports, and bus stations.
• If adventure travel is your thing, join an organized group instead of venturing out in the countryside on your own.
• Catcalling in Croatia isn’t any worse than in any other European country. A firm no or ignoring the comments are enough to deter street harassers.

You won't have to worry about vaccines or safety of drinking water

If you’re arriving from the US and are up to date on your standard vaccines , then you’re all set to visit Croatia. You might want to consider travel insurance, however, in case you fall ill or have an accident.

You don't have to worry about water quality either! The purity of drinking water is monitored by the government . No need to stock up on bottled water while you’re in Croatia. (Whenever you go, we recommend getting a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic. It's an easy way to make your travel more sustainable.)

Emergency numbers to know

Just in case you do find yourself in an emergency situation while you are in Croatia, here are all the important numbers you should know:

• Police / ambulance / firefighters - 112
•  U.S. Embassy Zagreb - (385) (1) 661-2200
• Website - U.S. Embassy Zagreb

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