In this Zagreb Guide, we will show you why you should visit the city, when, and its most prominent attractions. So, welcome to Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia, where historical charm meets modern urban life. Zagreb is nestled between the picturesque Medvednica Mountain and the Sava River. It uniquely blends cultural heritage, artistic flair, and lively street life.
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Basic Info about Zagreb
Zagreb is Croatia’s capital and largest city. Located in the northwest part of the country, it has approximately 800,000 people. The city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and welcoming atmosphere. In our Zagreb Guide, we wanted to introduce you to this magnificent city.
Why visit Zagreb
Zagreb, often overlooked by tourists who choose more popular seaside destinations and need help figuring out what to do, is well worth a visit, and the number of great Zagreb tourist attractions might be surprising.
The capital of Croatia has beautiful and impressive architecture, excellent museums, and many more Zagreb must-see places, including alternative spots. It is also one of the best places to learn about Croatia and its history.
A City of Contrasts
Zagreb is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its character. You’ll find a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and contemporary culture, from the medieval streets of Youll (the Upper Town) to the bustling squares of Donji Grad (the Lower Town). The city is known for its picturesque parks, innovative museums, and thriving café culture, which invites you to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Cultural Hub
As Croatia’s cultural heart, Zagreb hosts numerous festivals, art exhibitions, and performances annually. The city is home to various museums, including the unique Museum of Broken Relationships and the Croatian Museum of Naive Art, which offer insights into local and international creativity.
Culinary Delights
Food lovers will appreciate Zagreb’s culinary scene, which ranges from traditional Croatian dishes to modern gastronomy. Be sure to sample local delicacies in konobas (traditional taverns) and explore the city’s bustling markets for fresh produce and artisanal products.
Accessibility and Warmth
Zagreb is easily accessible, with a well-connected public transport system and a compact city center that encourages exploration on foot. The warmth and hospitality of the locals make it easy for visitors to feel at home.
How to Get There
Zagreb is well-connected to major European cities by air. The Zagreb International Airport is about 10 kilometers from the city center and offers flights to and from various destinations. If you prefer traveling by train, regular connections to neighboring countries make it easily accessible from other parts of Europe.
If you want to see valuable plane tickets to Zagreb, try using Skyscanner.
But if you are traveling by bus or train, try using Omio.
How to Get Around
Zagreb offers an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and taxis. Furthermore, its city center is compact and designed for exploration on foot. The tram network is extensive and reliable, making it the backbone of the city’s transport. At the same time, buses effectively serve areas where trams do not. But now, let us share some of your options in this fantastic Croatian capital.
Public Transport
Trams: The primary mode of transport, effortlessly connecting critical areas throughout the city.
- Buses: Seamlessly complement the tram network, ensuring access to the suburbs.
- Tickets: Purchase tickets at kiosks, tram stops, or mobile apps. Remember to validate your ticket before boarding; a standard ticket is valid for 30 minutes.
Walking
- Many attractions are within walking distance, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the numerous parks and squares that provide delightful walking routes.
Biking
- Rentals: Take advantage of the Nextbike system or numerous local rental shops to get on a bike.
Bike Paths
- The city features designated bike lanes that guarantee a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.
Taxis and Rideshares
- Always choose official taxis or rideshare apps like Bolt or Uber for your safety. Taxis can be quickly hailed on the street or booked via phone or app.
Car Rentals
- Renting a car is not advisable for navigating the city center due to parking difficulties; it is better suited for exploring the surrounding areas.
Funicular
- Use the funicular to connect the Lower Town to the Upper Town (Gradec) quickly and enjoyably, offering a scenic ascent.
Zagreb’s transportation options make navigating the city efficient and enjoyable. Exploring this dynamic city is straightforward and rewarding whether you travel by tram, walk, or bike.
Zagreb Card
Zagreb Card provides free public transport and entry to the Museum of Broken Relationships, Chocolate Museum Zagreb, Zagreb City Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, Nikola Tesla Technical Museum, and the Zagreb Zoo.
One significant attraction we in Zagreb Gudie want to show you is Trg svetog Marka, abbreviated Trg sv. Marka, also known as Markov trg) with St. mark Church, is one of the most prominent Croatian symbols.
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Zagreb Guide: What to See and Do
And now, let’s talk about what to see in Zagreb! You will be surprised how many attractions in Zagreb you can find! Firstly, you can start your journey by walking around the Lower and Upper towns. The Lower Town is the heart of Zagreb and the most beautiful area of the city that you can’t miss. The Upper Town is where you will find most attractions in Zagreb. It is the oldest part of the city, dating back to the 11th century, and is so much different than the Lower Town. Instead of grand townhouses, you will find smaller houses, cobbled streets, and winding lanes here.
Here are the finest attractions in Zagreb, in no particular order.
Zagreb Cathedral
The cathedral dates back to 1050. It stands out especially for its Gothic style and architectural details. It also stands out in the Zagreb skyline as the tallest building in the city.
Ban Josip Jelačić Square
Ban Josip Jelačić Square is one of the must-see sights of Zagreb. Josip Jelačić was the governor of Croatia between 1848 and 1859. In the center of the square is a statue in his honor.
Shop at Dolac market
In the center of Zagreb, a few steps from the cathedral, you will find the local farmers’ market – Dolac. It is the best place to buy fresh food from local producers, and even if the prices might be a bit higher, it is still worth paying extra for the quality of the products.
St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Square is a must-visit attraction in Zagreb, situated in the old district of Gradec. On one side of the square stands a Gothic-style church adorned with the coat of arms of Zagreb and the Kingdom of Triune of Croatia on its unique roof. This church, dating back to the 13th century, is simply unmissable. The other side of the square is home to some notable government buildings, including the Banski dvori Palace, serving as the seat of the Croatian Government, and the Sabor Palace, housing the Parliament and Constitutional Court. And the Old Town Hall. You must attend these historical landmarks during your visit to Zagreb.
A shattered sculpture that embodies broken relationships.
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Tkalčićeva Street
When visiting Zagreb, don’t forget to explore Tkalčićeva Street, named after a renowned historian and priest. This famous street has several shops and bars. Interestingly, it was once known as the street of brothels during the twentieth century. You can easily reach it from Ban Josip Jelačić Square in the city’s upper part. Tkalčićeva Street is well-known for its nightlife, and you can enjoy a variety of beers at any of its bars. Pivnica Mali Medo is a great spot to hang out with friends or meet new people. You can also try some typical dishes of the local cuisine, buy souvenirs, or admire the buildings. Don’t miss the statue of Marija Jurić Zagorka, a well-known Croatian journalist, writer, and feminist located on this street.
Maksimir Park
The largest park in Zagreb, Maksimir, is also its oldest, first opened to the public back in 1794. The garden is delightful to visit, with five artificial lakes, lovely little creeks, and meadows; nature lovers, in particular, will enjoy its majestic natural surroundings and a forest 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 trendy place amongst Zagreb residents, Maksimir Park, is worth stopping by when visiting the city.
Zagreb Museums
Zagreb has many museums that have become a top attraction for tourists. With over 3.6 million exhibits, these museums are all around the city. Learning about Croatian art has historically been challenging, but some Zagreb museums have recently become cultural hotspots. Their innovative approach makes them genuinely appealing, and their exciting event programs make museum hopping in Zagreb as chic as clubbing. However, choosing which museums to visit can take time and effort. But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered here in the Zagreb Guide. Here’s our top list of Zagreb museums, complete with special tips on how to get the most out of your visit.
- Museum of Broken Relationships: It was established in Croatia in 2010 by former romantic partners who needed a space to keep their mutual possessions. Since its inception as a mobile exhibition and collaborative initiative, the museum has become a worldwide sensation. People who have undergone heartbreak are welcome to participate by contributing objects and memories from their failed relationships.
- Museum of Illusions: From holograms to mirror mazes to “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” moments, this museum plays with perception, challenging your idea of what’s up and down, what’s real, and what’s an illusion. Be sure to bring your camera, as these 70 interactive installations were made for Instagram.
- Archeological Museum Zagreb: The Archaeological Museum houses more than 450,000 artifacts from Croatia and abroad. Its most famous artifacts are the Zagreb Mummy and the Linen Book of Zagreb. Brought to Zagreb from Alexandria, Egypt, by Croatian explorer Mihael Barić in 1848, the Zagreb Mummy was, for a while, just that.
- Zagreb 80’s Museum: Step back to the “golden ’80s” with a nostalgic museum featuring a recreated Yugoslavian apartment from that era. The museum offers six rooms where visitors can interact with any objects in the donated collection. You can try on ’80s clothing, play a record, or even test your skills with the popular video game of the time, Commodore 64. Come and experience the sights and sounds of the past!
- Nikola Tesla Technical Museum: Paying tribute to the famous engineer and futurist, the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum chronicles the evolution of science and technology over the 19th and 20th centuries with a collection of 10,000 objects related to energy, transportation, firefighting, agriculture, astronautics, and geology.
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Travel Tips
When visiting Zagreb, consider getting a Zagreb City Card, which provides free or discounted entry to attractions and accessible public transportation. Also, check out the numerous festivals and events throughout the year showcasing arts, music, and cultural heritage.
How many days do you visit Zagreb?
You can spend one day in Zagreb, get a taste of the city, and focus on Zagreb sightseeing in the Lower and Upper Town.
But Zagreb deserves more of your time as it gets better and better with each hour spent there. That’s why the optimal time for visiting Zagreb is two days, and then add more days if you want to go for day trips from Zagreb.
When to Go
The best time to visit Zagreb is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. However, the city also has a magical charm during the winter holiday, with its charming Christmas markets and festive decorations.
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Where to Stay
Zagreb has various accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. The city center, particularly the areas around Ban Jelačić Square and Ilica Street, is an excellent choice for easy access to major attractions, shopping, and dining.
Best Neighborhoods
Besides the city center, other neighborhoods worth exploring include the trendy district of Tkalciceva Street, known for its lively atmosphere and numerous cafes and bars. Jarun, located near a beautiful lake, is famous for outdoor activities and nightlife.
Lower Town is the best area to stay in Zagreb for first-timers due to its central location and well-connected public transportation, making exploring the rest of the city easy. It is also the best place in Zagreb for one night and just 30 30-minute drive to the airport.
If you are looking for nightlife, Upper Town is the best choice. It offers a good selection of restaurants and lively nightlife in the bar street Tkalciceva.
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Recommended accommodations
Zagreb offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city, categorized by type:
Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Esplanade Zagreb: A historic five-star hotel known for its elegant decor and exceptional service. It is near the train station and offers luxurious rooms and an on-site restaurant.
- The Westin Zagreb: Set in a tranquil area, this hotel provides modern amenities, a wellness center, and easy access to the city center.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Hotel Dubrovnik: Located on the main square, this hotel features comfortable rooms and is within walking distance of many attractions.
- Hotel Jägerhorn: A charming boutique hotel in the city’s heart, offering stylish rooms and a lovely terrace.
Budget Accommodations
- Hostel Swanky Mint: A trendy hostel with a vibrant atmosphere, offering dormitory and private rooms. It features a bar and a communal kitchen.
- The Dots Hostel is a budget-friendly option located close to the city center. It offers clean and comfortable accommodations with a friendly vibe.
Apartments and Vacation Rentals
- Apartmani Park Maksimir-Rebro: A well-furnished apartment in a quiet area, ideal for families or groups. It’s close to parks and offers a home-like experience.
- Zagreb Center Apartments: Located in Zagreb, just 300 meters from the Main Square, Zagreb Center Apartments offers modern and stylish accommodation with all the necessary amenities for a self-catering stay.
Unique Stays
- The Dots: A boutique hotel with a unique design and artistic flair located in a central area, perfect for those seeking something different.
- Hotel 9: A stylish hotel in the Upper Town known for its contemporary design and proximity to cultural attractions.
Zagreb has plenty of accommodation options to meet every traveler’s needs. Whether you prefer luxury, a cozy boutique experience, a budget-friendly hostel, or a self-catering apartment, you’ll find a place that makes your stay enjoyable and comfortable. Always check recent reviews and availability to ensure a great experience!
Mlinci is a type of pasta that is soaked in duck juices. It is comparable to Yorkshire pudding and makes a great accompaniment to duck.
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What to Eat
When visiting Zagreb, you can taste the influence of Austro-Hungarian heritage in every dish. Grenadier Marša, a pasta dish with onions and cheese, and Kajzeršmarn, a dessert consisting of caramelized pancakes, pasta with cabbage, and turkey with pasta slivers, are some must-try dishes. Don’t forget to indulge in the delightful cheese puff pastries, fresh cream and cheese, doughnuts, and honey and pepper biscuits.
As you can see, Croatian cuisine offers a diverse range of delicious dishes. Be sure to try the traditional Ćevapi, grilled minced meat, Peka, slow-cooked meat and vegetables, Štrukli, a pastry filled with cheese, and various seafood delicacies. Lastly, don’t miss sampling the local wines and rakija, a fruit brandy.
Zagreb Guide – Safety Tips
Zagreb is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, taking basic precautions is always recommended, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Note: Please visit our Travel Resources page for more tips and tricks.
Party Life in Zagreb
Zagreb has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Tkalciceva Street, Marticeva Street, and the area around Ban Jelačić Square are known for their lively atmosphere and comprehensive entertainment options.
Our Zagreb Guide recommends visiting Plitvice Lakes, one of the Croatian symbols.
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Best Day Trips:
Plitvice Lakes: If you want to explore beyond Zagreb, consider day trips to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cascading lakes and waterfalls.
Trakoščan: Discover the 13th-century Trakoscan Castle and learn about its historical heritage on a day trip from Zagreb. Enjoy a wine-tasting experience at a countryside winery and have lunch in a local restaurant.
Ljubljana (Slovenia): Ljubljana (Slovenia’s capital) is only 120 km from Zagreb. So, it is easy to reach it and discover its old city center with Ljubljanica River’s Triple Bridge. You can also visit Lake Bled, whose magical island is not far away. Try booking a tour here.
Olimje is one of Europe’s most beautiful villages, but its spa is even more fascinating. We recommend taking this short trip and relaxing at one of its spas.
Rovinj, Istria: When visiting Croatia, take a day trip to Rovinj in Istria. The Town’s Venetian-influenced architecture and picturesque views, including the Church of St. Euphemia, are must-sees. Take a stroll along the harbor to fully appreciate its beauty. Book the Istria Tour from Zagreb if you want to see Rovinj.
Varaždin is one of the hidden gems. Its many Baroque palaces and churches surround a calm, pedestrianized center.
The local etiquette and customs
In this part of our Zagreb guide, we will introduce you to some local habits and customs that you should know to enjoy your vacations smoothly and happily. When you visit Zagreb, you must understand safety measures, etiquette, and local customs to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are the key points you need to follow:
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Be vigilant in crowded areas and tourist hotspots where petty crimes like pickpocketing occur. Avoid unlit areas after dark; stick to well-lit streets and steer clear of isolated locations, particularly parks. Use reputable public transportation, secure your belongings, and do not enter empty train cars at night.
Learn Basic Croatian Phrases
While many Croatians, especially the younger population, speak English, learning a few Croatian phrases will significantly enhance your interactions with locals.
Respect Social Norms
Do not discuss sensitive topics, such as the Yugoslav Wars or politics, unless you know the person well. If you are invited to someone’s home, wait for the host to begin eating. Keep your hands on the table (elbows off) and say “Dobar tek” (Enjoy your meal) before you start.
Use Appropriate Greetings
The standard greeting is a polite “Dobar dan” (Good day). A firm handshake is typical for formal introductions. Respect personal space, particularly in less familiar settings. While Croatians can be friendly, they often initially appreciate some distance.
Mind Public Displays of Affection
These are generally accepted, but you must know your surroundings, especially in conservative areas. Dress smartly when dining out; while casual attire is acceptable during the day, modest clothing is required in religious sites.
Know Your Emergency Contacts
Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers (112) and have your country’s embassy contact information readily available.
Tipping Etiquette
You are expected to tip approximately 10% in restaurants if the service is good. It’s also courteous to leave a slight change in cafes and bars.
Be Punctual
Punctuality is highly valued, especially for social gatherings or business meetings.
Following these safety tips, etiquette guidelines, and local customs guarantees a respectful and enjoyable experience in Zagreb.
We also advise you to Avoid Unlit Areas.
After dark, stick to well-lit streets and avoid isolated areas, particularly parks.
Conclusion of this Zagreb Guide
Although underrated, Zagreb is a fantastic destination, with plenty to do and see. We strongly recommend visiting it if you are already in Croatia. Whether wandering through its charming streets, enjoying a leisurely coffee in a sun-drenched square, or delving into its rich history, Zagreb promises an unforgettable experience. This guide will help you navigate the city’s highlights, hidden gems, and essential tips for making the most of your visit. Ultimately, we’d like you to share your opinion about Zagreb and Croatia in the comments below.
Note: If you want to know what to do in Zagreb as an LGBT person, we recommend checking out our Gay Zagreb Guide.
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