Zagreb Guide: 40 Incredible Things to do in Zagreb discovering hidden gems

Zagreb Travel guide will walk you through one of the best destinations to visit in Croatia. We have included all the best things to do in Zagreb in a short guide. Essential information that you need to plan your vacation in Zagreb. What to see in Zagreb, best festivals and places to eat with a mix of fine restaurants and tasty street food.

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and its largest city. It is located in the country’s northwest, along the Sava River. The large population, 1 million people, makes it the country the most populated city. The country is at the doorstep of Slovenia, perfect for a few day trips. If you are looking for a guide about Zagreb things to do, this is the perfect place. 

We have highlighted a few sightseeing in Zagreb and some unmissable ones. The city also offers some hidden gems, which we cover through our itinerary. Even though the city is divided into 17 districts, it is easy to navigate. It is a modern European city with a thriving economy and a high quality of life.

It’s now time to go deep in our guide and discover what to see in Zagreb.

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It is a historic city with a lot of culture and architecture.

Additionally, Zagreb is home to many different festivals and events throughout the year, so there is always something going on. The remarkable scene makes the nightlife in Zagreb cool and perfect for every kind of traveller. The affordable prices make Zagreb a destination to visit even if you are backpacking around Europe.

Also, the food in Zagreb is impressive – you definitely won’t be disappointed!

The best time to visit Zagreb is in the spring or fall. The weather is mild, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. However, the summer months are great to visit if you are looking for a more soothing and relaxing vacation.

One of the best times to visit Zagreb is during the shoulder season, when the weather is still pleasant but with smaller crowds. This is typically from mid-September to mid-October or from early April to late May. These months are ideal if you’re looking for a quieter time to explore the city.

Spring in Zagreb

May is a great time to visit Zagreb, as the city comes alive with several festivals and events. One of the highlights is the Zagreb International Film Festival, which takes place over 10 days and showcases a range of international films. Other festivals in May include the Zagreb Fair, one of the biggest trade fairs in Croatia, and the Zagreb Comic Exhibition, which is a must-see for comic book fans.

Winter in Zagreb

However, if you want to experience all Zagreb offers, the winter months are the best time to visit. Many festivals and events occur during this time, and the city is truly alive. It is also the best time to discover some underrated European Christmas markets. No matter what time of year you visit, Zagreb is sure to impress.

Zagreb in Summer

The highest temperatures in Europe in summer take you to evaluate some cooler destinations without leaving the vibes behind. Zagreb is the perfect destination to enjoy the nightlife and spend time outdoors visiting cool places not too far from other European cities.

While backpacking in Croatia, we noticed that Zagreb is definitely a budget destination compared to coastal towns. However, if you want to get on a beach for a few days, discover the surrounding area and coasts of Croatia with a day trip from Zagreb. Check the best options to spend summer in Croatia.

Zagreb airport to the city centre

There are several ways to get from Zagreb Airport to the city centre. The most popular and convenient option is to take a taxi, which can be found outside the arrivals terminal. Another option is to take the airport shuttle bus, which runs every 30 minutes and takes around 25 minutes to reach the main train station in central Zagreb.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can also take the local bus (number 292), which takes around 45 minutes to reach the city centre. You can purchase the ticket at the tak shop at the airport on arrival. The single journey ticket costs about 8KN (€1.06/£0.89/$1.09), and you can pay by card.

How to get around Zagreb

There are a few ways to get around Zagreb. You can either use public transportation, cycle or walk.

Public transportation in Zagreb is efficient and affordable. The city has an extensive network of buses, trams, and trains. A single ride costs around 2 Croatian kunas, approximately 0.27 euros. You can also purchase a day pass for 20 kunas, allowing unlimited rides on all public transportation within Zagreb.

You can buy tickets from the driver on most buses and trams. However, we recommend you purchase your tickets in advance from one of the many tobacco shops in the city. This will save you time and hassle.

When using public transportation, be sure to validate your ticket by stamping it in the machine located on the platform or inside the vehicle. If you are caught without a valid ticket, you will be fined.

Cycling is another excellent way to get around Zagreb. The city is relatively flat, making it ideal for biking. There are many dedicated bike lanes, and bicycles are allowed on most tram lines.

If you choose to walk, you will find that most of Zagreb is very pedestrian-friendly. The city centre is relatively small and compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other.

If you’re planning a trip to Zagreb, you should know a few things before you go.

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and its largest city. It’s located northwest of the country, at the foot of Medvednica mountain. The city has a population of around 800,000 people.

Zagreb was founded in the 11th century, meaning “behind the mountain.” The city has a long history of art and culture and is home to many museums and galleries.

Zagreb is a popular tourist destination for its architecture, museums, and nightlife. The city has a lively music and arts scene, and it’s known for its cafes and restaurants.

Croatian is the official language in Zagreb, but English is also widely spoken. The currency in Zagreb is the Croatian kuna (HRK). The city has a temperate climate, with average temperatures of 18 °C to 25  °C in summer and 0  °C to 10  °C in winter.

Everyone’s travel plans and preferences are different. However, as a general guide, we would recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Zagreb in order to see and see the city’s main attractions.

Of course, if you have more time, then you can explore Zagreb further and visit some of the city’s many museums, galleries and other cultural institutions. Ultimately, it all depends on what you want to see and do while you are in Zagreb.

Admire St. Mark’s Church | Most popular Zagreb sightseeing

Unfortunately, during our visit to Zagreb, we couldn’t get closer to St. Mark’s Church and just admire the building from the edge of the square. The iconic St Mark’s Church is one of Zagreb’s oldest structures, dating back to the 13th century.

The complex was renovated in the 19th century without touching the original structure. The tiled roof is very cool and perfect, depicting the Zagreb emblem and the flags of Croatia, Dalmatia, and Slavonia.

Wander around Josip Jelačića Square

Josip Jelačića Square, often simply referred to as Jelacica Square, is one of the meeting points of Zagreb. The central square is a traffic-free area, which is just cut in half by the picturesque trams. Almost all the tram lines of the cities pass by this square, which makes it the centrepiece of Zagreb.

The bustling Jelacica Square offers many opportunities to relax outdoors in the many bars and restaurants, go shopping at the mall, or just rest on a bench watching people walking.

Enjoy the view of Zagreb

While exploring the city, don’t forget one of the best things to do in Zagreb, find the best viewpoints. Visiting the upper town, which, by the way, is tiring as you have to walk uphill or climb the stairs, will reward you with some of the best city views in Europe.

We loved the landscape of Zagreb from the many terraces. We didn’t find these crowded with tourists taking photos which might be because we visited Croatia in the low season. 

From Zagreb Kula Lotrščak, you can have a perfect shot, including in your composition the smallest funicular in the world. If you continue your walk through Strossmayerovo Setaliste, in the end, you will find what on the map is located as Love Rails. From this balcony, there is a perfect view of the Zagreb Cathedral.

Indulge in local food

Croatian cuisine is as diverse as the country itself, with each region having its specialities. Some of the most popular dishes include ćevapčići (a type of grilled sausage), strukli (a traditional pastry dish), and various seafood dishes.

Croatians also enjoy a variety of international cuisine, such as Italian, Austrian, and Hungarian.

If you’re looking to sample some traditional Croatian cuisine, an excellent place to start is with the country’s national dish: pljeskavica. This grilled ground meat patty is usually made with beef, although pork and lamb are also popular options.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something to your taste in Croatia!

Ride the shortest Funicular in the world

The Zagreb Funicular is a great way to see the city from above. It is located in Tomić Street in the Gornji grad district and dates back to 1893. It runs down a 35-degree incline and is just over 66 metres long.

The funicular cars are decorated with floral motifs, and each has a capacity of 24 passengers. It operates from 7 am to 10 pm daily, and the journey takes just over a minute. A one-way ticket costs 4 kunas (about €0.60).

If you’re visiting Zagreb, take a ride on the Zagreb Funicular – it’s a unique experience!

Shop at Dolac Market

Dolac open-air market is one of the most popular markets in Zagreb and for a good reason. You can find everything here, from fresh products to clothes to trinkets.

The Dolac market is open every day except Sundays. The market’s working hours vary depending on the season, but generally, it is available from early morning until late afternoon. It is an excellent place to buy souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home.

Some of the most popular items include:

• Croatian honey
• Handmade lace
• Hand-painted ceramics
• Croatian wines and olive oils
• locally produced cheeses and meats DONE

Explore Gradec | Zagreb old town

The old core of Zagreb was built in Gradec, the mediaeval part of the city. Gradec was the popular side of Zagreb, opposite Kaptol, where the clergy was based, and the main core is the Cathedral. Most of the craft shops were in Gradec and also the local market.

You can recognise Zagreb’s mediaeval heart by walking through the cobblestone streets around St. Mark’s Church, the Croatian Parliament building and continues through Stone Gate. A guided visit to Gradec is ideal if you have just a short time in Zagreb.

Add this place to your list of things to do in a day in Zagreb.

Walk through Stone Gate

The Stone Gate is an unmissable sightseeing spot in Zagreb. The worshippers pass by the gate to pray and pay respect. According to the legend, in 1731, a large fire destroyed everything in the old wooden gate, apart from the picture of the Virgin and Child.

Since then, this part of the mediaeval Gradec Town has been a sanctuary. People believe the picture has mystical powers and come to pray, light candles, and leave flowers regularly. Stone Gate is a must-see place to visit in Zagreb.

Admire Zagreb Cathedral

One of Croatia’s most significant religious structures is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, popularly known as the Zagreb Cathedral. It is a Roman Catholic institution situated in Kaptol Square, in the city’s heart. A Zagreb tourist attraction guide without the Cathedral is missing out a lot.

The Zagreb Cathedral is one of Croatia’s most significant Gothic structures. It was constructed in the 13th century on Kaptol Hill near the city centre. The cathedral contains two belfries, one of which is available to the public and includes a museum. The cathedral is embellished with exquisite works of art in a three-nave basilica with two bell towers. Just in the 17th century, the Cathedral of Zagreb was renovated, changing some aspects following the Baroque style. Today the Cathedral is open to the public, functions daily for mass, and is the seat of the Archbishop of Zagreb.

Stop for a beer at Pivnica Medvedgrad.

We found it cool to check out Croatia’s beer scene; this land has a modern approach even though its relatively young culture is vast and offers many curated beers.

Like we did in Brussels and Amsterdam, checking some of the best places to taste beer, we have also done in Zagreb. Pivnica Medvedgrad might say nothing to you, but it is one of the most popular pubs in Zagreb. Located in the touristic part of the city, offer drinks and food at fair price and quality. A pint will cost about 25 KN (£2.80 | $3.40 | €3.30).

Go on a walking or food tour in Zagreb

We love guided city tours and always book in advance when planning a trip. It was the same in Zagreb, and we highly suggest checking out this fantastic Zagreb city tour and also the Zagreb food tour. The first gives you an essential highlight of the city and its monumental heritage, ideal to go on the first day and familiarise yourself with the city. Instead, the food tour is essential, searching for things to do in Zagreb. Going on a tour indulging in the traditional cuisine can help you plan a Croatia itinerary and have you covered for the rest of the trip.

Walk through Gric Tunnel

Beneath Zagreb, there is a tunnel that will take you from one side to another of the city. The Grič Tunnel, built in 1943, was used as an evacuation tunnel in WWII; after the war, it was turned into a storage unit before being abandoned for years.

Just in the late ’90, the 350 metres tunnel was taken to new life, becoming the centrepiece of the nightlife in Zagreb. Only in 2016, the Grič Tunnel reopened as a cultural centre hosting exhibitions open to the public and pop-up bars from time to time. You can get into the tunnel from several entrances, often hidden through the buildings. One entrance is next to the ice cream shop Melt, Ilica 8. The main entrance, which is the one we entered at first  – Tomićeva. Another entrance at midway is next to the Funicular entrance.

All the entrances to Gric Tunnel:

• Mesnička Street
• Radićeva Street
• Art Park Entrances 1 and 2
• Ilica Entrance

Catch the show at the National Theatre

The Croatian National Theatre is one of Croatia’s most important cultural institutions. The theatre is home to the Croatian National Opera, Croatian National Ballet, and several other performing arts companies. 

It is a popular tourist attraction, and many visitors to Croatia make a point of attending a performance at the theatre.

The theatre’s rich history has played an essential role in developing Croatian culture. Today, it is a leading centre for the performing arts in Croatia and continues to play a vital role in the country’s cultural life.

The show is a great way to learn about the country and its people. It’s a fantastic way to have fun and learn about the culture and history of Croatia. After strolling around Zagreb for three days, it was time to chill and relax, and the park outside the Theatre is just the perfect place to unwind in Zagreb. We feel this is a little hidden gem in Croatia and should be on your list of things to see in Zagreb.

Enjoy a sunny day in the park.

We walked a lot in Zagreb in 2 days, but it was worth it. The weather was excellent, and we could enjoy a bit of breeze, trying to get tan in the many parks in central Zagreb. This activity made it to our list of best things to do in Zagreb.

Some of the best areas to enjoy a few bits of relaxation is Park Zrinjevac with its beautiful pagoda in the middle, King Tomislav Square not far from the other park and next to the train station, often used for public events. Other great green spaces in Zagreb are Park Bele IV and Park Grič on the other side of the centre, nearby the historic Lotrščak Tower.

Admire the Oktogon passageway

If you follow our journey, you already know how much we love photography. Before heading to Croatia for our backpacking trip in eastern Europe, we researched the best photography spots in Zagreb, and the Oktogon passageway is one of the top hot spots. Architect Josip Vancaš designed the urban passageway in Zagreb.

The shape is an Octagonal atrium that gives the name to the structure in a very old-fashioned style. You can discover Oktogon by going to Cvjetni trg, one of the most lively squares in Zagreb and get through the arches of the beautiful building, right at the centre there is your point of interest.

There are plenty of restaurants and bars just around the passageway, but walking a couple of blocks more, there is one of the lively shopping streets of Zagreb. If you are after some shopping in Zagreb, roam around.

Learn about the 1990s war

During the 1990s war, Zagreb was already Croatia’s capital. The Yugoslav People’s Army aggressively pounded the city in an attempt to push out the Croatian Defence Forces.

On the other hand, the HOS could hold their ground and eventually beat the JNA. Following the war, Zagreb was designated as the capital of the newly independent Croatia.

Stay at noon at Lotrščak Tower | Zagreb cannon tower

Among the most incredible things to do in Zagreb, there is definitely to visit Lotrščak Tower. Often recognised as the cannon tower of Zagreb, the stunning building is on one of the city’s highest points. The landscape is breathtaking, and we suggest visiting at sunset.

Since 1877 the Grič cannon has been fired at noon in memory of the defence against the Turks and the freedom of Zagreb. However, the cannon is still silent after the violent earthquakes of May and December 2022. You can still visit the tower and discover the inside. The entrance fee is 20 KN (£ 2.20 | $ 2.70  | € 2.65).

Deep into the coffee scene

While in the city, you can’t miss too deep into the coffee scene. Zagreb things to do guide is nothing without some relaxing coffee stops. Zagreb is a lively capital, one of the best we have visited in Europe. Time seems to go slowly, and the locals are very friendly. Usually, the cost of a coffee in Zagreb is anything between 10 KN to 25 KN (€1,30/€ | $1,30/$3,30 | £1,10 | 2,80).

Cogito is the biggest coffee chain in Croatia, and there are just a few Starbucks in town. For the most kitsch and retro atmosphere, visit the Program Bar. However, our favourite was the Bacchus jazz bar, with excellent coffee and drinks and a calm atmosphere in a secluded garden. Another hidden bar worth mentioning on our things to do in Zagreb is the Swanky Monkey Garden, a bar part of the hostel, with a lively atmosphere, a wide range of drinks and excellent coffee in cool surroundings.

Eat gelato in the old town

Walking through the cobblestone streets of Gradec, you have to stop by an ice cream shop. Especially if you visit Croatia in summer, when the temperatures are scorching, a gelato in the old town is the best way to cool down.

Head to Tkalčićeva Street, which is the most popular among tourists with many bars, restaurants and shops. We stopped at Melt on Radićeva ul. On the way to discover the highest part of Zagreb. The ice cream shop is right next to Zamardijeve Stube, a narrow street leading to the staircases taking you to the scenic spots of Zagreb.

Admire the street art

Zagreb is home to some fantastic street art. You can find it in various locations around the city, and it’s definitely worth admiring.

Some artists who have put their mark on Zagreb include Guerrilla Group, Miro Živković, and Tomislav Brozović. Head to Tkalčićeva street in Zagreb to see some incredible street art.

There are many different murals and graffiti pieces to admire, all of which add a splash of colour to the cityscape. Be sure to take some time to explore this vibrant area – you’ll be glad you did!

Visit the unusual Museums (Museum of Hangovers and the Broken relationships)

The Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb is a one-of-a-kind museum dedicated to celebrating failed relationships. Olinka Vistica and Drazen Grubii, two artists, inspired by their break-up to establish a venue where individuals could share their memories and artefacts from previous relationships, launched the museum in 2010.

Since then, the museum has been a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, who come to see the exhibits and hear the stories of heartache, loss, and love. The museum is also a popular wedding photography location!

Be amused by the architecture.

Zagreb is a city with a long and rich history, and its architecture is reflective of that. From the Gothic Cathedral to the baroque-style St. Mark’s Church, there are plenty of beautiful buildings to admire in Zagreb.

Housed in a former Austro-Hungarian military fort, the Museum of Contemporary Art is also worth a visit. For a taste of Zagreb’s more modern side, head to the Mirogoj Cemetery, which was designed by Croatian architect Herman Bollé and is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe.

Have fun at Swanky Monkey Garden

We have already introduced the Swanky Monkey garden; it is one of the most incredible places in Zagreb for backpackers. What we found very interesting is that the kind of beer garden, open to everyone, not just the guests, is lively, and there is always something going on. If you are looking for fun things to do in Zagreb, the Swanky Monkey Garden will not disappoint you.

Walking through the Swanky Monkey Hostel entrance, you have to climb the stairs to find the outdoor area with live music on Saturday and many other events during the week.

Discover a hidden coffee shop in the garden

From a garden to a more secluded one. We found it while searching for a place to rest after we left our heavy backpacks in the lockers inside the train station of Zagreb.

The hidden garden has just a not-so-visible sign outside the old buildings. You will never think that there is a full swing bar behind the dilapidated structure.

The Bacchus jazz bar is one of a kind, and the staff is very smiley and interactive. We found little to no foreigners while staying there for about an hour, making us think it is an authentic, hidden coffee bar in Zagreb. They host music events, especially on the weekend and are open until late every day.

Eat local in a bakery

When we are visiting a new country, the first thing is to go and grab some food from a local bakery. There are two main reasons why we do that. First, it is cheap, and you can stay on a budget from day one. The second, and most important reason, is that we want to discover the area slowly and understand where to eat great, but also because usually, the food at a bakery is fresh and of good quality. Zagreb didn’t disappoint with this choice. Also, we believe that bakeries in Zagreb are much better than in other parts of the country. Milnar is the local bakery chain which offers excellent pizza, sweet treats and a few stools to eat indoors. Look out for local bakeries more than chains, as these tend to be cheaper and tasty.

Hop on a typical tram

The best way to get around Zagreb is by using public transport. There are just a few cities left with old trams running around the centre, and Zagreb is among them. The best place to see the trams passing by is in Trg Bana Josipa Jelačića, the main square of Zagreb.

The trams ran until late at night and were the best way to catch our night bus to Dubrovnik. A trip on the bus costs nothing, about 8KN (€1.06/£0.89/$1.09), and you can pay by card at the machine next to big tram stops or the Tak shops.

Watch the lively Zagreb from the 360 Bar

Zagreb 360° is the perfect spot to admire the cityscape and get a new perspective on the Croatian capital. It is located on the 17th floor of the Neboder building and offers uninterrupted panoramas over Zagreb.

Visitors can enjoy the city’s skyline, parks, rivers, and famous landmarks such as the Zagreb Cathedral and the Croatian National Theatre. On a clear day, you can even see nearby mountains.

If you’re looking for a romantic spot to watch the sunset, Zagreb 360 is where to be. Get a drink from the cafe and enjoy the stunning views of the city as the sun goes down.

Get lost in Park Grič

Park Grič is often referred to as the green lung of Zagreb’s upper town; once, it was a town on its own. The beautiful park starts from the Strossmayer promenade, with Lotrščak tower and Mesnička street within its limits. This attractive park contains a section of Zagreb’s original mediaeval defence wall, which has been repaired. The entire park was refurbished in 2018 with benches, a fountain, and plenty of green space. However, the most important thing to do in Zagreb’s upper town and Park Gric is to get lost and admire the panoramic view.

Step into the Art Pavilion of Zagreb

We fell in love with the grandeur of the architecture of Zagreb. The Art Pavilion is next to the main train station and on our last day in the capital we spent a lot of time around this area.

The complex is today an art gallery, among the most popular in the country. Unfortunately, even though recently renowned, the Art Pavilion of Zagreb remains closed to the public after heavy damages caused by the strong earthquake of 2020.

Relax in the park Maksimir Park

If you want to unwind, Zagreb has many parks. One of the most popular is Maksimir Park, which has a considerable lake ideal for a stroll.

Another great choice is Jarun Lake Park, which is very popular with residents throughout the summer.

Visit Mirogoj cemetery

The Mirogoj Cemetery is one of Croatia’s most beautiful cemeteries. It is a must-see attraction for anybody visiting Zagreb. The cemetery is well-known for its architecture, art, and breathtaking views. It’s a place ideal for photography enthusiasts; however, please remember to keep quiet and pay your respect.

The vast area offers many beautiful spots from the entrance. Since it is about 40 minutes from the old town you must take a bus to reach the place, so organise the trip in advance. The cemetery is open every day from 6 am to 8 pm, including the weekends.

Discover Medika | The alternative Zagreb

Our guide aims to be complete, so we place Medika as an unmissable place to see in Zagreb. We were so excited to visit Zagreb that we wanted to make the best of it in a few days. Medika is a cultural centre of the alternative scene of Zagreb. 

Mainly frequented by locals, Medika throws huge parties and live concerts, offering the best atmosphere, drinks, music and beers. Even if nothing is going on in Medika, it is an excellent place to drink a beer and enjoy the free street art open-air gallery.

Find brutalist architecture

Zagreb’s brutalist architecture can be found in various locations throughout the city, but mostly at its edge in the neighbourhoods. 

Brutalist architecture is often associated with communist architecture and Croatian modernism. The concrete buildings, for some ugly for others beautiful, were built to offer solutions to the request of houses and solve the problem of lack of properties available to the lower classes. One of the prerogatives of building in that era was that they should require low costs, be efficient and offer as much space as possible without thinking about aesthetics. The most famous example of brutalist architecture in Zagreb is the Mammoth or Mamutica, which contains 1169 individual flats and hosts about 5000 people.

Another spot to visit if interested in communist buildings is to check out the Kockica (The cube), built in 1968 and served as the Croatian communist party headquarters.

Discover Zagreb Lower Town

The modern Lower Town of Zagreb was built in the 1800s, and it’s all wide avenues and magnificent neo-classical buildings, as opposed to the mediaeval core’s labyrinthine alleyways.

Today you can find some of the best accommodation in Zagreb and most of the meeting points of the city. The Lower Town also hosts events and is particularly active in summer.

Best tours in Zagreb

Jump back in time to Karlovac

We arrived at Karlovac early in the morning; it was our interchange on the route from Split to Rijeka in Istria for the last leg of our epic Croatia 2 weeks itinerary. The city, about 56 Kilometres south-west of Zagreb, was still empty, and the market was just opening up.

Karlovac is popular because it is in central Croatia, midway between Zagreb and Rijeka. However, the main reason Karlovac is famous is its home to the most popular beer label Karlovačko.

You can make your way around Karlovac in a few hours by exploring the local market, seeing the old walls, Dubovac Castle and eating traditional food at the affordable restaurants.

Visit Slovenia in a day

Go on a day tour from Zagreb, crossing the border and discovering beautiful Slovenia. The 12 hours of tour with a guide will cost little as € 115 (KN 900 | $120 | £100). We suggest this tour with Get your Guide, which will take you to the gorgeous Ljubljana the capital city of Slovenia. Besides that, the tour is focused on giving you the best in just one day, enjoying the famous Postojna Cave and the impregnable mediaeval marvel known as Predjama Castle; book your spot in advance as it is likely to sell out fast (Transport included).

Go on a day trip to Plitvice Lake

One of Croatia’s oldest and most significant national parks is Plitvice Lakes. One of Croatia’s most popular tourist spots, Plitvice National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The iconic natural area is located between Zagreb and Karlovac, secluded in Croatia’s mountainous region, covering about 300 square kilometres.

The ideal way to experience this natural marvel is on a day excursion from Zagreb. Enjoy the incredible 16 lakes and waterfalls that connect each other. The park is home to several species of animals, including bears, wolves, and lynxes. Visitors to the park can get around via hiking, bike, or boat tours.

Enjoy a day in the nature park of Medvenica

The Medvednica Nature Park is located in central Croatia, just north of Zagreb. The park covers an area of 96 square kilometres and is home to some hiking trails, forests, and meadows.

The park is also home to the Medvedgrad castle, built in the 13th century. The Medvednica Nature Park is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.  

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Our final thoughts about visiting Zagreb

Zagreb is a great city for tourists interested in history and culture. The city has fabulous museums and galleries that showcase the area’s rich history. Many historic buildings and monuments are accessible to the public, and some just require a little donation or derisory fee. There is much more to see and do than you can cover in a single day. Plan to spend at least two to three days in Zagreb to fully enjoy the city.

However, this city tour provides an excellent overview of the main sights and attractions. Thanks for reading this guide, and we hope you have a great time in Zagreb! Zagreb is the perfect city to start your Croatia itinerary. The central location offers multiple opportunities to visit other country cities such as Rijeka, Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik.

Is Zagreb expensive to visit?

We found Zagreb affordable and relatively cheap compared to other European Capitals. From friendly and low-budget accommodation to plenty of street food and affordable mid-range restaurants, Zagreb is the perfect destination for Digital nomads and budget travellers, but also for people looking for a workation and backpackers.

Is Zagreb safe to visit?

Yes. We found Zagreb very safe, even walking at night. However, mind your belongings as there are many pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Is Zagreb worth visiting?

Yes. We love Zagreb; it is a fabulous city with great vibes. Zagreb is perfect either for just tasting another European Capital but also for a slow pace travelling around the continent. Walk through the vibrant markets, venture into the lively cafe scene, explore the surroundings on a day trip or two and discover the museum, architecture and incredible history. Zagreb can be the gateway to Croatia’s Coast side.

How many days in Zagreb?

You should plan about three or more days in Zagreb. To get the city in full swing, a one or two-day trip to Zagreb might not be enough to enjoy the local lifestyle. There are plenty of activities to fulfil an entire week in Zagreb, exploring the surroundings and discovering hidden gems in Croatia.

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Every time is good to travel and make new experiences. As London based travel bloggers, it’s easy to find cheap flights and explore new places even just at the weekend. Travelling around Croatia was amazing, we explored incredible places and done fantastic experiences while discovering around. For more inspiration about Croatia, here is what we suggest:

SEASIDE AND BEACHES

How to spend summer in Croatia

Croatia off the beaten path

ITINERARIES AND GUIDES

Croatia Bucket List
Things to do in Dubrovnik
How to spend 3 days in Split
Best Instagram Spots in Dubrovnik
Backpacking in Croatia
The best one day itinerary in Durbvonik