20 Best Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb, the Capital of Croatia, has no shortage of great things to do. While people may regard Croatia for its coastal towns and as a summer destination with beautiful cities such as Split, Dubrovnik, or Pula, to name a few, you should add the Capital of Croatia to your bucket list as well!
In this travel guide, you’ll learn all the best things to do in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, when you visit, where to eat and some good places.
Best Things To Do In Zagreb Croatia
I didn’t know much about Zagreb before I visited; whenever I hear about Croatia, it is about coastal cities and their beautiful beaches; nonetheless, tourism is booming, bringing many tourists to the Croatian Capital.
If you’re looking for things to do in Croatia and which city to visit, you should add Zagreb to your bucket list!
I first visited Zagreb in August and returned in December. I liked the city’s vibe; it is nice to explore, and the architecture makes it quaint.
If you’re wondering, “is Zagreb worth visiting?” I hope this travel guide about the best things to do in Zagreb will convince you to visit and help you plan your own Zagreb trip or inspire you to add to your travel bucket list.
Those things to do in Zagreb could also cover a good chunk of “what to do in Zagreb in 2 days” if you visit the city for only a short vacation. Many of them are close to one another, so you can fit many of Zagreb’s attractions into a two-day trip.
Fun facts about Zagreb:
Did you know Croatia’s first cravat (necktie) was created around 390 years ago?
Now you do!
While you’re here, check out those beautiful quotes about Croatia; they are perfect to use as Instagram captions for your next post.
This list of the best things to do in Zagreb includes all the top tourist attractions, the best spots to visit, and more.
Ride One Of The Tiniest Funiculars in The World
Taking the funicular is one way to reach the top of the old town hill; if you don’t want to take the stairs up, you only need to pay 4 kunas (~0€50) to ride this tiny funicular.
The funicular, also known as “the old lady,” links the Lower part of town (Donji Grad) and the Upper Part of town (Gornji Grad).
You can say you rode one of the tiniest funiculars in the world after!
Strossmayer Promenade
The Strossmayer Promenade is on the edge of the Upper Town. It is a perfect viewpoint for acing the city from above. From there, you can enjoy the view of the orange roofs and the cathedral while enjoying a pleasant stroll.
Explore Gric Tunnel
The Grič-Tunnel is a pedestrian tunnel located in the city centre, connected by two passageways leading to Mesnicka Street and Stjepan Radic and four more passageways to the south.
Built during WWII, it was initially a bomb shelter and again during the Croatian War of Independence. Since 2016, it has been a tourist attraction and a venue for cultural events.
The entrance can quickly get crowded when the Zagreb tour comes by, but it is pretty spacious inside and fresh in the middle of summer, which is pleasant as Zagreb can get hot.
The tunnel has been open to the public since 2016.
If you’d like to know more about Croatia and Zagreb’s history surrounding the tunnel, you can book a tour of the ‘Croatia Homeland War’.
Admire The Beautiful St Mark Church
The 13th-century Church of Saint Mark is one of the oldest landmarks in Zagreb, located in St. Mark’s Square.
It is famous for its beautiful signature and colourful tiled roof and is a must-see when visiting old Zagreb. While sadly, you cannot visit the church’s inside, it’s still beautiful to admire from the outside, and it’s very close to many main points, so it doesn’t make you go out of your way just to check it out.
Visit One of Zagreb’s many museums
Museums worldwide are always some great activity whenever you visit a city, and it’s the same here; museums are some of the best things to do in Zagreb—precisely the following ones.
There are many fascinating museums to visit in Zagreb, the most famous being the «Museum of Broken Relationships» as it’s uncommon.
- Museum Of Broken Relationships
Located in the old part of town, the Museum of Broken Relationships has an interesting concept; you can guess by its name!
Inside, you’ll find a collection of items and the story behind them; the stories are all about people’s breakups.
Address: Ćirilometodska ul. 2, 10000, Zagreb
Ticket price: 40KN (5€32)
Buy a ticket here
Museum Of Broken Relationships official website.
- Zagreb Museum Of Contemporary Art
The biggest museum in the country displays Croatian and international artists; it’s well worth a visit for anyone interested in modern art.
Address: Av. Dubrovnik 17, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Museum Of Illusions
This museum displays various optical illusion exhibits, and it’s a giant playroom where you can find some games and puzzles.
It’s a fun activity, especially if you’re visiting Zagreb with kids or with friends.
Address: Ilica 72, Zagreb, Croatia
Ticket price: Adults: 60 kn ( 7€98)
Children (5-15 years): 40 kn (5€32)
Buy your Museum of Illusions ticket here.
- Zagreb’s Chocolate Museum
Are you a chocolate lover? Then you must check out Zagreb’s chocolate museum. It’s a fun, interactive experience; you get to taste chocolate in all its forms while learning the history of this delicious food.
It’s a relatively small museum but provides a great and fun experience. There is also a chocolate shop where you can buy some delicious treats as souvenirs for yourself or your family & friends.
Address: Varšavska ul. 5, 10000, Zagreb
Ticket price: Adults: 9€
Children (5-18 years old) 6,50€
Chocolate Museum’s official website.
Check Out Zagreb’s Cathedral
Zagreb Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a Gothic-style cathedral in the city’s old town.
It is probably the most famous landmark of Zagreb and a must-see when you visit the city.
You can get a good view of this beautiful cathedral and its twin towers from various locations in the town. It’s pretty easy as it is the tallest building in Zagreb and Croatia.
The entrance is free, but unfortunately, as the cathedral is currently under reconstruction, you cannot visit.
You can get a beautiful view of the cathedral from the promenade of Stroll Mayer.
Pass By the Historical Stone Gate
You will pass the Stone Gate if you want to walk between the Upper and Lower Town via Kamienita Ul.
The Stone Gate was part of the city wall during medieval times. It is an important sacred place; it’s not unusual to find people praying or lighting candles.
The legend says that the Stone Gate was severely damaged in the 1731 fire, but the painting of the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus remained untouched. The picture is behind a beautiful iron gate.
Check out those different tours to explore Zagreb with a guide
Creep Around the Zagreb Mirogoj Cemetery- One of Europe’s Most Beautiful Cemetery
It is easily one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe, and it’d be a shame to miss out on this spot when you visit Zagreb. Also, it is the most important cemetery in Croatia; you can find many famous people there.
Established toward the end of the 19th century by Hermann Bollé, the city owns this cemetery; therefore, you can find Catholics and people from all religious groups.
The cemetery is vast, and its architecture is imposing and beautiful. I loved exploring it. The most impressive part is the entrance, where you can find some picturesque arcades and beautiful sculpting.
However, since the earthquake of 2021, those parts have been under reconstruction as they have been weakened and damaged.
One of the best things to do in Zagreb is visit Mirogoj cemetery, which is one of my favourites.
Stroll at Zagreb’s Botanical Garden
Founded in 1889 and opened two years later, the Zagreb Botanical Garden is beautiful when visiting Zagreb.
You can find over 10,000 species of plants from all over the world and some adorable turtles in the small pond that add charm to this garden.
Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 9 am to 7 pm / Monday & Tuesday, 9 am to 2:30 pm
Ticket price: 10KN
Address: Trg Marka Marulića 9A, 10000, Zagreb
Visit Beautiful Maksimir Park
A perfect afternoon break walks away from the city without leaving the city. This lovely park is an excellent place for a walk. As you go deeper, you will feel like you’re not in a city anymore but rather in a forest.
You can also find Zagreb’s Zoo in Maksimir Park. You can also enjoy a drink or ice cream from cafes there.
Opening hours: 24 hours, 7/7 days
Address: Maksimirski perivoj 1, 10000, Zagreb
If you love nature and are looking for another great place to check out in Croatia, I highly recommend you take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park. It’s a fantastic trip from Zagreb, and visiting Plitvice in one day is doable.
There are plenty of destinations you can go to from Zagreb by bus; the central Zagreb bus station, “Autbusni Kolodvor Zagreb“, is easy to reach
Ilica Street
While Ilica Street might not be the prettiest street in Zagreb, it is the perfect place for shopping lovers; you’ll find everything from the most expensive shops to the cheapest ones.
If you’d like to enjoy a drink or take a break, there are plenty of lunch or dinner options.
There are plenty of tram stops scattered throughout this long street. Some of the best restaurants in Zagreb are also close to this area.
Check Out Zagreb Covered Passage: Oktogon
Easily one of the most popular covered passages in Zagreb, Oktogon gets its name from its majestic glass roof-shaped octagonal.
It connects the Ilica and the Floral Square, so it’s cool to check it out while you are out and about. It’s also a cool spot to check out during Christmas Advent in Zagreb.
Open 24 hours.
Get Groceries at the Famous Dolac Market
Dolac Market is an open-air farmers’ market and the most famous market in Zagreb. It is where locals get their food.
This quaint market is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; however, many stalls start to close by 1 p.m. From there, you can also see Zagreb’s cathedral.
Check Out Zagreb’s Beautiful Squares
Petar Preradovic Square
This square is also known as the “flower square” (Cvjetni trg) because of the many flower booths and the flower mall. An Orthodox church adds a quaint charm to the square.
It’s the perfect place to grab a meal or a drink while out and shopping.
Ban Jelačić Square
The central square of Zagreb is right below the old city and close to the famous Dolac Market. It’s a huge pedestrian zone.
Events are hosted on the square throughout the year. Around Christmas time, a Christmas market and decorations are ready to celebrate the passage into the new year.
Trg Kralja Tomislava
Located right in front of Zagreb’s central railway station, this beautiful square displays a statue of King Tomislav in front of the station.
You can also find a fountain in the garden that has a pleasant colourful display at night.
Events In Zagreb Throughout the year
There are so many fun events happening in Zagreb throughout the year. When you visit Zagreb, you might be right on time to attend some of them.
Experience Zagreb Advent Christmas Market
Are you wondering what to do in Zagreb in winter? Wintertime in Zagreb is magical; it’d be a shame to miss out on Zagreb during winter. You must visit during Advent time to enjoy Zagreb’s beautiful Christmas market and events. If you visit Zagreb in December, you must check out the Christmas markets!
I think it’s a fantastic way to enjoy Zagreb’s nightlife with all the delightful displays scattered around the city.
It’s also pretty romantic to enjoy with a significant other if you’re travelling together and looking for romantic things to do in Zagreb in winter.
This year, the Zagreb Advent Christmas Market will be held from 30th November 2024 to January 2025.
Zagreb Lights Festival
The Zagreb Lights Festival’s first edition was held in 2017. It is usually held in March and lasts four days. It is a great free thing to do in Zagreb!
You’ll see magical light installations scattered throughout the city and some impressive projections of famous landmarks.
My favourite was the Croatian National Theatre. It’s a beautiful building, and the lights that illuminate it add even more charm to it!
If you visit Zagreb as a couple during that time, it’s also a very romantic activity.
Check out more information about Zagreb’s Lights Festival on the event’s official website.
Hike to Medvegrad Castle
If you’re staying more than a few days in Zagreb, you should check out Medvegrad Castle, located on a mountain near the city.
If you don’t have a car, you can easily take a bus to begin your hike to the castle; going through the mountain is relatively easy and enjoyable. Especially in summer, it’s an excellent way to avoid the heat. Depending on the weather, it can get a bit slippery and muddy during winter.
A guided tour needs to be taken to visit the castle; you’ll be assigned a time slot, so there might be a bit of a wait, depending on when you arrive. The tour was in Croatian; my boyfriend translated it for me as I was the only non-speaking Croatian in the group, but you can find plenty of explanations in English.
It’s also a great activity to do in winter when the mountain is covered in snow; it adds an eerie charm to this beautiful place.
Check out Medvegrad Castle’s Official Website for more information.
Observation Deck Park Grmoščica
If you’d like another activity in Zagreb to escape the city and get a nice view, you should check out the observation deck in the mountain; the trail to get it is straightforward.
There are also some trails for bikes if you want more fun adrenaline.
- While Zagreb is part of the European Union,
Croatia still has its kuna currency. In January 2023, they will switch to Euro.As of January 2023, Croatia’s new currency is the Euro. - Bring a plug adapter to use your electronic devices if you’re from outside of Europe.
Zagreb Useful Information To Plan A Trip
How To Get To Zagreb & Around
Travel To Zagreb By Plane
The easiest way to get to Zagreb would be by plane.
Zagreb Pleso Airport is close to the city; a shuttle to the city bus station costs 5€. Uber is also a relatively cheap option for getting to the city centre.
Several low-cost companies fly to Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport, such as Ryanair. You can check out the best flight prices on Skyscanner or Google Flight.
Travel to Zagreb By Bus
There is a central bus station in Zagreb, which allows you to reach many destinations. You can also save a lot of money that way, especially if you travel on a budget or backpack around Europe.
How to get around Zagreb
Zagreb’s city centre is small when you think it is the country’s capital. Therefore, it is straightforward to get around; you can quickly check out the city’s main attractions on foot.
The easiest way to get around the city is to use the tram or the bus. Zagreb has 15-day and 4-night tram lines.
Tickets can be bought at the Tisak kiosks or the ZET shop. A single-ride ticket costs 10 kn (1€33) and is valid for 90 minutes in one direction.
Is Zagreb worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely! If you’re considering visiting Croatia, you should add a few days to discover the Capital of Croatia.
Uncover the best things to do in Zagreb and its history through its landmarks.
When is the best time to visit Zagreb?
Zagreb is a great destination all year round; each season has its perks.
If you want to enjoy some hot weather, I recommend visiting in the early summer to beat the crowd.
Visiting Zagreb during winter for the Christmas Holiday is also a great option.
There are so many things to do in Zagreb in December with Advent, the city lights up, and you can find many Christmas booths and activities to enjoy the winter holidays fully.
How many days in Zagreb is enough?
Two to three full days are enough to cover most of the best things to do in Zagreb, soak in the city’s essence and uncover some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path activities to do in Zagreb without rushing.
What is Zagreb Famous For?
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and lively atmosphere.
The city’s historic Upper Town (or Old Town “Gornji Grad”), with its iconic landmarks such as St. Mark’s Church and Lotrščak Tower, offers a glimpse into Zagreb’s past, while the bustling Lower Town (New Town “Donji Grad”), brims with trendy cafes, galleries, and museums. Zagreb is also celebrated for its festive Advent season, boasting one of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets.
From exploring museums and art galleries to savouring delicious Croatian cuisine and enjoying outdoor activities in the city’s parks, Zagreb offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and modernity for travellers to explore and enjoy.
Where to stay in Zagreb
Here are some options on where to stay in Zagreb during your trip.
On a budget: Swanky Mint Hostel
Mid-range: Fingerprint Tree Apartment Zagreb
High range: Zagreb, Esplanade Hotel or Zagreb Hotel Capital
You can check out more Zagreb accommodations options here.
Final Thoughts On The Best Things To Do In Zagreb
This concludes my Zagreb travel guide of the best things to do in Zagreb throughout the year.
I hope you found some inspiration for your trip.
Zagreb is an enjoyable city. It shouldn’t be overlooked if you decide to visit Croatia.
It should be a great cityscape and a perfect layover if you plan to visit more of Croatia afterwards or an excellent start to a road trip through Croatia, the Balkans, and nearby countries. I visit Zagreb very often, so I will make sure to update this guide as I go with more great things to do in the city!
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Best Things To Do In Zagreb Travel Guide
✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip
✈ How To Find Flights?
– Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights.
– Google Flights is also a good help when comparing flights.
✈ Where To Book Accommodations?
– Booking.com: plenty of options and ways to get discounts the more you book.
✈ Best Sites To Book Activities
– GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them.
– Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website or different day trips—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…).
✈ Other helpful travel resources
– Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them.
– TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe.
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Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!
Your Zagreb travel guide was most helpful. I would love to visit the Christmas Market. I bet it is magical. Thanks for sharing!
Zagreb is such a fun city. I loved walking around there when I visited. I remember seeing a tower where they fired a cannon every day at noon. The Short funicular is fun too. Food was excellent.
Intrigued by the Museum of Broken Relationships! What a fascinating concept.
So many reasons to plan a trip to Zagreb!
I only passed through Zagreb Airport after a hiking vacation on the Dalmatian Coast. But now I wished I had stayed overnight. The Old Town sounds lovely.
great guide! I’m headed there this fall and can’t wait!
Lovely post! I would love to ride the old lady. I am sure it would be a great experience.