Why Visit Zagreb? ⭐
When we arrived in Zagreb, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. Croatia’s capital is often overlooked in favour of Dubrovnik, Split and the Adriatic coast—but after spending two days here, it quickly became one of our biggest surprises. Elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture, leafy parks, bustling markets and a relaxed café culture give Zagreb a character all of its own.
We loved wandering the historic Upper Town, discovering hidden laneways, browsing Dolac Market and simply soaking up the atmosphere over coffee with the locals. If you’re visiting Zagreb for the first time, these are the experiences we think you shouldn’t miss.
Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?
Before visiting Zagreb, we’d heard mixed opinions. Some travellers suggested spending just a day here or even skipping Croatia’s capital altogether in favour of the coast. Looking back, I’m so glad we ignored that advice.
We genuinely enjoyed our time in Zagreb. Its grand Austro-Hungarian architecture, leafy parks and compact historic centre make it a wonderful city to explore. While it doesn’t have the dramatic coastline of Dubrovnik or Split, Zagreb offers something different—a chance to experience everyday Croatian life at a slower pace.
When we visited, the city was still recovering from the devastating 2020 earthquake. Today, much of the restoration has been completed, with many landmark buildings reopened and welcoming visitors once again. Some restoration work, including parts of Zagreb Cathedral, is still ongoing, but rather than detracting from the city, it reflects Zagreb’s resilience and commitment to preserving its rich heritage.
For us, Zagreb was one of Croatia’s biggest surprises. Rich in history, culture, excellent museums, bustling markets and beautiful parks, it’s a city that’s well worth more than just a quick stopover. If you allow yourself a couple of days to explore beyond the headline attractions, there’s a good chance Zagreb will surprise you too.
How Many Days in Zagreb?
We spent two nights in Zagreb, which gave us enough time to experience the city’s highlights at a relaxed pace. If you’re visiting Croatia for the first time, I’d recommend allowing at least two full days. This gives you time to explore the historic Upper Town, wander through Dolac Market, visit a few museums and simply enjoy the city’s laid-back atmosphere without feeling rushed.
If you’re short on time, it’s certainly possible to see many of Zagreb’s main attractions in a single day. However, if you enjoy slower travel, discovering local neighbourhoods and experiencing a destination beyond the major tourist sights, you’ll appreciate spending an extra day here.
Zagreb also makes an excellent starting or finishing point for a Croatian itinerary, with convenient connections to destinations such as Plitvice Lakes National Park, Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik.
Where to Stay in Zagreb
We stayed in the Lower Town (Donji Grad) and found it to be an excellent base for exploring the city. From here, we could easily walk to Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral, Dolac Market, the Upper Town and many of Zagreb’s best museums, cafés and restaurants. It offered the perfect balance of convenience, elegant architecture and a lively local atmosphere.
For first-time visitors, I’d recommend staying in the Lower Town, particularly around Ban Jelačić Square or the Green Horseshoe. You’ll have easy access to Zagreb’s excellent tram network while remaining within walking distance of most of the city’s major attractions.
If you prefer a quieter, more historic setting, the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) offers boutique accommodation surrounded by centuries-old buildings and cobbled streets. Travellers looking for nightlife and a vibrant café scene may enjoy staying near Tkalčićeva Street, while those on a tighter budget will find a good selection of hostels, apartments and affordable hotels throughout the city centre.
Whatever your budget, it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance if you’re visiting during summer or the popular Advent Christmas Markets, when Zagreb attracts visitors from across Europe.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Staying in the Lower Town meant we rarely needed public transport. Exploring on foot also led us to discover charming side streets, hidden courtyards and local cafés that we might otherwise have missed.
Getting Around Zagreb
Getting around Zagreb is easy, with many of the city’s major attractions—including Ban Jelačić Square, Dolac Market, Zagreb Cathedral and the Upper Town—all within comfortable walking distance of one another.
For destinations a little further afield, Zagreb has an excellent network of trams and buses that makes exploring the city simple and affordable. Ban Jelačić Square is the main transport hub, with tram services running throughout the day. Tickets can be purchased from kiosks, newspaper stands, ticket machines or via the official ZET mobile app.
If you’re arriving by air, Franjo Tuđman Airport is around a 30-minute drive from the city centre. An airport shuttle bus operates between the airport and Zagreb’s main bus station, while taxis and ride-share services such as Uber and Bolt are readily available. We found ride-share services to be convenient, reasonably priced and an excellent option when travelling with luggage.
If you’re planning to visit several museums and attractions using public transport, it’s worth considering the Zagreb Card, which includes unlimited travel on the city’s tram and bus network, along with free or discounted entry to many of Zagreb’s most popular attractions.
For visitors who prefer a guided introduction to the city, hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses and a variety of walking tours depart from Ban Jelačić Square.
Zagreb Visitor Information Centre
If you’d like maps, local recommendations or up-to-date visitor information, the Zagreb Visitor Information Centre is conveniently located in Ban Jelačić Square. The friendly staff can help with sightseeing suggestions, transport information, current events and day trip ideas to help you make the most of your visit.
Progressive Traveller Tip: If you’re staying in the Lower Town or near Ban Jelačić Square, you’ll be able to explore most of Zagreb’s highlights on foot. Save the trams for attractions a little further afield, such as Mirogoj Cemetery, and enjoy wandering the city’s streets at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit Zagreb
Zagreb is a year-round destination, with each season offering a different experience. The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for, whether that’s colourful parks, outdoor cafés, festive Christmas markets or fewer crowds.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most enjoyable times to visit Zagreb. As the weather warms, the city’s parks and gardens burst into colour, outdoor cafés fill with locals and the streets take on a lively atmosphere. Mild temperatures make it an ideal time to explore the Upper Town, stroll through the Green Horseshoe and browse Dolac Market.
Summer (June to August)
We visited Zagreb in early June and found it to be an ideal time to explore. The days were long, warm and perfect for walking, while cafés, restaurants and public squares buzzed with activity well into the evening. Although temperatures can occasionally climb above 30°C, Zagreb generally feels less crowded than Croatia’s coastal destinations during the peak summer months.
Summer is also a great time to enjoy the city’s outdoor festivals, rooftop bars and open-air events before continuing your journey to Croatia’s islands or the Adriatic coast.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings cooler temperatures, colourful foliage and fewer visitors. It’s a wonderful season for slower-paced sightseeing, local markets and cosy cafés. The comfortable weather also makes it ideal for exploring Zagreb’s museums, galleries and historic neighbourhoods.
Winter (December to February)
If you’re visiting in December, you’re in for something special. Zagreb’s Advent Christmas Markets are regularly ranked among the best in Europe, transforming the city into a festive wonderland filled with sparkling lights, live music, food stalls, mulled wine and ice skating.
While winter temperatures can be cold, the festive atmosphere more than makes up for it, making December one of the most magical times to visit Croatia’s capital.
Progressive Traveller Tip: If it’s your first visit to Zagreb, I’d recommend travelling in late spring or early summer. We loved visiting in June, when the weather was perfect for sightseeing, outdoor dining and enjoying the city’s relaxed atmosphere before the peak holiday crowds arrived.
1. Ban Jelačić Square
We began exploring Zagreb in Ban Jelačić Square, the city’s vibrant heart where locals, visitors and trams all seem to converge. It didn’t take long to realise this was the perfect place to get our bearings before setting off to explore the historic centre.
Dominated by the impressive equestrian statue of Ban Josip Jelačić, a Croatian military leader and national hero, the square has been the city’s main meeting place for generations. Today it’s surrounded by cafés, restaurants, shops and historic buildings, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day.
From here, it’s an easy walk to many of Zagreb’s major attractions, including Dolac Market, Zagreb Cathedral and the Upper Town. If you’re joining a walking tour, chances are it will begin here too, making Ban Jelačić Square the ideal starting point for your visit.
Progressive Traveller Tip: We found Ban Jelačić Square to be the perfect place to start exploring Zagreb. Arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere before the city gets busy, or return in the evening when the square comes alive with locals meeting friends and enjoying the cafés.
2. Dolac Market
Just a short walk from Ban Jelačić Square, we found ourselves at Dolac Market, Zagreb’s bustling farmers’ market and one of the best places to experience everyday life in the city. Known for its distinctive rows of bright red umbrellas, the market has been serving locals since 1930 and remains one of Zagreb’s most loved landmarks.
We enjoyed wandering through the colourful stalls filled with fresh fruit and vegetables, local cheeses, honey, olive oils, flowers and homemade products from nearby farms. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see locals doing their daily shopping while visitors stop to sample regional delicacies and pick up authentic Croatian souvenirs.
If you enjoy food, don’t rush your visit. Take time to browse the produce, chat with the stallholders, then settle into one of the nearby cafés to watch the city come to life. Arriving in the morning offers the best atmosphere and the widest selection of fresh local produce.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Visit Dolac Market before midday when the stalls are at their busiest and the market is full of local life. It’s one of the best places in Zagreb to experience the city beyond the major tourist attractions.
3. Zagreb Cathedral
Just beyond Dolac Market stands Zagreb Cathedral, one of Croatia’s most recognisable landmarks. As we approached, its soaring Gothic spires dominated the skyline, making it easy to understand why it has become the symbol of the city.
Officially known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, it has stood at the heart of Zagreb for centuries. Although restoration work continues on parts of the exterior following the 2020 earthquake, the cathedral remains one of the city’s must-see attractions.
Step inside to admire the peaceful interior, soaring vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows and impressive religious artwork. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture or simply looking for a quiet place to pause during a busy day of sightseeing, the cathedral is well worth a visit.
Before leaving, take a stroll through the surrounding Kaptol neighbourhood. Its historic streets, traditional buildings and relaxed atmosphere provide a fascinating contrast to the bustle of nearby Ban Jelačić Square.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Even if parts of the cathedral’s exterior are still under restoration during your visit, don’t let that discourage you. Zagreb Cathedral remains one of the city’s most important landmarks and an essential stop on any first visit.
4. Explore the Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
From Zagreb Cathedral, we made our way into the city’s historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad), one of the oldest and most picturesque parts of Zagreb. Wandering through its narrow cobblestone streets, colourful buildings and quiet courtyards felt like stepping back in time.
This medieval district is home to many of Zagreb’s most important landmarks, including St Mark’s Church, the Croatian Parliament, the Government Building, Stone Gate and Lotrščak Tower. Around every corner we discovered charming laneways, small cafés, art galleries and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Lower Town.
One of the things we enjoyed most was simply slowing down and exploring without a plan. Unlike some of Europe’s busier historic centres, the Upper Town has a relaxed atmosphere that encourages you to wander, stop for photos and appreciate the city’s history at your own pace.
Whether you choose to arrive on foot or take Zagreb’s historic funicular, the Upper Town is a highlight of any visit and offers a wonderful introduction to the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Allow yourself plenty of time to explore beyond the main sights. Some of our favourite moments came from wandering the quiet side streets, where you’ll find hidden courtyards, local galleries and beautiful views across Zagreb’s rooftops.
5. Ride Zagreb’s Historic Funicular
One of the most enjoyable ways to reach the Upper Town is aboard Zagreb’s historic funicular. Although the journey lasts less than a minute, it’s a charming experience and one of the city’s most iconic attractions.
Originally opened in 1890, the Zagreb Funicular is one of the oldest public transport systems in Europe and connects the Lower Town with the Upper Town in just 64 seconds. After undergoing a major restoration, it continues to serve both locals and visitors while preserving an important piece of Zagreb’s history.
While it’s certainly possible to walk up the hill, we enjoyed taking the funicular before spending the afternoon exploring the cobbled streets of Gornji Grad. It’s a fun way to experience a small piece of Zagreb’s heritage and enjoy a different perspective of the city.
The lower station is only a short walk from Ban Jelačić Square, making it easy to include as part of your sightseeing route.
Progressive Traveller Tip: The ride is incredibly short, so have your camera ready. Even if you decide to walk back down, taking the funicular at least once is a quintessential Zagreb experience.
6. Visit St Mark’s Church
No visit to Zagreb’s Upper Town is complete without stopping at St Mark’s Church, one of the city’s most photographed landmarks. Although the church itself is relatively modest in size, its colourful tiled roof makes it instantly recognisable.
Built in the 13th century, the roof features two striking coats of arms—one representing the Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia, and the other the City of Zagreb. It’s a beautiful example of Croatian craftsmanship and one of the most iconic images you’ll see in Zagreb.
The church stands in St Mark’s Square, surrounded by some of Croatia’s most important government buildings, including the Croatian Parliament and Government Offices. Despite its political significance, we found the square to be peaceful and a lovely place to pause while exploring the Upper Town.
While the interior is generally only open during services or special events, the church’s distinctive exterior and historic setting make it well worth including on your walking route.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon if you’d like photos with fewer people. The colourful tiled roof is best appreciated from the middle of St Mark’s Square.
7. Walk Through the Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata)
As we continued exploring the Upper Town, we passed through Stone Gate, the only remaining medieval gate from Zagreb’s original fortifications. More than just a historic landmark, it’s also one of the city’s most important places of pilgrimage.
Inside the gate is a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, where locals stop to light candles and quietly reflect. The peaceful atmosphere provides a striking contrast to the busy streets just outside.
Even if you’re not religious, Stone Gate offers a fascinating glimpse into Zagreb’s history and the traditions that continue to shape daily life in the city.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Take a moment to step inside the chapel. It’s one of those unexpected places that reveals a quieter, more authentic side of Zagreb.
8. Climb Lotrščak Tower and Hear the Grič Cannon
Just a short walk from Stone Gate stands Lotrščak Tower, one of Zagreb’s best viewpoints. Climbing to the top rewards you with panoramic views across the city’s red rooftops, church spires and surrounding hills.
Every day at exactly midday, the famous Grič Cannon is fired from the tower, a tradition dating back to the 19th century. The loud boom echoes across the city and remains one of Zagreb’s most distinctive daily rituals.
We loved seeing this tradition still very much alive. If your timing allows, it’s well worth arriving a few minutes before midday to experience it for yourself.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Arrive 10–15 minutes before noon to watch the Grič Cannon being fired. It’s a uniquely Zagreb tradition and one of the city’s most memorable experiences.
9. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships
Of all the museums we visited in Zagreb, this was easily one of the most memorable.
The Museum of Broken Relationships tells stories of love, heartbreak and human connection through personal objects donated by people from around the world. Each exhibit is accompanied by a personal story, making the experience surprisingly emotional, sometimes humorous and often deeply moving.
Unlike any museum we’ve visited before, it offers a fascinating insight into the universal experiences of love and loss. Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, this one is well worth making time for.
If you’re travelling with children or simply enjoy interactive attractions, the nearby Museum of Illusions is another excellent option that’s guaranteed to provide plenty of laughs.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Allow at least an hour to explore the museum. The stories are what make this place so memorable, so don’t rush through the exhibits.
10. Experience Zagreb’s Café Culture on Tkalčićeva Street
After a morning of sightseeing, we found ourselves drawn to Tkalčićeva Street, one of Zagreb’s liveliest and most atmospheric streets. Lined with cafés, wine bars, restaurants and boutique shops, it’s the perfect place to slow down and experience Zagreb’s famous café culture.
One of the things we noticed during our visit was how much locals enjoy lingering over coffee. There’s no rush here. Whether it’s a morning espresso, a leisurely lunch or an evening drink, Tkalčićeva Street is made for people-watching and embracing Zagreb’s relaxed lifestyle.
As the day turns into evening, the terraces fill with locals and visitors enjoying warm summer nights, creating one of the city’s most vibrant social hubs.
Progressive Traveller Tip: This became one of our favourite places for dinner or an afternoon coffee. Find an outdoor table, order a local wine or coffee, and simply watch Zagreb go by.
11. Stroll Through the Green Horseshoe
If you have an extra day in Zagreb, don’t miss the Green Horseshoe, a series of elegant parks and public squares that showcase another side of the city.
Designed in the 19th century, these beautifully landscaped gardens link many of Zagreb’s cultural landmarks, including the Art Pavilion, the Croatian National Theatre, museums and galleries. It’s a peaceful area filled with fountains, sculptures, flower gardens and shaded walking paths.
We found it to be the perfect escape from the busier parts of the city and an enjoyable place for a leisurely stroll.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Bring a coffee and take your time exploring the parks. The Green Horseshoe is especially beautiful in spring and autumn when the gardens are in full colour.
12. Visit Mirogoj Cemetery
Often described as one of Europe’s most beautiful cemeteries, Mirogoj is far more than a burial ground. Its grand arcades, ivy-covered walls, elegant domes and tree-lined avenues make it one of Zagreb’s most impressive architectural landmarks.
Although it’s located a little outside the city centre, Mirogoj is easily reached by tram or bus and offers a different perspective on Zagreb’s history and culture. Many of Croatia’s most influential figures are buried here, and the peaceful setting makes it a surprisingly rewarding place to visit.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Combine your visit with a leisurely tram ride through Zagreb. Even if cemeteries aren’t usually on your itinerary, Mirogoj is well worth making an exception for.
Where to Eat in Zagreb
One of the things we enjoyed most about Zagreb was its vibrant food scene. From traditional Croatian dishes to international cuisine, there was no shortage of excellent restaurants, cosy cafés and lively wine bars to discover. After spending two weeks travelling through Croatia, we decided to mix things up by trying both local favourites and something completely different.
Byblos Restoran
One of our favourite meals was at Byblos Restoran on Teslina Street. If you’re craving a break from Croatian cuisine, this Lebanese restaurant serves authentic, flavour-packed dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
We especially enjoyed the Lebanese beer, which paired perfectly with our meal. If you’re deciding what to drink, we’d happily order it again.
Restoran Boban
For a memorable Croatian meal, we highly recommend Restoran Boban on Gajeva Street. Despite its elegant atmosphere, we found the prices very reasonable and the service outstanding.
Paul’s prawn risotto with truffle was one of the standout meals of our stay, while my Casarecce pasta with crispy bacon and vegetables was equally delicious. Pair your meal with a glass of Croatian wine and you’ll quickly understand why this restaurant is so popular with both locals and visitors.
Experience Zagreb’s Café and Restaurant Scene
If you’re looking for plenty of dining options, spend some time along Tkalčićeva Street. Lined with cafés, restaurants, wine bars and outdoor terraces, it’s one of Zagreb’s liveliest streets and the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch, afternoon coffee or dinner while watching the city go by.
Local Favourites Worth Trying
If you’d like to sample more traditional Croatian flavours, these local favourites consistently receive excellent reviews:
- La Štruk – The best place to try Zagreb’s famous štrukli, a baked or boiled pastry filled with cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of the truffle or sweet variations.
- Heritage Croatian Street Food – A great introduction to modern Croatian street food, featuring regional ingredients in gourmet sandwiches and other quick meals.
- PLAC Kitchen & Grill – Known for excellent grilled meats, traditional ćevapi and creamy kajmak.
- OAZA Joyful Kitchen – One of Zagreb’s most popular vegan restaurants, serving creative and flavour-packed plant-based dishes.
Discover Zagreb’s Craft Beer and Spirits Scene
If you enjoy craft beer or premium spirits, Zagreb has a growing number of venues showcasing the country’s exciting independent producers.
SIP Pub by Zmajska Brewery is one of the city’s newest craft beer venues, serving a wide range of locally brewed beers, including seasonal releases, alongside American-style barbecue in a relaxed industrial setting.
For something a little different, visit RUKE Gastilerija, a unique venue combining a craft distillery, art gallery and social space. It’s an excellent place to sample locally distilled Croatian gin while experiencing Zagreb’s contemporary creative scene.
Whisky lovers should also keep an eye out for Nebo Croatian Single Malt Whisky, produced by the award-winning Duh u Boci Distillery. It has quickly become one of Croatia’s most talked-about premium craft spirits and can be found in selected bars around Zagreb.
Visit Dolac Market
If you’re self-catering or simply enjoy exploring local food markets, don’t miss Dolac Market. It’s the perfect place to pick up seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan cheeses, cured meats, honey and freshly baked bread while experiencing everyday life in Zagreb.
Best Coffee in Zagreb
Croatians take their coffee seriously, and Zagreb’s café culture is one of the city’s great pleasures.
One café we particularly enjoyed was Quahwa on Nikole Tesle Street, where we found excellent coffee and a relaxed atmosphere. Like many locals, take your time, savour your coffee and enjoy watching the world go by—there’s no rush in Zagreb.
Progressive Traveller Tip: Don’t limit yourself to just one part of the city. Some of our favourite meals were found by wandering beyond the main squares and exploring Zagreb’s quieter streets. Whether you’re looking for traditional Croatian cuisine, international flavours, craft beer or simply great coffee, Zagreb offers something to suit every taste and budget.
Final Thoughts
Before arriving in Zagreb, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. Like many travellers, we’d focused most of our planning on Croatia’s spectacular coastline, assuming the capital would simply be a convenient stop between destinations. We couldn’t have been more wrong.
Over two days, Zagreb surprised us with its elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture, welcoming atmosphere, vibrant food scene and thriving café culture. It felt like a city made for wandering, where some of our favourite moments came not from ticking off famous landmarks, but from discovering hidden laneways, lingering over coffee and simply experiencing everyday Croatian life.
If you’re planning your first trip to Croatia, don’t overlook Zagreb. Give yourself at least a couple of days to explore beyond the major sights, wander at your own pace and embrace the city’s café culture.
For us, Zagreb wasn’t just a stop between destinations—it became one of the highlights of our Croatian journey and a city we’d happily return to.
Continue Exploring Croatia and the Balkans
Zagreb was just the beginning of our journey through Croatia and the Balkans. Every destination offered something completely different—from breathtaking national parks and historic coastal cities to medieval islands and hidden gems that exceeded all our expectations.
If you’re planning a longer itinerary, these firsthand travel guides will help you discover more of this remarkable region.
Explore More of Croatia
- Plitvice Lakes National Park Visitor’s Guide – Everything you need to know before visiting Croatia’s spectacular waterfalls and turquoise lakes.
- Zadar Travel Guide – Discover Roman history, the Sea Organ, unforgettable sunsets and one of Croatia’s most liveable coastal cities.
- Korčula Island Guide – Explore medieval streets, local wineries, beautiful beaches and one of Croatia’s most charming Adriatic islands.
- Dubrovnik Travel Guide – Plan your visit to Croatia’s iconic walled city with practical tips, must-see attractions and local advice.
Continue Your Balkan Adventure
Croatia combines perfectly with its neighbouring Balkan countries, each offering its own unique culture, landscapes and experiences.
- Kotor & Bay of Kotor Guide – Discover one of Europe’s most spectacular bays, medieval towns and breathtaking mountain scenery in Montenegro.
- Montenegro Road Trip Guide – Plan an unforgettable journey through dramatic coastlines, national parks and charming historic villages.
- Albania Travel Guide for Australians – Explore one of Europe’s most surprising destinations, from UNESCO World Heritage towns and pristine beaches to mountain landscapes and exceptional value for money.
The Balkans quickly became one of our favourite regions in Europe. Friendly locals, incredible scenery, rich history, outstanding food and excellent value make it a destination we know we’ll return to again. We hope these guides help you plan your own unforgettable Balkan adventure.
