The Complete Guide to Zagreb
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What to see and do in Croatia’s capital city
Zagreb is sometimes treated as nothing more than the practical starting point of a Croatia trip. Most people fly in, sleep for a night, and then rush off towards the coast as quickly as possible. Which is a bit unfair, because Zagreb has a completely different kind of charm from Croatia’s seaside cities and I really think it’s a city worth seeing. I really enjoyed my time here.
While Zagreb lacks the coastal scenery that draws many visitors to Croatia, it more than makes up for it by being one of the best places in Croatia for travellers who enjoy walkable cities with plenty of history, character, and excellent food. It’s got many of the perks of being a capital city while still retaining a kind of small town charm.
Read on for my complete guide to the best things to do in Zagreb, where to eat and drink, the best day trips, how to get there, and the practical bits worth knowing before you go.
In a Rush? Check out my Quick Guide:
Where to Stay:
Hostel Mali Mrak (Hostel)
Apartment Spectre (Budget)
Hotel Capital (Mid-Range)
Art’Otel Zagreb (Luxury)
Activities to Book:
Walking Tour with WW2 Tunnels & Funicular
Communism & Croatian Homeland War Tour
Restaurants, Food & Old Town Tour
Plitvice & Rastoke Guided Day Trip
Must-See Spots:
– St. Mark’s Tiled Roof
– Zagreb Cathedral
– Museum of Broken Relationships
– Zagreb Funicular
Hire a Car here
Stay Connected with a Croatian eSim
Stay Protected with Travel Insurance
10 Best Things to See and Do in Zagreb
Zagreb offers plenty to fill your time, particularly if you enjoy exploring on foot. The city rewards curiosity, and some of its best moments come from simply wandering without a strict itinerary.
To make planning easier, I’ve divided the highlights between Zagreb’s historic Upper Town and its elegant Lower Town.
Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
The Upper Town is the oldest and most atmospheric part of Zagreb and home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks, quaint cobbled streets, and viewpoints. Being the medieval heart of the city, it’s not huge and you can see the main sights quite quickly, but I’d recommend slowing down a bit and letting yourself wander.
1. Admire St. Mark’s Church Tiled Roof
St. Mark’s Church is a must-see for anyone visiting the city, especially for its famous colourful tiled roof decorated with the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia on the left side, and the emblem of Zagreb on the right.
While the church’s origins date back to the 13th century, much of its current appearance comes from later renovations. The church was rebuilt and expanded over the centuries as the town grew in importance, but its colorful tiled roof wasn’t added until some 19th-century restoration work. It soon became one of Zagreb’s most recognizable landmarks.
St. Mark’s Square around it is also home to some of Croatia’s most important government buildings, which gives the area a slightly more formal feel than some visitors might expect.
Tip: If visiting from late April to October, do not miss the Zagreb Guard-changing ceremony presented in front of the church on weekends at noon.
2. Visit Zagreb Cathedral and Kaptol
Zagreb Cathedral is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, with its twin spires rising above the rooftops of Kaptol, making it the second tallest building in all of Croatia. The cathedral had been badly damaged by the 2020 earthquake but finally reopened its doors to the public last April after extensive renovation work, so it’s the perfect time to see it!
The Kaptol area surrounding it is also worth seeing. It’s one of the oldest parts of the city and has a completely different feel from the Lower Town. There are old defensive walls, religious buildings, and narrow streets.
3. Walk through the Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata)
The Stone Gate is one of Zagreb’s most important historic landmarks and the only surviving gate from the city’s medieval fortifications. Located between the Upper Town and Kaptol, it serves as both a passageway and a place of pilgrimage.
Inside the gate, you’ll find a small chapel containing a revered painting of the Virgin Mary. According to local tradition, the painting survived a devastating fire in 1731 that destroyed much of the gate, and it has since become a symbol of protection for the city. You’ll often see candles burning and locals stopping to pray as they pass through.
4. Browse Dolac Market
Dolac Market is one of the best places to experience everyday life in Zagreb. Sitting just above Ban Jelačić Square, it has been an open-air market for locals buying fresh produce and regional specialities since 1930.
It has been nicknamed the “belly of Zagreb”, and it’s easy to see why! Stalls selling fruit, vegetables, cheese, honey, flowers, and cured meats are spread out underneath a sea of red umbrellas. At the top of the staircase leading into the market stands the bronze Statue of the Kumica Barica, a tribute to the market women who traditionally travelled from nearby villages to sell their produce in Zagreb. I bought a lavender pouch from a similar older lady, and she stitched the dates of my Croatia trip onto it. It’s one of my favorite souvenirs.
5. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships
Among Zagreb’s more unusual attractions, the Museum of Broken Relationships stands out as one of the city’s most memorable experiences. The museum is just what it sounds like: it displays personal objects donated by people around the world, each accompanied by a story connected to a past relationship.
Some exhibits are funny, others heartbreaking, and many are unexpectedly moving. I actually found myself in tears reading some of the captions. It was one of the quirkiest museums I’ve had the pleasure of going to, and I’d definitely return next time I’m in Zagreb.
6. Listen out for the Grič Cannon
Every day at noon since 1st January 1877, the Grič Cannon fires from Lotrščak Tower, marking midday with a bang loud enough to make unsuspecting tourists (me included) jump out of their skin. It’s one of Zagreb’s best-known traditions and a fun little thing to fit into your day. If nothing else, it’s a good reminder to start looking for a lunch spot.
Lotrščak Tower itself sits above the city near Strossmayer Promenade, one of the nicest walking spots in Zagreb. Dating back to the 13th century, the tower was built to protect the southern entrance to Zagreb’s medieval Gradec settlement. Its unusual name comes from the Latin campana latrunculorum, or “thieves’ bell,” which was traditionally rung each evening before the city gates were closed.
7. Ride the Zagreb Funicular
Zagreb’s funicular connects the Lower Town with the Upper Town and is famously one of the shortest public-transport funiculars in the world (66 meters to be exact!). The journey lasts just 64 seconds, but that brief ride has become one of the city’s most iconic experiences. Dating back to the 1890s, it’s the oldest and one of the first means of public transport in Zagreb.
The funicular departs every ten minutes or so and costs less than a euro. If nothing else, it saves you a climb up the steep steps to the Upper Town.
Lower Town (Donji Grad)
The Lower Town showcases Zagreb’s Austro-Hungarian heritage, broad avenues, green spaces, and lively café culture.
8. Stroll around the Lower Town and the Green Horseshoe
The Lower Town presents a different side of Zagreb, with elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture. One of the best ways to explore it is by following Lenuci’s Green Horseshoe, a sequence of interconnected parks and squares that curves through the city centre, designed by urban planner Milan Lenuci in the late 19th century.
You’ll pass places like Zrinjevac Park (the perfect spot to sit and rest for a while), the Art Pavilion, King Tomislav Square, and the Croatian National Theatre. It’s a completely different feel from the Old Town upstairs, but I loved it just as much.
9. Wander through Mirogoj Cemetery
Mirogoj Cemetery is widely regarded as not only one of Zagreb’s most beautiful places, but one of the prettiest cemeteries in Europe, thanks to its arcades, domes, sculptures, and ivy-covered walls.
Although it lies outside the centre, the journey is worthwhile (take a car, taxi or bus 106). The atmosphere is calm and reflective, and the architecture is genuinely stunning. Though remember: it remains an active place of remembrance and should be treated with respect.
10. Escape to Maksimir Park
If you need a break from city streets, Maksimir Park is the place to go. Opened in the late 18th century, it’s one of Zagreb’s oldest and most loved green spaces, with lakes, woodland paths, pavilions, and 316 hectares of room to wander. Some even call it the Hyde Park or Central Park of Zagreb!
It’s also home to Zagreb Zoo, so it can be a good option if you’re travelling with children.
Where to Eat and Drink in Zagreb
Zagreb is an excellent city for food and drink. You can find anything from traditional Croatian dishes to modern bistros and international cuisine. My favorite part might just be the city’s thriving café culture.
La Štruk €
If you only try one very Zagreb dish, make it štrukli. These are soft parcels of dough and cheese, served either boiled or baked, and La Štruk is one of the most famous places to try them. The menu is built around štrukli, naturally. You can go savoury or sweet, though I’d personally start with the classic cheese version before getting experimental.
Heritage - Croatian Street Food €
If you’re looking for a casual way to try Croatian flavours, Heritage is a good place to start. It’s more of a small, quick-bite spot, making it ideal for lunch or a snack while sightseeing.
Think local ingredients, Croatian products, sandwiches, and platters.
Pod Zidom Bistro €€€
Pod Zidom is a more polished option near Dolac Market, with a strong focus on seasonal ingredients and modern Croatian cooking. Because of its location, it works well for dinner after a day exploring the centre. I’d book ahead if you’re visiting during a busy period, especially at weekends.
Cogito Coffee €
Zagreb takes coffee seriously, and Cogito is one of the city’s best-known specialty coffee names. The iced coffees are absolutely delicious, and super refreshing on a hot day!
Quahwa €
Another strong specialty coffee option, Quahwa is especially good if you want something more spacious and laptop-friendly. It’s a good spot for digital nomads trying to get some work done between sightseeing. Plus, you can smell the aromatic beans from the roastery.
Best Day Trips from Zagreb
Zagreb is a great base for exploring inland Croatia and even crossing into nearby Slovenia if you have the time.
Here are some of the best day trips from Zagreb.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes is one of Croatia’s most famous natural attractions, and Zagreb is one of the best cities to visit it from. The park is known for its chain of lakes, waterfalls, boardwalks, and absurdly green water that looks edited even when it isn’t.
It’s doable as a day trip by car, bus, or organised tour, though I’d recommend starting early.
Tip: Book tickets in advance in high season and check the official park website before you go. Weather, route closures, and visitor numbers can affect the experience.
Samobor
Samobor is an easy and very pleasant day trip from Zagreb. It’s a small town west of the capital, known for its pretty centre, surrounding hills, and most importantly, kremšnita, a custard cream cake that the town has built its identity around.
Spend a few hours wandering the centre, have coffee and cake, and walking up to the ruins of Samobor Castle.
Varaždin and Trakošćan Castle
For a more historical day trip, head north to Varaždin and Trakošćan Castle. Varaždin is known for its Baroque architecture, pastel streets, and elegant squares, while Trakošćan is one of Croatia’s most photogenic castles.
It’s best to go by car or organised tour (book tickets here), as combining both places by public transport can be a bit painful.
Medvednica and Sljeme
One of the coolest things about Zagreb is that it has a mountain right on its doorstep. Medvednica Nature Park rises behind the city, with Sljeme as its highest peak, and it’s a favourite escape for locals who want hiking, forest, and fresh air.
You can hike, take public transport part of the way, or use the cable car depending on your route and what’s operating when you visit. Otherwise, this hiking and chestnuts picking tour looks really interesting.
Ljubljana and Lake Bled
If you fancy adding another country to your trip, Ljubljana and Lake Bled in Slovenia can be visited from Zagreb on a long day trip. It’s a lot to fit into one day, but if you’re short on time and don’t mind an early start, it’s a popular option.
Personally, I’d recommend staying overnight in Slovenia if your itinerary allows it, but if not, the most efficient way to see it all is by guided tour.
Where to Stay in Zagreb
For a first visit, I’d recommend staying somewhere central so you can walk to most sights and avoid wasting time on transport.
Lower Town
The Lower Town is probably the best area for most visitors. It’s central, elegant, walkable, and close to parks, museums, restaurants, cafes, and transport connections. It’s especially good if you want a balance of sightseeing and convenience.
Around Ban Jelačić Square
If you want to be right in the middle of everything, stay near Ban Jelačić Square. You’ll be close to Dolac Market, the Upper Town, Tkalčićeva Street, and plenty of cafes and restaurants. It’s convenient, but can be busier.
Upper Town
The Upper Town is atmospheric and historic, but accommodation options are more limited. It’s lovely if you want charm, but keep in mind that cobbled streets and hills are less charming when you’re dragging a suitcase behind you.
How to Get to Zagreb
Zagreb is one of the easiest cities in Croatia to reach, especially if you’re flying into the country or travelling overland through Central Europe.
By plane
Zagreb Airport, officially Franjo Tuđman Airport, is located outside the city centre and is well connected by shuttle bus, public bus, taxis, and ride-share apps.
The airport shuttle runs between the airport and Zagreb Central Bus Station and usually takes around 35–40 minutes. From the bus station, you can connect to trams or take a short taxi/ride-share to your accommodation.
There is also a local public bus option, line 290, which connects the airport with Kvaternik Square and Velika Gorica. It takes a bit longer, but it can be cheaper if you’re travelling light and don’t mind navigating local transport.
If you arrive late, have lots of luggage, or simply cannot face figuring out public transport after a flight, take a taxi or organise a private transfer in advance.
By bus
Buses are often the easiest way to travel around Croatia, especially between cities. Zagreb’s main bus station is well connected and has routes to places like Split, Zadar, Rijeka, Plitvice, and international destinations too. I spent three weeks traveling around Croatia using buses and everything went as smoothly as I could’ve hoped for.
By car
Driving to Zagreb is straightforward if you’re on a road trip, and having a car makes some day trips much easier. That said, you don’t really need a car inside the city itself. Zagreb is walkable, and trams cover a lot of the areas visitors are likely to use.
If your accommodation is central, I’d only keep a car if you’re planning to use it for day trips. Otherwise, it may spend more time being annoying than useful.
By train
Zagreb has train connections with other Croatian cities and neighbouring countries, though trains in Croatia are not always the fastest option. If you’re coming from places like Ljubljana, Budapest, or Vienna, it’s worth checking train routes, but compare them with buses before committing.
FAQs About Zagreb
Below are some frequently asked questions about Zagreb. I tried to be as thorough as possible, but you can always drop me a comment or email if you have a question that wasn’t answered here, and I’ll try to get back to you as soon as possible.
Is Zagreb worth visiting?
Yes, Zagreb is definitely worth visiting, especially if you enjoy walkable cities, cafe culture, museums, parks, and historic streets. It has a completely different feel from Croatia’s coastal destinations, which is exactly why it’s worth adding to your itinerary. I really loved my time here and can’t wait to revisit.
How many days do you need in Zagreb?
I’d recommend at least two days in Zagreb. One day is enough to see the main sights quickly, but two days gives you time to explore properly, visit a few museums, enjoy the cafes, and avoid turning the whole thing into a sightseeing sprint.
If you want to do day trips to places like Plitvice Lakes, Samobor, or Medvednica, add extra days.
What is the best time to visit Zagreb?
Spring and autumn are probably the best times to visit Zagreb, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot, though still manageable, and winter can be lovely if you’re visiting for Christmas markets and cosy cafes.
Basically, Zagreb works in all seasons, but the experience changes quite a lot depending on when you go. I visited in May and couldn’t have been happier!
Is Zagreb expensive?
Compared with some Western European capitals, Zagreb can still feel fairly affordable, though prices have gone up in Croatia since the switch to the euro. Eating and drinking can be reasonable if you avoid the most touristy spots, and many of the best things to do involve walking around, parks, markets, and viewpoints.
Can you visit Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb?
Yes, Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most popular day trips from Zagreb. You can go by car, bus, or organised tour, but start early and book tickets in advance during busy periods.
Is Zagreb good for digital nomads?
Yes, Zagreb is a great place for digital nomads, as it has a thriving cafe culture and high-speed internet pretty much everywhere.
What food should I try in Zagreb?
Try štrukli, a traditional cheese-filled dish that can be baked or boiled. Also look out for Croatian cured meats, cheeses, pastries, local wines, craft beers, and creamy pastries.
Is Zagreb safe?
Zagreb is generally considered a safe city for visitors, especially in the central areas. As always, use normal city common sense: watch your belongings in busy places and be aware at night. I visited as a solo female traveler and felt perfectly safe the entire time I was there.
Do you need a car in Zagreb?
No, you don’t need a car to explore Zagreb itself. The centre is walkable, and trams and buses cover the city well. A car is useful if you want to do day trips independently, especially to places like Plitvice Lakes, Varaždin, Trakošćan Castle, or Medvednica.
Is Zagreb better than Split?
Zagreb and Split are completely different, so it depends what you’re looking for. Split has the sea, beaches, Roman history, and island access. Zagreb has museums, cafe culture, parks, markets, and a more Central European city feel.
If you have time, visit both. If you’re choosing, pick Split for coastal Croatia and Zagreb for city wandering, food, museums, and inland day trips.