Enjoy the city like a local
Bars
Lounging in cafés has been a long tradition in this city. The Zagreb Green Horseshoe and the main square of Ban Josip Jelačić have always been hubs of social life in Zagreb. Nowadays, this has spread across the whole city centre, around the pedestrianised zone and even further. People from all walks of life can find something of interest here. Cafés around Ban Jelačić, or simply ‘Square’ as it is often referred to, attract prominent figures. Preradović, also known as Flower Square, is loved by artists and young people, as well as an older crowd. Tkalčićeva, once the border between Gradec and Kaptol, used to be full of pubs and served as the red-light district, but nowadays it is a trendy destination for rendezvous and relaxation for the whole family.
Swanky Monkey Garden is located in the true heart of Zagreb and offers guests an all in one experience. Its industrial design creates an attractive interior and exterior, cool vibes and a great atmosphere.
35 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Swanky Monkey Garden
50 IlicaSwanky Monkey Garden is located in the true heart of Zagreb and offers guests an all in one experience. Its industrial design creates an attractive interior and exterior, cool vibes and a great atmosphere.
It was craft before there was craft. Their four brewpubs in Zagreb are favorite meeting spots for locals and tourists alike.
Medvedgead's specialty has always been lagers and IPA's. Each of their beers has a different story that takes origin from Zagreb's rich history.
Explore their witches, inventors, beatniks and queens.
73 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pivnica Medvedgrad Ilica
49 IlicaIt was craft before there was craft. Their four brewpubs in Zagreb are favorite meeting spots for locals and tourists alike.
Medvedgead's specialty has always been lagers and IPA's. Each of their beers has a different story that takes origin from Zagreb's rich history.
Explore their witches, inventors, beatniks and queens.
If you're a jazz fan, this is one of the most notable jazzy spots in Zagreb right now. This is also one of the rare bars that gives live concerts at least once a week.
37 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Bacchus
16 Trg Kralja TomislavaIf you're a jazz fan, this is one of the most notable jazzy spots in Zagreb right now. This is also one of the rare bars that gives live concerts at least once a week.
Hidden garden in the heart of Zagreb!
Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, leave the office for a break and treat yourself after work.
They offer exquisite Cogito roasters, homemade craft beers, cocktails…
They also hold beer pong evenings, live gigs and pizza beer parties!
28 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Basta
5 Varšavska ul.Hidden garden in the heart of Zagreb!
Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, leave the office for a break and treat yourself after work.
They offer exquisite Cogito roasters, homemade craft beers, cocktails…
They also hold beer pong evenings, live gigs and pizza beer parties!
Food Scene
The gastronomic selection in Zagreb comprises a rich combination of many cuisines. History and geography have had a great impact on menus here.There are many places in town where you can find specialities of inland Croatia as well as Mediterranean and international cuisine. Štrukli is one of the authentic dishes anyone in Zagreb would recommend.
We recommend you visit one of the numerous restaurants that offer regional cuisine. You should certainly try Zagreb strudel with apples, cheese or cherries, and there is also kremšnita, the most famous creamcake made in the nearby town of Samobor.
In the murmur of the sprawling terraces that extend from the Swanky Mint hostel, the Soi Fusion Bar is seated in a sort of side alley, in a quiet corner of Swanky. With several exterior tables surrounded by graffiti and old mailboxes and a small interior space with open-plan kitchen, bare minimalist tables and a counter, it is reminiscent of Japanese and Thai outlets that run markets throughout the night.
Soi Fusion’s Chef Vid Nikolić is one of the most famous chefs in Croatia and this restaurant is his first solo project. The restaurant offers a solid range of Asian dishes - from vibrant bowls of tuna poke to sizzling satay skewers, and all served with eco-friendly dishes and utensils, just like it fits the Swanky spirit.
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
SOI fusion bar
50 IlicaIn the murmur of the sprawling terraces that extend from the Swanky Mint hostel, the Soi Fusion Bar is seated in a sort of side alley, in a quiet corner of Swanky. With several exterior tables surrounded by graffiti and old mailboxes and a small interior space with open-plan kitchen, bare minimalist tables and a counter, it is reminiscent of Japanese and Thai outlets that run markets throughout the night.
Soi Fusion’s Chef Vid Nikolić is one of the most famous chefs in Croatia and this restaurant is his first solo project. The restaurant offers a solid range of Asian dishes - from vibrant bowls of tuna poke to sizzling satay skewers, and all served with eco-friendly dishes and utensils, just like it fits the Swanky spirit.
Heritage Croatian Food is a great little spot with a noble concept: preserving Croatian gastronomic heritage and encouraging small-scale local producers by offering customers the very best foods the country has to offer. It’s a hybrid between a street food style venue and a delicatessen, with products ranging from olive oil to handmade chocolates which all can be sampled and purchased. They make ideal gifts and souvenirs, and come in attractively designed packages.
26 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Heritage Croatian Food
14 Petrinjska ul.Heritage Croatian Food is a great little spot with a noble concept: preserving Croatian gastronomic heritage and encouraging small-scale local producers by offering customers the very best foods the country has to offer. It’s a hybrid between a street food style venue and a delicatessen, with products ranging from olive oil to handmade chocolates which all can be sampled and purchased. They make ideal gifts and souvenirs, and come in attractively designed packages.
Grička Vještica
6 Vranyczanyeva ul.Arts & Culture
Zagreb enjoys a rich cultural life. Around 30 theatres are active in the city, some with regular programmes, some occasional. Along with some 30 museums, a large number of galleries and many theatre, music and dance festivals all combine to make Zagreb a city of art. From classical to alternative, from amateur to professional, from private to public, these different artistic outlets reflect the high level of cultural awareness.
The Croatian National Theater in Zagreb is the oldest Croatian theater institution that officially began operating on November 24, 1860. Its foundation was one of the most important tasks of the revival cultural program.
346 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Teatro Nacional Croata en Zagreb
15 Trg Republike HrvatskeThe Croatian National Theater in Zagreb is the oldest Croatian theater institution that officially began operating on November 24, 1860. Its foundation was one of the most important tasks of the revival cultural program.
The Museum of Broken Relationships is a collection of objects and stories that marked broken but unforgettable loves. It was launched in 2006 in Zagreb. Since then, he has toured the world as a traveling exhibition.
396 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Museo de las Relaciones Rotas
2 Ćirilometodska ul.The Museum of Broken Relationships is a collection of objects and stories that marked broken but unforgettable loves. It was launched in 2006 in Zagreb. Since then, he has toured the world as a traveling exhibition.
Enter a fascinating world of illusions that will shake your confidence in your senses, but delight you in the process; a world that will completely confuse you, but also teach you a lot… Visit us and you will be amazed because nothing is as it seems, especially not in the Museum of Illusions!
239 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Muzej iluzija
72 IlicaEnter a fascinating world of illusions that will shake your confidence in your senses, but delight you in the process; a world that will completely confuse you, but also teach you a lot… Visit us and you will be amazed because nothing is as it seems, especially not in the Museum of Illusions!
Of the thousands of exhibits that the visitor can see in the permanent exhibition of the Technical Museum, it is very difficult to single out the most interesting, but let's try to single out at least some of the large number of attractive objects:
In the Energy Transformation department, the following stand out: a wine press from 1871 used on the property of the Zagreb Archdiocese in Vugrovac near Zagreb, the control panel of the Ozalj hydroelectric power plant from 1908, Girard's water turbine from 1870 (Museum yard) which powered machines in the Rijeka paper factory . The 19th-century upright steam engine from the Prezid sawmill in Gorski Kotar and the 1909 Umrath locomotive that powered the Knin electricity generator belong to the steam engine collection, and the 1911 Grazer Wagonn Fabriks stationary diesel engine from the 1911 collection to the internal combustion engine collection. .
115 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Nikola Tesla Technical Museum
18 Savska cestaOf the thousands of exhibits that the visitor can see in the permanent exhibition of the Technical Museum, it is very difficult to single out the most interesting, but let's try to single out at least some of the large number of attractive objects:
In the Energy Transformation department, the following stand out: a wine press from 1871 used on the property of the Zagreb Archdiocese in Vugrovac near Zagreb, the control panel of the Ozalj hydroelectric power plant from 1908, Girard's water turbine from 1870 (Museum yard) which powered machines in the Rijeka paper factory . The 19th-century upright steam engine from the Prezid sawmill in Gorski Kotar and the 1909 Umrath locomotive that powered the Knin electricity generator belong to the steam engine collection, and the 1911 Grazer Wagonn Fabriks stationary diesel engine from the 1911 collection to the internal combustion engine collection. .
Croatian Museum of Naïve Art is a fine art museum in Zagreb, Croatia dedicated to the work of naïve artists of the 20th century. The museum holdings consist of over 1,900 works of art - paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints, mainly by Croatians but also by other well-known international artists in the genre.
From time to time, the museum organizes topics and retrospective exhibitions by naïve artists, expert meetings and educational workshops and playrooms.[
41 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Croatian Museum of Naive Art
3 Ćirilometodska ul.Croatian Museum of Naïve Art is a fine art museum in Zagreb, Croatia dedicated to the work of naïve artists of the 20th century. The museum holdings consist of over 1,900 works of art - paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints, mainly by Croatians but also by other well-known international artists in the genre.
From time to time, the museum organizes topics and retrospective exhibitions by naïve artists, expert meetings and educational workshops and playrooms.[
The Museum of the City of Zagreb is a modernly organized heritage institution, a place of collected knowledge and a public medium, and after a hundred years it is vital, sensitive and caring, both for the past and for the present of Zagreb.
Zagreb City Museum
20 Opatička ulicaThe Museum of the City of Zagreb is a modernly organized heritage institution, a place of collected knowledge and a public medium, and after a hundred years it is vital, sensitive and caring, both for the past and for the present of Zagreb.
The Mimara Museum is an art museum. It is situated on Roosevelt Square, housing the collection by Wiltrud and Ante Topić Mimara. Its full official name is the Art Collection of Ante and Wiltrud Topić Mimara.
190 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Museo Mimara
5 Rooseveltov trgThe Mimara Museum is an art museum. It is situated on Roosevelt Square, housing the collection by Wiltrud and Ante Topić Mimara. Its full official name is the Art Collection of Ante and Wiltrud Topić Mimara.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Zagreb is a living place of creation, exhibition, interpretation and preservation of contemporary art in all its manifestations. Its aim is to encourage and nurture an understanding of contemporary art through the professional, innovative and educational use of exhibitions and collections, enabling a wide variety of groups of visitors to learn, be creative and experience uniquely.
152 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Museum of Contemporary Art
17 Avenija DubrovnikThe Museum of Contemporary Art Zagreb is a living place of creation, exhibition, interpretation and preservation of contemporary art in all its manifestations. Its aim is to encourage and nurture an understanding of contemporary art through the professional, innovative and educational use of exhibitions and collections, enabling a wide variety of groups of visitors to learn, be creative and experience uniquely.
The history of the Art Pavilion in Zagreb is in a way also the history of fine arts of the 20th century in Croatia. That is the oldest exhibition hall on the Slavic south and the only building that has been purpously built for big, representative exhibitions to be held in it. During its (around) 100-year existence, almost all remarkable exhibitions which exceeded the framework (limits) of Zagreb with their significance were held in there.
79 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pabellón de Arte
22 Trg Kralja TomislavaThe history of the Art Pavilion in Zagreb is in a way also the history of fine arts of the 20th century in Croatia. That is the oldest exhibition hall on the Slavic south and the only building that has been purpously built for big, representative exhibitions to be held in it. During its (around) 100-year existence, almost all remarkable exhibitions which exceeded the framework (limits) of Zagreb with their significance were held in there.
Sightseeing
Zagreb is very much a charming medieval city with and a popular tourist destination for its historical architecture, mediaeval monuments, buildings and interlinking cobbled streets.
The city is split into two parts. Gornji Grad (Upper Town) is the medieval core of the city and contains many historical buildings including churches and religious monuments while Donji Grad (Lower Town) contains great museums, green parks and great places to shop.
Situated just below the hillside settlements of Kaptol and Gradec, it has served as the city’s commercial heart ever since 1641, when it was designated as a place where fairs could be held. Most of the buildings around the square date from the 19th century, and display a variety of architectural styles, from Biedermaier to Art Nouveau and Post-modernism.
27 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Ban Josip Jelačić Square
Situated just below the hillside settlements of Kaptol and Gradec, it has served as the city’s commercial heart ever since 1641, when it was designated as a place where fairs could be held. Most of the buildings around the square date from the 19th century, and display a variety of architectural styles, from Biedermaier to Art Nouveau and Post-modernism.
The name of the tower is derived from the name for the bell, campana latrunculorum – thieves’ bell, which rang in the evening to signal the closing of the town gates. The way the tower looked in the Middle Ages isn’t well known to us. According to some old drawings, it seemed to have had only two floors with two windows on each floor and a four-sided roof. The entrance to the ground floor was on the north side and the outside stairs led to the first floor.
162 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Lotrščak Tower
9 Tomićeva ul.The name of the tower is derived from the name for the bell, campana latrunculorum – thieves’ bell, which rang in the evening to signal the closing of the town gates. The way the tower looked in the Middle Ages isn’t well known to us. According to some old drawings, it seemed to have had only two floors with two windows on each floor and a four-sided roof. The entrance to the ground floor was on the north side and the outside stairs led to the first floor.
Build on Romanesque foundations, finished as a three nave type church makes a unique Gothic whole. The south portal is the most eloquent sculptural achievement in this part of Europe.
250 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
St. Mark's Church
5 Trg Sv. MarkaBuild on Romanesque foundations, finished as a three nave type church makes a unique Gothic whole. The south portal is the most eloquent sculptural achievement in this part of Europe.
Zagreb Cathedral is the most stylish and most eloquent architectural realization of sacral architecture in the Neo-Gothic style southeast of the Alps.
360 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Catedral de la Asunción
31 KaptolZagreb Cathedral is the most stylish and most eloquent architectural realization of sacral architecture in the Neo-Gothic style southeast of the Alps.
The Stone Gate, the most important shrine in Zagreb, is also one of the most popular attractions of the Upper Town. The formidable gate is a must-visit for most visitors, as well as an ideal starting point for a walking tour around the old part of Zagreb.
72 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Kamenita vrata station
The Stone Gate, the most important shrine in Zagreb, is also one of the most popular attractions of the Upper Town. The formidable gate is a must-visit for most visitors, as well as an ideal starting point for a walking tour around the old part of Zagreb.
Right in the heart of Zagreb, roam through this colorful farmer's market, just up a set of stairs from Ban Jelacic Square, is a feast for the senses. Dolac is often referred to as "the belly of Zagreb" by locals. Under the iconic red umbrellas are stalls with fresh fruits and vegetables. The vendors are very warm, always wanting to try the fruits. I love the sweet Mandarin Oranges and pomegranates. Head downstairs to the covered market where you'll find butcher stalls, cheeses and dried fruits.
160 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Dolac Market
9 DolacRight in the heart of Zagreb, roam through this colorful farmer's market, just up a set of stairs from Ban Jelacic Square, is a feast for the senses. Dolac is often referred to as "the belly of Zagreb" by locals. Under the iconic red umbrellas are stalls with fresh fruits and vegetables. The vendors are very warm, always wanting to try the fruits. I love the sweet Mandarin Oranges and pomegranates. Head downstairs to the covered market where you'll find butcher stalls, cheeses and dried fruits.
Strossmayer promenade is the best place for panoramic views of Zagreb. One of the most romantic promenades in Zagreb, also known as Zagreb Stross.
7 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Paseo Strossmayer
16-99 Strossmayerovo šetališteStrossmayer promenade is the best place for panoramic views of Zagreb. One of the most romantic promenades in Zagreb, also known as Zagreb Stross.
Compared to other public-transport funiculars, this one is the world’s shortest, with the track length of 66 meters. Since it has kept its original appearance and construction, as well as most of its original technical properties, the Zagreb Funicular is protected as a monument of culture.
47 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Funicular
7A Tomićeva ul.Compared to other public-transport funiculars, this one is the world’s shortest, with the track length of 66 meters. Since it has kept its original appearance and construction, as well as most of its original technical properties, the Zagreb Funicular is protected as a monument of culture.
Zagreb is blessed with a location right next to Sljeme, an easy getaway that offers hiking trails and ski slopes of international quality. The upgrading of Sljeme is a recent phenomenon, much of it based on the global success of local skiing star Janica Kostelić and her sporting family. With her help and influence, Sljeme is now a regular fixture on the World Cup skiing circuit.
The citizens of Zagreb love Sljeme all year round. In winter they can use the snowboarding and ski training facilities, or take advantage of the twice-weekly night skiing programme. There are ski runs for three levels and even sledging in nearby Činovnička meadow. Some prefer to come in summer, when they can find shelter from the heat, and come to Sljeme for walk and a picnic. Many love Sljeme in autumn, which brings out its carpet of colours; or spring, when the lower and surrounding slopes, named Medvednica, display many of the extensive (and occasionally rare) flora in full bloom.
113 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Medvednica
Zagreb is blessed with a location right next to Sljeme, an easy getaway that offers hiking trails and ski slopes of international quality. The upgrading of Sljeme is a recent phenomenon, much of it based on the global success of local skiing star Janica Kostelić and her sporting family. With her help and influence, Sljeme is now a regular fixture on the World Cup skiing circuit.
The citizens of Zagreb love Sljeme all year round. In winter they can use the snowboarding and ski training facilities, or take advantage of the twice-weekly night skiing programme. There are ski runs for three levels and even sledging in nearby Činovnička meadow. Some prefer to come in summer, when they can find shelter from the heat, and come to Sljeme for walk and a picnic. Many love Sljeme in autumn, which brings out its carpet of colours; or spring, when the lower and surrounding slopes, named Medvednica, display many of the extensive (and occasionally rare) flora in full bloom.
Parks & Lakes
You can find spaces for recreation almost anywhere around Zagreb. Also within easy reach we find Medvednica, a popular destination for outings. Right in the city centre, parks, streets and squares intersect with green spaces and gardens.
Every spring since the late 19th century the gardens have opened their gates to the public. Pride of the gardens is the collection of 5,000 or more plant species, ranging from exotic imports to indigenous Croatian plants.
122 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Jardín Botánico
9A Trg Marka MarulićaEvery spring since the late 19th century the gardens have opened their gates to the public. Pride of the gardens is the collection of 5,000 or more plant species, ranging from exotic imports to indigenous Croatian plants.
You can almost hear the swish of a gentleman’s tailcoat or the rustle of a lady’s crinoline dress. Even though all is quiet, it seems like these sounds are all around you. You’re in the imaginary world of art and artists. You can feel yourself interacting – don’t you wish you could trade places , even if it’s just for a tiny moment?
290 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Zrinjevac
7 ZrinjevacYou can almost hear the swish of a gentleman’s tailcoat or the rustle of a lady’s crinoline dress. Even though all is quiet, it seems like these sounds are all around you. You’re in the imaginary world of art and artists. You can feel yourself interacting – don’t you wish you could trade places , even if it’s just for a tiny moment?
Maksimir park is protected as a monument of landscape architecture and cultural and historical monument and a symbol of the City of Zagreb, its value as a monument of landscape architecture and protected cultural property is exceptional and worthy of attention. Maksimir Park is to Zagreb as the Bois de Boulogne to Paris, Tiergarten to Berlin or Regents Park to London.
396 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Maksimir
1 Maksimirski perivojMaksimir park is protected as a monument of landscape architecture and cultural and historical monument and a symbol of the City of Zagreb, its value as a monument of landscape architecture and protected cultural property is exceptional and worthy of attention. Maksimir Park is to Zagreb as the Bois de Boulogne to Paris, Tiergarten to Berlin or Regents Park to London.
A monument dedicated to Tomislav, Croatia’s first king, dominates the square carrying his name.
18 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
King Tomislav Statue
10 Trg Kralja TomislavaA monument dedicated to Tomislav, Croatia’s first king, dominates the square carrying his name.
On weekends and even on workdays, after the office, school or college, Jarun is the place to go for rest and recreation. It was built and opened in 1987, when Zagreb hosted the World Student Games. Walking paths, lakes with boating facilities, numerous restaurants and beach cafés, are comprise the many attractions which bring people to the Jarun Centre for all kinds of reasons. Among the lush greenery, close to the clear water of the lakes and beaches which fill on hot summer days, there are also cycling paths, jogging tracks, a mini-golf course. The lake itself contains one of the best rowing lanes in Europe and has been used for international competitions.
299 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Jarun
JarunOn weekends and even on workdays, after the office, school or college, Jarun is the place to go for rest and recreation. It was built and opened in 1987, when Zagreb hosted the World Student Games. Walking paths, lakes with boating facilities, numerous restaurants and beach cafés, are comprise the many attractions which bring people to the Jarun Centre for all kinds of reasons. Among the lush greenery, close to the clear water of the lakes and beaches which fill on hot summer days, there are also cycling paths, jogging tracks, a mini-golf course. The lake itself contains one of the best rowing lanes in Europe and has been used for international competitions.
The Pathway goes around the main lake and is 700 meters long. It is open all year round to everyone, and can be used for walking, Nordic walking, and running.
223 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Bundek
The Pathway goes around the main lake and is 700 meters long. It is open all year round to everyone, and can be used for walking, Nordic walking, and running.
Consejos para la ciudad
Facilidad para moverse por la casa
Walking
With beautiful Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Neo-Baroque architecture at every turn, stunning street-art murals and myriad alleys, avenues, squares and boulevards to explore, Zagreb is a city that was made for walking. A range of tours are available, from historical jaunts and foodie trips to pub crawls and spooky night walks. Alternatively, go at your own pace and coffee shop-hop down the cobbled streets.
Pro tip: Much of Zagreb’s hillside Upper Town is inaccessible to cars, and many of the city’s main squares, as well as the central area of Lower Town, are pedestrian-only.
Facilidad para moverse por la casa
Bike
With a relatively flat terrain (in the Lower Town) and the construction of a network of bike lanes, Zagreb has become increasingly pleasurable to explore by bike.
Facilidad para moverse por la casa
To and from the airport
Zagreb’s Airport is located a mere 15km (9.3mi) from the city centre and is accessible by multiple forms of transport. One of the easiest and most popular options is to take the Croatia Airlines bus, which departs the airport terminal every half hour (from 6am to 10.30pm at the airport and 4.30am to 9.30pm at the bus station). The journey takes 35-40 minutes and drops you at the main bus station in the centre of town. Tickets cost 30KN (£3.60) and can be bought from the driver or online.
Facilidad para moverse por la casa
Car
With wide roads and an almost grid-like system of streets, Zagreb’s city centre is easy to navigate by car. But, because of the city’s compact size and limited (although cheap) central parking options, hiring a car is more valuable if you’re planning to road-trip the wider Zagreb region.
Pro tip: Download the Croatia Traffic Info app for updates on traffic, travel conditions and roadside assistance services, available in English, German, Italian and Croatian.
Facilidad para moverse por la casa
Trams
There are 19 routes that intersect the city, with 15 daily lines and four night services running from midnight to 4am. Tickets can be purchased at newspaper kiosks for 4 HRK.
Validate your ticket by getting it time-stamped at the yellow box on board the tram. Once validated, you can use your ticket as many times as you like in one direction for up to 30 minutes. Day ticket cost 30KN (£3.60) and are valid until 4am the following day.
Pro tip: There are route maps at most stations. Printed timetables aren’t always very reliable; where available, check electronic screens for live tram times.
Facilidad para moverse por la casa
Bus
The bus network in Zagreb has been running for the better part of 90 years and provides extensive connections between the city centre and the suburbs. There are 147 lines in total, consisting of 143 day and four night services. Routes and timetables can be found at zet.hr. The ticketing system for buses operates much in the same way as the trams.
Pro tip: There are also seasonally available hop-on sightseeing buses that cover the city’s main landmarks.
Facilidad para moverse por la casa
Taxi
Ekotaxi is popular choice, while Taxi Cammeo is the cheapest for short trips.
Pro tip: One of the cheapest taxi options is Uber, which has been available in the city since 2015.
No te pierdas
Take the shortest train journey in the world
What is it?
A fun way to access Gradec, the Upper Town, is by the funicular from Ilica (the main commercial street running west from the main Ban Jelačić square).
Why go?
The short ride takes you to the Lotrščak Tower a look-out tower built in the 13th century.
Don't miss:
The view over downtown's rooftops as you ascend very quickly to Gradec.
No te pierdas
Take a tour of Mirogoj
What is it?
Mirogoj is Zagreb’s equivalent of London's Highgate cemetery and encapsulates the city’s rich patchwork of history.
Why go?
A 15-minute journey from the centre (take the bus from Kaptol, at the end of Tkalčićeva), Mirogoj is also an architectural gem. Behind a series of green, onion-shaped cupolas, which cap ivy-covered brick walls, are tiled arcades, monuments to Croatia’s most prominent citizens.
Don't miss:
The best time to visit is on All Souls’ Day, November 1, when everything is shrouded in a halo of candlelight.
No te pierdas
Inspire yourself at the city's lagest daily market
What is it?
The city centre's daily market, Dolac, is just one set of stairs up from Zagreb's main square. It has been trading since 1926.
Why go?
Farmers from surrounding villages come to sell their home-made foodstuffs and some of the freshest fruit and vegetables you’ll ever smell or taste.
Don't miss:
In the covered market downstairs are butchers, fishmongers and old ladies selling the local specialty "sir i vrhnje" (cheese and cream). Flowers and lace are also widely available.
No te pierdas
Admire great art at the MSU
What is it?
MSU is the most significant museum to open in Zagreb for more than a century. Its collection includes pieces from the 1920s and gathered since 1954.
Why go?
Croatia's outstanding 1950s generation of abstract-geometric artists play a starring role in the collection.
Don't miss:
Of particular note are Carsten Höller's slides, similar to the 'Test Site' installation he built for Tate Modern's Turbine Hall but custom-made and site-specific for Zagreb – pieces of art patrons can ride to the parking lot.
No te pierdas
Marvel at the Cathedral
What is it?
If Zagreb has an iconic architectural feature, it’s the twin towers of its Cathedral, created by Hermann Bollé.
Why go?
The Cathedral is Zagreb’s most visible tourist attraction. The neo-Gothic twin towers can be seen across the city and are as close as Zagreb gets to a visual identity worthy of calling-card status.
Don't miss :
The statue of Christ by the Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović.
No te pierdas
Browse Britanski Trg
What is it?
On Sundays, the fruit and veg stalls that fill the city centre's Britanski trg during the week are cleared away, and an attractive bric-a-brac and antique market is laid out.
Why go?
In total, some 100 stallholders trade goods from first thing in the morning. Paintings, jewellery, old currency, badges, glass bottles, posters, crockery, silver, old farming tools.
Don't miss:
Look out for Yugoslavian film posters and original screenprints by Croatian graphic artists like Boris Bućan.
No te pierdas
Go green at the Botanical Gardens
What is it?
The Botanical Gardens form the east-west anchor of the ‘Green Horseshoe’, a U-shaped band of greenery laid out by Milan Lenuci in the 19th century. About 10,000 plant species come mainly from Croatia, some from as far as Asia.
Why go?
Near but removed from the bustle of the train station, it offers a wonderfully relaxing way to escape with your travelling companion amid the plots, plants, footbridges, lakes and ponds.
Don't miss:
The English-style arboretum, and containing rock gardens, lily-pad-covered ponds, symmetrical French-inspired flowerbeds and ten glasshouses.
No te pierdas
Go underground at Grič
What is it?
The 350-metre-long Grič tunnel has previously served the city in extremely different ways. Created as an air-raid shelter during World War II, it lay empty for decades until the earliest days of techno when it hosted the seminal Under City raves.
Why go?
Accessed from Mesnička or Radićeva, the Grič tunnel has already put on fashion shows and exhibitions. For the time being, it provides an atmospheric but well lit five-minute walk far below the most historic part of Zagreb.
Don't miss:
The tunnel forms a part of the city's Advent Festival.
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Trace Zagreb's history
What is it?
Zagreb City Museum is the former 17th-century Convent of the Clares. Situated in the Upper Town, it has a permanent collection of 4,500 objects illustrating Zagreb’s history from prehistoric times, laid out in themed sections.
Why go?
Perhaps the biggest attractions at the Zagreb City Museum are the old packaging, automatic music machines and propaganda posters from the last century, offering a real feel for what life might have been like here in 1955.
Don't miss:
The sundial in the courtyard is the city’s oldest and is still showing the right time.
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Rumble & slalom at Sljeme
What is it?
The highest peak of Medvednica Nature Park near Zagreb, Sljeme is also the name used to define a series of accessible slopes that welcome hikers and ramblers all year round.
Why go?
It provides training slopes for amateurs, night skiing, sledging and snowboarding for enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
Don't miss:
Wooden taverns at the peak of the summit provide nourishing Central European fares such as veal, bean stew and sarma.
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Visit a break-up museum
What is it?
Housed in one of the Upper Town's finest Baroque mansions, the thematic display here takes visitors through a series of different emotions associated with a relationship break-up, illustrated by objects donated by members of the public
Why go?
By collecting mementoes that sum up the experience of a break-up, the museum has assembled a poignant, sometimes funny and always unique insight into the mysteries of the human heart.
Don't miss:
The adjoining restaurant, Brokenships, offers adventurous takes on traditional Croatian cuisine.
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Štrukli
What is it?
This distant relation of Austrian strudel and Turkish borek is made from rolled dough, delicious when filled with cheese, fruit and more. Whether boiled or baked, sweet or salty, or with added poppy, pumpkin or spinach, all versions usually deserve attention.
Why go?
Its recipe has not changed much in the 100 years they've been preparing it.
Don’t miss:
The more contemporary La Štruk also specialises in this local pastry, providing more unusual choices such as cheese-and-nettle and cheese-and-paprika varieties.
Costumbres y cultura
Tipping
Tips will be appreciated however if given. If you eat in a nice restaurant, then consider a 10% tip for your waiting staff or bar tenders.
Formas de ahorrar
When paying with a credit card
When you pay with a credit card in Croatia, at many places the cashiers will ask you if you prefer to be charged in your country's currency or local currency. This is a tricky one, as it is counterintuitive to choose the local currency. But you better do if you want to save money! The banks use something they call Dynamic currency exchange, and it is just a fancy name to take you a few extra euros from your account.
Frases útiles
Useful Phrases
Hello / Hi = Dobar dan / Bok
Yes / no = da / ne
How are you? = Kako ste?
Please / Thank you = Molim / hvala
Sorry = Oprostite
Help! = Upomoć!
I’m allergic to= Alergičan sam na
Goodbye / bye = Doviđenja / bok
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Admire St Mark's Church
What is it?
Two coats of arms grace the red-white-and-blue chequered roof of this emblematic Upper Town church: Zagreb's and Croatia's.
Why go?
Since the 1200s, when the Romanesque original was built, the church has gone through many architectural styles – note the Gothic south portal and Baroque, copper-covered belltower. The square outside, housing the Ban's Palace and the Croatian Parliament, has been the hub of political activity since the 1500s.
Don't miss:
Inside are hand-painted walls and a crucifix made respectively by famous artists Jozo Kljaković and Ivan Meštrović.
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Get involved in špica
What is it?
The local custom of špica is the Saturday-morning habit of having coffee in Zagreb’s city centre. It takes place where Gajeva meets Bogovićeva and Preradovićeva, by the flower market on Cvjetni trg between 11 am and 2 pm.
Why go?
Though nominally about drinking kava and enjoying a morning off from work, this ritual is more about looking sharp, of seeing and being seen. It’s an impromptu stage for fashionistas, wannabe glamourises, local paparazzi and hush-toned trend mongers.
Don't miss:
To mingle, grab a seat at the Charlie café or a stand-up table at Crêpes de Paris.
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See a century of Naive Art
What is it?
Formerly housed on the second floor of the 18th-century Raffay Palace, Zagreb's collection is a solid introduction to Croatian Naive Art.
Why go?
This is the oldest collection of Naive Art in the world. Fantastically bizarre rural scenes that verge on the psychedelic, the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art's collection is unlike anything else.
Don't miss:
The collection is frequently rotated but there are usually plenty of representations of rural life executed by the big names of the genre: Ivan Generalić, Mirko Virius and Ivan Rabuzin.
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Relax at Maksimir Park
What is it?
Maksimir Park comprises an attractive 18 hectares of welcome greenery, opened to an appreciative public in 1794. Its woods, meadows and lakes were landscaped in what was then considered the English style.
Why go?
Today, rolling hills cradle footpaths and cafés, providing ample room for jogging, romancing and relaxation. At one end you’ll find the city's zoo, with daily feeding times posted up for the seals, sea lions and otters so that you can time a family visit.
Don't miss:
A cluster of great restaurants have settled around Maksimir, including Pizzeria Duksa and AbOvo Bistro.
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Drink your way down Tkalčićeva
What is it?
The fairytale street of Tkalčićeva, which snakes up from the city's central, main square - Jelačić trg has a colourful past as the flashpoint of historic local disputes.
Why go?
For two decades, this atmospheric thoroughfare has provided Zagreb with its prime bar crawl, a constant current of revellers moving from spot to spot.
Don’t miss:
Venues move in and out of fashion, but you're pretty much guaranteed a good time at the Medvedgrad, one of Zagreb's oldest breweries, spreads across several venues offering independently produced beer and pub grub.
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Hang out at the Art Park
What is it?
Boundary-breaking art collective Pimp my Pump team up with street art studio Lapo Lapo each summer to turn a city centre park into a vibrant open-air gallery, event and hang-out space. A diverse menu of activities, workshops and open-air exhibitions take place here.
Why go?
You can peruse the make-shift sculptures, watch artists at work, or even get involved yourself. Entrance to this creative oasis and all events, talks and workshops are totally free.
Don't miss:
Keep an eye on their Facebook page for special one-off events.
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Admire Meštrović's work and mansions
What is it?
Croatia's most internationally renowned sculptor, Ivan Meštrović, lived and worked in this restored trio of adjoining 17th-century mansions in Gornji Grad between the years 1923 and 1942.
Why go?
The collection here is spectacular, representing major works from the artist's prolific first four decades. As well as marble, there are stone, wood and bronze sculptures. There are also reliefs, drawings and graphics gracing the two floors of the house, the front atrium and his atelier, just off the ivy-covered courtyard.
Don't miss:
The "Woman by the Sea" sculpture.
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Play mind games at the Museum of Illusions
What is it?
A museum with mirror mazes, gravity-defying rooms, bottomless pits, holograms and mirages.
Why go?
It's an incredibly fun way to spend an afternoon. The interactive exhibits provide explanations in English so you can understand the science behind mind-trickery.
Don't miss:
The museum gift shop is full of puzzles, baffling accessories and science books.
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See world-class ballet and music at Lisinski
What is it? Opened in 1973, this 2,000-seater theatre is the main classical music venue in town and also hosts visiting international ballet companies.
Why go?
World-class opera, ballet, classical music, pop, folk and theatre are staged here.
Don't miss:
Unlike some major concert halls in European cities, events are reasonably priced - meaning you can see world-class ballet without applying for a bank loan. Be warned - Croatians take the tradition of dressing up for classical events seriously.
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See the midday cannon fire from Lotrščak
What is it?
Lotrščak is a look-out tower built in the 13th century, reached by climbing a winding wooden staircase (the entrance to this route is on Radićeva) or by walking up from Mesnička.
Why go?
Every day since 1877, a couple of loud cannon blasts sound out at midday.
Don't miss:
Leafy Strossmayer runs by the tower and gives a lovely view of the city and its centre's rooftops.
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Marvel at the mosque
What is it?
Known locally as Džamija (mosque), visit for the building alone, a circular pavilion standing in the middle of an island in Victims of Fascism Square
Why go?
The building was designed by sculptor Ivan Meštrović just before World War II as an exhibition space in honour of the then Yugoslav King Peter I.
Don't miss:
Inside, the circular walls contain three galleries that span two floors. They provide an outstanding venue for a dynamic program of contemporary art exhibitions and events organized by the Croatian Association of Artists (HDLU).
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Get into the spirit of Christmas at Advent
What is it?
Zagreb's annual celebration of all things yuletide won the award for best Christmas market in Europe several years running. The whole thing kicks off in the last week of November and carries on right into the early New Year.
Why go?
The music programme features a month of outdoor gigs and DJ high-jinks. The city-wide lighting display is stunning.
Don't miss:
The walk from Zagreb's main train station, through three parks, to the main square is always special but, at Christmas, is an unforgettable experience.
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Discover Lake Jarun
What is it?
Jarun is Zagreb’s great green getaway for recreation, a man-made lake centrepieced by a string of verdant islands, ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities and also the setting for June’s INmusic festival.
Why go?
Jarun is a popular public park, a place for picnics and pedal boats, roller-blading and jogging.
Don't miss:
INmusic, June’s high-profile, the three-day music festival is the best of both worlds, an event that’s urban – 15 minutes by tram from the centre of the capital – yet with a rural feel.
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Admire the views from 360
What is it?
Get to grips with the layout of central Zagreb by visiting the panoramic terrace bar on top of the 16-storey Neboder (Skyscraper), an icon of Communist-era modernism that has dominated the main square since 1959.
Why go?
The Zagreb Eye offers a spectacular view of downtown Zagreb and is one of the most beautiful ways to see the city 360°.
Don't miss:
It's also a great place for a relaxing drink, day or night.
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Have a night at the opera
What is it?
This neo-Baroque landmark, opened by Habsburg Emperor Franz Josef in 1895, played a vital role in the establishment of Croatian national identity.
Why go?
What you find today is a sumptuous interior – a suitably ornate backdrop for local-language theatre, international ballet and opera.
Don't miss:
Tchaikovsky's 'Nutcracker' has become something of an institution. The sell-out production takes place throughout November and December.
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Tour Zagreb's street art scene
What is it?
Bright and beautiful murals that add flourishes of colour to the city.
Why go?
Local street artists like Slaven Lunar Kosanović, OKO and Lonac have developed distinctive styles, and the popularity of their work has justly exploded onto the international stage.
Don't miss:
Although it's in crumbling disrepair, the wall that runs along Branimirova is a good place to start. Etien's whale in the Upper Town is a symbolic piece.
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See live demonstrations on Tesla inventions
What is it?
The Nikola Tesla Technical Museum holds a collection featuring aircraft, vintage cars, an 80-year-old snowmobile, a World War II mini-submarine, 19th-century fire engines, a Dubrovnik tram from 1912 and a small planetarium.
Why go?
This impressive collection of historic vehicles and interactive exhibits provides an excellent and unstuffy excuse to visit the just-out-of-town museum.
Don't miss:
Daily demonstrations in the laboratory involve a short lecture during which some of his inventions are put through their paces.
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Order swanky cocktails
What is it? Swanky Monkey Garden is an expansive outdoor bar with a buzzing vibe. If you like cocktails, it's a good place to drink them casually without breaking the bank.
Why go? The team behind this place are big music enthusiasts and are attached to several major events in the city's calendar.
Don't miss:
You might be staying at the adjoining hostel with friends, but don't limit your experience to hanging only with people you already know. This is a brilliant place to meet locals and fellow travellers.
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Rave in a drugs factory
What is it?
Medika is a shrine to all things alternative. It grew out of Zagreb’s anarchist movement and is still run as a non-profit-making collective. A courtyard decorated by some of Zagreb’s best street artists has a café-bar and, at night, two concert venue-cum-club spaces.
Why go?
Events range from anarcho-punk gigs and extreme metal to dub reggae DJs, live hip hop and cutting-edge dance music, with all kinds of other styles thrown in for good measure.
Don't miss:
Follow the Facebook page for special events and exhibitions.