Zagreb

What are the most recommended things to do in Zagreb?

  • Explore Zagreb’s Upper Town (Gornji Grad) with its cobblestone streets and historic buildings
  • Visit St. Mark’s Church with its colorful tiled roof
  • Walk along Tkalčićeva Street for cafes, bars, and nightlife
  • Discover the Museum of Broken Relationships
  • Relax in Zrinjevac Park and enjoy its fountains and green spaces
  • Visit Dolac Market for local produce and souvenirs
  • Tour the Croatian National Theatre
  • Climb Zagreb Cathedral towers for panoramic city views
  • Explore Mirogoj Cemetery for its architecture and sculptures
  • Attend cultural events, concerts, and festivals

Introducing Zagreb

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is also the political, economic, and cultural center of Croatia. This ancient Central European city has been a center of science and culture for centuries, and is now also a center of commerce and industry. It is located in northwestern Croatia, on the west bank of the Sava River, at the foot of Medvednica Mountain, with the Sava River flowing through it.

Zagreb is a famous historic city in Central Europe. The entire city consists of three parts: the old town composed of ancient buildings such as churches and town halls; the new district composed of squares, commercial areas and opera houses; and the modern urban area developed after World War II. It has many famous attractions such as Marco Polo's former residence, Brijuni Islands National Park, Diocletian's Palace, Zagreb Cathedral, Paklenica National Park, St. Mark's Church, etc. It is an ancient city full of history and culture, and a vibrant city showing thriving vitality.

Climate and best time to travel

temperate continental climate;

Best travel time: April to September

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting


Brijuni Islands National Park

The park's archipelago, located off the western coast of Istria, consists of two large islands and twelve smaller ones. Thick forests, ancient oak trees, pine and cypress avenues, and a 1,600-year-old olive grove—all of this is part of its natural history. Brijuni National Park is known for its lush Mediterranean and marine flora, game parks, and the ruins of an ancient Roman palace and a Byzantine military camp.


Zagreb Cathedral

Construction of Zagreb Cathedral began in the 11th century. King Ladislav I of Hungary proclaimed the Catholic See of Zagreb and dedicated the cathedral to the city. It was destroyed by Tatars in the 13th century. Several restorations followed, and in the early 20th century, two new Gothic towers (104 and 105 meters high) were added, restoring the cathedral to its former glory. Today, Zagreb Cathedral has become a defining symbol of Zagreb.


Museum of Broken Relationships

Located in the Upper Town of Zagreb, Croatia, the Museum of Broken Relationships is the world's only museum dedicated to the story of a broken heart. It houses over 1,000 exhibits donated by heartbroken individuals from around the world. In 2011, it was awarded the "Most Creative Museum in Europe" award at the European Museum of the Year. In 2012, it was ranked third among Zagreb's must-see attractions.


It is recommended to play for about 4 days


Most Popular FAQs for Zagreb

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, has origins dating back to the 11th century. It combines medieval, Austro-Hungarian, and modern architecture. It serves as Croatia’s political, economic, and cultural center and is known for its museums, historic squares, and lively cultural scene.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

  • Located in northern Croatia, along the Sava River
  • Accessible via Zagreb Airport; airport shuttle buses and taxis available
  • City transport: trams, buses, and taxis
  • Many central attractions are walkable in Upper and Lower Town

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Museums: 9 AM–5 PM, some until 7 PM; often closed on Mondays
  • Parks and public squares: open all day
  • Best time: April–October for pleasant weather; December for festive markets
  • Early mornings and weekdays are less crowded

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Museum of Broken Relationships: ~50 HRK; tickets at entrance or online
  • Zagreb Cathedral: free entry; tower access ~15 HRK
  • Croatian National Theatre: ticketed performances; book online or at box office
  • Mirogoj Cemetery: free entry
  • Other museums: 30–80 HRK; tickets available online or offline

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking recommended for theatre performances and popular museum exhibitions, usually 1–2 weeks ahead; most outdoor sites require no booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days to cover main historical areas, museums, parks, and local markets.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and St. Mark’s Church
  • Lower Town (Donji Grad) and Ban Jelačić Square
  • Museum of Broken Relationships
  • Zrinjevac Park and surrounding green spaces
  • Croatian National Theatre
  • Zagreb Cathedral and cathedral towers
  • Mirogoj Cemetery
  • Dolac Market

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided walking tours, audio guides, and cultural tours are available in Croatian, English, German, and other languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • St. Mark’s Church area
  • Zagreb Cathedral towers
  • Lotrščak Tower
  • Upper Town streets and squares
  • Panoramic views from Medvednica mountain nearby

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Day 1: Upper Town, St. Mark’s Church, Lotrščak Tower, and Zagreb Cathedral. Day 2: Lower Town, Ban Jelačić Square, Dolac Market, Zrinjevac Park, Museum of Broken Relationships. Day 3: Croatian National Theatre, Mirogoj Cemetery, optional day trip to Medvednica.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

  • Evening walking tours of historic streets
  • Theatre and concert performances at Croatian National Theatre
  • Seasonal festivals and Christmas market lights
  • Nighttime cityscape photography from viewpoints

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Central areas are busy during weekends and holidays. Weekdays, early mornings, and off-season (Nov–Mar) are quieter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, cafes, restaurants, parks, benches, souvenir shops, and local markets are available throughout the city.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most museums, parks, and squares are accessible; some historic streets and churches have stairs and limited access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; small cash is recommended for markets and street vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Tkalčićeva Street: numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants
  • Dubravkin Put: traditional Croatian cuisine
  • Bistro Apetit: modern Croatian dining
  • Café de Paris: coffee and light snacks
  • La Štruk: specializes in Croatian strukli dishes

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many restaurants in Zagreb offer vegetarian, vegan, and some halal options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
  • Hotel Dubrovnik
  • Hotel Jägerhorn
  • Canopy by Hilton Zagreb
  • Palace Hotel Zagreb

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Medvednica Mountain and Sljeme peak (hiking, skiing)
  • Samobor (historic town 30 min drive)
  • Krapina Neanderthal Museum (40 min drive)
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park (2 hours by car)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

  • Local crafts, lace, and embroidery
  • Croatian wine and olive oil
  • Handmade chocolates and sweets
  • Postcards, magnets, and keychains
  • Traditional ceramics and wooden items

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Bus and train services to other Croatian cities
  • Car rentals for regional travel
  • Airport access via shuttle or taxi for flights
  • City tram and bus network for exploring nearby neighborhoods

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