Zagreb is one of the most pleasant surprises in Europe, ideal for a relaxed yet experience-filled city break.
Here you will find beautiful squares, green parks, interesting museums, and a vibrant café culture that makes you want to stay longer.
The city is essentially divided into two main areas: the Upper Town and the Lower Town.
The Upper Town is the historic part of Zagreb, with cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as St. Mark’s Church and the Stone Gate.
On the other hand, the Lower Town is more modern and organised, with wide boulevards, impressive buildings, parks, and shopping streets.
This division makes Zagreb particularly interesting, as within just a few minutes you can move from a more “traditional” atmosphere to a more cosmopolitan side of the city.
It is a destination that is perfect for walking, exploring, and spontaneous stops for coffee or food, without the pressure of large European capitals.
Transportation in Zagreb
Getting around Zagreb is very easy and comfortable thanks to its well-organised public transport network.
The city has many trams that cover almost all key areas and are the most popular means of transport, as they take you quickly and affordably across the city centre and surrounding neighbourhoods.
In addition, bus line 290 connects the airport directly with the city centre.
Tickets can be purchased from the driver with cash, from kiosks such as Tisak or INovine, as well as via the Moj ZET app on your phone.
However, Zagreb is a very walkable city, especially its historic and central areas, and it is truly worth exploring on foot in order to discover its atmosphere and sights.
Attractions in Zagreb
St. Mark’s Church
St. Mark’s Church is perhaps the most iconic landmark of the city, known for its colourful roof featuring the Croatian coat of arms. It is located in the Upper Town and is one of the most photographed spots in Zagreb.
Tunel Grič
Tunel Grič is an underground tunnel built during World War II, which today is used as a passageway as well as for exhibitions and events.
Lotrščak Tower
Lotrščak Tower is a medieval tower with a stunning view over the city. Every day at noon, a cannon is fired from there, continuing an old local tradition.
If you climb to the top, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Stone Gate
The Stone Gate is a historic passage that houses a small chapel of religious importance to locals. It is a quiet and unique spot in the city.
Tkalčićeva Street
The most famous street in Zagreb is Tkalčićeva Street, full of cafés, bars, and restaurants. It is perfect for a stroll at any time of the day.
Love Rails
Love Rails is a unique spot with old railway tracks and a beautiful view of the city. It is less known but a very atmospheric place for photos.
Zagreb Cathedral
Zagreb Cathedral is the most imposing building in the city and its symbol. Its twin towers stand out from afar, and its interior is equally impressive.
In 2020, a strong earthquake hit Zagreb and thousands of buildings were completely damaged.
Zagreb Cathedral suffered severe damage, which is why restoration works are still ongoing today (2026).
Ban Jelačić Square
Ban Jelačić Square is the main city square and a meeting point for both locals and visitors. In its centre stands the statue of Josip Jelačić.
Mercury Grounded Solar System
The Mercury Grounded Solar System is an artistic installation that depicts the solar system at scale within the city.
It is a fun activity to walk around and locate the planets.
Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord
The Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord is an elegant church in the city centre. Right in front of it you will also find the monument of Petar Preradović.
Meteorological Column
The Meteorological Column is a historic column that displays weather data and is a small but interesting landmark in the city centre.
Trg Kralja Tomislava
Trg Kralja Tomislava is a large and beautiful square with a park, ideal for a relaxed walk. It also features a statue of King Tomislav of Croatia.
Trg Marka Marulića
Trg Marka Marulića is a quiet square with greenery, where you will also find the monument of Marko Marulić.
Croatian National Theatre
The Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb is an impressive neo-baroque building and one of the city’s most important cultural landmarks. It is worth seeing even if you do not attend a performance.
Technical Museum Nikola Tesla
The Nikola Tesla Technical Museum is dedicated to the famous scientist Nikola Tesla and showcases exhibits related to science and technology.
The entrance ticket costs €7.
Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most impressive natural destinations in Europe and an ideal choice for a day trip from Zagreb.
In my opinion, it is a must-visit place if you go to Zagreb.
The park is famous for its 16 turquoise lakes, connected by waterfalls and wooden pathways, creating a truly surreal landscape.
It is no coincidence that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A visit to the park is an experience that combines relaxed hiking with constant contact with nature, as the trails literally pass over the water.
Depending on the time you have, you can choose different routes, and there are also small boats and buses that help with transport inside the park.
No matter the season, the landscape changes dramatically—from lush green in spring and summer, to golden-red in autumn, and magically frozen in winter.
You can visit on your own or book a guided tour. I personally recommend the second option, as it can be difficult to choose the right trail on your own, and a guide will definitely show you the best spots.
I did the tour with a guide and it was fantastic, as during the trip they shared very interesting information about the park and Croatia in general.
Food in Zagreb
Thai Thai Street Food
The best food I had in Zagreb was not Croatian cuisine, but Thai food.
I discovered Thai Thai Street Food while walking around, and it turned out to be the best choice. There you will find authentic, delicious Thai food, in huge portions and at very good prices.
I chose pad Thai with chicken and spring rolls with chicken and sweet and sour sauce. I highly recommend it!
Kukuriku
Kukuriku is a tiny bakery with great options for breakfast and more. I tried, among other things, the prosciutto sandwich and some of their desserts, and everything was fantastic.
Stari Fijaker
If you want to try Croatian cuisine, Stari Fijaker is a good option.
It is located in the heart of the city, near Tunel Grič, and you will find dozens of traditional dishes to try.
La Štruk
One of the most characteristic dishes of Croatian cuisine, with roots from the Zagreb region, is štrukli.
It is a type of dough (like a thin pastry) filled usually with cheese, egg, cream, or sour cream.
La Štruk is perhaps the most famous place to try this traditional comfort food.
If you want to see more from my trip to Zagreb, visit my Instagram profile.
