Overview

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a vibrant and culturally rich city nestled between the southern slopes of the Medvednica mountain and the Sava River. Known for its historic charm and lively atmosphere, Zagreb offers a perfect mix of old-world European charm and contemporary urban life. With its picturesque streets, fascinating architecture, and numerous cultural attractions, this welcoming city is a must-visit destination for all types of travelers.

Top attractions

• Zagreb Cathedral: A majestic symbol of the city, this stunning Gothic cathedral is a must-see for its architectural beauty.
• Ban Jelačić Square: The central square of Zagreb, bustling with shops, cafés, and the iconic statue of Ban Jelačić.
• Dolac Market: The city’s main market, perfect for fresh produce, local goods, and a taste of Zagreb’s culinary delights.
• Upper Town (Gornji Grad): Explore the historical heart of Zagreb, featuring landmarks like the St. Mark’s Church and Lotrščak Tower.
• Museum of Broken Relationships: An unconventional museum showcasing poignant love stories, a unique and emotional experience.
• Mirogoj Cemetery: A serene and beautiful resting place filled with impressive monuments, art, and tranquil gardens.
• Zagreb City Museum: Learn about the city’s history and culture through a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits.
• Croatian Museum of Naïve Art: Discover an impressive collection of naïve artworks by local and international artists.
• Jarun Lake: A popular recreational spot, offering water-based activities, lush parks, and lively nightlife.

Local cuisine

• Štrukli: Traditional Croatian pastry filled with cottage cheese, a beloved local specialty.
• Zagorski Štrukli: Similar to Štrukli, but with a fluffier dough and various fillings like pumpkin, apple, or spinach.
• Sir i vrhnje: Cream cheese and sour cream spread, often served with bread or as a topping for traditional dishes.
• Čevapi: Grilled minced meat sausages, typically served with flatbread and onions.
• Pag Cheese: Renowned Croatian sheep cheese with a distinct flavor, a true delicacy.
• Crni rižot: Black risotto made with squid ink, a unique and delicious dish along the Adriatic coast.
• Medovača: Sweet honey-based brandy, a popular spirit often enjoyed as an aperitif or digestive.

Festivals and events

• Advent in Zagreb: A month-long extravaganza of Christmas markets, concerts, ice skating, and festive decorations (December).
• INmusic Festival: Croatia’s biggest open-air music festival held on the picturesque Jarun Lake (June).
• Zagreb Film Festival: A celebration of independent cinema, screening a diverse selection of international films (November).
• Animafest Zagreb: A renowned animation film festival showcasing the best of contemporary animation (June).
• Zagreb Pride: Croatia’s largest LGBTQ+ event, promoting equality, diversity, and celebrating LGBTQ+ rights (June).

Practical information

• Currency: Croatian Kuna (HRK)
• Language: Croatian, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Time zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC +1
• Getting around: Trams, buses, and taxis are readily available, while walking is convenient for exploring the city center.
• Climate: Zagreb experiences a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.