12 Best Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia

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Zagreb is often overlooked by travelers rushing to Croatia's famous Adriatic coast. While the capital lacks sparkling beaches and crystal-clear waters, it more than makes up for it with youthful energy, rich culture, and vibrant city life waiting to be discovered.

Filled with museums, lush parks, lively markets, and a thriving cafe culture, Zagreb offers far more than meets the eye. The city's old-world charm, combined with a relaxed pace, makes it an excellent destination for a city break or a starting point for a Croatia road trip.

This guide to the best things to do in Zagreb, Croatia — written with insights from a local — highlights top attractions, local experiences, and hidden gems worth exploring. Continue reading to learn more!

Planning a last-minute trip to Zagreb - Centar?

Book your Zagreb - Centar accommodations and experiences early! We've pulled together top suggestions below.

🏨 Top accommodations in Zagreb - Centar

• Niva Rooms & Studio Apartment (under $50 USD a night)
• Premium Class Apartments II (under $100 USD a night)
• Apartment Garson (rated highly)

☂️ Top tours and experiences in Zagreb - Centar

• From Zagreb - Plitvice & Rastoke Guided Day Trip With Ticket (likely to sell out)
• Grand Slovenia - Ljubljana Lake Bled Postojna Cave - Day Tour (rated highly)
• Ljubljana, Postojna Cave&Predjama Castle With Tickets From Zagreb (rated highly)
• Painting Party at Art Bottega - Paint & Wine Studio in Zagreb (rated highly)
• From Zagreb - Varazdin Baroque Town & Trakoscan Castle

12 Top Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia

Inspired by Croatia

Stroll Around the Lenuci Horseshoe

Zagreb's Lenuci Horseshoe — also known as the Green Horseshoe — is a U-shaped series of connected parks and squares located in the city's Lower Town (Donji Grad). Designed in the late 19th century by Milan Lenuci, this urban green space is one of Zagreb's most beautiful and historically significant areas.

The route begins at Zrinjevac Park, a tranquil green oasis lined with fountains, chestnut trees, and ornate 19th-century buildings in Renaissance and neo-Romanesque styles. From there, the path leads past King Tomislav Square, the Botanical Gardens, and the Croatian State Archives, ending at the grand Croatian National Theater.

This scenic walk offers a peaceful way to experience the architectural charm, cultural landmarks, and lush landscapes that define Zagreb's Lower Town.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to Lenucis Horseshoe

• B&B Cool Centre Zagreb (low nightly price)
• Court Five (good value rooms)

☂️ Visit Lenucis Horseshoe with an experience

• Zagreb Highlights Bike Tour (rated five stars)
• Zagreb BIG Tour - Our Signature Walking & Panoramic Tour

Browse the Local Farmer's Market

Just steps from Ban Jelačić Square, Dolac Market is Zagreb's main open-air market and a vibrant hub of daily life. Open every day of the week, it's easily recognized by its canopy of bright red umbrellas and bustling atmosphere.

On the upper outdoor level, vendors sell seasonal fruits and vegetables, homemade cheeses, honey, dried fruits, nuts, and fresh flowers. Below, the indoor section offers a wide variety of meats, fresh fish, breads, pastries, and other local specialties.

Dolac is not only a place to shop — it's an experience. Whether sampling a local delicacy on-site or picking up ingredients for a home-cooked meal, a visit to this iconic market provides an authentic taste of Zagreb's culinary culture.

🏨 Accommodations near Market Dolac

• Guesthouse Lessi (budget option)
• Bed & Breakfast Sky City Center (good value rooms)

☂️ Visit Market Dolac with an excursion

• Croatian Cuisine Cooking Class With Dolac Market Tour (widely acclaimed)
• PRIVATE Half-Day Food Tour - The 10 Tastings of Zagreb With Locals

Pay a Visit to the Cathedral

Towering over the city skyline, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary — commonly known as the Zagreb Cathedral — is one of Croatia's most important landmarks and its tallest church.

The cathedral has undergone multiple restorations, most notably after a devastating earthquake in 1880, which led to its current Neo-Gothic appearance. Its twin spires are visible from almost every corner of the city, serving as both a religious and architectural symbol of Zagreb.

Whether admired from afar or up close, this awe-inspiring structure is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply capturing one of Zagreb's most iconic sights.

🏨 Accommodations close to the Cathedral of Zagreb

• Apartment Garson (loved by guests)
• Premium Class Apartments II (very highly rated)

☂️ Visit the Cathedral of Zagreb with an experience

• Eclectic Private Walking Tour in Zagreb (widely acclaimed)

Hunt for Unique Souvenirs at Britanac Square

Every Sunday morning, Britanski Trg (British Square) transforms into a vibrant open-air antique market, offering a glimpse into Zagreb's vintage charm. Starting around 8:00 or 9:00 AM, local vendors set up stalls beneath the city's signature red umbrellas, displaying a wide array of collectibles.

Shoppers can browse vinyl records, old cameras, paintings, fine china, books, and even antique furniture. The market draws collectors, casual browsers, and curious tourists alike, all looking for unique finds and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Surrounded by cozy cafes, Britanac is also a great place to sit back with a coffee and enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals and vendors barter and socialize.

🏨 Stay near British Square

• Deluxe Apartments Ria (top-rated)
• Niva Rooms & Studio Apartment

Gordana Sermek/Shutterstock.com

Take a Ride on the World's Shortest Funicular

Connecting Zagreb's Lower Town to the historic Upper Town, the Zagreb Funicular holds the title of one of the shortest public-transport funiculars in the world, with a track length of just 66 meters.

In operation since 1890, it is also the oldest form of public transportation in the city. Despite its brief journey — lasting about a minute — the ride offers a unique and charming way to travel between the two parts of Zagreb, especially for those looking to avoid a steep uphill walk.

With its distinctive blue cars and nostalgic appeal, the funicular is both a functional mode of transport and a memorable local experience.

🏨 Accommodations close to Uspinjača

• Seven Stories Rooms, 4th Floor, no Elevator
• Studio Apartmani L'ART

☂️ Explore Uspinjača on a tour

• The Best of Zagreb in Half-day - Private Four-h Tour (usually sold out)
• Zagreb Private Walking Tour With a Local (rated highly)

Check Out Some Museums

Zagreb claims to have more museums per capita than any other city in the world, making it a top destination for culture enthusiasts. The city features a wide range of museums, from cultural and historical institutions to interactive and unconventional ones.

Notable quirky options include the Museum of Chocolate, the Museum of Broken Relationships, and the Museum of Illusions. For a more historical or artistic museum, visit the Zagreb City Museum, Atelier Meštrović, or the Archeological Museum.

Many of these museums are located in or near the city center, making them easy to explore on foot. Whether you're interested in fine art, ancient history, or unique exhibits, Zagreb offers something for every type of traveler.

Take Part in Croatian Cafe Culture

Coffee drinking is a way of life in Croatia, far from the typical grab-and-go routine. It's a slow-paced activity centered on conversation and connection, often lasting for hours. To experience this tradition firsthand, visit Cvjetni Trg (Flower Square), preferably on a Saturday morning.

From around 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, locals dress up and gather here to sip coffee, people-watch, and socialize in a relaxed setting. Some popular cafes in Zagreb worth visiting include Botaničar, Tesla New Generation, and Cogito Coffee. Many are located within walking distance of the square and offer a mix of traditional ambiance and modern design.

🏨 Places to stay near Cvjetni trg

• Zagreb City Center Apartments LUX
• Liberty Apartments, 3rd Floor, no Elevator

Inspired by Croatia

Get Lost in the Upper Town

Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad) is an enchanting area where history, architecture, and atmosphere meet. Known for its narrow cobblestone streets and gas lamps still lit by hand each evening, the district feels like stepping back in time.

The best way to explore is on foot — wandering through winding alleys, quiet courtyards, and small squares. Highlights include:

• St. Mark's Church: Famous for its colorful tiled roof featuring the coats of arms of Zagreb and Croatia, this 13th-century church also houses works by Croatia's most renowned sculptor, Ivan Meštrović.
• Kamenita Vrata (Stone Gate): A surviving 13th-century gate from the original medieval city walls, Kamenita Vrata once served as a passage between Zagreb's Upper and Lower Towns. Today, it houses a small chapel where locals light candles and pause to pray, making it both a historical landmark and a place of quiet devotion.
• Strossmayer Promenade: Offering sweeping views of Zagreb and the Cathedral, this scenic walkway is especially lively in summer, hosting live music and art installations.

During July, the Upper Town also hosts Dvorišta ("The Courtyards"), a cultural festival where private courtyards open to the public and are transformed into vibrant spaces with themed decor, live performances, and pop-up food and drink stands.

This part of town becomes a favorite evening escape for locals in the summer as well, thanks to its cooler air, historic ambiance, and relaxed charm.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to Upper Town

• City Centre Dream Place (top-rated)
• Stay Swanky Bed & Breakfast (relaxing pool)

☂️ Experience Upper Town with a tour

• All of Zagreb Bike Tour (highly rated)

Roam Around One of the Coolest Neighborhoods

Once known for its car dealerships and auto parts shops, Martićeva Street has undergone a dramatic transformation into one of Zagreb's trendiest and most creative neighborhoods. As the old businesses closed, artists, designers, and entrepreneurs moved in, giving the area a fresh identity.

Today, Martićeva is home to architecture studios, art galleries, concept stores, and some of the city's most unique bars and cafes. Notable spots to check out include Mr. Fogg, Program Bar, and Noel Bar—all offering distinctive atmospheres and locally loved drinks.

🏨 Stay near Martićeva ulica

• The Dots Hostel (cheap option)
• Doma Zagreb (value for money)

posztos/Shutterstock.com

Eat Out on Tkalciceva Street

Tkalčićeva Street is one of Zagreb's liveliest and most popular pedestrian zones. Always buzzing with energy, it's a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy coffee, food, and a vibrant social scene.

Lined with a wide variety of cafes, bars, and international restaurants, Tkalčićeva is the heart of Zagreb's culinary diversity. Here, you can sample everything from traditional Croatian barbecue to Turkish specialties and Sri Lankan curries, all within a short stroll.

Whether you're stopping by for a relaxed daytime coffee or looking to experience Zagreb's nightlife, Tkalčićeva offers a welcoming atmosphere and something for everyone.

🏨 Places to stay close to Ulica Ivana Tkalčića

• Casablanca Boutique Bed&Breakfast
• Hostel Centar (low nightly price)

Walk Through the Gric Tunnel

The Grič Tunnel is one of Zagreb's most intriguing landmarks. Built during World War II as a bomb shelter and emergency passageway, it stretches for 350 meters beneath the city's Upper Town.

Though originally designed for wartime use, the tunnel was rediscovered and officially reopened in 2016. It is now a public pedestrian passageway connecting several parts of the city center.

Some believe the Grič Tunnel is part of a larger, still-unmapped network beneath Zagreb, though this remains speculation. Today, it serves as both a practical shortcut and a venue for exhibitions and cultural events.

During the holiday season, the tunnel becomes a seasonal attraction—decorated with lights, ornaments, and festive installations as part of Zagreb's award-winning Advent celebration.

🏨 Stay in close proximity to Tunel Grič

• Hotel Jagerhorn (value for money)
• Westin Zagreb Hotel (5-star rating)

Explore Zagreb's Green Spaces

Zagreb offers excellent outdoor escapes for those looking to spend time in nature. Just a short tram ride east of the city center, Maksimir Park is Zagreb's oldest and largest public park.

Designed in the 18th century in the style of English landscaped gardens, it features five lakes, pathways, open meadows, a charming belvedere, and the Zagreb Zoo—making it ideal for both relaxation and light activity.

For a more adventurous outing, head to Medvednica Mountain, commonly known as Sljeme. Easily accessible by public transport, the mountain is covered with over 70 marked hiking trails.

On weekends, its scenic paths attract locals seeking peace, fresh air, and panoramic views over the city. Traditional mountain lodges along the trails offer hearty local meals, making them perfect rest stops during a day of hiking.

☂️ Explore Sljeme on a tour

• Four-hour Private Zagreb & the Mountain Tour in a Yugo car (often fully booked)
• Zagreb in a day Including Cable car to Medvednica Nature Park (rated very highly)

In Summary

Still unsure whether to include Zagreb in your Croatia itinerary? This dynamic capital is far more than a stopover — it's a mini-metropolis full of character, culture, and charm.

With a thriving food scene, vibrant cafe culture, and a unique blend of old-world history and modern creativity, Zagreb deserves a spot on any traveler's list.

Looking to explore more of the country? Don't miss these top hidden gems in Croatia or plan a visit to some of the most enchanting fairytale towns in Istria.

This article was edited by Loredana Gogoescu.

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