Croatia’s Vibrant Capital
Zagreb, the capital and largest city of Croatia, is a blend of austere Austro-Hungarian architecture and Mediterranean spirit. With its charming medieval old town, innovative museums, and bustling cafe culture, Zagreb offers visitors a distinctly Central European experience. The city is divided into the thousand-year-old Gornji Grad (Upper Town) and the 19th-century Donji Grad (Lower Town), each with its own charm and attractions.
Essential Zagreb Information
- Language: Croatian (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Currency: Croatian Kuna (HRK)
- Timezone: Central European Time (CET) UTC+1 (UTC+2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October)
- Visas: Croatia is part of the European Union but not yet in the Schengen Area. Check visa requirements before travel.
- Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants if service charge is not included
Where to Stay in Zagreb: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
Gornji Grad (Upper Town)
The historic heart of Zagreb, Gornji Grad is home to iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Church and the Zagreb Cathedral. Its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and panoramic views make it ideal for history buffs and romantic getaways.
Donji Grad (Lower Town)
Donji Grad is the modern center of Zagreb, known for its museums, shops, and vibrant nightlife. Stay here for easy access to attractions like the Croatian National Theatre and the famous Dolac Market.
Kaptol
Home to the Zagreb Cathedral, Kaptol offers a quieter stay while still being close to major attractions. This area is perfect for those seeking a blend of history and tranquility in the heart of the city.
Jarun
Centered around Lake Jarun, this neighborhood offers a more relaxed, residential atmosphere. It’s ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous recreational facilities and a peaceful lakeside setting.
Novi Zagreb (New Zagreb)
Located south of the Sava River, Novi Zagreb is a more modern area with budget-friendly accommodations. It’s well-connected to the city center by public transport and offers a glimpse into everyday Zagreb life.
Must-See Sights in Zagreb
- Zagreb Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral and the tallest building in Croatia.
- St. Mark’s Church: Famous for its colorful tiled roof depicting the coat of arms of Zagreb.
- Dolac Market: The city’s central open-air market, perfect for experiencing local life and flavors.
- Museum of Broken Relationships: A unique museum showcasing personal objects and stories from failed relationships.
- Mirogoj Cemetery: A beautiful and serene cemetery known for its arcades, pavilions, and sculptures.
- Tkalčićeva Street: A picturesque street lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Discover Zagreb’s Hidden Gems
- Grič Tunnel: A World War II air raid shelter turned atmospheric walkway, occasionally hosting art installations.
- Zagreb 80’s Museum: A quirky museum offering a nostalgic trip through Croatian life in the 1980s.
- Strossmayer Promenade: A romantic walkway offering panoramic views of the Lower Town.
- Art Park: An open-air gallery in a once-neglected park, showcasing street art and hosting cultural events.
- Botanical Garden: A tranquil 19th-century garden featuring an array of plant species and picturesque paths.
Food Highlights: Must-Try Zagreb Dishes
- Štrukli: A traditional pastry filled with cottage cheese and sour cream, either baked or boiled.
- Zagrebački Odrezak: A veal cutlet stuffed with ham and cheese, similar to Cordon Bleu.
- Mlinci: A side dish of baked noodles, often served with roasted turkey or duck.
- Kremšnite: A creamy custard slice, perfect for dessert lovers.
- Rakija: A strong fruit brandy, available in various flavors.
7 Essential Tips for Visiting Zagreb
- Use Public Transport: Zagreb has an efficient tram and bus system. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass for unlimited travel.
- Explore the Upper Town: Take the short funicular ride for a quick and scenic journey to the historic Upper Town.
- Visit during Advent: If possible, experience Zagreb’s award-winning Christmas market and festivities in December.
- Free Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour to get oriented and learn about the city’s history and culture.
- Coffee Culture: Embrace the local tradition of coffee drinking and people-watching at one of the many outdoor cafes.
- Museum Hopping: Many museums offer free entry on the first Wednesday of each month.
- Day Trips: Consider taking a day trip to nearby attractions like Plitvice Lakes National Park or the medieval town of Samobor.
How to Get to Zagreb
By Air: Zagreb is served by Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG), located about 15 km southeast of the city center.
- Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG): The largest airport in Croatia, handling both domestic and international flights. It’s well-connected to major European cities and serves as a hub for Croatia Airlines.
The airport is connected to the city center by airport shuttle buses, public buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services.
By Rail: Zagreb has good rail connections to many European cities. The main railway station, Zagreb Glavni kolodvor, is centrally located and well-connected to the city’s public transport system.
By Bus: Zagreb’s main bus station (Autobusni Kolodvor) offers connections to other Croatian cities and many European destinations. It’s located close to the main train station.
By Car: Zagreb is well-connected to the European road network. The city is at the intersection of several major highways, making it easily accessible from neighboring countries.
