Looking for the best things to do in Zagreb? I’ve got you covered!
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, captivates visitors with stunning architecture, top-notch museums, and diverse must-see spots, both conventional and alternative. It stands as a prime destination for immersing yourself in Croatia’s rich history.
The best thing about Zagreb is that it’s an extremely affordable city to spend a long-day trip. Compared to the coastal cities of Croatia, Zagreb has plenty of great food spots, well-received accommodations, as well as free tours that allure globetrotters to celebrate the great outdoors without breaking the bank.
Though public transport serves as the bloodline that connects most attractions in town, walking is another handy way to make the most of your time in this walkable capital city.
Check out this ultimate travel guide to Zagreb for a heads-up. You’ll collect some handy tips on how to map out a perfect itinerary.
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Getting Around Zagreb
Trams and buses are the best public transport to fetch you around Zagreb, connecting major hoods of the city such as the residential areas, commercial hubs, as well as the airport.
Consider obtaining a store-valued card that covers all public transport. This handy card is very easy to use and versatile across all zones and lines. Plus, it’s also shareable.
Simply tap the card on the registration machine upon boarding. A charge of HRK 10.02 grants 90 minutes of travel in the first zone. The card covers trams, buses, or the funicular in any direction.
Upper Town Vs Lower Town
Zagreb is split into two areas: Upper and Lower Town.
The Upper Town is called Gornji Grad, dubbed as the oldest part of the area. It’s perched above the hill north of the city center, and garners most of the heritage buildings and attractions such as the Statue Of Trg Kralja Tomislava, churches, and the Croatian Parliament.
Meanwhile, the Lower Town goes by the name Donji Grad, sitting south of the city center. Here you’ll find Trg bana Jelačića, the central square, housing some of the most celebrated events in the capital city.
10 Best Things To Do In Zagreb In A Day
Check Out The Statue Of Trg Kralja Tomislav
Trg Kralja Tomislava is a public square featuring a monument of King Tomislav, the first Croatian King and Slavic Prince.
The monument sits on the southern edge of the park whereas a large fountain stands tall in the middle. There are plenty of beaches to rest your legs amidst beautiful surroundings. When spring is around the corner, the park becomes a magnetic field for families with kids to celebrate the colorful blossoms.
At certain times of the year, Trg Kralja Tomislava also hosts various concerts and ice rinks in winter.
Marvel At The Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
About 15 minutes walking north of Trg Kralja Tomislava, the Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is an outstanding sculpture well worth a visit. Featuring a Croatian national hero on a horse, the monument faces a large, bustling square starring Market Dolac in the middle.
The shops nearby offer a variety of options, ranging from shopping for cosmetics to grabbing a coffee or a meal at one of the scenic restaurants. Plus, there’s a quality shopping mall in the vicinity.
Roam Market Dolac
This is hands down one of my favorite places to visit in Zagreb. Imagine a fresh breeze jazzing up your wander amid dozens of ancient churches and museums. Market Dolac is a huge assortment of senses and sounds, dubbed the largest farmers’ market in all of Croatia.
The market is split into two sections. The upper part houses veggies and fruits in an open-space concept. On the east wing of the floor, you’ll find fish vendors and neighboring clothing and souvenir shops.
Walk downstairs to discover a range of refrigerated items like meats, cheeses, and other perishables. You can also explore and request custom-sized portions to sample.
Visit The Cathedral Of Zagreb
Facing the Monument of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary to the west, the Cathedral Of Zagreb originates in the 13th century after King Ladislaus I of Hungary passed away, who moved the bishop’s seat from Sisak to Zagreb.
Shortly after, the Mongols swept through Croatia and destroyed the church in 1217. However, history soon took a new leap of faith when the church underwent a renovation under the surveillance of Bishop Timothy.
The fortification walls you see today only existed after the Ottoman Empire’s invasion in the late 15th century. Two centuries passed by, and a fortified Renaissance watchtower was constructed on the southern side. It functioned as a military observation point, responding to the Ottoman threat.
Take a Glimpse Into The Statue of Saint George
Though not downright gigantic, the Statue of Saint George emerges as a pleasant surprise as you roam through the street of Kamenita.
The sculpture sits at the prow between the streets of Pavla Radića and Kamenita, filled with eateries and stores.
Here, St. George sits on a horse, wielding a sword while standing over a defeated dragon.
Hide Out At The Stone Gate
The quiet corner becomes a popular religious destination for prayers to light up candles and pay tribute to the Virgin Mary. This tiny stone gate has been around since the medieval era, featuring a small chapel, a candle-lighting altar, and a shrine.
It sits atop a hill, as you walk along the main road it eventually leads you to the small chapel.
Be Inspired At The Croatian Museum of Naïve Arts
This is not your average art museum. If you’re looking for some fresh perspectives away from those common contemporary pieces, this is the place to be!
The Croatian Museum of Naïve Arts sits south of St. Mark’s Basilica, housing impressive folk art by renowned artists such as Ivan Generalić, Franjo Mraz, and Marko Virius.
These artists aimed to challenge the notion that talent is confined to specific social classes or privileges. They pioneered naïve art, emphasizing paintings from rural villages instead of urban settings.
Soothe Your Soul At The Museum of Broken Relationships
Other than the Croatian Museum of Naïve Arts, this little gallery will surely move you to tears.
Get ready to skip a heartbeat before stepping into this deeply moving museum showcasing over 1000 exhibits from around the world. Each story depicts a once-beautiful relationship that has ended.
At the end of the day, it feels as if you’ve driven a roller coaster from anger to laughter, this is a rare find that offers unexpected emotional depth that’s genuinely fascinating.
Ride One Of The Shortest Funiculars In The World
Zagrebačka Uspinjača funicular sits across the Lotrščak Tower. Take a look at the tower before noon as they fire a shot out of the historic Grič cannon through a tiny window from the top of the tower. This ritual has been around for 137 years and still counting.
Then walk across the road and ride the Zagrebačka Uspinjača funicular that eventually takes you to Upper Town. Soak up the bird’s eye view over Zagreb as you soar above the sky.
Covering a mere 66 meters, the one-way trip lasts just 64 seconds, making it one of the world’s shortest cable cars.
Explore Mirogoj Cemetery
Save Mirogoj Cemetery for the last stop of the trip to seek peace of mind. Dubbed one of Europe’s most beautiful necropoleis and Croatia’s most significant cemetery, Mirogoj serves as the final resting place of many notable Croatians.
As you enter, marvel at the stunning and picturesque arcades where influential figures rest, with graves rich in intricate details. Take your time wandering amidst the beautiful ornaments and reflecting on Zagreb’s history.
Final Words
Zagreb is a city to relax. Instead of drowning yourself in the never-ending nightlife scene, this is a place to soothe your soul and be grateful.
The relaxed ambiance, spacious streets, fewer crowds, and certain subtleties become the biggest hooks here. That being said, Zagreb is more than just a place to sightsee, but rather a getaway to reflect and embrace a little happiness.