Best things to do in Zagreb
Find out more about those top places in Zagreb
Zagreb: The Underrated Gem of Europe You Need to See
Nestled between the forested slopes of Mount Medvednica and the meandering River Sava, Zagreb, Croatia's charming capital, is like a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. While many travelers flock to Croatia’s sunny Dalmatian Coast, Zagreb offers a refreshing, underrated alternative that combines old-world charm with a modern edge. If you're looking for a place to visit that's packed with culture, history, and just a dash of quirky fun, Zagreb should definitely be on your travel guide radar.
Things to Do: A Journey Through Time and Culture
Zagreb is a city of contrasts—where laid-back Mediterranean vibes meet the bustling energy of Central Europe. On one hand, you’ve got the medieval old town, with its winding streets, cobblestone alleys, and impressive architecture. On the other, you’ve got a Habsburg-inspired new town, with grand boulevards and stylish cafes that wouldn’t feel out of place in Vienna. It’s like taking a stroll through time, but with a lot more coffee breaks.
Top Attractions in Zagreb:
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Saint Mark’s Church: This iconic church in the heart of the old town is a must-see! Its colorful tiled roof is a symbol of the city, and its medieval architecture will have you snapping photos at every angle. It's a perfect blend of history and beauty. Don’t forget to admire the Gothic-style interior that takes you back to another era.
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Ban Jelačić Square: The beating heart of the city, this square is a perfect spot to take in the Habsburg-era architecture and enjoy a coffee while people-watching. The square’s lively atmosphere is an excellent mix of the old and the new—with historic buildings on every corner and a very modern vibe. Plus, it’s where the locals hang out, so you know you’re in the right place.
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Zagreb Cathedral: Standing tall against the skyline, the Zagreb Cathedral is another must-see. It’s Croatia’s tallest building, and its neo-Gothic architecture will leave you in awe. Inside, you’ll find beautiful artwork, stained glass windows, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a bit of quiet reflection (or just staring in awe at the craftsmanship).
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The Museum of Broken Relationships: Now, this is where things get a little quirky. Ever wanted to see a museum dedicated to failed relationships? Well, Zagreb’s Museum of Broken Relationships is exactly that. It’s surprisingly heartfelt and thought-provoking, showcasing personal items and stories from people’s love lives. You’ll laugh, cry, and maybe even think about your own relationships in a new light.
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Tkalčićeva Street: This bustling street is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from delicious local bites to international cuisine. Grab a table at one of the charming cafes or restaurants, sip on a local beer (you’re in the land of sausages and beer, after all), and watch the world go by. This street is the place to experience Zagreb’s youthful energy and creative spirit.
Zagreb’s Art and Design Scene: A Modern Twist on Tradition
Though Zagreb has its roots in medieval and baroque history, don’t think it’s stuck in the past. Since Croatia became an independent nation in 1991, Zagreb has evolved into a vibrant city brimming with an art scene, innovative design, and a lively cultural calendar. The city’s galleries, art-nouveau architecture, and trendy cafes are a testament to its growing artistic scene.
If you’re into art galleries, you’ll love the Museum of Contemporary Art, which features works from both Croatian and international artists. And if you’re looking for something more avant-garde, check out Zagreb’s design district, where you can find boutiques and design studios showcasing the best of Croatian creativity.
Why Zagreb? Why Now?
Zagreb may not have the beaches of the Dalmatian Coast or the wild nightlife of Dubrovnik, but it has something even better—authenticity. It’s a city that lets you experience Croatia’s culture up close and personal, without the throngs of tourists. Plus, Zagreb’s youthful energy (thanks to its vibrant student population) makes it a perfect place to explore, especially if you’re into sightseeing, art, and good food.
Pro Tip: Make sure to take a tram ride to the top of Mount Medvednica for breathtaking views of the city below. It’s the perfect way to take in the scenery and get a feel for the local lifestyle. Plus, you can brag to your friends that you climbed the “mountain” (even though the tram did most of the work).
Conclusion: The Secret's Out—Zagreb is a Must-Visit
Zagreb is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, and it’s about time the world caught on. With its perfect mix of history, culture, art, and youthful energy, this city is quickly becoming a must-see destination in Europe. Whether you’re strolling through historic streets, admiring baroque architecture, or sipping a coffee at Tkalčićeva Street, there’s no shortage of things to do in Zagreb.
So, if you’re planning your next trip, make sure to add Zagreb to your list—because, trust me, this hidden gem won’t stay secret for long.
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Saint Mark’s Church
Located in the heart of Zagreb’s Upper Town, the dazzling 13th century Saint Mark’s Church is one of Croatia’s most instantly recognizable landmarks. Undoubtedly the highlight of a tour of this spectacular church is the multicolored rooftop with tiles forming the coat of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia while the interior houses sculptures by Croatia’s most famous artist, Ivan Meštrovic.
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Saint Stephen’s Cathedral
Towering over the Upper Town is Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, the most monumental Catholic place of worship in all the Balkans. With origins in the 12th century, the cathedral is also one of Croatia’s most historic locations with the interior containing a clutch of world-class medieval frescoes. The cathedral is undoubtedly a highlight of any tour of Zagreb’s old quarter.
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Mirogoj
Just a short hop on one of Zagreb’s iconic powder blue Yugoslav-era tramcars from the city center takes you to the grandiose cemetery of Mirogoj. While the exterior of the cemetery looks fortress-like, the interior is one of the Croatian capital’s most tranquil spots where you can explore the resting places of the country’s great and good that are peppered amongst the lush vegetation.
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Museum of Contemporary Art
Located south of the River Sava in Novi Zagreb, the Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the city’s most thrilling museums. With a permanent collection showcasing Croatia’s burgeoning art scene and a packed schedule of temporary exhibitions, the museum has something to please all visitors. To get the best experience, guided tours and audio-guides are available.
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Dolac Market
Marking the border between the medieval Upper Town and the fin-de-siècle Lower Town, Dolac Market is Zagreb’s beating heart. With a plethora of stalls selling some of Croatia’s freshest produce, it is a joy to explore with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, roasted meats and salty cheeses amongst the goods available to sample.
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Museum of Broken Relationships
Undoubtedly one of Europe’s quirkiest museums, the Museum of Broken Relationships showcases various mementos left over from failed relationships. Equal parts heart wrenching and heart-warming, the museum is a surprisingly profound exploration of what it means to be human.
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Mount Medvednica
For those wanting to escape the buzz of Croatia’s capital, head for the forested slopes of nearby Mount Medvednica where you can explore a medieval fortress, go mountain biking and, in the crisp winter months, rent skis and snowboards.
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Samobor
The most popular day tour from Zagreb is to the picture-perfect mountain village of Samobor. Famed for its hilltop ruined castle, which was originally built by the Bohemians in the 13th century, and mouth-watering custard pies, known as kremšnite, the village is one of Croatia’s most enchanting locations.
