Zagreb is a city rich in history and culture, where charming streets are lined with stunning architecture and inviting cafes. It’s a place where you can wander through lively markets, relax in lush parks, and discover intriguing museums that showcase the essence of Croatian life.
In this article, we’ll explore 25 best things to do in Zagreb — from notable landmarks and tasty dining experiences to hidden gems that showcase the city’s unique character.
There are plenty of great reasons to visit Zagreb. The city is steeped in history and has a creative vibe that makes it special for both locals and visitors.
You can wander through beautiful streets lined with historic buildings, explore a diverse food scene, and relax in the lovely green parks that provide a nice break from the city bustle. The warmth of the locals and a variety of cultural events make Zagreb a place that feels welcoming and vibrant.
Zagreb offers a variety of activities, from exploring popular squares to discovering hidden historical sites. Here are 25 best things to do during your visit:
Ban Jelacic Square is the lively heart of Zagreb. Here, you’ll find the iconic statue of Ban Josip Jelacic, a 19th-century governor and national hero who played a key role in Croatia's fight for independence.
The square is surrounded by cafes and shops, making it a perfect place to relax, grab a quick bite, and soak in the local atmosphere.
Just a stone's throw from Ban Jelacic Square, Dolac Market is a feast for the senses. This open-air market is filled with colorful stalls showcasing fresh produce, homemade goods, and local delicacies.
Engage with friendly vendors, taste seasonal fruits, and discover unique handcrafted items. It’s an experience that will give you a taste of everyday Croatian life.
Experience a quintessential Zagreb tradition at Flower Square (Cvjetni trg), officially known as Petar Preradović Square. This lively area is affectionately called Flower Square due to the many kiosks that sell beautiful flowers.
On Saturday mornings, the square transforms into a lively gathering spot, attracting locals and celebrities — especially well-dressed individuals eager to be seen. Journalists often come to capture the fashionable crowd as everyone gathers to socialize over coffee.
Find a cozy spot at one of the inviting cafes, enjoy a rich Croatian coffee, and soak up the charming surroundings and lively energy of the city.
Wander over to Tkalčićeva Street, affectionately known as Tkalča, where the lively atmosphere comes alive. This charming street is lined with cozy bars and restaurants, making it the perfect place to grab a beer with friends. As the sun sets, the street buzzes with laughter and good conversation, creating a welcoming vibe that’s hard to resist.
No trip to Zagreb is complete without picking up a licitar heart, a traditional Croatian souvenir that embodies love and affection. While these colorful, beautifully decorated gingerbread hearts are technically edible, they are not meant for eating; instead, they serve as charming decorations and symbols of love.
For a fun and unique experience, hop on the Uspinjača funicular, one of the shortest funiculars in the world. This charming ride takes you up to the Upper Town, offering lovely views of the city along the way. Once you reach the top, you’ll find yourself in the historic heart of Zagreb, ready to explore even more.
A short walk from the funicular in the Upper Town will bring you to the stunning St Mark's Church, located in St. Mark's Square. This historic square is also home to the government headquarters, adding to its significance. The church features a colorful tiled roof adorned with the coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, and Slavonia.
Strolling along the Strossmayer Promenade is a delightful way to experience the beauty of Upper Town. This scenic promenade offers breathtaking views of the city and the Sava River. With its charming benches, it’s an ideal spot to relax, enjoy a quiet moment, or take some picturesque photos.
Witnessing the noon cannon fire of the Gricki cannon at Lotrscak Tower is a must when in Zagreb. This historic tower, which dates back to the 13th century, marks the time with a bang and offers stunning views from the top.
Since January 1, 1877, the Grički cannon has been fired regularly, making it one of the few in the world to do so. While Vienna and St. Petersburg also have cannons that fire at noon, they do not do so as routinely.
Originally constructed for defense purposes, the Gric Tunnel is an intriguing underground passageway that runs beneath the city of Zagreb. Today, it provides a unique route connecting the Upper Town to the Lower Town.
The tunnel often hosts art exhibits and cultural events, adding to its charm. The best installations come to life during the Advent season, transforming the Gric Tunnel into a magical experience.
Zagreb is home to a variety of quirky and delightful museums that add a unique twist to your visit. One highlight is the Museum of Broken Relationships, where you can explore intriguing stories and artifacts that capture the themes of love and loss in a deeply moving way.
Another must-see is the Museum of Illusions, featuring mind-bending exhibits that provide fun and entertainment for all ages. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss the Chocolate Museum. Here, you can learn about the history and evolution of chocolate while indulging in some delicious treats along the way.
This medieval gate houses a shrine dedicated to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, who is regarded as the patron saint of Zagreb. Inside, you'll discover a beautifully gilded icon of Mary holding the baby Jesus, famed for surviving a fire in the past.
The southern and eastern walls of the shrine are decorated with marble carvings of prayers, while benches and a table provide a place for visitors to light candles and offer their prayers. This shrine holds special significance for Catholics in Zagreb, who often come to find reflection and solace.
The Zagreb Solar System is a captivating outdoor installation showcasing sculptures of the planets in our solar system. Central to the installation is The Grounded Sun, a bronze sculpture by Ivan Kožarić from 1994.
In 2004, artist Davor Preis expanded the installation by creating Nine Views, which includes stainless steel sculptures representing the planets: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and the dwarf planet Pluto.
These sculptures are arranged at proportional distances from The Grounded Sun, creating a unique representation of our solar system. This arrangement invites visitors to explore and learn about the planets while enjoying the charm of the city.
Sol Tapas is a cozy spot owned by the celebrated Croatian chef, Mate Jankovic. Here, you’ll discover a unique menu that beautifully combines Mediterranean flavors with traditional Croatian dishes.
With a focus on fresh, local ingredients, the restaurant encourages guests to order a variety of small plates to share, allowing everyone to sample different flavors and dishes together.
Out Rooftop is a chic bar located on Ilica, the longest street in Zagreb. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city’s heritage and beauty. This spot is ideal for unwinding with friends or enjoying a night out. The bar features a diverse menu of delicious cocktails, along with a selection of wines, beers, and other beverages.
For a true taste of local cuisine, indulge in some traditional strukli at the elegant Esplanade Hotel. This delicious dish, made of dough and filled with cheese, is a must-try when in Zagreb.
Enjoy it baked or boiled, and let the rich flavors introduce you to the essence of Croatian comfort food. The beautiful setting of the hotel adds to the experience, making it a truly memorable stop on your culinary journey.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Zagreb is by joining a free walking tour. These tours, often led by knowledgeable locals, provide insights into the city’s rich heritage and hidden gems.
Alternatively, download the Secret Zagreb app for a self-guided adventure that takes you through lesser-known areas of the city, offering an independent way to explore while learning about its intriguing history.
Zrinjevac Park is a fantastic green space perfect for unwinding. Pack a picnic and find a cozy spot on the grass, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the beautiful pathways lined with centuries-old trees. The park often hosts concerts, art exhibitions, and various events, making it a great place to stumble upon something special during your visit.
Escape the urban hustle by visiting the Botanical Garden, a green oasis in the heart of Zagreb. This serene space is home to a diverse collection of plant species, beautiful walking paths, and charming ponds. Stroll through the gardens, enjoy the fresh air, and bring a book to read amidst the serene surroundings. It’s an ideal spot to relax and recharge.
For a taste of Zagreb’s creative side, head to the Design District on Marticeva Street. This lively area is packed with quirky shops, local boutiques and innovative studios that showcase the work of local artists and designers.
Spend some time wandering through the streets, browsing unique fashion items and handcrafted goods. It’s a great place to pick up something special and maybe meet the talented people behind the creations. Plus, you can find some trendy cafes to relax in while enjoying the area’s artistic vibe.
If you love a treasure hunt, don’t miss the Hrelic Flea Market, one of the largest flea markets in the region. Open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, this market is filled with an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage clothing, unique trinkets, and a variety of local goods. It's the perfect place to find quirky souvenirs or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere — just make sure to visit early in the morning to get your hands on the best stuff.
For a taste of outdoor fun, head to the Jarun Lake, often affectionately referred to as the "Sea of Zagreb." This beautiful recreational area offers a variety of activities, including swimming and kayaking during the summer months.
If you prefer to stay on land, you can enjoy the walking and cycling paths that wind around the lake. The surrounding parks provide plenty of space for picnics and relaxation, making Jarun a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.
Maksimir Park is another green retreat just a short tram ride from the city center. Established in the 18th century, it is one of the oldest public parks in the world and was originally designed as a landscape garden in the style of English Romanticism.
With its beautifully landscaped gardens, serene lakes, and winding trails, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing picnic. You can also visit the Zagreb Zoo which is located within the park.
The Zagreb Cable Car, which opened in 2022, offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Sljeme, the highest peak of Medvednica Mountain, is a beloved destination for locals who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities. This picturesque spot also hosted world ski races until 2023.
As you ascend the cable car, you'll reach the OIV Tower. This 169-meter (563 ft) tall TV and radio tower features a viewpoint that offers spectacular vistas of the city below. There’s also a café where you can relax and enjoy refreshments while taking in the stunning scenery.
Complete your Zagreb experience with a visit to Medvedgrad, a medieval fortress located on Medvednica Mountain. Take a walk through the ruins, learn about the fortress’s past at the museum, and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. You can hike up to the fortress or take the cable car and enjoy a scenic walk from the top.
In Zagreb, most hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers offer free Wi-Fi, so you can easily stay connected during your visit. If you need reliable internet while you’re on the go, consider getting an eSIM. This way, you can stay connected throughout the city without the hassle of purchasing local SIM cards.
Here are some eSIM providers you might consider for your visit to Croatia:
| Provider | Pros | Cons | Price | |
 | Holafly | Unlimited data excellent customer support | No option for data sharing | From $6.90 |
 | Lyntel | Offers local, regional, and global eSIMs, hotspot sharing capability | Expensive, no unlimited data plans | From $4.00 |
 | Airalo | IUser-friendly app, hotspot sharing capability | Strict refund policies, no phone number included | From $4.50 |
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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