While Croatia is best known for its coastline, the landlocked capital is less recognized by visitors. It’s time to put Zagreb on a spotlight. Sights like Ilica street, King Tomislav Square or Broken relationship museum have something to offer for everyone. Discover this inspiring city rich of history, culture and lovely people with this top ten list.
Narrow cobblestone streets, captivating buildings, historical surroundings, the upper town charms you away. If you want to feel and see the old part of the city, this is the place to start. You can reach the upper town either by stairs or by a funicular – the choice is yours. Either way, the trip up the hill is worth your while. From street to street you can sightsee the best places of the upper town, including the St. Mark’s church, which beauty is seen from afar thanks to the distinctive roof configuration.
Get away from the city noise and take a brisk stroll in the oldest public park in Zagreb. What can be better after a long day than to have a lovely walk in the park full of meadows, streams, creeks, lakes and other natural surroundings, where you can fully embrace your inner nature lover. From the beautiful nature in the park, you can only get distracted by the cultural heritage that this place has to offer. While you’re in the park, do not forget to visit the Zagreb Zoo that is also located here. It’s perfect for a peaceful break from the city.
Zagreb eye observation deck is a visual paradise for lofty view seekers. It has 360-degree visuals so you won’t miss a thing. Here you can see the whole city panorama and its breathtaking surroundings from the 16th floor of the building. And there is a lot to see, from old historic structures to modern skyscrapers, Zagreb is a picturesque city and this is the place for the charm of the city to unravel in front of your eyes.
If you want to experience local life, this central open-air market in Zagreb it’s the place to visit. It’s a great spot not only to buy locally grown produce but also to feel like a local. Located just right behind the main square and visited by hundreds of people every day this market is an inseparable part of the city. Farmers from all around the Zagreb area come here to offer their best wares such as fruits, vegetables, and meat. Everything is fresh and looks very flavorful.
This great landmark is formally known as the Cathedral of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This spot is not to be missed while you’re visiting Zagreb. This masterpiece is one of the most iconic monuments in Zagreb. The jaw-dropping beauty survived one earthquake and many reconstructions that transformed it into a neo-gothic monument. The inside of it is just as astonishing as the outside. Probably the most iconic part of this Cathedral is the twin towers- that can be seen from far away.
Even though Croatia is mostly known for its wines, Zagreb has plenty to offer for the beer lovers. If you are looking for a great place to taste the local beers and enjoy your stay bar Mali Medo is the place for you. Located in the busy Tkalčićeva street full of tourists and locals, it has something to offer for everyone. It has not only locally produced beer like Mrki Medved, Dva Klasa, Crna Kraljica, but also specializes in Croatian homemade dishes. Tourist friendly staff, reasonably priced and locally produced beer, makes this place stand out from the others in the area.
Zagreb is an innovative and daring city. One of the examples of that is the Museum of Broken Relationships, which is a unique venue to visit. This cleverly named museum will definitely peak your interest. You can find compelling and heartbreaking stories told by hundreds of personal belongings of past lovers from all over the world. Uncommon display of mementos that tell the universal tales of love and break-up is what makes this museum so appealing.
The largest city square named after the first Croatian King will definitely catch your eye. It’s in front of the Central Train station, so for those come to Zagreb by train, it’s the first sight they see. The stunning statue of King Tomislav statue and the Art Pavilion are the squares most striking features. This picturesque square is an outstanding place to relax and people often come here to sit and enjoy a moment. In the winter, this square becomes an outdoor skating paradise. It’s definitely a place to be visited time and time again.
Take a walk on the main shopping street in Zagreb. Ilica Street runs from Ban Josip Jelačić square to Vrapče district making it one of the longest streets in Zagreb. This lengthy shopping location is called a tourist attraction for a reason. You can find everything you need in one place here, from countless local boutiques to well-known clothing shops for fashion lovers. To enjoy a cup of coffee or a classy meal you can check out dozens of restaurants, cafés, bakeries and bars around.
Kava Tava lets customers have breakfast or brunch any time of the day. Situated in the busy Britanski square this funky decorated café is known for its mouth-watering food. English breakfast and toasted sandwiches are a very popular choice, but it is the mouthwateringly delicious pancakes that are the specialty here. Pancakes are poured with a chocolate sauce of your choosing. Coffee drinkers will also be thrilled by this place. The café offers numerous brews to suit everyone’s tastes.
