Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and modern charm that captivates every visitor. In this article, we’ll explore the Top 10 Things to Do in Zagreb, ensuring your experience is as memorable as enjoyable.
So, if you’re wondering what to do in Zagreb, read on to uncover the top highlights of this beautiful city.
Top 10 things what to do in Zagreb
- Explore Gornji Grad (The Upper Town)
- Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships
- Take a stroll around Ban Jelačić Square
- Unwind in Zrinjevac park
- Admire Zagreb Cathedral
- Wander through the Dolac market
- Experience Zagreb’s art and culture
- Ride the world’s shortest funicular
- Walk along Tkalčićeva street
- Discover Zagreb’s coffee culture
1. Explore Gornji Grad (The Upper Town)
Zagreb’s Upper Town immediately comes to mind when you think of old-world charm. This part of the city is like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and historic landmarks scattered around every corner. It’s where you’ll find the iconic St. Mark’s Church, famous for its brightly coloured tiled roof, and the Lotrščak Tower, which still fires its cannon every day at noon—a tradition that’s been going strong for over a century!
But what really makes the Upper Town special is something you might not expect: the gas lamps. Every evening, a dedicated lamplighter goes around the streets and manually lights these old-fashioned lamps. It’s one of the few places left in the world where this happens, and it gives the whole area a romantic glow that feels straight out of a storybook. You can almost imagine you’re in a different century as you stroll through the narrow streets, lit by the soft flicker of the lamps.
For the best experience, head up there around twilight, just as the lamplighter begins his rounds, and soak in the magical atmosphere of Zagreb’s past.
2. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships
Here’s something you don’t find in every city: a museum dedicated entirely to the pain of broken hearts. The Museum of Broken Relationships is one of Zagreb’s quirkiest and most fascinating attractions. It’s not your typical museum—here, every exhibit tells the story of a failed relationship. People from all over the world have donated personal items, along with stories of love lost, and some of them are deeply moving, while others are downright funny.
You’ll come across all sorts of things: a stuffed toy, a wedding dress, even a garden gnome. Each one represents a moment in someone’s life, accompanied by a short explanation of the relationship that fell apart. What makes this museum truly unique is the raw human emotion behind every object—it’s like walking through a collection of memories, some bitter, some sweet, but all very real.
3. Take a stroll around Ban Jelačić Square
If Zagreb has a heartbeat, it’s right here in Ban Jelačić Square. This is where everything comes together—the city’s history, its modern energy, and its people. Named after Josip Jelačić, a Croatian hero whose statue proudly stands in the centre, the square always buzzes with life.
What makes Ban Jelačić Square truly unique is its role as the traditional dividing line between the Upper and Lower Towns. On one side, you’ve got the older, medieval part of the city, while on the other, the newer, more modern areas sprawl out in front of you. It’s a symbolic meeting point for old and new, where past and present blend seamlessly.
You’ll find cafés lining the square, perfect for grabbing a coffee and watching the world go by. From here, you can easily explore all the main sights. It’s a great starting point for your Zagreb adventure, and if you hang around long enough, you’ll feel like you’ve experienced a little bit of everything the city has to offer.
4. Uwind in Zrinjevac Park
Right in the heart of Zagreb’s city centre, Zrinjevac Park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. It’s the kind of place where locals come to unwind, take a leisurely stroll, or simply sit on a bench and enjoy the shade of the towering trees. As part of Zagreb’s famous Lenuci’s Horseshoe—a series of interconnected parks—it’s the perfect spot to take a breather while still being in the middle of the action.
But Zrinjevac isn’t just another park. What makes it truly special is its meteorological column, a quirky little relic from the 19th century. Installed in 1884, this old-school weather station still stands proudly in the centre of the park, giving passersby daily updates on the weather. It’s a lovely nod to the past and a reminder of how the simplest things can become landmarks over time.
Bring a book, grab an ice cream, and soak up the laid-back vibes of Zagreb’s favourite green oasis.
5. Admire Zagreb Cathedral
Standing tall and proud in the city skyline, the Zagreb Cathedral is a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture and the tallest building in Croatia. Its twin spires are so iconic that you can see them from almost anywhere in the city, serving as a constant reminder of Zagreb’s rich history and resilience.
The cathedral has survived earthquakes, invasions, and numerous reconstructions, yet it remains one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Zagreb. What makes it particularly unique is how it’s not just a place of worship, but a symbol of the city’s perseverance. After a devastating earthquake in 1880, the cathedral was rebuilt in the stunning style you see today, and it continues to undergo renovations after the more recent 2020 earthquake.
As you step inside, you’ll be struck by the grandeur of the interior—the vaulted ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and beautifully detailed altar. For the best experience, visit early in the morning when it’s quieter, and take a moment to admire the craftsmanship that has withstood the test of time.
6. Wander Through the Dolac Market
For a taste of local life, Dolac Market is the place to be. Just above Ban Jelačić Square, this bustling market has been at the heart of Zagreb for nearly 100 years. It’s where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and cheeses while catching up with friends.
What makes Dolac special are the red umbrellas that fill the open-air market, creating a vibrant scene. Upstairs, farmers sell seasonal fruits and vegetables, while downstairs, you’ll find butchers and fishmongers with top-quality products.
Visit in the morning for the freshest goods, and don’t hesitate to chat with friendly vendors for local tips!
7. Experience Zagreb’s Art and Culture
Zagreb is a cultural hub, home to numerous galleries, museums, and theatres. One of the highlights is the Mimara Museum, an impressive art museum that houses a diverse collection ranging from ancient artefacts to European masters like Rembrandt and Caravaggio. (the museum is temporarily closed, but keep checking the website for updates.
For contemporary art lovers, the Museum of Contemporary Art offers a dynamic space with installations and exhibitions from Croatian and international artists. The building itself is a work of art, and the museum often hosts events and workshops that engage the local art scene.
If classical music or opera is more your style, the Croatian National Theatre is a stunning venue where you can catch performances ranging from ballet to opera. The theatre’s architecture alone is worth a visit, with its grand Baroque facade dominating the square in front.
8. Ride the World’s Shortest Funicular
If you’re looking for a quick and quirky way to get to Upper Town, Zagreb’s funicular is your best bet. It may be one of the shortest funiculars in the world—stretching just 66 metres—but what it lacks in length, it more than makes up for in charm. In less than a minute, you’ll be whisked from the hustle of Lower Town to the quaint, cobbled streets of Upper Town, all while enjoying a scenic little ride.
What makes this funicular ride so unique is that it’s the shortest public-transport funicular in the world. Despite its brief journey, it’s a beloved local feature and offers a memorable alternative to walking up the steep streets. Plus, the ride gives you a glimpse of the contrast between the city’s modern side and its historic, medieval quarter.
Take the funicular if you want to avoid the uphill trek, or just for the fun of it! It’s a great way to give your feet a break and enjoy one of the city’s more offbeat experiences.
9. Walk along Tkalčićeva street
A stroll down Tkalčićeva Street is a must when in Zagreb. This lively street is bursting with character, lined with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques that invite you to stop and enjoy the atmosphere. Once a riverbed of the Medveščak River, Tkalčićeva now thrives as one of the city’s most vibrant areas.
What makes this street truly unique is its blend of history and modernity. You’ll often find locals and tourists mingling, creating a lively vibe perfect for people-watching. Grab a coffee or a pastry from one of the many charming cafés and soak in the energy around you. In the evening, the street transforms into a bustling hub of nightlife, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
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10. Discover Zagreb’s Coffee Culture
When in Zagreb, you absolutely have to dive into the city’s vibrant coffee culture. Coffee here isn’t just a drink; it’s a way of life. From charming little cafés tucked away in cobblestone streets to bustling coffee shops with outdoor seating, there’s a spot for everyone to sit back, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere.
One of the unique aspects of Zagreb’s coffee culture is the tradition of sitting for hours over a cup of coffee. It’s not uncommon to see locals lingering over their drinks, catching up with friends, or even diving into a good book. This laid-back vibe makes it the perfect opportunity to soak in the city’s charm.
Don’t miss trying a classic Croatian coffee, like “kava” served with a little sugar and a glass of water on the side. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, grab a “cappuccino”—it’s usually served with a beautiful foam art on top. So find a sunny spot, order your favourite brew, and take a moment to simply enjoy life in Zagreb. Trust us, it’s one of the best ways to experience the city!
Check the list of the best coffee shops in Zagreb here.
Summary – Top 10 things to do in Zagreb
Explore the medieval streets of the Upper Town, where you might feel like you’re in a period drama, and don’t miss the Museum of Broken Relationships, which shows that love can lead to some rather awkward exhibits! Stroll through the lively Ban Jelačić Square, then seek refuge in Zrinjevac Park when the crowds become overwhelming—because we all need a bit of greenery to ponder life’s mysteries.
Make sure to admire the stunning Zagreb Cathedral and enjoy the local coffee culture on Tkalčićeva Street, where lingering over a cup might just make you late for your next appointment! With fresh produce at Dolac Market and artistic wonders at the Art Pavilion, Zagreb promises a memorable and entertaining visit for everyone.
