A Visitor’s Guide to Zagreb – the largest city in the country
Zagreb is a beautiful and fascinating city located in Croatia. As the largest city in the country and the capital of the nation, Zagreb is one of the most visited destinations in Croatia. Each year hundreds of thousands of tourists flock to the historic city centre to enjoy the cobblestone streets, incredible architecture and charming atmosphere.
The city also boasts several impressive museums and outdoor recreation spaces that can be enjoyed in the warmer months. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway to Zagreb or a family holiday, use this guide to learn more about the most popular attractions and accommodation options in the city.
Gornji Grad
Gornji Grad can be directly translated as the Upper City and is the historic center of Zagreb. It is this area that most people think of when Zagreb comes to mind.
The streets are lined with cobblestones and much of the architecture is medieval. Within the Gornji Grad you will find the impressive Cathedral which dominates Zagreb’s skyline as well as the homes of artisans and tradesmen from as far back as the thirteenth century.
A view of Zagreb, Croatia taken from Gornji Grad, looking towards the Cathedral / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Damien Smith
The highlight of this historical area is the Old Town Gate, which is now a beautiful shrine to the Virgin Mary. There are no costs associated with visiting the Gornji Grad but touring the Cathedral towers will have an additional fee.
Mimara Museum
Although there are over a dozen different museums in Zagreb, Mimara Museum is without a doubt the most impressive. The museum boasts over four thousand different works of art within the complex.
It is one of the most extensive collections in all of Europe and has pieces from prehistoric civilizations as well as classics from European masters like Goya, Rembrandt, Delacroix and Turner. The Mimara Museum, known as the Muzej Mimara to locals, is closed on Mondays and charges 40 kn for adult admission.
Medvedgrad
This incredible Croatian fortress is located on the impressive Medvednica Mountain that overlooks the entire city of Zagreb. Although it requires a short hike, tram or cable car to get to the mountain, it is certainly worth the journey.
Medvedgrad is a castle fortress complex that was built in the thirteenth century in order to protect the region from the invading Tartars. Twenty years ago major restoration was completed to Medvedgrad in order to make it more visitor friendly.
It is home to numerous jousting tournaments throughout the year as well as restaurants, cafes and a memorial to fallen Croatian soldiers. Admission to the complex is 15 kn for each visitor and an additional 30 kn for the English guided tour.
Maksimir Park & Zagreb Zoo
If you want to spend some time outdoors in Zagreb, head to the Maksimir Park. This park is one of the most popular destinations in the city for locals and visitors alike. There are paths for walking, jogging or cycling as well as a lake for swimming and rowing.
If you are an animal enthusiast, then be sure not to miss out on the wildlife at the Zagreb Zoo. Entry to the zoo for adults is 30 kn while children under the age of eight are completely free. Entry to the park itself for recreational purposes is also free.
Maksimir Park in Zagreb
Accommodation Options in the City
Since Zagreb is a top destination for European holidays, it should come as no surprise that there are numerous accommodations options available throughout the city. In and around the historic city centre you will find affordable hotels and budget guesthouses as well as more upscale inns and boutique hotels. If you want more space and a more exclusive accommodation, look instead for privately rented Croatian villas outside of the city.
St. Mark’s Church, Zagreb, Croatia
