Self-Guided Zagreb Walking Tour
Explore Zagreb in One Day
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If you want to know how to spend one day in Zagreb, we’ve listed the best things to do in Zagreb, Croatia, in 24 hours. Our 1-day Zagreb itinerary includes the most beautiful spots, the best attractions, and some food recommendations. Our free Zagreb walking tour will guide you through Zagreb’s upper town and lower town through all the important sights and give you some insight into the history of this stunning city. So let’s start with a quick overview of the city layout – Zagreb’s upper town and lower town.
Top Things to Do in One Day in Zagreb
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital is also the largest city, however fewer tourists visit this part of Croatia. With its stunning architecture, historic monuments, unique coffee culture, green parks, cultural attractions and abundance of festivals and events, Zagreb is a great tourist destination. The city will surprise you with its unique layout of upper and lower town, each with its own characteristics and attractions. It’s a great destination for a weekend-getaway and a great starting point to explore the Northern areas of Croatia.
Zagreb Upper Town (Gradec and Kaptol)
We were a bit confused on our first day till we’ve learned the layout of the city. The main area of Zagreb is comprised of the upper town and the lower town. Most of the famous historical monuments and landmarks of Zagreb can be found in the upper town, so it’s a good idea to learn a bit more about the city’s history before we start our self-guided Zagreb walking tour. Zagreb’s upper town can be divided into two main areas, Gradec and Kaptol. Before 1850 these two areas used to be two different settlements which were separated by a stream that ran along what nowadays is the very trendy Tkalčićeva Street.
Gradec History
Gradec (also referred to as Gornji Grad, meaning upper town) was first mentioned in historical records when it was declared a free city in 1242 by king Bela IV. Subsequently, the citizens of Gradec were given different rights (including choosing their own mayor) and soon after they started fortifying their city with defensive walls and towers. There were four gates around the walled city, out of which only what used to be the Stone Gate has survived. The urban layout of Gradec is recognizable to this day and preserved beautifully, and it’s probably one of our favorite areas of the city.
Gradec’s location and main attractions: The area of Gradec is located on the hill west to Tkalčićeva Street and some of the attractions in the area include the Lotrščak Tower and St. Mark’s Church.
Kaptol History
Kaptol was founded on the opposite hill to Gradec, by King Ladislaus in 1094 when he decided to establish the Zagreb diocese – a district which was under the jurisdiction of the bishop who also lived there. Throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, Kaptol’s citizens were also busy with building fortifications around the town and Zagreb Cathedral.
Throughout the ages, these settlements have seen many battles. Both of them have fought foreign intruders, but they also fought amongst themselves. Finally, following the accelerated expansion of both settlements, Gradec and Kaptol were united in 1850 into one municipality and from that moment on Zagreb’s infrastructures were developed very quickly.
One Day in Zagreb – Walking Tour
Zagrab One Day Walking Tour - Upper Town
Stop 1 - Statue of Ban Josip Jelačić at Ban Jelačić Square
The Ban Jelačić Square is a great starting point for our walking tour since it’s the commercial heart of Zagreb, situated below the two hillside settlements of Gradec and Kaptol. The square was built in the 17th century to accommodate local fairs. The name “Ban Jelačić Square” was given to it in 1848 in honor of Count Josip Jelačić, a general in the Austrian Army who fought for the independence of Croatia. He was the governor of Croatia (“Ban”) from 1848 till 1859. You can see his statue riding a horse in the middle of the square. Most of the buildings around the square date back to the 19th century and exemplify different architectural styles such as Art Nouveau and Postmodernism. The fountain in the square is called the Manduševac fountain, and it was built above a natural spring that used to be the main water supply for Zagreb.
Zagreb Fun Fact: Did you know that the original statue of Ban Josip Jelačić from 1866 was removed by the communist authorities in 1947? Originally it was facing the north to symbolize his rebellion against Hungary and Austria in defense of Croatia’s rights. In 1990 the statue was placed in the square once more and this time it was facing the south, with his face to the main square and the new neighborhoods of Zagreb.
Insider Tip: In the summer, make sure to look for the “kumica” women (traditionally-dressed peasant women) with their traditional outfits. They stroll around the city’s tourist sites and sing traditional songs. There are also parades featuring characters from Zagreb’s history.
Opening Hours: 24/7 Address: Trg bana Josipa Jelačića
Walking Directions: Head east (towards the fountain) and start walking to the north on Trg bana Josipa Jelačića toward Ul. Tome Bakača, Turn right to Ulica Augusta Cesarca, the map will be to your left
Stop 2 - Zagreb City Map - Zagreb Pozdravlja
Looking at this bronze statue of the layout of Zagreb really helped us get our bearings and understand the city’s layout. There is also an overview of Zagreb’s history.
Opening Hours: 24/7 Address: Ulica Augusta Cesarca,
Walking directions: Head north and climb up Ul. Tome Bakača till you see the Zagreb Cathedral to your right
Stop 3 - Zagreb Cathedral
Another one of Zagreb’s symbols, the soaring twin towers of the cathedral are unmissable. The current structure of the cathedral (whose official name is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary) dates back to the late 19th century and is influenced by Neo-Gothic motifs. However, the original structure was built soon after the establishment of the bishopric of Zagreb in 1094. Various additions to the original structure such as the defensive wall and its rounded towers and the bell tower were added during the years. Unfortunately, the earthquake of 1880 caused serious damage to the cathedral, and it was reconstructed in Neo-Gothic style which was very popular at the time. Outside the cathedral, there’s a beautiful fountain with golden statues of the Virgin Mary and four angels. Make sure to have a glimpse inside of the cathedral to see the beautiful interior and ornamented columns.
Fun Fact: It’s almost impossible to see the Zagreb Cathedral without some kind of scaffolding. The cathedral’s towers are about 105-meter high, and since they have been built from soft limestone, there is a constant need to renovate and restore them.
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 10:00-17:00, Sunday 13:00-17:00 Address: Kaptol Ul. 31
Walking Directions: From Zagreb Cathedral head west and follow Kaptol Ul. and take the slight turn to the left to Dolac Ul. until you get to Dolac market.
Stop 4 - Dolac Market
This open-air market is one of the symbols of Zagreb with its eye-catching red umbrellas. At Dolac Market, “the belly of Zagreb”, you’ll find dozens of stands of fresh vegetables, fruits, fish and meat. Around the market there are many food stalls and coffee shops. The roots of Dolac Market date back to the 20th century when it was designed as a three-level modern marketplace to accommodate the rapid growth of the city’s population. At the top of the stairs that lead to Dolac Market, there’s a bronze statue of a peasant woman carrying a basket on her head. The statue ‘Kumica Barica’ represents the traditionally-dressed peasant women who have been selling vegetables, fruits and cheese at Dolac market for ages. You can see some street art on the facades of the buildings around the market, and on the staircase that leads to the upper level of the market (under Kumica Barica)
Opening hours: Sunday – Friday: 7:00 am – 2:00 pm (1:00 slows down), Saturday: 6:00 am – 1:00 pm Address: Dolac 9
Walking Direction: Walk down the staircase where the ‘Kumica Barica’ stands, and turn right to Ul. Ivana Tkalčića, walk up the street and turn left on Krvavi Most. This street is also known as the “Bloody Bridge” since at this location there used to be a bridge linking Gradec and Kaptol and many wars were fought between the two separate settlements back in the days. Turn right on Radićeva Ul. and when you see the statue of St. George and the slain dragon to his feet to your left, take the staircase next to it that will lead you to Kamenita Ul. The Stone Gate is to your left.
Insider Tip: Radićeva Ul. is one of the most beautiful streets in Zagreb, so look for photo opportunities.
Stop 5 - The Stone Gate
The Stone Gate is one of the most special places in Zagreb. How often do you see a chapel in the middle of a passage where pedestrians cross the gate just near praying believers? Out of the four gates of Gradec, the Stone Gate is the only gate that survived the turmoil of times. The original gate was destroyed in the 1731 fire that caused great damage to the city whose structures were made mainly from wood. After the flames were put out, a painting of Virgin Mary with baby Jesus was discovered intact inside the gate. This was viewed as a miracle, and nowadays you can admire the original painting which is displayed in a special altar inside the renovated Stone Gate. People stop at this small unique chapel, light a candle and take a few moments to pray in front of the painting. Notice the thankful monuments on the walls and be respectful of this one-of-a-kind chapel.
Opening hours: 24/7 Address: Kamenita Ul.
Walking Direction: Walk up Kamenita ul. and take the first left to Ul. Jurja Habdelića which after a few meters turns into Jezuitski trg. Just as Jezuitski trg. starts to curve to the right, you’ll see a path to your left, follow it till you get to the viewpoint.
Zagreb Walking Tour Stop 6 - Panoramic Viewpoint of Zagreb
This must be one of the best viewpoints in Zagreb. In front of you you’ll see the Zagreb Cathedral and the view of Kaptol. There are a few love locks on the fence and some benches to sit and admire the view.
Insider Tip: This is the location of the famous mural, the Whale by Etien. Unfortunately, when we there the mural was covered due to construction work.
Opening hours: 24/7 Address: Above Strossmayerovo šetalište (behind St Catherine’s Church)
Walking Direction: When facing Kaptol, to your right, you’ll see a staircase, walk down the stairs.
Stop 7 - Gradec Plateau and Zagreb Street Art
After climbing down the stairs, turn around and see some of Zagreb’s urban murals, one of which is in honor of Nikola Tesla (who was born and raised in the Austrian Empire – present-day Croatia). Check out the view from Gradec Plateau and walk along Strossmayerovo šetalište which overlooks the south side of Zagreb.
Opening hours: 24/7 Address: Strossmayerovo šetalište
Walking Direction: Continue on Strossmayerovo šetalište till you see Lotrščak Tower to your right.
Stop 8 - Lotrščak Tower and the Strossmayer Promenade
The Lotrščak Tower is one of the two medieval towers that have remained intact in old Gradec. In the past, the bells of the tower used to summon the townsfolk to return to town before the gates were locked for the night. Nowadays, there’s a cannon on the tower’s upper deck, and every day at noon the cannon is fired. You can climb to the upper deck of the tower for a panoramic view of Zagreb. Continue along the tree-lined Strossmayer Promenade for a while, enjoy the leafy path, sit on one of the benches, admire the artistic sculptures, and take a few photos.
Insider Tip: During the summer months there’s a local festival, Summer on Stross, during which the Strossmayer Promenade turns into a lively venue with live music events, fireworks displays and more.
Lotrščak Tower Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm, Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm Address: Tomićeva Ul. 9
Strossmayer Promenade Opening Hours: 24/7 Address: Strossmayerovo šetalište 16-99
Walking Direction: Cross the little park to the right of the Lotrščak Tower and continue on Ćirilometodska Ul. till you see St. Mark’s Church in front of you.
Stop 9 - St. Mark’s Church and Square
St. Mark’s Church is located at St. Mark’s Square which is one of the most beautiful squares in Zagreb. It is the heart of the Upper Town, and you can also find there the Croatian Government, Parliament and Constitutional Court. In the past, the main market of Gradec was held here. At the heart of the square, you’ll see another one of Zagreb’s symbols, St. Mark’s Church. The original structure of the church dates back to the 13th century; however it was substantially rebuilt in Neo-Gothic style during the 19th century. At that time the colorful roof tiles were added to the original structure. The coat of arms on the left symbolizes the Triune Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia and the right one represents the city of Zagreb. Inside the church you can find the works of the Croatian sculptors, Ivan Meštrović and the painter Jozo Kljaković.
Insider Tip: During the summer months on the weekends at noon, you might even catch the Change of Guards ceremony just next to Saint Mark’s Church
Zagreb Fun Fact: Notice the gas lamps around you. There are more than 200 gas lamps in Gradec that are still in use today. Every evening a lamp-lighter lights all of them manually.
Address:Trg Sv. Marka 5 Opening Hours: To enter the church you’ll need to come at mass time: According to the church’s website: Monday – Friday at 6:00 pm, Saturdays at 7:30 am and on Sundays at 10:30 am and 6:00 pm.
Walking Direction: Take the Zagreb funicular which is located at Strossmayerovo šetalište opposite the Lotrščak Tower (so retrace your steps back to the tower).
Stop 10 - Zagreb Funicular
The 66-meter-long funicular is the shortest in the world. It connects Zagreb’s upper and lower towns. It was opened in 1890 as the first mean of public transportation in Zagreb. The ride is a minute long, and it goes up/down every 10 minutes.
Insider Tip: If you don’t want to take it, you can just take the stairs which are located next to it.
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 6:30 am -10:00 pm Address: Opposite Lotršćak Tower
Walking Direction: After the ride, you’ll see a path to your right (when facing the lower town) that will lead you to the entrance of the Grič tunnel on Tomićevato street.
One Day in Zagreb - Lower Town
Stop 11 + 12 - Grič Tunnel and the nearby Art Park
The Grič Tunnel was built during World War II as a bomb shelter. It is only a small part of a large network of underground tunnels under the city of Zagreb. The Grič Tunnel has been reopened to the public in recent years, and currently it provides some shortcuts for the residences. You can cross it if you like, but we just had a look inside and continued to the adjacent Art Park. Zagreb has a few art parks, but this one is the closest to the city center. It is located between Strossmayer Promenade and Tomićeva street, and there’s a staircase from Strossmayer Promenade that leads directly to it. The park is small, but it is home to an interesting collection of graffiti and art installations.
Fun Fact: If you’re into street art, look for the repainted water pumps around Zagreb. They are part of an artistic project which was initiated by local artists to beautify the nearly-forgotten water pumps.
Grič Tunnel Opening Hours: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm daily Address: Tomićeva Ul. 5A
Walking Direction: Walk back towards the funicular and head south on Tomićeva ul./Uspinjača toward Ilica street, turn left onto Ilica and walk to the Oktogon Gallery located at Ilica no. 5
Stop 13 + 14 - Oktogon at Ilica Street and Flower Square
The Oktogon Gallery connects Ilica street to the Flower Square. The impressive building was built at the end of the 19th century and housed the First Croatian Savings Bank. Nowadays, it is an elegant and upscale shopping venue. We are not here for the shopping though, but just for the marvelous architecture and the beautiful ceiling of the Oktogon Gallery. Cross it over to the Flower Square.
Cvjetni Trg or Flower Square (officially named Petar Preradovic Square) is one of the most popular spots in Zagreb. The coffee shops are always full of locals who like to catch up with friends and spend their time people-watching over a cup of coffee. As you can gather from its nickname, you’ll also find many flower stands in its vicinity.
Fun Fact: Zagreb has a unique coffee culture; the local residents sure love their coffee, and the coffee shops are full most hours of the day. They even have their own tradition of špica. During Saturdays, from about mid-morning till early afternoon the coffee shops at the city center are full of people dressed in their best garments, chatting with friends over a cup of coffee.
Opening Hours: 24/7 Oktogon Address: Ilica no. 5 The Flower Square Address: Trg Petra Preradovića/ Cvjetni Trg
Walking Direction: Continue walking south till you get to Masarykova Ul., turn right and continue walking till you’ll see the building of the Croatian National Theatre to your left.
Lenuci Horseshoe / Zagreb Green Horseshoe
Zagreb is not just about the medieval streets and historical monuments. It is also exceptionally green. Thanks to great urban planning, there are patches of parks and gardens throughout the city center. The most famous one is Zagreb’s Green Horseshoe. This u-shape series of squares and parks were conceived by an urban planner named Milan Lenuci in the 19th century. Some of the most beautiful buildings in Zagreb are located along the Green Horseshoe.
Zagreb Walking Tour Stop 15 - The Croatian National Theatre & The Well of Life
The Croatian National Theatre is located at Trg Republike Hrvatske (or Republic of Croatia Square). The National Theatre was officially opened in 1895, and to this day it is a major part of the cultural life of Croatia’s capital. The stunning building was built in the Neo-Baroque style and is surrounded by groomed gardens. In front of the theatre, there’s a sculpture by the famous Croatian sculptor, Ivan Meštrović. The bronze sculpture, the Well of Life, symbolizes the cycle of life. It depicts different figurines in various phases of life crouching around a well which symbolizes life.
Opening Hours (outer premises): 24/7 Address: Trg Republike Hrvatske 15
Walking Direction: Continue south along Trg Republike Hrvatske and turn right to Trg Antuna, Ivana i Vladimira Mažuranića and continue straight on Trg Marka Marulića. There are several entrances to the Botanical Garden on Ul. Antuna Mihanovića.
Insider Tip: There’s a nice coffee shop, Botaničar, where you can stop for drinks (no snacks/food) on Trg Marka Marulića 6.
Stop 16 - Zagreb Botanical Gardens
The botanical garden of the Department of Science of Zagreb University was established at the end of the 19th century. More than 10,000 plant species from around the world can be found at Zagreb’s botanical garden, and it’s quite relaxing strolling along the paths, sitting on the benches and visiting one of the ponds. The garden was designed according to the English landscape style, meaning in an asymmetrical design with groups of trees and winding paths (as opposed to a more restricted design) which gives it its wild spirit/nature-like feeling.
Address: Trg Marka Marulića 9A Opening Hours: From April 1 till October 31 Monday – Tuesday: 9:00 am – 2.30 pm, Wednesday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm. Nevertheless, the opening hours vary throughout the year and on holidays, so check their website for updated opening hours and various options to enter the Garden. Admission is free.
Walking Direction: Exit the Botanical Garden and turn right, continue on Ul. Antuna Mihanovića, which later turns into Trg Ante Starčevića, till you see the eastern part of the Green Horseshoe.
Fun Fact: Notice to your right the famous Hotel Esplanade which was built in 1925 to provide luxury accommodation to the Orient Express passengers on their journey from Paris to Istanbul.
Stop 17 - 21 Continue Exploring Zagreb Green Horseshoe
Start exploring the eastern part of Zagreb’s Green Horseshoe. There are a few remarkable landmarks here including Fontana Kralja Tomislava, the Art Pavilion and the Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts. Continue north through the park till you reach the last park, Park Zrinjevac. Zrinjevac used to be the place where cattle markets took place but nowadays it is probably the most popular park in Zagreb with beautiful flowerbeds, trees, and fountains. At the northern entrance to Zrinjevac Park you can find the original Meteorological Post of Zagreb (from 1884).
One Day in Zagreb - Evening
Stop 22 + 23 - Spend the Evening at Tkalčićeva Street
Tkalčićeva (Ul. Ivana Tkalčića) is one of the coolest streets in Zagreb. It is located exactly where used to be the famous creek, the natural barrier between Kaptol and Gradec. The creek was paved over at the end of the 19th century, and now it is a charming pedestrian street, full of life every hour of the day and night. You’ll find here an eclectic selection of restaurants, cafes and bars, artistic sculptures, gorgeous murals and colorful buildings. It’s fun to walk along the street every hour of the day, but during the evenings it really comes alive. It is also a great place to spend your Saturdays as it is one of the locals’ favorite places for špica.
Stop 23 – The sculpture of Marija Juric Zagorka which was the first female professional journalist in Croatia who fought for equal rights, is located at Ul. Ivana Tkalčića no. 33. Near it you’ll find Zagreb’s old Sun Dial that was completed in 1955.
Opening Hours: 24/7 Address: Ul. Ivana Tkalčića no. 33.
What to Do If You Are Staying Longer than One Day in Zagreb?
Mirogoj Cemetery
Usually we do not recommend cemeteries as tourist attractions, but Zagreb’s largest cemetery is actually a stunning park and an open-air art gallery. It was founded in 1876 and designed by Hermann Bollé, the architect who was also responsible for the restoration of St. Mark’s church and the reconstruction of Zagreb Cathedral. Walking along the trails you’ll discover beautiful pavilions, decorated domes and sculptures by the most famous Croatian sculptors, cleverly set against the backdrop of lush vegetation.
Zagreb’s Museums
Zagreb has an array of museums for every topic and every taste. Some of the most special ones include the artistic Meštrović Atelier, the Museum of Arts and Crafts , the Image of War – Photography Museum, the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships and Museum of Illusions. Depending on your taste and time, have a look at some of Zagreb’s best museums and choose your favorite ones.
Zagreb 360°
There are a few excellent viewpoints of the city, some of which we’ve already mentioned. Another great spot is the observation deck of the skyscraper at Ilica 1a, at the south-west corner of Ban Jelačić square. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the whole city and its surroundings and you can have a drink at the bar at the top.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm daily Address: Ilica 1A
Take a Day Trip to Plitvice
One of the most stunning parks in Croatia is located only 2-2.5 hours away from Zagreb. For nature lovers, this is a must! We actually stopped there on our Croatian road trip and were blown away by this natural wonder. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a part of UNESCO list, and if you have time for a day trip, it’s a breath-taking experience to walk the wooden paths along the lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice. The park is very popular, so we recommend starting very early or later during the day. You can catch a public bus, rent a car or take an organized tour to see the park. If you come by yourself make sure to order your ticket online at least a few days in advance and keep checking the Park’s rules regarding tickets since they can change occasionally
Visit Licitar Studio
We always love visiting local artists and unique shops, and we were so excited to visit this unique studio where the traditional licitars are made. Licitars are traditional Croatian honey-dough biscuits that are decorated by hand. These edible decorations are a part of Croatia’s cultural heritage (included in UNESCO’s intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity), and this tradition has passed from one generation to another. Unfortunately, we visited Zagreb on a national holiday, and we couldn’t visit this place. But Licitar Studio should be an amazing place to try your hand at making licitars or buy souvenirs. They also have an online shop. For more information contact Licitar Studio.
Go Antiques Shopping at the Flea Market at Britanski Square
For lovers of flea markets and antiques, don’t forget to visit Zagreb’s flea market at Britanski Square (also referred to as British square/ Ilica Square). You’ll find here old postcards, second-hand books, vintage magazines, vintage kitchenware, old coins, and the usual bric-a-brac.
Opening Hours: Sundays morning till noon Address: Britanski trg 3
Visit Medvednica
You can see Mt. Medvednica from every corner of Zagreb. Nature lovers would enjoy hiking the paths of this nature park where they’ll find various marked trails, natural springs, a large cave and mountain huts with great hearty food and welcoming atmosphere. One of the best viewpoints is at the medieval Medvedgrad Castle on the southern slops of the Medvednica mountain.
Visit Maksimir Park
Maksimir was opened in 1794, which makes it one of the oldest public parks in the world. You can spend a relaxing morning strolling along the park’s hundred-year-old oak forests, meadows, lakes and streams. It is also a great place for bird watching since the park is home to more than 100 bird species.
Visit Jarun Lake
This man-made lake was built in 1987, and now it is one of the most beloved recreational areas in Zagreb. You’ll find here numerous cafes and restaurants along the lake, cycling tracks, walking trails, and long pebble beaches and during the warmer months all kinds of water sports.
Essential Information for your One Day in Zagreb Itinerary
When to Visit Zagreb
Zagreb is a great destination to visit year-round. However, April – May and the month of September are recommended since the temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer chances of rainy days. June’s temperatures are pleasant as well, but it’s usually one of the rainiest months (though we visited Zagreb in June and we had exceptionally hot weather and only one rainy day). In July and August, the temperatures are warmer but less so than along Croatia’s coast. Also, there are many events and festivals during the summer months. During December, Zagreb has its own attractions including one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. For more information about Zagreb’s monthly weather conditions.
Where to Eat in Zagreb
- Eggspress – The award for best breakfasts in Zagreb goes to Eggspress. From Eggs Benedict and Avocado toast with salmon and a hard-boiled egg to the more oriental shakshuka (eggs in tomato sauce) and spicy yogurt eggs, we loved every item on the menu. Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 7:30/8:00 am – 2:00 pm. Address: Ul. kralja Držislava 3
- Otto & Frank – Located at the hip Tkalčićeva Street, Otto & Frank serves all-day breakfast dishes, killer burgers and some salads and other items. It’s one of the most popular places in Zagreb, and they are always busy, day and night. Address: Ul. Ivana Tkalčića 20
- Heritage Croatian Food – This tiny deli/restaurant at the heart of Zagreb offers their own take on traditional Croatian food with the best ingredients from every region: truffles, olives, cheese, wine and more. Order some mains or traditional tapas accompanied by Croatian wine. There are only a few tables, but you can always buy some sandwiches or delicacies and eat them in the nearby park. Address: Petrinjska ul. 14
- La Štruk – When in Zagreb, you need to eat a proper Štrukli. This traditional dish is made of very thin dough and different fillings, and it’s usually either cooked or baked. LA ŠTRUK is THE place to try Štrukli in Zagreb. The place is usually full, but they have take-away. We tried the traditional sweet cottage cheese and one with apples. They were both delicious and very filling. Address: Skalinska ul. 5
- Amelie – One of the most famous bakeries in Zagreb, Amelie, has a great selection of pastries and cakes. Located just near the Zagreb Cathedral, it’s a great place to have a cup of coffee and something sweet. Address: Vlaška ulica 6
Last Tips for Our 24 Hours in Zagreb Itinerary
- Public Transportation – Zagreb’s trams and buses are fast and efficient. However, in the city center, you can walk everywhere without a problem. Uber is also efficient here if you want to get to/from the airport
- Coffee and Breakfast – On our first day, we were looking for a nice coffee shop to have some breakfast. We had a list of cool cafes, but after strolling around for more than an hour on an empty stomach, we’ve learned that almost none of them had any kind of breakfast (believe us, it was a bad start for our first day). Most of the cafes in Zagreb do not serve food, just coffee and alcohol. We’ve learned that it’s acceptable to buy a pastry or sandwich in one of the local bakeries and bring it with you to a coffee shop that doesn’t serve food. For breakfast recommendations, check out our food section.
- Tourist Information – The main tourist information is found at Ban Jelačić Square, and it has a great selection of maps, brochures and more.
- Zagreb Card – If you are staying in Zagreb for more than a day or you would like to take advantage of the many museums and public transportation, it’s a good idea to invest in the Zagreb Card.
That's it for our One Day in Zagreb Itinerary & Walking Guide. Let us know in the comments if find more hidden gems in Zagreb!
Disclaimer: This post was written in collaboration with with Zagreb’s Board of Tourism. Regardless, all the opinions that are expressed in this guide are our own.
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I’ve just started planning a trip to Croatia so the timing is perfect on finding this post. I have saved for future use!
So glad we could help you, Nancy! Have a great time!
Thanks for such a detailed and well explained itinerary and your photos are amazing. So much history to explore.
Thanks so much, Lisa. We’re thrilled you like our photographs 🙂 Zagreb is gorgeous and history lovers, in particular, are going to have a great time!
WOW! Really helpful tips, thanks! I plan on visiting Zagreb next spring, so I’ll be sure to make a note of your site….Also your blogs about Split and Dabrovnik. And I love the photos!
Thanks so much, Kelly! It’s our pleasure 🙂 If we were you, we’d add the Istria region to your itinerary. We’ll have a post about it soon.
what a great post! I loved visiting Croatia but only made it to the coast and the islands when I visited so I can’t wait to go back and explore places like Zagreb. I will definitely be using this guide to help me plan my trip!
Thanks, so much Merry. We loved Croatia as well. Other than the coast, we also explored Istria which is simply stunning and Zagreb of course. We loved how each region had totally different vibes.
Great post! I was in Zagreb a few years back and was surprised at how much I loved it. I didn’t really have any expectation before I visited and was blown away by how beautiful it is and what a cool vibe the city has.
Yes, we know what you mean. Zagreb took us completely by surprise! Such a beautiful and vibrant city!