Things to do in 

Zagreb

Imagine strolling alongside historic Tram 13, the smell of coffee wafting through cobbled streets, comic murals adorning city walls; that's Zagreb for you. In a city teeming with endless attractions, sorting out things to do in Zagreb can initially feel overwhelming. Explore grand squares displaying seasonal markets, or venture off the beaten path to find hidden courtyards and artist shops. The sheer reality of Zagreb is in its vibrant neighborhoods, punctuating each turn with a surprise. At every becoming hour, the city reveals more intimacy, more authenticity, and indeed, more ways to rediscover its heart.

Explore Zagreb off the beaten path

explore city off the beaten path: Step off tram lines and into quieter corners to find alternative things to do, where everyday Zagreb—its rituals, flavors, and art—opens up at an easy, local pace.

Cultural experiences: Be at Hrelić flea market in Jakuševec early Sunday, rummaging through tools, enamelware, and vinyl with coffee in hand. In the evening, slip into Zagrebački plesni centar on Ilica for contemporary dance that locals actually go see.

Small museums and galleries: Walk to Lauba – House for People and Art; its rotating shows feel fresh and you can linger with a drink at the bar. Browse casts at the Glyptotheque HAZU; it’s quiet, atmospheric, and oddly photogenic. In Upper Town, the Meštrović Atelier lets you stand inches from the sculptor’s work in a serene courtyard.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Head to Medvedgrad above the city for golden hour; the ramparts frame the skyline without the throngs. Closer in, pause at Rokov perivoj, a small lookout above Britanac where you can watch the lights come on.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Hit Dolac Market early for pumpkin seed oil, dried peppers, and a heart-shaped licitar from a stall that still ices them by hand. Pop into Bornstein Wine Bar & Shop near Kaptol for a bottle of graševina or something from Plešivica to take home. For edible souvenirs, the Kraš Bonbonniere on Ilica has classic Bajadera pralines locals actually gift.

Popular neighbourhoods

Peeling back the layers of a city’s essence can be an enriching venture when exploring neighbourhoods. Zagreb, with its diverse districts, is an exemplary case in point.

Upper Town: Roam through Zagreb's historic core, Upper Town, where red-roofed buildings speak volumes of a grand past. Discover a collage of splendid architecture and scattered remnants of city walls.

Lower Town: Marvel at the beauty of Lower Town with its array of museums, parks, and palaces. Savour a delightful mix of 19th-century charm and bustling modern life.

Kaptol: Navigate the archaic streets of Kaptol, known for its magnificent Cathedral. Bask in the area’s spiritual aura embraced by gothic-style structures and picturesque courtyards.

Gradec: Unwind in Gradec, another part of the old town, home to the iconic St. Mark’s Church. Stand amidst pastel buildings painted with history and tales of intrigue.

Tkalciceva: Navigate through Tkalciceva, a lively pedestrian street lined with colorful buildings housing an endless row of cafés and restaurants. Embrace the buzzing nightlife vibrancy, set against a backdrop of charismatic buildings.

Things to do in Zagreb by season

Spring: Sip coffee on sunlit terraces, ride the funicular to Upper Town for cherry blossoms and views, and browse Dolac Market as strawberries and wild asparagus arrive. Gentle park strolls and museum stops make easy days for families and seniors.

Summer: Seek shade along the Green Horseshoe, cool off by lakes Jarun or Bundek, and catch free buskers and pop-up stages on Strossmayer Promenade. Evenings run long with street art, open-air cinema moments, and relaxed walks for couples through lantern-lit alleys.

Fall: Kick through leaves in Maksimir, warm up with roasted chestnuts on city corners, and ride the tram to Medvednica’s trails for clear skyline views. New wines pour in neighbourhood bars, while galleries and theatres set an easy pace for culture lovers and seniors.

Winter: Drift between Advent squares strung with lights, sample fritule and mulled wine, and step into ornate churches for seasonal music. Slow tram loops, cosy bistros, and occasional snow add a soft edge to city wanderings for families and couples.

Each year brings Cest is d’Best street performances in early summer, vibrant Pride celebrations, and the Stross summer programme with nightly music. Come winter, Advent in Zagreb spreads across the centre, while January’s Night of Museums opens doors late into the evening.