Zagreb is a city of beautiful parks, interesting museums and iconic churches. As Croatia’s capital, it is a cultural centre which is full of history. The city also has a number of vibrant neighbourhoods to explore, each with their own distinct character. Best of all, many of Zagreb’s most popular tourist attractions are absolutely free. In this Zagreb travel guide, we’ll show you the 16 best free things to do in Zagreb Croatia.
Plan you trip: Here are our Zagreb Croatia top recommendations:
Activities: book your Zagreb Croatia Tours with Get Your Guide.
Accommodation: we use Booking.com to find the best hotels.
Car Hire: for great value car rental in Croatia we recommend Localrent.com.
Transport: FlixBus for intercity buses.
Flights: find cheapest flights with cashback on WayAway.
Airport Lounge Access: start your holiday the right way with Priority Pass.
Travel Medical Insurance: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is the ideal choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
Top free things to do in Zagreb Croatia
We love a good bargain, and there’s no better bargain than getting something for free! For ease of reference, here is our list of the top free things to do in Zagreb Croatia.
- Tkalčićeva Street
- Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
- St Mark’s Church
- Mirogoj Cemetery
- Cathedral of Zagreb
- Dolac Market
- Ban Josip Jelačić Square
- Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
- Park Maksimir
- Zrinjevac Park
- Lower Town (Donji Grad)
- Tunel Grič
- Zagreb Botanical Garden – only free on Mondays and Tuesdays during the school year
- Jarun Lake
- King Tomislav Square
- Strossmayer Promenade
Keep reading to find out more about each destination.
Eat street in Zagreb Croatia: Tkalčićeva Street
About Tkalčićeva Street Zagreb Croatia
Tkalčićeva Street, also known as Ulica Ivana Tkalčića in Croatian, is a vibrant street filled with cafes, bars and restaurants. It’s a popular place for outdoor dining. The street is lined charming town houses that are painted in pretty pastel colours. There are a number of landmarks on the street, including the statue of Croatian journalist and writer Mary Juric Zagorka as well as the old sundial. Events are often held here and Tkalčićeva Street also has great nightlife.
Tkalčićeva Street in Zagreb has a fascinating history. It was once covered by Medveščak Creek and separated the twin settlements of Kaptol and Gradec. Since the early days of the city it was the centre of Zagreb industry. A number of watermills lined the creek, which in turn encouraged industry and over time shops lined the creek. However, the watermills were often subject to feuds between Kaptol and Gradec and the shops polluted the creek. In 1898, the creek was covered and the two remaining windmills were razed. Thus Ulica Potok or Creek Street in English was formed, which eventually was renamed Tkalčićeva Street. At the beginning of 20th Century up to World War 2, Tkalčićeva Street consisted mainly of brothels and was Zagreb’s red light district.
Why visit Tkalčićeva Street Zagreb Croatia
Tkalčićeva Street is a must visit in Zagreb for its lively atmosphere and its culinary scene. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal or to have a few drinks and is popular both during the day and at night. It also has charming boutique stores selling traditional Croatian goods. Additionally, Tkalčićeva Street has an interesting history, makes for great photos and is a popular tourist destination in Zagreb.
How long to spend at Tkalčićeva Street Zagreb Croatia
While you can walk from one end of Tkalčićeva Street to the other in under 10 minutes, we recommend spending at least a couple of hours here having a drink or a meal and exploring the boutique shops. Given that the street has so many great bars and restaurants, it is highly likely that you will return to Tkalčićeva Street several times during your stay in Zagreb.
Opening hours for Tkalčićeva Street Zagreb Croatia
Tkalčićeva Street is open at all hours. It’s a vibrant place both at night and during the day. It’s great for lunch, dinner or drinks.
If you have money to spend in Tkalčićeva Street Zagreb Croatia
We highly recommend coming to Tkalčićeva Street for a drink or a meal. We personally enjoyed eating at La Štruk, which is a Croatian restaurant that specialises in the Croatian dish štrukli.
Tkalčićeva Street Zagreb Croatia address
Ul. Ivana Tkalčića, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX8G+XGJ Zagreb, Croatia
Historical neighbourhood in Zagreb Croatia: Zagreb Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
About Gornji Grad
Gornji Grad–Medveščak, also known as Gornji Grad or Upper Town in English, is the historical part of Zagreb. It is one of Zagreb’s 17 districts. As the name suggests, it is in an elevated position in the city and can be accessed via the Zagreb funicular or by walking up the hill. It is centrally located and has sweeping city views. The Upper Town is full of charming streets and historical sites like Kamenita vrata (The Stone Gate) and Lotrščak Tower. Every day at noon the Grič cannon is fired from the top of Lotrščak Tower.
There are a number of interesting landmarks in Gornji Grad including St Mark’s Church, the Croatian Parliament and the Museum of Broken Relationships. In 2020 St. Mark’s Square was the scene of the 2020 Zagreb shooting, also known as the St. Mark’s Square attack. This was a lone shooter attack which resulting in the shooting of a police officer. Subsequent to this attack, St. Mark’s Square was fenced off by police. It remains closed as of 2024, so you can only see St Mark’s Church from afar.
Apart from landmarks, historical sites and museums, Zagreb Upper Town also has some great cafes, restaurants and shops.
Why visit Gornji Grad
Gornji Grad is a peaceful part of Zagreb and provides some of the best views in the city. Its historical sites and landmarks are well worth a visit. Be sure to be there at midday for the firing of the Grič cannon!
How long to spend at Gornji Grad
The Gornji Grad is the perfect place to spend a few hours. There’s plenty to see and do in the Upper Town of Zagreb including museums, St Mark’s Church and some great cafes and restaurants.
Opening hours for Gornji Grad
The Gornji Grad is open at all hours. However to make the most of your visit, we recommend visiting during the day. Don’t miss the midday firing of the Grič cannon at Lotrščak Tower.
If you have money to spend at the Gornji Grad
A unique museum in Gornji Grad is the Museum of Broken Relationships. The entry fee is 7 euro (as at 2024). There are also cafes, restaurants and shops in Zagreb Upper Town.
Gornji Grad address
Dverce ul. 6, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX7F+W9 Zagreb, Croatia
Orthodox church in Zagreb Croatia: St Mark’s Church
About St Mark’s Church Zagreb Croatia
St Mark’s Church, also known as Crkva sv. Marka in Croatian, is one of the most well-known landmarks in Zagreb. This church is also one of the oldest buildings in the city. It was built around the 13th Century and was significantly reconstructed in the 2nd half of the 14th Century. It is now a Gothic style church with 3 naves, and it has retained some of its original Romanesque features. The most striking aspect of St Mark’s Church is its roof, which has been tiled in a mosaic fashion with the coat of arms of Zagreb on the right as well as the Triune Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia on the left. The tiling of the roof was added by in 1880 by Friedrich Schmidt and Herman Bollé. This church is located in the Upper Town of Zagreb.
Why visit St Mark’s Church Zagreb Croatia
St Mark’s Church has a very distinctive rooftop with its colourful tile pattern. This makes for great photos.
How long to spend at St Mark’s Church Zagreb Croatia
Ten minutes is plenty of time to see the outside of the church and take some photos. Please note that as at 2024 St Mark’s Square is closed, so you can only see St Mark’s Church at the other side of the police barricade.
Opening hours for St Mark’s Church Zagreb Croatia
St Mark’s Church can be seen at all hours, but only from the outside.
If you have money to spend in St Mark’s Church Zagreb Croatia
The Museum of Broken Relationships is just down the road from St Mark’s Square. Entry is 7 euro (as at 2024). There are also a few cafes, shops and restaurants nearby.
St Mark’s Zagreb Croatia Church address
Trg Sv. Marka 5, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX8F+HF Zagreb, Croatia
Scenic cemetery in Zagreb Croatia: Mirogoj Cemetery
About Mirogoj Cemetery Zagreb Croatia
Mirogoj Cemetery, also known as Mirogoj City Cemetery, is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe. It was designed by architect Hermann Bollé, the same architect that designed the rooftop of St Mark’s Church. The cemetery was established in 1876 and construction on the main building started in 1879. However funding issues led to delays and work on the cemetery wasn’t completed until 1929.
Mirogoj Cemetery is a city cemetery that houses the remains of people from all faiths. There are around 300,000 people buried in this Zagreb cemetery. Notable people buried in Miragoj cemetery include its architect Hermann Bollé along with prominent actors, musicians, writers, sportspeople, scientists and politicians. The cemetery also houses a number of memorials including the Monument to Fallen Croatian Soldiers in World War I (1919) as well as the Monument of the “Voice of Croatian Victims – Wall of Pain” (to Croatian victims of the Croatian War of Independence).
Why visit Mirogoj Cemetery Zagreb Croatia
Mirogoj Cemetery is one of Zagreb’s most impressive landmarks. It is a sprawling space which is one of the best known projects of renowned Austro-Hungarian architect Hermann Bollé. The main building with its green copper domes makes for incredible photographs. Be sure to wander the arcades and take time to marvel at the Gothic architecture. The cemetery is also filled with interesting sculptures and monuments. It is perfect for those that appreciate history as well as people looking for green space close to the city.
How long to spend at Mirogoj Cemetery Zagreb Croatia
We recommend spending an hour or two wandering around the grounds of the cemetery and taking in the stunning architecture, the history and the tranquillity.
Opening hours for Mirogoj Cemetery Zagreb Croatia
1 April-30 September: 6am-8pm
1 October-31 March: 7:30am-6pm
If you have money to spend in Mirogoj Cemetery Zagreb Croatia
Buy some flowers to honour the dead.
Mirogoj Cemetery Zagreb Croatia address
Aleja Hermanna Bollea 27, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RXPP+8R Zagreb, Croatia
Gothic cathedral in Zagreb Croatia: Cathedral of Zagreb
About Cathedral of Zagreb
Cathedral of Zagreb, also known as Zagreb Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and formerly known as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic cathedral in the heart of Zagreb. It was originally built in Gothic style in the 13th Century. The cathedral sustained significant damage in the 1880 Zagreb earthquake and was subsequently restored in Gothic Revival style by architect Hermann Bollé. Zagreb Cathedral has two spires which reach a height of 108 metres. However the tip of the southern spire fell off during the 2020 earthquake and is still under repair. Inside the cathedral is the Festival Organ of the Zagreb Cathedral, which is one of the 10 finest organs in the world.
Why visit Cathedral of Zagreb
Cathedral of Zagreb is an impressive Gothic cathedral and also the second tallest building in Croatia. Due to its stature, Zagreb Cathedral can be seen from many points around the city and it an iconic part of Zagreb’s skyline. It’s an iconic structure that has been depicted on the 1000 Kuna note (no longer in circulation). It’s definitely worth a visit when you’re in Zagreb to get a few photos of this building.
How long to spend at Cathedral of Zagreb
10 minutes is sufficient to admire the cathedral from outside and take a few photos. The cathedral is currently closed for repairs (as at 2024), so you can only look at it form the outside.
Opening hours for Cathedral of Zagreb
You can see the cathedral from the outside at any time of day. It is not possible to enter the building as it is under repair (as at 2024). It is best seen during the day.
If you have money to spend in Cathedral of Zagreb
We recommend shopping at the nearby Dolac Market. There are also plenty of great restaurants and cafes nearby.
Cathedral of Zagreb address
Kaptol ul. 31, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX7H+RW Zagreb, Croatia
Vibrant local market in Zagreb Croatia: Dolac Market
About Dolac Market
Dolac Market, also known as Tržnica Dolac in Croatian, is a farmers market in the heart of Zagreb Croatia. It has an open-air section that has rows of stalls covered with iconic red umbrellas. Below the open-air market is a covered section. This market is a great place to buy fresh produce as well as meat, fish, cream, cheese, dried fruit, pasta, bread, cakes and much more. It has been in operation since the 1930s.
Dolac market is conveniently located right next to Ban Josip Jelačić Square and has views of the nearby Zagreb Cathedral.
Why visit Dolac Market
One of the best free things to do in Zagreb Croatia is visit the Dolac Market. This vibrant local market is a great place to immerse yourself in the Croatian way of life. Here you can find the freshest and most delicious looking produce from the local area. The women selling the goods are known as kumice. Be sure to look out for the Statue Of Kumica Barica, which depicts a peasant market woman and overlooks the open-air section of the market. Even if you don’t want to spend a cent, it’s an interesting place to look around and soak up the atmosphere. It is particularly popular on Saturdays. Get there early for the freshest produce.
How long to spend at Dolac Market
Allow around 30 minutes to an hour to look around the market, take some photos and do some shopping.
Opening hours for Dolac Market
Monday-Friday: 6:30am-2pm
Saturday: 6:30am-3pm
Sunday: 6:30am-1pm
If you have money to spend in Dolac Market
Dolac Market is the perfect place to buy fresh local produce. We bought some cakes from the undercover section of the market which were absolutely delicious. Other popular items at Dolac Market include cornbread and local cheese.
Dolac Market address
Dolac 9, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX7G+MV Zagreb, Croatia
Main square in Zagreb Croatia: Ban Josip Jelačić Square
About Ban Josip Jelačić Square
Ban Josip Jelačić Square, also known as Trg bana Jelačića or colloquially Jelačić plac in Croatian, is the largest square in Zagreb. Located in the heart of the city, it is an expansive space and features landmarks such as Ban Josip Jelačić Statue and Manduševac fountain. The square is surrounded by shops, cafes and restaurants and is a popular location for events. It is easily accessible by tram and lies in Zagreb’s pedestrian zone.
Ban Josip Jelačić Square was established in 1641 and was originally called Harmica. During the communist era is was named Republic Square and it received its current name in 1990.
Why visit Ban Josip Jelačić Square
Ban Josip Jelačić Square is the epicentre of Zagreb, and one of the most important landmarks in the city. The square is close to some of the best sites in the city, including Dolac Market and Zagreb Cathedral. It is a pretty square surrounded by pretty buildings. Additionally, Ban Josip Jelačić Square is a hub for events and a popular gathering place in Zagreb.
How long to spend at Ban Josip Jelačić Square
While you can walk around the square in 5 minutes, we recommend devoting at least half an hour to enjoying the square as well as participating in any events that might be happening in the square. Given that Ban Josip Jelačić Square is in the heart the city, it is highly likely that you will pass through the square several times during your stay in Zagreb.
Opening hours for Ban Josip Jelačić Square
The square is open at all hours. However it is best seen during the day.
If you have money to spend in Ban Josip Jelačić Square
Dolac Market is just next door and is a great place to shop for fresh local food. There are also plenty of great restaurants, cafes and shops nearby.
Ban Josip Jelačić Square
Trg bana Josipa Jelačića 5-4, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Statue of military leader in Zagreb Croatia: Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
About Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
Ban Josip Jelačić, also known as Count Josip Jelačić von Bužim, was a Croatian politician and soldier. He held the office of Ban of Croatia from 1848 to 1859. The Ban of Croatia was a leader that ruled as the King’s representative and was ranked just below King. He was also a decorated army general. Ban Josip Jelačić is one of the most important figures in Croatian history. He led Habsburg forces against the revolutionary Hungarian government and also abolished the feudal system and serfdom in Croatia. While he is considered a national hero in Croatia, he is also seen as a traitor to the Hungarian revolution for independence in Hungary.
Ban Josip Jelačić Statue was created in 1866 by German-Austrian sculptor Anton Dominik Fernkorn. It depicts Ban Josip Jelačić riding a horse with his sword raised. The horse has its right front leg lifted. The monument takes pride of place in the middle of Ban Josip Jelačić Square. The statue was removed in 1947 during Croatia’s communist era and was reinstalled in 1990. It originally faced north towards Hungary, but now faces south.
Why visit Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
Ban Josip Jelačić Statue is an impressive statue that dominates Ban Josip Jelačić Square. The statue is also one of the most important landmarks in Zagreb. It depicts a prominent figure in Croatia’s history. It is worth a visit to get an appreciation of Croatia’s history and for some great photos.
How long to spend at Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
5 minutes is enough time to look at the statue and take a few photos.
Opening hours for Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
The statue is open at all hours. However it is best seen during the day.
If you have money to spend in Ban Josip Jelačić Statue
Go shopping at the nearby Dolac Market. There are also plenty of great restaurants, cafes and shops nearby.
Ban Josip Jelačić Statue address
Trg bana Josipa Jelačića, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX7G+7W Zagreb, Croatia
Oldest public park in Zagreb Croatia: Park Maksimir
About Park Maksimir
Opened in 1794, Park Maksimir is the first public park in southeast Europe and one of the oldest public parks in the work. The park spans over 18 hectares, which gives you plenty of space to explore. Additionally the park contains Zagreb Zoo as well as woods, creeks, lakes, walking tracks monuments and pavilions. It is also filled with wildlife and is a great place for bird watching. Park Maksimir is a great location for a picnic and there are also a couple of cafe bars within the park.
Why visit Park Maksimir
Park Maksimir is a peaceful oasis and the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Extending over 18 hectares, there’s lots of different areas to explore. It’s perfect for picnics, exercise and leisure activities. The park is also a very scenic spot to enjoy nature. In addition, Zagreb Zoo is in the middle of the park and contains a good selection of animals.
How long to spend at Park Maksimir
Allow at least a few hours to explore Park Maksimir. If you’re in Zagreb for a longer stay you could easily return to this park several times as there are so many lovely areas to explore.
Opening hours for Park Maksimir
Park Maksimir is open at all hours. However it is best seen during the day.
If you have money to spend in Park Maksimir
There are a couple of cafe bars in Park Maksimir. You could also visit Zagreb Zoo – entry is 4 euro for adults (price as at 2024).
Park Maksimir address
Maksimirski perivoj 1, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: R2F9+P3 Zagreb, Croatia
Public park in Zagreb Croatia: Zrinjevac Park
About Zrinjevac Park
Zrinjevac Park, also known as Trg Nikole Šubića Zrinskog in Croatian, is a pretty park in Zagreb Lower Town, a short walk from Ban Josip Jelačić Square. This is a peaceful green space that is beautifully landscaped and is often filled with colourful flowers. Features of the park include a picturesque music pavilion built in 1891, a meteorological post from 1884 as well as Zagreb’s oldest fountain which is known as The Mushroom and was designed by Herman Bollé. The park is a great place for a stroll and is often host to festivals and events.
Zrinjevac Park is part of Lenuci Horseshoe, also known as the Green Horseshoe, which is a series of seven parks and city squares in the city centre of Zagreb.
Why visit Zrinjevac Park
Zrinjevac Park is a beautiful green space in the centre of Zagreb. It’s a great place to come and relax. The park also contains a number of interesting features which date back to the 19th Century such as the bandstand, weather station and Zagreb’s first fountain.
How long to spend at Zrinjevac Park
While you can walk from one end of Zrinjevac Park to the other in 5 minutes, we recommend devoting at least half an hour to admiring the park, enjoying the beautiful setting as well as participating in any events that might be happening here.
Opening hours for Zrinjevac Park
Zrinjevac Park is open at all hours. We generally recommend visiting during the day, however during Christmas it has some lovely night markets and is beautifully illuminated with Christmas lights.
If you have money to spend near Zrinjevac Park
There are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. There are sometimes also stalls in the park, such as for the Christmas markets.
Zrinjevac Park address
Zrinjevac 1, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX6H+G4 Zagreb, Croatia
City Centre of Zagreb Croatia: Lower Town (Donji Grad)
About Donji Grad
Zagreb Lower Town, also known as Zagreb Centar or Donji Grad in Croatian, is the commercial centre of Zagreb. It is also home to many of Zagreb’s museums and parks as well as plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes. The Lower Town is located just below the Upper Town, which it is connected to via the Zagreb funicular. It is one of Zagreb’s 17 districts.
Why visit Donji Grad
The Lower Town is a vibrant and busy neighbourhood that contains many important landmarks in Zagreb. This Zagreb neighbourhood has plenty to see and do including parks, museums and beautiful Austro-Hungarian architecture. It is a must visit in Zagreb.
How long to spend at Donji Grad
Allow at least a few hours to explore the Lower Town. Given this is such an important district in Zagreb, you could easily return to the Lower Town multiple times throughout your stay in Zagreb.
Opening hours for Donji Grad
The Lower Town is open at all hours. It can be enjoyed both during the day as well as at night.
If you have money to spend in Donji Grad
Visit some museums, dine at some of the restaurants and cafes and shop until you drop!
Donji Grad address
Donji Grad-Centar, Ul. kralja Zvonimira 1, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX6M+QF Zagreb, Croatia
World War 2 tunnel in Zagreb Croatia: Tunel Grič
About Tunel Grič Zagreb Croatia
Grič Tunnel, also known as Tunel Grič in Croatian, is a 350 metre (1,150 foot) tunnel located in the Grič neighbourhood of Zagreb Croatia. It was built during World War 2 as a bomb shelter as well as a promenade. The tunnel is between 3.2 and 5.5 metres wide, has 6 entrances and runs under the Upper Town. It lay abandoned for many years before being used for underground raves in the 1990s and then opened to the public in 2016. The space has been used for events and cultural exhibitions and there are plans for a museum and a lift. There are two public toilets in Grič Tunnel, near the entrances.
Why visit Tunel Grič Zagreb Croatia
Tunel Grič is a unique piece of Zagreb’s history. It’s an interesting space to walk through.
How long to spend at Tunel Grič Zagreb Croatia
It takes 5 minutes to walk from one end of Tunel Grič to the other, however we recommend allowing 20-30 minutes to explore the tunnel.
Opening hours for Tunel Grič Zagreb Croatia
Daily: 9am-9pm.
If you have money to spend in Tunel Grič Zagreb Croatia
There are a number of cafes and restaurants nearby.
Tunel Grič Zagreb Croatia address
Mesnička ul., 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX7C+X9 Zagreb, Croatia
Botanical garden in Zagreb Croatia: Zagreb Botanical Garden
About Zagreb Botanical Garden
Zagreb Botanical Garden, also known as Botanical Garden of the Faculty of Science University of Zagreb, is a botanic garden that is part of the Faculty of Science of the University of Zagreb. Founded in 1889 by Professor Antun Heinz, it covers an area of 5 hectares in Zagreb Lower Town. It is a peaceful green space that is home to 10,000 plant species from around the world, including native Croatian flora. The garden has beautiful walking paths, artificial lakes and 14 greenhouses. It also has an arboretum in the style of the English landscape garden.
Zagreb Botanic Garden is part of Lenuci Horseshoe, also known as the Green Horseshoe, which is a series of seven parks and city squares in the city centre of Zagreb.
Why visit Zagreb Botanical Garden
Zagreb Botanic Garden is a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. It’s a tranquil space that is known for its wide variety of plants. It’s a beautiful area to take a stroll and enjoy nature.
How long to spend at Zagreb Botanical Garden
Allow a few hours to enjoy Zagreb Botanical Garden.
Opening hours for Zagreb Botanical Garden
Zagreb Botanical Garden is open from Spring until Autumn:
Monday-Tuesday: 9am-2:30pm
Wednesday-Sunday: 9am-7pm
If you have money to spend in Zagreb Botanical Garden
Please note that Zagreb Botanical Garden is only free on Mondays and Tuesdays during the school year. This is generally until mid-June and then from the 2nd week of September. At other times entry is 2 euro for adults (price as at 2024). Zagreb Botanical Garden also accepts donations.
Zagreb Botanical Garden address
Trg Marka Marulića 9A, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX3C+XV Zagreb, Croatia
Artificial lake in Croatia: Jarun Lake
About Jarun Lake
Jarun Lake, also known as Zagreb Sea, is an artificial lake on the outskirts of Zagreb. The lake and its surrounding park is Jarun sports and leisure center. This was created for the 1987 Summer Universiade. It’s a peaceful refuge for locals to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy this wide open space. It’s popular for boating and swimming and there is a lovely 5.5 km long cycle path that surrounds the lake. During the summer, the nightclub Klub Aquarius operates on the banks of the lake. There’s also the Walk of Fame alongside the lake, which has displays commemorating Croatian athletes. Additionally, there is a naturalist beach (also known as an FKK beach) on the southern end of the lake.
Jarun Lake is easily accessible from Zagreb city centre by tram or by car.
Why visit Jarun Lake
Jarun Lake is a peaceful oasis in Zagreb. It is perfect for water sports like swimming, boating and windsurfing. There are also beaches on the banks of the lake, where you can relax and soak up the sun. Jarun sports and leisure center is suitable for a wide variety of sport and recreation activities and is also a popular location for events. Additionally, you can enjoy a drink or a meal at one of the many eateries surrounding the lake.
How long to spend at Jarun Lake
Jarun Lake is the perfect place to spend a few hours or even a day.
Opening hours for Jarun Lake
Jarun Lake is open at all hours. It’s beautiful during the day, and there is also sometimes a nightclub there at night.
If you have money to spend in Jarun Lake
There are restaurants and cafes overlooking the lake. Paid parking is available on-site.
Jarun Lake address
10110, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: QWJF+58, 10110, Zagreb, Croatia
Public square in Zagreb Croatia: King Tomislav Square
About King Tomislav Square
King Tomislav Square, also known as Trg Kralja Tomislava in Croatian, is a beautifully manicured public square overlooking Zagreb Glavni Kolod Train Station (Zagreb main train station). It’s named after the first King of Croatia, Tomislav of Croatia, who reigned from 925-928 CE and is considered the founder of a medieval Croatian state. This square was dedicated to the King in 1927. There is an equestrian statue of King Tomislav in the centre of the square. This monumental statue was made by Croatian sculptor Robert Frangeš-Mihanović between 1928 and 1938 and installed in the square in 1947. The square also has a fountain, an art pavilion (currently closed as at 2024 due to damage sustained in an earthquake), paved areas, benches, flowerbeds and lawns. It’s a popular event space in Zagreb Lower Town.
King Tomislav Square is part of Lenuci Horseshoe, also known as the Green Horseshoe, which is a series of seven parks and city squares in the city centre of Zagreb.
Why visit King Tomislav Square
King Tomislav Square is a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. It is surrounded by gorgeous old buildings and the square itself has a number of interesting features including King Tomislav Statue, Fontana kralja Tomislava and a 19th Century art pavilion (currently closed as at 2024). It’s clean and spacious and is a great place to come to relax. Additionally, there are often events in the square such as nighttime concerns and the Christmas night market. During winter there is often an ice skating rink in the square. King Tomislav Square is a vibrant space with a great atmosphere and we highly recommend visiting here when you’re in Zagreb.
How long to spend at King Tomislav Square
While you can walk from one end of the square to the other in 5 minutes, we recommend devoting at least half an hour to enjoying the square as well as participating in any events that might be happening here.
Opening hours for King Tomislav Square
King Tomislav Square is open at all hours. It is very scenic during the day and at night there are often lively events in the square.
If you have money to spend in King Tomislav Square
There are sometimes markets in the square and during winter there is an ice skating rink. Additionally, there are some great restaurants, cafes and shops surrounding the square.
King Tomislav Square address
Trg Kralja Tomislava 10, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX4H+JF Zagreb, Croatia
Best views in Zagreb Croatia: Strossmayer Promenade Zagreb Croatia
About Strossmayer Promenade Zagreb Croatia
Strossmayer Promenade, also known as Zagreb Stross, is a scenic walking area in the Upper Town of Zagreb. It offers panoramic views of the Lower Town as well as the broader area. The walkway follows along the ruins of Zagreb’s medieval defensive walls. It is a leafy space, shaded by chestnut trees. At night there are lanterns that light your way. There are also benches along the promenade for you to stop at on the way. Additionally, Strossmayer Promenade sometimes plays host to festivals and events.
Strossmayer Promenade was established in the 19th Century and is named after bishop and politician Josip Juraj Strossmayer.
Why visit Strossmayer Promenade Zagreb Croatia
Strossmayer Promenade offers some of the best views in Zagreb. It’s a peaceful area for a relaxing stroll and is a romantic spot to take your significant other.
How long to spend at Strossmayer Promenade Zagreb Croatia
It takes about 5 minutes to walk from one end of Strossmayer Promenade to the other. However we recommend allowing 30 minutes to enjoy the area, take photos and admire the panoramic views.
Opening hours for Strossmayer Promenade Zagreb Croatia
Strossmayer Promenade is open at all hours. We recommend visiting during the day, but it is also lovely in the evening.
If you have money to spend in Strossmayer Promenade Zagreb Croatia
There are sometimes markets and food stalls on Strossmayer Promenade. It is also only a short walk from the quirky museum the Museum of Broken Relationships. Entry to the museum is 7 euro (as at 2024). Additionally, there are cafes, restaurants and shops nearby.
Strossmayer Promenade Zagreb Croatia address
Strossmayerovo šetalište 16-99, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Plus Code: RX7F+Q3 Zagreb, Croatia
Car hire in Zagreb Croatia
Localrent.com is ideal for hiring a car in Croatia, offering competitive rates and personalised service. The user-friendly platform connects you with local providers, featuring a wide range of vehicles to suit any trip. With transparent pricing, detailed rental info, and responsive customer support, booking is a breeze. Renting a car through Localrent.com gives you the freedom to explore Croatia’s historic cities, stunning coastlines, and scenic countryside at your own pace.
Where to stay in Zagreb Croatia?
We recommend the following accommodation in Zagreb:
- Best hostel in Zagreb – Hostel Mali Mrak is a relaxed hostel with a kind host and a creative and friendly atmosphere. It is outside the city centre but easily accessible by tram, so you can explore the sights and attractions of the city. Additionally, it’s cosy, comfortable and clean.
- Best budget hotel in Zagreb – Hotel Jarun is a comfortable hotel near Jarun Lake, where you can enjoy nature and water activities. It’s also a tram-ride away from the city centre. The staff are friendly and polite. The beds are comfortable and the breakfasts are delicious.
- Best mid-range hotel in Zagreb – Livris Hotel is a quirky modern hotel with clean and comfortable rooms. It’s located in a quiet neighbourhood close to the main bus station. Breakfasts are delicious and the staff are friendly and helpful. Smoking is allowed on the balconies.
- Best luxury hotel in Zagreb – Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is a beautiful Art Noveau hotel that exudes elegance and style. The hotel has been totally renovated whilst preserving the original glamour, which gives it a unique and charming character. It was first opened in 1925 to host passengers from the Orient Express, and the history of the hotel remains evident. The staff are exceptional and the breakfasts are delicious.
- Best aparthotel in Zagreb – Hotel Republika offers elegant and modern accommodation in a tranquil location. The staff are amazing and helpful, and they will take care of your every need. Their buffet breakfasts have a good selection, and they will cater to your preferences and diet. It is 15-20 minutes walk or a short drive from the city centre.
Zagreb Croatia Blogs
You can find our Zagreb Croatia travel blogs below.
Croatia Blogs
You can find our Croatia travel blogs below.
16 Best FREE Things To Do in Dubrovnik Croatia (with map)
11 Best FREE Things To Do in Korčula Croatia (with map)
12 Best FREE Things To Do in Hvar Croatia (with map)
21 Best FREE Things To Do in Split Croatia (with map)
18 Best FREE Things To Do in Zadar Croatia (with map)
16 Best FREE Things To Do in Zagreb Croatia (with map)
Dubrovnik Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Korčula Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Hvar Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Split Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Zadar Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Zagreb Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know
Affiliate Links
This website contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission on any purchases at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us continue our travels and make more travel blogs and travel videos, thank you!
