Dolac Market Zagreb Croatia, open air fruit amd vegetable market Croatia

It can be easy to overlook Croatia’s capital for more glamorous destinations along the coast of Croatia. However Zagreb has much to offer. Boasting the most museums per capita in the world, Zagreb has quirky offerings such as the Museum of Broken Relationships. Spend your time sipping coffee in one of the many cafes and restaurants throughout the city. Explore the vibrant outdoor markets. Take a funicular to the top of the Old Town for panoramic views across the city. There’s so much to see and do in the city. Moreover, Zagreb is a very affordable European city with great public transport and a very walkable city centre. It has plenty of attractions without feeling overly touristy. Zagreb is also a popular digital nomad destination, with one year digital nomad visas available in Croatia. This Zagreb destination guide has everything you need to plan the perfect trip to Zagreb Croatia.

Short on time? Here are our Zagreb Croatia top recommendations:

Highlights: enjoy a meal on Tkalčićeva Street, explore the fascinating Upper Town and discover Zagreb’s wide array of museums.

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.

What is Zagreb famous for?

Croatia’s capital is known for having the most museums per capita in the world. Zagreb’s museums include quirky offerings like the Museum of Broken Relationships and the Zagreb 80’s Museum as well as more traditional museums. Additionally, Zagreb is known for its vibrant open air markets, it’s medieval architecture and its delicious cuisine.

Why you should visit Zagreb Croatia

Fountain at Art Pavilion in Zagreb Croatia
Fountain at Art Pavilion in Zagreb Croatia

Many visitors to Croatia pass through Zagreb on their way to the Croatian coast. However rather than just making this a transit stop, we recommend taking time to discover what the city has to offer.

For foodies, Zagreb is paradise. The city has an abundance of amazing cafes as well as world-class restaurants on offer. This ranges from Michelin star gourmet establishments to authentic local diners. Al fresco dining is very popular in Croatia and they also have a well established coffee culture. Be sure to try local specialties like Zagorski štrukli as well as Zagrebački odrezak while you’re there. Also don’t forget to take the time to visit one of the many local farmer’s markets.

Zagreb’s city centre is a great place to explore. It is easy to walk around and the city also has an extensive tram network. There is an abundance of interesting museums including the Zagreb 80’s Museum as well as the Museum of Illusions. Distinctive buildings such as St Mark’s Church provide plenty of great photo opportunities. There are also a number of lovely parks and squares around the city, These are the perfect place to relax and do some people watching. For nature lovers, Zagreb als has the expansive Jarun Lake area. Furthermore, Zagreb is a convenient base for a day trip to the scenic Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Zagreb Destination Guide: Know before you go

Basic info about Zagreb Croatia

  • Language – Standard Croatian. English is widely spoken, but not everyone you meet will be able to speak English.
  • Currency – euro (EUR). This has been the official currency of Croatia since 1 January 2023. Prior to 2023, the currency of Croatia was the Croatian Kuna (HKR). Currency exchanges can be found in most cities and ATMs are also available widely throughout the country.
  • Population – 806,000 (2019)
  • Area – 641 km2 (247 sq mi)
  • County – Zagreb. Zagreb is the administrative centre of this county.
  • Region – Croatia Proper
  • Emergency number – 112
  • Police number – 192
Croatian Kuna, currency of Croatia until 2022
Croatian Kuna, currency of Croatia until 2022

Utilities in Zagreb Croatia

  • Electricity – Croatia uses Types C and F power plugs. The country operates on a 230v supply voltage at 50Hz. Power outages are not common in Croatia and typically do not last for long.
  • Water – the tap water in Croatia is safe to drink almost everywhere in the country.
  • Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets are the most common type of toilet in Croatia. You can flush your toilet paper directly into the bin. Public toilets are common in the larger cities in Croatia. Public toilets along the coast often have a charge for use. This can range anywhere from 25 cents to 1 euro. We have found toilets in shopping centres that are free to use.
  • Telephone country code: +385

Where is Zagreb Croatia?

Woman looking out over Panoramic View-Point of Zagreb City Croatia
Panoramic View-Point of Zagreb City Croatia

Zagreb is in the county of Zagreb in the Croatia Proper region of Croatia. It is the capital of Croatia and also the largest city in the country.

The closest major Croatian cities to Zagreb are Rijeka, Zadar and Split. Zagreb is 3 hours by bus from Rijekka, 3.5 hours by bus from Zadar and 5-7 hours by bus from Split. Zagreb is less than an hour drive from the border with Slovenia.

How to get to Zagreb Croatia

Zagreb destination guide: Arriving by land

Zagreb Croatia intercity land transport

Croatia Border Crossing, man wearing mask in front of Croatian border
Croatia Border Crossing

The main transport options for travelling overland to Zagreb Croatia are:

  • Private vehicle
  • Private transport operator
  • Shuttle Bus – Pleso Prijevoz operates a shuttle bus service between Zagreb Airport and the Zagreb bus terminal. A one way ticket costs 8 euro (prices as at 2024). The journey time is 35-40 minutes. For more information see this website: https://plesoprijevoz.hr/en/zagreb-croatia/
  • Train
  • Bus
  • Bike
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Driving to Zagreb from within Croatia

If you are driving to Zagreb from within Croatia, here are the travel times and distances:

  • Plitvice Lakes National Park – 1 hour 50 minutes (130km, 81miles) with tolls or 2 hours 15 minutes (132km, 82miles) without tolls
  • Rijeka – 1 hour 57 minutes (167km, 104miles) with tolls or 3 hours 27 minutes (193km, 120miles) without tolls
  • Osijek – 2 hours 45 minutes (282km, 175miles) with tolls or 4 hours 3 minutes (272km, 169miles) without tolls
  • Zadar – 2 hours 55 minutes (288km, 179miles) with tolls or 4 hours 32 minutes (285km, 177miles) without tolls
  • Split – 3 hours 49 minutes (410km, 255miles) with tolls or 5 hours 29 minutes (358km, 222miles) without tolls
  • Dubrovnik – 6 hours 5 minutes (601km, 373miles) with tolls or 8 hours 40 minutes (561km, 349miles) without tolls

Intercity trains to Zagreb Croatia

Croatia has a train network which connects most major cities in the country other than Dubrovnik. However the train system along the coast is limited. Furthermore trains in Croatia are generally slower, less frequent and also less reliable than buses.

Zagreb has 3 train stations. The Zagreb Main Train Station is also known as Glavni kolodvor. It is the biggest train station in Croatia and serves as the main hub for the city. It is located 1km (0.6miles) south of the city centre. Additionally, the secondary train station in Zagreb is Zagreb West Station, also known as Zapadni kolodvor. Finally the smallest train station in Zagreb is Zagreb Klara Station.

Daytime trains between Zagreb and Split take 6.5 hours and conversely the overnight trains take 8.5 hours. The number of trains per day vary depending on the season.

The Croatian national railway company is called Croatian Railways.

Intercity buses to Zagreb Croatia

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A common way to get around Croatia is by using intercity buses. These are a budget friendly alternative to trains and the network is extensive. Intercity bus companies in Croatia include Arriva – Autotrans, Slavonija Bus, Čagalj Tours as well as FlixBus. Popular bus destinations from Zagreb include:

  • Split Croatia – travel time 5-7 hours. Tickets start from 12 euro one way.
  • Zadar Croatia – travel time 3.5-4.5 hours. Tickets start from 10 euro one way.
  • Dubrovnik Croatia – travel time 9.5-10.5 hours. Tickets start from 18 euro one way.
  • Munich Germany – travel time 8-9.5 hours. Tickets start from 30 euro one way.
  • Vienna Austria – travel time 5-6 hours. Tickets start from 21 euro one way.
  • Budapest Hungary – travel time 4.5-5 hours. Tickets start from 21 euro one way.
  • Ljubljana Slovenia – travel time 2.5-3 hours. Tickets start from 18 euro one way.
FlixBus at Croatia Border Crossing, green bus
FlixBus at Croatia Border Crossing

Zagreb destination guide: Arriving by air

The nearest major airport to Zagreb is Zagreb Airport (Airport code ZAG). This international airport is also known as Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport. It is 11km (7 miles) from the city.

Other nearby airports include:

  • Maribor Edvard Rusjan Airport (Airport code MBX). This airport is 77km (48miles) away.
  • Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport Slovenia (Airport code LJU). This airport is 126km (78miles) away
  • Rijeka Airport (Airport code RJK). This airport is 128km (80miles) away.

The national airline of Croatia is Croatia Airlines.

Zagreb destination guide: Arriving by boat

Zagreb is an inland city. The closest port is the Port of Rijeka. The river Sara flows through the south of the city, however it is not possible to reach Zagreb by boat.

Zagreb destination guide: How to get around Zagreb Croatia

Walking in Zagreb Croatia

Tram Zagreb Croatia
Tram Zagreb Croatia

By far the easiest and also the cheapest way to get around Zagreb is to walk. Furthermore, most of the main attractions in the city area are within walking distance.

Funiculars in Zagreb Croatia

The Zagreb Funicular provides access between the Upper Town of Zagreb and downtown. Furthermore, at 66m in length, it is one of the shortest public transport funiculars in the world. A one-way ticket costs 0.66 euro for adults (as at 2024).

Funicular - Downtown Zagreb Croatia
Funicular – Downtown Zagreb Croatia

Local buses in Zagreb Croatia

Local buses service Zagreb. These services are operated by the city’s public transport service, ZET. For more information, see this website: https://www.zet.hr/en

Trams in Zagreb Croatia

Inside of Tram from Zagreb to Jarun Lake Zagreb Croatia
Tram from Zagreb to Jarun Lake Zagreb Croatia

Trams service Zagreb. These services are operated by the city’s public transport service, ZET. For more information, see this website: https://www.zet.hr/en

Local trains in Zagreb Croatia

Local trains service Zagreb. These services are operated by Croatian Railways. Currently there is one train line in Zagreb with 19 stations.

Metro trains (subway or underground) in Zagreb Croatia

Zagreb currently does not have a metro system.

Vehicle hire in Zagreb Croatia

Bike Share Zagreb Croatia
Bike Share Zagreb Croatia

A wide variety of vehicles can be rented in Croatia. This includes:

  • Bicycles – There are self-service bike share services available in the city from companies such as NextBike. Alternatively you can hire a bike from a bike hire shop such as Rent a bike in Zagreb Croatia.
  • Electric scooters
  • Motorcycles
  • Cars
  • SUVs
  • Campervans
  • Boats

In Croatia they drive on the right side of the road.

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.

Taxis in Croatia

Taxis are common in Croatia. Additionally, fares are regulated and are usually metered. However outside of major cities taxis may not have meters. In this case the fare will be a fixed price. However in general your fare will include the following costs:

  • The pickup fee or minimum fee – this is charged as soon as you get into the vehicle.
  • Price per kilometre
  • Price per hour – this is a price that gets charged when the taxi is stuck in heavy traffic.

Taxi tariffs in Croatia are set by the cities or districts.

Ride-share services in Zagreb Croatia

There are a number of rideshare services operating in Zagreb Croatia. These include Uber, Bolt as well as CarpoolWorld.

Zagreb destination guide: Is Zagreb worth visiting?

Whilst many travellers overlook Zagreb in favour of the islands and coastal cities in Croatia, Zagreb has a lot to offer and is certainly worth visiting. From interesting and varied museums to its stunning architecture and delicious food, Zagreb has plenty to see and do. It is a relaxed city with a great public transport system and is certainly more budget friendly than the more touristy parts of Croatia. We recommend taking the time to explore the city and discover it for yourself.

Zagreb destination guide: How long to spend in Zagreb Croatia

Zagreb is a great place to come for a couple of days or even more. It is a scenic capital city with great food as well as a wide variety of museums and other attractions. Additionally, it has the highest number of museums per capita in the world! We spent 1 week in Zagreb and enjoyed taking time to enjoy the various activities available in this vibrant city.

Zagreb City Tour Bus Croatia
Zagreb City Tour Bus Croatia

Zagreb destination guide: What to do in Zagreb Croatia

The beautiful Croatian capital Zagreb has many activities on offer. It has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.

Zagreb destination guide: Free things to do in Zagreb Croatia

Man walking at Jarun Lake Zagreb Croatia
Jarun Lake Zagreb Croatia

There are enough free activities in Zagreb Croatia to keep you entertained for a weekend or even a leisurely week:

For more details, see our Zagreb travel guide on the 16 Best Free Things To Do in Zagreb Croatia.

Zagreb destination guide: Paid activities in Zagreb Croatia

A number of attractions in Zagreb Croatia charge an entry fee:

  • Museum of Broken Relationships – entry fee is 7 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Museum of Illusions – entry fee is 9 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Croatian Museum of Naïve Art – entry fee is 5.50 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Lotrščak Tower – entry fee is 3 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Zagreb 80’s Museum – entry fee is 5.50 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Zagreb Funicular – one way ticket is 0.66 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Medvednica Mountain – prices start from 5 euro for adults (as at 2024). For a full price list, see this website.
  • Zagreb Zoo – entry fee is 4 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • Mimara Museum – temporarily closed since the 2020 earthquake (still closed as at 2024).
  • Zagreb 360 Observation Deck – (currently closed as at May 2024).
Woman standing in front of Croatian Society of Fine Artists Zagreb Croatia, statues
Croatian Society of Fine Artists Zagreb Croatia

Zagreb Card

The Zagreb Card is a city card that gives you free entry to a number of museums and the zoo as well as free public transport. Additionally, it allows you to explore many of the shops and attractions in Zagreb for a discounted price. There are two types of Zagreb Card available:

  • 24 hour Zagreb Card – the price for this is 20 euro for adults (as at 2024).
  • 72 hour Zagreb Card – the price for this is 26 euro for adults (as at 2024).

For more information, see this website.

Weather in Zagreb Croatia

Monument of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Zagreb Croatia
Monument of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Zagreb Croatia

Zagreb has warm summers and also very cold winters. The average temperature ranges between -2°C and 4°C in the coldest month of January. Summers last from June to September and are hot and sunny, with the average temperature range between 16°C and 27°C in the hottest month of July. Furthermore, Zagreb is a windy city and experiences frequent and sometimes powerful winds. Snow occurs from November to February. The month with the most rainfall is June with 10.0 days of rain on average and conversely the driest month is January with an average of 6.0 rainy days.

Best time to visit Zagreb Croatia

The best time to visit Zagreb is between late May and mid September, when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. The peak tourist season is between June and August, so expect higher prices at that time.

Internet and mobile phones in Croatia

Since June 15th, 2017, Roam Like at Home (RLAT) rules came into force for European Union countries. As such, people with European Union mobile numbers are no longer charged temporary mobile roaming fees if they travel within the European Union. This means that if you have a European Union mobile number, you can use that number anywhere within the European Union and you will be charged for calls, texts and data in the same rates as if you were in your home country. There are limits to this in order to prevent abuse of these rules.

The main internet and phone companies in Croatia include Croatian Telecom (Hrvatski Telekom), A1, Telemach, Bonbon as well as Tomato.

5G has been in Croatia since October 2020. 3G is expected to be switched off in Croatia in early 2025.

Croatia is ranked 21st fastest in the world for mobile internet speeds and 78th fastest for fixed broadband. For Fixed Broadband the average download speed is 71mbps and upload is 29mbps (as at May 2024).

Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in many places throughout Croatia. These include phone stores, some supermarkets, newspaper kiosks as well as online.

How much to budget for Zagreb Croatia?

Is Zagreb expensive?

No, Zagreb is a relatively affordable city to visit. Accommodation costs are quite reasonable, its easy to get around by walking or taking public transport and there are plenty of free or cheap activities available.

Zagreb destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Zagreb Croatia

Gostionica Ficlek Restaurant Zagreb Croatia
Gostionica Ficlek Restaurant Zagreb Croatia

As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:

  • Low-budget daily spend – 100 euro per day for a couple will get you budget accommodation, self catering and bakery meals, walking or catching local transport to get around the city and also free or cheap activities.
  • Mid-range daily spend – 300 euro per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, walking or catching local transport to get around the city, dining at reasonably priced cafes and restaurants as well as some paid activities.
  • Luxury spend – 1000 euro per day for a couple will get you a premium experience, staying at high end hotels, travelling by private transport, doing a range paid activities and also eating at high end restaurants.

Zagreb destination guide: Accommodation in Zagreb Croatia

Airbnb Zagreb Croatia
Airbnb Zagreb Croatia

There is a good range of accommodation to suit most budgets in Zagreb Croatia. Airbnb operates in Croatia and we were impressed with the range of options available in Zagreb.

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.

How much is accommodation in Zagreb Croatia?

For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:

  • Budget accommodation – 9-20 euro for a dorm
  • Mid-range accommodation – 40-100 euro for a private room
  • Luxury accommodation – 100-150 euro a night for a luxury hotel
  • Rental property – 50-300 euro a night for a fully furnished 3-4 bedroom home

Zagreb destination guide: Food in Zagreb Croatia

Odrezak Pork Cutlet from Bistro Vještica Zagreb Croatia
Odrezak Pork Cutlet from Bistro Vještica Zagreb Croatia

How much does food cost in Zagreb Croatia?

Our price guide for your food budget in Zagreb Croatia is as follows (prices as at 2022):

  • Restaurant meal – 10-25 euro for a main dish
  • Bakery food – burek 2-3 euro, cake 2-3 euro, 1-2 euro for loaf of bread, chocolate donut
  • Glass of wine – 4-6 euro
  • Coffee – 2-3 euro

Regional dishes in Zagreb Croatia

Sir Slani Kuhani Štrukli from La Štruk Zagreb Croatia, traditional Croatian food
Sir Slani Kuhani Štrukli from La Štruk Zagreb Croatia

  • Zagorski štrukli – dough that is filled with cottage cheese as well as sour cream that is either boiled or baked. It can be either sweet or savoury and additional fillings may also be included. It is listed as part of Croatia‘s intangible cultural heritage.
  • Zagrebački odrezak – also known as the Zagreb Schnitzel. It is similar to a cordon bleu. The dish is usually a piece of veal that is stuffed with ham and cheese, breaded and then pan fried.
  • Sir i vrhnje – cottage cheese and sour cream.
  • Ajngemahtec – chicken soup.
  • Abšmalcane mahune – a side dish of green beans, garlic, butter and breadcrumbs.
  • Cuspajz – meat and vegetable stew.
  • Purica i mlinci – turkey with a side dish called mlinci. Mlinci is a cross between pasta and unleavened flatbread.
  • Zagrebačka kremšnita – a cream slice which contains vanilla cream custard topped with a layer of whipped cream and then chocolate on top, all on a puff pastry base.
  • 505 s crtom – hard candy

Cheap Eats in Zagreb Croatia

Zagrebačka Kremšnite from Pan-Pek Bakery Zagreb Croatia, Croatian dessert
Zagrebačka Kremšnite from Pan-Pek Bakery Zagreb Croatia

  • Pekarnicas (Croatian bakeries) are a great place to get cheap and also delicious food. Burek is typically around 2-3 euro and a loaf of bread is around 1-2 euro. Other common food that can be found in pekarnicas include donuts and cakes.

Fine dining in Zagreb Croatia

Zagreb is home to a number of Michelin Guide restaurants.

1 star Michelin restaurants in Zagreb Croatia (2024):

  • Noel

Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants in Zagreb Croatia (2024):

  • Beštija
  • Tač
  • Izakaya

Michelin Plate restaurants in Zagreb Croatia (2024):

  • Tekka
  • ManO2
  • El Toro
  • Pod Zidom
  • Theatrium by Filho
  • Bistro Apetit by Marin Rendić
  • Boban
  • Le Bistro Esplanade
  • Zinfandel’s
  • Dubravkin Put
  • Gallo
  • Nav
  • Takenoko
  • Balon

Zagreb Croatia culture

Croatia national holidays

  • New Year’s Day – 1 January
  • Epiphany – 6 January
  • Easter Sunday – typically in March or April.
  • Easter Monday – the Monday after Easter Sunday, typically in March or April.
  • Labour Day – 1 May
  • Statehood Day – 30 May
  • Corpus Christi – 16 June
  • Anti-Fascist Struggle Day – 22 June
  • Victory Day – 5 August
  • Assumption of Mary – 15 August
  • All Saints’ Day – 1 November
  • Remembrance Day for the victims of the Homeland War and Remembrance Day for the victims of Vukovar and Škabrnja – 18 November
  • Christmas Day – 25 December
  • Saint Stephen’s Day – 26 December
Marko Marulic Statue Zagreb Croatia
Marko Marulic Statue Zagreb Croatia

National symbols of Croatia

  • Croatia flag – a tricolour flag featuring three horizontal bands coloured red, white and also blue from top to bottom. Additionally, in the middle of the flag, across the three bands, is the Croatia coat of arms
  • Croatia coat of arms – a red and white checkerboard on a main shield with a crown of five smaller shields. The five smaller shields represent the five different historical regions of Croatia. These five shields have symbols on them, but their background colours alternate between bleu celeste and azure.
  • National flower – iris
  • National bird – common nightingale
  • Croatia’s national animal – kuna zlatica (European pine marten)

Croatia pastimes

  • National dish – Istrian Yota
  • Popular drinks – Rakija, loza, Malvazija wine, Teran wine
  • National sport – football
  • Religion – 80% Catholic, 6% Eastern orthodox (as at 2019)

Famous people from Zagreb Croatia

  • Famous people born in Zagreb Croatia – peace activist Vesna Teršelič, politician Andrej Plenkovic, politician Zoran Milanović, singer Nikolija Jovanovic, opera singer Mathilde von Marlow, actress Mirela Brekalo, actress Mira Furlan, actress Oja Kodar, actress Dora Polić, actress Renata Ulmanski
  • Sports stars from Zagreb Croatia – tennis player Borna Coric, footballer Niko Kranjčar, tennis player Iva Majoli, Olympic discus thrower Sandra Perković, tennis player Ajla Tomljanović, Olympic ski racer Janica Kostelić

Is Zagreb Croatia Safe?

Croatia travel guide: Safety in Croatia

We travelled through Croatia for two months and found the country to be extremely safe. Croatia ranks 14th safest country on the Global Peace Index (as at 2023). As with any country, there are good areas and bad areas. Watch out for pickpockets particularly at crowded tourist attractions in Dubrovnik, Split and Zagreb as well as in National Parks. Make sure no-one is watching whenever you are entering pin codes and never lose sight of your credit card when making a purchase. Take care in nightclubs and don’t accept free drinks as drink spiking is a particular risk.

If you are planning to explore more remote areas, beware that there may still be unexploded landmines from the Croatian War of Independence.

Croatia travel guide: General safety considerations in Croatia

Other general safety considerations for travel in Croatia:

  • Drinking water – Tap water is safe to drink almost everywhere in the country.
  • Mosquitoes – the tiger mosquito has been found in Croatia. This type of mosquito spreads diseases such as Zika, dengue and chikunguya. Malaria was eradicated in Croatia in 1964. Locally transmitted cases of dengue fever have been reported on the Adriatic Coast and in northeastern Croatia.
  • Altitude sickness – Croatia has areas of high altitude. This comes with the risk of altitude sickness. If you are planning to visit any high altitude areas in Croatia, be sure to allow sufficient time to acclimatise. If you experience any signs of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite or shortness of breath, get help immediately.
  • Road safety – Croatia has been making progress with improvements in road safety in recent years. However it still has one of the highest rates of road fatalities in Europe. This is due to a combination of narrow and windy roads as well as speed and other driver behaviour. Take care on the roads in Croatia.
  • Water safety – If you visit any of the coastal areas or lakes, take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect. Watch out for sea urchins as they can sting.
  • Earthquakes – Croatia experiences earthquake activity. If you experience an earthquake, stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls and anything that could fall. If you are inside get under a table, desk or solid furniture and hang onto it. Cover your head and torso to protect from falling objects. If you are outside, stay outside and go to an open area away from buildings.
  • Sun safety – Exposure to the sun can have adverse short-term and long-term effects on the skin, eyes and immune system. Sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important to ensure you don’t get burnt.

Croatia Blogs

You can find our Croatia travel blogs below.

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It can be easy to overlook Croatia’s capital for more glamorous destinations along the coast of Croatia. However Zagreb has ...

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