Zagreb - Lentini Travels

Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, is a beautiful city located in southeastern Europe. It is known for historic landmarks, elegant architecture and abundance of greenery spaces. With its relaxed atmosphere and walkable centre, Zagreb is an excellent choice for a short city break. Within easy reach of the capital, visitors can also experience Rastoke, a charming riverside visit famous for its wooden houses and flowing waterfalls. It makes a peaceful and rewarding stop during a visit to Croatia. Often visited before the famous Plitvice Lakes, Rastoke offers a quieter and more intimate nature experience.

A 3-4 day visit is ideal to experience the highlights of Zagreb while allowing time for a visit to Rastoke. This gives you enough time to explore the city at a relaxing pace and enjoy a rewarding day trip in nature. To help you plan your visit, this webpage is organised into several sections:

Hotels in Zagreb – Where to stay for your convenience and comfort in Zagreb;
Main Tourist Attractions in Zagreb – Must-see sights and local favourites;
Getting around Zagreb – Tips on transport options around Zagreb;
Main sights whilst visiting Rastoke – The main sights to be visited in your day trip.
3-Day itinerary – A detailed plan to make the most of your trip.

Hotels in Zagreb

The main sights in Zagreb are found in both the Upper Town and the Lower Town, making these areas the best places to stay. Choosing accommodation in these neighbourhoods allows you to explore most attractions on foot. They are also well connected to teh rest of the city by public transport. Staying in these areas is especially convenient, as there are plenty of excellent restaurants nearby, making it easy to enjoy dinner close to your hotel. Well located hotel options include The Westin Zagreb and Manda Heritage Hotel. This area also offers a good selection of apartments for those who prefer more space or independence. For a unique stay, we highly recommend Apartment Zagreb Jacuzzi located in the upper town of Zagreb.

Main Tourist Attractions in Zagreb

Zagreb is packed with some amazing landmarks and stunning highlights. Here are the top attractions which shouldn’t be missed during your visit. To help you make the most of your visit, we have grouped the top attractions into different categories based on their location, making it easier to plan your days and explore the city efficiently.

Upper Town

1. Zagreb Cathedral – One of the tallest and most recognisable buildings in Croatia, this cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary and to St. Stephen and St. Ladislaus. Located in the Upper Town area of Kaptol, it suffered some damage During the 2020 earthquake, which lead to the removal of one of its spires and ongoing reconstruction. While the interior is currently closed to visitors, the striking exterior remains a must see for anyone exploring Zagreb.

1. Lotrščak Tower – This fortified medieval tower is located next to the funicular, which will be covered in the Lower Town section. Visitors can admire the tower’s exterior or enter to access the shop and viewpoint at the top. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 7 pm, and on Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 9 pm. General admission is €3, with the reduced admission being €2.

1. St. Mark’s Church – This stunning church is one of the oldest architectural monuments in Zagreb. It is unique for its colourful tiled roof, which features the coat of arms of Croatia and Slavonia, and the emblem of the city of Zagreb. This is located in the picturesque St. Mark’s Square.

1. Stone Gate – This historic stone gate, located next to St. Mark’s Church, is the only remaining entrance to Zagreb’s medieval fortifications. Dating from the 13th century, it also houses a shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Stone Gate. On Tuesdays at 8pm, locals gather to pray the rosary, sing, and share personal prayers. This is a beautiful experience for both worshippers and visitors, offering a glimpse of the city’s strong sense of community.

1. Strossmayer Promenade – This charming promenade in the Upper Town features a stairwell that leads to stunning views of both Upper and Lower Town. It offers a scenic and relaxing walk, making it a must visit spot for visitors exploring Zagreb’s historic centre.

Lower Town

1. Ban Jelačić Square – This vibrant central square is the heart of Zagreb. It features a monument of Ban Josip Jelačić, a highly influential 19th century Croatian political figure riding on horseback. The square is a bustling hub, surrounded by shops, cafes, and historic buildings, making it a perfect starting point to explore the city.

1. Lenuci’s Horseshoe – This is a U-shaped system of parks and squares found in the Lower Town of Zagreb. It offers an ideal and peaceful stroll for visitors, featuring many beautiful green spaces across the city centre. Notable stops along the Horseshoe include Park Zrinjevac, a popular park located south of Ban Jelačić Square, known for its fountains, music pavillion and well-maintained greenery, as well as King Tomislav Square, a picturesque square featuring several heritage buildings and a central fountain. The route also includes Botanical Garden Zagreb, stunning gardens which open during the non winter months and offer a peaceful visit filled with stunning greenery and colourful flowers. General admission to the Botanical Garden is €2, with the reduced admission being €1. For the most up to date details and opening hours, it is best to check the official website.

1. Croatian National Theatre – This beautiful building features stunning exterior architecture and is a must see when exploring the Lower Town. Visitors can also attend a performance at the theatre, with show schedules and ticket prices available through the official website.

1. Funicular – The world’s smallest funicular links the Lower Town with the Upper Town. It is open daily from 6:30 am to 10 pm, with rides every 10 minutes, and each trip costs €0.66.

Park Maksimir

Park Maksimir is a large and historic park that is home to extensive greenery, scenic lakes, and Zagreb Zoo. It is an ideal place to spend a morning or early afternoon surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful escape from the city centre.

1. Zagreb Zoo – This budget friendly zoo is home to over 7,000 animals from more than 350 species found across all continents. Some such animals include lions, red pandas and bears. General admission is €7, with several reduced tickets also being available. Adult tickets on Monday are also cheaper, with them being €5. More information can be found on the official website.

1. Lakes – Park Maksimir is home to several beautiful and peaceful lakes. One of these lakes is located within Zagreb Zoo, while the others are in much quieter areas of the park, making them perfect for a relaxing stroll and peaceful escape into nature.

Other Amazing Locations

Zagreb is also home to a wide range of fantastic attractions beyond its historic squares and green spaces. From world class museums to vibrant shopping centres, there is plenty more to explore across the city.

Museums

1. Museum of Broken Relationships – This unique museum displays a collection of personal objects and stories related to broken relationships, offering a thought provoking and emotional experience. It is definitely worth the visit whilst touring the Upper Town. Opening hours in summer are daily from 9 am to 10 pm, and in winter from 9 am to 9 pm. General admission is €7, with reduced admission being €5.50. More information can be found on the official website.

1. Video Game History Museum – Perfect to those visitors with a passion for gaming, this museum features exhibits covering several historic decades that shaped the gaming industry. Opening hours are Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm. General admission is €15, with reduced admission being €12, and each ticket is valid for 2 hours. To purchase tickets, and more information, check the official website.

1. Zagreb City Museum- Dedicated to the history of the city of Zagreb, the largest city museum in Croatia features several exhibits on the history of this city, spanning all the way back to the prehistory, Roman periods and even the modern period. Opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm. General admission is €5, with reduced admission being available.

1. Nikola Tesla Technical Museum – This museum in Zagreb features a wide range of scientific and technical exhibits reflecting Croatia’s history. Highlights include aircrafts, cars, machinery, and a tram that visitors can ride free of charge. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm. General admission is €4, which includes access to all permanent exhibitions and collections, excluding the planetarium, which also costs €4. Guided tours are also available, and more information about the museum and its tours can be found on the official website.

Amazinga

This is the largest entertainment centre in the entire country. It has several amazing attractions, including Croatia’s only trampoline park, laser tag, mini ninja course, climbing wall, leap of faith and Bumper Cars. It is fun for people of all ages, and includes several different ticket options available, with combinations for different attractions. For the full list of attractions, different pricing options, and opening hours, you can check the official website. If you visit Amazinga, a stroll through Park Bundek would be a peaceful and relaxing stroll following your visit.

Shopping

Zagreb offers numerous shopping spots, featuring a wide range of popular shops across various categories.

1. Supernova Garden Mall – Located close to Park Maksimir, this shopping mall features a wide range of shops including C&A, New Yorker and Snipes. The mall is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 9 pm, and also on selected Sundays. A full list of shops and the latest information can be found on the official website.
2. Arena Centar – This large shopping mall is home to numerous shops and restaurants. Popular stores include H&M, Zara and Pull & Bear, while the food court features options such as KFC and Burger King. The mall is open Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 9 pm. For the full list of shops and restaurants, and some further information, you can check the official website.
3. Dolac Market – Located in the Upper Town, this traditional market features numerous stalls selling fresh produce and local souvenirs. Easily recognised by red umbrellas, it is a must visit for tourists looking to experience local life in Zagreb. It is recommended to visit early in the morning, with the opening hours being from 7 am to 3 pm, with the closing time for Sunday being 1pm.

Restaurants

Zagreb offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes, perfect whether you are stopping for a quick snack or enjoying a full meal

1. Batak Grill – This popular local meat restaurant has several locations around Zagreb. It is definitely worth visiting to experience traditional Croatian grilled delicacies in a relaxed and authentic setting.
2. La Štruk – This shop sells the traditional Croatian štruklji, a dish consisteing of dough and various different fillings. It can either be boiled or baked.

In addition to these recommendations, the shopping malls around Zagreb also offer a variety of excellent restaurants, making them convenient places to enjoy a meal while shopping.

Getting around Zagreb

The best way to travel around Zagreb is by using the tram system. There is a total of 15 routes, with a majority stopping at either Ban Jelačić Square or the main train station, making it very easy to move around the city. Tram tickets cost €0.53, and must be validated in the machines on board the tram. Each ticket is valid for 30 minutes.

Tickets can be purchased from the many newspaper kiosks found around the city by asking for a “tramvajska karta”, which means tram ticket. It is recommended to purchase them in batches, so that you would not need to purchase one every time you plan to use the tram. Tickets can also be purchased on board, but these are slightly more expensive and not always available.

To navigate the city with ease, it is also highly recommended to use the Citymapper app, which provides real-time schedules and route planning. Citymapper is also available on both Google Play and the App Store.

Main Sights whilst visiting Rastoke

Rastoke, located in Slunj, is charming riverside village that is characterised by countless waterfalls and lush greenery. It offers a more relaxing and quieter experience compared to the much larger Plitvice Lakes, making it a perfect stop for a peaceful break. The village is filled with beautiful sights and picturesque corners, providing a wonderful place to explore and enjoy nature. If you are planning a day trip to Rastoke, allow around five hours in Slunj and Rastoke to explore at a leisurely pace and fully enjoy the waterfalls, greenery, and village charm.

1. Slunj Park (Trg dr. franje tuđmana) – This peaceful square is a perfect spot to relax in the town of Slunj before heading to the river and waterfalls of Rastoke.

1. Rastoke Village – Visitors can explore Rastoke Village to get a closer look its stunning waterfalls and discover the history of this charming settlement. This area also features Fairy Tale village, and numerous benches are available to sit and admire the natural wonders. Admission can be purchased from the gates, and the village offers many beautiful sights and photo opportunities, making it a truly memorable visit.

1. Rastoke Waterfalls – Additional waterfalls can be viewed from the other side of the wooden bridge, offering a different perspective of the village’s natural beauty. A stroll along the nearby road provides even more waterfalls to admire, as well as broader views of some of the falls you have already explored, making it a truly picturesque experience.

1. Restaurants – There are several options nearby for lunch. Recommended choices include Restoran Ambar, as well as the restaurants located in Slunj centre, offering a range of local dishes and refreshments.

3-day Itinerary

Below is a suggested 3-day itinerary designed so you can experience Zagreb’s main sights at a comfortable pace., with an afternoon visit to Rastoke. This is the order I recommend, but the days can be adjusted depending on the opening hours of the attractions or your personal preferences. It is definitely highly recommended to also spend a day trip to visit Plitvice Lakes.

Day 1 - Upper and Lower Town

Morning – Start your day with a stroll along Strossmayer Promenade, which offers stunning views and leads you into the Upper Town. Enter the promenade through it to visit Lotrščak Tower and St. Mark’s Church. When in this area, be sure to visit the museum of broken relationship. If interested, you can also explore Zagreb City Museum. Continue your walk through Stone Gate to reach Dolac Market and then head to Zagreb Cathedral.

Afternoon – Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, then make your way to Ban Jelačić Square. From there, take a stroll through Lenuci’s Horseshoe, ensuring you visit Park Zrinjevac, King Tomislav Square and Botanical Garden Zagreb. Nest, stop by the Croatian national theatre before finishing the afternoon at the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum for your final stop of the day.

Day 2 - Rastoke and Upper Town at night

Morning/Afternoon – Take the bus to visit the village of Slunj and Rastoke. Be sure to pre book your bus tickets in advance. Start with a visit to Slunj park, then make your way to Rastoke village and admire its natural beauty. Take a stroll along the wooden bridge and continue along the paths to enjoy the stunning greenery and waterfalls. Enjoy lunch in Rastoke or Slunj, before returning by bus to Zagreb. Once back, head to your hotel to relax and recharge before the evening.

Evening. Take the funicular from the Lower Town to Upper Town. Spend your evening strolling through the Upper Town, and then enjoy dinner at one of its many restaurants.

Day 3 - Park Maksimir and Shopping

Morning/Afternoon – Head to Park Maksimir and start your visit at Zagreb Zoo. After exploring the zoo, continue strolling through the park and enjoy its scenic lakes and lush greenery. Some good stops for the stroll include Sokolska mogila and Paviljon Jeka. For lunch, then stop at a nearby restaurant.

Afternoon/Evening – Depending on your preference, visit either the nearby Supernova Garden Mall, or else head to Arena Centar for some shopping. Spend some time exploring the shops and dining options to round off your day.

Interactive Map

Explore Zagreb and Rastoke at ease whilst using our interactive map

In the interactive map, you have all the attractions found on this website, as well as the walking paths mentioned in the itinerary section, for your ease. It is designed to help you navigate Zagreb and Rastoke effortlessly, following our suggested routes and highlights.

Access to the interactive map can be obtained from the shop. The map is powered by Google Maps and is linked to your Google account. Therefore, an active internet connection is required to use the interactive map.