A city of breathtaking architecture, vibrant color, and scrumptious local delicacies, Zagreb has been the cultural center of Croatia since ancient times. Although most flock to Croatia’s famed Dalmatian Coast, Zagreb is filled with wonder to discover with the romantic charm of a Mediterranean city.
PLAY
↑ Ban Jelačić Square
Ban Jelačić Square is the central square in the Lower Town and the area is full of markets and life. You can find scrumptious local delicacies like pastries, deli meats, honey and jams at these artisanal markets all for a fraction of the price that you’d find at comparable markets in Europe.
↑ Zagreb Cathedral
After exploring the expansive markets we made our way to the famed Zagreb Cathedral which is one of the cities beloved landmarks. As the largest sacral building in the Gothic style southeast of the Alps, the magnificent spires can be seen from all around the city. The inside of the Cathedral is filled with incredible detail and gothic art and houses the tomb of Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac.
↑ Flower Market and Central Market
Just around the corner from the main square, you’ll find the Flower Market and Central Market. Overflowing with vibrantly colored blooms, and ripe fruits and veggies, we spent time here looking for delicious ingredients to sustain us during our day of adventuring through the city.
↑ Local Crafts
We also found some lovely Croatian crafts here including hand embroidery, baskets, and beautiful illustrations of local folk stories.
↑ The Botanical Gardens
I always take the time to visit a city’s botanical gardens and Zagreb’s is one of the most beautiful in the world. Opened in 1891, the gardens feature greenhouses abundant with exotic plants, a waterlily fountain, and plenty of lovely paths through the garden grounds.
EAT
Zagreb is overflowing with delectable little cafes with plenty of cozy outdoor seating along the cities ancient coordinators. As Croatia is a recent addition to the European Union, the food is particularly inexpensive. Seafood is affordable here and can be found fresh and in abundance at eateries throughout the city.
↑ La Štruk
Located in the heart of the city, La Štruk is one of my favorite restaurants in Zagreb. La Štruk is a local favorite with local pricing and is popular for its baked meat, vegetable. and cheese dishes which are absolutely delicious. Croatian food tends to be hearty which was welcome after adventuring around the city all day. They’ve also got plenty of delicious local beer options that make for the perfect accompaniment to a meal here.
STAY
↑ Lobagola B&B
Lobagola B&B is a stylish b&b close to the old town center in Zagreb. We loved staying at this incredibly welcoming, relaxed, and cozy hotel. Recently opened, the amenities are top of the line all for an affordable nightly rate.
Croatia is a largely undiscovered European gem and a visit to Zagreb is absolutely worthwhile. The Mediterranean culture, delicious local food, charming folk art, and ancient city corridors will have you returning to this lovely city for years to come.