The best way to discover the treasures of Zagreb, its streets, secret impasses, courtyards and gardens, is on foot.
The Croatian capital city of Zagreb lies on the banks of the Sava River and at the foot of the Medvednicaa mountain. The mountain and its fortress Medvedgrad (at 593m) are one of the favourite places where many locals like to spend their Sundays taking a short hike up to the 1.030 meters high peak Sljeme. It is an amazing view of Zagreb and the surrounding area, just half an hour from the city centre. The west part of Medvednica is a nature park.
We recommend starting the sightseeing tour in the Lower Town (Donji Grad) built in the 19th century, where you can observe the bustle of Zagreb while enjoying a cup of coffee at the Ban-Jelačić-Square (main square). Between Lower and Upper Town, you will find the Kaptol, the oldest district with the cathedral.
The Upper Town (Gornji Grad), placed slightly higher above the main square, is the jewel of Zagreb. The narrow streets invite you to stroll - as well as sights such as the Parliament and Government buildings, the famous 13th-century St. Mark's Church with its red-white-and-blue tiled roof, The Lotrščak Tower (fortified tower) and many museums. The old town you can also reach by a funicular built in 1890.
Zagreb is a cosy, green city. The urban lifestyle and nature are very close together. There is a horseshoe-shaped clustering of eight parks and squares called Lenuzzi Green Horseshoe. Another green and architectural gem is the Mirogoj cemetery complex. Also attractive are the Maksimir Landscape Park and the Botanical Garden.
The best panoramic view of the city you will experience is in Zagreb Eye, situated on the Ban-Jelačić-Square. The observation deck is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Zagreb.
On the other side of the river, you will discover the face of the new Zagreb called Novi Zagreb. We recommend visiting the excellent Museum of Contemporary Art and the beautiful city park Bundek with two lakes.
During the hot summers, you can refresh yourself on Jarun Lake. The 4 km long Jarun Lake with its 6 islands (!) is just a few kilometres west of the city centre. Here you can swim, row, canoe or chill in the evening.
Zagreb is a city that inspires with its romantic stories, legends, gastronomy and culture of long and relaxed coffee drinking at any time in numerous cafes.
All in all, Zagreb has so many to offer: very hospitable people, a lot of greenery, medieval buildings with beautiful architecture, excellent cuisine, wine and beer tradition, many coffee shops, cultural facilities, tumultuous history, unique city tours and exciting events and festivals.
Recommended events in Zagreb you can find HERE (Festival & Events section).
Did you know that the Hotel Esplanade (located directly on the main railway station) was built in 1925 for passengers of the Orient Express, a railway line between Paris and Istanbul. Since these days the hotel was atractting many famous personalities. From well known writers, painters, Hollywood actors, singers, athletes to politicians and royal families. Some of them are: Queen Elizabeth II, Orson Welles, Elizabeth Taylor, Maria Callas, Louis Armstrong and many others.