Zagreb Travel Guide

Zagreb is a metropolitan area that is the capital and largest city of Croatia. History and modernity are intertwined in this city.

It brings together the rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life of Central Europe. It attracts attention with its historical texture, impressive architecture, art galleries, museums, and colorful markets. Zagreb offers travelers a different experience with its historical buildings, large squares, and green areas.

It is famous for its old town and offers visitors a rich cultural atmosphere with its cathedrals, palaces, historical streets, and traditional markets.

It also has a dynamic city life with its modern cafes and restaurants, art galleries, and lively nightlife. Zagreb is a fascinating city that carries traces of modern Europe along with its historical riches. In the Zagreb travel guide, you can find information about places to visit in Zagreb, eating and drinking in Zagreb, and much more.

General Information

Where is Zagreb, and what are the neighboring cities?

Zagreb is located in the interior of Croatia and is very close to the center of many important Croatian cities. Its neighboring cities include cities such as Krapina, Velika Gorica, and Karlovac, located in the Krapina-Zagorje Region.

Also important are Zagreb's connections with other parts of Croatia and capitals. For example, Zagreb, which is very close to the Slovenian border, is an important point for transportation to other parts of Croatia and other major cities in Europe.

Best Time to Visit Zagreb

The best time to travel to Zagreb is between March and October. The ideal time to explore places to visit in Zagreb is usually between 2 and 3 days. However, for a more in-depth exploration or if you want to include surrounding locations around the city, it may be better to add a few more days.

Festivals in Zagreb

Zagreb hosts various festivals throughout the year. The first of these, Advent, is the festival of Zagreb. It is a very famous festival that takes place in December. The city, its streets, squares, and parks are illuminated, markets are established, concerts are held and an atmosphere full of various events is created.

The name of the big music festival held on the shores of Lake Jarun near Zagreb is the INmusic Festival. It takes place during the summer months and hosts internationally famous musical groups. Additionally, various concerts and events held throughout the year at the Mimara Museum provide a great experience for music lovers.

Various festivals and events are held in Zagreb throughout the year. For example, events such as the Zagreb Film Festival, International Children's Theater Festival, and Zagreb Gastro Festival are organized.

How to Get to Zagreb?

There are many direct flights to Zagreb from different countries. It is quite possible to find cheap Zagreb flight tickets with Pegasus Airlines. Because millions of people travel to Zagreb every day; It is considered one of the most popular destinations in the world.

There is one main airport in Zagreb. This airport bears the name "Franjo Tuđman Airport" (Zračna Luka Franjo Tuđman). Located approximately 17 kilometers from the center of Zagreb, this international airport provides connections to the city and other international destinations.

Franjo Tuđman Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Croatia. The majority of international travel to Zagreb takes place through this airport.

There are direct, non-stop flights from Istanbul Sabiha Gökcen Airport (SAW) to Zagreb Airport (ZAG). The distance between the two destinations takes 2 hours and 10 minutes.

You can buy your Pegasus Airlines flight tickets to travel to Zagreb.

Transportation from Zagreb airport to City Center

There are several options for transportation from Zagreb Airport to the city center:

There are regular bus services from the airport to the city center. The most popular lines go to main stops in the city center, such as "Autobusni Kolodvor" (bus terminal) and "Trg bana Josipa Jelačića" (Ban Jelačić Square).

The most common bus lines providing transportation from the airport to the city center are:

Pleso Prijevoz: These are buses serving between Zagreb Airport and the city center. These buses usually depart from the stops in front of the airport arrival terminal and go to the main stops in the city center.

Čazmatrans: Another bus company, Čazmatrans, provides transportation between the airport and the city center. Buses operate from the airport to different stops.

These bus services usually operate at regular intervals and offer a convenient and economical option to reach the city center. These buses have stops near the arrival terminal at the airport and generally provide transportation to important points in the city center.

There are many taxis at the exit for passengers arriving at the airport. You can choose one of these for travel. Transportation by taxi is more comfortable and quick. There is normally a fixed fee schedule.

There are many international and local car rental companies at the airport. If you prefer independent transportation, car rental is also an option.

Some hotels or private companies offer transfer services from the airport to the city center. To benefit from the hotel's transfer service, you must make a reservation in advance.

Transportation options between the airport and the city center are quite diverse. You can choose the most suitable one depending on your travel preferences, comfort, and budget.

What to eat in Zagreb?

Zagreb is a city with a rich food and drink culture. It combines traditional Croatian flavors, international cuisine, and modern restaurants. The eating and drinking experience in the city is generally rich in variety and taste.

Traditional Croatian Flavors: Zagreb is full of restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Croatian cuisine like Abšmalcane Mahune, Blitva, Rožata. It offers traditional flavors based on wines, seafood, meat dishes, and fresh vegetables.

Cafes and Patisseries: The city is famous for its street cafes, classic coffee shops, and patisseries. These places, especially located in the city center, are ideal for enjoying coffee or taking a dessert break.

National and International Cuisines: Zagreb offers a variety of options to experience cuisines from different cultures. Along with Italian, Austrian, and other international cuisines, you can also find traditional dishes from Asian cuisine.

Local Markets: Local markets such as Dolac Market offer fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and other local food items. They are a great destination for street food as well as produce.

Street Food and Street Flavors: Döner, hamburgers, sandwiches sold on the streets

In addition to foods such as food trucks or street foods, where you can taste different street delicacies, some places offer delicacies.

Places to Visit in Zagreb

The historical atmosphere of Gornji Grad (Old Town) is fascinating. St. Mark's Church and the Parliament Building are located in this area. Ban Jelačić Square is the main square of the city and is surrounded by shopping, restaurants, and cafes. It keeps the pulse of city life.

One of the symbols of the city is Zagreb Cathedral. This cathedral, built in Gothic style, attracts attention with its architecture and history. The city includes the Dolac Market, a famous open-air market selling fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and other local products. It is a great place to taste local delicacies.

One of the oldest parks in the city is Maksimir Park. It is ideal for relaxing and picnicking with its green areas, ponds, and natural beauties. A great place for art lovers. Mimara Museum has a rich collection of modern and contemporary works of art.

The streets of the city are decorated with colorful murals and street art. You can take a city tour to discover these works of art. Also, Šestine Hill, famous for its city view, has many cafes to relax and watch the panoramic view.

Shopping in Zagreb: The Best Souvenirs to Buy

Zagreb is a great place for traditional crafts, local delicacies, and unique souvenirs. Here are some places to shop in the city:

• Dolac Market: One of the most famous open-air markets in Zagreb. You can find fresh fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, jams and handmade souvenirs.
• Tkalciceva Street: This street is famous for its cafes, restaurants, and small shops. A variety of items can be found, such as souvenirs, handmade jewelry, paintings, and other works of art.
• Ilica Street: Filled with malls, boutiques, and stores, this street is a popular destination for clothing, souvenirs, and other shopping.

As souvenirs, traditional Croatian handicrafts, wood-carved products, handmade ceramics, lavender products, local wines, and olive oils can be preferred. Also popular are textiles embroidered with traditional Croatian patterns and motifs.

When shopping in Zagreb, you can find unique and original souvenirs from markets and small local shops.

Where to Stay in Zagreb?

There are various options for accommodation in Zagreb, and these often depend on visitors' preferences and budgets. Some of the accommodation options in the city include:

• Central Area: Around Ban Jelačić Square and locations close to this square are the central locations of the city. These areas host a variety of accommodation options, such as hotels, hostels, and rental apartments. They are known for being close to tourist attractions.
• Donji Grad (Lower Town): A street with shopping malls in Donji Grad, luxury. It is possible to find restaurants and hotels. It is generally ideal for business travelers or those who want to shop.
• Gornji Grad (Upper City): Famous for its historical texture, the Upper City is known for its old streets, narrow roads, and historical buildings. You can find more traditional-style boutique hotels and accommodation options here.
• Around Lake Jarun: There are hotels and recreational facilities around Lake Jarun, which is a little away from the city center. This place can be preferred by those who like to be close to green areas or for sports activities.

Essential Phone Numbers to Know

• Country Code: +385

• Ambulance: 112

• Police: 112

• Fire department: 112

• Zagreb Airport: +385 1 456 2222

• Zagreb Tourist Information Service: +385 1 48 14 052