Things to do in Zagreb

Modern Zagreb is broken into three main districts, with most of the better tourist attractions concentrated in the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and Kaptol area, the sections of the city that were once contained within fortified walls.

Zagreb Cathedral

Perhaps the most stunning example of Zagreb’s architectural heritage is the ancient Gothic cathedral in the Kaptol district. A masterpiece of construction, the cathedral has existed in some form since the 10th century, although the Gothic structure was built between the 13th and 15th centuries. Parts of the cathedral were destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries, with some sections now in a neo-Gothic style. The interior shows the architectural influences of many centuries, with Baroque altars tastefully blending with Gothic, Renaissance and neo-Gothic decorative elements. Rounding out the cathedral’s attractions are several exquisite artworks.

Archbishops Palace

This Baroque masterpiece was constructed in the early 18th century, although quarters for the bishop and later archbishop had existed since the 10th century. The palace and Kaptol Square are notable for their statue of St Mary and the angels, while also worth seeing are the Curiae of Zagreb canons in Kaptol Square, of which there are 28 in total. Curiae numbers 7, 8, 13 and 15 are considered the most interesting.

Dolac Market

This traditional market is located in the Kaptol district and is a great place to observe elements of authentic Zagreb culture. The daily happenings at the market have remained the same for hundreds of years, with vendors trying their best to entice buyers to purchase fresh fish, meat, vegetables, fruit and other produce.

Lotrscak Tower

Standing sentinel over St Catherine’s Church and its square is the ancient 14th century Lotrascak Tower, which was once a vital part of the city’s fortification system. Today, the tower affords stunning panoramas of Zagreb’s Kaptol and Lower Town districts and the hinterland. In particular, the view along Strossmayer Promenade is fantastic. Lotrscak Tower is the last stop on the vintage funicular railway. 

Kamenita Vrata Gate

The so-called Stone Gate is the last remaining ancient city gate in Zagreb and was once the entrance to the Upper Town district. The gate has been in existence since the Middle Ages, but the present incarnation dates from 1760. The shops surrounding the Stone Gate have retained their original façades and lend a charming ambience to the district.

Popov Tower

Located in the Gradec district in the Upper Town, this 13th century tower was constructed following the disastrous assaults on the city by the Tatars. The structure is well preserved and today, the top of the tower is an observatory. Views from this tower are magnificent.

Church of St Mark

Built in the Gothic style, the Church of St Mark is one of the finest churches in Zagreb, with stunning Gothic vaults and magnificent carvings. The portals in particular are a delight to behold. Parts of the church date from the 14th century, although much of the structure was rebuilt in the 19th century. The square in front of the church is a popular venue for concerts, festivals and other events.

Church of St Catherine

Considered the most beautiful of all Zagreb’s Baroque churches, the Church of St Catherine is a lovely structure built by the Jesuits in the 17th century. The church has only one nave, and is quite simple in layout and design. Highlights include the wooden Baroque altars, the marble altar and the six-sided chapels.

Mirogoj Cemetery

Situated just out of town is this amazing cemetery, which is well worth visiting. There is a magnificent mortuary and some wonderfully designed tombs, arcades and churches. There are many trees and gardens, which make this historic cemetery a relaxing place to spend a few hours.

Museums
Zagreb is known as the ‘city of museums’, and there are more museums per capita here than anywhere else in the world. Most tourists limit themselves to the more famous ones, while people with special interests are bound to find some collection dedicated to their passion.

The Archaeological Museum has thousands of valuable artefacts from across Croatia and southern Europe, while the Ethnographic Museum showcases the traditions, arts and beliefs of cultures from around the world. The Croatian Historical Museum is a must for anyone with an interest in the long and often troubled past of the region, while the Museum of the City of Zagreb focuses more on the city’s past.

There are plenty of great art museums as well, with the acclaimed Mimara Museum being the most popular with its works by masters such as Rembrandt, Van Goyen, Rubens, Van Dyck, Goya, Turner, Degas and Manet. Also worth visiting for art buffs are the Museum of Contemporary Art and the HAZU Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters.