Should You Visit Zagreb?

Is Zagreb worth visiting?

Zagreb is worth visiting for two to four days so that you can explore everything that the city has to offer. Zagreb is the capital and largest city in Croatia. It is often overlooked by tourists for the many more popular beach destinations in the country, but those who visit will appreciate the city's local vibe. There are many parks and outdoor cafes. The city also has a laid back vibe during the day, and a vibrant nightlife scene at night. The historical sights are mostly concentrated in the Upper Town.

Zagreb, Croatia

Reasons to Visit Zagreb

Museums
There are many historical sights around town, particularly in the historic Upper Town. Make sure you visit the Zagreb Cathedral, the Museum of Broken Relationships, Lotrscak Tower, and the historic Stone Gate.

Food
The food is heartier than you might expect with many recipes that involve stew or dumplings. Cheese and meat are common ingredients as well, with far less seafood than you'll find in the coastal cities. Popular dishes include Zagrebački odrezak (a rolled up ham, cheese, and veal sandwich), Štrukli (dough filled with cheese), and Ajngemahtec (vegetarian stew).

Nightlife
There are a huge number of live music venues, clubs, and bars around town where locals hang out late into the evening. The city's nightlife has a more local vibe than other Croatian cities, so you can party with the students and residents and get a true feel for the Croatian culture.

Historical Sights
The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Shopping
The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

The Costs
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Zagreb might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Zagreb here or see if Zagreb is expensive here.

Authenticity
Zagreb has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.

Is Zagreb worth visiting in the Summer?

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 22°C (72°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 27°C (81°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Zagreb, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. This is a great time of year to wander through the museums, enjoy the city's energy, and admire the historic sights. Also, you'll be able to take advantage of the local nightlife.

Is Zagreb worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Zagreb. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to browse around the old town, browse through museums, and discover the big city activities.

Is Zagreb worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Zagreb. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.

The weather in Zagreb can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 1°C (35°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the cuisine, and the historic old town. Also, you can grab some drinks at a bar and soak up the big city atmosphere.

Is Zagreb worth visiting in the Spring?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 13°C (55°F).

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Zagreb, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.

Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. This is a great time of year to browse the shops, browse the museums, and admire the historic sights. Also, you can check out the nightlife.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Zagreb

Not As Family-Friendly
While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.

Not As Romantic
For couples, this destination does not have a great vibe for romance compared to other places.

Related

What is Zagreb most famous for?

Zagreb is most famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is often described as authentic, under-rated, local, historic, and beautiful.

What is the most famous sight in Zagreb?

The most popular sight in Zagreb is The Zagreb Cathedral. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Zagreb on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Zagreb Cathedral and other attractions here.

How touristy is Zagreb? Is it a popular city to visit?

Zagreb is an off-the-beaten-path city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Kayaking - Kayak tour Karlovac: $44
• Baroque Varaždin and Trakošćan Castle Private Tour: $176
• Magical Lake Bled and Ljubljana Private Tour from Zagreb: $251
• Back to Yugoslavia Private City Tour in Old-Timer Yugo Car: $93
• Best of SLOVENIA - Bled + Postojna + Ljubljana - Day Tour from Zagreb: $224
• The Best of Zagreb Private Walking Tour: $219
• Zagreb Private City Walking Tour: $60
• Full Day Private Tour of Plitvice National Park and Željava Airbase with a Yugo: $240

How long should I spend in Zagreb?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Zagreb is two to four days. Since Zagreb has activities such as dining, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, many visit for up to four days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Zagreb? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Zagreb?.