Is Zagreb, Croatia Worth Visiting?
I recently embarked on a journey to Zagreb, the capital and largest city of Croatia. Often underrated, this charming city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity.
What I Love about Croatia
Affordability: Zagreb is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. From accommodation to dining, you’ll find it easy on your wallet.
Safety: The city is known for its safety, making it a worry-free destination for solo travellers, families, and couples alike.
Friendly Locals: Zagreb is renowned for its warm and welcoming residents. You’ll feel right at home as you explore the city.
Cleanliness: The city is impressively clean, with well-maintained public spaces and parks.
Currency and Payments: Zagreb uses the Euro, and most stores accept card payments, making transactions smooth and convenient.
Effective Transportation: The city boasts an efficient public transportation system, with trams and buses running regularly and punctually. Additionally, Zagreb's location makes it a great starting point for trips to nearby countries like Slovenia, Hungary, and Austria.
Things to do/tourist attractions
Josip Jelačić Square
This bustling square is the heart of Zagreb. The architecture here is stunning, with elegant buildings surrounding the square. At its centre stands the Ban Josip Jelačić Sculpture, honouring a national hero who was both a soldier and a politician.
Manduševac Fountain
Located in Josip Jelačić Square, this fountain has a romantic legend attached to it. It's said that a Croatian war leader, possibly Jelačić himself, returned from battle exhausted and thirsty. He asked a girl named Manda for water, and the fountain was named after her. There’s also a superstition that drinking from this fountain will ensure your return to Zagreb. Pigeons flock around it, adding to its charm.
St. Mark’s Church
One of the oldest buildings in Zagreb, this church features a colorful tiled roof with the coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, and Slavonia. Unfortunately, I couldn’t see the interiors as it was closed during my visit.
Lotrščak Tower
Climb to the top of this tower for a panoramic view of Zagreb. The sight of the city's red roofs and colourful buildings is breathtaking.
Museum of Broken Relationships
As the name suggests, this museum is dedicated to the remnants of past relationships. The museum is interesting, you will find items that ex-lovers had given as gifts. There is a description of each item that gives context to what the object is about.
Kamenita Vrata (Stone Gate)
This historic gate once served as an entrance to the city. In the 17th century, a painting of the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus survived a fire here, and it is now considered miraculous. The gate is a sacred place where people come to pray and light candles, with plaques of thanksgiving messages adorning the walls. I would just chip in here; I heard that the city had some other fire incidents before the Stone Gate incident. In the past, the city was primarily built with wood which can be linked to fire occurrences.
Grič Tunnel
Built during World War II as a bomb shelter, this tunnel holds many secrets and is a fascinating piece of Zagreb's history.
Zagreb Funicular
The shortest funicular in the world, it connects the upper and lower towns of Zagreb. The ride is just about one minute long, and remarkably, it is said to have never had an accident.
Hotel Jagerhorn
The oldest hotel in Zagreb, it’s a piece of living history.
Lake Jarun
It is a man-made Lake formed by the river Sava created for the 1987 summer universiade. It is a good location for walking, cycling and other sports and social activities. Numerous signboards contain the names, photos, and a summary of some of Croatia's sporting greats.
Museum of Selfies and Memories
It is a place to have fun, play, and laugh. Look at the different installations you can find at the museum
Museum of Illusions
This museum offers an educational experience, explaining the science behind its many intriguing exhibits.
Zagreb Zoo
Located in Maksimir Park, this zoo houses animal species from across the world and is a great spot for a family day out.
