Strossmayer Promenade

Nestled in the heart of Kaptol Square, the Zagreb Cathedral, previously known as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, stands as a monumental tribute to both the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the revered kings, Saint Stephen and Saint Ladislaus. As you approach, the cathedral's towering twin spires, each stretching 108 meters or 354 feet into the sky, immediately catch your eye. These spires are the tallest in Croatia, allowing the cathedral to rise majestically above the cityscape. Enclosed on three sides by the historic Archbishop’s Palace, the cathedral is not just an architectural marvel but a piece of Croatian history you can't miss. Its sacristy, in particular, is renowned for its exceptional architectural significance. However, what you see today is not the cathedral's original form. The structure has endured its fair share of trials: a Tartar invasion and a devastating fire in the 13th century left their mark. The most significant transformation came after the 1880 earthquake, which led to a complete restoration in the Neo-Gothic style by the skilled hands of architect Hermann Bollé. While wandering through the cathedral, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details and the sense of history that permeates the air. Besides its architectural beauty, the cathedral often hosts concerts and events, offering a chance to experience its grandeur in a unique way. The surrounding area of Kaptol Square is also worth exploring, with quaint cafes and charming streets that provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll.

Saint Mark’s Church is a true gem in Zagreb, instantly recognizable by its dazzling tiled roof. This iconic building, dating back to the 13th century, stands as one of the city’s oldest and most cherished structures. As you approach, your eyes will naturally be drawn to the Southern portal. It's not just any entrance; it's the most ornate Gothic portal in all of Croatia. This stunning portal features 15 intricate sculptures, a mix of 11 stone Gothic figures and 4 wooden Baroque ones, nestled in 11 niches. Among these, you'll find depictions of the Virgin Mary with the Child, Christ, St. Mark, and the apostles. Each one tells a story, capturing the spirit of a bygone era. The church's roof, constructed in 1880 by the talented Friedrich Schmidt and Herman Bollé, is a masterpiece in itself. On the left, it proudly displays the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, and Slavonia, while the right side showcases the emblem of Zagreb. The vibrant colors and detailed designs make it a feast for the eyes. Step inside, and you'll be greeted by the artistic brilliance of Ivan Meštrović, Jozo Kljaković, and Ljubo Babić. The interior is a blend of history and artistry, with frescos that have been lovingly restored. Look up to admire the ceiling, gilded with 22-carat gold leaflets, adding a touch of grandeur. Recently, a new organ has been installed, infusing the space with rich, melodic sounds. While you're in the neighborhood, take a moment to explore the charming cobbled streets of Zagreb's Upper Town. This area is bustling with quaint cafes and local shops, offering a perfect spot to relax and soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just love a good photo opportunity, Saint Mark’s Church is a must-see on your Zagreb adventure.

Lotrščak Tower is Zagreb’s fortified tower. It was a part of the southern gate and town defences against the Turks, built in 1266. Today, it is one of the last remaining fortifications and one of Zagreb monuments. But wait – there’s more, inside the Grič cannon fires every day exactly at noon. It has been doing that for the last hundred years, as a commemoration of Zagreb’s victory over the Turks. It has become somewhat a tradition, as locals set their watches according to the shot. The tower was overlooking Zagreb defences for years in the past. As a matter of fact, it got its name by the bell, lat. campana latrunculorum (thief’s bell), which rang every night before the gates closed. Today, it is overlooking Zagreb and offers spectacular views from its top. We highly recommend it to all who can climb its narrow steps. https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/lotrscak-tower-gric-cannon/

The Museum of Broken Relationships is a collection of relationships and in fact an emotional rollercoaster. The first privately owned museum in Zagreb and a winner of the European Museum Kenneth Hudson Award in 2011. It is located in the beautiful baroque Kulmer palace in the Upper Town – a historical part of Zagreb rich in tourist attractions. Conceptualised by Olinka Vištica and Dražen Grubišić, the Museum has toured internationally, amassing an amazing collection and promoting Zagreb. The Museum of Broken Relationships is dedicated to failed relationships. As a matter of fact, it exhibits personal objects, leftover from former owners, accompanied by their stories and emotions. Exhibits hit on a range of emotions and relationships. Reflect on your personal experiences and how they intertwine with the items on display. It makes you think of the value we give to common objects. It is not about the items you will find. Above all else, it is about the incredible experience and emotions you feel as you walk through the exhibition! https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/museum-broken-relationships/

Zagreb City Museum will show you all aspects of the city. Showing Zagreb under the influence of politics, the church, history, economy, town-planning and architecture, the history of art and literature, and everyday life. The Museum building was once the Convent of the Poor Clares and is a historical monument itself. Their most valuable exhibit. The exhibition shows the lifecycle of Zagreb through 45 themes. Built around the artefacts the Museum possesses. You will find a prehistoric settlement constructed in the 7th century BC. Starting with the Hallstatt culture of the Early Iron Age and a house and workshop of the La Tene culture of the Late Iron Age. The archaeological map shows visitors the most important sites and finds in the city! https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/zagreb-city-museum/

Backo Mini Express is an amazing mini-train museum filled with innovation and surprises. Marvel at a very carefully constructed wonderland of trains, skiers, stations and towns. You can get up close and see how it works. Backo Mini Express will overjoy train lovers and children with their models. After six years of work, the scale model is displayed across 75 square metres. It is constantly expanding through innovation and new models. In fact, at the moment it is the largest model in south-eastern Europe. Although the museum is in a single room, they showcase 102 model trains across 1050 m of the railway on 8 levels. They are also featuring a miniature model of the Snow Queen Trophy at Sljeme and an ice skating rink at Tomislav Square. The ski slope is complete with snow, moving skiers, borders and cable railway. It takes some serious engineering and technical innovations to fit all that in. As a matter of fact, they paid attention to the finest detail. Including the scenery which is extraordinary. They thought of everything, including weather control, moving road car models and people engaged in various activities. https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/backo-mini-express/

The repertoire is very rich including the world classics, national tradition and contemporary works. As a matter of fact, countless world-famous artists, from ballet dancers to opera singers, have performed on its stage. The opera has an exciting new season. They continue their best works of domestic opera production. It presents contemporary works that will, consequently, position Zagreb as an unavoidable place on the European opera charts. Croatian National Theatre is one of Zagreb’s most elegant and spectacular buildings! It was designed by the renowned Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Herman Helmer. In front of the theatre, you will find The Well of Life, designed by Ivan Meštrović in 1905. Experts claim the statue is among Mestrovic’s finest pieces of art. The Croatian National Theater in Zagreb is one of those things you have to feel and see. https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/croatian-national-theatre/

Medvednica Sljeme is a rare example where a nature park is merging with a capital city. In the past, Medvednica provided protection with its castles. As well, it was the source of life because it provided residents with wood, coal, salt, stone, silver and water. Sljeme is the highest mountain peak on Medvednica but is often used to refer to the entire mountain. The mountain is filled with springs and streams, forests, mountain meadows and wildlife. Only a short drive from the city centre of Zagreb. For this reason, today, locals find it as an escape from city life. There are 20 archaeological sites in the Nature Park. Ranging from Prehistoric Period down to the late Middle Ages. At the same time, there are 60+ registered cultural properties. Which testifies to the Parks abundance of cultural heritage. With its Castles and manor houses, Medvednica was both a protector and a tyrant to locals. While the castles were made to protect, their lords used its strategic position to terrorise and pillage the locals. The legend of the Black Queen of Medvedgrad speaks of this. https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/medvednica-sljeme/

Mushroom Museum has up to 1250 species of real mushrooms from around the world. Including dozens of newly discovered species. As a matter of fact, the mushrooms are freeze-dried. Which means they are alive, in their original form, size and colour. Making the Mushroom Museum unique in the world. You have a chance to see the infamous and deadly Amanita phalloides, also known as death cap. They are preserved in their original state so to educate visitors about mushrooms and mycology. In addition, it is about developing ecological awareness. Preserving forests from devastation and overcrowding. It is led by agronomist and greatest authority on mushrooms in Croatia, Professor Romano Bozac, D.Sc. In fact, he can take you around the exhibit, if he has the time. https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/mushroom-museum/

Zrinjevac Park is a part of Zagreb Lenuci horseshoe. Just south of the central Ban Jelačić Square. It is just a short stroll away. In the park, you may relive Zagreb’s rich history. The centrepiece of the park is the 19th century Music pavilion which serves as an open-air concert stage surrounded by Zagreb institutions. It consists of a 19th-century music pavilion, several fountains, 130 years old weather monitoring station and monuments to famous Croatians: Julije Klović, Andrija Medulić, Fran Krsto Frankopan, Nikola Jurišić, Ivan Kukuljević Sakcinski and Ivan Mažuranić. The park is also home to Zagreb’s first fountain. Designed by Herman Bollé and built-in 1878 the fountain is popularly known as “The Mushroom”. https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/zrinjevac-park/

Dolac market nurtures it’s 80+ years old tradition as Zagreb’s main flea or open-air farmers’ market. You will feel the vibe of the town and experience local flavours. Traders from all over Croatia colour the Dolac market with locally grown produce. But be careful there are imported goods as well… At the Dolac market, you will find fresh and local produce. There is a fish market, butcheries, healthy food stands, fresh pasta vendors, bakeries, cheesemongers, flowers, souvenirs, fruit and vegetables. Locals love to buy fresh food at the open-air markets. Basically, every neighbourhood has its own farmers’ market, but the Dolac market is the biggest and the most famous one. The market operates mainly in the morning. Although the official working hours are up until 3 PM, the safest time to visit is until 1 PM. https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/dolac-market/

Grič Tunnel was built in 1943, during World War II and connected to Zagreb tunnels. Its primary purpose was to shelter civilians from frequent bombings during WWII and the Croatian War of Independence. After all, it is a part of a network of Zagreb tunnels under the Upper Town. But the only one open to the public! You can find the tunnel entrances as they are marked with Zagreb coat of arms. Once you look at Zagreb coat of arms on the rooftop of St. Marks Church, you will notice the underground, secret door under the castle. Symbolising the entrance to hidden Zagreb network of tunnels. Stories and legends speak of secret underground passages all over the city. One of them speaks of the great 1880 earthquake. When it is said most of the tunnels disappeared, containing the church gold. https://www.visitzagreb.hr/zagreb/gric-tunnel/

Nestled within a striking modern building that first opened its doors in 2009, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Zagreb is a must-visit for any art lover. This architectural gem houses the permanent Collection in Motion exhibit, which showcases an intriguing array of contemporary works. Throughout the year, the museum also hosts a dynamic selection of temporary exhibits, ensuring there's always something new to capture your interest. The museum itself is a piece of art, with its sleek design and open spaces, offering an inspiring backdrop to the creativity within. It’s not just for art aficionados either; even if you're just dipping your toes into the world of contemporary art, you'll find something to spark your curiosity here. Plus, the museum is located in the bustling Novi Zagreb area, a neighborhood that’s full of life and offers a peek into the local culture and lifestyle. So whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this museum promises a memorable experience.