Zagreb-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG)
  • Take a taxi or bus (35-40 kn, ~€5-6) to the city center
  • Check-in at Hotel Esplanade Zagreb (approx. €80 per night) or similar
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Kava Tava (coffee and pastry from 20 kn, ~€3)

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic Ban Jelačić Square, heart of the city
  • Explore the surrounding streets, including Ilica, lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants
  • Stop by the Cathedral of Assumption (free admission) and admire its stunning architecture

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Croatian cuisine at Konoba Didov San (mains from 80 kn, ~€11)
  • Take a stroll along the Upper Town walls for breathtaking views of the city
  • End your day with a drink at The Garden Brewery, offering local craft beers

Things to Know

  • Zagreb is relatively small, and most attractions are within walking distance
  • The city has a rich history, so be prepared to learn about its fascinating past
  • Don’t forget to try some Croatian specialties like paprika (pepper) and čevapi (minced meat sausages)

Day 2: Culture and Art

Morning

  • Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships (entry from 25 kn, ~€3.50), a unique and quirky museum
  • Stop by the Croatian National Theatre (HNK) for a glimpse of its stunning architecture

Afternoon

  • Explore the vibrant street art scene in the Branimir Centre, featuring works by local artists
  • Visit the Zagreb City Museum (entry from 20 kn, ~€2.50), showcasing the city’s history and culture

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Vinodol, offering modern Croatian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients (mains from 100 kn, ~€14)
  • Catch a performance or concert at Močvara, a popular cultural center

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning

  • Take a short tram ride (12 kn, ~€1.50) to the Maksimir Park, featuring beautiful lakes, walking trails, and the Zagreb Zoo
  • Visit the Botanical Garden (entry from 20 kn, ~€2.50), home to over 10,000 plant species

Afternoon

  • Relax at one of the many cafes in the park or take a leisurely stroll
  • Treat yourself to a traditional Croatian pastry at Korica, located near the park

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Bistro Apetit, offering seasonal dishes with a focus on local ingredients (mains from 80 kn, ~€11)
  • Take a romantic evening stroll through the Upper Town

Day 4: Day Trip to Samobor

Morning

  • Take a train (30-40 kn, ~€4-6 return) or bus (20-30 kn, ~€3-5 return) to Samobor, a charming hilltop town
  • Explore the town’s historic center, featuring beautiful Baroque architecture

Afternoon

  • Visit the Samobor Museum (entry from 15 kn, ~€2), showcasing local history and culture
  • Enjoy traditional Croatian cuisine at one of the many local restaurants

Evening

  • Return to Zagreb in the evening and enjoy dinner at La Štruk, offering modern takes on traditional dishes (mains from 100 kn, ~€14)
  • End your day with a drink at The Beertija, featuring an extensive selection of craft beers

Day 5: Markets and Shopping

Morning

  • Visit the bustling Dolac Market, offering fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs
  • Explore the nearby Flower Market, featuring beautiful blooms and plants

Afternoon

  • Shop for souvenirs or local products at Importanne, a unique concept store
  • Relax with a coffee or snack at Caffe Bar Finch, located in a charming courtyard

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Zrno Bio Restaurant, offering organic, farm-to-table cuisine (mains from 120 kn, ~€17)
  • Take a last stroll through the city, reflecting on your amazing experiences in Zagreb

Tips and Essentials

  • Buy a Zagreb Card (90 kn, ~€12) for free admission to many attractions and public transport
  • Use Uber or TaxiCammeo for convenient transportation
  • Don’t forget to try some local currency, the Kuna (HRK)
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with layers and waterproof gear

Transportation

  • Airport: Taxi (150-200 kn, ~€20-25), Bus (35-40 kn, ~€5-6) or Uber
  • Public Transport: Trams and buses (12 kn, ~€1.50 per ride)
  • Walking is the best way to explore the city center

Accommodation

  • Hotel Esplanade Zagreb (approx. €80 per night)
  • Airbnb: Private apartments from €30-60 per night
  • Hostels: Budget-friendly options from €15-30 per night